insideKENT Magazine Issue 54 - September 2016 | Page 138
EDUCATION
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
One School, Many Journeys
No two children are exactly alike; they all have their individual talents, likes and
dislikes. Sutton Valence School recognises this and, from Nursery to Upper Sixth (Yr
13), offers an almost bespoke journey for each child, both academically and beyond
the classroom. In this way, those things that spark each child’s imagination are found.
Whatever the
school arena,
Sutton Valence
strives to add
value to its
pupils. From
Nursery in the
Preparatory
School, a
comprehensive
monitoring and
reporting
programme keeps
parents constantly in touch with their child’s progress, both academically
and personally. As each little hurdle is met, the bar is gently raised to ensure
that, whatever their ability, children are being stretched.
When they reach the senior school, Sutton Valence, their academic
ability is benchmarked by Durham University against their 30-year history
of data, who are then able to predict what grades each child should get
at GCSE. The School uses this knowledge behind the scenes to constantly
adjust targets for each individual child. So successful is this approach that
by A-level each child is almost guaranteed to get one half to a full grade
better, per subject, than their initial prediction, no matter the starting point
as long as they are prepared to work with us and to maximise their effort.
But academic attainment alone
does not make a child ready for
university and beyond. Sutton
Valence's House system, at both
preparatory and senior schools,
fosters the school’s family
atmosphere. Friendly rivalry in the
House competitions, which may be
sporting, cultural, academic or just
good fun, offer opportunities for
every child to contribute and be
recognised. With over 40 activities
available each week, there is
something for everyone to shine at.
Mixed-age tutor groups of 12
– 15 give senior pupils the chance
to mentor their younger peers, whilst
the latter, in turn, get to rub
shoulders with those who lead the
pupil community and whose journey
is almost over.
With a determinedly inclusive
intake, Sutton Valence is able to
offer every pupil a route to their own
142
success. The doors are always
open, so if you are unable to attend
an Open Morning, please speak to
the relevant admissions contact,
who will be only too happy to
arrange a personal visit.
Prep School Admissions
Mrs Anne Leckie // 01622 842117
// [email protected]
Senior School Admissions
Mrs Kathy Webster //
01622 845206
// [email protected]
www.svs.org.uk