In assemblies during the week ending 4th October, Mrs Timson, Assistant Headteacher, discussed “What does it mean to be independent?" Mrs Timson reminded students of how much support they needed as small children and then as they developed skills which gave them independence, like riding a bike and learning to read, the feeling of being able to do things for themselves gave them freedom, excitement and built character.

When applying this to school, students were given a list of easy things that they can do to take charge of their own learning and become more independent.
• Ask questions
• Take risks
• Make mistakes and learn from them
• Be resilient – bounce back
• Be organised. Pack their own bag, be on time, have the right equipment
• Further their subject reading
• Re-draft work
• Respond to feedback
• Revise for assessments

Focusing on the development of one thing each week is manageable for most students and her challenge was clear. Students should grab their opportunity for education with both hands!