How we know your child

The facilities are designed around the six Colleges which form the Thomas Deacon College structure. The Colleges provide small scale groupings for students, guaranteeing personal guidance and support. Each College has a team of tutors, and tutor groups which are composed of mixed year groups of between 16-20 students. Older students assist in supporting younger students. The College Leaders provide the direction to create an individual identity, with high expectations of all. Each College is supported by the Achievement Support team who work closely with individual students who may need additional support with their academic and social needs. For the students, the College provides a base where they are known and have a sense of belonging in a ‘small school’ environment. The smaller groupings also mean more opportunities to take part in activities such as special projects, arts and sports. Standards are monitored throughout the Academy to ensure consistency and quality.

Each College has children of all ages and abilities, and has its own distinctive identity within the Academy. Education of students is not restricted to their College – all the children are taught in all the Colleges and have access to all our facilities.

The relationship between parents and the College is most important. Parents are kept fully informed of their child’s progress through regular reports, and through the personal contact with the College Tutor. Parental involvement is part of the partnership agreement and we place significant emphasis and expectations on the positive relationship which will exist between the Academy and parents/carers. Your son/daughter’s progress and achievement is at the heart of the collegiate design and the relationship between parents and the College is crucial in this.

Culture and discipline

Thomas Deacon has a very clear Behaviour for Learning Policy. We are creating a culture of mutual respect where learning and achievement are celebrated. We have the highest expectations of the whole school community and this, alongside our rewards and sanctions, ensures teachers can teach and students can learn without interruptions.