At The Cornerstone Academy, we believe that all children should have an outstanding education which allows them to make maximum progress and achieve what they truly deserve. We recognise that what children need to make those achievements differs and as such we offer a varied programme of study. One of the programmes we offer is access to a ‘Grammar Stream’ – the opportunity to follow a grammar school-style curriculum within our comprehensive, co-educational setting.
We aim for our Grammar Stream students to achieve the highest GCSE results. Beyond this, we support the choices made for Post-16 study with a view to our students going onto a University education. We offer our Grammar Stream students the same high standards of teaching that all Cornerstone students receive; however, they are stretched to engage with the curriculum in greater depth, as well as to develop their intellectual passions beyond the curriculum.
We are not a selective school. However, students who apply to The Cornerstone Academy are invited to sit an eligibility test to join our Grammar Stream, particularly if they work consistently to a standard above age-related expectations, and enjoy stretching themselves academically. There are currently 30 places available for Grammar Stream admission.
We are passionate in our belief that 11 years old is too young to put a child on a path that will be right for them their entire secondary career. Things may change for children who begin Year 7 in the Grammar Stream, which may mean it is no longer the best option for them. Similarly, children who were not ready for the rigours of the Grammar Stream at age 11, or for reasons beyond their control, were not in a position to perform well in the entrance tests, may, later on, become ready for it. For this reason, students at The Cornerstone Academy sit twice-yearly assessments, which measure academic progress across the board. Accordingly, students have the opportunity at all stages of their school career to move into or out of the Grammar Stream, as would suit them best.
The Grammar Stream brings together high-achieving students as well as motivating those outside of the Stream. As co-ordinator, my role is to ensure all students thrive in the Grammar Stream and work to the best of their ability. I focus on delivering a varied and challenging curriculum, closely monitor achievement in all subjects, and share updates with parents. The result is a supportive and collaborative environment geared towards success.
We want our Grammar Stream students to become academically successful, but just as importantly, to become fully rounded individuals. For this reason, we strongly encourage our students to immerse themselves in everything that The Cornerstone Academy has to offer, including the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme, volunteering opportunities, and a range of extra-curricular clubs and opportunities.