Staines‑upon‑Thames Middlesex TW18 1PF
Telephone: 01784 457 275
E‑mail: info@matthew‑arnold.surrey.sch.uk
www.matthew‑arnold.surrey.sch.uk
Welcome
Welcome to The Matthew Arnold School. At our school we are proud to provide a learning environment that is an exciting adventure, full of opportunities for personal development, achievement and enjoyment. We aim to nurture the potential of every child, developing their talents so that they can grow, enabling them to ‘Dream Big, Work Hard and Achieve’.
We believe that everyone is capable of excellence and as a school we strive to ensure that every student thrives during their time with us; achieving more than they ever thought possible. Our results speak for themselves (see the table on page 4). Providing the best quality of education is our priority, but it is of equal importance to offer a caring and supportive environment with a strong pastoral structure, where parents and staff work in partnership to help students reach their full potential.
Our aim is for our students to get the best curriculum and school experience and so we welcome students who have an open and curious mind and an appetite to make the most of opportunities available, whether that be in the classroom, on the sports field, in the music or art rooms, on stage, or in our amazing farm.
All we do is guided by our school values of: Respect, Kindness and Aspiration and I look forward to meeting you and your child so that you can see for yourself the exciting opportunities that The Matthew Arnold School provides.
Assal Ruse Headteacher
‘The commitment of the teachers at The Matthew Arnold School is for the children to thrive and be the best version of themselves – this can never be questioned’.
Parent
Curriculum
At The Matthew Arnold School, our curriculum is designed to reflect our motto: Dream Big, Work Hard, Achieve. We offer an ambitious and aspirational learning journey that lays the foundation for every student to pursue their future of choice with confidence and success. We are proud to foster a culture of high expectations, where a love of learning and a drive for excellence are at the heart of everything we do. Our curriculum is broad, balanced, and inclusive—supporting students of all abilities and backgrounds to thrive academically and personally.
In Key Stage 3 (Years 7, 8 and 9) students study topics within the National Curriculum including English, Mathematics, Science, Art, Computing, Drama, Geography, History, Modern Foreign Languages (Spanish), Music, Physical Education, Religious Studies and Technology.
In Key Stage 4 (Years 10 and 11), students follow a curriculum that is centered around preparation for their GCSE examinations. All students study a core set of subjects, including GCSE English Language and Literature, Mathematics, and Science. In addition to these, students select four further GCSE subjects, allowing them to tailor their learning to their interests and future aspirations.
Our approach to learning is centered around creating interactive and inclusive lessons that celebrate success, resilience, and focus. Every lesson includes dedicated independent learning time, helping students build confidence and self‑belief in their abilities. We place strong emphasis on regular assessment and high‑quality feedback, ensuring that all students are continually challenged and supported in their progress. Importantly, we value student voice and ownership in the learning process, encouraging active involvement in target‑setting and goal achievement to foster a sense of responsibility and aspiration. We are committed to equipping our students with the skills, values, and cultural capital needed to make a lasting and positive contribution to society—locally and globally.
‘The school environment is full of teachers who genuinely care for the students and actively encourage us to be the best version of ourselves’.
Year 11 Student
Inspiring Teaching and Learning
Our approach to teaching and learning is rooted in evidence‑based practice and a deep commitment to meeting the needs of every learner.
Our teachers use adaptive teaching to respond to students’ individual needs, ensuring that all learners are supported and challenged appropriately.
Central to our practice is the MAS Teach 5, our core framework for excellent teaching.
This includes:
• Teaching actively to engage students in meaningful learning
• Effective questioning to check for understanding and promote deeper thinking
• Assessment and adaptation to inform instruction and personalise learning
• Classroom management to create calm, focused environments
• High expectations that inspire students to achieve their best
Together, these principles and practices create a culture of high‑quality teaching, where every student is empowered to succeed.
‘I feel proud to share school always
share my thoughts because the values what I have to say’.
Year 11 Student
‘As a parent I really do believe that everyone at The Matthew Arnold School embodies the core values ‑ Respect, Kindness and Aspiration. All students are given the chance to showcase their skills and talents, and even if this is not academic there is still something for everyone’.
Parent
‘Being able to speak up and be heard makes me fell like a real part of the school community’.
Year 11 Student
Support and Guidance
Our approach is to know students as individuals and to understand their needs so that we can help them to develop into well rounded students being comfortable around their peers and staff.
Tutor groups meet daily and so any needs can be identified enabling them to settle in quickly. In support of this is our experienced pastoral team who are trained to help our students cope with the challenges of teenage life – equipping them with the skills they need to progress and develop with confidence.
Our approach is based on teamwork, as our pastoral support team liaise closely with students, parents and teaching staff to identify and cater for the range of learning, emotional and physical needs of all students.
Each student will also become a member of one of four houses – Swords, Swans, Crowns or Oaks further establishing a sense of belonging, fun and enjoyment, with the opportunity to foster a competitive spirit during the many inter‑house tournaments and events that take place throughout the year.
In essence, we realise that happy students make good students.
Farm
At the heart of our school community is our farm, home to a wonderful variety of animals that bring learning to life every day. The farm is a place where students connect with nature, develop responsibility, and experience hands‑on animal care.
Greta and Hamish – our lovable pigs, enjoy a good scratch and plenty of attention whilst our goats are always up to cheeky antics. Our guinea pigs and tortoises offer a quieter, calming presence, perfect for students who enjoy observing and caring for smaller animals.
The farm not only offers a new area of curriculum support but is a space where our students can develop it is a hub for wellbeing, enrichment, and community. Whether it is feeding time, mucking out, or simply enjoying a peaceful moment with the animals, there is always something meaningful happening.
Come and visit, volunteer, or just say hello—there’s always a warm welcome waiting at the Matthew Arnold School Farm!
Starting in Year 7/ Transition
Moving to secondary school can be a challenging time for any student and so the transition process is sensitively managed by all of our staff to ensure the adjustment is a smooth and enjoyable process.
Through our committed staff we provide effective and nurturing support to help students from the moment they arrive. We do this by….
• Each Year 7 student having a dedicated form tutor, who they will see every morning to support them with the transition to secondary school.
• Each year group has a head of year, selected for the position because of experience in providing the best transition pathway for their students.
• Form tutors and heads of year move with their students where possible, providing a long‑term and stable relationship.
• The tutor programme is comprehensive and a valued part of the school day where students explore tailored literacy and numeracy sessions and adult‑led reading. PSHE lessons are delivered to all year groups to explore the social, moral, spiritual and cultural issues through bespoke lessons.
‘My son
was so anxious this made us very the difference in him, supported transition, cared. We
‘Ms Ruse really looks after the students’.
‘As
someone who has finished Year 7, the made me feel really welcome and I made of new friends’.
Year 8
Year 9 Student
anxious about starting secondary school, as parents very nervous. When I look at him now, I am shocked at him, he is thriving. This is thanks to the smooth and transition, a team of staff who have not only listened but We could not be happier with our choice’.
Parent looks students’.
Student
‘The school has made me feel welcome and safe when I was nervous about coming to school’.
Year 8 Student has just the school really made lots friends’.
8 Student
Enrichment
We make sure that extracurricular programmes are a core part of what we do as we actively encourage participation in the broad range of clubs where our students learn new skill and talents and forge new relationships. These include:
• Lunchtime and after school clubs offering a broad range of activities.
• Learning new animal care skills in our amazing new farm.
• PE clubs where students can go on to represent our school – some even have been signed up by Chelsea and Brentford Academies.
• Opportunity to participate in our drama performances or music concerts, or our Youth Speaks competition run by the Rotary Club.
• Participate in UK and overseas trips – in 2024 we took students to Porto and on a skiing trip to Italy. In 2026 we will have a geography trip to Iceland plus trips to UK libraries and museums.
• Duke of Edinburgh programme.
• Over 200 students access our daily breakfast club.
The benefits of participation can be seen in having a healthy and active lifestyle, but also in acquiring life skills and interests whereby our students learn teamwork and ability to forge strong bonds with peers that can last a lifetime.
All of this goes a long way to helping them acquire the skills to deal with real life.
‘What I love most about this school is that it truly cares for my daughter—not just her education, but her happiness and growth. She learns so much in the classroom, but also benefits from the many clubs, activities, and experiences offered throughout the year. She feels safe, valued, and always looks forward to her school day’.
Parent
Safeguarding and Wellbeing
We are proud of our strong culture of safeguarding, where every student is known, supported, and cared for. Our highly visible safeguarding team works closely with staff and students to meet a wide range of emotional and learning needs, ensuring every child can thrive regardless of background or ability.
We believe that happy, healthy and safe students achieve their best. From greeting students at the gate each morning to ensuring they leave positively at the end of the day.
Careers Education
We aim to provide the best level of advice and guidance so they can make informed choices for their future career options.
We do this through a structured programme aligned with the Gatsby Benchmarks where every student receives high‑quality guidance and exposure to a wide range of career pathways, and meaningful encounters with employers and training providers.
Our careers provision includes interactive workshops, one‑to‑one guidance, and opportunities to engage with further education and apprenticeship providers, helping each learner build the confidence and skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
Sport
At The Matthew Arnold School, sport is more than just physical activity—it’s a dynamic part of our curriculum that nurtures discipline, teamwork, and personal growth. Students engage in a comprehensive program that blends theoretical understanding with practical application. These lessons provide the foundation for informed performance and lifelong wellness. On the field, court, or track, students apply these concepts through structured physical education sessions, skill development drills, and competitive gameplay across a variety of traditional and non‑traditional sports including football, netball, athletics, and badminton. Those who wish to study sport at GCSE level have the opportunity to study either the AQA course, or the Level 2 BTEC Sport Award.
Sport is a key element of what we offer at The Matthew Arnold School with incredible facilities and a high quality teaching staff – many of whom are recognised within national and elite levels. The facilities include dedicated fitness suite, full size sports hall, and 4G and 3G sports pitches.
Our extensive enrichment sports program offers students the chance to deepen their involvement and discover new passions. Weekly clubs, inter‑house competitions, and the opportunity to take part in regional and national competitions where our teams consistently achieve success fosters a spirit of camaraderie and healthy
competition. Football continues to be a source of pride, with students representing the school in elite competitions and alumni progressing to academy‑level. This includes some going off to Chelsea and Brentford FC academies.
Meanwhile, rugby, basketball, and handball are rapidly developing, supported by dedicated staff and growing student interest. Leadership roles such as house and team captains empower students to take initiative and build confidence. Whether aiming for elite performance or simply enjoying the thrill of movement, every student finds a place to thrive.
The Matthew Arnold School, 2025.