The Academy opened to our first cohort of Year 7 students in September 2008. Parents choosing Wren for 2009 will be able to visit our newly completed buildings and see our students and staff at work. We hope you will be impressed by our facilities and by the attitude and enthusiasm of the Wren community.
Wren's curriculum is innovative, exciting and inclusive. Our expectations for all students are extremely high. The learning culture enables young people to work in a range of different styles and to progress according to their capabilities. Communication with parents is regular and helpful. The Academy encourages the wider development of young people as learners and citizens – for example through enrichment activities and participation in our student council. All of these things take place within a clear Christian ethos.
As you may know, one of the distinctive features of Wren is that, while we are a mixed school, core curriculum subjects are taught in single sex classes. We believe this approach builds the confidence and maximises the achievements of our young people.
The Academy will grow gradually, from 2008, adding a new year group annually until we reach Year 13 in 2014.
Our Academy specialism is Design and the Built Environment, which will be integrated across all subjects. It will enhance, but never dominate, the other elements of our curriculum and personal development work. Our specialism is an important concern for anyone living in today's world, and I see engaging with it as a great benefit for any conscientious and aware young person.
Reflecting our specialism, Wren already has the first phase of a superb building, most of it brand new. The second, and final, phase of building work to be completed by the Autumn of 2009 will give us an Academy which is architecturally innovative and attractive. The design will make it possible to offer a range of teaching and learning approaches, providing students with variety and challenge. Social spaces will be comfortable, safe and stimulating. ICT facilities will be modern and plentiful in order to enhance learning and parental involvement. We want students to believe that they 'own' the Academy building and to feel a sense of affection and responsibility for it from their first day.
Most importantly, I am delighted by the high calibre of the people we have working for the success of Wren Academy. Our teaching staff are of an extremely high quality and determined to make Wren Academy a resounding success. In addition, enthusiastic and committed parents have already declared their allegiance to the new school. Support from local primary schools has been overwhelming. Many of our primary partners are outstanding schools, and Wren will build upon their foundations as students make the transition to secondary education. Our sponsors, the London Diocese and Berkhamsted Collegiate School, have excellent track records in developing and sustaining successful education.
I hope you will come to share my belief that Wren will be an exceptional place – either to attend as a student or to work in as an adult. We hope you decide to apply for a place.
Michael Whitworth, Principal |
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