In my attempt to keep things fresh and to vary the genre of HM’s Blogs that come home each week, I am pleased to share with you this week a video. On Tuesday Mrs Emma Ross and her team of sports coaches ran a Spotlight on Sport event in the Chantry – an opportunity for parents and families to learn more about the (genuinely outstanding) sporting provision of offer at ECS. Part of that presentation was this short video: it gives an exciting snapshot of this dynamic and forward-thinking department. I am enormously proud of the journey that our sport and wellbeing programme has been on over the last 3 years, and I encourage you to spend 3 minutes 39 seconds finding out a bit more about what makes ECS sport the talk of the touchline.
Pupils’ self-esteem, self-confidence and self-knowledge flourish as a result of warm relationships between staff and pupils and the nurturing culture of the school. They also develop because of the encouraging and effective feedback provided by teachers.
The curriculum for the youngest children is highly tailored to their individual needs and interests, while the oldest pupils are supported effectively by teaching planned to develop pupils’ analytical skills and prepare them for the likely academic demands of their senior or secondary school.
Academic leaders employ a robust tracking system which informs teachers’ understanding of the progress made by their pupils…. Teachers adapt their provision in response to needs identified by assessment data. This contributes to pupils’ good progress.
The school provides a wide range of extra-curricular clubs and activities, ranging from the ‘country club’ in the pre-prep school where the children extend their geographical learning, to those exploring coding or ancient history.
Pupils who attain highly in sport are supported in progressing to high level competition by specialist coaching.
Music is embedded across the school. Staff have shaped an inclusive approach where all pupils are involved.
An emotionally-healthy lifestyle is promoted by leaders through the provision of quiet classroom areas and the support available from the ‘wellbeing room’.
Pupils are encouraged to express their views and show appropriate consideration toward those who hold opinions different from their own.
The culture of the school cultivates a sense of self-awareness and an appreciation of the needs of others.
Leaders and staff model high levels of respect and consideration, which are then shown across the community.
Pupils develop a sense of responsibility towards wider society through involvement in local citizenship projects and initiatives.
Leaders maintain an effective safeguarding culture where staff are aware of their responsibilities and respond appropriately should a concern be raised.