Ready to Learn

At New Mills School, we are relentless in our commitment to ensuring every student achieves the best possible outcomes. High academic standards go hand in hand with integrity, respect, and a positive learning environment—values at the heart of our ethos: #DoTheRightThing, #TeamSpirit, and #ThinkBig.

 

Ready to Learn

We expect all students to arrive at school and lessons on time, in full school uniform, properly equipped, and ready to learn. These expectations form the foundation of our Ready to Learn Behaviour Policy, built around three clear principles:

  • Be Ready to Learn

  • Be Respectful

  • Be Safe

This policy underpins our Behaviour Curriculum, which sets out the routines and behaviours necessary for success. Consistency is key: every student at New Mills is expected to uphold these standards in order to maintain a calm, respectful, and secure school environment.

Our expectations extend beyond the classroom. Whether travelling to and from school, attending trips, competing in sporting events, or taking part in any off-site activity, New Mills students represent our school with pride—showing Team Spirit by supporting others, Doing the Right Thing through integrity and respect, and Thinking Big by aspiring to excellence.

 

Rewards at New Mills School

We believe that recognising and celebrating positive behaviour is just as important as addressing behaviour that falls short of expectations. Our rewards system is designed to highlight and celebrate students who live our values every day.

Students are rewarded for:

  • Excellent effort and achievement in lessons

  • Consistently positive behaviour and attitude to learning

  • Contribution to the wider school community and extracurricular life

  • Demonstrating Team Spirit by supporting others

  • Challenging themselves to Think Big and aim high

  • Choosing to Do the Right Thing in difficult situations

 

Examples of How We Reward

  • Achievement Points – awarded through Class Charts for positive behaviour, effort, and commitment

  • Celebration Assemblies – where individual and group achievements are recognised publicly

  • Certificates and Badges – recognising excellence in academic subjects, attendance, leadership, and community contribution

  • End-of-Term Celebration Events – students who consistently meet our expectations and live out our values are invited to special reward activities

By celebrating these successes, we aim to motivate every student to reach their potential while fostering a culture where positive behaviour is the norm.

 

Why It Matters

Our Ready to Learn Behaviour Policy ensures that every student can learn without disruption and every teacher can teach effectively. By combining clear expectations with a strong rewards culture, we safeguard the right of all students to thrive in a safe, supportive, and ambitious environment—driven by the values that define who we are as a school.