Years 7 – 11
On entry into the school, pupils become members of an all-ability tutor group. In order to uphold our strong primary school links, we have a fixed Year Team Leader for Year 7. Thereafter, pupils normally remain with their tutor group as they move through the key stage, though tutors have annual discussions with senior colleagues, at which they can express preferences about this role. The Form Tutor is central to the pastoral care and academic progress of the pupils. A ‘Head of Year’ is responsible for the overall welfare, progress and development of each year group. Tutors meet forms each morning, and afternoon, for registration. Personal, Social and Health Education is delivered by tutors and features in the 50 period, 10 day timetable for students of all ages. There are target groups, for under-achieving students, in all year groups. Year-based assemblies are held daily and are supplemented by ‘Thought for the Day’ in tutorial groups. There are numerous fund-raising and other special events throughout the School Year. Each year group has a Year Council, where representative students and teachers discuss a wide range of school matters. We have an active School Council. Parent consultation evenings average 75% – 85% attendance. Each member of the Governing Body is attached to a year group, as well as to a subject area.

In Years 7, 8 and 9 all students follow the same basic curriculum. Year 7 are taught in tutor groups to start with. Setting is introduced in a number of subjects at appropriate points in the first three years. Extra support is available for those with special educational needs. Our Learning Support Co-ordinator heads a growing team of teaching and support staff.

In Years 10 and 11 all students follow courses in core subjects. R.E. and P.S.H.E. are taught separately. An information booklet is issued to each student and their choice is further guided in discussion with teachers and parents during Year 9. A ‘Youth Award’ Scheme has been offered in place of one of the GCSE options in recent years. We have good experience of working with local colleges and employers on ‘alternative pathways’ for some of our students, and have been working towards greater flexibility for a number of years.

Sixth Form
Students in the Sixth Form are placed in separate Year 12/13 tutor groups. There are eight Sixth Form tutors and a Head of Sixth Form. Sixth Formers whose service and commitment to the school warrant it are made Senior Prefects. A Head Boy, Head Girl, and their Deputies are elected from this group, annually. A Sixth Form Council meets half-termly to discuss matters of interest. There is a lively social and extra-curricular programme for Sixth Formers. The annual ‘Charity Week’ is a particular highlight of the Autumn Term. Sixth Formers have their own Common Room and workrooms, and priority use of the School Library.

In the Sixth Form all students have an enhanced tutorial programme, including Key Skills. A Sixth Form brochure is available containing full details.

The curriculum offer includes AS/A levels, VCEs, BTEC Level 2 qualifications and vocational courses in conjunction with the local FE college as part of the STAR 16 programme. Five option blocks are created as a best fit based on students’ preferences. Those students who wish to take an AS/A level subject that is not covered at Kineton may choose to access the joint provision of the Stratford Schools partnership.

All students take part in PSHE, RE and Physical Education. Enrichment courses such as ‘Community Sports Leaders Award’ are also available. GCSE English and Maths is offered as a retake subject.

Grouping within the sixth form is determined by those taking the course.