Spotlight on... Head of Year 11

As May sees our Year 11 and 13 students begin their Public Examinations, this month's 'Spotlight on...' features our Head of Year 11, Mr Hancock who is a seasoned-professional at guiding students through the exam period.

WHAT DOES YOUR JOB INVOLVE?

The key to my role is spreading my time effectively across the year group, to offer support to every student who needs it. The wide range of issues can span from complex anxiety and mental health concerns, to academic support and careers guidance, through to just being someone to talk to.  I liaise with the most vulnerable students and families, but my door is open to all.

WHAT IS THE MOST REWARDING PART OF YOUR ROLE?

Feeling that you have made a difference to individual students; helping them to overcome challenges to be successful in their own right.  Whether it be academically (Exams) or socially, or even both, when you see an improvement in their attendance, performance or even just in their outlook being more positive, it makes you feel proud to have been part of it.

WHAT DO YOU FIND THE MOST CHALLENGING?

Being a Head of Year ultimately comes down to supporting each and every student.  It can be challenging to find the right solution for a student in need, but part of my role is to deliver the best outcome for each and every scenario.  Managing expectations is a skill I've learnt over the years as a Head of Year.

WHAT IS THE THING YOU ARE MOST PROUD OF ACHIEVING SINCE JOINING CHARTERS?

Developing relationships with the most vulnerable students to improve their outlook and hopefully their belief in what they are capable of, is something I am very proud of.  Knowing that you have had a positive impact on a large group of students as their Head of Year is very rewarding, as is preparing students for their exams and celebrating their achievements.

I am really proud of my year group and wish them all the best in their forthcoming Public Examinations.  I look forward to seeing many of them return to our Sixth Form in September.