Will the name change?

The name of the school will change when it becomes an Academy and during the consultation process the name will be discussed so that the options considered will reflect the thoughts and aspirations of pupils, staff and the local community.

What is in it for Woodard?

Woodard Schools is a charity not a commercial organisation.

It was established more than 150 years ago in response to the need to provide education for the to people, who the founder, Nathaniel Woodard believed were being over looked by the then education system .

Today, Woodard Schools carries on the work of its founder but with very much a 21 ^st century view and vision of education. It believes that everyone has the right to a good education but in addition to that all children should be treated an individuals, given opportunities in which they can flourish and have the confidence and the tools needed to cope with the demands and responsibilities of adult life.

What’s in it for Woodard? – the continuation of the work of its founder, providing a first class education and enabling children in West Sussex to succeed.

What is the make up of the Governing Body and how will it be selected?

The size of the Governing Body of each academy is guided by the Department for Children Schools and Families. Both sponsors – West Sussex County Council and Woodard Schools will appoint Governors from the staff, parents, businesses and local community.

The composition of the Governing body will be influenced by the feedback from the consultation process so that the appointed Governors reflect the needs and aspirations of the staff, parents and the wider community.

Will the uniform change?

Yes, as a new academy there will be a new school crest and a new school uniform illustrating a new start.

As part of the consultation process pupils, parents and staff will be asked for their thoughts and recommendations for a new uniform.

Woodard Schools also places great importance on the uniform while being mindful of the cost for some parents.

Throughout all Woodard Schools the pupils wear their uniform so that they look smart and tidy at all times. Students are proud of their uniform and the school they belong to. As students are prepared for the demands of adult life they are taught the importance of ‘creating a first impression’ and how they will be expected to dress and behave in the working world.

How will the academy keep discipline/how will you improve the behaviour of students?

Respect. It’s a key word but one that Woodard Schools places at the heart of its ethos – respecting people for their differences, respecting each individual , respect for teachers, authority, school buildings, their work and achievements.

Throughout all Woodard Schools – be they independent, state, grammar, prep, boarding or day schools, all pupils are taught the need to have respect and also to have pride in their work.

Throughout the consultation process and working closely with the Academy head, Woodard Schools and West Sussex County Council will be looking at the issues of behaviour and discipline to ensure that all pupils, parents and staff are aware of the needs and regulations from the first day of term.

What plans do you have for the current school day and school year?

The Woodard West Sussex Academy programme is currently in feasibility so that the details of the school day and school year have yet to be agreed.

However, while in the consultation stage feedback regarding this is welcome and can be fed back to Sandie Reed, Academy Project Manager on Sandie.Reed@mouchel.com

Woodard Schools in general place great importance on meeting the needs of the school curriculum as well as providing extra opportunities. This means that at Woodard Schools across the UK there’s a robust programme of sport, music, drama, after school clubs and wrap around child care tailored to working parents.

Will staff’s religious beliefs be a factor in their continuing employment with new employees?

Not at all.

Just as with students, Woodard Schools welcomes teachers from all religious backgrounds or of no religious faith at all. It helps add to the rich culture and diversity of the school community and fosters tolerance and understanding in others. What matters is that staff embrace the culture of the academy and our child centered approach.

Teachers are employed for their abilities and educational expertise.