Academy Ethos & Vision
Every moment of students’ time with us at Winterstoke Hundred Academy is precious; this experience is a key part of the journey that takes them from pre-school to future learning and study, and our role in this progression is important to us.
Our curriculum takes account of the past, is relevant to the present day and builds for the future. Our learners develop genuine expertise in their subjects and are simultaneously ready for the as yet unknown challenges of the future. We place emphasis on both the importance of a knowledge-rich curriculum, and also on the value of building learning habits to set students up as lifelong learners.
All staff are advocates for students, and represent their needs and interests at every opportunity. Staff recognise the importance of their role and the role of others in the success of the Academy. Staff also recognise and celebrate each other’s successes; we work together as a high-functioning team, built on trust and shared values.
Our smaller scale school-based Post 16 is supportive and nurturing, and is unique in Weston-super-Mare, giving students options and opportunities that haven’t previously existed in the town. We are an exceptional provider of both A levels, and of bespoke and innovative programs that meet the needs and broaden the horizons of our cohort.
We work hard to ensure pupils feel safe, supported and valued at our school. We want them to be proud to be Winterstoke Hundred Academy pupils and to embrace the curriculum and opportunities presented to them. Students have access to great facilities in and around the academy, and we work with local partners and businesses to give our students life-changing experiences that go beyond the walls of the school.
Responsibility for our environment is embedded throughout our curriculum; we are not just environmental custodians, but environmental leaders. Students are responsible for steering our approach through the eco-committee, and we aim to be a gold-standard eco-school early in our journey as a school.
We believe deeply in each other’s ability and capacity to succeed, and we believe strongly that grit, resilience and hard work are better determinants for future success than prior ability or background. We believe that the life skills of attendance, punctuality, politeness and respect are core characteristics that will serve us all well in our endeavours.
Fundamental to our identity is the importance of equity and equality. We systematically identify and work to reduce and remove barriers to opportunities that disadvantage brings, and ensure that regardless of background or previous experience, all our students are ready to excel.
