Every single child should leave Packwood with a developed sense of what he or she can achieve, and to that end they are all scholars. Whilst the origin of the term ‘scholar’ essentially referred to anyone who went to school, it has now become synonymous with a person who has extensive knowledge in a particular field.
As our Year 8s complete their Common Entrance exams today, they come to the end of their academic journey at Packwood. Common Entrance is a rigorous curriculum – far beyond the Key Stage 3 National Curriculum – which requires the learner to develop mature thinking skills, and ability to retain a bank of knowledge (not too far behind GCSEs) and prepare for formal exams. Completing these exams is an affirmation of the work they have put in, their developed intellectual curiosity and maturity and a moment in time when they earn their wings. Whilst Common Entrance has changed in that entry to their senior schools is no longer dependent on a certain grade, it still represents an important transition point for them. The tradition of handing them their grades as they step off the bus from the leavers’ trip represents an important moment for them all.
For those who have attempted scholarships this year, they have demonstrated an additional commitment to a particular subject or passion, and in continuing our long standing tradition of scholarships gained to a range of senior schools, our congratulations are extended to all those who have extended their study to the following schools:
Shrewsbury: Sir Michael Palin All-rounder, Music, Drama, Art and Academic awards gained
Shrewsbury High School: Academic, Sport and Drama awards gained
Oundle: Academic award gained
Harrow: Music award gained
Ampleforth: Academic award gained
Tudor Hall: Drama award gained
