The Bernard Files.: XP School, Doncaster

Well.

If you are reading this post because for some reason you have come to like my usual rubbish and dribble, you will be disappointed. BUT DON'T STOP READING!!!

Today I began the first of my visits to schools, the purpose of this trip in the first place.
So I was up early as I didn't want to miss my train, and after 25 mins I was there. Upon asking the taxi driver for a receipt, there was a bit of 'robust discussion' when he was trying to tell me that the date was the 20th, when in fact it was (and still is at the moment) the 22nd. He left still muttering at me, totally unconvinced.

Upon entering the school I was taken with the warmth of everyone who I spoke with, from the office staff, to Andy Sprakes, the Principal, to my tour guides Toby and Rae, and everyone else who I spoke with.

My guides were only 13 years old, but they could tell me everything about their school, their learning, the lot.
I could tell that they loved school and loved learning. The best part was when they opened the door to the drama area and straight away their manner changed and they became more passionate about what they were telling me. When I told them I had noticed a difference in their manner they assured me I was on the right track, as they were both passionate about drama, and as soon as they entered this space I could see that it held special significance for them. It turns out that they have written a play together, and that it will be performed for the school at the end of the year. There are signs around the school advertising auditions, and the learning involved in producing this play is so real and relevant to these two kids.

I would come back this far just to see this play!!

For the next hour or so I had the pleasure of spending time with Andy Sprakes, the Principal.
It was clear right from the start that Andy has passion for what he does, and that through his vision and leadership his staff and children share a similar passion for learning.
There was so much that I took from Andy, especially after hearing how one of his earlier schools was burnt down, and how he defied political and public opinion to send the kids to other schools and managed to get a new one built, thus keeping his community together.
The school was in a depressed area of Doncaster after so many coal mines and manufacturing businesses closed down, so it was important for Andy to keep his school community together. He faced knockback after knockback, but persevered until he successfully managed to get his new school built.
His is an amazing story.

Andy Sprakes and myself.

I could go on and on about this school, but I'd never know where to stop. Let's just say it exceeded my expectations and has given me so much to take back to my own school.

Tomorrow it is off to Lincoln to visit Hartsholme Academy, a school which Andy said is doing so many amazing things. Considering how well he is doing at his school, this next one must be something impressive indeed.