We have a set of Swanshurst Values which are at the heart of all we do. We aim to develop learners who are:
We also ensure our students understand the 'fundamental British values' of
Such key values are recognised via the school's recognition system. Students are rewarded points electronically via EdLink each time they demonstrate a Swanshurst Value; this could be inside and/or outside the classroom. Certificates and badges are rewarded on the basis of points.
As a school we run a formal end of year Rewards Evening. Parents are invited and this gives the school an opportunity to celebrate individual successes made throughout the year.
At KS3 the top 50 students with the most recognition points, get to enjoy a film and popcorn event in school. To be considered, students also need to have 96% attendance and good behaviour.
Outstanding attendance/behaviour is key to academic success and as a school we recognise outstanding attendance through the 100% attendance club initiatives; students are recognised for this formally in an end of year celebration, they are presented with a badge and certificate and students also enjoy a tea party which takes place at the end of the year. Outstanding attendance is also recognised via:
Heads of Year regularly send postcards home in recognition of individual successes. Each Head of Year runs their own special reward initiative, for example we currently have a VIP reward. This is where students are nominated by their teacher and the most deserving, as determined by their form tutor, gets the award. This is done each fortnight; students received a badge and certificate which is awarded in an assembly.
Each department nominates a “subject person of the month award”. The name of this student is celebrated via the school website and students are presented with a certificate in an assembly. Subjects also have Swanshurst Value Recognition boards which celebrate such successes. Departments issue postcards home and teachers promote verbal praise in and around school and written praise is evident in books.