Additional Studies at The John of Gaunt School
Obviously when students begin an A Level, AS Level, BTEC, Diploma or GCSE course in the Sixth Form at The John of Gaunt School students' primary concern should be to do well in the subjects that they have chosen. Good results will open up a number of pathways. However, in these very competitive times, results are not always enough. People have to be able to present themselves properly, work in teams and show that they are flexible and alert. A lot comes down to confidence and experience.
At The John of Gaunt School we have decided against offering each student the same general studies course because everyone's needs are different. Instead, we would like students to assess their strengths and weaknesses and to choose activities from our Additional Studies programme that will develop confidence and skills.
Aspects of students' personality are explored through the commitment to community service Year 12 students do community service either inside or outside school and there is scope for a student to negotiate their own placement if they have a particular interest. Many students choose to work with our younger students. Some work with individual students who need help to develop their reading skills to a better standard. Others work to support teachers during lower school lessons. In these ways the youngsters gain tremendously while the Sixth Form students also develop important personal skills. A number of our students follow the Sports Leaders course that enables them to serve others by learning the skills associated with sports coaching. This course is certified by CCPR.
Students may decide that top level academic company is what they need and would like to be nominated for a Villier's Park study week where you can pursue your subject with other committed university hopefuls from all over the country.
It is important to look after your body as well as your mind so, at certain times of the week, students can choose to develop a new sports skill or refine an old one. We also run The Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme which is very popular with our students.
Music and the Arts are there for those who would like to keep up a talent or try out a new one.
The keynote through the whole Additional Studies programme is choice. We want students to choose those options that will go furthest in developing their range of skills and experience.
The programme of PSHE work is designed to prepare students thoroughly for the major decisions that have to be made prior to leaving school. There is, therefore, a major input about Higher Education opportunities. These sessions also give opportunities to practice presentation and problem solving skills. Study skills, including help with time management and exam nerves, will feature in this programme.
Travel offers an important range of opportunities. There are visits to foreign climes in many subjects. Many of our students find themselves visiting Europe during Year 12. For several years the school has been part of The World Challenge programme; this year our students are going to Norway.