“IT’S LIKE A FAMILY. ANYONE WILL HELP YOU IF YOU HAVE A QUESTION, AND YOU CAN STAY BEHIND AND ASK TEACHERS ABOUT THINGS YOU ARE STRUGGLING WITH.” KHADIDJA SOULEYMAN, STUDENT
EDUCATION IS SUCCESS We are very proud to have sponsored Westminster Academy since it opened in 2006. This has been a period of steady development with significant improvements in each of these years. It has been very gratifying being alongside a hard working and dedicated team of teachers and staff, and its remarkable leadership. Our aim has been to support their inspiring teaching of the students, who are drawn from so many diverse backgrounds. Westminster Academy has the benefit of a resourceful and effective group of Trustees, with an exceptional Chair, which has maintained an ambitious strategy for excellence. We are committed to continue to build links with outstanding outside organisations that add enriching dimensions to the student experience at the Academy. We know that we need to improve continuously, to ensure that every student feels the benefit of their years of effort at this Academy for the whole of their adult life.
SPONSOR David Dangoor CBE, The Exilarch’s Foundation
The aim of Westminster Academy has always been to make this a centre of educational excellence and an amenity open to all of the community. We are proud to be located in one of the most diverse communities in Central London and it remains the express intent of the Dangoor Family, our sponsors, to meet the needs of local students, parents and residents. To fulfil our aims, we have various initiatives and facilities, including Academy Sport and Academy Community, which provide opportunities to all the community to use the Academy building and facilities. We hope that if you are a resident in Westminster, and in particular in the Westbourne area, you will share our pride and feel that the Academy is there for you. May I welcome the community to engage with the school, its Principal and teachers; for our part the Board of Trustees will continue to build upon the reputation and the community outreach plans of the Academy.
CHAIR OF TRUSTEES Shabir Randeree CBE
IT WAS WITH GREAT PRIDE THAT I BECAME WESTMINSTER ACADEMY PRINCIPAL AND CEO IN JANUARY 2021. I HAVE ENJOYED LEARNING THROUGHOUT MY LIFE AND EDUCATION HAS GIVEN ME WONDERFUL CHOICES THAT WOULD NOT OTHERWISE HAVE EXISTED. THAT IS WHY I RELATE SO PERSONALLY TO OUR WESTMINSTER ACADEMY MISSION – “EDUCATION IS SUCCESS”.
At Westminster Academy we achieve our mission in a number of ways. Fostering positive relationships between teachers, support staff members, school leaders, parents and carers is vital for student success, and allows us to provide a supportive, inclusive environment in which students develop as confident young adults.
Our ethos is underpinned by the IB Learner Profile; the Academy aims to develop students who can listen to one another, collaborate and embrace challenges as Inquirers, Thinkers, Communicators and Risk-takers; students with a growth mindset and an international perspective, who are Knowledgeable, Principled, Caring, Open-minded, Balanced, and Reflective. We are the only non fee-paying school in London to offer the International Baccalaureate’s Diploma and Career-related Programmes. These worldrenowned qualifications have their own mission to develop ‘caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding’. This goes hand in hand with our values as an Academy. “Success” takes many forms. Our passionate teaching body takes pride in finding the best possible ways to facilitate learning and to help individual students define their own success. Classroom learning and assessment is enhanced by our 1:1 device programme and students’ access to a wide range of online learning platforms.
WA students can also experience personal success at school and we encourage all students to seek opportunities outside the classroom that will feed their curiosity and allow them to discover and develop individual passions. WA students value the exceptional opportunities they are offered: an exciting extracurricular programme, hundreds of educational visits and internal events taking place each year, residential outdoors education opportunities and an outstanding careers programme. Ultimately, our success is determined by what our students take with them when they leave, not only in terms of academic outcomes and post-18 choices, but also the impact Westminster Academy students can make on the world by personifying our WA values and ethos. I hope you enjoy finding out more about us.
PRINCIPAL AND CEO Dr Paul Wood
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LEARNING at Westminster Academy Great emphasis is placed on the skills of literacy and numeracy to ensure every student can access challenging curriculum content, and students are urged to take every opportunity available to enhance their learning. Westminster Academy encourages collaboration and creativity, recognising and building on each student’s talents and entrepreneurial spirit. We focus on developing students’ character as well as their intellect, with an emphasis on the importance of a Growth Mindset and the IB Learner Profile attributes. Independent learning is an essential part of this because it gives the student individual time to reflect, memorise and review. We prepare students for the world of work, but also to have high personal standards and ambition, seeking opportunities for higher education and lifelong learning.
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The Academy has a team of specialised staff to support individuals’ learning needs. Each student attends a one-to-one meeting with their personal tutor once a term. The personal qualities, skills, interests and needs of each student is at the forefront as we develop both their targets and their individual programmes of learning. Forwardthinking assessment methods and data tracking also allow us to personalise learning and ensure that students and their families are fully involved in their progress. Lessons are differentiated to offer the appropriate level of support and challenge to individual learners. Each child who has been identified as having special educational needs has an action plan drawn up which is continually monitored. Through our business, community and higher education links, Westminster Academy students receive unparalleled opportunities to advance their careers and ambitions. An engaging extra-curricular programme enables all students to complement their learning with a range of clubs, educational visits and events. Our myriad partnerships with organisations such as the Royal Society of Medicine, Imperial College Reach Out Lab and Oxnet encourage students to deepen their knowledge and pursue areas of interest.
OVER
70
%
OF STUDENTS CONSISTENTLY ACHIEVE
GRADES 9- 4 IN CORE SUBJECTS
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“STUDENTS FROM A WIDE RANGE OF BACKGROUNDS AND CULTURES GET ON WELL WITH EACH OTHER AND STAFF.” OFSTED
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ATTITUDES
to Learning
AT THE ACADEMY, WE INSTIL HIGH EXPECTATIONS AND STANDARDS OF BEHAVIOUR, ETIQUETTE AND GOOD MANNERS.
The Academy reinforces, recognises and rewards the behaviour we expect from all students. Students are rewarded for good behaviour, effort and achievement, and they collect certificates and awards in addition to attending reward trips if they meet certain predetermined criteria. All incidents of outstanding or unacceptable behaviour are logged and communicated to parents and carers so that parents and carers are involved in promoting our HERO values.
Our code of conduct is based on HERO values:
HONESTY ENTERPRISE RESPONSIBILITY OPPORTUNITY
“IN ALL LESSONS THE LEVEL OF CHALLENGE IS HIGH.” OFSTED
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CURRICULUM Key Stage 3 Students follow the National Curriculum and are taught and assessed on the following areas:
ENGLISH MATHEMATICS COMPUTING SCIENCE HUMANITIES: History, Geography, Religious Studies
and Global Citizenship
LANGUAGES: Spanish, French, German or Arabic EXPRESSIVE ARTS: Food, Dance, Drama, Music and Art PHYSICAL EDUCATION
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Westminster Academy’s ethos is built around the studentcentred and internationally-minded values of the International Baccalaureate. Students enjoy curriculum journeys rich in breadth, depth and challenge, meaning that subjects and disciplines are valued at all stages and students maintain a broad curriculum all the way from Year 7 to 13. At Key Stage 3, in addition to the core subject areas, we teach a Global Citizenship curriculum, to ensure students have an awareness of their rights and responsibilities and understand how they can contribute as a global citizen. We are also committed to delivering a broad curriculum offer for the arts and allocate one fifth of lesson time to these subjects in Years 7 and 8. Personal, Social and Health Education is integrated, rather than being taught as separate lessons. Extra-curricular activities are also a core part of WA life. Through the extra-curricular programme, students have the opportunity to network, learn new skills, pursue further study of a favourite subject, or join a sports team.
Key Stage 4 Courses follow the National Curriculum and include:
ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND ENGLISH LITERATURE MATHEMATICS COMPUTER SCIENCE COMBINED SCIENCE OR TRIPLE SCIENCE HUMANITIES: Geography, History, Citizenship, Religious Education,
Business, Travel and Tourism, Digital Information Technology
LANGUAGES: Spanish, French, German, Arabic EXPRESSIVE ARTS: Drama, Dance, Music, Art, Food and Nutrition, Media
The development of subject specific skills and knowledge through our seven year curricula prepares students for undergraduate courses at the world’s best universities, vocational study and rewarding careers. Students work to develop their thinking, social, communication, self-management and research skills through teaching and learning activities which focus on conceptual development, relevance, collaboration, differentiation and student-driven inquiry. The curriculum at Key Stage 4 is personalised to suit the needs, interests and career pathways of individual students, providing a broad range of GCSE and BTEC course choices. All students are offered work-related learning experiences, including work experience at local, national and international businesses. The data tracking in place enables the Academy to provide the best possible support for students, with personalised interventions to ensure students achieve their academic potential.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
PRIDE IN INCLUSION
BRONZE AWARD RECIPIENTS
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THE SIXTH FORM at Westminster Academy
OUR HIGH-ACHIEVING SIXTH FORM IS AN EXCITING STAGE OF THE WESTMINSTER ACADEMY JOURNEY.
WA IBDP STUDENTS CONSISTENTLY ACHIEVE
ABOVE THE WORLD AVERAGE
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We offer a wide range of courses and every student in Year 11 who meets our entry requirements receives an offer to study with us. Our supportive and highly knowledgeable team works closely with students to ensure they are on track to achieve their future goals. Diverse extra-curricular opportunities through our business and community links provide unique experiences to contribute to personal statements and CVs.
Westminster Academy was one of the first schools in the world to offer the International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP). IBCP students study a vocational qualification in subjects such as Business, Creative Media, Applied Science or ICT, while also completing at least two IB certificates. It is a fantastic choice for students who prefer a balanced mixture of academic and vocational study.
As an IB World School, we are one of a select group of state schools offering the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). The IB is known around the world for its academic rigour and for developing independent, critical thinkers. Students study a broader range of subjects than the traditional Key Stage 5 pathways; it is a challenging programme, but each year we are proud to see our IB Diploma graduates leave WA as mature, resilient, knowledgeable and principled individuals, well prepared for the challenges of studying at university and beyond.
Unique to the IB programmes is the IB Core. Through components involving volunteering, critical thinking and reflective projects, the IB Core allows students to develop skills and experience beyond their academic qualifications, which is very much a defining feature of the ethos of Westminster Academy. For more information, please see our website.
100
%
OF SIXTH FORM GRADUATES GAIN
UNIVERSITY OFFERS
9
400
OVER
EDUCATIONAL VISITS, EVENTS & ENRICHMENT OPPORTUNITIES TAKE PLACE EVERY YEAR
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Extra-curricular
OPPORTUNITIES WESTMINSTER ACADEMY OFFERS AN EXTENSIVE VARIETY OF EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES AS PART OF THE EXTENDED SCHOOL DAY. Our clubs and activities help students to make friends, learn independently, consolidate learning and increase confidence.
Sport
Academic Clubs
Our first-class sporting facilities allow the school to offer a variety of sports at lunchtimes and after school. Activities vary each season, but include popular traditional sports such as football, table tennis and rugby, as well as clubs such as ‘Girls Allowed’ and ‘Nike Training’. Our collaboration with Greenhouse Sports gives students access to specialised basketball coaching and mentoring.
Our numerous academic clubs are available to all students, whether they are looking for help with their homework or to challenge themselves. Our departments – English, Maths, Science, Humanities, Expressive Arts and Languages – run clubs for all year groups and there are lots of other groups, like Debate Mate, Scrabble, Coding and STEM Club to ensure there is something for everyone.
Expressive Arts
Participating in clubs leads to further opportunities, such as local and national competitions, educational visits, events and, in some cases, additional qualifications.
Expressive arts enthusiasts enjoy working together to improve their skills and develop talent in Dance, Music, Drama, Food and Art. Students are offered the opportunity to join a variety of expressive arts clubs such as food club, choir, ballet, drumming, film club and the WA musical. A range of inspiring visits take place throughout the year to further explore and nurture students’ creative talents.
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FIRST SECONDARY SCHOOL IN WESTMINSTER TO BE
AWARDED HEALTHY SCHOOLS GOLD
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Student
“WESTMINSTER ACADEMY: IT’S HARDWORKING; IT’S MOTIVATED; IT’S DETERMINED.”” LABINOT KRASINIQI, WA ALUMNUS
LEADERSHIP WA ENCOURAGES STUDENTS TO TAKE ON RESPONSIBILITY BY OFFERING A VARIETY OF WAYS STUDENTS CAN GET INVOLVED WITH THE SCHOOL AND DEVELOP AS YOUNG LEADERS.
Our Sixth Form Prefect Team is led by our Head Prefects, with each member of the team taking on responsibilities in areas of Academy life, such as sustainability, student liaison and Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS). Students from all year groups are also elected to the Academy Council each year. The Council meets with the Senior Leadership Team regularly to provide personal insights into the student experience and to explore possible ways of improving it. Key Stage 3 students have the opportunity to become WA Ambassadors. The Ambassador team supports the Principal in greeting visitors to the school, conducting tours and telling them all about Westminster Academy. Year 8 students participate in Student Services, where they spend a day on ‘work experience’, helping with the administration of the school and learning what it is like to work in a large organisation.
We also provide great opportunities for students to develop their leadership outside the school. The nationally recognised Duke of Edinburgh’s Award programme offers students the chance to gain their Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards. Students develop their leadership, independence, teamwork and confidence by completing a challenging expedition in the countryside over two or three days. The programme also encourages students to develop as all-rounders, by getting students involved in volunteering, skill-based and physical activities as part of the Award. The Royal Air Force Combined Cadet Force is another exciting opportunity at Westminster Academy for students to be trained in military drill and presentation, aerospace engineering, field craft and soldiering. It is a popular programme at Westminster Academy, and gives students a sense of pride, duty, camaraderie, determination and discipline that they will carry with them throughout their time in the cadets and beyond.
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PARENTS and
CARERS Parents and carers are encouraged to be in regular communication with their child’s personal tutors and involve themselves in their child’s learning through Progress Review Days and Parents’ Evenings, as well as through our online platforms which enable them to view up-to-date information such as reports, attendance and achievement points. The weekly Academy newsletter also keeps parents and carers informed of all events. Westminster Academy’s Parent Council is a core part of the Academy, allowing parents and carers to contribute to developments at the school and organise events, such as our International Afternoon. Many parents and carers also enjoy taking up our adult English language lessons.
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Businesses and Community
PARTNERSHIPS
WESTMINSTER ACADEMY IS A BUSINESS AND ENTERPRISE SPECIALIST SCHOOL.
WE HAVE A NUMBER OF LINKS WITH BUSINESSES, THE COMMUNITY AND HIGHER EDUCATION, INCLUDING:
THE ROYAL SOCIETY OF MEDICINE BRITISH LAND MARKS AND SPENCER CITIBANK IMPERIAL COLLEGE THE LONDON CENTRE FOR LANGUAGES AND CULTURE STEM LEARNING
Our aim is to prepare young people for their future pathways and to succeed in a global society, meeting the needs of employers and contributing to wider plans for job creation and economic prosperity. Work experience, insight days and opportunities with our business partners provide critical experience, preparing students for success in further and higher education, as well as employment. Our business partnerships focus on providing entrepreneurial experiences for all our students. Links with such organisations as British Land, Marks and Spencer, Crossrail, Bain, The Serpentine Gallery, HSBC and Mosaic provide an array of opportunities for students to work closely with highly successful business people, including mentoring programmes and skills workshops. Community and higher education links – including Imperial College, the London Centre for Languages and Culture, and Oxnet – provide further opportunities for students to broaden experiences, gain new perspectives and an insight into higher level research and study.
Work experience programme All students complete a two-week work experience programme during Year 10. Placements have included local and international organisations such as dental surgeries, solicitor’s offices, art galleries, architecture firms, primary schools, global banks and hotels. The work experience programme allows students to experience first-hand the world of work, enabling them to develop personal and social skills in a work context.
“THE ACADEMY USES ITS LINKS AND CENTRAL LONDON LOCATION TO PROVIDE STUDENTS WITH AN OUTSTANDING RANGE OF EXTRA-CURRICULAR SUPPORT TO RAISE THEIR SELF-ESTEEM AND ASPIRATIONS.” OFSTED
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Our
COMMUNITY OUR STUDENTS’ FAMILIES SPEAK OVER 60 LANGUAGES SO IT IS FITTING THAT AS AN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL, WE CELEBRATE THE COUNTRIES, CULTURES AND FAITHS WHICH OUR STUDENTS REPRESENT. GLOBAL AWARENESS AND ACCEPTANCE ARE THREADS WHICH RUN THROUGH ALL OUR WORK. Being an active part of the community is at the heart of Westminster Academy. All WA students participate in Active Citizenship during their time at the Academy, from Year 7 through to IB. Students engage in diverse volunteering opportunities both in school and in the community, and particularly enjoy fundraising. The Academy works closely with Westminster City Council and its schools and colleges. Joint projects with our link primary schools give young members of the community access to our facilities and clubs as well as enabling secondary school taster days, CPD sessions for staff and curriculum support from subject specialists. Westminster Academy works with representatives from housing, social and youth services, the health service, the police and voluntary organisations together in a joined-up strategic approach to improving people’s lives in Westbourne.
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The Westbourne Forum and Paddington Development Trust have been key to the coordination of these improvements, through the community plan. The Academy has a state-of-the-art building designed by award winning architects Allford Hall Monaghan Morris (AHMM). The Academy’s facilities are available to the local community and we have widely consulted with community groups to ensure our building meets their needs and aspirations. Facilities of our main building are also available for hire for meetings, conferences, training and social events outside school hours.
The site is extensive for a city school and includes: • A flexible working environment, enabling our focus on personalised learning • Laboratories and workshops; IT, music and media suites; food room • Top floor ‘Sky Dining’ area and ground floor ‘Global Cafe’, with in-house catering • Library • Drama studio • Lecture theatre with cinema-style seating • Five professional-grade sports pitches • A community sports centre with a large sports hall and a dance studio • The world’s first managed outdoor Parkour facility • Beach volleyball court
Preparing for Future
CAREERS
WE OFFER CAREERS EDUCATION, INDEPENDENT ADVICE AND GUIDANCE FOR ALL STUDENTS AGED 11–18.
First and foremost, all students have a personal tutor who they can go to for advice and guidance at any time. Each student is given access to an online, interactive careers service and we equip them with the research skills to access diverse information and make informed decisions. Specialist interviews are arranged for students to prepare them to move on to sixth form and university or an apprenticeship. Students receive regular visits from our wide range of partnerships with internationally renowned companies. These opportunities enhance academic qualifications and prepare students with the skills and knowledge to go on to successful and fulfilling educational pathways and careers.
Advice and guidance is provided on areas such as: • Links between living, learning and earning • What students can do to improve their own chances of success • How and where to get information, and how to judge its value and trustworthiness • Possible further education options such as Sixth Form, apprenticeships and university
“WA IS A VERY WELCOMING PLACE WITH A FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENT; WE HAVE A VERY GOOD EDUCATION HERE. AND IF YOU FEEL THE NEED TO TALK TO SOMEBODY, THE TEACHERS ARE ALWAYS THERE FOR YOU TO TALK TO.” MARYAM EL-IMLAHI, STUDENT
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Sir Naim Dangoor Centre 255 Harrow Road London W2 5EZ T: 020 7121 0600 Email: admin@westminsteracademy.org.uk www.westminsteracademy.org.uk @WestminsterAca