English Vision
Our School Aims perfectly capture our Vision for English.
Achieve beyond expectations –
Every term, pupils build up to producing a piece of English Portfolio work that is, where possible, of a standard higher than that at which they would regularly work. Very high standards of English are also maintained in all other pieces of portfolio work. High-level oracy skills are showcased through the many films on the school website.
Be proud of our community, our school, our achievements and our peers –
English is celebrated with pride in Friday Celebration Assemblies, when English Graduates are regularly rewarded and when pupils are applauded for reading in their own time. Children’s English homework is rewarded with golden stickers, which are displayed with pride. A Swinemoor Stories book is published annually, celebrating all pupils’ writing skills. Pupils take pride in all performances, such as Christmas plays.
Compete, with the belief that we have every chance of success –
‘Swinemoor Stories’ is an annual writing competition. There is also an annual Public Speaking competition. University Challenge, on the final week of the school year, includes English Graduates who compete for a trophy.
Develop a culture where we take appropriate risk, understanding this is how people learn, grow and achieve things they thought were too difficult –
English lessons regularly include opportunities to recall, recite and perform pieces. Pupils take risks in oracy work, especially through the medium of Chatta. Children take appropriate risks daily when discussing a text and giving their own viewpoint as well as when sharing their writing ideas.
Enable people to work together, in order to achieve more than we could on our own –
English lessons regularly include paired as well as some group work. Peer-editing is a key skill that pupils learn.
“We like the fact that the children’s work/plays are able to be seen on the website and I think the teacher’s end of term videos are a great addition.”
“I like everything about the school. My child has made excellent progress.”
“My daughter likes Swinemoor because she says ‘everyone is friendly’. I like it because all children are included and have the confidence to compete and challenge anyone.”
“I am impressed with the teaching at this school and pushing the kids into doing work they are capable of.”
“Since starting Swinemoor my son has come on in leaps and bounds and in just a short time. I am looking forward to the further progress.”
“The enthusiasm of the staff and the fact my child has been encouraged to learn whilst being allowed to progress at his own speed.”
“Always giving our children a challenge. Always pushing them harder, not taking satisfactory, but aiming high!.”
“All of the shows/ performances are so professional and we feel welcomed coming into school. I think the school instills confidence and high self esteem in pupils.”
“Keep encouraging sport such as football and netball..”
“How the children progress and where necessary they are given help to achieve that progress.”
“The fact they have a very modern approach to their teaching and the headmaster is very much involved and isn’t scared to get his hands dirty and interacts very well with all the staff and children.”
“Progress of the children and if and when necessary they are given extra help.”
“The respect both pupils and staff have for one another shows all around the school. It’s a very happy place to be.”
“We really enjoy all the school performances that parents are invited to.”
“I love the fact that the children and staff love being there and are so proud of their school.”
“Staff are welcoming and willing to help/listen. Child always seems happy.”
“That the children are very proud of their work and teachers make sure they are rewarded.”
“Very happy with everything the school does. Loved the Christmas plays – both of them.”
“Strong headteacher. Caring and intelligent teachers. Good curriculum. Good discipline.”
” It’s a really good school with high achievers and high standards from the pupils. Very helpful if I’ve had a problem.”
“The way that my child has improved 100% from last school.”
“The school is very clean and staff well dressed. Its nice when visiting to see all the work on display and to hear the excellent comments from the kids about their day.”
“That each child’s needs are met, a great understanding (SEN)”
“Teaching staff in Y 5/6 who really challenge the children and move them forward.”
” It’s a really good school with high standards and high achievers.”
“My daughter is making fantastic progress. The two performances I have seen have been excellent (Harvest and Christmas).”
“Competitions that occur each half term.”