Westside School, 3-7 Third Avenue, London, W10 4RS

tEACHING & learning

Curriculum content

The curriculum for our Key Stage 4 GCSE Programme incorporating the following subject areas:

  • GCSE English
  • GCSE Mathematics
  • GCSE Citizenship
  • GCSE ICT
  • GCSE Art
  • GCSE History
  • GCSE Science
  • French
  • PSHE incorportating dance and drama
  • Physical Education (Sport Leadership programme)

Opportunity and access

The programme is outlined above is available to all students who would benefit from alternative educational opportunities. We hope that schools or LEAs will allow their students the opportunity to choose this programme should it be suited to their needs, interests and ambitions.

Westside School has detailed policies for equal opportunities for students of both genders and from all ethnic, cultural and religious groups and those with physical disabilities whilst addressing issues relating to stereotyping, discrimination and harassment.

Our class sizes do not exceed 10 students. We provide a great deal of individual attention in our curriculum. Students work in a calm and focussed environment with a high degree of teacher support.

We aim to provide on-site mentoring and access to in-house counselling.

Teaching and learning approaches

We promote effective learning within all programmes: both theoretical and practical learning opportunities. Where appropriate students are provided with work placements with supportive employers in the summer time after exams.

Learning outcomes are relevant and differentiated for the needs of all students. An initial Student Education Plan is agreed at the commencement of study and is reviewed thereafter every 4 weeks. Action/Outcomes in the plan need to be matched against qualifications sought and agreed by both student and Westside School.

Staff within Westside School provide curriculum guidance to students. This is vital to ensure that the basic course and qualification strategy dovetail for the future aims of the student. Reviews of progress ensure flexibility for both parties to accommodate change. Attempts are made to use other approved local educational providers to augment the educational opportunities.

Students receive ongoing feedback on all work undertaken and progress is measured against the initial and subsequent Student Education Plans.

Meeting the needs of students on joining Westside School

All students receive an induction after acceptance. The induction covers:

  • Initial assessment
  • Introduction to the building and key staff
  • Health & Safety
  • Medical history
  • Equal Opportunities
  • Contract details and conditions
  • Code of Conduct Contract
  • Health & Safety/Equal Opportunities
  • Timetable
  • Travel/lunch benefits
  • Contact details and actual start date

Progression

The programme clearly establishes individual aims for students. Students completing Year 11 undertake a detailed Exit Plan. The plan identifies post Year 11 options and actions required. The plan is worked upon extensively during the summer term.

During the summer term and at the conclusion of studies all students receive impartial assessment and guidance via our local Connexions service. This is particularly important for students of 11.

We also provide CV and interview training for Year 11s after exams.

Accreditation

All GCSE courses offered within the programmes at Key Stage 4 are accredited by Oxford, Cambridge and RSA Exam Board. The Westside School is an approved examination centre.

Partnerships

The Westside School is committed to and working in partnership with:

  • Westminster LEA
  • Kensington & Chelsea LEA
  • Borough wide schools
  • Pupil referral units within local boroughs
  • Other providers offering alternative education programmes
  • Local colleges
  • Careers and Connexions
  • Child and Family Consultation Services
  • Social Services


Miscellaneous

The school's safeguarding policy is available on request.

Any formal complaint can be directed to the School