School Life

Following our last ISI Inspection a full curriculum review has taken place in the senior school. The main focus of the review was to address the issues raised by the Inspection which related to time available for teaching in some subjects and the breadth and balance offered by the senior curriculum.
We know that the time spent in developing the new structure has addressed the issues raised by the Inspection and will have a positive effect on teaching and learning in the school and the overall educational experience for our pupils.

Changes made:
• All lessons will now be one hour in length
• The number of GCSE subject choices available for Year 10 has been increased from two to three, making a minimum of nine GCSE subjects.
• New subjects introduced at GCSE - Design Technology and Drama
• Science is being offered as dual certification or three separate sciences
• All pupils will take the European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL) qualification in IT
• Time allocated to textiles and art at Key Stage 3 (11-14yrs) has been increased
• Time allocated to Key Stage 4 (14-16yrs) PE has been increased
• Enrichment has been embedded into the timetable for Years 7 and 8.

1. Red Point System
Each pupil, U3 - U5, is provided with a card on which to collect red points. These are awarded for good work, good behaviour, effort, co-operation, appearance, etc. When sufficient red points have been collected the following awards are given
Senior School
5 cards - Blue Award
10 cards - Silver Award
15 cards - Gold Award
20 cards - Ash Pendant
The Gold awards and Ash Pendant are presented at Senior Speech Day.

2. House System
To foster co-operation and competition, pupils in the senior school are divided into Houses - York, Tudor and Lancaster. House competitions are run in sporting and various other school activities with a House Festival once every 3 years. This gives students the opportunity to develop leadership skills and display their talents, pupils work together and through co-operation gain skills and hopefully successes which will increase their confidence and self-esteem.

3. Tutor System
In Senior School, each child has her own tutor who will be on hand to encourage and monitor her development throughout their time at Highclare. Any weaknesses or problems are discussed and corrective action taken. It is hoped that this system will encourage all pupils to make the most of the opportunities available to them.

4. GSA Website

The first website dedicated to providing information, expert opinion and useful advice on all aspects of raising and educating happy, fulfilled girls can be accessed by clicking here