Gordonstoun School
Gordonstoun School
In Moray, Scotland, there is a co-ed private school called Gordonstoun School that accepts both boarding and day students. The 150-acre (61 ha) estate, which Sir Robert Gordon owned in the 17th century and which the school today utilizes as its campus, inspired the name. It's in Duffus, which is northwest of Elgin. The acceptance of students is contingent upon an interview, references, and exam results. One of the final complete boarding schools in the UK is this one.
Two more schools are a part of the larger Gordonstoun community in addition to the main school. These include Aberlour House, Gordonstoun's preparatory school, and a summer program that advertises the institution outside of the regular school year.
Programs in Gordonstoun School
The Junior School students follow the English National Curriculum, and Gordonstoun School offers instruction in everything from Latin, Art, and Music to English, Mathematics, and Science, in addition to the A Levels and GCSEs offered in the Senior School. Gordonstoun School aspires to give students a solid grounding in a wide range of courses, a passion for learning, and an eagerness to try new things. Children enroll in the school from all over the world as well as from nearby schools, and the changeover to the child-centered curriculum is simple.
The academic program is created to challenge every student, enabling them to realize their full potential and establishing the groundwork for their future studies, whether they want to continue at Gordonstoun or at another institution.
Small class sizes allow Gordonstoun School to strike a balance between encouraging a lively interchange of ideas and providing each student with the individualized attention they need while teaching composition. Both a class teacher and a classroom aide are present in younger classrooms. Additionally, Gordonstoun School has a specialized Learning and Support Department that can provide 1:1 support as needed. Gordonstoun School invites students from all over the world because it takes pleasure in offering a richly varied atmosphere. English as an Additional Language is taught at Gordonstoun School because many students do not speak English as their first language. Even for native English speakers, this is a bit of a mouthful, therefore Gordonstoun School just refers to it as the EAL department.
The more diverse the learning experiences offered in a classroom, according to Gordonstoun School, the better. This aids students in learning more about themselves as they advance and change as a result of each novel experience. It develops their character, fosters relationships, and gives them a positive outlook on life no matter where they wind up in the future.
Gordonstoun School holds that students who think internationally are better able to understand the big picture and become positive, empathetic, and global citizens in a world that is always changing. Because the Junior School is fortunate to have students from all over the world as residents, all kids are exposed to a diverse range of various worlds, people, and cultures. Here in the stunning Moray countryside, they are a part of a global community where they live and learn.
The ISC (International and Spiritual Citizenship) curriculum at Gordonstoun School includes a special sequence of lessons that emphasize internationalism as a key element of the school's classroom-based activities.
The Junior and Senior Schools both use this curriculum, which incorporates spiritual growth, health education, environmental challenges, and life skills in a global framework. Every boy and girl at Gordonstoun School has a world of opportunities because of the school's internationalism.
The goal of Year 9, the first year of senior school at Gordonstoun, is to provide students with a solid foundation and the chance to explore a variety of courses. Making new acquaintances and adjusting to school life are ideal during this time for students. It is also a good time to establish good study and learning habits. Each student is evaluated shortly after Gordonstoun School accepts them to ensure that the academic program is tailored to challenge, develop, and nurture each student's specific needs. At the GCSE level, students in Years 10 and 11 typically study nine topics, both required and elective. Math, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, English Language, English Literature, French, Spanish, German, Latin, Greek, Design, Drama, Dance, Geography, History, Music, Physical Education, and Business Studies are among the GCSEs that are available.The Sixth Form at Gordonstoun, which is devoted to the study of A levels, is made up of Years 12 and 13. The majority of students select three subjects, but those seeking a challenge—and Gordonstoun School loves a challenge—might also enroll in an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) or an additional A Level, for instance in Further Math. Art, biology, business studies, chemistry, computer science, design, english literature, geography, history, math, media studies, german, french, spanish, latvian, photography, theater studies, economics, english language, greek, music, physics, and sociology are among the subjects with A Level options. Additionally, Gordonstoun School provides a BTEC in Sport, Psychology, Business & Entrepreneurship, and Uniformed Protective Services.
Parents are asked to a consultation once a term and academic progress is discussed with them twice a term. To talk about a student's progress, however, extra appointments can be set whenever you like. To ensure they receive the best direction and encouragement possible, teachers and tutors regularly watch and monitor their students.
Every student at Gordonstoun School will be stretched, challenged, and nurtured by the curriculum, which is exceptional and unparalleled in scope. Each student's academic requirements are continuously monitored by the pastoral and curriculum teams, and work is designed to take use of each child's potential.
Students in the Senior School meet with their tutor once a week to ensure they are challenging themselves to the fullest. Gordonstoun School holds each student to high standards and lives according to its slogan, "Plus est en vous," which translates as "There is more in you." Weekly "clinics" focused on particular subjects give students the chance to improve in their chosen fields. The Scholarship and Enrichment coordinator plans a wide range of activities, such as vacations and national academic competitions, to help each student improve their skills, boost their self-confidence, and pique their curiosity. Additionally, the debating, discussion, and current affairs organizations are experts in expanding students' horizons in terms of the academic world outside of their classrooms and extending their study beyond the curriculum.
School Life in Gordonstoun School
Each student will develop their skills and confidence in a variety of competitive and team sports and activities. Every student, from eager novices to those who are representing their countries or regions, is encouraged to succeed.
Additionally, students can participate in badminton, table tennis, basketball, rounders, and volleyball. They can practice karate and aerobics, go horseback riding, ski, mountain bike, or snowboard. Eight golf courses, including two championship links courses, are within a half-hour drive of Gordonstoun School in addition to its own course, Scotland's only five-hole golf course, according to the school.
Expeditions, sail training, and adventure activities are the three primary components of Gordonstoun School's outdoor program. These activities are all intended to assist the students gain new knowledge and abilities, respond to challenges, and get to know one another and their peers. Students at Gordonstoun School can take advantage of the breathtaking Scottish landscape right outside their door by participating in activities like kayaking, mountain biking, orienteering, skiing, or even learning bushcraft, wilderness survival techniques, or surfing off the magnificent beaches of the Moray coast.
All of these experiences are intended to aid the children in growing their sense of self-awareness, resilience, good judgment, and accountability for their actions. They learn how to operate in a team and, most importantly, how to be aware of and thoughtful of their surroundings. Students may pursue the Duke of Edinburgh Silver and Gold Awards while they are here, if they so want.
Students in senior school have the choice of devoting more time to studying for exams or to their own happiness and growth. At Gordonstoun School, students can learn a variety of instruments, and they can participate in concerts twice a week. The music department also organizes larger events all through the year, and the ability to perform fosters creativity and self-assurance.
Dance is a popular GCSE option, and Gordonstoun is the only school in Scotland that offers dance instruction as part of the academic curriculum. The kids can also showcase their abilities in front of a supportive audience at the yearly dance performance.
Students have the opportunity to perform on stage or assist with shows that the Drama Department presents throughout the year.
Future Prospects
Students at Gordonstoun School take GCSEs and A levels, which prepare them for admission to Oxford and Cambridge, among other prestigious universities.Any kid who requires additional assistance can always get it anytime they want it. Parents and kids can both turn to the dedicated Learning Support Department for assistance. During the admissions process, parents and guardians are asked if a student would benefit from additional support.
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