SMC Best
As we strive to be an even more outstanding school, we renew our focus on standards. The SMC Best will focus on standards in the classroom including pace and uniform. As always, we make no apology for expecting excellence, it is this relentless focus that has enabled the school to achieve its most recent prestigious accolades.
St Mary's College Hull already holds an Ofsted 'Outstanding' judgement and was awarded Sunday Times 'Comprehensive School of the Year 2024'. However, as we strive to be an even more outstanding school, we renew our focus on standards.
The SMC Best will focus on standards in the classroom including pace and uniform. As always, we make no apology for expecting excellence, it is this relentless focus that has enabled the school to achieve its most recent prestigious accolades.
In the main school the SMC Best will focus on three key areas inside the classroom:
- The pace at which students work
- Presentation and Uniform
- Transition times
Pace
Students are expected to make a strong start and an excellent exit at each lesson. This will include waiting behind their chair for the lesson start with all outdoor wear removed, equipment on the desk and bags on the floor, ready to learn.
During the lesson they will be encouraged to make best use of learning time so no opportunities are lost, this might include willingness to giving things a go and applying work focus at all times in a safe and supportive environment.
At the end of a lesson students will be dismissed row by row, leaving the classroom ready for the next group of learners and exiting in a calm manner.
Uniform
Students are expected to adhere to professional standards of appearance outlined by the school as agreed to in their first year at SMC.
Any uniform issues will be logged and monitored.
The basic uniform expectations are:
- Skirts: Must be knee length (slightly above or slightly below. No jersey / stretchy material. Must not be rolled up at the waist.
- Trousers: Must not be skinny. Ankles must not be on show.
- Socks: plain dark sock, not branded, not trainer socks.
- Outdoor jackets & winter wear: SMC uniform coats only.
- Shoes: Black shoes. Trainers / leather look trainers are not allowed.
- Jewellery: Only a discreet crucifix and a wristwatch (no smart watches. Clear studs cannot be worn.
- Lanyards: a full lanyard and ID card on display.
By being our SMC Best we can achieve our best every day.
Transition Time
Students are expected to move promptly in between lessons with direction and purpose and to follow the one-way system as outlined for the safety and comfort of others.
This 'transition time' includes all movement, corridor conduct, manners, no hands-on behaviour, respect for staff and students.
Staff will welcome students at the door as they arrive on time for their next lesson.
Rewards
The system at St Mary’s College for praising and rewarding pupils encourages them to work towards their SMC Best milestones by displaying:
- Excellent effort
- Outstanding work
- Respect & tolerance for each other
- Good homework
- Good News Friday mentions.
Students can also gain points for attendance, punctuality, correct uniform & appearance, participation in collective worship, exceptional conduct, and attending clubs, revision and study support sessions.
They are also recognised for showing our school student characteristics by being:
- Confident
- Compassionate
- Culturally accepting
- Conscientious
On reaching each of the following milestones in an academic year a certificate of achievement and a small prize recognises their commitment and efforts:
- BRONZE: 500 points
- SILVER: 1000 points
- GOLD: 1500 points
- EXCEPTIONAL AMBASSADOR: 2000 points, a special SMC Exceptional Ambassador hoodie to wear in school and an invitation to a rewards event.
SMC Exceptional Ambassadors 2022-2023
Attendance Challenges
Throughout the academic year a number of attendance challenges are run where students are rewarded for having 100% attendance over a defined period of time.
They are rewarded with prizes such as an early lunch for the whole class, hot chocolates for a tutor group and on occasions individual prizes.
“Attendance is significantly above the national average. Leaders are tenacious in making sure that pupils come to school regularly. The school’s use of innovative strategies to improve attendance is noteworthy. For example, leaders use data to identify geographical trends in attendance. Leaders put interventions in place in response to these trends. As a result, attendance is excellent.”