Organisation
Social OrganisationPupils are encouraged to think of the school as a second 'home', an extension of family life. School uniform is an outward sign and a daily reminder that all belong together. Discipline is based on this principle, with firm, consistent and simple rules. Like good parents, staff have a genuine affection for pupils but are 'tough' in expecting hard work, good manners, respect and consideration for others.
The school 'family' naturally divides into year groups. Each year group has a Year Tutor responsible for the pastoral care of the pupils. Year groups are subdivided into tutor groups, each comprising a teacher/tutor and between 15 (Years 7-9) and 25 (Years 10-13) pupils.
The tutor arranges regular interviews with each pupil to discuss and review progress and to set targets for future achievement. Progress is also discussed with parents and at these meetings, targets are set for the pupil, parents and school. High achievement is a result of this partnership.
Teachers work in teams, supporting, helping and encouraging one another. Each team has aims and targets to direct and test the quality of its work. Team Leaders meet regularly to organise and review the whole academic programme, with a view to raising pupils' standards of achievement.
Other teams meet to develop our pastoral care systems, to organise training so that staff can keep up to date and improve their teaching skills, to discuss literacy, numeracy, ICT and other important issues affecting the education we offer our pupils.
Our support teams, Learning Support and Behaviour Support, enable pupils with special educational needs, English as an additional language and those experiencing difficulties in the classroom to receive specialist help and support. Pupils who are identified as 'Gifted and Talented' also receive additional help, support and guidance and are encouraged to engage in additional activities organised by the school. Learning mentors are available to any pupil in the school.