RSA Academy makes the grade

This summer, the RSA Academy in Tipton received its best ever set of GCSE results – showing a marked improvement in standards since the school became an Academy in September 2008.

The number of students who gained at least five A* to C grades jumped from 63 percent in 2008 to 73 percent in 2009, with a particularly significant increase in the sciences: 80 percent in 2009 compared with 30 percent in 2008. These results exceeded the Academy’s targets for its first year. Reaching next year’s goal – to see 80 percent of GCSE students achieve A* to C grades – will demand even more dedication.

Principal Michael Gernon was delighted by the results, which show a strong foundation for growth. "They are a real credit to the hard work of staff, students and parents,” he said. “To have so many students achieve GCSE grades at the highest level is an amazing achievement for all concerned."

The past year has seen the implementation of the RSA’s Opening Minds curriculum framework, which is designed to equip students with the skills and competences they need in the real world. Gernon added: "Transferring to a new style of teaching and learning is never easy, but what has been demonstrated here is that, with the right courses, focused students and high-quality teaching, we have been able to extend the potential of many
of our students."

Sporting success

Academy student Scott Hadley has been named disabled swimmer of the year in a national competition. Despite undergoing a series of difficult operations for his multiple disabilities, Hadley has been training with able-bodied swimmers for the past two years and is now a serious contender for the 2012 Paralympics in London.

Pictured, Elle Stokes receives her tennis award from Tim Henman and a £250 coaching award. She reached the finals in the singles and doubles of the Wimbledon National 14-and-Under Challenge. The finals gave her the experience of playing on Wimbledon’s famous grass courts, ‘the atmosphere was amazing and I really enjoyed playing on the grass!’.

Visit the RSA Academy website for more information.