What does it mean?
September 2007, the beginning of the next phase in Oriel’s history… Specialist Status.
Recognising the excellence in these core subjects, Oriel is now a Specialist Mathematics and Computing College. It is an exciting time with many developments that will give every student at Oriel the chance to learn in a state-of-the-art and highly enjoyable educational environment.
We see Specialist Status as an opportunity to enrich the learning of all students not just in these core subjects but in all facets of college life. With better access to the latest computing equipment and increased funding to enable a wide range of enriching opportunities, all students will benefit. Students can look forward to:
- The development of a resource rich and visually stimulating Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) accessible over the Internet from any computer in the world.
- Increased computer access including laptops for integration into every learning room.
- Cutting edge technology in personal Student Response Systems (SRS) enabling interactive participation within every learning room.
- Implementation of ICT software in everyday lessons across all areas of the college, creating stimulating and interesting lessons encouraging all students to attain their goals.
- Interactive Whiteboards in all classrooms with highly skilled staff to best utilise the learning opportunities available.
Mathematics and Computing are at the heart of the curriculum for everyone throughout their education. With Specialist Status in these areas we will not only improve teaching and learning across the college but also create an exciting educational environment that enables all learners to achieve their best in an enjoyable atmosphere. The Specialist Schools and Academies Trust outlines the role as:
"Mathematics and Computing colleges will raise standards of achievement and develop further interest of the specialist subjects across the whole ability range leading to whole school improvement. Mathematics and ICT will improve the quality of teaching and learning in the specialism and develop innovative approaches to the teaching and learning of the specialist subjects. They will have a mathematically rich curriculum that embraces all aspects of college life and will develop and share good practice across the curriculum, particularly through considered use of ICT." "Mathematics and Computing colleges will raise the post-16 participation rate in mathematics and computing related subjects through promoting the full range of courses available. Colleges will also provide young people with the skills and appropriate careers guidance needed for students to progress into employment, further training or higher education related to the specialist subjects according to their individual abilities, aptitudes and ambitions." "Mathematics and Computing colleges will be active partners in a learning society with their local education partnerships and communities. They will be the lead centre in sharing resources as well as developing and sharing good practice across the whole community. Colleges will also actively engage and work with business and industry to promote the use of mathematics and computing outside of the college."
