All pupils are closely monitored in their classrooms and if any specific learning difficulties are identified that require specific support classroom intervention will be undertaken in order that pupils learn at an optimum level. The majority of pupils are catered for in the classroom by teachers who have regular in-service training on teaching pupils with a wide variety of abilities.

Further intervention may be undertaken in small groups in the recently refurbished lodge. We also offer one-to-one tuition to pupils who may require this at an additional fee. Teachers from the Dyslexia Institute visit on a regular basis and can provide specialist tuition for pupils.

Priory School provides for a wide range of learning difficulties including dyslexia, dyscalculia, dyspraxia and communication difficulties.

We offer a warm, safe and caring environment for every pupil with the support and discipline which will enable them to achieve their full potential during their school career - to make them feel successful and valued.

Our House system promotes healthy competition, academically and physically, and Merit marks are awarded for good work and praiseworthy achievements. 

A vertical tutor group system operates at Priory in which tutor groups are comprised of students from all the year groups.  This new system replicates within the school the principle of the extended family where everyone looks out for one another. The benefits of vertical year groups include more friends across the years, a reduction in bullying, a greater sense of house identity and the opportunity for younger students to be supported and helped by older students.

A well-coordinated PSHE programme is delivered weekly by the form tutors.  All pupils are aware that an open door policy exists.  They know they can discuss their problems with any member of staff at any time. 

 

A range of extra curricular activities and after school clubs are on offer in the Senior School including:

• Dance Academy
• Biology, Chemistry and Physics Workshops
• Netball
• Speech
• Cheerleading
• Design and Technology club
• Orchestra
• Choir
• Jazz Band
• Gymnastics
• Drama
• Priory Mile (Walks and Runs)
• European Culture Club
• French Book Club
• Art club
• Music theory Club
• Literature and Film Club
• Duke of Edinburgh Awards

 The Gifted and Talented are defined by the DFES as a cohort of between 5% and 10% of a school’s population who excel in either the core curriculum subjects or display potential in Art, Music, PE or the Performing Arts.

At Priory School we aim to invest heavily in the pursuit of excellence and achievement for all our children. We all have the ability to shine in some way, given the right opportunities, experiences and support. We ensure that children who have a particular gift or talent are exposed to extra challenges. We offer a wider curriculum choice so that more young people are motivated by study that stretches and interests them. Initiatives so far have included Saturday clubs, university link days and field trips.

In class, a variety of strategies are being utilised to stretch our high achievers: challenge tables, puzzle clubs and critical thinking.  At Preparatory level children identified as potential grammar school candidates are given extra tuition and support whilst at senior level many students take GCSEs a year early or study an Open University module during their A-level course.