16-19 Provision
Welcome to The Annexe
Since September 2008 we have been offering personalised learning journeys for selected 16 – 19 year old students. All our students have a variety of additional learning needs and are entitled to continue their education with us until the age of 19.
In our most recent OFSTED inspection we achieved an ‘Outstanding’ grade in all areas. The inspectors said “The sixth form is good and gives pupils ample opportunities to prepare for life after school.” We have been based at the Annex, across the road from the main school, since 2015.
We aim to develop our students in a more
adult environment, away from younger children to prepare them more fully for life beyond school.
The Annexe enables us to uniquely provide for a maximum of 12 students. Staff and students have worked collaboratively to ensure this has been a successful and enjoyable venture and we are constantly seeking ways to improve our offer
to local young people.
Our code of conduct is very simple:
Respect yourself and others at all times
Outline of the week
The students’ day at school begins at 9 a.m. although they can arrive from 8.45 to settle in, and complete individual tasks before the formal day begins . The day ends at 3 p.m.
This is a very general idea of how our time is
spent:
40 – 60% – formal teaching and learning, Gateway qualifications and awards
20– 30% – practical provision on or off site, including fitness sessions
Up to 20% – work experience and/or community work
Daily opportunities for reflection and 1:1 discussions
Teaching and Learning
Our aim has always been to deliver the most suitable curriculum for each student; thus enabling them to progress confidently and happily into society as well rounded independent individuals.
As a school we have long recognised that the choices for our students, post 16, are limited. Our aim is to bridge the gap for students not yet able to access the courses currently offered by mainstream schools and colleges in Southend and surrounding areas.
Students are taught together for the most part, but split into mixed groups for Art and Cookery and into ability groups for tailored courses which develop their work, life and social skills.
We currently offer ASDAN, and Gateway courses.
To enable our students to develop as citizens of the local community we focus on four main areas
Developing independence
Developing character
Developing understanding
Developing community
Students are taught about rights and responsibilities and encouraged to travel and
look after themselves with as much independence as possible.
We support our students to explore their own areas of interest through taught subjects and making their own choices.
We aim to deliver a broad menu of subjects incorporating functional skills. Subjects available include: English; Maths; Wellbeing; Fitness; Practical and Creative skills; Work Skills/Citizenship; and Cookery and Art.
Our students are involved in organising events, such as coffee mornings, a Car Wash
Enterprise, and a yearly Christmas Grotto for younger students . They also take part in community action groups to keep the local environment safe and tidy.
When restrictions allow, our students are lucky enough to have twice yearly residential
trips, on the Summer trip they always take part in a local community project. These have included an OAP social afternoon in Norfolk,
and maintaining public areas at an otter and owl sanctuary in Suffolk.
Dress code
Lunches
Work experience
Visits
Students choose their own clothes but must always be mindful that they are representing the school and need to be comfortable to work practically AND in class.
With this in mind –
* NO inappropriate slogans on t-shirts or jumpers;
*NO ripped jeans
Our students are encouraged to present themselves appropriately and neatly at all times.
There is no set uniform for Fitness sessions as this will depend on the chosen activity.
Students pay £15 per week to spend on lunches, which they make themselves; a meal cooked by students;
daily drinks, fruit and snacks
Students engage in weekly work experience opportunities both inside and outside of school. These are arranged with the student’s aspiration in mind.
We welcome visitors by appointment and look forward to meeting you in the near future.