We caught up with her to find out what she has enjoyed most over the past twelve months, what exciting new plans she's got in store for our Sixth Form Centre and the warm message she has for our new Year 12's joining us in September...
1. It's been one year since you began your position as Director of Sixth Form at Redmaids' High, has there been a particular highlight from these past twelve months?
There have been so many highlights! I can't believe a year has flown by already. Sports Day to House Events, the amazing concerts and performances, Sixth Form ice skating and movie nights and just getting to spend my time with such a fabulous bunch of people. Every day brings laughter and fun alongside the more serious academic business. Founders' Day has to be up there as a very special memory; taking part in the Crypt service for the first time and marching with the Sixth Form Community to the cathedral is such a surreal and special experience. I don't think I'll ever get tired of it.
2. Can you tell us about some of the changes you have implemented in the Sixth Form over the past year?
Over the past twelve months we have put a new team and structure in place in the Sixth Form with a view to developing our support of all students both pastorally and academically. We've changed the tutoring set up to allow for regular one-to-one mentoring conversations to happen between students and tutors, reflecting more the sort of relationship they can expect to develop with their tutors at university or in the workplace.
We've also broadened the range of activities offered as part of the Sixth Form Activities Afternoon so students can undertake volunteering in the community, self-defence, mountain biking or get involved in our own radio station, as well as participate in the more traditional sports we offer such as netball and hockey.
We have also recently introduced an internal volunteering expectation where our Year 12 students work with the younger years for an hour every fortnight, sharing their own expertise and helping to support them where they can. They have absolutely thrown themselves into it and I know just how much it is appreciated.
3. What is the best part about Redmaids' High Sixth Form?
That's an easy one! It's got to be the students and community. The Sixth Form has such a different feel to the rest of the school. It's so hard to describe to people, but once you've experienced it for yourself you'll know what I mean. I don't think you'll find a more diverse, inclusive and welcoming bunch of people. There is someone for everyone and whether you are new to the school or have been with us since Year 3, you are welcomed with open arms. The relationship between teachers and students is one of mutual respect and it is such a positive place to be.
4. What are you most proud of from the last year?
I am so proud of the mutually supportive community that we have in our Sixth Form. When Year 12 joined us last September, a little nervous and not sure what to expect, Year 13 reached out and welcomed them with open arms, proactively encouraging them to get involved, they truly were their biggest cheerleaders. Fast forward a few terms and the roles have reversed; it was our Year 12 students who supported Year 13 in January during mock week; putting up supportive posters, cheering them on and providing plenty of tea and cake which always goes down well!
5. What are you most looking forward to as you begin your second year in post?
Doing it all again! Going through a full year as Director of Sixth Form has been busy but I know each year will be different and as students leave us for their chosen apprenticeship, university or job, a new cohort comes through keen to make their mark and find their place. Watching students find their own sense of self and their direction is one of the most rewarding parts of the job. I love that they try new things, experiment with who they want to be and support each other throughout.
6. Are there any exciting plans for the Sixth Form that you can share with us?
We are currently finalising plans for a refurbishment of the Sixth Form Centre including the common room and the library. We've had student and staff input and are looking to create an enriching and enabling space that allows students to work and play. We've got 'living walls', sofas, booths and high benches, as well as 'zoned' areas with funky rugs and lighting. The plans look incredible and have been positively received by the Sixth Formers. Hopefully by September, it'll be ready for us to move in!
7. Finally, do you have a message for students who will be joining Redmaids' High Sixth Form this September?
Welcome! You are so welcome here and we are looking forward to having you join us. Within a matter of weeks, it will feel like you have been here for ever! We will take time in September to induct all of our new students into the Sixth Form, we'll help you settle and have a lot of fun along the way (this year we did 'Locked In A Room' and ZaZa Bazaar for lunch). You will be up to speed in no time at all and whether you've been with us right from the start in Year 3 or you join us for the first time in Year 12 for your final two years of school, everyone will be here to support you and help you make the most of the many opportunities available. We can't wait to meet you and I really hope you love it here as much as I do.
For more about life in our Sixth Form please click HERE.