Meet the heads: Clare Bradford, Henbury School
As the mother herself of four children educated in Bristol schools, she knows just how important it is that every child receives the very best opportunities and support possible if they are going to achieve their potential. She describes her pride at the progress Henbury has made during the last few years, which has been recognised nationally in the number of awards the school has received for continuously raising results.
“Students’ results at GCSE have more than doubled at Henbury over the last four years. That has come about as a result of really raising expectations of what is possible, and of what young people can achieve.
Staff and students have worked incredibly hard, and feel very proud of our school. For me, what makes Henbury special is the fact that we are a really strong community. Students and staff really care about each other.”
This view was endorsed by Ofsted inspectors last year, who found that “Students enjoy school, and this is clearly reflected in their positive attitudes to learning, their good behaviour and excellent relationships with staff.”
Clare agrees. “There is a very strong sense of common purpose at Henbury. We are all on our journey of improvement together and, while we know that we can continue to do better, we all feel very proud of our school.”
Clare feels it is important to listen to what students say and their views have contributed strongly to the school’s improvement.
A strong emphasis on praise and reward encourages all students to do their best. At the same time, the outstanding range of extra curricular trips and activities really help to motivate and engage all students.
Clare finishes “We want parents to see what Henbury has to offer. They can visit us on Open Evening or, even better, come and see the school in action, either on 1st October or by appointment.”
