Senior

The experience offered at Westbourne Senior School follows on from the excellent foundation provided to pupils from their experience at Westbourne Junior School. Working in close liaison with the Junior School, pupils are guided smoothly through the transition from Year 5 to Year 6.

Small Class Sizes

The small class sizes offered at Westbourne Senior School ensure that teachers are able to both foster the talents of a pupil and also support them with any difficulties they may be experiencing. Saliently, small class sizes also promote the caring, family-like atmosphere, which is the very cornerstone of the Westbourne School experience. From this, pupils are able to integrate and to interact with one another in a disciplined, yet friendly context.

Teaching and Learning

Teaching and Learning is an established priority at Westbourne, with great emphasis being placed on the development of mutual respect and trust between staff and pupils. This enables staff to make use of teaching time most efficiently and the school boasts a long record of excellent academic achievement in external examinations at GCSE level.

Independence and Self-Discipline

Pupils are encouraged increasingly to take responsibility for their own learning. Access to the school library and computer room outside lessons helps to facilitate the completion of coursework, problem-solving assignments and to develop investigative research skills. A teacher-supervised homework class held between 4- 5pm assists pupils with the completion of homework tasks; attendance at homework class is flexible and voluntary.

Parent-Teacher Relations

The school enjoys and seeks to develop close working relationships with parents. Staff are ready and willing to answer any questions parents may have about their children along the way, working from the firm belief that home and school should work closely together to support young adults. There is an active and very supportive Friends' Committee, which engages in regular activities for the school's benefit. Many parents and past pupils have become personal friends and our doors are always open to them and to any new parents who might seek to share in our school.

The School Curriculum

The Senior School curriculum is broad and flexible, enabling pupils to choose the pathway that best suits their abilities, needs and interests. Pupils are prepared for the Common Entrance Examination at 13+ and for a total of 10-12 GCSE Subjects including:

•     English
•     English Literature
•     Mathematics
•     Biology
•     Chemistry
•     Physics
•     History
•     Geography
•     French
•     Business Studies
•     Information Communication Technology
•     Music
•     Physical Education
•     Art

As well as providing a broad and excellent academic education, Personal Social Education (PSE), Citizenship and Entrepreneurial themes are included in the timetable. These, along with extra- curricula activities, are designed to educate pupils to become good all-round members of society. The school fosters an involvement in the local community and has active Charities and Interact Committees.

Physical Education also plays an important part in the school day. Access to high-quality sports facilities is readily available and the wide-ranging sporting activities are staffed by a well-qualified and enthusiastic team.