Newsletter - 2011 issue 1 - Strode College

Make the right choice with Strode College
Pathways to success
“As a tertiary college Strode aims to offer a course for almost everyone,
and whether you are interested in A Levels or a vocational course we
can offer you these two different pathways to success.
Ofsted has recognised that across all our 42 A Level courses student
success in achieving the highest grades is "outstanding" and on 11 of
our AS and A Level courses students make more progress than at any
other school or college in the country. Equally satisfying, our 2011
vocational results at both Level 2 and Level 3 were the best in our
history.
Strode has a local and national reputation for excellence and was one
of the first colleges to be awarded Beacon status by the government
in recognition of our high quality performance. But we are not resting
on our laurels and we continue to enhance our reputation today.”
James Staniforth
Principal
Best ever results
This summer we celebrated our best ever results with students
excelling in A Levels and vocational courses. Our A Level pass rate was
99.4% with 54% A*- B grades and our National Diploma pass rate was
99% with 75% high grades.
These results are significantly above national benchmarks and
most impressively, 54% of our student grades were either A*, A or a
Distinction (grade A equivalent).
Best at maximising potential
Strode is one of the top institutions in the country for improving
students’ performance after their GCSEs, being placed in the top 7%
of 1200 schools and colleges nationally (ALPS data).
Eleven of our AS and A Levels are the best courses in the country
for improving students’ performance (ALPS data).
• Archaeology
• Biology AS and A2
• Communications and Culture AS and A2
• Geology AS
• History of Art AS and A2
• Human Biology AS and A2
• Textiles
Advanced Level Performance Systems (ALPS) measure student
progress from GCSE to A Level or BTEC National Diploma and
benchmark performance using the data for all schools and
colleges provided by the Department for Education.
Wide choice of courses
We offer 42 A Level subjects, 30 vocational courses and 18 Apprenticeships.
See our website for more information: www.strode-college.ac.uk.

Valuing individuals and maximising potential
Valuing individuals
We ensure that all students maximise their potential by valuing them
as individuals and supporting them through our pastoral system which
provides one-to-one support for all students. Studying post-16 requires
individual support for every student taking into consideration their individual
circumstances. Our personal tutors work one-to-one to provide advice and
guidance on progression after college, as well as academic mentoring and
monitoring. They also work closely with students and parents and can draw on
a range of specialist support from our Student Services team.
This approach has proved successful for students who come to us with
exceptional GSCE results or minimum entry requirements.
Outstanding students
Our top 50 A Level students in 2011 came to Strode with, on average, better
than 10 GCSEs at grade A. Collectively they achieved 91% A*-B grades, with 18%
A* and 69% A* and A, which compares very favourably with A Level students at
independent schools across the region.
These students are now studying at their chosen universities including Russell
Group universities such as Oxford, Birmingham, Cardiff, King’s College London,
Nottingham, Queen’s College Belfast, Sheffield, Southampton, University College
London and Warwick; medical schools; other high performing universities like
Durham, Exeter, Queen Mary’s London, Sussex and York, as well as taking gap
years or progressing to the Art Foundation course at Strode.
Creating opportunities not barriers
We know that true potential does not always reveal itself early in the education
system. Some people respond more positively to learning as they get older or if
they change where and how they study.
We accept students onto A Levels with a minimum of five grade C GCSEs and
we do not insist on English and Maths or grade B in all subjects to be studied.
Neither do our students have to gain a minimum grade for AS subjects before
continuing the second year of A Levels.
If we set the same entry requirements as other schools and colleges, 109
of our 2011 A Level students would have been excluded from study.
At Strode they achieved 10 A*, 32 As, 72 Bs, 122 Cs, 84 Ds and 33 Es across
34 subjects.
Getting the most
out of life
We recognise the value of social and
personal development alongside hard
work and learning, so we encourage
our students to take part in other
activities.
They can choose from over 20 different
sports activities, choir and music
groups, cooking, creative writing,
theatre groups, languages, debating,
photography, film club, Bridge club
and charity fundraising.

Student profiles
Rebecca House
Studied: A Level Geology A*, Geography A* and Maths A*, 2010
Previous School: Crispin School
Where now? University of Cambridge studying Geography BA (Hons)
“I chose to study at Strode because I was attracted to the modern facilities and
welcoming atmosphere. The Geography course incorporates a wide range of
human and physical topics, allowing me to develop my interest in the subject. The
teaching is thorough and independent learning is encouraged which really suits me.
There were several opportunities for field trips – I visited Iceland which was beneficial
for both my Geography and Geology courses. Strode supported me throughout the
university application process including helping me to prepare for interviews.”
Nicholas Hill
Studied: A Level Geology A*, Maths (Mechanics) A* and Physics A, 2011
Previous school: King Arthur’s Community School
Where now? University of the West of England, Bristol, studying BSc Quantity
Surveying and Commercial Management (part-time) whilst working as a Trainee
Quantity Surveyor for Rhead Group
“I’m ecstatic with my A Level results - this is more than I ever expected. I’ve already
started a quantity surveyor job and my employer is supporting me through a five
year part-time degree. I’ve got a salary, a car, and I’m going to be getting a degree –
I’m sorted! Strode has been brilliant; the atmosphere, the teachers and the friends. I
couldn’t have wished for a better college to spend two years at.”
Helen Gosling
Studied: A Level Maths (Statistics) A*, Biology A, Geography A, 2011
Previous school: St Dunstan’s Community School
Where now? University of Nottingham studying Agriculture (Biosciences) BSc (Hons)
“I chose to study at Strode because it has a good reputation, it was my local college
and lots of my friends were going there too. The atmosphere was great and the
teachers were really helpful. They understood how to help you and I found the extra
teaching workshops really useful. My Biology teacher was excellent, she pushed me
and gave me confidence about what I could do. I was really pleased with my A Level
results and I’m having a great time at university. I’m getting involved in everything –
I’ve got an allotment, I’m doing hockey and riding and I’m enjoying the lectures and
the social life.”
Jack Warman
Studied: National Diploma in Media Production, Triple Distinction, 2011
Previous school: Ansford Academy
Where now? University of Wales studying Advertising Design BA (Hons)
“I chose Media Production because I wanted to study a subject that allowed me to
work in a team and be creative. During my time at Strode I’ve been given a lot of
useful experiences and with the help of the tutors I left college with a lot of happy
memories and good quality work.”
Hollie Roper
Studied: A Level French A, German A and English Language A, 2010
Previous school: Whitstone School
Where now? Oxford University studying German (BA (Hons)
“Strode College has excellent facilities for learning languages, particularly the
language lab, the computers and the opportunities to work with native speaking
language assistants. The language teaching at Strode is fantastic. I’ve never been
taught by staff of such a high standard and the teaching methods were great.
One of my language teachers was also a careers advisor at Strode and, like me, he
studied languages at Oxford. He was especially helpful and made sure my Oxford
application included the right type of work to show off my strengths.“

Student profiles
Leah Sheard
Studying: AS Level Psychology, Sociology, Business Studies and Drama &
Theatre Studies
Previous school: Bucklers Mead
What next? Plans to study Business and Psychology at university
“When I first visited Strode I got the feeling that every student mattered because we
got personal attention and advice and the teachers were really friendly and helpful.
I’m enjoying my AS subjects and I’m on the way to getting good grades. My teachers
are enthusiastic and the weekly quizzes and revision sessions help you keep on
top of your work. The individual support helps you focus on areas where you need
extra help. I love Strode. College life is fun, there’s lots to do and everyone is really
friendly.”
Sian Cronin
Studied: Level 2 Diploma in Beauty Therapy in 2010, then progressed to Level 3
Advanced Diploma in Beauty Therapy, 2011
Previous school: Westfield Community School
Where now? Employed as a Beauty Therapist at a Salon in Yeovil
“Everyone at Strode was really friendly, the tutors were really supportive and we had
regular one-to-one meetings. The atmosphere was great and it was really nice to be
able to get on with everyone including the tutors. I’m glad I had the opportunity to
go on the Paris trip, it was fantastic.”
James Brooks
Studied: A Level Geology A, Physics C and Environmental Science C, 2007
Previous school: Stanchester Academy
Where now? Studied Geology and Geotechnics at Exeter University. Now
employed as a Geotechnical Tunnel Engineer in Hong Kong
“I’ve been assigned to the team of a new tunnel that’s being constructed - it’s
8.5km long and will form the second stage of the harbour treatment. I have lots of
responsibility as it’s our job to suggest and guide the support for the tunnels. The
company is paying me a good wage and they pay for an apartment as well.”
Chloe Murray
Studied: National Diploma Performing Arts, Triple Distinction, 2010
Previous school: Sexeys School
Where now? Bath Spa University (Weston College) studying Performing Arts
Foundation Degree
“Strode is such a friendly and welcoming college and I knew I’d get a lot from the
course because friends had done well there. The teachers were really encouraging
and friendly and their door was always open to us. The facilities, particularly Strode
Theatre with its large audience, its technical staff and box office, added a real
professional feel to the course and gave us an insight into what it would be like to
work in the theatre.”
Carla Tate
Studied: A Level Geography A, Environmental Studies A, Maths A and French B, 2011
Previous school: Huish Academy
Where now? University of Southampton studying Geography
“I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Strode with its friendly and supportive atmosphere.
The teaching has been informative, passionate and interesting. The Geography
course gave me a good balance of human and physical geography, which has given
me a good base for extending my knowledge at university. We also got a lot of help
with the university application process. “

Student profiles
Helen Callaby
Studied: A Level Maths (Statistics) A*, Biology A, Chemistry A and Psychology A, 2011
Previous school: Ansford Academy
Where now? Brighton & Sussex Medical School studying Medicine BMBS (Hons)
“I was so relieved when I got my results and I’m really looking forward to studying
medicine. There’s more freedom at Strode than at school which, along with
the mutual respect between teachers and students, helps you become more
independent and confident and encourages you to work hard for yourself. I went
on the Biology field trip to Belize which was a valuable experience. It taught us to
explore biology outside the classroom and relate A Level work to a real life setting. I
found it really easy to meet people at Strode.”
Bryn Dickinson
Studied: A Level Physics A*, Chemistry A*, Maths A* and Further Maths A*, 2010
Previous school: St Dunstan’s Community School
Where now? University of Cambridge studying Natural Sciences BA (Hons)
“The physics teaching and facilities at Strode are excellent and the course covers
a wide variety of interesting subjects. Whenever possible we verified what we
learnt experimentally and I had plenty of opportunities to study subjects outside
the syllabus. The College was extremely helpful preparing me for university and
applying to Cambridge. I also had the chance to try climbing and to compete in the
UKMT Team Maths Challenge and we reached the final in London. I felt amazing
when I got my A Level results; I thought I’d done OK but wasn’t sure. My teachers
were wonderful.”
Megan Vaux
Studied: A Level Law A, Sociology A, Psychology A, 2011
Previous school: The Blue School
Where now? Exeter University studying Law
“Law is an interesting subject which was well supported by my other subjects. It
taught me to argue, analyse and evaluate, which has prepared me for developing
my skills at university. Our lecturers were very passionate and facilities, such as
the Learning Centre, were very helpful. I met several new people at Strode and the
atmosphere was a good step to university.”
Eddie Wilson-Chalon
Studying: A Level Physics, Maths and Further Maths
Previous school: Preston School
Where next? Plans to study Aerospace Engineering at university
“Strode is the right place for me because it has the best standards, great facilities and
I can do the courses I want. I was happy with my AS grades and I’m doing really well
in my second year. My teachers are really informative. The extra study workshops
and one-to-one support is helping me organise my time and focus on what I have
to do to get the grades I need for university. I like the relaxed atmosphere at college
and particularly enjoy the teaching.”
Verity Stone
Studied: A Level Maths A*, Spanish A and Physics A, 2011
Previous school: Millfield
Where now? Oxford University studying Spanish and Linguistics
“I really enjoyed my time at Strode. The relaxed, yet busy, atmosphere has been key
to my success. I found the Spanish course really interesting; it covered a broad range
of topics and focused on issues that are unique to Spain and the other Hispanic
countries. The language lab was really useful allowing me to improve my listening
skills immensely. The extra support I received whilst applying for university was
indispensable. Last year we visited Madrid and I found the museums and galleries
interesting and enlightening. Strode has given me a good foundation on which I
can build at Oxford.”

Student profiles
Mel Dowden
Studied: Beauty Therapy Level 1, National Diploma Levels 2 and 3
Previous school: Crispin School
Where now? Strode College studying Level 3 Diploma in Complimentary
Therapies whilst working (part-time) as a Beauty Therapist
“When I was at school I got a place on the Increased Flexibility Programme and
went to Strode one day a week to study Level 1 Beauty Therapy. I stayed at Strode
to do Beauty Therapy Levels 2 and 3 and I’m currently studying for a Diploma in
Complimentary Therapies. I’ve always been interested in learning and I want to
make the most of my education. Increasing my skills and knowledge will give me
more choice in my career and allow me to add variety to the work I do. I’ve worked
part-time throughout my studies and I’m currently working as a beauty therapist
at a salon in Glastonbury. In the future I want to work as a therapist in a hospital. I
really enjoy being at Strode. The teachers are lovely, they make you feel comfortable,
they give lots of support and advice and they’ve really encouraged me to progress.”
Sam Hadfield
Studied: National Diploma in Music Technology, Double Distinction and Merit, 2010
Previous school: Stanchester Academy
Where now? Buckinghamshire New University studying Audio and Music
Production BA
“My two years at Strode were very enjoyable. There is a friendly atmosphere and
the staff are very helpful. The course has a good mix of practical skills and theory
related to the music industry, including live sound, video for music, digital graphics
and sequencing. Alongside the course you have the opportunity to be creative and
use the college’s advanced recording studios for your own projects.”
Sophie Charnley
Studying: Level 3 Extended Diploma in Art and Design
Previous school: Preston School
What next? Plans to study Graphics at university or do a graphics
Apprenticeship
“When I first visited Strode I knew immediately I wanted to study here. The art and
design facilities are far better than other schools and colleges I’d visited. I did really
well in my first year progressing more and more in all subjects, even those I wasn’t
sure about, so now I’m really confident. The teachers are very helpful. They’re
passionate about their subjects and they’ve challenged me to learn new skills and
broaden my knowledge. I’m really enjoying my second year, particularly as I now
have my own work space which makes me feel like the teachers believe in me and
my work. I’ve applied to university to do graphics. The teachers have advised me on
the best universities for graphics and how to build up a good portfolio of my work.
I’m also finding out about apprenticeships.”
Laura Parry
Studied: A Level English Literature A*, History A* and Maths (Statistics) A*, 2011
Previous school: King Arthur’s Community School
Where now? University of Warwick studying English Literature BA (Hons)
“I’ve enjoyed learning at Strode - the staff have been so supportive and they
encouraged me to be a confident and independent learner which has really helped
me. The English course is very interesting and we studied a good range of texts. The
atmosphere at Strode is really welcoming and supportive.“

Student profiles
Chelsey Seymour
Studied: National Diploma in Business, Triple Distinction, 2011
Previous school: Whitstone School
Where now? Employed as a Trainee Accountant at Old Mill Accountants
“Strode College is very supportive and offers advice and help when needed. It also
has facilities to cater for all needs. The Business tutors are kind and have good
experience and knowledge of the course subjects. They always make sure they vary
their lessons and try to ensure students have a trip each year of the course.”
James Marshall
Studied: A Level English Literature A, Physics A, Psychology A, 2008
Previous school: The Blue School
Where now? Cambridge University studying BA English
“I chose to study at Strode because the English department had a good reputation
and I wanted a change from school. Strode has a trusting attitude towards the
students with less of a need for the strict discipline that you get in schools where
there are also younger pupils. My English tutor was incredibly good and particularly
helpful preparing me for my Cambridge interviews. I’ve just graduated after three
wonderful years at university. I’m considering a career in journalism and applying for
graduate schemes.”
Erin Bateson
Studied: A Level Film Studies A*, English Language A, History A and Maths B, 2011
Previous school: Stanchester Academy
Where now? University of Southampton studying Film Studies and History BA
“I chose to study Film Studies because I really enjoy watching movies and it allowed
me to explore my understanding of film. The subject is extremely fun and insightful
and you find yourself learning things without even realising it. I was chosen as
Student Ambassador for Film Studies and I loved every minute of it. I loved the
opportunity to talk about my great experiences.”
Felix Chapman
Studied: A Level Computing A*, Maths (Mechanics) A*, Physics A and Music D, 2011
Previous school: St Dunstan’s Community School
Where now? University of Southampton studying Computer Science BSc (Hons)
“I chose to study at Strode because it was close to home and I was impressed with
the computing and music departments. Strode was somewhere between school and
university and I liked the freedom that gave me. I was able to study in my own time
and my own way and this encouraged me to take responsibility for my learning. I’m
at university now and it’s going really well.”
Polly Gamble
Studied: Art and Design National Diploma, Double Distinction and Merit, Strode 2008
Previous school: The Blue School
Where now? University of the Arts, London studying BA Theatre Costume
Interpretation
“Strode has the best arts programme in the area. I felt free to be myself and the style
of teaching encouraged me to become a more independent learner. The tutors were
really supportive.
I didn’t intend to go to university as no one in my family ever had. The tutors at
Strode encouraged me and when I found out about the different courses I decided to
apply. I’ve always loved textiles and drama and my course combines the two. I’m in
my final year and when I finish I plan to set up my own business in London making
couture bridal accessories.”

Megan Hill
Studied: A Level Geology A*, Maths A*, Art A* and Physics B, 2011
Previous school: Millfield
Where now? Cardiff University studying Architectural Studies
“I’m really pleased with my A Level results. The tutors at Strode gave me the freedom
to find my own way of studying and they were there to give that extra bit of support.
Geology was made really interesting by the tutor through a variety of practical and
literal topics; he was extremely enthusiastic which made it more enjoyable to learn.
Strode is really sociable and friendly too, it’s easy to fit in and there are lots of extra
activities to do.“
Anne Dampier
Studied: National Diploma in Care, Triple Distinction, 2007
Previous school: The Blue School
Where now? Studied BSc in Nursing at University of West England, Bristol. Now
employed as a Nurse at West Mendip Hospital
“I always wanted to be a nurse so I moved to Strode to do the National Diploma in
Care. The tutors were really supportive and gave me lots of advice about applying
to university. What I learned at Strode really helped me at university, particularly the
practical work placements and the communications skills. I’ve just graduated and
got my first job. In the future, if I get funding, I plan to train as a midwife. ”
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