Grading System
No other school in England assesses its students in such detail or follows through so thoroughly every week. Our unique system of monitoring academic progress is probably the single most important reason for our highly successful academic record.
Every week our teachers grade their students for standard and effort. Every Monday there is a meeting of teachers, Heads of Department and Housemasters, chaired by the Headmaster and Director of Studies to discuss these grades in detail. Problems are instantly identified, solutions suggested, and wherever possible students are selected for special congratulation and encouragement.
In the Houses that same evening our Housemasters and personal tutors discuss the grades with the students individually. Advice and guidance is offered on a range of areas, from organisation through to presentation.
Our weekly assessment is effective on many fronts. It keeps the students on target and provides everyone involved – students, staff, school management and parents – with an up-to-date picture of the student’s progress. It also enables the Housemaster to help the students on the really important issues and in so doing develops a stronger working relationship.
More importantly, if something is wrong, it is identified and dealt with immediately. In addition to the weekly assessments that are always available to parents, there are half-term reports and comprehensive subject-by-subject end-of-term reports. We encourage parents to speak to the Housemaster and Director of Studies and welcome their visits should they wish to talk to subject staff directly.