Over recent weeks myself, Miss Poncia and Mr Sprakes have met with every parent / legal guardian of the current Y6 students that will start Year 7 at XP East in August 2019. These meetings normally last around 20/30 minutes and allow both parties to begin to form a relationship that will hopefully last 7 years (if students choose to study at our 6th form).
A common question that I posed at the beginning of these meetings was ‘Why did you choose XP East?’ The many varied responses revolved around the positive reputation of the school, the deliberately sized classes, and the blend of high academic standards with the emphasis on character growth. However, a common response centred around our Open Evenings – but it was nothing that I said or did during these events that swayed their opinions. In fact, it was what our existing Y7 and Y8 students said and did that made the difference!
Nearly every parent spoke about how impressed they were with the students that spoke and attended. Remember, I never handpick the students that attend such events as I *always* openly invite the entire school. In fact, I encouraged those parents that attended the Open Evening to ask existing students any question that they needed answers to and they would tell them the truth. How many other secondary schools do this?!!
Parents went on to explain that they were surprised at just how confident students were when explaining how our school does things slightly differently, and how students felt that they were always supported and encouraged.
After my first question, discussions followed about the new Y7’s first day at Outward Bound in Wales, any particular educational special needs, medical issues etc. I also emphasised that just as we as a school have high expectations of parents, they too should high expectations of myself and our staff. It is within this context that we shall do whatever it takes to ensure that our students feel safe, and supported, and as a result they will go onto create beautiful work and become the best versions of themselves.
Next stop as part of our transition process, our Learning Coaches will visit every single student in their Primary school setting in order to find out how we can support them from their very first day.
See you on the 2nd July for the Y6/Y7 transition day everyone!