Routines and expectations
We believe that consistency is central to a safe, calm school. We use line-ups in the morning and after social times to create order and structure and address pupils collectively. We expect silence in the movement from line-ups and we have staff coverage throughout social times.
Our routines in class include ‘Do Now’ activities, extensive reading, questioning and independent practice. In class, we expect pupils to be considerate and curious in their learning and our use of ‘BEST’ helps all pupils focus, track the teacher and ensure key learning moments are noted.
The curriculum is delivered through booklets and these ensure we have consistency and clarity for pupils.
Pupil leadership
We believe that all pupils can contribute to school and community life in a meaningful way. All staff are committed to developing pupils who understand their responsibilities and want to make a difference. It is our aim to develop pupil leaders in our Pupil Parliament, who represent the school views and can demonstrate leadership skills throughout their tenure.
Pupil Parliament help to develop school priorities through:
- School charity work
- Supporting school priorities of a calm, safe school with disruption free learning
- Volunteering
- Representing the school at key events
- Leading on communication
Developing leaders
We have representational leadership that reflects our diverse community, and pupils undertake training with us as part of their roles. We welcome any links within the community and we are supportive of visitors, experiences and links that can benefit the school community.
Celebrations
We are keen to reward pupils and create a culture of success and achievement. We have celebration assemblies every half-term and results assemblies when report cards are released. Pupils can receive achievement points in and around school for academic efforts of other acts of merit. These are reported to parents and can be tracked on the MCAS app.
Elite performance
Newfield School is committed to supporting pupils who demonstrate exceptional commitment and performance in sport and the arts. Where appropriate, the school will seek to recognise and accommodate these commitments.
Exemptions may be granted for pupils involved in eligible sporting programmes run by regional, national or international organisations, including recognised performance pathways and national squads. These opportunities must extend beyond participation in local or recreational teams.
Eligible arts commitments are defined as opportunities that go beyond those offered by Newfield School. This may include involvement with regional, national or international music, drama or arts organisations, or participation in high-level performances or programmes.
We are proud to celebrate the achievements of pupils engaged in these activities and are keen to support them in balancing the demands of academic study with their wider commitments, particularly during Key Stage 4.
You can find the Period 6 Arts and Sporting Exemption policy here.