The Right Secondary School 2009

Jo Richardson Community School

Head of School: Ges Smith BA (Hons)

Admission Number: 240
Department for Children, Schools and Families number: 301-4029

Open Evening was on Thursday 18 September 2008, 6pm - 9pm

Why the Jo Richardson Community School?

At Jo Richardson Community School we are committed to reaching the highest standards in everything we do. We want all our students to achieve the best possible examination results as well as have the opportunity to take part in a wide range of extra-curricular activities.

We strongly believe this can only happen in a well ordered and respectful environment where only the highest standards of behaviour are acceptable, and where teachers are fully committed to making sure these goals become a reality.

Our new £30 million building on Castle Green offers outstanding facilities, and we would encourage all students and parents to come and see the site. With the excellent reputation we have already created, and the new facilities available, there could not be a more exciting time to be joining the school.

The school's reputation

Central to our work is the motto 'Success for All', a commitment to student progress that is highlighted by positive, effective support systems and productive partnerships between all members of the school community.

We expect our students to set themselves the highest standards in every aspect of their school lives. We also expect our students to pass those high standards into our local community.

The school places great emphasis on the pastoral care and social education of the students.This is based on traditional values that encourage responsibility, self-respect and a commitment to hard work. We have developed a modern uniform that promotes the positive image and reputation of the Jo Richardson Community School, while reflecting the practical needs of the students.

In their first report for the school, Ofsted said: 'Parents are highly satisfied with the work of the school and support it strongly. They think the Head Teacher's leadership is first rate, that teaching is good and that students learn well. They are pleased that their children attend this popular and already oversubscribed school'.

Ofsted added: 'Students are also very positive about their school. They like their teachers and enjoy lessons. They appreciate the excellent involvement the school gives them in seeking their views and acting on them'.

Our home on Castle Green

We moved to our new home on Castle Green in September 2005 and probably have some of the best facilities of any school in the country. The modern design, use of the latest technology and the open space have created a superb learning environment.

The site offers the following:

Internet access and the latest computer projection systems in every classroom
A fully equipped suite of science laboratories and technology workshops
An indoor sports hall
A floodlit international-size all-weather pitch
Fitness room, gymnasium and dance studio
Specialist drama and music facilities, including a state of the art digital recording studio and a television studio
A modern canteen which offers a varied menu and includes a breakfast service
A sixth form centre for A level studies, including specialist teaching rooms, a study support area and a dedicated sixth form common room
A pre-vocational centre which provides opportunities for students to develop practical skills in areas such as food and catering, plumbing, electrical installation, painting and decorating

Our aim is to provide our students with a range of opportunities both inside and outside the classroom. Our extra-curricular activities highlight our commitment to this aim and include the following.

Clubs and teams for boys and girls across a range of sports
Music, dance and drama clubs, trips and productions
Cultural visits and trips both in Britain and abroad
Skiing trips
After-school clubs based on school subjects
Homework club in the library

Success for all

Working together with parents, we are totally committed to our goal of 'success for all'. We aim to make sure that lessons are well-planned and well-delivered by well-qualified teachers in a disciplined environment.

Our systems are set up to regularly monitor students' achievements to make sure everyone is reaching the expected academic standards and taking advantage of the wide range of extra-curricular opportunities.

Jo Richardson was the MP for Barking for 20 years and gave great service to the borough. We are determined that this school will continue to provide a lasting reminder of her contribution to the area.

Closest public transport

Buses - 62, 145, 173, 287, 721

Underground - Becontree Station