Head Girl

Message from our Head Girl

Hello, my name is Sophie Scott-Smith and I am the head girl for Stover school. I only joined Stover School at the beginning of year 12 in September 2006. Before that I previously studied at Torquay Grammar School for Girls. Since joining Stover School the opportunities for me have been considerable. I have taken part in the 35 mile Ten Tors team, am currently doing Duke of Edinburgh and I have become part of Teignbridge Youth Council. As well as this, I am studying Physics, Biology, Chemistry and PE for A level.

I find my role in the school is taken very seriously and is important. I believe that each head girl is different and looks at her role in a different way. I believe that a strong head girl represents the school well in public and sets a good example towards the other students. She is someone that the younger students can look up to and the older students can relate to. She should be approachable and understanding, as well as very patient. It is important that the other students can approach her with any problems be they academic or personal. The head girl is a valuable link between the students and the staff, communicating and helping to make changes where needed. I believe that I have these qualities and I can therefore act as a responsible and effective head girl.

Stover School is a truly wonderful place in beautiful surroundings. Due to it being a small school it offers students extra help and support whenever needed. It has many activities going on throughout the academic year which provide pupils with a range of sports and activities to suit all their needs. These range from hockey and netball, to horse riding, Ten Tors and Musical events. This range of activities ensures that all students can find something which they are interested in. I believe that this is a vital part of their education as it keeps their passion for the school and helps to drive them to success. Since joining Stover School I have felt that my key skills and academic progress have improved tremendously and I believe that that is down to the general atmosphere of the school. Most of the students really work hard and are conscious about their progress.

The sixth form centre has become something of a second home to a fair few of the sixth formers. There is a comforting and warm atmosphere which encourages the pupils to take responsibility in a safe environment. The sixth formers have access to the internet throughout the day, their own studies to share between 3-4 others  and access to university and career help. But of course it's not all work as we all do need to have some time to relax and have fun! So during breaks and after school we have plenty to do. There is a pool table, table football, sofas, play station and TV, as well as a kitchen equipped with a toaster, microwave and fridge to keep us all occupied. Somehow the sixth form centre seems to lend its self to all the sixth formers needs.

Students here are normally very conscientious and do put in a lot of effort to get all their work done on time. Sixth formers are given many responsibilities to aid and prepare them for student life at university or life in industry. A lot of help is provided when applying for UCAS and you are sure not to feel alone at any point in your time in Stover Sixth Form. It is supported by Mr Wightman, Head of Sixth Form who does and excellent job of keeping the morale of the centre bubbly and happy, as well as showing us the ropes with UCAS and many other aspects. Mr Baillie, the senior tutor, always gives support wherever and whenever needed. Juliet Bowater, the Chair of the Sixth Form Centre is responsible for the day to day running of the sixth form centre from a student perspective.

Next year (2007/2008) is going to be a big year for Stover School. The introduction of boys into year 12 is particularly significant. These young men will act as excellent role models for our younger boys. Another new development planned is the introduction of a "community hour" during which guest speakers will be invited to talk to us and initiatives will be introduced (including peer mentoring, shared reading and young enterprise). There will be a charity coordinator, Charlotte Small, whom will have an active role in raising funds for deserving charities. Next term, we will be organising a Christmas party for a local special needs school. Plans are also afoot for the introduction of a golf society and an equestrian eventing team. There are also many local inter-school competitions which provide an opportunity for healthy competition in a discipline which sixth formers enjoy.

I am thoroughly looking forward to the challenge of leading the students and representing the school this year.

Sophie Scott-Smith

Head Girl