October 1, 2024
Tom Bennett, our Deputy Head Academic, and Elizabeth Robinson, our Director of Sixth Form, discuss the collective effort that helps our brilliant girls achieve outstanding exam results.
Ms Robinson: “It’s really all about getting to know each individual. And, during the course of the two years, continuing to track her progress as well as understanding her aspirations.”
Mr Bennett: “Yes, because our students are fantastic – ambitious, full of potential, curiosity and passion, who are willing to be stretched and challenged, and not afraid to try and fail.”
Ms Robinson: “Lots of one-to-one conversations happen with students; backed by outstanding teaching across subjects.”
Mr Bennett: “Absolutely. Our staff are such an important part of the equation. These teachers really care: passionate experts in their fields with the time and energy to spark interest, challenge thinking, and push for excellence.”
Ms Robinson: “That’s why our teacher-student relationships are so strong – the girls always feel able to ask the right questions to develop their learning and understanding. And learning isn’t confined to the classroom – teachers also give their time in clubs and societies, support clinics, and individualised sessions. Alongside the academic side, we stress the need to embrace extra-curricular pursuits as a break from studying.”
Mr Bennett: “Yes, we work hard to give our students a balance between hard work and finding the time and space for creativity, sports and just the joy of being a teenager.”
Ms Robinson: “Achieving a good work/life balance is a message we’re constantly reiterating, including our enrichment sessions which focus on wellbeing.”
Mr Bennett: “What I’d never experienced before working at Withington was the magic of so many things producing these outstanding educational outcomes. At the root of everything is that learning is its own reward. Everyone’s achievements are celebrated and we have such a supportive and caring parent body to help support and nurture each individual pupil into resilient, independent learners. These synergies create an exciting, exhilarating place of learning.”
Ms Robinson: “I totally agree. Again, the entire staff team invest time in each individual. For instance, Faye Whiteley, our Psychology teacher, leads Study Skills sessions which reference the psychology behind methods. Plus, each department runs clinics to help with specific subject issues.”
Mr Bennett: “Success is always measured at the individual level and context. Instead of fixating on percentages of top grades at GCSE and A Level, we simply ensure that each student maximises her potential. We take snapshots of this potential at the beginning of each Key Stage, comparing them with students nationwide. So we aim for each student to do better here at Withington than they would do anywhere else.”
Ms Robinson: “We call this process ‘Value Added’, measuring success at an individual level. This means that students are never reduced to a statistic on a spreadsheet – they’re supported as individuals who matter equally.”
Ms Robinson: “It’s all about flexibility in our approach – if we see a need, we respond.”
Mr Bennett: “We’re fortunate that our school’s size is at that sweet spot where there are enough pupils for a critical mass of learning in every class, but every student is still known personally. So we can adapt teaching to their classes, and meet students’ needs within that environment. If an individual has a particular learning need, our teachers work closely with our excellent Learning Support department to make relevant adjustments.”
Ms Robinson: “Occasionally, pupils might have timetabled sessions to work specifically with the Learning Support department, to help consolidate their learning, or develop their learning skills. If pupils are falling behind, our first priority is to work out why.”
Ms Robinson: “For me, it is always about seeing the individual achieve their goals – knowing the story behind those results. And when students aren’t reaching their aims, it’s rewarding to help them formulate a new plan – often creating a more positive outcome than expected.”
Mr Bennett: “Results days are the best, especially seeing the joy on their faces. Knowing their personal stories, we see how each individual has dug deep and overcome significant challenges. Then there’s the realisation of these results unlocking the next steps towards success in their future lives. Sharing the collective relief and excitement with their proud parents is so special.”
Ms Robinson: “The love that our students have for the school is palpable. When they leave us, they become alumnae – and remain part of Withington forever.”
