Local
schools to specialise in science and sport
Two top local secondary schools will
become specialist schools in September
Gunnersbury
Catholic School and Isleworth and Syon School for Boys will specialise
in Science and Sport respectively, bringing the total number of specialist
schools in the borough to six, with the variety of specialisms now including
Language, Technology, Science and Sport.
Specialist schools offer additional focus to their chosen subject area
whilst continuing to meet National Curriculum requirements for all students.
The schools also partner other local schools to share experiences and
benefits.
John Heffernan, Headteacher of Gunnersbury Catholic School, said, �The
study of science and mathematics is very important in its own right and
it is essential for the continuing growth and development of the economy
if this country. Both science and mathematics have always been a strength
at Gunnersbury and we are ready to share our good practice and therefore
make a much greater contribution to the wider community. We look forward
to working with our partner schools and to making science and mathematics
exciting for all of our pupils. The new designation for Gunnersbury adds
to recent praise by the DfES for our improving attainment levels and will
help us to go from strength to strength.�
Euan Ferguson, Headteacher of Isleworth and Syon school for Boys, said,
�It has long been known that sport and physical activity has a beneficial
effect for classroom based learning, which means that our pupils will
benefit both inside the classroom and out. By taking on the additional
responsibilities as a specialist sports college we will not only be developing
upon our current good reputation for sports but also providing additional
opportunity and flexibility for students across Hounslow.�
Each school will receive additional funding from the government as part
of the specialist school package, amounting to an immediate £100,000
capital grant and £123 per pupil initially for four years. The funding
will go towards additional in-school time for the specialist subjects
as well as extra-curricular activities after school and at weekends.
Gunnersbury Catholic School is planning to refurbish and enhance the current
teaching facilities and laboratories, whilst Isleworth and Syon School
for Boys is developing plans to increase the breadth of activities available
to include orienteering and dance.
Chiswick
Community school had already secured funding to become a technology college.
July 2, 2003
Local schools face funding crisis
Chiswick
Community School to become technology college