The curriculum is underpinned by a strong, ethical Personal Development programme, with Christian values applied to topics such as relationships, citizenship, drugs, sex and health. Study skills, problem solving and thinking techniques and self-management skills are taught across the curriculum. A structured homework and revision programme supports classwork and trains pupils in the disciplines of self-study and the demands of further education.
Careers advice takes place throughout a pupil's life at Thames Christian College in both formal and informal ways. Pupils receive opportunities at careers fairs and other settings to meet people from different careers to open up vocational ideas for consideration. Year 10 pupils undertake a week's work experience programme. Staff assist pupils in their choice of GCSE and A level subjects in order not to preclude them from careers they may wish to pursue at a later date. It is anticipated that most pupils leaving Thames Christian College will go on to university before entering their chosen career.
Ben's Story
Ben came to Thames in Year 9 from a local state school where, academically, he had a patchy two years. He had a lot of catching up to do, but the excellent teaching at Thames enabled him to achieve 100% A*-C GCSE passes. He achieved A*s in Art and Personal Finance, As in Maths and Business Studies, Bs in English, Physical Education, ICT, Science and Additional Science and Cs in English Literature and Religious Studies.
Ben gained a scholarship to Gordonstoun College in Scotland where he is taking his A levels, after which he wants to study to become an architect.
The school's Christian ethos pervades all aspects of school life and forms an excellent basis for students' outstanding spiritual and moral development.
Ofsted, May 2010
