SUMMER SCHOOL 2021

Aim:

To plan and deliver a summer school to support the transition of the new Year 7 Cohort for 2021.

Objectives:

To provide a varied and inspirational programme of academic and enrichment opportunities around the theme of Inclusion.

To promote positive relationships with school for students and parents.

To create opportunities for early identification of barriers to learning for vulnerable students.

Date:

Monday 26th – Friday 30th July 2021

Funding received

34,560.43

Spend breakdown

Staffing & planning – 22,280.03

Session resources and workshops – 10,133.69

Food & Catering – 1723.71

Site costs – 412.00

What did we do?

From 26th – 30th July 2021 we opened our doors to 184 of our new Year 7 students to welcome them to RWBA in style with our Summer School. The aim of the week was to provide opportunities to support the transition from primary school to secondary school and to develop important academic skills and knowledge. The theme of the week was ‘No Outsiders’ which promoted themes of inclusion and diversity. Our sessions were planned with this in mind and all the activities during the week promoted the core values of the Bassett Way.

What activities were on offer?

Our experienced and specialist staff planned fun yet challenging lessons from across the curriculum. We had sessions from English, Maths, Science, Geography, Ethics and Philosophy, DT, Music, Drama and PE that gave the students a taste of our broad curriculum. This helped to refresh knowledge and learn knew skills ready for when they joined us in September. We were also lucky enough to enjoy many enrichment activities and took part in workshops from RPA Performing Arts who taught sessions in dance and theatrical make up and Circus Sensible wowed us all with some incredible circus skills.

What were the benefits of attending Summer School?

We were able to offer face-to-face transition support which was vital as we were unable to conduct our usual induction week due to COVID.
We were able to get to know the students who attended and identify additional needs earlier. This has helped us to ensure they are properly supported now they are students at the school
Students were able to begin school in September feeling more confident and with pre-existing relationships with teaching staff and their peers.
Including a range of academic sessions blended with enrichment opportunities meant that the students really enjoyed the experience whilst learning new skills.

What did our parents say?

“This was a huge success. We really appreciate you going that extra mile to introduce the children to the school”

“Thank you RWBA for a fantastic week. It has given the children confidence and new friendships to start Year 7 in September.”

"This has really helped to make [my son] feel part of RWBA already. Such a brilliant school and a fab week."