Academic extension opportunities (including Maths, English and Science Master Classes)
At RGS, we offer academic extension and master classes to local state schools, providing advanced learning opportunities in subjects like mathematics, science, and English. These initiatives aim to inspire and challenge students, fostering a passion for learning and academic excellence beyond the standard curriculum. An outline of these initiatives is listed below.
RGS has been working with the Royal Institute to deliver Maths, English and Science Master classes to some of our local state primary schools. This included the provision of four weekly science classes for children from local state schools to inspire and enrich them in the subject.
Pupils from five local state primaries have also been invited in to take part in four weekly sessions on Creative Coding, run by RGS's head of ICT and a number of sixth form pupils studying Computing for A level.
RGS facilitated two lectures on philosophy and theology that were hosted by speaker Stephen Law and pupils from Ashcombe School were invited to attend.
As part of a science week initiative, a group of local primary schools were invited to attend some fun and lively science demonstrations in conjunction with the Royal Institution.
The headmaster from Walton on the Hill and one of the assistant heads at RGS have also been working together to develop a programme of curriculum enrichment for the state primary schools in RH1 and RH2.
A group of RGS sixth formers, competing in the European Space Agency CANSAT challenge, gave a presentation to pupils at St John's Primary School on the science and engineering behind the project.
A further English and academic enrichment event featured English expert and Author, Joe Nutt giving a lecture and seminar about poetry. He covered Donne, Wordsworth, Browning and more and was an inspiring speaker with a wealth of knowledge and understanding to share.
Aims
To help children with their learning.
The aim of the CANSAT project was to broaden awareness of engineering and science amongst primary school pupils in a fun and interactive way.
The aim of the lecture and seminar with poet Joe Nutt was to extend and enrich a love of and understanding of poetry. This was aimed at literature students but also parents and other members of the community.
Resources
RGS has provided resources that include facilities, communications, teaching, funding and refreshments. Some of our science teachers were involved in the science master classes, as well as the use of our science labs.
In addition, the academic partnerships use the lecture space of the Reigate Grammar School old Library facility.
Impact
Pupils have said they thoroughly enjoyed the science master classes and learned a lot from taking part.
Pupil Involvement
Pupils from years 5 to 13 took part in the science master classes.
Frequency
The master classes range in frequency, with some taking place termly. The CANSAT presentation was a one-off event specific to the CANSAT challenge but it is hoped will be the start of an ongoing relationship with the aim of continuing to support the growth of science and technology in primary schools.