Education Plus 13 Sept 2016 by WDPissuu

Education TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2016

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Schools shoot for the stars

2 EDUCATION GUIDE 2016 TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 13 2016 WESTERN DAILY PRESS

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EDUCATIONPLUS INDEX ■ EDUCATION CHANGES: ARE GRAMMAR SCHOOLS COMING BACK? PAGE 4

■ FAMILIES WILLING TO MOVE HOUSE FOR BEST SCHOOLS PAGE 6

■ MUM HOLLY THATCHER ON FIRST DAY AT SCHOOL NERVES PAGE 8

■ MEET THE HEADS

PAGE S 10-15

ONCE BOTTOM OF THE LADDER, THERE was a time when Bristol was the whipping boy of the education world – languishing in the bottom rung of the education ladder and struggling to make headway. These days, it’s a different picture. In this education supplement, we are looking at all the facets of going to school in Bristol. It will cover a wide variety of topics – from the cost of going to school, the price of living close to a popular one, the recent results and the most important news from the independent sector.

Michael Yong Education reporter michael.yong@b-nm.co.uk

DUCATION in Bristol has changed. While it is difficult to pinpoint the exact reasons behind the huge improvement in standards, there are various explanations why we are seeing the best set of results – both in exams and Ofsted inspections – in the last few years. Despite more regimented and stricter Ofsted inspections, schools in Bristol continue to do well. An analysis of all the inspections – both for the primary and secondary school sector – places Bristol in the top 20 places where children are likely to go to a Good or Outstanding school. Topping that list is the City of London – with 100 per cent of pupils going to a top-rated school. It is hardly any surprise, given the level of funding and investment by the Government. Most of the top 20 are boroughs in Greater London, with a few exceptions.

Some 95.1 per cent of pupils in Bath and North East Somerset (BANES) go to a Good or Outstanding school, placing it in 14th spot. North Somerset, with its high-flying schools, also come in at 18th, with 94.5 per cent of all pupils in a Good or better school. Bristol sits in 20th position. Of its 51,480 pupils in 116 schools, 94.4 per cent are in Good or Outstanding schools. A majority of that – 63.1 per cent – are in the Good category, and the challenge is to see those schools take another step into the Outstanding group. South Gloucestershire comes in at 138th, with 78.8 per cent of pupils in Good or better Ofsted rated schools. This year’s set of GCSE and A level results, although provisional, looks to be an improvement on the previous years’. A huge part of the success of schools in recent years is down to the change in leadership across the academies. Head teachers are important. They set the standards and ambitions for staff and pupils, and make the final call on most decisions around the academy.

ANNUAL DASH FOR PRIMARY SCHOOL PLACES

T MARKING CHANGES WELCOMED

A GET IN TOUCH Michael Yong Education reporter michael.yong@b-nm.co.uk

Holly Thatcher Commercial writer posttnews@b-nm.co.uk

■ To advertise in upcoming education supplements call Marc England on 0117 934 3428 or email marc.england@localworld.co.uk

FTER a mixed reaction to the initial proposal head teachers have welcomed changes to the new GCSE grading system that will ensure it is as “fair” as the previous set up. It was recently announced that from 2017 grades would change from letters, A* to G, to numbers, 1 to 9, for English language, English literature and maths. Last week, exam regulator Ofqual confirmed that the grade 9 would be awarded to the top 20 per cent of grades at 7 or above in each subject. This will mean the grade 8 boundary will be equally spaced between grades 7 and 9. Dr William Richardson, general secretary of the Headmasters’ and Headmistresses’ Conference (HMC,) said: “Ensuring the new top grades at GCSE will be fairly awarded to pupils taking the full range of subjects next summer has been a complex problem. This solution is a good example of well-focused research and listening to school-based experts. It should mean that pupils can confidently expect the new grading to be as fair as the previous system across all subjects when it comes to awarding top marks.” He added that, as the boundary for grade 9 will be set above the old A* grade, this should encourage universities and employers to “avoid unnecessary additional pressure being placed on students as a result of the new structure”.

HOUSANDS of parents are set to put in their applications for primary and secondary school places in the West over the next few months. Applications for Bristol schools opened yesterday, with some of the most popular schools already being put down as the first choice for many parents. Children born between September 1, 2012 and August 31, 2013 are set to start in reception year in 2017, while secondary school admissions are open for pupils born between 1 September 2005 and August 31, 2006. Guides to schools in the city have already been sent out to parents, together with comprehensive information about each school. The closing date for secondary school admission applications is October 31, and all applications for a reception school place should be with the council by January 15, 2017. School places have become a key issue in the city, with the council already looking to create some 10,000 primary school places. That includes opening new primary schools and expanding current ones. The improvement in education in the city, coupled with a growing population, means there is a huge demand for a reception place. Unfortunately more than 750 children missed out on their first choice primary school this year, and more than 250 missed out on any of their three preferences. And even though that’s an improvement on last year, it is still the lowest rate in the South West. Next year, more reception places are set to be made available in some of the

most popular schools. Bridge Learning Campus (Primary) will admit 90 children, an increase of 30. Bannerman Road Community Academy and Children’s Centre has 60 places, up from 45, while Cathedral Primary School – one of the most popular in Bristol – will admit up to 50 pupils. That is a increase of 20 places compared to this year. Even though most schools are now becoming academies and are essentially self run and governed, the admissions process is still overseen by the city council. That increase in demand for primary school places is set to translate into a rise for secondary school places, especially with the improvement in secondary school education. Ten years ago, families were moving out of Bristol to go to good schools. But that has now been reversed, with families looking to move into the city just to go to good schools. The newest schools in Bristol – Redland Green and Bristol Free School – both achieved good grades at this year’s GCSEs. The latter will be admitting 190 children next September, an increase of 40 places. Oasis Academy Brightstowe will also be taking on more pupils, with 189 given places, a rise of 29 desks. Oasis Academy John Williams, which had record grades this year, will make 18 more spots available, meaning they can take 180 pupils into Year Seven. One of the most popular schools in Bristol, Redland Green, will be able to provide 27 more desks.

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WESTERN DAILY PRESS TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 13 2016 EDUCATION GUIDE 2016 3

INTRODUCTION

THRIVING BRISTOL AIMS FOR THE TOP

■ Some of the head teachers, education leaders and chairs of governors who were honoured for their outstanding contributions to learning in Bristol earlier this year Tom Winskill, senior inspector with Ofsted, said the improvement in Bristol was down to hard work and a change in leadership in schools.

He said: “There has been a steady improvement in schools in Bristol over the last two or three years. “The improvement has been quite dramatic and it’s great to see so

many pupils at good or better schools. “There is good leadership in schools in Bristol, which leads to good teaching, and an increase in the number of schools working together. “I'm glad to see Bristol doing really well. It was not long ago it was quite down in the dumps.” Paul Jacobs, education lead at Bristol City Council, is not one to rest on his laurels. He said: “Bristol is a learning city, and there is a real sense that education is valued in this city. We saw a change in leadership, and that leads to good teachers being employed at schools. “People now want to come to the city to be teachers, which is very different from a while ago. “But I want to keep improving. There has been a huge investment into our school buildings and we have to keep looking to do better.” With the right support from the local education authority, Government and joint up working among schools, parents and pupils, Bristol might soon be pushing even higher – and that is great news for this city.

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4 EDUCATION GUIDE 2016 TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 13 2016 WESTERN DAILY PRESS

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EDUCATIONPLUS THE BIG DEBATE

RETURN OF THE GRAMMAR SCHOOL There could be more change on the way to our school system, with new grammar schools on the way. Education reporter Michael Yong weighs up the pros and cons

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OULD the West be getting a new wave of grammar schools? Prime Minister Theresa May has announced she is lifting the ban on expanding and creating new grammar schools in a bid to improve social mobility. Many argue it will do the exact opposite and only those who can achieve – or are rich enough for private tuition – can go to grammar schools. But Mrs May has also introduced new measures to ensure these new selective schools play their part educating disadvantaged pupils. Professor Simon Burgess, from Bristol University, does not believe a grammar school will be good news for the city. There are already levels of inequality among schools in Bristol – with some having high numbers of children from disadvantaged backgrounds, while others having a lot fewer. Prof Burgess, who has been doing research on schools and economic impact for more than 10 years, said: “Our research and other reports show that grammar schools increase inequality and do nothing for social mobility. It will be a retrospective step, definitely a step backwards, and not beneficial to children. The average number of disadvantaged children in grammar schools is about three percent, which is well short of the national average of around 20 per cent. “I cannot support or see the reasons for grammar schools. We should not be going back to that system.” But Mrs May’s new measures might be good news for disadvantaged families who are struggling to get into good schools despite being bright and meeting grades. The PM argued there is already a selection policy – one based on house prices near good or outstanding schools. In Bristol, buying a house near one of those schools could cost you £80,000 more. Mrs May’s new measures mean new or expanding grammars will need to take in a proportion of pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds. At the moment, grammars only take about three per cent of free-school meal pupils, on average. These grammars will also need to establish

“ Our research and other reports show grammar schools increase inequality and do nothing for social mobility. It will be a retrospective step, definitely a step backwards.” Professor Simon Burgess, University of Bristol a new, non-selective free school in the area, and sponsor a primary feeder school with a high-density of disadvantaged children. An underperforming comprehensive will also need to be sponsored by the new grammar. Rod MacKinnon, head teacher at Bristol Grammar School – which turned independent in 1975 – believes new grammar schools could help disadvantaged communities. He said: “I will be surprised if selective schools were going to become a common thing nationally. “I can imagine in the current circumstances where one is trying to change the opportunities within a community, they might go down this route. “It is an interesting option [opening a new grammar] but we don’t want the same block system for every school. It doesn’t work that way.I don’t see this as the beginning of a return to the 1950s or 60s but there are some communities where we could use the introduction of grammar schools as a way of changing the game plan. “Don’t get me wrong – we have got some great comprehensive schools here. “ He said there is already a selection system within the comprehensive schools system – one of moving into expensive catchment areas of good schools. There is also more to doing well at the 11-plus than private tuition, Mr Mackinnon added, saying things like parental support are also important.

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WESTERN DAILY PRESS TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 13 2016 EDUCATION GUIDE 2016 5

Nu se y to unive sity

Clifton College provides inspirational teaching, diverse and targeted co-curricular activities, exceptional pastoral care and excellent facilities. Open Day on 24th September (for ages 2-13) or 8th October (for ages 13-18). To book a place call our Admissions Team on 0117 405 8417. For more information visit www.cliftoncollege.com

6 EDUCATION GUIDE 2016 TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 13 2016 WESTERN DAILY PRESS

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EDUCATIONPLUS

FIFTH OF FAMILIES HAVE MOVED HOME Michael Yong Education reporter michael.yong@b-nm.co.uk

FIFTH of families in Bristol have moved house just to get their child into their desired school, a new survey has found. Around 20 per cent of families with children of a school age have either bought or rented a new property in order to have an address within their preferred school catchment area, according to Santander Mortgages. The study also found that parents would typically be prepared to spend an 11 per cent premium, equating to £23,707 based on average house prices, to be near the school they want their child to attend. Parents in London were the most likely to have moved in order to secure an address in their preferred school catchment area, with 46 per cent of parents with children aged between eight and 18 years old in this area saying they had done so. Those in the East Midlands were the least likely, with just 11 per cent

having done so. Nearly a quarter (24 per cent) of families in Scotland, 17 per cent in Wales and 15 per cent in Northern Ireland had moved to be near their desired school, the research found. A separate study released this week by Lloyds Bank found that parents in England face paying a premium of £53,000 on average to live near one of the country’s top-performing state schools. Santander found that as well as having to fork out more money for a house, 17 per cent of parents who had moved to be in a sought-after catchment area had also changed jobs as a result. A fifth (20 per cent) who had moved ended up in a smaller property than the one they lived in before and 21 per cent had moved away from family and friends. And 22 per cent of those who had made such a move admitted they had overstretched themselves financially, paying more for the property than they could comfortably afford to. Miguel Sard, managing director of mortgages at Santander, said: “With competition for school places re-

STATE-OF-THE-ART SCHOOL MUST SET HIGH STANDARDS

OPEN DAY

B E PA RT O F T H E I N S P I R AT I O N

Friday 30th September —1O am arrival Please contact us to reserve your place

Little visitors are welcome to join all the fun of a Forest School session—for over 3s—starting 9.30 am

Co-educational day & boarding: ages 2–13 > telephone: O1823 285921 admissions@kingshalltaunton.co.uk > www.kingshalltaunton.co.uk A Woodard School

NEW school for more than 1,200 pupils is set to open in the Temple Enterprise Zone, serving the community in the centre of the city. Formed as part of the council’s £35 million plan to ensure there is a secondary school place for every child, it will be run by the national education trust, Oasis Community Lear ning. Oasis already has various schools in Bristol, and is the second-largest Multi-Academy Trust (MAT) in Bristol, just behind Cabot Learning Federation. There was a flurry of bids to run the new school, which is expected to be state-of-the-art and over subscribed. The co-ed, eight-form entry school is set to be completed by September 2018, although it’s still unsure how recent developments with the Enterprise Zone might affect that timetable. School places have become a real issue for Bristol City Council. Improving standards and increasing population mean there is a high demand for a spot in one of the popular schools. As we know, most of the pressure is in the central areas of Bristol – Ashley, Easton, Lawrence Hill, Bishopston, Cotham, Redland, Cabot and Clifton. Oasis already runs eight schools here, and was recently criticised by education regulator Ofsted. One redeeming factor for the academy chain is that none of its schools in Bristol were part of that widespread inspection, and their academies here have generally done well.

The challenge for Oasis will be to ensure they can continue the high standards set in Bristol. Ten years ago, education in this city was in dire straits, but it has pulled up its socks. More than 90 per cent of secondaries are now rated Good or Outstanding by Ofsted. Strong leadership was key to seeing that improvement. A huge number of head teachers who were leading under-performing schools have now gone, and the new group are ambitious and set high standards. While there is friendly competition between the academies, most choose to work with each other to ensure the best practice throughout. It is this ethos that the new school will need to feed into. It cannot afford to be in isolation, and whoever heads it needs to have the strength of character and ambition to see its students do well. It is absolutely crucial and it’ll be beneficial to everyone that this new school is a success.

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WESTERN DAILY PRESS TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 13 2016 EDUCATION GUIDE 2016 7

HOUSEPRICES

TO GET KIDS INTO A BETTER SCHOOL PERCENTAGE OF FAMILIES WHO HAVE MOVED HOME TO GET THEIR KIDS INTO BETTER SCHOOLS

“ Parents are making

significant financial and lifestyle sacrifices to be within the catchment area of desirable schools.”

■ North East, 29% ■ North West, 20%

Miguel Sard ■ Left, Cranbrook Road in Redland – houses in the area often go for a premium because it’s in the Redland Green catchment area

■ orkshire and Humber, 28% ■ East Midlands, 11%

maining high, parents are making significant financial and lifestyle sacrifices to be within the catchment area of desirable schools. “Living within a certain school catchment area is a priority for many families but these premium addresses can come with a hefty price tag.” More than 4,000 people from across the UK took part in the survey. The panel on right shows the proportions of parents with children of a school age who have moved house in order to secure an address in their preferred school catchment area, according to Santander Mortgages.

■ West Midlands, 33% ■ East of England, 17% ■ London, 46% ■ South East, 24% ■ South West, 20% ■ Wales, 17% ■ Scotland, 24%

OPEN DAY

■ The enterprise zone; Right, the masterplan for the area; Left, Bristol Mayor Marvin Rees at Oasis Academy John Williams; Above. The Oasis chain will run the new school

B E PA RT O F T H E I N S P I R AT I O N

Saturday 1st October —1O am arrival Please contact us to reserve your place

Co-educational day & boarding: ages 13–18 > telephone: O1823 3282O4 admissions@kings-taunton.co.uk > www.kings-taunton.co.uk A Woodard School

8 EDUCATION GUIDE 2016 TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 13 2016 WESTERN DAILY PRESS

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EDUCATIONPLUS “...excellence in all it does within and beyond the classroom...” ISI Inspection Report, October 2015

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Learning

Life changing

Sending your child to school can be costly, as Holly Thatcher finds out

shows that parents in the South West fork out an average of £14,505 over the course of each child's school career. Of course, it could be worse: astoundingly, that figure is actually the second-lowest total for any region in the country, far behind London, where the estimated cost is £21,298. In a survey of more than 2000 parents, it was found that having a child in primary school will set you back an eye-watering £1,791.32 per school year – while for secondary school pupils, the overall cost rises to an average of £1,915.58 for children in years 7 and 8, or £1,855.35 for those in the next three academic years. Compared to the cost of sending a child to nursery full time – an average of £212 per week - many working parents breathe a huge sigh of relief at the relative saving when their child starts school. And if you are savvy about it, there are ways you can save money. Nowadays supermarkets engage in an annual price war to offer the best value uniform – with discount chain Aldi offering a complete school uniform last year for only £4.

S I waved my four-year-old son off to school for the first time this week, like many of my fellow parents I had a tear in my eye. After all, it’s an emotional moment seeing your baby in their school uniform for the first time. But partly, I felt teary thinking about my seriously depleted bank balance. Kitting your child – or in my case, children – for school doesn’t come cheap, and the expenses don’t remotely stop once the uniform is purchased. There are the lunches, stationery, transport costs, school trips, swimming lessons and – if you are a working parent like me – ‘wrap around’ childcare to fork out for. Not to mention that nasty habit children have of growing out of their clothes. Research from company Provident

TUTORING ON THE RISE Cli on High School co-educa onal nursery school to sixth form

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About 43% of state school teachers have offered private tutoring outside their main work as demand continues to rise, a report has revealed. The number of state-educated 11 to 16-year-olds in England and Wales who have been privately tutored rose by more than a third over the last decade, according to research by the Sutton Trust. But the charity warned that the growth of the “shadow education” market, which it estimates to be worth up to £2 billion for pupils aged five to 18, is exacerbating inequalities in the education system by pricing lower income students out. Currently across England and Wales, more than a quarter of state-educated 11 to 16-year-olds (700,000 pupils) have been privately tutored at some point, while 43% of state school teachers have offered private tuition. Sir Peter Lampl, chairman of the Sutton Trust and the Education Endowment Foundation, said: “Private tuition is widespread and increasingly so. But with costs of at least £25 per session, many cannot afford to benefit from this extra support, which exacerbates education inequalities. No-one wants to limit parents doing their best for their children, but we need to ensure that extra tuition is as widely available as possible. Otherwise, it will continue to widen the attainment gap.” Maths and English were the most

common subjects to be tutored in, followed by the sciences, Spanish and French. Last year, 280,000 (10%) 11 to 16-year-old pupils in England and Wales received private tuition – a number the trust called “remarkable”. But private school pupils were twice as likely to receive private lessons than those attending state schools, and pupils who received free school meals were almost 10% less likely to be privately tutored than those who did not. The report – based on polling by Ipsos MORI and the National Foundation for Educational Research and data from private tuition agencies – claims to be the “most comprehensive analysis to date” of the UK’s private tuition market. The trust is calling on the Government to introduce means-tested vouchers that will enable lower-income families to access additional educational support and provide quick remuneration to participating tutors and agencies. It also is urging agencies to provide a certain proportion of their tuition to disadvantaged pupils for free. Tutorfair, which has 38,000 tutors and gives free tutoring to one child for every student who pays, was praised as an example of good practice, and grammar schools should encourage children from lower-income backgrounds to apply, the trust recommended.

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WESTERN DAILY PRESS TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 13 2016 EDUCATION GUIDE 2016 9

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10 EDUCATION GUIDE 2016 TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 13 2016 WESTERN DAILY PRESS

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MEETTHE HEADS Badminton School: Rebecca Tear

T Badminton, the staff, both academic and pastoral, as well as all those in supporting roles, work to inspire ideas and develop curiosity in the pupils. The aim, of course, is to facilitate the girls’ access to the next step of their educational journey, but on the way, we hope that our holistic approach broadens their thinking and does not simply fill them with knowledge. There is also plenty of opportunity to actually do things rather than just think about them; I love the way the girls actively engage with their subject material through research projects and community work, rather than just gathering paper qualifications. In fact, one of the most frustrating aspects of my day is knowing the number of amazing things that are taking place in school at any one time and not being able to get to all of them! Badminton’s holistic approach, in which creative arts and sports are integral to everyday life, means that, from the moment you walk through the gates, the busy, friendly atmosphere surrounds you. It is wonderful to be a part of it and to capture the energy that the girls exude as they throw themselves into all they do. The broad range of activities ensures that everyone can find something that interests or challenges them and helps to develop them into the person they want to be.

Broadlands Academy: James Hall

AM delighted to be appointed as the principal of Broadlands Academy from January 2017. I am currently the Senior Deputy Head Teacher at Hayesfield Girls’ School in Bath. My leadership experience has been varied and extensive. Prior to my position at Hayesfield I was Assistant Principal at John Cabot Academy, Bristol, and led on standards of teaching and learning. I have also undertaken voluntary service in Guyana, South America, leading on science, maths and geography. These were amazing experiences and really provided me with a strong foundation on the value education can have on a whole community. Outside of school I try and run when possible, if not particularly fast. I have completed the London Marathon twice and survived the Royal Marines’ assault course. Broadlands Academy puts pastoral care and student opportunities first. I believe in the value smaller schools can have in creating a unique and creative learning environment, while also enabling academic success to be developed and celebrated. Broadlands can expand these opportunities, building a strong and individual curriculum alongside new links with businesses and the community. Broadlands Academy is a fantastic

“ The OFSTED good grading awarded to the school in January 2016 shows the school is already on the road to being outstanding.” school that has shown significant improvement and development over recent years. The OFSTED “good” grading awarded to the school in January 2016 shows that the school is already on the road to being “outstanding” and it is my ambition that Broadlands achieves this recognition. The GCSE results in 2016 are very good and an enormous credit to all the students, staff and parents involved in building this success. I do believe all students deserve success and should be able to achieve their ambitions. I look forward to leading Broadlands Academy in the next stage of its outstanding journey.

✽For more information, call 0117 9864791 or visit www.broadlandsacademy.org.

“ I certainly feel

privileged to be a part of the community here and am hugely proud of all that the girls achieve, but the best part of my job has to be sharing the laughter and sense of fun that will certainly erupt through whatever is going on at some point every day.

Other than being curious, outward looking and confident, there is no “Badminton type”. Each girl is unique! I certainly feel privileged to be a part of the community here and am hugely proud of all that the girls achieve, but the best part of my job has to be sharing the laughter and sense of fun that will certainly erupt through whatever is going on at some point every day. For more information, call 0117 905 5200, or visit www.badmintonschool.co.uk.

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WESTERN DAILY PRESS TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 13 2016 EDUCATION GUIDE 2016 11

MEETTHE HEADS Patchway Community College: Karen Cornick

AREN Cornick has taken up her post as head teacher at Patchway Community College this month. “I’m thrilled to be joining the school at such an exciting time,” she said. “We are celebrating excellent exam results this summer, which reflect students’ hard work and the commitment shown by staff to supporting each individual to achieve their very best.” A total of 58.5 per cent of students achieved A*-C grades in English and maths GCSE this year, which represents a significant increase on last year’s figures. Mrs Cornick said: “There were many wonderful individual achievements, including two students with 10 A or A* grades. The progress that students have made since primary school in English this year is exceptional, with maths seeing a rise of 24 per cent in levels of progress since Year 6.” A-level results were equally impressive, with a 99 per cent pass rate and 69 per cent achieving A*-C. In addition, 86 per cent of level 3 BTECs were graded distinction or higher. Mrs Cornick added: “With these fantastic grades, many Patchway stu-

dents will be starting at universities such as Cardiff, Bristol, Exeter, Swansea and Kent to study degrees in history, law, maths and biomedical sciences later this month.” Earlier this year, Patchway launched a new house system built on four key qualities: Proud, Strong, Confident and Kind. This, together with a vertical tutor system and the new leadership academy, provides students with the qualities and attributes they need to be successful in life. “We have strong positive relationships with families and the local community, “ said Mrs Cornick. “Our students really feel they belong to Patchway even before they start through the Year 6 induction programme,” she added. “Life at Patchway Community College is rich and varied. All Year 7 students sing in the Christmas concert, everyone gets a chance to shine and impress the judges in “Patch Factor” and there are superb musical theatre productions each year, as well as a summer arts showcase. “We have fantastic sports pitches and this means that participation levels are high. Our students compete at a high level and all are en-

“ Our expectations are high. This year’s results are the start of a strong upward trend and we will continue to see outcomes for Patchway students rise year on year.” couraged to try something new: the success of weightlifting for younger students is a great example. “Our expectations are high. Patchway students are clear that attending punctually every day makes a real difference to progress and ultimately, to life chances. This year’s results are the start of a strong upward trend and we will continue to see outcomes for Patchway students rise year on year.”

✽ An open evening is being held on Friday, September 23, with an introductory talk from the head teacher at 6.15pm.

Bristol Technology and Engineering Academy: Rhian Priest

RISTOL Technology and Engineering Academy (BTEA), which opened in September 2013, is a University Technical College (UTC) in Stoke Gifford, close to Bristol Parkway station. UTCs are secondary schools for 14 to 19-year-olds that offer students more than the traditional GCSE and A-level curriculum and deliver an innovative, high-quality education that combines technical, practical and academic learning and offers a real alternative to traditional secondary education. Principal of BTEA, Rhian Priest, who started her career in education as a maths teacher 25 years ago, joined BTEA in 2013. Speaking about UTCs, Rhian said: “The UTC movement is for young people who have an aspiration for making things, a passion for science, maths, computer coding or technology. UTCs are for creative, innovative problem solvers; young people who want to be developed into the technologists and engineers of the future.” BTEA had an outstanding year for GCSE, A-level and BTEC results. GCSE pass rates have risen dramatically to 66 per cent, 65 per cent of A-level learners achieved an A* or B grade in maths and science and the average BTEC engineering grade was distinction plus. Speaking about the BTEA’s success, Rhian said: “BTEA is delighted with 2016’s results, which have been some of the best among schools in the region. Staff and students have worked incredibly hard. “These results demonstrate that studying at a UTC can set you up for

“ UTCs are for creative,

innovative problem solvers; young people who want to be developed into the technologists and engineers of the future.” success after school, allowing you to progress to a top university or high quality apprenticeships with companies like the MoD, Rolls-Royce, Dyson or Airbus.” In addition to BTEA, the South West will soon be home to a new UTC opening in Berkeley, Gloucestershire, in September 2017, which plans to offer some of the best training facilities in the country for the science, technology, maths and engineering industries. Both BTEA and SGS Berkeley Green will be holding open events this September, when visitors can participate in a fun range of activities, speak with staff about courses and life at a UTC, and meet representatives from industry organisations. ✽ BTEA’s open event took place on September 10, while Berkeley Green’s is scheduled for Saturday, September 17, 10am-1pm. For further information about BTEA, visit www.bteacademy.co.uk, or call 0117 983 8080. For Berkeley Green, visit www.berkeleygreenutc.org.uk, or call 0800 0567 253.

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MEETTHE HEADS Fairfield High: Catriona Mangham and Nick Lewis

ATRIONA Mangham has been the head at Fairfield High School for seven years and has now moved on to the position of Executive Principal. Nick Lewis will be overseeing the school on a daily basis as Head of School. The ambition is for the school to be rated “outstanding” at its next inspection and it is well on the way, having made great strides since it was judged by Ofsted to be “good” with “outstanding” features in 2013. The school recorded its best ever exam results this year, with 60 per cent of students achieving five or more A*-C grades including English and maths and 62 per cent of students receiving at least a grade C in English and maths. The school’s value added score continues to place it in the top 10 per cent of schools in the country. The school is now oversubscribed, with a waiting list in Year 7 and has an extremely diverse intake, with more than 40 flags in the impressive atrium representing students’ nationalities. Ms Mangham is particularly pleased the inspectors said Fairfield was the most racially harmonious they had ever visited and that people coming to the school for the first time always comment on the school’s calm atmosphere and how polite and enthusiastic the students are. Parents love the community atmosphere too. Among their comments: “This is not a monoculture. This is what I want my child to experience. This is what the outside world is like.” Students of all levels of ability, and those who arrive speaking little

“ The ambition is for the school to be rated “outstanding” at its next inspection and it is well on the way, having made great strides since it was judged by Ofsted to be “good” with “outstanding” features in 2013.” or no English, make exceptional progress. Ms Mangham and Mr Lewis are proud of the broad and balanced curriculum, in which creative subjects, languages and humanities are very important. They also acknowledge the “fantastic staff, who provide the right mix of subjects for our students”. Fairfield has excellent links with numerous local businesses, including Burges Salmon, and is proud to have achieved the Employability Charter mark. An open evening is scheduled for Thursday, September 22, 6-9pm, and open mornings on Thursday and Friday, September 29 and 30, and Tuesday and Wednesday, October 4 and 5, 9.15-10.30am. For further information, call 0117 952 7100 or visit www.fairfield.bristol.sch.uk.

Downend School: Mark Fuller

OWNEND School is an exciting and vibrant learning community where every young person is supported to achieve their very best. Mark Fuller took over the headship at Downend School at Easter 2016. He was previously the Associate Head Teacher at Downend. Downend School has seen significant improvements in GCSE and A-levels over recent years, making the school one of the most improved in the area. The sixth form has achieved the highest “value-added” at A-level of all the schools in South Gloucestershire for the last three years running. Over the last few years, Downend School has undergone substantial refurbishment, with the opening of a new IT hub, inclusion centre and innovation centre. Last year the school completely refurbished its dining hall, library and sixth form centre. In September 2014, Ofsted recognised the strength of Downend School, awarding a “good” judgement in every area inspected. The inspectors noted that “teachers have high expectations” and that “students’ attitudes to learning are good and they conduct themselves well around the school”. Inspectors also praised “an aspir-

“ The sixth form has achieved the highest “value-added” at A-level of all the schools in South Gloucestershire for the last three years running.”

ational culture throughout the school”. The school runs a large number of extra-curricular activities, including an award-winning film club, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme and various local and national engineering competitions. The open evening is on Thursday, September 22, 5.45-8pm. Open mornings are taking place daily from September 26 to October 20 (9-10.30am) when the head teacher will personally show parents and prospective students around the school. Appointments for open mornings can be made by contacting Sarah Ware on 01454 862300.

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MEETTHE HEADS Oasis Academy Brightstowe: Joe Docherty

ASIS Academy Brightstowe is an independent academy for 11-16 year olds which opened in 2008 and is located in state-of- the-art buildings in Shirehampton. I was appointed principal this summer, after serving as acting principal for a year and, before that, for several years as a deputy principal under my predecessor Matt Butler. I came into teaching after training at Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and pursuing a career in the Army with the Royal Corps of Signals. This is an excellent time to have begun my tenure at Oasis Academy Brightstowe, with our Year 11s having just secured a successful set of GCSE results. This summer the number of A and A* grades rose for the second year running and first entry results were up 18 per cent on last year. The Progress 8 score also improved this year, up to 0.06, and seven students secured seven or more A*s or As. It is especially pleasing to see that these students have come to us from a diverse range of schools, including Avon Primary, Long Cross, Shirehampton Primary and Stoke Bishop Primary. Overall, 48 per cent of students scored five A*-C grades including English and maths, with half of the cohort securing at least one A* or A. Our academy is one which truly benefits the community which it serves; as well

■ Oasis Academy Brightstowe students in a video link up with astronaut Tim Peake on board the International Space Station

as going on to sixth form, including a select group who secure scholarships to independent schools Redmaids’ High and Colston’s each year, other students choose to go down the apprenticeship route, many with prestigious local employers such as Bristol Port Company and Nisbets. We are driven by the ambition that every single student who comes to the academy should have the confidence and range of skills to stand as an equal in any circle and for any opportunity. Whether it is through our performing arts faculty, our music academy or our sports academies in rowing, rugby, girls’ football and golf, we aim to maximise the self esteem and aspirations of our students. Then there are the once-in-a-lifetime opportunities which school life can present; for example, last year seven of our students took part in a live sound and video link-up with astronaut Tim Peake on board the International Space Station. ✽An open evening is being held on Wednesday, September 21, from 5.30-7.30pm and open mornings on Wednesdays, September 28, October 5, 12 and 19, and November 2 and 9. To book for an open morning, contact us at 0117 316 7330 or email enquiries@oasisbrightstowe.org. For further information, visit www.oasisacademybrightstowe.org

Mangotsfield School: David Spence

AVID Spence took over the headship at Mangotsfield School in September 2015. He was previously the Vice Principal at Bristol Metropolitan Academy. Mangotsfield School is undergoing a huge period of change. From September 2016, we are introducing a number of changes designed to take our ethos further and promote a culture of high standards and expectations. Students were involved in choosing a more traditional uniform, and we are moving towards a house system, which will be the vehicle to develop exciting challenges and competitions weekly, as well as new roles for our students. In addition, we have introduced a new pastoral structure, “vertical tutoring”, which will mix up year groups and allow for more of a family approach to mentoring. Our new curriculum blends a pathways approach over a three-year GCSE programme and offers our students genuine personalisation and choice for their options, after expert one-to-one guidance. This past year, the school has undertaken a dramatic building and refurbishment programme, this summer creating a new visitor reception and updating the oldest part of the school to give our students the best possible environment for study. Over the school year, we completely refurbished the hall, a new leadership hub and our sixth form centre. Membership of the Premium Partners network will allow us to develop and exploit contacts with local businesses and

“ The school has

undertaken a dramatic building and refurbishment programme, creating a new visitor reception and updating the oldest part of the school to give our students the best possible environment for study.”

involve them in curriculum projects. Mangotsfield School prides itself on the diversity of extra-curricular opportunities that students are able to access. The extra-curricular offer varies in its diversity from the Duke of Edinburgh scheme to a photography club, from engineering and art clubs to a wide range of sports teams, who successfully compete in local and national competitions.

✽The open evening is on Monday September 12, 5.30-8pm. Open mornings are taking place daily from September 14 to October 20 (from 9am) when parents will receive a personal tour from the head teacher. Appointments for open mornings can be made by contacting Julie Scull on 01454 862703.

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MEETTHE HEADS Bristol Grammar School: Rod MacKinnon

HIS autumn, Bristol Grammar School will open its new performing arts centre, 1532, named for the year in which BGS received its Royal Charter. The building, a blend of the old and the new, reflects one of the school’s great strengths; the ability to take the best of our heritage and history and build upon it to ensure we offer every child who joins us an education suited to the world in which we live today. A further example of BGS moving with the times is the decision, taken almost 40 years ago, to become fully co-educational. Having taught in both single-sex and mixed schools, I strongly believe co-education is the best model for today’s world. Schools need to prepare their students for the world in which they will live and work. By learning together, girls and boys build the vital self-confidence, respect and interpersonal skills that enable them to thrive, both socially and academically. Preparation for life beyond school is often at the front of parents’ minds when choosing a school for their

child. While BGS students regularly achieve some of the best exam results in the city, as a headmaster, I firmly believe that the most important parts of education cannot be measured. Our inspection in September 2015 found BGS achieves “excellence in all it does within and beyond the classroom” and it is the vast array of opportunities beyond the classroom which makes BGS so special. We aim to give every child the support and opportunities needed to challenge themselves, to take risks and to learn to succeed through being unafraid to fail. There are a whole range of activities students at BGS can get involved in, from artistic performance to sporting performance; model United Nations meetings to STEM cafés (discussing science, technology, engineering and mathematics); from kayaking in Bristol harbour to trekking in the Atlas mountains. I never cease to be impressed by the enthusiasm with which students at BGS embrace the many oppor-

tunities on offer here, testament to the enjoyment they gain from this approach to education. Confidence gained outside the classroom sparks confidence in the classroom, and new-found passions inspire learning and discovery. This is what enables BGS students to achieve such excellent results, and also ensures they leave us as interested and interesting young people, well prepared to find happiness and fulfilment in life beyond school. I am proud to lead a school with the long history of Bristol Grammar School, and even more proud of the fact that it offers an outstanding all-round education; academic excellence yes, but also inspiring our students to take on a challenge, believe in themselves and have the confidence to pursue their ambitions. This is what makes BGS so special. For further information, call 0117 9736006, email website@bgs.bristol.sch.uk, or visit www.bristolgrammarschool.co.uk.

Bristol Grammar School Infants and Juniors: Peter Huckle

he Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) visit to BGS a year ago was a very significant event in the history of the infants and junior school. It was the first time since its opening in 2010 that our thriving infant school had been subject to the scrutiny of external professionals. Our Early Years Foundation Stage provision was singled out for particular praise; a deserved accolade for the hardworking team whose vision, energy and expertise has turned an idea into the reality of outstanding care and development in a matter of years. The whole school community – children, parents and staff – were delighted by the ISI’s judgement of “wall to wall excellence” and pleased

that the inspectors had experienced the school in the way we do on a daily basis. It is tremendous to have external validation of why we feel so proud of the children and of our provision for them. That judgement provided the whole school with a fantastic fillip at the start of the last academic year. This year, the feel-good factor has been provided by the exciting opening of the new performing arts centre, 1532, enhancing the facilities for dance, drama and music. The performing arts are an important part of life at Bristol Grammar, not only within our rich curriculum, but also outside of the classroom through extensive co-curricular provision. Every infant and junior child here has taken part in

performances of some type this year and it has been heart-warming to witness their enthusiasm and growing confidence. It is exciting to think that the wonderful new facility, shared by the whole school, will provide children with further inspiration and help them as they develop the confidence, team-working skills and creativity that comes from performing for others. Confidence achieved outside the classroom improves confidence inside the classroom, developing enquiring minds and passions for whatever subject it may be. For further information, call 0117 9736006, email website@bgs.bristol.sch.uk, or visit www.bristolgrammarschool.co.uk.

Cleve House School: Craig Wardle

t is now a year since I took over as headmaster of Cleve House School from David and Elaine Lawson, who ran the school together for an amazing 28 years. It is always difficult for any new head to follow such a long-established leadership team, but, as Cleve House approaches its 80th anniversary, I have been implementing some key changes, while retaining all that makes our school special. Pupil numbers have increased steadily throughout the main school and in Little Cleve Nursery, where we have taken in two-year-olds for the first time. There is a wonderful tradition of two and even three generations of the same family coming to

the school and we want that to continue, as well as appealing to a new demographic. The traditional ethos, small class sizes and a nurturing atmosphere have remained constant, as has the range of extra-curricular activities and specialist teaching on site, for example in French and music. At the top end of the school, our Year 6 leavers continue to have an excellent track record in securing admission to their chosen secondary school, whether in the state or independent sector. In addition, we are extending the already superb range of opportunities available to our pupils, combining our best traditions with a

forward-thinking curriculum and teaching methods. Forging new relationships with other schools, both state and private, has been a real focus for me over the past year and we have joined the Independent Schools Association, a professional organisation which ensures standards of excellence and pastoral care. Looking ahead, we are putting together a varied programme of celebrations to mark the school’s 80th birthday, which will involve many of our former pupils and staff. As we begin our ninth decade, we look forward to many more pupils benefiting from a Cleve House education.

“ As Cleve House

approaches its 80th anniversary, I have been implementing some key changes, while retaining all that makes our school special.” To get a proper feel for the school’s ethos and operation, make an appointment to visit the site on Wells Road, Bristol. To book, call 0117 977 7218, or, for further information, visit www.clevehouseschool.com.

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MEETTHE HEADS Clifton High School

R Alison Neill has a long association with Clifton High both as a senior member of staff and as a parent of a daughter and a son who were pupils at the school. She has been Head of School at Clifton High for the last eight years, with Dr Helen Pascoe and Dr Mark Caddy taking up their posts as Deputy Heads over a year ago. Clifton High is perhaps the only school in the area where both the

head and deputies have academic qualifications to PhD level. In February, 2016, the school was delighted with its Independent Schools Inspectorate report. This further validated its position as a fully co-educational school and the only school in Bristol to operate the Diamond Edge Model of education, whereby girls and boys are taught separately in core subjects between the ages of 11 and 14.

Well known for its outstanding pastoral care and extra-curricular programme, the school’s three-to-18 provision and small class sizes contribute to a nurturing environment that fosters curiosity, creativity and confidence. Last year, the school celebrated the GCSE successes of the first sets of boys and girls who joined when the school became co-educational, operating the Diamond Edge Model.

This year’s cohort has built upon those successes with some excellent results and an increase in the number of A* grades, A* and A grades and A* and B grades. Excellent grades in particular were seen in the separate sciences, maths and languages, both ancient and modern. All of the pupils achieved at least six A*-C grades, including English, maths and the separate sciences and, across our 17 subjects at GCSE, more than 99 per

cent of the grades awarded were A*-C. The recent ISI report states that “pupils’ attainment at both GCSE and A-level, together with standardised measures of progress, indicate that they make progress in the senior years that is high in relation to the average for pupils of similar abilities. The proportion of pupils gaining the highest grades at both GCSE and A-level is well above national averages”.

HEAD OF SCHOOL: DR ALISON NEILL ■ After training as a biologist, Dr Neill worked with undergraduates and taught at a further education college and then at a large co-educational secondary school in the maintained sector. She has also worked in industry, in particular with scientific companies. She joined Clifton High as a teacher of biology more than 20 years ago before progressing to Head of Sixth Form and then took on management of the senior years before becoming overall Head of School. She has responsibility for educational strategy and direction, children and pupil welfare and staff appointments. Dr Neill is an independent schools inspector and a member of The Society of Heads for independent schools, where she sits on its professional development committee. She is also a member of the child welfare expert group, part of the Independent School’s Council.

Dr Neill recognises the importance of developing the softer, transferable skills as well as the academic; she has initiated a leadership programme for pupils from Years 7-13 designed to develop their leadership skills and a programme of life skills and competencies to run alongside GCSE courses. Her aim is for pupils to leave Clifton High as confident, yet grounded individuals, with the transferable skills that top universities and employers are looking for today.

✽ For further information, call 0117 973 0201, or visit www.cliftonhigh.bristol.sch.uk

DR MARK CADDY

DR HELEN PASCOE

■ Dr Mark Caddy has a degree and Ph.D. in chemistry from the University of Warwick. He joined Clifton High from Palmers Green High School in London, where he held the position of deputy head for more than four and a half years. Prior to this, he has been head of maths as well as a teacher of maths, chemistry and physical education. Dr Caddy has experience as a scout leader, a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award leader and has led educational visits to Singapore, Australia, USA and Germany. A keen sportsman, Dr Caddy also coaches judo, squash and athletics and plays volleyball. He is a board member of an international children’s charity where he is also an advisor to the educational department of the North Bank of The Gambia. Dr Caddy has previously worked in three independent schools, including all-through, single sex, co-educational and boarding schools.

■ Dr Helen Pascoe has a degree in food science and a Ph.D. in chemistry from the University of Reading. She is actively engaged in educational issues and holds a PGCE and an MSc in educational leadership. Dr Pascoe has progressed rapidly, having worked in education for just 12 years. She started her career as a teacher of chemistry before becoming head of chemistry and then head of Key Stage 3 at Royal High School, Bath. She then moved on to become deputy head of Blackheath High School in South East London. She has previously worked in all-through schools, teaching children from three to 18 in subjects as diverse as science, chemistry, food technology, geography, EPQ and PSHE. She has also led overseas trips to Ghana, China and India and has been actively involved in the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme. Dr Pascoe has experience in developing and coaching middle leaders, raising teaching standards and ensuring school

He has particular experience in pastoral, academic and curricular matters and has managed successful school inspections. Dr Caddy joined Clifton High School in April 2015 and his responsibilities also extend right across the school from the nursery school to the sixth form. He will also be teaching mathematics and physical education.

policies and procedures are compliant with regulations. She also has an excellent track record in quality assurance, assessment and tracking and has experience in managing successful school inspections. Dr Pascoe joined Clifton High in April 2015 and her responsibilities extend right across the school from the nursery school to the sixth form.

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COLLEGE OPEN TO ALL! Join us at our Open Day and find out about South Gloucestershire & Stroud Collegeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wide range of apprenticeships, sports academies, full and part-time study programmes and University Level courses.

Our Open Day at SGS Filton, WISE, Berkeley Green & Queens Road is on:

Saturday 1st October, 10:00 - 13:00 For further details visit www.sgscol.ac.uk or call 0800 0567 253