NEWS MSJ IS 'EXCELLENT' MSJ received the highest rating of ‘excellent’ in our inspection report published by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) in May. There are two outcomes assessed by the ISI in its Educational Quality Inspection: ‘the quality of pupils’ academic and other achievements’, and ‘the quality of pupils’ personal development’ MSJ achieved an ‘excellent’ in both areas. Key Findings, which summarise the report, state that ‘pupils develop excellent levels of knowledge, understanding and skills … (They) communicate fluently and persuasively
Worcestershire Education Awards demonstrates how girls benefit from the pastoral support they receive, and the culture of the school and its community ethos. There are many references in the report to the spirit of collaboration, teamwork and a sense of belonging that imbues the school, and I’m delighted that the inspectors saw the sense of fun which is such a big part of who we are. They also observed that ‘even the youngest pupils are willing to offer a partially correct answer in class rather than remain silent. They are not afraid to make mistakes ... teachers establish pupils’ perseverance and resilience through their gentle but firm encouragement’.” “This willingness to ‘have a go’ and not fear making a mistake is part of our philosophy at MSJ. If girls believe that it’s OK to try and fail, rather than having to be perfect all the time, they are more likely to take intellectual and creative risks and enjoy the ride, which means working harder and going further in the long run.”
and have highly developed levels of numeracy, literacy and ICT skills … (and they) excel in sport, performing and other arts, and a range of extra-curricular activities’. The inspectors also observed that ‘a sense of fun and laughter is rarely far away’. Mrs Raraty was delighted: “This report is an endorsement of the quality of learning and life at MSJ and recognises the school’s many strengths in academic attainment, academic enrichment and extra-curricular activities” she said. “The ‘excellent’ rating in pupils’ personal development
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The ISI report went on to remark that pupils are ‘self-confident’ but also have a ‘highly developed capacity for constructive self-criticism’; they ‘contribute to the school and wider community’ and show ‘highly developed social awareness’. It was noted that our girls have an excellent sense of personal and moral responsibility, and preparation for life beyond school is good because ‘although guidance is always available, the choices are always theirs’. Mrs Raraty commented, “All of this is really important in developing young women who are ready to take their place in the world and can do so with confidence but not arrogance. I feel a bounce in the step of the whole community: we knew we were doing well and it’s wonderful to have that officially recognised by the rigorous testing of the schools’ inspectorate.” The school’s boarding provision was also inspected in the Focused Compliance Inspection for Schools with Residential Provision and met all required standards.
ur very own Mrs Wilkinson was shortlisted for Teacher of the Year in the Worcestershire Education Awards 2017. I was privileged to complete my final teaching practice under the keen eye of Mrs W back in 2013. I arrived nervously at the MSJ gates, clinging to my enormous PGCE training file and feeling that unique bubble of excitement and fear which only a trainee teacher can have experienced before they meet the mentor of a new placement. However, as soon as I stepped into Mrs W’s classroom, she established such a unique rapport with me that I felt as though I could be that teacher I had set out to be. Our journey was not plain sailing. I looked back over my files for this article and can report that Mrs W was ‘slightly disappointed’ by the first lesson she observed me teach – although, like so many trainees lucky enough to train with her, she soon scaffolded me up to that ‘outstanding’ bracket. To this day, every hour I work with Mrs W, I learn something new or feel inspired by the lessons she has done. Ok, fine…sometimes a bit jealous too!
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So what does it take to reach that moment in your teaching career where you find yourself on the shortlist for Teacher of the Year, I wonder? Our very own Head of Prep observes that ‘Zinnia Wilkinson is one of those magical marvellous individuals who appear rarely in one’s life. Her unconditional love and understanding of the children she teaches is extraordinary and her empathy enables her to really understand each individual child and draw out their character, skills and talents in a unique fashion. As a colleague, she is dynamic and creative. Unstinting of her time, her levels of perfection are high, no matter the size of the task. I am a better teacher and person for having worked with, and known, her.’ Fine praise indeed! But what does Mrs Wilkinson herself have to say about her successful career? How long have you been teaching? I have been teaching for 23 years! My first job was in a Reception Class in a big Primary School in Cirencester – Chesterton Primary School. What is your favourite thing about teaching children? The children – they make every day different and exciting and I never know what to expect! What is the funniest thing that has ever happened to you at school? The funniest thing was when I had a Chinese restaurant role-play area at a school near Ledbury. I didn’t have a rule about how many children should play in there at once and I looked up from hearing a reader to see 17 4 year olds, crammed like upright chopsticks into the tiny space, unable to move or play because of the crush! A child also had a
wee on me during assembly which wasn’t particularly funny for me, but made my colleagues laugh! What would your advice be to a newly qualified teacher? Speaking from a position of experience and advancing years, my advice to a new teacher would be to remember the children are what really matters in teaching. Being a part of a child’s education is a responsibility and a privilege, as well as being a true joy. So it must time to put your money where your mouth is Mrs W! Let’s see what the children of past and present think of you as a teacher…. “Mrs W always helped me when I needed it and she was always by my side when I wanted her. She always stood up for me.” Lily Wallis-Tanser
“When I was little I was lucky enough to have the amazing Mrs W as my teacher. I remember the first time I met her, when she came to my nursery. “Why is MSJ a girls’ school?” I asked. “Because girls rock” she replied. I have never forgotten that or all my happy times in Pre-Prep with her.” Rose Taylor “Mrs Wilkinson has always been an inspiration to me and so much of what I can do now in Year 6 comes from her.” Isabella Michael "I have been lucky enough to have known Mrs Wilkinson for 9 years and she has always been my favourite teacher. There have been many times during my school life that I have wished I could turn back time and go back to Mrs W in Reception. She is warm, funny, understanding, but mainly she made learning fun, so much so you didn't realise you were actually learning at the time." Lexie Preston It's definitely true then – put children at the centre of everything you do and a beloved teacher it makes. Congratulations on your nomination, Mrs Wilkinson. By Mrs Lane (Pre-Prep 1)
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