wisbech grammar school prospectus

wisbechgrammar school

education that fits

www.wisbechgrammar.com

Although this prospectus will give you an insight and flavour of the School, you will need to visit when we are in session to experience the positive atmosphere which abounds daily.

Please contact our Admissions Secretary who will be happy to arrange a visit when you will meet both staff and pupils.

Wisbech Grammar School North Brink, Wisbech, Cambridgeshire. PE13 IJX Tel: 01945 583631 Fax: 01945 476746


seeing is believing


tradition with innovationWisbech Grammar School has served the Fenland region for many centuries. As the inheritors of a long and distinguished tradition we are proud to follow our predecessors in providing an education which equips our young people for the challenges that they will face in the future. Nowadays, WGS is a dynamic school of tremendous vitality and diversity, where pupils follow a broad curriculum, blending the traditional and the modern. Experienced teachers are one of our greatest strengths; they have the resources they need to do their job to the highest possible standards.

There is no one single type of WGS student; we look to develop the potential of each child and our size means that we can offer an individual approach in which all flourish. Our pupils come from a wide variety of backgrounds and we celebrate their achievements.

Exam success is but one part of the education here and we set great store by the all round experience that we offer. Opportunities abound and we encourage students to challenge themselves in all that they do. We are a busy coeducational day school and we encourage our students to develop their own opinions and above all to know themselves.

This prospectus gives a flavour of our exciting community. Come and visit us and find out more about what goes on here.

Contents

2 The Perfect Place for Inquisitive Minds

5 Making a Good Start

6 Widening the Experience

7 Achieving and Enjoying

9 A Place for Everyone

10 A Chance to Perform

13 Learning to Lead

14 Seeing the Way Forward


be part of our heritage

02

the perfect place for inquisitive mindsScholarship is at the heart of all that we do. Our students are keen to learn. Small class sizes enable our highly qualified staff to work with pupils in a way which focuses on the individual. We challenge our students to grow intellectually at all stages of their education and also develop in them an understanding of how they learn. This self awareness is the key to academic success. Our students develop the academic habits that lead to excellent performances in public exams and a life long love of learning. What’s more, when motivated and bright students work together they learn from each other.

Our curriculum is broad and exciting. We challenge students to think for themselves and also offer opportunities to develop the skills and ideas that will take them to university and beyond. Our approach in the classroom is a blend of the traditional and the innovative with an emphasis on success.

Education is best when all are involved. Our academic tracking systems keep parents aware of their child’s progress. Regular reports and Parents’ Evenings allow an ongoing dialogue between school and home. Form tutors review academic progress and support student learning.

A balance of mental, physical and spiritual development. There is a good deal more to school than simply passing exams. We look to provide a stimulating education both in and out of the classroom. This approach leads to the development of thoughtful, capable and purposeful young people who have a strong set of values and a readiness to engage in the world around them.

1379:Wisbech Grammar School founded by the Guild of the Holy Trinity

Lessons held above the church porch at the parish Church of St. Peter and St. Paul, Wisbech Dominus Adam Reynald first Master

1446:Jacob Cresner appointed Master of the school

1549:Wisbech Grammar School is chartered by Edward VI for “the instruction of boys and young men in grammatical knowledge and polite learning”

1407:Maurice Plank appointed by the Bishop of Ely John de Fordham to teach the Grammar Scholars of Wisbech

1548:Rev Henry Ogle appointed Headmaster

1547:Dissolution of the Guild of the Holy Trinity

03

1630:William Frisney MA appointed Headmaster 1623:

Tristram Dymond appointed Headmaster

1615:Robert Howell appointed Headmaster

1580:Thomas Lowthe appointed Headmaster

1564:Mr. Rastall appointed Headmaster

1634:John Crane, Apothecary donates The Bull Inn to the School

1549:Wisbech Grammar relocates to purpose built premises in Hill Street following a bequest by William Bellman

04


1678:Francis Fern MA appointed Headmaster

1657:George Frisney and William Pierson attend Magdalene College Cambridge as Holmes Scholars

1651:Additional school rooms built at Hill Street following a bequest made by John Crane

1640:Foundation of bye fellowship and scholarship for pupils of Wisbech Grammar School at Peterhouse College, Cambridge

1638:William Holmes donates £400 to the School. Scholarship arrangements with Magdalene College Cambridge established

At WGS we recognise that a smooth transition into senior school helps pupils make a flying start and that’s why pupils get a visit to their primary school by a member of the Middle School team. The year starts with an adventure – at Manor Adventure Shropshire – a week long activity experience where friendships are formed, confidence is fostered and team work developed. We consider it such a great way to start at WGS that the whole year group attends. The form tutor will be in place for the first two years to ensure that we know each individual. Pupils are taught in form groups and follow a broadly based curriculum. First Formers study the traditional mainstream subjects: maths, English, science, history and geography; two foreign languages and a range of creative subjects including art, music, design and technology, food and

nutrition and textiles. Sporting practices, mid-week and weekend fixtures and engagement with our extensive co- curricular programme give all an opportunity to shine. Among other things, First Form pupils also get their first taste of the Middle School Forum, an opportunity to air their views and gain an insight into how the school works. Pupils are encouraged and supported to seek solutions and take responsibility. Regular contact with parents, by way of the grade card and parents’ evenings and reports all mean that they are fully informed about progress in school.

05

making a good start

“There are lots of different things to do at lunch break. We had great fun in the First Form.”

1697:Thomas Carter MA appointed Headmaster

1680:Charter of Charles II confirms the Bishop of Ely’s rights of visitation. Boys are instructed to deliver a Latin oration in the Bishop’s presence

1727:Rev John Newson MA appointed Headmaster

1690:Thomas Johnson MA appointed Headmaster

1706:John Carter MA appointed Headmaster

1731:Rev Richard Forster MA appointed Headmaster

1735:Rev Robert Foulkes MA President of Magdalene College Cambridge appointed Headmaster

“I really enjoy all the co-curricular activities that I do. They are a great way to learn more about a subject or just to have fun. There are also many different clubs and teams to choose from.”

widening the experienceDuring the Second and Third Forms we build on the good work done in the First Form.

Students continue to be taught in form groups and experience a range of different teaching styles and approaches. Use of technology is mixed with more traditional techniques so all have the opportunity to find out which learning style fits.

Choice and breadth characterises the Third Form curriculum. Students study a wide range of subjects to be in a position to choose their GCSE options carefully. The three sciences are taught separately for the first time. The option blocks are created by pupil choices, not by the artificial needs of the timetable.

Further opportunities to increase confidence, such as outdoor activity days, are provided. Pupils can also begin their Duke of Edinburgh’s Award which for many will culminate in the Gold Award. There are also opportunities for foreign travel with a Chateau Trip, exchange visits and ski holidays to Italy or the USA.

06

be part of our heritage

1792:John Clarkson O.G. becomes the first Governor of Freetown, Sierra Leone

1747:Old Grammarian Thomas Herring becomes Archbishop of Canterbury

1766:Thomas Clarkson commences study at Wisbech Grammar School, later playing a leading role in the abolition of slavery

Appointment of Rev Richard Oswin MA as Headmaster

1738:Rev George Kilner MA appointed Headmaster 1760:

Birth of Thomas Clarkson in the School House

1749:Rev. John Clarkson MA appointed Headmaster


07

achieving and enjoyingThe Fourth Form marks an opportunity for pupils to specialise. Our approach to GCSE is to recognise that this is a crucial stage in everyone’s academic development and to use this as a stepping stone to A level and beyond. Science and humanities are taught as discreet subjects. Creative options are also available and our award winning art department provides an environment in which imaginations can be given scope to develop.

Technology options allow students a chance to experience hands-on learning.

In the Fifth Form we look to develop beyond the exam specifications and ensure that the foundations for A level success are laid. Students are given careful individual guidance regarding post 16 options and our approach gives them the very best chance of exam success.

In an ever more competitive world our students are ready for the future.

“There are great areas for us to do academic study; we have amazing sport, cooking and art. But the one thing that makes WGS such a great school is the people in it!”

widening the experience

1817:Old Grammarian Thomas Hall becomes Professor of Mathematics and History at King’s College London

1796:Rev Martin Coulcher MA appointed Headmaster

1803:Rev Jeremiah Jackson MA Fellow of St. John’s College Cambridge appointed Headmaster. Rev Jackson is a renowned antiquarian

1826:Plans for a new school building are proposed by the townsfolk of Wisbech

Appointment of Rev. J.R. Major MA as Headmaster. He later goes on to become the Head of King’s College London

1831:Rev. George H.W. Thompson MA appointed Headmaster

1866:Old Grammarian William Johnson Smith wins the Jacksonian Prize, Royal College of Surgeons. Acts as surgeon of the Dreadnaught Hospital, Greenwich for 35 years

08


1890:Mr. A.W. Poyser MA appointed Headmaster. Mr Poyser had a degree from Trinity College Dublin and was a pioneering mathematics teacher

1891:An appeal for a new school building is launched under the leadership of Mr. George Dawbarn. The appeal is supported by the donation of land from the President of St. John’s College, Oxford

1883:Rev W.R. Stanton BD appointed Headmaster

1879:Rev. E.D. Holditch MA appointed Headmaster

1878:The School falls under the control of the Endowed School Commissioners. Queen Victoria becomes the School Visitor

1876:Rev James Paterson appointed Headmaster

The needs of each student stand at the heart of all that we do. Supporting them to realise their full potential is our aim. To target support effectively the Senior School is organised into three sections: Middle (Years 7-9), Upper (Years 10-11) and Sixth Form. Each has a Head of Section and dedicated pastoral team.

Form sizes get smaller as pupils progress up the school thus allowing Form Tutors to be at the heart of the process of listening to and supporting students. Our Grade Card monitors progress and effort. It keeps parents informed and then established and robust systems are in place to reward and motivate.

We pride ourselves that our pupils know that they can approach any member of staff with their concerns and all staff know they have a role to play in the pastoral system. As part of the partnership between school and home, parents are encouraged to contact the school should any issues arise. The Form Tutor, usually, is the first point of contact.

Our Learning Support Programme allows students who have great potential the opportunity to shine. All pupils are screened in case of any needs such as dyslexia on entry into the First Form and a support programme, involving individual or paired lessons, offered. Outside agencies are involved as appropriate.

09

“All my success has come from the skills I learned at school.”Richard Blakesley, Dragon’s Den winner

Old Wisbechian

a place for everyone

1893:Philip Vasser Hunt later pioneering researcher in underwater technology and first president of the British Ice Hockey Federation joins the school

1896:Following a major donation from the Peckover family the new school building plans are approved and building begins on South Brink

1899:The old school buildings in Hill Street are sold

1902:Middle Block is opened on South Brink

T.H.Pear becomes open scholar at King’s College London and goes on to have a distinguished academic career in the field of psychology

The school is approved as a Secondary School by the Board of Education

10

a chance to perform


Activities inside the classroom are important but we put equal emphasis on the lessons that are learned elsewhere. Students are encouraged to express themselves through music, drama and sport and in doing so become rounded personalities. The school offers a full programme of opportunities and we play to win!

A full range of instrumental tuition is offered. Performance opportunities large and small are available to all students; indeed all First Formers take part in the Autumn Concert. For those who want to pursue music to a higher level there are numerous concerts both in and out of school.

All students have drama lessons and the opportunity to take part in school plays. We have a range of different opportunities from serious drama to more light hearted shows.

Drama gives all students the chance to express themselves and develop vital public speaking and presentation skills. Students enjoy a variety of performance spaces from the main school stage in the Russell Hall to the intimate Drama Studio; there is a role for all to play.

In addition to timetabled games lessons we play a competitive list of fixtures and our results speak for themselves. Students of all sporting abilities are encouraged to play recreational sport on our fantastic grounds. Teams practise at lunchtimes and after school in addition to games afternoons. Each year students go on to represent the county or regional sides, others have achieved national recognition. High quality coaching means that our students are able to realise their potential.

“This school is for hard working people and to be part of it is great. This school presents new opportunities, ones that are hard to refuse.”

1914:F. Dorothy Carless appointed Headmistress of Wisbech High School

1920:H. Lawrence White appointed Headmaster

1919:E.M.C. Prideaux appointed Headmistress of Wisbech High School

1904:Wisbech Girls High School is founded and opened in Harecroft House, North Brink. The founding Headmistress is Miss Beatrice Sparks, one of the first women to achieve a maths degree from Oxford University

11

1940:The Stationers’ School is billeted on Wisbech Grammar School

Alan Chesters appointed Headmaster

1938:J. Bamforth MAappointed Headmistress of Wisbech High School

1971:First publication of the School magazine “Riverline”

1970:Wisbech Grammar School and Wisbech High School merge to form a fully co-educational school on North Brink

1967:Dr Douglas Anderson MSc, PhD appointed Headmaster

12

2003:Opening of the Dwight Centre for the Performing Arts

1997:Foundation of Magdalene House, Junior and Infant Department of Wisbech Grammar School

1983:The School becomes an independent school

1991:A major extension to the school buildings is completed including the Russell Hall

1988:Robert S Repper MA (Oxon) appointed Headmaster

13

As individuals who will go on to take leading positions in society we encourage all students to engage in activities which take them out of WGS. Our thriving Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme allows students the opportunity to challenge themselves in ways which they never thought possible. Trips and expeditions stretch the limits of our campus and allow students a taste of life in other cultures and to put what they have learned in the classroom into action. Regular outdoor challenge days test resolve and ingenuity.

Community engagement is important and the Caritas committee provides opportunity for the development of a ‘service before self’ mentality. Older students have the chance to work with younger members of the community to the benefit of all. Our Careers programme allows students the chance to consider life beyond school.

There is never a dull moment. An extensive choice of clubs and societies caters for a wide variety of tastes. Ranging from archery to yoga by way of electronics and foreign film appreciation, there is something to interest everyone.

We listen carefully to what our students tell us. Year group forums and councils allow us to hear concerns carefully and respond constructively to the matters which are important to students. We also believe it gives them valuable skills for making themselves heard in later life.

Regular assemblies enable us to join together as a community and celebrate the successes of our students. We also take time out of the busy school day to reflect on the many opportunities that we have. Students take a lead be it in public speaking or performing.

learning to lead

2012:Refurbishment of the Chesters laboratories and the dedication of the Kroto laboratory

2013:Acquisition of the Davis and Jarvis fields giving a single unified campus

2014:Opening of the new refectory

2008:Opening of the Sports Hall and Magdalene House extension block and Alan Salmon Hall

Nicholas Hammond MA (Cantab) appointed Headmaster

2010:Opening of the Hazel Centre for Sixth Form Studies

14

“The best thing about WGS is that the teachers here want you to do well and there is a sense of ambition in the school as the students want to learn. If I had to pick one thing about WGS it would be that the atmosphere is always positive.”

seeing the way forwardWe work closely with students to realise their potential. We prepare them for entry into our Sixth Form. They will have developed the skills and aptitudes to succeed at post 16 level. Having had the benefit of studying in the Senior School they will be well prepared for A level and degree level.

Our aim is to prepare students for university entrance and our record in this respect is first class. Annually Sixth Formers leave for the nation’s most

prestigious academic institutions. They leave with the skills, knowledge and values to succeed.

All students receive detailed and individualised careers advice. At key points in their educational journey our dedicated careers staff provide up to date advice about subject choices, university selection and what needs to be done to make ambitions reality.

15

seeing the way forward

15

16



Wisbech Grammar SchoolNorth Brink, Wisbech, Cambs. PE13 1JX

T: 01945 583631 F: 01945 476746

[email protected]


Wisbech Grammar School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Further

information on this aspect of the school along with a copy of WGS’ key policies can be found at www.wisbechgrammar.com

Registered charity no. 1087799

Designed by Triad: www.triad.uk.com

wisbech grammar school prospectus

Documents

bright students

academic success

heritage02the perfect

busy coeducational day

academic habits

broad curriculum

exam success

individual approach