Interview wtih Headteacher Richard Wijeratne
When and why was the school created?
The Lady Elizabeth was created by Mrs Veronica Barnes on the Naya of her home in 1987. She had been tutoring some children and her reputation grew to the extent that she decided to open a school.
What is the mission/philosophy of the school?
The Lady Elizabeth School is a vibrant independent, co-educational, day school offering a complete education in English to pupils from two to eighteen plus. Traditional values are supported with emphasis placed on self-respect. These values are maintained through a focus on Pastoral Care. Particular focus has been placed upon providing a truly extensive curriculum to ensure pupils are able to excel in their area of strength.
What curriculum does the school follow?
The School provides both the British National Curriculum and the Spanish Curriculum, throughout.
Are the children taught Spanish and if so to what level?
Pupils begin learning Spanish aged two. They all attempt the Institute de Cervantes Spanish Examinations at various levels and all complete GCSE Spanish at the end of year 11 as a compulsory subject. Pupils may then choose to continue their Spanish Studies to AS and A
level.
Are any subjects taught in Spanish?
All of the pupils attempting the Spanish Curriculum are taught in Spanish.
From which countries do the students come from? What is the ratio of Spanish students to foreign students?
We have a majority of British pupils, followed by Spanish, German, Russian and others
What percentage of students stay at the school for the full duration of their education?
Approximately 65-70%
What benefits would you say the school has over other International schools in the area?
The main benefit is that the School has a hugely diverse curriculum that is attractive to all ability groups.
We offer 19 GCSE subjects and 20 A levels, allowing pupils to select subjects they like and a good in. Apart from the usual subjects, we offer Food Science, Fashion Design, Child Development, Business Studies, Media Studies, Psychology, Drama, and Music.
How does the school select teachers?
All teachers are selected following receipt of a letter of application with a full CV. During a day of school, the prospective member of staff will be schooled by the Headmaster, the Head of the specific Department and be required to offer a pre-planned lesson to one of the appropriate classes. Then they would meet with other member of staff to receive feedback as to working conditions and the team that they would be joining. It is essential that the successful candidate has complete confidence in the School and what we can offer them. The Staff are the most important asset within the School and they are supported in their needs and through a lengthy period of induction. Following this it is hope that good teaching staff will stay loyal to the School.
What is the student / teacher ratio?
In Primary 1: 16 average
In Secondary 1: 16 average
In the Sixth Form 1: 10
What extracurricular opportunities (sports, clubs, community service etc) are available for students?
There is a huge variety of extra-curricular clubs including; gymnastics, swimming, soccer, volleyball, karate, tennis, performing arts, as well as a full programme for younger children.
Do you have strict safety/security polices in place within the school, that prevent the children from harm? ie, entering the premises
All visitors are required to pass by the School offices to gain access to the Schools.
How do you personally feel a child would benifit overall from attending your school over a state establishment?
The entire ethos and approach to the children and young adults is to support and encourage. They benefit completely from this and achieve wonderful successes that are often in excess of their potentials. The concept of Self-Respect lies at the core of all that is done and makes for a truly positive atmosphere amongst Staff, Parents and Pupils.
The large majority of pupils continue to university or College. In the recent academic year 29 pupils joined 23 universities, to follow 21 courses in 8 countries. This year, one student achieved the highest mark for English Language in the World in the Cambridge International Examinations and five others achieved highest marks in Spain in a variety of Subjects.
The School was for the tenth year placed in the Top 16 International Schools in Spain.
What is the application process and do you have a waiting list?
To apply simply call the School or apply on line. www.laudeladyelizabeth.com
(Feb 2010)
