However, there are certain disadvantages to this school. The school’s social activities are feeble and subjects such as music and drama are only applicable to students in the first year. The discipline within this school seems quite strong, and as the principal says, “lots of homework...regular reporting to parents…no point in being here if you cannot cope with work and follow rules…” seeing as there are quite a lot of staff members, students may find them unapproachable, and although the children grow to be independent spirits, this only applies if they are on their best behaviour all the time and are willing to work hard for most of their teenage years.
Wellbourne Grange, the school that I would prefer to go to is pretty much the exact opposite of Allways Academy. It offers most major subjects and performing arts are particularly strong at all levels, one of the more emphasized subjects is music. The examination results are good and the principal seems open to suggestions and believes in cultivating the soul rather than the mind. As he says “the individual comes first”. Self discipline is observed, and through that success is obtained. Time is an important aspect of teaching and students are constantly reminded how valuable time is and to learn how to live the right way. Students have access to teachers who are open and honest. Although this school is rather modern, being opened in 1994, and only containing 345 students and 15 staff, staff are approachable, and the whole school seems like a small closely knit community. The children are taught to enjoy learning. Finally, the students comments are “the music is good, I’ve developed skills that will last me all my life” and “you have a good social life here and it helps you grow to be mature.” This school is more modern and most parent’s accept the fact that children don’t need to concentrate on studying too much, but a varied and rich environment is necessary.
Uniform is not a necessity and students are expected to look neat and tidy. Overall, the main focus in on the individual.
Certain disadvantages are at hand, such as the fact that many children will not make it into the music or sports business and may regret it after their schooling is complete. The principal finds team games too competitive. This will not help the child in the future as most jobs require interaction and teamwork.
The teachers are more like friends, though they may be a bit too lenient and not act like teachers at all, with poor qualifications. In addition, since uniform is not worn, this may result in clichés and some children may be considered more or less popular, that may result in heated debate. Overall, this school is lenient, modern with slight flaws in it’s curriculum.
In conclusion, I would prefer to go to Wellbourne Grange as it is not as strict as Allways Academy and it focuses on the subjects I am profoundly interested in.
Both schools have excellent qualifications and it mainly depends on the parents’ view of how they wish their child to grow up, behind a desk, or on television.
By
Pooja Ramchandani 10M
Ms Gower
English
