We are writing to let you know about a small change to the way that some of our Post-16 courses will be delivered from next week.
From next week, students in our very smallest classes will move to a model comprising eight timetabled teaching hours each week alongside one directed study period. During this directed study time, students will work independently on carefully planned tasks set by their specialist teachers, building on and extending the learning that takes place in lessons.
Independent study is a fundamental part of successful A-level learning and an important skill for higher education and future employment. For students in very small teaching groups, this approach is not new and has previously enabled us to maintain a broad and ambitious curriculum offer while supporting students to become increasingly confident and independent learners.
We want to reassure students and families that the quality of teaching, specialist expertise and access to support will remain unchanged. Students will continue to be taught by their subject specialists, will have access to the same high-quality resources and guidance, and will receive carefully planned learning that prepares them for success in their examinations and beyond. We are confident that this adjustment will not negatively affect students’ progress and will continue to monitor outcomes closely.
The courses affected by this change are:
- Computer Science
- Politics
- French
- Graphics
- German
- Music
- Drama
We understand that any change to established routines may prompt questions, and we value the close partnership we have with our students and families. If you would like to discuss these arrangements or have any concerns, please do not hesitate to get in touch. We will be very happy to talk through the changes and provide any reassurance or clarification that may be helpful.
Thank you, as always, for your continued support.
Kind regards,
Kelly Heaton – Deputy Headteacher
Glenn Wright – Assistant Headteacher
