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Latest news from schools in Devon
Updated 2/8/2015
The Maynard School
The Maynard School, the South West’s leading independent girls’ school, is to open its doors to a new generation. Girls aged 4-7 will be welcomed from September 2016.
The Governors are absolutely delighted that Britain’s third oldest girls’ school is able to respond to growing demand from its parent body and are committed to investing in the future success and development of the school.
“This exciting development will complete the Maynard family, giving younger girls the opportunity to enjoy the quality and breadth of an outstanding Maynard education.” explained Bee Hughes, Headmistress.
The Maynard continues to achieve outstanding academic results, being ranked 31st nationally in the 2014 Government League Tables for GCSE and 40th nationally for the percentage of A-level students achieving Grade AAB or above in two or more facilitating subjects. 58% of girls achieved A* or A grades at A level in 2014, with 91% of girls gaining offers from their first choice of University.
From September 2016, pupils from Reception to Year 2 will be taught by specialist teachers who will nurture and inspire the girls through a dynamic, creative and forward-looking curriculum. The existing Junior School facilities will be redeveloped, with the first phase to take place this summer. The school’s expansion will begin in September 2015 when the first Year 2 girls will be welcomed into the Junior School. Find the Maynard School in Denmark Road, Exeter, EX1 1SJ. Visit www.maynard.co.uk
Clyst Vale Community College
Clyst Vale Community College is a mixed 11-18 Academy, in a rural location on the outskirts of Exeter. Students at Clyst Vale perform above national averages academically. Clyst Vale is characterised by excellent relationships between students and staff, and its inclusion; students of all abilities progress well. The College provides a broad and balanced curriculum at all key stages, with a focus on both academic and practical/vocational courses. In 2014, 80% of students achieved A*-C at GCSE level, and 71.5% achieved 5+ A*-C at GCSE including English and Maths. At A-level 47.5% of students achieved A*-B. Clyst Vale is committed to promoting Science and Technology, achieving national recognition. It is also noted for success in the performing arts and in sport. Clyst Vale’s curriculum is broad and balanced, with wide choices of GCSE and A/AS level subjects. It is home to the Hearing Support Centre for Exeter and East Devon, a Library and Broadclyst Sports Hall, occupying a pleasant spacious campus with extensive playing fields. To experience the true feel of Clyst Vale, a visit is recommended. Its Open Evening is on Tuesday 15 September 2015 at 6.00pm, with organised tours in the week beginning Monday 5 October 2015. To make an individual visit at a different time, contact 01392 461407.
Great Torrington School
Do you want your child’s aspirations raised in their first year of secondary school? Then you may wish to consider Great Torrington School where, in Year 7, they will build a plane – yes, a real one; visit Exeter University to take part in a medical disaster protocol simulation; plan and deliver a Frankenstein art installation and much more.
This award-winning school is in the top 6% nationally for improving pupils’ performance and its exciting and innovative Year 7 Learner’s Baccalaureate is highly commended by the SSAT (Specialist Schools and Academies Trust) and the AQA (Assessment and Qualifications Alliance).
Great Torrington School is a learning-centred school, nurturing, challenging and inspiring all its students to make outstanding progress in both their learning and personal development to GCSE and beyond. School Open Day Tours will take place every morning at 9am from
Monday 21 to Friday 25 September. Its Open Evening will be on Tuesday 22 September from 6-8pm. Visit www.gts.devon.sch.uk
South Dartmoor Community College
South Dartmoor has a well-deserved reputation as one of Devon’s leading schools; it is extremely proud of the education and opportunities it provides. With an academic offer that has seen 4 consecutive years of the best exam outcomes in the school’s history, its journey starts with an extensive transition programme. Its care and focus upon each individual is enhanced through strong pastoral care and teaching.
South Dartmoor has a specialist focus on sport – from a vast extra-curricular programme to an elite sports academy. It is the only SW College that has a partnership with the Chelsea FC Foundation and it is particularly proud of its girl’s cricket team who have made two National Finals in 2 years and its hockey team, who were national indoor champions – all competing against both the state and private sector.
The Performing Arts are central to College life, with students committed to many ensembles and performances throughout the year. It benefits from dedicated specialist facilities and offers a wide range of opportunities from an Annual production, Percussion Academies, Contemporary Dance, instrumental tuition and more.
The school is further enhanced by having one of the best sixth forms regionally which enables it to offer the full 11-18 experience, and have students gaining Oxbridge places annually. It believes in developing students with good learning habits who are curious, creative and courageous learners, driven by personal responsibility. As such, it encourages students to shape their own future. Visit www.southdartmoor.devon.sch.uk