PATHWAY PROGRAMME
At Tockington Manor School we pride ourselves on identifying and developing the talents of the individual. To celebrate our 75th Anniversary, we have launched our Pathway Programme for children in Years 7 and 8 to give an extra supporting hand to those with a specific talent.
Past Parent
Mr George Ross, Pathway Programme Co-Ordinator
“ The school has always attracted excellent pupils and nurtured their talents to earn entry into their first choice Senior School. The Pathway Programme is an extension of what we already do so well at TMS and is an excellent opportunity for Year 7 and 8 pupils.
“I am really excited to be leading the TMS Pathway Programme. We are developing an excellent programme of support, specialist tuition and unique experiences to provide our pupils with a strong platform for Senior School Scholarship application. By bringing these aspects together we can clearly see how much our pupils benefit.
“I am really looking forward to seeing more young people fulfil their potential. The sky is the limit for our pupils and I am sure this programme has the potential to develop acclaimed academic scholars, prize-winning authors, award- winning actors and directors, celebrated musicians as well as Olympians and World Champions. Join us for the journey!”
“Joining TMS for Year 7 and 8 not only gave our son a chance to prepare for Senior School, but the extra support with his cricket helped him earn a full Sports Scholarship to his first choice school.“
“Tockington helps you to improve in all aspects: Sports and Academic. I got lots of encouragement with my Scholarship application and had plenty of support in preparation for the interviews and tests.”
Past Pupil, Academic & Art Scholar
Benefits
There are a myriad of benefits for those pupils on the Pathway Programme, many of which will also benefit all children in Years 7 and 8. Well-being seminars will provide helpful hints and discussions to help balance schoolwork, home life and their chosen specialism.
All Pathway Programme pupils will receive additional preparation and support from the Pathway Programme Co-ordinator to prepare them for Senior School Scholarship assessments.
The Academic Programme
The Academic Programme will include 1:1 lessons with the subject specialist teacher, subject specialist Scholarship Clubs and attendance at specialist workshops and events external to TMS. Pupils have previously attended Science workshops, an AI workshop and had visits from authors and subject specialists.
Sports Programme
The Sports Programme will include 1:1 lessons with the subject specialist teacher, after school sports clubs, regular competitive sports fixtures and coaching. In addition to our specialist coaches for swim squad, we will offer outside training opportunities with access to external gyms and strength and conditioning facilities.
Our long-standing partnership with Gloucestershire County Cricket gives us access to coaches, players and fixtures. We have links with professional sports coaches to offer seminars and additional training in a variety of sports including Cricket, GB Hockey and England Rugby. We will support and encourage your child’s need to attend high level sporting competitions during term time.
Music Programme
The Music Programme will include entrance into external competitions, participation in the school orchestra and choir and individual support for pupils with our highly qualified teachers.
The Programme will be supported by highly qualified music teachers in several disciplines who will work on music theory and more. Introductory sessions will encourage pupils to try new instruments to expand their skills. Guest speakers from the music industry, including successful Old Tockingtonians will be invited to share their expertise.
Arts and Drama Programme
The Arts and Drama Programme will include Pathway trips to Bristol Museum, Bath Holburn Museum and the Banksy Art Day in Bristol. Individual support for pupils with our highly qualified teachers will be enhanced by visiting artists, experienced actors and theatre groups.
Pupils will perform in at least one dramatic performance a year with the opportunity to develop backstage skills including set design, lighting and props. We hold a careers workshop as part of our partnership with The Bristol Hippodrome with access to all departments and a tour of the theatre. Pupils will also have the opportunity to visit a variety of National Theatres as part of the programme.
Entry Requirements
We are a non-selective school but acceptance to the Pathway Programme is subject to minimum entry requirements and an Assessment Day. The following entry requirements must be met to apply to the Pathway Programme before being invited to an Assessment Day:
•Academic
Score of over 120 in GL assessment on Assessment Day.
• Sport
Competing at National or County level in their chosen sport.
OR
Portfolio on chosen sport and proof of participation at a competitive level.
• Music
Grade 4 or above in one or more instruments.
AND/OR
Portfolio containing evidence of musical experience such as public performances for singing or performing with chosen intrument.
• Art and Drama
Portfolio of work in a variety of mixed media.
AND / OR
Portfolio containing evidence of acting / dance performances and training.
Following an initial application, your child will be invited to an Assessment Day for their specific specialism. Assessments will vary depending on the subject area but all applicants will interview with the Headmaster, have a practical test in their subject area and complete a successful taster day.
Feedback will be given following their assessment and you will be invited to meet with the Pathway Programme Co-ordinator, Headmaster and Registrar to discuss the next steps.
Scholarship Support
This is not a financial scholarship, instead focusing on the added value and specialist support for your talented pupil. If your child is offered a place on the Pathway Programme you can apply for a bursary but please discuss this with the Registrar prior to application, as it will involve a financial assessment.
When the time comes to discuss your child’s Senior School options we will consider the schools best suited for your child. Your child will have excelled. The additional experiences and support in their specialised area across the two years will ensure a large supporting portfolio to present at scholarship meetings. We have an excellent success rate on gaining scholarships in Senior Schools and will support you throughout the application process.
Find Out More
Please contact the registrar on: asymonds@tockingtonmanorschool.com for more information. Existing pupils as well as new pupils can apply to the Pathway Programme.
