Essential Guide 2023 - North Essex

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 1 Contact our Admissions Team to book a visit Top independent school in Suffolk INCLUDING OUR COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE TO SCHOOL OPEN EVENINGS SEPT 2023 ESSEX

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 2 Join us for our Prep and Senior School Open Days. Family tours also available, to find out more please visit stjos.co.uk or email [email protected] stjos.co.ukSPACE TO THRIVE Whole College Open Morning Saturday 16 September Sports Information Evening Wednesday 27 September Year 7 Information Evening Tuesday 3 October Sixth Form Information Evening Wednesday 11 October Snapshot Mornings Friday 22 & 29 September Friday 6 & 13 October Independent day and boarding school for boys and girls aged 2–19. Nursery open all year round. We take happiness seriously At St Joseph’s we support the intellectual, spiritual, physical and emotional growth of every student. Children who thrive are the happiest of all.

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 3 Welcome Welcome to the promising month of September, where anticipation fills the air once again. We are thrilled to present the much-awaited 18th edition of “The Essential Guide to Schools,” a true favourite among our readers. In this latest edition, we’ve packed together a whopping 64 pages, all geared towards guiding you through the crucial next phase of your child’s educational journey: the transition to secondary school. Focused on the exciting upcoming open events of schools and colleges, our Essential Guide is here to support you in the daunting task of selecting the perfect school or sixth form for your child. Whether it’s a cutting-edge virtual open event, a tailor-made tour, or a classic school open day, rest assured, we’ve got you covered. Our heartfelt appreciation goes out to our dedicated readers and our esteemed advertisers. This year, the response from schools has been nothing short of spectacular. We extend a warm thank you to everyone who has played a part in this endeavour. It’s important to note that with each new school that joins us, our magazine becomes an even richer source of information. Here’s to another year of exciting possibilities! Lessons in Dyslexia 52 What to Look for at Open Evening 28 Talking to your kids about Mental Health 12 More than ever, mental health is a growing issue in our children and young people Choosing A Secondary School 20 Some tips and advice about things to consider Exam Nightmares 44 A student’s view Easing Transitions to Secondary School 36 Moving from primary to secondary school can be an exciting but daunting experience www.focusmediauk.com To book space within The Essential Guide Please email your requirements to: [email protected] ABC or 123 4 The GCSE Grading System explained When it comes to enrolling students, secondary schools excel at showcasing their strengths and attributes What are the signs?

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 4 The General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) grading system is used in the United Kingdom to assess the academic performance of students typically aged 14 to 16. GCSEs are taken in a range of subjects and are an important part of the education system in the UK, as they provide a foundation for further education or employment. As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, the GCSE grading system underwent a major reform in England in 2017, transitioning from the traditional letter-based grading system (A*, A, B, C, etc.) to a numerical grading system (9 to 1), with 9 being the highest and 1 being the lowest. Here’s a breakdown of the numerical GCSE grading system: Grade 9: This is the highest achievable grade and represents exceptional performance. It is considered to be higher than the previous A* grade. Grade 8: Also considered an excellent grade, it is often described as being equivalent to an A*. Grade 7: Equivalent to the previous A grade, this grade is a very strong indication of a student’s competence in the subject. Grade 6: Comparable to the previous high B and low A grades, this grade still signifies a good level of understanding and knowledge. Grade 5: Considered a strong pass and equivalent to a high C and low B grade. Grade 4: This grade is known as a standard pass, and it’s similar to the previous grade C. It’s often the minimum required for progression to further education or employment. Grade 3: This grade indicates a basic understanding of the subject matter but is below the standard required for further education. Grade 2: Still a pass, but at a lower level, indicating limited understanding of the subject. Grade 1: This is the lowest grade and is awarded for a very limited level of achievement. It’s important to note that in addition to the new numerical grading system, GCSEs have also been redesigned to be more challenging and focused on end-of-course exams rather than coursework. The reforms aim to raise the standards and better prepare students for higher education or the workforce. Keep in mind that grading systems and educational policies can change, so I recommend checking with official sources, such as government education websites or the specific educational institution, for the most up-to-date information on the GCSE grading system. ABC or 123? The GCSE Grading System

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 5 OPEN EVENINGS

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 6 Anglo European School Anglo European School is a genuinely distinctive and unique comprehensive school committed, for almost 50 years, to achieving the highest academic success and unrivalled educational experience through its exceptional international curriculum. A broad and balanced education with a unique enrichment offer, including an impressive visits and exchanges programme, produces independent, open minded and confident global citizens who are able to communicate effectively in a variety of languages from the eight currently taught, leading to outstanding personal development and outcomes. Situated in the village of Ingatestone, with excellent rail and road connections, children from Essex, London, Suffolk, Hertfordshire and abroad join local children who value its internationalist philosophy and curriculum. All Year 7 students take two languages from French, Spanish and German with the exception of those studying Chinese who take this subject only. In Year 8, students have the option of studying Russian, Japanese, Italian and an extra-curricular Arabic offer. The Anglo is currently one of the highest performing comprehensive schools in the country with regard to the English Baccalaureate, evidencing its expertise across the breadth of its curriculum offer. The Sixth Form is outstanding and has been awarded the highest Ofsted grades for over 20 years. It was the first state school in Britain to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma and the International Baccalaureate Career Programme. It also provides the opportunity to study A Levels or A Levels with selected parts of the IB Diploma (AIB). All students have the opportunity to study a language giving students an unrivalled opportunity to combine qualifications to suit their needs and make them stand out in the global employment marketplace. In addition to the language specialism, the ‘Anglo European School International Enterprise Academy’, in Partnership with the Peter Jones Enterprise Academy, provides a centre of excellence for students studying Business, Economics and Financial Studies courses. Furthermore, a partnership with Paris Saint-Germain Football Academy enhances the study of languages with sporting excellence. A remarkable feature of the school is its visits and exchanges programme with over 15 partner schools worldwide. Over 700 students every year take part in the exchange programmes and extended study visits in Europe, China and Japan. Sixth Form students also have the opportunity to undertake international work experience in Madrid, Frankfurt or Paris, to visit the United Nations in Geneva or to visit the historic cities of Krakow and Vienna. Their Open Evening for entry into Year 7 and their International Sixth Form is on Thursday 28th September from 16:30 to 20:00. For more details, and to book a morning tour, visit the Open Evening page at www.aesessex.co.uk/admissions/open-evening/.

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Essential Guide Magazine 2023 8 The Appleton School The Appleton School - Achieving Excellence A School of Opportunity We give students of all abilities the confidence to succeed The Appleton School offers a fantastic opportunity for our children and young people to learn and develop. We are a community that nurtures individual excellence. We are a mixed fully comprehensive school for students aged 11-18 and are committed to providing the best possible foundations for adult life. All members of the school community are expected to achieve their full potential and derive pride from their achievements. In return, we are dedicated to developing each of them into successful, compassionate future leaders. A community where every child matters Our Quality of Teaching, Learning and Assessment was graded “Good” by Ofsted. We offer an amazingly wide choice of courses that ensures we cater for every learner. Every student is offered guidance and advice on which courses best suits them. Enriching Lives beyond the Classroom Our students enjoy a rich programme of activities, events, sports, and clubs that will give them skills and interests for the rest of their lives. Over 100 clubs and activities from computer and Science clubs, to charity fund raising and sports training take place every week. Our Learning Resource Centre with access to our multi-media computer suites is open before and after school. Our art rooms are open – and always busy – every lunch time. We have a proud tradition of Performing Arts. Students can learn any instrument they want or join our wind band, orchestra, jazz band and choir or one of our pop groups and ensembles. We have a wellequipped drama studio and stage a major production every year. Sport also flourishes at our school for students of all abilities. We run a lively programme of educational visits both in the UK and abroad to enrich the curriculum. Support to Succeed Our school is a welcoming, safe and happy place where students thrive. Our staff work in partnership with parents to develop every child to fulfil their potential. We give our students all the support they need to succeed in whatever path they choose. Each student has a tutor who monitors their progress and well-being. We also have a range of other support services, which include onsite counsellors, community mentors and education welfare officers. Creating tomorrow’s leaders - we prepare our students for a successful working life All our students learn invaluable business and enterprise skills. Our partnerships with national and local firms enrich our teaching. All students take part in Industry Days run by visiting companies and a variety of Business Activity Days. All students from Years 7 to 13 are given extensive careers guidance. Most of our students go on to further study. All leave us proud and confident of their abilities, enthusiastic about their future and motivated to do well. Each of them has unique talents and abilities. We believe they are all capable of realising their dreams. We warmly encourage you to visit our school and look forward to welcoming you at our upcoming Open Evening Events: For further details: 01268 794215 | www.theappletonschool.org Year 6 Open Evening Thursday 21st September Sixth Form Open Evening Thursday 19th October

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 9 OPEN EVENING Thursday 19th October 2023 Please check the website for the latest details. www.theappletonschool.org OPEN EVENING Thursday 21st September 2023 Please check the website for the latest details. www.theappletonschool.org Appleton School The

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 10 Castle View School At Castle View School we are passionate about our school community, pursuing excellence to be the best that we can be. We are a real community and we value academic success in the same way as we value the need to develop every child into a caring, confident individual who can actively give back to their community: now and in the future. We put a strong emphasis on equipping our children with the values and skills that will help them succeed both in their studies and as a human being. Taking Notice We encourage everyone to take notice, whether that is about themselves or others and to be ready to make a decision: if they notice someone needs help - we want them to act, instinctively; if they notice their progress is not where it could be - we encourage them to be decisive and do something about it. Seeking Solutions Our whole community, including our work with parents and carers is about finding solutions and working together. Everyone is treated equally and respected for who they are and what they bring to our community - we value diversity and difference. We encourage everyone: staff, students, families and governors to take ownership for their part in making the school what it is and also what it is capable of being. Developing Integrity We expect members of our community to be present, in the moment and actively engaged - willing and ready to embrace challenge and improvement. We seek to develop integrity in our young people - they will have high aspirations of themselves and others and be able to do the right thing at all times. Choosing the right school for your child is a crucial decision and we would warmly encourage you to visit our school and see for yourself the school described above and what it is that makes Castle View School the right choice for you.

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 11 OPEN EVENING Thursday 28th September 4pm - 7.30pm Visit our website for more information on our Open Evening @castleview_school @SchCastleView Castle View School, Foksville Road, Canvey Island, Essex, SS8 7FH “As well as valuing academic success, we strive for every child to become a wellrounded, caring and confident individual who plays a part in their community” Mr Steve Durkin BA (Hons), MTL, NPQH Headteacher

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 12 Talking To Your Kids About Mental Health More than ever, mental health is a growing issue in our children and young people. Is there any surprise? With constant political flux, a pandemic and a cost of living crisis, our children are undeniably affected, whether they fully understand what is going on, or not. Throw into the mix the challenges that come with hormones, moving to secondary school and the tumultuous world that is growing up, and it’s clear that our children are facing a challenging world. While these challenges are undeniable, we’re fortunate to also live in a world where discussions around mental health and mental illness are growing. Let’s join in the effort to support our young people by ensuring we talk to our children about their wellbeing. At a loss on where to start? We’ve put together a guide on how to approach chats about mental health with your children. If you or your child need help urgently The first port of call is your GP - but if you have an immediate concern about your child’s safety, don’t hesitate to call emergency services to access support. The NHS advises the following helplines are available if support is required urgently: For children to reach out themselves directly, there are also: You can find your local 24 hour NHS mental health helpline here:https://www.nhs.uk/servicesearch/mental-health/find-an-urgent-mentalhealth-helpline Helpline Childline Childline 0800 1111 999 999 in a life threatening emergency Papyrus/HopelineUK Call 0800 068 41 41 Text 07786 209697 9am to 10pm weekdays and 2pm to 10pm on weekends Papyrus 116 123 Samaritans 24 Hour Line 116 123 “SHOUT” ‘SHOUT’ 24 hour text support, text “SHOUT” to 85258 CALM CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably, open daily . 5pm - Midnight 0800 58 58 58 )

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 13 It can feel overwhelming when facing tough conversations about mental health, but the best place to begin is working out where your child is currently at. Firstly we’re going to talk about supporting your child if they aren’t overtly struggling. If you aren’t seeing any major warning signs of mental illness, then a good place to start is open conversations, and connection. The first place to begin is with a conversation. You know your child best, and whether they will respond better to a sit down chat or a casual conversation. If things seem okay, a casual conversation may be your best bet. This could be on a walk to school, while kicking a football around, or even while eating dinner. General starters: • How are you feeling? • What do you want to talk about? • What was the best and worst part of your day? • If you could start today over again, what would you do differently? • What did you do today that you were most proud of? Serious starters: • What was the biggest problem you had today? • Do you want to talk about what’s going on? • How can I support you through [issue]? • Is there anything you need from me? Space, time to talk, time to do something fun… Fun starters: • What’s your favourite song at the moment? Would I like it? • If you were an animal, which one would you be? • If your life was a movie, which would it be? • What’s your favourite thing about school, and why? • If an alien landed in your class today, what would you have been embarrassed for them to see? Young Minds also suggests using ‘encouragers’ to support your conversation: • I love you, nothing can change that • You can talk to me, I’m here for you With all the conversations and activities in the world, sometimes further help is needed. The NHS advises that the following can be signposts for declining mental health in children and young people: • significant changes in behaviour • ongoing difficulty sleeping • withdrawing from social situations • not wanting to do things they usually like • self-harm or neglecting themselves It can feel overwhelming addressing mental health with your children - but it doesn’t have to be. With the right support and resources, you can be the first line of support to help your child stay mentally well. We hope this guide has helped - make sure to access the support available to you. Opening up When to get help Final thoughts • If you need to talk to someone else, that’s okay too • If you talk to me about what’s worrying you, I can do my best to help • Even if I don’t understand, know that I want to • We’re going to get through this together If your child does open up about how they’re feeling, Young Minds suggests: • Validating their feelings • Thanking them for sharing • Let them know you love them • Ask them if they need support • Spend time together • Let your child know about helplines and resources they can use • Remind them this will pass • Avoid conversations when your child is highly distressed

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 14 The James Hornsby School At the James Hornsby School we pride ourselves on our student focused family ethos and our strong academic drive on achievement. Our curriculum aims to meet the individual needs of each student to ensure that they make excellent progress. We strive for our learners to achieve the English Baccalaureate and expect that high proportions of students will study and achieve across these curriculum areas. We provide a structured, disciplined working environment in which every learner receives high-quality teaching and achieves their full potential. We have high expectations of our learners and ensure they are able to thrive in their learning environment and achieve the success and outcomes they deserve. We are one of few schools in the local area to have a swimming pool, and as such, every child is expected to swim and develop a vital life skill in doing so. We ensure that our students are well equipped with the resources, equipment and facilities they need to be successful in their learning. We believe that enrichment opportunities are an entitlement of every learner. We provide a wide range of enrichment activities which develop interests and hobbies, for example, Key Stage 3 students have the opportunity to access free peripatetic lessons and year 9 students are able to access the Duke of Edinburgh award. We have opportunities for learners such as STEM, Brilliant Club, MyTutor, Jack Petchey Speak Out, Children’s University. Our provisions enriches the everyday learning experience to ensure our learners achieve the best possible outcomes. We ignite hope, drive ambition and advance life chances. We are extremely proud of the strong family ethos we have built which focuses on developing personal character, resilience, independence and removing barriers to success. We embrace student and parent voice to ensure we are able to make changes and developments in the best interest of our learners and our school. Our ethos ensures a safe and happy environment where students are at the centre of all we do. We have highly effective safeguarding structures in place and work in collaboration with parents and carers to ensure high levels of attendance, welfare and outcomes. Our pastoral system is quite unique, whereby learners are attached to a “College” this system encourages cross-year group friendships through vertical tutoring. The pastoral “College” system is made up of a member of the senior leader team, a head of college and a non-teaching achievement officer. Each college has a student representative team that reflects that of the school senior leadership team. Each college also has allocated well-being and environment representatives. My team and I are looking forward to you being part of the James Hornsby Family.

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 15 OPEN DAY From 3:30pm on Thursday 21st September www.jameshornsby.essex.sch.uk Headteacher: Mrs T Nicholls, BSC (Hons) Email: [email protected] The James Hornsby School, Leinster Road, Laindon, Basildon, Essex, SS15 5NX

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 16 Oakfields Preparatory School At Oakfields Preparatory School, located in Upminster and surrounded by seven acres of beautiful grounds, we are committed to providing a nurturing and stimulating environment for our pupils, aged 3 to 11. We deliver a bespoke and heightened curriculum that upholds high academic standards, while never losing sight of the importance of allowing children to be children and embracing their youth. Our mission is to develop and nurture every child’s individual abilities and talents, instilling a love of learning in an environment that supports their overall well-being. We firmly believe that learning should be an exciting and enjoyable experience. Therefore, through our innovative approach to teaching and learning, we introduce new strategies and methods in our classrooms. We are proud of our reputation for enabling our pupils to achieve exceptional results, equipping them with excellent preparation for the 11+ and entry to outstanding Senior Schools. We strive for excellence in all aspects of education because we understand the significance of academic achievement alongside the holistic development of each child, fostering their caring nature and building their confidence. We offer an energetic and diverse range of extra-curricular activities including Music, Sport and the Arts, dedicated to increasing learning opportunities as well as providing parents with the wrap around care and holiday cover they require for busy lives. At Oakfields, our nurturing ethos and high expectations play a pivotal role in instilling a strong moral compass in our pupils. They readily embrace our core values, which are deeply ingrained in our school culture. By encouraging students to give their best, respect one another, and adapt positively to change, we shape them into responsible individuals who embody integrity. In our school, pupils actively participate in establishing the classroom rules, fostering a sense of pride and commitment to upholding them. This collaborative approach promotes a harmonious community where everyone works together to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. We invite you to visit Oakfields Preparatory School during one of our open days. You will have the opportunity to witness our warm and nurturing environment first-hand, experiencing our school in action. Our aim is to ensure that your visit to Oakfields leaves you with a positive feeling about who we are and what we could offer your child, so you are able to make an informed decision about the next steps for your child.

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 17 JOIN US FOR AN OPEN DAY Taking place on Thursday 28 September Thursday 09 November To book your place, please contact us by email: [email protected] www.oakfieldspreparatoryschool.co.uk @oakfieldsschool @oakfieldsslt “Pupils of all ages develop high levels of self-awareness, self-confidence and resilience within a close-knit, nurturing, family environment.”

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 18 Woodlands School Aspiration, Resilience, Opportunity, Excellence, is our ethos. These four pillars underpin all we do and drive us forward as one learning community. We have the privilege to be able to teach and learn, as an 11-16 Academy, in a £26 million building. Woodlands School is proud to serve the people of Basildon and we are constantly striving to be better. We are focused on ensuring academic excellence for all our youngsters, allowing them the opportunity to thrive at further and higher education. We encourage all of our youngsters to have the highest of aspirations and look to equip them with all the tools they need to become even more resilient. We offer the widest opportunities to ensure excellence becomes a habit. Our expectation is that all at Woodlands School work hard and are self-motivated. All are to lead their own learning, be polite and respectful. Our boundaries are clear and they support all in ensuring they can maintain the highest standards. We will provide a wealth of opportunities to learn in and beyond the classroom. Adding cultural capital and ensuring experiences develop the whole child. WHAT WE WANT FOR OUR PUPILS Be aspirational • All pupils will be well-informed, fully prepared to take the next steps in their education or training. Pupils are encouraged to strive towards Russell Group universities, higher apprenticeships and high-level employment, both in London and further afield. • All pupils will gain the cultural capital to ensure they are rounded, well-informed individuals who have seized the same cultural opportunities as their peers from the wide range of educational backgrounds. • All pupils, especially those with Special Educational Needs or Disabilities, will be equipped with the vital life skills required to flourish and excel in adult life. Be resilient • All pupils will be emotionally and physically healthy, equipped to keep themselves safe in the modern, digital world. • All pupils will possess the depth of character and resilience to cope with set-backs and rise to challenges, whatever life throws at them. Take opportunities • All pupils will be highly literate and numerate, fully confident in applying these core skills to new contexts. • All pupils will be excellent orators, equipped with the impressive communication skills so sought after by high-level employers. • All pupils will take opportunities to fully immerse themselves in the wider life of the school, engaging in a range of enriching activities that both help foster positive relationships with peers and adults and take them out of their comfort zone. Be excellent • All pupils will excel in a wide range of subjects, with a strong academic core that supports their academic, creative, technical or vocational ambitions. • All pupils will become experts in their subjects and possess the metacognitive skills to continually improve their knowledge and skills. • All pupils will read widely and appreciate the value of lifelong learning. Welcome once again to our school. David Wright Head Teacher

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 19 ASPIRATION, RESILIENCE, OPPORTUNITY, EXCELLENCE “Aspiration, Resilience, Opportunity, Excellence” Woodlands School, Woodlands Approach, Basildon, Essex, SS16 5BA www.woodlandsschool.org 01268 282146 Open Evening 28th September 2023 4.00pm until 8.00pm Contact Reception for an appointment Open Week 2nd -28th October 2023 9.15am (2.15pm Mon Only) See school website for details Aptitude Testing 7th October 2023 9.00am Contact Reception for an appointment Tours Every Friday from 8th Sept 2023 with David Wright, Head Teacher 9.15am

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 20 School performance for grades: exam results Before your research: questions to consider Where to get answers Before you visit a school, it’s vital to do your research. This covers both research on what your child is looking for, and the schools themselves. Before looking at the local schools available, it’s a good idea to start with thinking about what makes your child tick. What are they looking for in a school? Here are some questions to consider that will help you when narrowing down which schools suit them best: Once you have a list of questions to get answered, it’s time to think about where you’ll find this vital information. A good first place to start is looking at government measurements of a school’s performance and success. Let’s start with examination league tables, which are published annually, detailing the numbers of students entered for different subjects and the percentage of students gaining each grade. Schools will publish these results on their website, usually giving highlights and key positive points. It’s your job here to read between the lines and think about what might have impacted those figures, and what then means for the students. If, for example, a school has 200 students on roll, and only 170 students are entered for maths and English GCSEs, what percentage does this work out to? How does it compare to entrances for other subjects and other schools? Is it a good or a bad thing that 30 students weren’t entered? Many schools may only choose to enter students who they are certain will pass - while others may be keen to enter as many children as possible with the hope that all children get a chance at success, if the right supports are in place. Which of these matters to you more? Second to numbers of students entered into GCSE examinations is looking at the percentage of students achieving 5 GCSEs at grades 9-4, Choosing a Secondary School When it comes to choosing a secondary school, there are lots of factors to consider. From subject specialisms through to location and extracurricular activities, it’s a great idea to reflect on what makes a school the right choice for your child. We’ll break down our tips and advice on this in this article. • What are your child’s favourite subjects? Does the school have a good reputation for these? • What are their favourite activities or hobbies? Does the school have after school clubs or support to help them achieve their potential in these? • How far are you willing to travel, and what travel methods would you need to use to get to this school? • Does your child have any additional support requirements, such as learning differences, mental health needs or physical needs? How will these be supported in the school you are looking at? Once you have thought about particular questions to ask in specific relation to your child, it’s a good idea to think about generalised school factors that will impact your decision. The next questions you’ll want to ask include: • What are the school’s exam results? • What subjects are offered in the school, such as languages, sports, and music classes? • What is the Ofsted report like? • What is staff turnover like? • How big is the school? How many students are on roll? • What is the behaviour management like? • Are students happy, and do they enjoy their education? • What is the school’s anecdotal reputation locally?

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 21 Another source of detailed information is a school’s Ofsted report. With an Ofsted report, you’re able to get a great overview of a school’s teaching and learning as well as their provision for emotional support and extracurricular activities. Ofsted reports are usually uploaded within a few weeks of inspection, and the more up to date the better. Look at the details of how staff work with children, how subjects are taught, and how schools provide for the rounded needs of learners. What are schools doing well, and what do they need to improve on? Does any of the information offered ring alarm bells, or wave giant green flags? Reports will be broken up into subject and teaching information as well as holistic provision and safeguarding, so go through with a fine toothed comb and see what you find. Information on staff turnover is occasionally also referenced - this may also give you indicators as to how the school is doing, and whether staff enjoy working there. Remember to keep in mind the questions you have specific to your child, such as extracurricular activities, individual needs and talent. If school size and class sizes are important to you, Ofsted reports are a great place to find out this information too. Details of the number of students on roll will be included - and these should give you a picture of the school’s size. It’s worth remembering that a report more than a year or so old may be out of date, as schools typically complete a long round of improvements immediately following an Ofsted inspection. If you’re particularly concerned about an area of a report, you can always contact the school and ask to speak to a member of staff about how an issue or concern has since been addressed. Sometimes this information is already made readily available on a school website, particularly if there were clear guidelines from an inspector on what needed to be done. All this being said, going to visit a school in person can’t be beaten. Make sure to book in to as many open days as you can, and go prepared with the list of questions we suggested at the beginning of this article. Make sure to visit the teachers and departments that most reflect your child’s interests to be sure that they’ll meet your child’s needs. Ask about extracurricular activities, specialist equipment and departments like sciences or technology, and support for particular talents like music or sport. School achievements in teaching, learning and student support: Ofsted reports Nothing beats an in person visit… the government’s gold standard for GCSE results. How many students achieved this? Furthermore - can you see what particular subjects students achieved these 5 GCSEs in? Typically students require English and maths GCSEs to go forward into many further education courses. If students gained 5 GCSEs, but this didn’t include English and maths, does this truly meet a gold standard? All schools must report their rates of students achieving a pass (4) in English and maths because of this - so it’s a good idea to investigate these rates as well as the typical ‘5 GCSE’ mark.

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 22 If you can, try visiting the school during the day to observe how the children behave. Do they seem happy? Excited to be at school? What is discipline and behaviour management like? Do teachers and students seem friendly and respectful, or too authoritative? Is the discipline enough for you, or too much? How do schools manage common issues like bullying? All these questions are great things to watch out for. Once you nail down a few specific schools that you and your child really like, try visiting at different times of day to get a really good gauge of the school’s usual running. If your child has any additional learning needs, it’s also a great idea to chat to each school about their provision and support for these areas. Do their responses feel enough to you? Another great tip here if you are waiting to visit schools in person is doing a short ‘drive by’. Park up near the school near pick up or drop off, and see what children are like as they go in or leave. Do they seem excited to go into school? How are they behaving? Are there any teachers visible at the end of the day, ensuring students leave safely and happily, or is it a mass exodus without much control? What is the school transport like - are children rammed into buses or is there a calm entrance onto after school transport? All these factors help you build up a picture of the school and its overall daily running. Finally, asking your local community about the reputation of the school, and the students’ experiences, is a great way to get a holistic picture of what the school is like. What do local people feel the school offers them? Is it a pleasant addition to the local area, or do they have negative associations with it? If you know individuals locally who have children who have attended the school, why not ask how they find it? It’s worth taking this with a pinch of salt and recalling that some individuals will have strong opinions or negative experiences regardless of the school’s overall feel - but hearing a broad spectrum of recent experiences will certainly help you build a picture of what to expect. Ask them about how their child feels at school. Are they well supported? Is bullying an issue? Getting a student and parent’s perspective of how schools manage common issues can really help you make your decision. There’s a great deal to factor in when deciding what school is right for your child. By combining statistics, Ofsted reports, in person visits and lived experiences of students, you’ll get a great picture of how a school fits into what you’re looking for. Remember to ask as many questions as you can, and always follow your, and your child’s, instincts! We wish you the best of luck in finding the right school for your child - you are sure to find a good selection of schools listed in this issue, which will help you start your journey towards this exciting step in your child’s education. Ask around Final thoughts

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 23 Stock Rd, Billericay, Essex. CM12 0AR T: 01277 623070. www.stjohnsschool.net At St John’s School our ethos is based on traditional, inclusive values, including pupils’ personal development, outstanding academic achievement and personalised provision and support. We offer a caring and secure environment where our happy and hard-working pupils are taught in small classes by dedicated, experienced teachers. We have a stimulating, exciting and varied curriculum in order to foster a love of learning, so that every child can achieve their full potential. In turn, that helps prepare them for further education, the workplace, a worthwhile career and a successful life. Senior School pupils follow a broad curriculum culminating with GCSE courses including PE, Art, Drama, French, Spanish, Geography, History, Sociology, Music, Business Studies, Computing, Religious Studies, Statistics, and the traditional core subjects. From Year 9 onwards pupils can participate in the Duke of Edinburgh scheme as well as the Inspiring Digital Enterprise Award (iDEA). Our enrichment programme for Year 7 and Year 8 pupils provides the opportunity to study STEM, Theatre Skills and Business Enterprise. Our pupils benefit from the opportunity to perform in our annual school production and our music performances and participate in excursions and trips that support our curriculum. Call our Registrar today to book an open morning appointment or a personal tour and to discuss your child’s potential admission in September 2024. Register Now for Senior Entry September 2024 Telephone - 01277 623070 [email protected] | www.stjohnsschool.net St. John’s School

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 24 Maltings Academy Thank you for taking the time to learn more about Maltings Academy. We are a co-educational secondary academy set up to provide an excellent education for children in Witham where we teach our students to work collaboratively and develop mutual respect for their peers, their teachers and members of the wider community. We teach students to take responsibility for their own learning and become independent, which is key to their success. Our academy is a remarkable place to learn, providing an ambitious but happy and inclusive environment. As well as strong pastoral support, we offer a broad and balanced curriculum that allows all students to succeed and enjoy their learning journey. As part of the AET, a highly successful national group of academies, our students also benefit from wider opportunities and resources. At Maltings Academy, we have high expectations of our students of all starting points and abilities. For this reason, we offer a tailored learning experience so they can achieve beyond their potential, ensuring that students are challenged and supported equally in accordance with their needs. We are committed to deliver excellence to ensure we provide the youngsters of Witham a positive learning experience they will treasure and will lead them to greatness. We know that our students will leave us academically successful, but we also want them to be well-rounded individuals with a highly developed moral compass, ready to lead in their communities and beyond. We expect our students and staff to give nothing except their very best in pursuit of making a difference to their lives and the lives of others around them. Everyday, we guide students to be able to make a difference by being respectful of themselves and others, arriving at school with a readiness to learn and engage positively in their lessons and to develop and demonstrate resilience on their learning journey to becoming a generation we can all be proud of. I would encourage you to visit us on our open days and take the opportunity to chat to our students and teachers about their experiences here. It really is a wonderful community school, with committed staff and we would be delighted to welcome you.

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 25 OPEN EVENING Contact us for details on Our September Open Evening School tours available in early September, please contact the school for further details. 01376 512 911 [email protected] www.maltingsacademy.org COMMITTED TO DELIVER EXCELLENCE

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 26 OOPPEENN EEVVEENNIINNGG TThhuu 2 211 S Seepp 66ppmm -- 88ppmm CCoonnrraadd RRooaadd,, WWiitthhaamm,, EEsssseexx.. CCMM88 22SSDD ccoonnttaaccttuuss@@nneewwrriicckkssttoonneessaaccaaddeemmyy..oorrgg At New Rickstones Academy we have a real belief that everyone can succeed and we provide students with all the tools they require to do so. Our curriculum is designed to develop our 3 key drivers: Mastery, Character and Perspective. These 3 drivers provide a framework to deliver excellent learning, personal conduct and development, and pride in being part of our community. Mastery: Developing thinking from just simply understanding to expertise; students grow to be able to think creatively about problems and demonstrate a fluency of skills to apply in any context. They are ambitious and committed to their learning. Character: We expect far more from our students than just academic success. They will be confident and resilient and importantly, they will do the right thing, even when no one is looking. Perspective: Students get to experience life beyond the classroom and how they might fit into the wider world around them. Trips and extracurricular activities are varied, well attended, and provide students with memories for years to come. Everything we undertake is to allow students at New Rickstones Academy to be safe, to be happy, to be the best they can be, and most importantly to be proud to call this their school.

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 27 Open Evening: Thu 2 Nov 6pm - 8pm A Level and BTEC Courses In Partnership With FITC Football Academy

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 28 Presentations and Tours Student Engagement Prior Information and Registration You might have already received valuable insights into school selection and registration procedures. Adhering to the designated deadlines is crucial, but before making a significant decision, it’s essential to experience the school environment first-hand. We recommend visiting at least two secondary schools to facilitate comparisons, even if your child has a specific preference. The optimal time for such visits is during a school’s open evening. This article will outline what to focus on during your visit and how to evaluate whether a school aligns with your expectations. During the open evening, you’ll likely have the chance to attend a range of presentations, encompassing talks by subject specialists and details about extracurricular offerings such as sports or clubs. Leadership talks, especially by the headteacher, are also common. When attending these talks, pay attention to the educators’ demeanour. Do they radiate enthusiasm, a genuine attachment to the school, and a passion for their subjects? Are they involving students and providing real-life examples? These cues provide insights into the school’s ethos. Whenever feasible, aim to participate in presentations by the school’s governing body or Parents’ Association. Even if no formal presentation is scheduled, these representatives might be present, indicating the school’s emphasis on fostering relationships with parents and guardians. If they are absent, consider enquiring about their involvement with the school. Amidst the presentations, you’ll likely be guided on a school tour. These tours might be led by staff or senior students, or a combination of both. Don’t hesitate to ask questions during the tour, especially regarding resources, student comfort, and any curiosities you have about what you observe. If interaction is limited during the tour, jot down your questions for addressing later. Assess whether the school resonates with your child’s sense of belonging and affinity, which might not be immediately verbalized. In cases where tours are not structured, classrooms might be accessible for exploration, with staff available for discussions. Seize this opportunity to acquaint yourself with the school’s layout and atmosphere. Student perspectives can offer candid and captivating insights. Observe if students are involved in the open evening, giving tours or presenting subjects. Do they exhibit pride and enthusiasm for their education? Engaging them in conversation can provide crucial indicators of the school’s adherence to its principles. Initiate conversations with students, addressing topics such as homework, behaviour systems, their favourite subjects, overall feelings of safety and happiness, and available support for challenges. Their responses can trigger further exploration and guide your decision-making process. Pre-Event Sign-ups and Information Some schools offer advance sign-ups, potentially providing you with information about the school and the open evening’s schedule. Whether you receive this information in advance or on the event day, anticipate receiving a map and timetable for presentations to help navigate your visit and optimize your time. You may be offered a guided tour by staff members or even students. Additionally, various subject talks, year leads’ insights, and the headteacher’s address are typically part of the programme. Attending as many sessions as possible is advisable, with a focus on core subjects like English, Mathematics, and Science, as well as any subjects of particular interest to your child. Upon arrival, expect to encounter diverse displays showcasing various subjects and students’ work. Take a discerning look at these displays. Are they inclusive of different abilities and age groups? Do they reflect genuine student involvement and a passion for learning? What to Look for at an Open Evening When it comes to enrolling students for September intakes, secondary schools excel at showcasing their strengths and attributes. Open evenings offer an insightful opportunity to meet teachers, subject leads, and explore state-of-theart facilities. In this article, we’ll delve into the key aspects to observe during an open evening, helping you make an informed decision about the right school for your child.

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 29 Resource Allocation and Technological Integration Engaging with Staff The Crucial Considerations The school’s resources play a pivotal role in its educational environment. Evaluate the quality of resources, ranging from technology and furniture to stationery, sports equipment, and scientific tools. These physical assets offer insights into the school’s governance and external funding. While exploring various subjects, especially hands-on disciplines, scrutinize the displayed resources. Enquire about the frequency of resource utilisation and overall subject resourcing. Consider whether students across all age groups access high-quality resources and whether shared equipment is prevalent. Assess the equipment’s condition and maintenance. If the school specializes in a certain field, examine how allocated funding enhances relevant equipment. Technological integration is vital in today’s educational landscape. Evaluate the school’s technology, from computers to tablets. Enquire about the extent of technology’s role in learning – is it effectively integrated, or is it merely superficial? Student input can provide valuable perspectives on technology access and its impact on learning. Furthermore, assess the condition of school furniture. Are students using well-maintained, contemporary chairs and desks? The state of the furnishings can offer insights into the school’s overall upkeep. Engaging in one-on-one conversations with staff members provides a glimpse into the school’s dynamics. While modern equipment is important, the enthusiasm and contentment of the teaching and governing staff are irreplaceable. Interact with teachers, governors, leaders, and support staff to understand the school’s collaborative atmosphere. Conversations with educators of varying experience levels, from seasoned leaders to newly qualified teachers, can offer diverse insights. While school presentations offer insights into staffing, direct conversations provide a more comprehensive understanding. Engage teachers in core subjects and those aligned with your child’s interests. If your child requires specialised support, such as from a special education needs coordinator or a mental health professional, discuss their approach to nurturing student growth. Enthusiasm, passion, and pride in their work signal content staff, reflecting a positive school environment. Whilst exploring a potential school, similar to buying a new home, look beyond superficial aspects. Direct your attention to fundamental aspects: Does the school emanate positivity and joy? Do students and staff radiate enthusiasm, eager to share the school’s merits? These enquiries overshadow immaculate displays or resource-sharing scenarios. Above all, remember that what suits one student might not suit another. Enter the open evening with a clear understanding of your child’s needs and preferences. Prepare questions tailored to your child’s educational requirements, ensuring satisfactory answers before concluding. Involve your child throughout the process, as their perspective is invaluable. Best of luck in your school selection journey!

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 30 GLC Gateway Academy At The Gateway Academy, amazing staff, students, Governors, parents/carers and the community work relentlessly together to ensure our students are well rounded individuals who excel in every aspect of their lives. Our highest priority is to provide an outstanding learning environment for all of our students that is underpinned by our values of resilience, responsibility, compassion, aspiration and a true appreciation for learning. We have been congratulated by Ofsted for our outstanding curriculum that is specifically designed to support all of our students to reach their full potential in every aspect of their lives. From Computer Science and Engineering to Performing Arts and Physical Education, students are given the unique opportunity to develop according to their talents, interests and ambitions. We offer Saturday sports provision and there is every opportunity for our students to get involved in our extensive extra-curricular events. The Gateway family is unique and has enormous heart! Our pastoral care system is outstanding and offers students a range of support through their time at the Academy. We are incredibly proud of our strong family ethos and we urge people to come and experience the wonderful atmosphere for themselves. Our well-structured, disciplined working environment is calm and purposeful ensuring that all students have every opportunity to learn and succeed in all aspects of academy life. Teacher retention is above 85% at our Academy, we invest in our staff and use the most up-to-date, evidence-based methods for teaching. Our teachers are extremely committed, passionate professionals who know and love their subjects. Our teacher training programme is regarded as one of the very best. “Teachers know their pupils well and have a secure understanding of their needs. This combined by mutual respect, is ensuring that pupils make good progress from their starting points.” Ofsted 2019 The Grammar Band provision is for our higher attaining students in each year group. We expect our Grammar Band students to devour their learning and demand that they reach the highest levels of academic success. Testament to this are the 300 GCSE grades 7-9s our Grammar Band students have achieved in the last two years and their continuation to flourish beyond our Academy doors. Our students make exceptional progress at The Gateway Academy and are driven to succeed by our very well-established teaching staff. “The teachers are extremely helpful and friendly. I feel truly privileged to be a part of this Academy.” Student Leadership Team

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 31 THE GATEWAY ACADEMY OPEN DAY & EVENING Tours are available every Friday from 15 September 2023 until 20 October 2023 from 09:00 until 10:30 Pre-bookable Individual Family Tours: Saturday 16 September 2023 from 09:00 until 12:00 To book a tour please contact Miss O‘Dwyer on 01375 489000 or email: [email protected] WEDNESDAY 13 SEPTEMBER 2023 “I’ve been blown away by what l’ve seen at The Gateway Academy.” Secretary of State for Education “Teachers have high expectations .. enabling pupils to make good progress.” Ofsted Inspection 2019 www.theglc-gatewayacademy.org.uk Group Tours: 09:00 - 12:00 Open Evening: 18:00 - 20:00

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 32 We look forward to meeting you!

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 33 Respect, Resilience, Responsibility Cornelius Vermuyden School is a vibrant and distinctive learning community in which all the students receive the support, challenge and encouragement that they need to become successful, confident and mature young people who are wellprepared for life beyond school. Located on a beautiful site on Canvey Island and easily accessible to all parts of Essex, Southend and London, the school provides a secure and happy environment for positive and exciting learning experiences. SCHOOL OPEN DAY 23rd September 2023 | 10am - 1pm Cornelius Vermuyden School | Dinant Avenue | Canvey Island | Essex | SS8 9QS Tel: (01268) 685011 | Email: [email protected] | www.corneliusvermuyden.com Headteacher: Mr I Hockey BA (Hons) MSc NPQH NPQEL

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 34 The Basildon Academies The Basildon Academies offer our students the unique opportunity to begin their education with us at our Key Stage 3 Lower Academy and finish it at our Key Stage 4 & 5 Upper Academy. Our Key Stage specialist sites give our students age-appropriate curriculum choices, support, challenge and enrichment. The Basildon Lower Academy offers a unique model of education. We have a model of separate ‘schools’ for each year group. Each individual year group has specialist learning environments, teaching teams and pastoral support teams, with physical spaces separate from other year groups. Within each year group ‘school’ we have dedicated staff that are consistent and become experts in their students. This model allows students a more gradual transition from primary into secondary school. The academy day is structured to ensure that each year group ‘school’ change lessons and take lunch and breaks independently from one another. This model supports us in building strong, positive relationships, consistency, and setting high and clear expectations. Our dedicated team works together with parents and carers, governors and our wider community to ensure that each student develops the knowledge, skills and independence to achieve. We believe that there are no limits to what they can learn. Every student has the right to the very best possible learning experiences and everyone can succeed. We recognise the power and impact that quality enrichment can have on young lives and minds. Our enrichment programme is an essential and valuable part of our school day. All students engage in our daily enrichment programme as part of their core curriculum. Our enrichment model supports a ‘Passion for Learning’ in Key Stage 3, a ‘Passion for Purpose’ in Key Stage 4 and a ‘Passion for Life’ in Key Stage 5. Our enrichment curriculum builds student resilience, selfesteem, sense of belonging and love of learning. Our Sixth Form offers personalised curriculum pathways, tailored to individual needs and aspirations. Strong support networks alongside quality teaching ensure academic success and our students are best prepared for university or the workplace. We are determined to ensure that your child’s well-being, welfare, and progress both within and beyond the curriculum are fully supported and, we offer all our students experiences that are outstanding, broaden horizons and support a passion for life-long learning. Aspire Believe Achieve

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 35 The Basildon Lower Academy Thursday 5th October 5.00pm - 7.00pm Year 6 Open Evening www.basildonloweracademy.org.uk The Basildon Upper Academy Thursday 5th October 5.00pm - 7.00pm Sixth Form Open Evening www.basildonupperacademy.org.uk

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 36 Easing Transitions to Secondary School Just when you have got used to your little ones being at school, change is rearing its head again! Whether your child is in year five or six, the time is soon coming where your usual days of after school clubs, book bags and lunchboxes will be turning into school buses, ties and new friends! Whether we as parents are ready for our children to move on to secondary school is one thing - but in this article we’re thinking about the children themselves. Moving from primary to secondary school can be an exciting but daunting experience. At 10 and 11, children have got rather used to being the oldest, and certainly the bigger fish in a small pond. They’ve had one teacher for most subjects each year, and the same 30 children around them Monday to Friday. This is all they’ve known of school life, and suddenly, things are going to look very different. For many children this is a time of fun, but equally, a time of fear and emotional strain. The good news is there is a great deal we can do as parents to support our not so little ones in this big life step. Here we’ll share our top ideas for helping make this move an exciting one! Talking about it It might seem straightforward, but keeping an open dialogue about the move up to ‘big school’ is really important when it comes to supporting our children emotionally. This doesn’t need to be one, big, sit down at the dinner table chat, but a continuous conversation about upcoming change. When our children feel that the conversation is open at all times, they are much more likely to share their feelings with us. Here are some great questions to ask here and there to encourage children to share what is coming up for them. We think a combination of positive steered questions (what they are looking forward to) and more emotion based questions (what are they worried about) work well. • Have your friends or teachers talked about secondary school lately? • What are you looking forward to about secondary school? • Are you looking forward to visiting X school? • How do you think your uniforms will look? How is that different to primary school? On the run up… The best way to prepare most children for a big life change is thinking about the change long before it comes. Getting lots of discussion in and making the change feel positive is key to setting our children up for success when it comes to navigating moving to secondary school. Our two key tips here are open conversations, and prepping via visits.

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 37 Most secondary schools will offer open days, evenings and afternoons to prospective students. In the early days, you are likely to visit multiple schools to get a feel of what sits right with your family, and what choice will work best for your child/ren. Initial visits are great opportunities to gauge what your child is looking for in a school, and what kind of school sits right with them. It’s a great idea to maximise each opportunity when visiting schools to help your child prepare for this new stage, even if they decide a school isn’t for them. Giving them plenty of agency when looking around will help them feel empowered and in charge of their own future. Try talking about some key questions or must-haves beforehand to help your child make their own decisions about what will make a good school for them. Here are a few examples of prompts to give your child: • What are my favourite subjects at primary school? What are the teachers of that subject like at the schools I’m visiting? • What do I wish was different about primary school? Is that something that secondary school could offer me? • Is it important that schools have lots of after school clubs and sports available? Is my favourite club/sport covered? • What do the current students act like? Are they friendly/quiet/ outgoing? What would I like the people I go to school with to be like? • Do I feel comfortable at the school? • Are there any questions you would like to ask about secondary school? • What are you excited about for secondary school? • What subjects are you looking forward to learning about? • Is there anything you are worried about when you think about secondary school? • What are you thinking about most when it comes to secondary school? • What will you miss about primary school? Visits and familiarisation • Do I feel like the teachers and staff will make me feel supported and safe? • Does it feel like this school is fun, and I will enjoy learning there? • Are there lots of school trips for me to go on? • How will I get to this school? Will I need to take a bus, and am I ok with that? Once your child has selected their school, the next step is encouraging them to engage in as many further visits as possible. If school tours, summer clubs or sample lessons are available, these are a fantastic way for children to familiarise themselves with their new place of learning. They may even make a few new friends on the way. If the school has an attached leisure facility or sports area, why not try visiting this over the summer holidays to make the school setting a really familiar place?

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 38 The summer before… Preparing Practice A lot of what we fear is based on unknowns and uncertainties. While we can’t avoid all uncertainties when it comes to joining a new school, there is a lot we can do as parents to help our child feel prepared and ready for this exciting new start. The most important thing here is to keep on top of any letters or information schools send out in advance. This may give key information on uniforms, resources your child will need and any projects your child can complete over the summer. To make this a fun and exciting experience, encourage your child to have agency over what they need, and need to prepare. While as parents we have to have an overview, we’ll set up our children for success when we encourage them to make their own lists of what they need to prepare for the big move. Think everything from maths and science equipment to resources for new subjects like food technology and music. Alongside this, children usually need their own stationery unlike primary school - so make stocking up a fun, exciting experience! Uniform shopping can be much the same - encourage your child to work out what they will need each week, and go shopping together. They could even give you a fashion show when they get home! So your child has all their resources, knows when they start and is almost ready. The next step is to think about their new upcoming routine. If you can encourage your child to practise new steps like getting ready for the day and getting to school on time, this will pay dividends later on. A common focus of anxiety for new secondary school students is school transport. Previously school may have involved walking or perhaps a drop off and before school club. Many children used to a village setting may now need to take a bus to get to school which is further away from their home, so it’s a great idea to start preparing for this. Some children may have never caught a bus alone, so if you feel it’s safe to do so, now might be a good time for your child to practice! If you don’t feel comfortable letting your child go on public transport alone, why not board a bus one stop before them, but encourage them to board alone the next stop along, and pay for their fare? While chartered school buses will be slightly different, encouraging children to prepare mentally could really help them later on. Next, think about their usual routine of preparing for the day. If their new school is further away than their primary school, your child may need to get used to an earlier wake up time. Equally, while a lunchbox and book bag were the usual carry ons for a year 6, there will be a lot more to think about in preparation for a school day at ‘big school’. Once your child has all the books and equipment they need, why not encourage them to practise prepping their bag for different subjects, such as food technology, or prepping for set PE days with the right equipment? When the time comes… So, you’ve prepped, you’ve practised, and it’s time! Once your child starts secondary school, the focus moves to routine, and you guessed it - continuous conversations. While a child’s biggest routine - going to school - has suddenly changed, it’s vital to keep as much routine as possible outside of school hours. Keep up those family weekend rituals and their favourite after school activities. If they are missing old friends, support them to keep in touch if they want to. Beyond routines, keeping an open channel for sharing feelings is the biggest thing you can do to support your child’s emotional needs. Whether it’s during a car journey home or over dinner, keep checking in with how your child is getting on. Perhaps revisit the questions they asked when they were deciding what school to go to and reflect on how they feel school is playing out. Being a present and empathetic parent is the backbone to a child’s successful education and transition. You’ve got this parents!

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 39 St Jean-Baptiste De La Salle founded his first schools in the seventeenth century and his core Catholic principles run through all the work we do today. These Lasallian values make De La Salle School the perfect choice for all families in Basildon and the wider community. We strive every day to develop students academically, spiritually and pastorally to give them the skills to make them ready for the world we live in. Serving the community of Basildon and the surrounding area since 1972. Open Week for families interested in joining us in September 2024 will be Monday 25th to Friday 29th September 2023. Places are available by appointment only. Please contact the school office to book a place on 01268 281234. Follow us on twitter @dlsbasildon for the latest information. We are an inclusive Catholic school who welcome students from all faiths and none. Our modern facilities and exceptional open spaces are underpinned by traditional values and the highest quality teaching which lead to exceptional outcomes for students. By appointment only. Please contact the school office to book a place. 25th - 29th September 2023 We are an inclusive Catholic school who welcome students from all faiths and none. Serving the community of Basildon and the surrounding area since 1972 for families interested in joining us in September 2024. De La Salle School

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 40 Thurstable School ‘Building Knowledge, Growing Character’ A School of Excellence In the Summer of 2022 the GCSE results were “significantly above average” and in the top 20% of the country (Department for Education) and we are unashamedly clear that academic scholarship, reading and writing are at the heart of our curriculum. We have the wonderful Thurstable Loves To Read programme, all students read for 20 minutes a day, as well as our innovative Morning Meeting programme based upon cognitive science. Research Led Teaching and Learning We know that providing high quality teaching makes the biggest difference to student outcomes and we are determined to always make our best better as teachers and all members of staff have coaching sessions to improve their teaching practice. We are a nationally recognised StepLab hub for the quality of our Instructional Coaching programme and regularly have visitors from across the region and abroad. A School of Character Equally important to our ethos is growing character and one of our mantras is “true character is doing the right thing when no one is looking”. We believe that character is taught, caught and sought and are committed to providing as many opportunities for the students to make memories from foreign exchanges, musical productions, Duke of Edinburgh schemes and numerous sporting opportunities. Enrichment opportunities for all We are one of the very few Artsmark Gold secondary schools in Essex and run many events ranging from annual productions to evening musical soirees. In recent years, students have performed on stages such as Charter Hall, Disneyland and performed in Winter Christmas concerts as well as at the Mercury Theatre. Our students have the chance to enter national cheerleading competitions, perform a range of dances whilst also taking part in art exhibitions, public speaking and fashion shows. Sporting Success Sport plays a vital role in developing character and students enjoy a range of fantastic sporting facilities including a 4G outdoors pitch, a refurbished sports hall, climbing wall and gym facilities. We are very proud of our partnership with Colchester United FC and together run their community programme. Our VI Form Team won their league and were presented with their trophy at Wembley in front of 80,000 people. Pastoral Care We provide exceptional pastoral care for its students and parents can be reassured that their children are well looked after throughout their time at the school.Our Pastoral Hub Team provides additional support to individual students as well as running bespoke group workshops on a range of issues such as stress, anxiety, friendship and relationship issues, managing conflict and developing resilience. We also have a professionally qualified in school counselling team and also host student social workers who provide invaluable individual support to students in need of extra support. We welcome you to visit us during our school open evening on Thursday 21st September or Tuesday 17th October at our Sixth Form.

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 41 Sixth Form Tuesday 17 October 2023 6.00pm - 7.30pm Colchester United Boys Football College Programme training session for prospective students: 4.00pm - 5.30pm For information - email [email protected] OPEN EVENING For further details: Tel: (01621) 816526 E: [email protected] www.thurstable.co.uk Thurstable School ‘Building Knowledge, Growing Character’ Thursday 21 September 2023 5.30pm - 8.00pm The Headteacher’s talk will take place in the main hall at 5.30pm and 7.00pm Guided tours of the school will be available during the evening We look forward to welcoming you to Thurstable School OPEN EVENING

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 42 The King John School The King John School, a large, mixed comprehensive with a wellestablished sixth form. The school was created in 1949, and since then has served the ever-growing communities of Thundersley and Benfleet, as well as welcoming students from further afield. It is a popular school where students high attendance reflects their commitment and enjoyment of school life. Our vision at King John is focused around ‘A Quality Education for All: To enable our students to be happy and successful learners, we strive to create a caring, supportive and aspirational learning community, with high expectations and opportunities for all. We believe in offering a broad and balanced curriculum to enable students to flourish as individuals, and to achieve future success in whatever they choose to become later in life. This includes a strong emphasis on sport and the arts. We strive to nurture and develop our global citizens of the future by celebrating success and valuing aspiration. We are determined to ensure that every student succeeds and maximises their potential. The recruitment, retention and training of fully-qualified staff play a key part in our drive to secure strong academic outcomes for all students, and to instil a life-long love of learning. We understand the vitally important role of partnerships between families and school, and value our relationships with all members of the community we serve. We have a thriving sixth form, which has been significantly extended to provide a wealth of additional, state-of-the-art facilities. Students’ destinations are very strong, and they progress to higher education, including Oxbridge and other Russell Group universities, apprenticeships and employment.

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 43 Visit our website for more information on our open day OPEN DAY Thursday 12th October 2023 | 6.30pm – 9pm Graded Good Please contact the school 01702 558 284 | [email protected] | www.thekjs.essex.sch.uk

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 44 Exams Nightmares: A Student’s View *Beep beep beep* - your 6.30 alarm goes off. The temptation is there to slam your hand on snooze, but you can already hear your parents up and about downstairs, and they’ll soon be up to remind you what day it is if you try and roll over in bed. Last night you didn’t sleep so well - first you dreamt that you forgot your pens, then you forgot your timetable, then you forgot where exactly the school hall is, the list goes on. There’s no stopping time now though, today is your Maths GCSE, and it’s time to get ready for school. You pull on your tie and blazer, looking at yourself in the bathroom mirror. You’ve revised as best you can, though that algebra puzzle is still confusing. Some of your friends are ‘winging it’, some have spent the last 3 months revising every day - and you’re somewhere in the middle. Your teachers have told you how important this GCSE is for your future, how all the jobs, courses and employers will be asking if you have your Maths GCSE, and it’s all come down to today. It’s scary, but you’re just about as prepared as you can be. Downstairs you go. The rest of your family are having breakfast, trying to act nonchalant like it’s not one of the biggest days of your school career so far. Dad has put some toast on and Mum is making eggs because ‘they’re good for your brain!’. Your sibling is sat on their phone - lucky thing, they’ve got three more years before they need to think about all this stuff. You chomp down your eggs, feeling queasy and only eating to be polite. Good to eat though - you already feel faint enough, no need to be fainting because you didn’t eat breakfast properly! You help clean up, Dad giving you a pat on the back, Mum telling you you’re going to smash it - you know they mean well. Was it like this when they did their GCSEs? Did they even do GCSEs? Was it such a big deal then? Don’t think about it. Just focus on today, focus on getting to that hall one step at a time…

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 45 “Have you got your bag all packed? Pencil case ready? Is it see through like they said it needs to be?” Mum shouts from the top of the stairs. She’s taken the day off work so she can pick you up afterwards. You wanted to go in on the bus though, so you could see your mates on the way. You head out the door, bag on, legs feeling wobbly. The steps towards the bus stop feel like they go on for miles and miles. You plug in your headphones and listen to your favourite playlist to get you in the zone, but nothing will quiet those nerves until you hand your paper back later. The bus pulls up and your mates are sat on the top deck, looking equally sheepish. One has the maths textbook out, desperately trying to cram in that last bit of information. One has a revision app open on their phone. One is staring out the window ignoring all of it - in denial or just well prepared? Who knows. You chat to them - they seem nervous, but accepting that what’ll be will be. If only you could be so chill! The closer the bus comes to school the stronger those butterflies in your stomach grow. After what feels like 30 seconds, and hours on end, the bus pulls to a stop. The year sevens hop off the bus ready for another school day… you don’t miss year seven, but you seriously miss the carefree days of single geography lessons! Off you get, your mates gathering around you. You’ve got 20 minutes until you need to be at the exam hall, so you sit together for a last minute pep talk. It’ll be fine, we’ve (well some of us have) prepared, we can do this, the list of positives go on. Nothing really helps, but before you know it, it’s 9.15. You’re glad you didn’t have to go to form this morning, because sitting in a giant room full of people who all have different feelings about this exam would have been way too much to cope with. You take your steps towards the exam hall. Time to put your bag in the bag store – you avoid listening to everyone’s hushed and nervous conversations and just focus on getting your bag away. Pencils at the ready, pencil case zipped, student lanyard out, phone ready to put in the lock box (and definitely turned off, because who wants to be that person?). You remind yourself of your seat number and the line you need to join, and move back towards the lines to go in. Everyone looks nervous, you included. You look into the hall window - you can see the tables and chairs lined up, invigilator at the front… it’s all starting to feel really real. How is it that you were doing PE in that room a few months ago, and now you’re taking one of the most important exams you ever will, and you’ve only been on the planet for 16 years? Time to go in - your feet feel really wobbly, but you’ve got this. In you go, marching towards your seat. You sit down. The invigilators are just normal people but they look so… intimidating! They hand out the maths papers, face down… the temptation to look is crazy, but you know that’s the daftest thing you could do right now. You look around without moving your head, so that they don’t think you’re trying to communicate with someone. They read out the exam instructions… does the clock in here normally sound that loud? Why is it so hot in here? Is it just me? Focus! Before you know it you can hear them saying “the time starts now, you have one and half hours”. Now or never. Let’s do this. …

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 46 Well, that wasn’t too bad… you think? The paper had stuff on it that you recognised, and your fear didn’t get the better of you. You remembered the key things, and you managed to get to the end of the paper. Nothing was too much of a surprise - but that last question on algebra definitely threw you. It wasn’t too many marks though, so you’re not too worried. You even managed to have time to check your answers, which you were surprised by. The revision was worth it, you think. You hand back the paper, with a serious feeling of relief as you do it. You might not know the result, but at least there’s nothing more you can do now. Once the paper is back, you look around the room, trying to work out how everyone else feels. Some people look relaxed, calm, and relieved. Others look pretty rough. This is definitely one of the hardest things you’ve had to go through at school so far, and that’s saying something. Out everyone files from the exam hall. You promised yourself you wouldn’t overthink how it went, especially when talking with your mates. You can hear people dissecting the whole paper, asking what the answers to different questions were, hearing groans from some and celebrations from others as they realise they got their questions wrong, or right. Over at the bag store you can see some people celebrating and others in tears - you’re somewhere in the middle. It’s hard to work out how you did - some people are certain they’ve got 9’s, some people feel like they should already book their re-sit… the list goes on. There’s not much you can do now though, so you try to distract yourself on your phone. Time to find Mum - they let everyone have the rest of the day off since this was such a big exam. You wander through the car park and feel a huge relief when you spot her car. You expect her to ask you millions of questions at once – how did it go? Did you manage the whole paper? Did the things you were worried about come up? But she doesn’t. She’s outside the car, and comes up and gives you a giant hug. “You’ve done brilliantly however it went, love”, she whispers in your ear. Just what you needed to hear. You don’t feel like talking about how it went, and she turns the music on, driving towards your favourite fast food chain for some well deserved lunch. This was one of the first of your big exams. It felt scary, but now it’s over, it feels so long ago. There are more to come, so you know this feeling of nervousness will come back again and again, but somehow you feel a little less scared about them. You’re just glad you’ve got your family around you to distract you, and a massive burger to eat for lunch! — Did this remind you of your exam days? Sometimes it’s hard to remember how our children are feeling in preparation for these big tests - so we thought we’d help you get into their heads and return to the tough old days of revision, clear pencil cases and post exam discussions. This learner most benefited from a family that supported them, and gave them space. We’re sure you agree it’s the best way forward.

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 47 Helena Romanes School At Helena Romanes, we are dedicated to our students and we strive to provide them with an exceptional education from the age of four to eighteen. Our curriculum is carefully designed to be comprehensive and diverse, offering our students a wealth of opportunities for growth and development. Through our programs, they acquire the necessary skills, knowledge, and understanding to navigate their way towards higher education, apprenticeships, training, or employment. While academic excellence is of crucial importance, we ensure that we focus on nurturing the personal, social, and creative aspects of our students’ lives. Our ultimate goal is for them to leave Helena Romanes as accomplished, self-assured, and compassionate young adults, ready to make positive contributions to society. The accomplishments of our students make us immensely proud. They serve as exceptional ambassadors for our school, representing us with distinction at local, national, and international levels. Their involvement in our extensive range of extracurricular activities showcases their talents and dedication. At the core of our success is our exceptional team of highly qualified and dedicated staff members. They are committed to supporting the progress and well-being of our students, providing them with guidance and mentorship throughout their educational journey. Working closely with parents, carers, and the wider community, we foster a collaborative environment that ensures a cohesive and holistic approach to our students’ learning and development. By actively involving all collaborators, we create a nurturing and empowering atmosphere where students can thrive and reach their full potential. At Helena Romanes, we believe that education is a shared responsibility, and we take pride in cultivating strong partnerships with our parents, carers, and the wider community. By working together, we foster a supportive network that complements the efforts of our dedicated staff. We value open communication and collaboration, recognizing that the collective engagement of all collaborators is essential in creating an enriching and fulfilling educational experience for our students. Come and take a look around our school on Thursday 5th October at 5.00pm -8.00pm. We will be running some information mornings through October for parents/carers of Year 6 who were unable to attend the Open Evening. This information will be on our website and bookable via Eventbrite. OPEN EVENING Come and take a look around the school Thursday 5th October 5.00pm - 8.00pm Secondary School Primary School Main Hall Primary Building Ms Davies, Executive Headteacher Mrs Hone, Headteacher 5.30pm, 6.30pm & 7.30pm Open from 5.30pm (talk at 6.00pm) For any further enquiries or to book a visit to the primary school please contact: Bev Louth, Admissions [email protected] 01371 876593 The talks will only be bookable via Eventbrite from September www.helena-romanes.essex.sch.uk

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 48 Greensward Academy At Greensward Academy, we see education very much as a journey rather than a destination, and as an 11-18 school, we are committed to supporting your child every step of the way. Defined by our strong and nurturing sense of community, enhanced by our happy and motivated student body and underpinned by our committed and positive staff, we offer certainty in an uncertain world. Whilst we rightfully celebrate a long history of academic success at GCSE and a Sixth Form consistently ranked as one of the very best in the country, we also see our learners as individuals with unique talents and care for them as such; with our pastoral support programme being given the highest grade of Platinum in a recent independent review, they are at the very heart of everything we do. And so, to our prospective students we say - regardless of whether your strength is in academic endeavour, sporting prowess or artistic expression, with our safe, inclusive, ordered and most importantly happy community, Greensward Academy stands ready to be the place where your journey to remarkable begins! What our pupils say about us: “Greensward is a really friendly school and you won’t find another school that will give you what Greensward gives you. You won’t want to leave.” “The teachers are helpful and supportive and make you do the best you can.” What our parents say about us: “We could not have asked for a better start to secondary school life.” What Ofsted says about us: “Pupils are eager and willing to learn; this behaviour helps them make good progress in their lessons.” Greensward Academy, Greensward Lane, Hockley, SS5 5HG www.greenswardacademy.org [email protected]

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 49 BE UNUSUALLY BRAVE DISCOVER WHAT’S POSSIBLE PUSH THE LIMITS BE BIG-HEARTED Find Your Remarkable at Greensward Academy A successful academy with traditional values linked to high expectations. Outstanding examination results both at GCSE and A level. Excellent sporting achievements locally and nationally. An impressive extra-curricular programme with a variety of clubs such as Art, Drama, Chess, Science, STEM and Photography. High aspirations – all our students who wanted to go to university this year gained a place. State of the art classrooms and facilities. Greensward Lane, Hockley, Essex SS5 5HG 01702 202571 www.greenswardacademy.org [email protected] If you are looking to find a place for your son or daughter to start their secondary or Sixth Form education in a forward thinking school, then we would encourage you to come along to our Open Evening: The closing date for applications for places in Year 7 in 2024 is 31 October 2023. Any queries regarding admissions should be directed to Ms S Kent. Open Evening: 5 October 2023 6.00pm to 8.00pm Sixth Form Information Evening: 16 November 2023 6.00pm

Essential Guide Magazine 2023 50 The Bromfords School Our Vision As a school community, we aim to develop a culture where everyone aspires to be the best they can be, in all that they do. This aspiration is not just centred around the work of students and adults, but also about interactions with other members of our community in both our actions and words. This vision is underpinned by our core values of achieve, enrich and prepare. Achieve • We believe that all our young people have the potential to achieve in school and succeed in life. Whatever their starting point no young person will be left behind. • We aim to provide our students with a high-quality learning environment which maximises student success. A variety of curriculum pathways allows us to challenge yet support students of different abilities so that everyone reaches their potential. • Regular homework encourages students to develop the key life-skill of independence and allows them to reflect on their learning. • Our curriculum is constantly reviewed to ensure it is well sequenced and builds on prior learning. • Our SEND Department and teaching staff endeavour to break down barriers to learning and support students’ progress through early identification of need, support, intervention, and teaching strategies. Enrich • Throughout their time in school, we will nurture the talents and interests of our students and aim to provide them with an abundance of invaluable life experiences. • Students have a breadth of experience beyond the classroom, including field trips and educational visits. • The school offers an abundance of opportunities to develop leadership skills and to allow students to be involved in, and have an impact on, the school’s environment, as well as developing skills they need for success in and outside of the classroom. • Duke of Edinburgh – Prefects – Student Voice – Jack Petchey – Anti-Bullying Ambassadors – Student Presidents – Prince’s Trust – Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Ambassadors are just some of the many opportunities on offer to students. • We understand the value of pastoral care and the impact it can have for every individual young person in our community. Each year group has a dedicated pastoral team that support the well-being of students on their journey through The Bromfords School. Prepare • We aim to develop the skills and attributes that are key in empowering our students to be successful well-rounded and thoughtful individuals, preparing them for their next steps in a rapidly changing world. • We have an excellent Year 6 transition programme ensuring a smooth switch from primary to secondary school. • Our Careers, Education, Information, Advice and Guidance (CEIAG) programme provides exceptional support to students, parents and carers from Year 7 all the way through to Year 13 and opportunities post-18. • This high quality CEIAG provision is supplemented further by our outstanding personal, social, health, and citizenship education. This helps our young people prepare for adult life. • Our Student Voice teams provide an opportunity for our young people to play a vital role in shaping both the current and future experiences of The Bromfords School for our students. • Our post-16 transition programme supports our students with their next steps. Our aim is for our Year 11 students to continue their learning journey in our Sixth Form, where the school’s ethos of high expectations and individual care continues. We offer a wide range of courses and students achieve excellent outcomes. We are always delighted to hear from Year 11 students approaching our Sixth Form as external applicants. Our Culture Our school’s culture, (the way we do things at Bromfords) is based around the principles of high expectations and aspirations for all members of our community; actions and conversations, however difficult, are always underpinned by kindness; that we communicate and share success; that we value each other’s views and opinions; decisions are evidence based and student centered.