Fortnightly Comment – Friday 19th October 2012

Fortnightly Comment – Friday 19th October 2012

As many of you will be aware, in April 2011 we were accredited with the NACE Challenge Award. This national award recognises the outstanding provision which we offer as a school for able, gifted and talented (AGT) students.

Immediately after half term, some of you will be receiving letters to inform you that we have identified your son as AGT. The term ‘able’ refers to a student who is performing within the top 10% of his year group. There will be an information evening on November 20th 2012 at 6.00pm to further explore the identification and the ways in which the school will aim to support and stretch these students.

However, as a school we recognise that AGT provision stretches much further than the 10% of students we are required to nominate annually. It is important for all students to have opportunities to pursue their gifts and talents, and to have opportunities to develop new ones. For those students who are currently in years 11, 12 and 13 there will be opportunities to engage with the master class programme offered by both Aston and Birmingham University. The programme offers university lectures in many key subjects which students will be currently studying or keen to study at University. Students should look regularly at the notice board outside W3 or discuss particular opportunities with Mr Rean.

Students in all year groups may wish to look at external providers such as Debate Chamber who offer residential and non residential opportunities in many curriculum areas and also in career based studies such as medicine and law.

You may also wish to note the planned parental conference in June 2013 which is an opportunity for parents and students to enjoy some shared learning in sessions provided by local Universities as well as advice and guidance for parents on supporting able young people.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.

A Whittall

Deputy Headteacher