Maida Vale School takes a modern approach to every aspect of School life. These are the key characteristics upon which the School is founded:
Individualised Attention
With a broad curriculum, a vast enrichment programme and an extended School day, Maida Vale has the variety and flexibility to enable Pupils to develop their individual talents and fulfil their potential. Our small teaching and tutor groups, combined with the importance we place on communication between home and School, allow us to provide the highest level of pastoral care.
Selection Criteria
Maida Vale School seeks to recruit intelligent Pupils with a confident sense of identity and an original approach to learning, problem solving and creativity. Although we do use entrance testing, greater emphasis is placed on interviews, work portfolios and feeder school reports. Each year group is selected as a cohort in which children with different aptitudes and personalities inspire and support each other.
Ethos & Achievement
We welcome Pupils with varying academic profiles, searching out and encouraging the individual abilities of each child, placing emphasis on confidence, self-esteem and creativity. We believe that values form the pursuit of excellence and leads to achievement in all areas.
We will operate a true “open door” policy, welcoming Parents and members of the wider community to become a part of School life. Maida Vale School seeks to cultivate the feeling of a family and social hub that offers emotional support and security for all Pupils and employees.
The Curriculum
We provide a rich and broad education for all Pupils from age 11 to 18 whatever their specialism. The Gardener Schools Group's track record shows that we can achieve the highest academic results for each Pupil, but without creating 'examination factories'.
Community Involvement
The School must be outward-looking, taking full advantage of the wide variety of cultural, scientific and business organisations in London as a resource for academic and non-academic learning. Our locality also provides opportunities for service to the local community. We continue our practice of welcoming prominent visitors to hold seminars, lectures and workshops at the School.
Modern and Innovative Approach
Maida Vale School takes a fresh approach to all areas of School life and is not bound by current conventions and practices which no longer seem useful. Whilst retaining the core traditional values established in our Schools, we will continue to make decisions about the curriculum, timetabling and the length and shape of the School day and term which reflect this. Lessons extend to six hours per day and Key Stage 3 ends after Year 8, providing Pupils with an extra year to study at GCSE level.
Creativity and Excellence
The School promotes individual and group creativity both academically and in extracurricular activities, allowing talent to bloom. We encourage individuality of thought and self-motivation in all areas of study and exploration. The ability to problem-solve and to be creative will become increasingly important for young people entering employment in the 21st century.