Statement of Purpose

Dear Parent/Carer

The children at Sir Harry Smith have a secure and caring environment in which to learn and develop, and are valued as individuals. We want our students to become independent and confident young people who are sensitive to others, interested in the world around them and prepared for the challenges ahead. Ofsted inspected the college in November 2014, and their judgement is that we are a “good” school over all.

Specifically some Ofsted comments are worth highlighting:

• “Students say they feel safe and well supported at college”
• “Quality of teaching is good …..contributing to the good progress most students make”
• “The percentage of students achieving five or more GCSE passes at A* - C is above national average”

The whole college is proud of what Ofsted had to say about the college, its students and its qualities. Although Ofsted recognised that our exam results are good, the college will not become complacent, it remains our aim and desire to improve further, to become the best we can, and to encourage students to become the best they can. We are justly proud of our teaching and support staff, and encourage then to develop and improve. They are led and supported by an excellent Leadership Team, who ensure the provision of high quality teaching and learning, for the benefit of our students.

Governors come from a range of backgrounds, bringing skills and knowledge which helps the college, and a significant number of our governors are parent governors.

I believe that it is important that parents feel welcome at college. We strive for strong partnerships between home, college, parents and staff. That relationship helps to build confidence and development in students, and we depend on the co-operation and support of parents.

The college looks forward to welcoming yourself and your child in the near future, so that he or she can take the step to become the best they can be.

Paul Kosciecha
Chair of Governors