Eileen Daw
Head of Middle School

The "Middle School" is our term to describe Years 9 - 11. Like the Lower School it has no actual base (though it does have its own recreational space) but these age groups,  in varying permutations, do much of their socializing, performing and sporting activities together whilst very much being part of the "one school" ethos on which we pride ourselves.

By the time they move into this part of our community, pupils have their educational foundations securely laid and are moving towards choosing their GCSEs. They normally take nine subjects: English language and literature, combined science (two GCSEs)  mathematics, a modern language and then one, two or sometimes three subjects from the creative and performing list (this includes P-E) making up the balance from a second foreign language or humanity. 

The range of activities widens still further with the introduction of occasional Saturday "extra-dimension days" for those who are academically ambitious. Embracing pupils from Years 9 - 13 (and the occasional Year 8) subjects covered have ranged from an investigation into aspects of the paranormal, writing for the stage,  workshops on Henry 1V part one,  Twelfth Night and time considering "What is meaning in life?"  It's all part of encouraging students to be inquisitive learners.

Whilst the emphasis is on self-motivation and taking responsibility for their own actions there is a robust safety net for those who need it.   Indeed a particular feature of this part of the school is that a senior tutor is specifically tasked with mentoring pupils for whom the business of being a teenager has resulted in a temporary loss of direction for whatever reason. It's the descendant of a scheme pioneered by Manchester Grammar School.  

Frensham is a friendly place where staff-student relationships are free from inhibiting formality. Expectations of mutual respect, good behaviour and personal achievement are high."