As an academy we are committed to the principles of Growth Mindset. We actively encourage challenge, resilience and effort in all of our students. We believe that brains and talent are just the starting point and that everyone’s abilities and talents can be further developed through dedication and hard work. Students are encouraged to explore and understand the principles of Growth Mindset through our coaching programme. In practice this means that our students are urged to see mistakes as an important part of the learning journey, not as failure. Students are praised for consistent effort, resilience and determination rather than quick success. They are encouraged to challenge themselves in every aspect of learning – planning, researching, producing and reworking. We encourage a ‘critical eye’ at all stages of the learning process, developing the skills of perception, evaluation and emotional intelligence so that students develop an appreciation of their capacity to learn and continually improve. 

A successful House System operates at Priesthorpe; Houses Jones-Buchanan, Tomlinson, Hockney and Ennis-Hill participate in House competitions throughout the academic year. Students compete in activities such as creative arts, computer programming, rap battle, to name but a few, as well as many sporting activities, to gain points for their house!

At Co-op Academy Priesthorpe, the development of skills such as social, communication, problem-solving and teamwork is enhanced by the opportunities and experiences students have outside the classroom. There are a diverse range of activities that are part of a weekly timetable for students to choose from. These activities run before or after school and are delivered by staff who are enthusiastic to share their knowledge and passion.

Extracurricular activities in subjects, such as Music, Art and Sport, help extend student’s confidence, perseverance, motivation and resilience beyond the classroom. Each student has the opportunity to develop their strengths and to discover new talents and interests. Activities vary each term but during the year may include; football, badminton, boxing, rock band, art, photography, cookery and many more.

Opportunities to take part in trips and visits have been a strength of Co-op Academy Priesthorpe for many years. We run a range of experiences abroad during students’ time at Priesthorpe. Recent trips have included trips to the  Trenches, ski trips to Europe as well as very successful Year 7 & 8 French trips. All these experiences are designed to further enrich the out of lesson learning opportunities for our students.

The vision to inspire all students to leave Co-op Academy Priesthorpe equipped and motivated to contribute fully to life within their own communities and beyond is facilitated by the coaching programme.  The programme incorporates coaching sessions, calendared events such as Black History Month, Assemblies and Learning for Life days. A combination of activities and workshops ensure that, over time, students are able to build confidence and better understand their thoughts, emotions and behaviours. 

Students are placed in groups of approximately 13 students and a member of the teaching or associate staff as a coach. As the groups are small, strong relationships can be built over time as coaches remain with the groups from Year 7 through to Year 11.

MYCD takes place in September. MYCD provides the opportunity to build a relationship between staff, students and parents/carers. Its purpose is to meet together to discuss the overall progress that students are making in school and to deliver vital information.

We believe that this relationship is key in ensuring that communication between home and school is effective. A student’s coach is an additional point of contact for parents beyond the student’s Year Manager, Key Stage Leader and Assistant Key Stage Leader. On MYCD you will be asked to read and sign the home school agreement. This is an important document that outlines how we can work together to support your child’s learning.

The reward system at Co-op Academy Priesthorpe has been designed to create a positive climate for learning, promote strong relationships between staff and students and create a strong culture of respect. Maintaining an effective climate for learning is a prerequisite for learning and student progress.

Priesthorpe delivers an exciting sport curriculum as well as a range of activities such as football (boys and girls), rugby, netball, cross-country, rounders and athletics teams. Clubs including; dance, badminton, fitness, cricket, table tennis and basketball are also popular. This enables students to engage in leadership opportunities, through our links with local sports clubs and primary schools across the city. We regularly signpost interested pupils into clubs, allowing our students to go on to represent the city, county or even country.

The school has a strong tradition of Performing Arts. Drama is extended beyond lessons, through visiting theatre groups, theatre trips and clubs. Music is also a very popular subject with lessons inside and outside of the curriculum, opportunities to join bands, explore music technology, learn an instrument and join clubs or enter competitions. There  are also regular school productions which are open to everyone, combining music, acting, singing and dance.