General Aims

• To integrate, socially and academically, any 13+ entry pupil with those from the Lower School
• To maintain a full range of activities with equal access for any 13+ entry pupils, particularly in sport and team selection
• To develop further the pupils' ability to self-direct their studies in preparation for GCSE coursework
• To provide the pastoral support and PSHE guidance appropriate to these adolescent years
• To help pupils in Year 9 make their GCSE choices in relation to future studies and career opportunities
• To support pupils through the GCSE years (Years 10 & 11)
• To prepare pupils for transfer to the Sixth Form and 'A' Level study

Pupils continue from Year 8 into Year 9, with a small number of new 13+ entrants joining at Year 9. Years 10 & 11 are the two years for the GCSE course. Since there are then several subject options in Years 10 & 11, the pupils are only taught as a form in English, PE and PSHE. The form is therefore a pastoral unit in the Middle School.

Particular emphasis is given to creating an ethos of working in partnership with pupils in this Division, helping pupils to develop a sense of responsibility for their own planning, studies and involvement in activities. Considerable support and guidance is given on completing coursework assignments, preparing for GCSE examinations and updating personal records of achievement.

Form tutors in the Middle School are particularly concerned about guiding pupils through the adolescent years, the transition from being a junior school pupil to becoming a Sixth Form student preparing for university.