Bedford Academy Prospectus Information Booklet

6 / 20

6 |
Teaching and Learning
Our philosophy of education means
that learning is considered to be a
partnership between students, staff
DQG SDUHQWV :H KDYH KLJK H[SHFWDWLRQV
for both staff and students.
At Bedford Academy lessons last for 1 hour
and 30 minutes. Our staff are trained in the
latest teaching and learning approaches so
that lessons are vibrant, active and support
students’ learning.The extended learning
time gives the opportunity for students to
be able to explore ideas, develop skills in
depth, and consolidate learning.
Our lessons are based on the following
principles:
STUDENT BASED PLANNING
All lessons are differentiated to ensure that
WXYHIRXW SJ EPP EFMPMXMIW ERH ETXMXYHI GER JYP½P
their potential. Students’ prior attainment and
potential are used to prepare lessons which
cater for their needs. Learning and lessons are
structured to ensure that students are placed
at the centre of learning.
VARIETY OF ACTIVITY
All lessons contain a variety of learning activities
and tasks to ensure that students are at all
times engaged and challenged. Students have the
opportunity to transfer and reinforce knowledge
and skills using a variety of techniques.
ACTIVE LEARNING
We aim to develop life-long learners and
independent thinkers.Active learning is central
to students’ experience in the classroom.At
Bedford Academy students are encouraged
to think, question and reason, to develop the
skills of independence and see the teacher
as a facilitator of learning.
Gifted and Talented
UNLOCKING POTENTIAL
Bedford Academy nurtures the talents of every
student.We recognise that some students are
especially talented in one area in particular,
such as sports or music, and that other students
have outstanding academic gifts across a wide
range of subjects.As part of our personalised
learning curriculum, these students take part
in the Gifted and Talented programme.The
programme incorporates a wide range of
enrichment activities, a stretching experience
in our classrooms, and close monitoring of each
student’s progress, achievement and participation.
“Being part of the Gifted and Talented
programme encourages us to reach
our full potential.”
Year 11 Student
CLASSROOM PROVISION
At Bedford Academy, we recognise that it is
important for Gifted and Talented students to
work at an appropriate pace and in a variety
of settings.We instil in our students the skills
and strategies that enable them to become
QSVI MRHITIRHIRX GVIEXMZI ERH WIPJ WYJ½GMIRX
searchers of knowledge.
“The Gifted and Talented programme challenges
you to try new things, mental & physical, learn
new skills and it’s a great way for like-minded
students to connect.”
Year 11 Student
ENRICHMENT
We offer a regular Gifted and Talented
enrichment programme as a key component
of the provision for Gifted and Talented students.
Our enrichment offering involves activities
outside of the normal classroom, which enable
our students to widen their experience and
HIZIPST WTIGM½G WOMPPW 3JXIR IRVMGLQIRX MW
led by our Gifted and Talented students for
like-minded students.
“The new Gifted and Talented enrichment is
great fun and a brilliant way of recognising
people’s talents outside of the classroom.”
Year 12 Student