Mill School Bury enjoyed a ‘bumper’ crop of impressive exam results over the summer, including one student achieving a top ‘9’ grade in English Language. The school is not only focused on academic results, offering a broad curriculum designed to offer all young people the chance to shine and achieve their potential. Headteacher Deborah Morley tells us more:
“There was lots to celebrate at Mill School over the summer. The Year 11 leavers moved on to their next steps with a range of qualifications including GCSEs and BTECs as well as prestigious accreditations. Before they came to the school, many had very disruptive educational journeys and these achievements are particularly significant for them.
“While of course we were incredibly proud of the young person whose hard work and determination earned them a Grade 9, we were proud of each and every one of our pupils. They left with an average of more than eight qualifications each and 100% left with a maths qualification. A brilliant 88% achieved qualifications in Maths, English and Science.
“As a school we offer an incredibly broad curriculum, very similar to that available in a mainstream environment. We offer GCSEs and BTECs, we offer languages such as Spanish, Design & Technology and Art & Design, English, Maths, History, Computer Technology, Science and Music as well as Home Cooking Skills.
“However, we know the academic approach does not suit every child. That’s why we also offer a more vocational approach, but one which still brings with it meaningful qualifications to be achieved. We have a well-established Outdoor Education offer which is extremely well engaged with.
“Pupils work towards Duke of Edinburgh and John Muir awards. There’s also Sports Leaders Awards, Arts Awards, Open Awards, life skills and home cooking skills. Our curriculum increasingly is incorporating those softer living skills, skills that will be important for the children’s independence as they get older.
“We’re always seeking to make learning real and relevant for pupils too. A recent Spanish trip saw children visit a local Spanish restaurant where they had the chance to speak the language with the waiting staff, bringing learning to life.
“We are ambitious for the children at Mill School Bury and we know that by offering a curriculum which offers them the chance to achieve the qualifications that are important to them – whether that’s a GCSE or BTEC or learning a life skill – we want them to have what they need to take their positive next step.
“That was certainly the case this year when we saw our Year 11 leavers go on to study A levels at local mainstream sixth forms as well as take up places in local colleges on child care, sports and vocational courses in both mainstream and specialist settings.
“We are incredibly proud of them all.”