Welcome to our Open Days 14 June 2012 16 October 2012 Please switch off all mobile phones

1. Welcome to ourOpen Days 14 June 2012 16 October 2012 Please switch off all mobile phones

3. To seek, to learn, today…. Headteacher: Jennifer Payne Deputy Heads: Jonathan Hopkins Anne Kelly Key Stage Managers: Lindsey Farrington Emma Bushell Head Girls: Yasmin Williams Lucy Pointer ….to shape, to lead, tomorrow

4. Outstanding teachers – specialists in teaching able girls • Traditional values – honesty, respect, courtesy, pride • A school for pupils – where opinion is valued and voice is heard ‘Learners are rightly proud of their school. Relationships at all levels are excellent and staff and learners show mutual respect for each other.’Ofsted Inspection Report

5. Primary transfer induction arrangements – many pupils already share activities with us! • Pastoral structure through house groups - experienced tutors, Sixth Formers attached to each group • School size – small enough to stay in touch, focus on individual pupils ‘There has been innovative work to engage pupils and this has developed to take account of their views and preferred learning activities.’ Ofsted Inspection Report

6. A preparation for life… …flexibility, creativity, problem-solving, communication and teamwork • An exciting adventure… …to University and beyond ‘Students make excellent progress in the Sixth Form... They are actively involved in all aspects of school life and provide excellent role models and mentoring for younger pupils.’ Ofsted Inspection Report

7. Traditional curriculum, range of teaching methods • Excellent examination results, continuous improvement: 2012 A-level - pass rate 100%; 56% A*-B grades 2012 GCSE - 99% 5+ A*-C grades, including English and mathematics • Full sixth form curriculum for girls and boys, most students go on to University ‘Learners make excellent progress and the great majority reach or exceed their challenging targets so that the standards are outstanding.’ Ofsted Inspection Report

8. ‘Grammar schools are remarkably successful in enhancing the performance of pupils who gain their grammar school place by a narrow margin…. Borderline pupils who achieve a grammar school place obtain much better results in key stage three than those in the same ability group who do not (attend a grammar school).’NfER research paper (September 2004) ‘Pupils’ excellent attitudes to learning and the quality of teaching they receive are key factors in their success.’ Ofsted Inspection Report

9. Promoting pride in achievement • Specialist science status: emphasis on success in the twenty-first century • Building on female strengths and skills • Committed to preparing your daughter for her future ‘…learners have particularly good opportunities to develop skills which prepare them superbly for the next steps in their education…’Ofsted Inspection Report

10. Wide enrichment programme: • Sport for all – opportunities forinvolvement at every level • Termly musical performances • Drama productions • National Sports Leaders, Duke of Edinburgh, Young Enterprise, European work experience ‘Learners have excellent opportunities to take responsibility and make a positive contribution to their own and the wider community.’ Ofsted Inspection Report

11. High expectations, a desire for excellence • Visits and residential opportunities for all • Commitment to the community • The pupils’ school – Active School Council • Extensive programme of educational and recreational activity • Development of personal qualities and leadership skills ‘Learners share a strong sense of belonging to the school community… They show a good understanding of other cultures and beliefs and respect the right of individuals to be different.’ Ofsted Inspection Report

12. Skills for life: self-respect, self-confidence, self-discipline • Good manners, courtesy, consideration for others • Senior pupils as role models • Partnership with parents • A preparation for adult life ‘Behaviour is exemplary both in lessons and around the school.’Ofsted Inspection Report

13. Important Dates • Register for 11+ tests by Monday 2 July 2012 • Tests in primary schools: 12 & 13 September • Out-of-area tests: Saturday 8 & 15 September • Additional Open Evening at Highsted: Tuesday 16 October 2012 • Closing date for school choices: 31 October • National Offer day: 1 March 2013 • Independent Appeals process as now: April/May 2013

14. A serious purpose…. ….where learning is fun!

15. Highsted Grammar School provides an outstanding standard of education and care for its pupils. The school is very inclusive and there is a strong focus on encouraging both academic achievement and personal development of all learners. Learners feel extremely safe and well cared for and say that their teachers know them well and give them excellent guidance and support. Parents are overwhelmingly supportive of the school…. “My daughter is progressing well and the school certainly gives her the support and confidence to aim high in the future.” Ofsted Inspection Report A school for the family... …from enthusiastic youngster to mature young woman… …facing her future with confidence

16. To seek, to learn, today…. To answer your questions: • Jennifer Payne: Headteacher • Jonathan Hopkins: Deputy HeadsAnne Kelly • Lindsey Farrington: Key Stage 3 ManagersEmma Bushell • YasminWilliams: Head GirlsLucy Pointer Thank you for visiting our school ….to shape, to lead, tomorrow