We hope and intend that the Post 16 years will be greatly enjoyable, and a time for further academic and personal development and increasing maturity. The willingness to accept and share responsibility (for example as a Prefect) and to set a good example to younger students is essential. The comparative freedom of Post 16 life means that Post 16 students are greatly envied and often admired by the rest of the school; their pattern of behaviour, and their general attitude, if responsible, mature and positive, can be a great influence for good in the whole school community.

What do we expect in return? Well, certainly hard work, punctuality, smart appearance and regular attendance. We welcome contributions to the life of the school in sports, drama, music, societies, debating, charity fund raising and many other areas. We need Prefects to assist in maintaining good order and discipline and to act as lower school Tutor Group Prefects. We also welcome help in lessons with younger students and have a successful Year 7 prefect team.

Qualifications are extremely important in today’s competitive world, and primarily, Post 16 students are coming back to school to obtain further qualifications. All AS, A-level and Level 2 courses require consistent hard work both at home and at school so that 15 hours each week, in addition to timetabled lessons, is a minimum guideline for most students. Those who fall behind in the early stages may find that catching up later on is too much for them, particularly if they have part-time jobs. Establishing a consistent pattern of work is, therefore, very important from the start of the Post 16 studies.

Reviews, Reports and Parent Consultation Evenings continue as before, but a much greater emphasis is placed up on an individual’s willingness to work and learn without constant reminders. Students need to be self-disciplined if they are to maximise their potential. A formal personal tutoring programme also supports Post 16 students.