Learning Support Assistant

Headteacher's Welcome

Highdown is a place where tradition meets innovation, from the 16th century tythe barn to the state of the art computing facilities, and this rich heritage coupled with our dynamic teachers means that Highdown is a place where students achieve more than they thought possible.

It goes without saying that we enjoy the very best in academic standards, with passionate specialist teachers in every department from Mandarin to Further Maths to Textiles. This summer 80% of our students passed English and Maths at GCSE and over 20% of A-Levels were graded at A or A*. But our co-curricular offer is where the school comes alive, from our leadership pathways to our international trips, there is something for every young person to excel in and to develop their resources, skills and resilience so they can feel confident in embracing their future.

Whilst they are with us we take great care to make sure students feel they belong. Our mentor groups and thriving house system ensure they build relationships with staff and peers that are healthy and happy. School life is permeated by our core values of aspiration, respect and excellence. We ARE Highdown!

Highdown’s success is rooted in the enthusiasm and pride of our staff. We never take for granted the transformative power of education and this is reflected in our commitment to routine, high quality professional development that is rooted in the most recent academic research.

I hope you enjoy learning more about the school from the website and look forward to welcoming you here in person so you can experience first-hand what a special place Highdown is.

Ms. L Mathews

Headteacher

Reasons to join our team at Highdown

Our most important resource is our staff. Therefore, we aim to create the conditions and culture within the academy that make Highdown School and Sixth Form Centre a rewarding place to work. We are committed to investing in staff professional learning and leadership development, taking action to rationalise workload, promote mental and physical health and wellbeing, and encourage collaboration and peer support.

For a teacher, Highdown School is an exciting environment in which to work. The total commitment to continuing improvement and the vision for Highdown School to be the best it possibly can be is underpinned by a dynamic programme of Joint Professional Learning (JPL). Colleagues can select from a wide range of sessions and tailor their training to their personal development goals. Professional development of colleagues is second only to the achievements of our students.

For support staff, there is also a commitment to development and an expectation that all are working to the same goals as the school.

What our staff say about us:

"I have learnt and developed hugely in my time at Highdown and have been fortunate to work with many of the leadership team which has helped shape and prepare me for a leadership role I will now take on."