Strong, positive relationships are critically important to provide a safe, secure environment in which all pupils can be happy and successful. The ethos of the school is based on a strong community, maintaining a climate of mutual respect with big dreams and hard work contributing to pupil success.
We believe that all members of the school community should have an equal opportunity to participate fully in the life of the school, free from discrimination or harassment of any kind. Furthermore, a well-ordered, disciplined working environment is a prerequisite for pupils being able to meet the aspirational targets that are set for their educational success.
The school’s core values and expectations of ‘Respect the CTA Way’ is a golden thread through all of our work. Great importance is placed on rewarding positive behaviour in relation to this code and this is built into the school’s house and rewards system. Where conduct falls short of these expectations, steps are taken to address the issue and measures are put in place to prevent repetition. A very firm line is taken on bullying, with swift intervention, clear communication and appropriate action taken.
“I love it at CTA. My teachers try to encourage me when things are tough. I’m a part of lots of clubs and a Pupil Leader already. I was worried about the change from primary school but I have settled in really well”
Oliver, Year 7 pupil
Transition
Transition from Primary to Secondary school is an important milestone in a child’s educational journey, but can also be a period of time that creates anxiety. At Chase Terrace Academy, we try to alleviate as many of those anxieties as possible, through regular contact with primary schools and any agencies who may be working with pupils and families.
Once decisions regarding admission to Chase Terrace Academy have been made, we work closely with primary schools to gain as much information regarding pupils so that our Pastoral Support Team can meet any specific needs. We also offer further opportunities for pupils to meet with staff through our Induction days, and additional visits, that run in June and July.
Parents/carers are also part of the process and an evening is held to meet with Pastoral Staff and the Leadership Team, to receive more formal information regarding the school, its processes and expectations. This evening is also an opportunity for parents/carers to be able to address any outstanding concerns regarding learning or pastoral issues before transition takes place.
Transition packs are provided for parents/carers to have all information necessary to help with the transition process.
Pupil Support
At our school, every pupil has a form tutor who delivers Personal Development lessons and serves as the primary point of contact for both pupils and parents/carers. The form tutor is there to address any initial concerns and work with our Progress Teams to provide continuous support throughout the school year.
Our Progress Teams are linked to each year group and are readily available to assist pupils with any issues or to celebrate achievements. We encourage open communication between pupils, parents/carers, and our staff to ensure that any concerns are addressed promptly and effectively. Our goal is to foster a school environment that feels safe and supportive, whether your child is facing challenges at home or school.
During Key Stage 3, our Progress Teams help pupils transition smoothly into secondary school life. They provide guidance and support through to Year 9, when pupils begin selecting their GCSE subject options.
In Key Stage 4, the support continues as pupils work towards completing their GCSE examinations. Progress Teams assist pupils in considering future careers and making informed decisions about their post-16 education options.
With a daughter already in Year 8, I am delighted that our son will be starting in Year 7. The Senior Leadership Team is one I have great confidence in, and the school is one I would recommend. I love the community spirit, the opportunities available and I really feel that CTA offer something special.”
Prospective new parent/carer
In addition to providing support, our Progress Teams also play a key role in celebrating pupils’ successes. They nominate pupils for rewards evenings at the end of the school year, award house points for achievements, and lead assemblies to recognise and celebrate individual and group accomplishments.
Our Post-16 provision fosters a culture of positive relationships that extend throughout our school community. Sixth Form leaders actively engage with pupils in Key Stages 3 and 4 through diverse initiatives, including reading support programmes, presenting awards at Rewards Evenings, managing our community CATCH Hub, and coordinating activities during Sports Days. They are regarded as role models for pupils in the lower school and contribute significantly to school-wide events, exemplifying leadership and commitment within our thriving educational community.