11-16 FAQ

Hours

The day begins at 8:30am and finishes at 3:40pm for junior pupils on most days while senior pupils remain in vocational studies until 5:30pm.

Food

Breakfast is available in the refectory from 8:00am. Snacks are served in the twenty minute mid-morning break. At lunchtime there is a choice of hot dishes including a vegetarian option, sandwiches and fresh salads.

Monitoring progress

The form tutors are responsible for the day–to–day care of the pupils and are the first point of contact for any concerned parents. Pupils may refer to their tutors for guidance.

Homework

Homework provides an opportunity for independent study and helps to reinforce the day’s learning. Homework timetables are given out at the beginning of the year and the staff ask for parents’ co–operation in ensuring that homework is completed in a calm, orderly environment.

Visits and trips

It is the School’s policy to enrich classroom and studio activities with outside experiences. A full programme of educational outings is arranged, including visits to theatres, concerts, museums and galleries. In addition, we occasionally hold a “weekend away” for Key Stage 3 pupils in which they engage in a range of diverse activities, learning to work together whilst also learning a great deal about themselves and each other. These weekends serve as an extremely useful “bonding exercise”.

Parents

Parents are invited regularly to consultation evenings to discuss pupils’ progress with academic and pastoral tutors. Parents are encouraged to accompany classes on educational visits and become involved in the various social and performance events at the school. The School Record Book constitutes a permanent liaison between school and parents. Regular grade sheets are issued and comprehensive written reports are completed for all pupils.

Post 16

The school’s aim is to produce responsible young people who are aware of, and fully equipped to select from the range of options available to them at Post–16 level. In Year 11, each pupil is assigned a mentor who provides advice on course selection, guidance on the application process and assistance in preparing for interview. Year 11 pupils wishing to enter our Sixth Form will participate in the sixth form audition process alongside applicants from outside. Entry to the Sixth Form is via a combination of audition, interview and academic tests