Ethos

Pupils, Teachers and Parents as Partners

At the Duke of York’s we see pupils, teachers and parents as partners at our military academy and all parties are in a learning process which engenders and instils a level of maturity and responsibility in our Sixth Formers. This partnership approach helps them become successful, aspiring and self-assured young people.

An Inclusive Sixth Form

We are an inclusive Sixth Form; we deem every grade to be valuable if it represents the utmost that a student can achieve and we recognise that all A level subjects are equally demanding, but in different ways. Pupils have diverse needs and abilities, and we seek to reflect those differences in class by employing a range of teaching styles.

A Source of Strength for Pupils

Our ethos is to be a source of strength for pupils attending our military academy and encourage them to believe that they can achieve whatever they want. Sixth formers reap the rewards of the almost tangible supportive atmosphere created when young people have not only studied but also lived alongside each other, often for a number of years. They work in a friendly environment where they know the teachers and the teachers know them. And they enjoy excellent teaching from committed and skilful staff with a real enthusiasm for their subjects. It is hard work – but it is also exciting and highly rewarding.

Independent Learning and Study Skills

We ensure pupils are studying appropriately matched courses and we embed independent learning and study skills to help them through the transition from Year 11 to Year 12 and from Year 12 to Year 13. We want them to engage in and enjoy the wider life of the school, and we encourage positive working relationships with other students, subject teachers and other school staff.

We care about and support every pupil throughout their time in the Sixth Form. The Head of Sixth Form personally offers help and advice in a variety of ways through one-to-one interviews, mentoring and the continuous review of academic progress.

Students Are Part of an Elite Group

Our vision for the Sixth Form is for members to understand that they are part of an elite group who should be seen as the most confident, the most academically able, the most ambitious, determined and motivated. It is important for them to be aware that they are valued role models for the rest of the school.

Giving pupils more control over their lives within a mutually supportive environment helps them fulfil their potential and prepares them for life after the Sixth Form, whether in Higher or Further Education or employment.