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Strong emphasis on supporting individual pupils

The School places strong emphasis on supporting individual pupils in all aspects of their school life. Each class has its own teacher or tutor, who has overall responsibility for the pupils’ welfare. The class teachers or tutors monitor academic progress and ensure that any problems or concerns are dealt with promptly and effectively. In addition there is individual support for children who need help with their studies or in learning languages.

The tutor is also the first person in line when there are any disciplinary issues. At Hastings School our rules and disciplinary code are designed to foster and maintain ethical values, self-discipline, self-esteem and respect for others. Our clear set of procedures ensure that pupils are dealt with fairly and any problems are resolved quickly. The tutors are also supported by part-time educational psychologist and special needs teachers, who focus on learning difficulties or behavioural concerns.

We believe that successful education depends heavily on a close relationship between parents and school. Parents are encouraged to keep in regular contact with the school and are well informed of their children’s progress. Pupils receive two detailed reports each year in the Primary School, increasing to three in Secondary. The reports include overall grades for performance and effort and focus on what the pupil knows, understands and is able to do.

In addition, Secondary pupils complete a target-setting analysis, which allows them to reflect on their academic performance and set targets for improvement. Within the School itself, pupils’ progress is monitored continuously and problems or concerns are dealt with rapidly and effectively.

Regular parents evenings allow direct communication between parents and teachers. Parents can also communicate with Secondary teachers by means of the homework diary. At key points in the school year, extra meetings are held on specific curricular issues, while the Primary staff organise open evenings, during which parents can visit classrooms and see examples of the children’ s work. In addition, parents are, of course, welcome to make appointments with individual staff if they wish to discuss any concerns.