Focusing on the Individual
We attach great importance to getting to know pupils well and to ensuring that they are happy. Many of our pupils were the only person who came from their primary school, but from their first day at Townsend School they became part of our family. Our welcome and integration of new pupils has been frequently praised. Links with primary schools mean that all children will have met some members of staff and enjoyed meeting other new pupils during our annual ‘taster day’ before transferring. Parents/carers too will have had the opportunity to meet their child’s form tutor and the appropriate Director of Learning (Head of Year) before their child starts in September. We traditionally recruit students to Year 7 from over 60 different primary schools and from a very wide area of Hertfordshire, Luton, Bedfordshire and Barnet. Such is the quality of our work and our partnership with parents/carers that many parents/carers are happy to arrange for their child to travel relatively long distances to get to Townsend. Careful contact ensures that the move from primary school to Townsend School is smooth and that everyone settles in quickly.
We believe that students learn best in a calm, orderly and secure environment. Our behaviour code is illustrated in the ‘Respect for All’ policy and we expect high standards of conduct and courtesy. Discipline at Townsend is best described as ‘firm but fair’ with a range of appropriate sanctions if work or behaviour expectations are not met. We have a strict uniform policy, requiring our students to dress smartly and we look to parents/carers to support us in this.
A system of merits and rewards celebrates students’ achievements throughout the year. We believe that students thrive on praise and encouragement, and we work hard to ensure that every pupil leaves school with enhanced life changes and ready for the modern world because they came to Townsend.
‘There is a very positive ethos in the school. Relationships are good. The school is a happy place in which pupils can learn effectively and flourish.’
OFSTED Report
‘I love it here! I was nervous at first but I soon made friends. The teachers are really nice and make you feel at home’
Year 7 Student