School Life - A Typical Day

We take pride in the care that we give to our pupils. The support that we provide, pastorally and via our team of high skilled and experienced speech and language therapists, occupational therapists and specialist teachers ensures that school life runs smoothly and is both enjoyable and rewarding.

We provide a firm but caring environment which helps pupils achieve a positive approach to their problems. Pupils thrive in this happy, caring, family atmosphere and it is a feature of the school that draws people to send their children here. We support our pupils all the way from 8 years to 18 years.

Edington School, 8 - 13 At our lower school, pupils are banded into small, comfortable groups where they study with others of the same age. Pupils aged up to 11, follow an integrated programme under the guidance of our specialist dyslexia teachers. In years 7 - 8, pupils follow a course that includes all subjects. Prep is given on a regular basis. All studies are based broadly on the National Curriculum, adapted where necessary to meet individual's requirements. Shapwick School, 13 - 18 In year 9 a typical curriculum includes the following subjects: English, Study Skills, Maths, Biology, Physics, Art, History, PE and Games, Careers, Word Attack, Keyboarding, ICT, Chemistry, Geography, French, Design & Technology, Music, PSHE. The choice of GCSE subjects  is made after consultation between parents, teachers and pupils. Most take 7 or 8 subjects, including English Language, Maths and Double Science. Special provisions are made for pupils with dyslexia to enable them to fairly compete with non dyslexic pupils. For example, extra time may be given in exams. Our 6th formers are encouraged to develop independence and identity and need not wear uniform. They can choose from a variety of different subjects which can be studied at Shapwick School. To offer even more choice we have developed a link programme with Bridgwater College, a large FE college offering post-16 provision. Students have the opportunity to take GNVQ's at all levels, AS and A2 Levels. A designated member of staff at the college has the role of link tutor, the purpose being to prepare potential school leavers for the different demands of college life. An integral part of this programme is the tutorial support available at Edington and Shapwick. This programme allows pupils to remain at the school even if they opt for college life, and we have found it to work very well.