Case Study

'Many thanks for a prompt and efficient service. It has made the whole process of Year 9 options considerably more efficient and better informed with a saving on our administration which easily covered the cost'.  

Brian Greer

Associate Headteacher

The Hewett School, Norwich

'I am delighted with the report and have used its main findings very extensively with a wide range of colleagues. It is the rock upon which my new curriculum offer for our current Year 9s (who took the survey as year 8s in June) is built. I will certainly be using your service again for our current Year 8s and also for our current Year 10s'.

Richard Thomson

Deputy Headteacher

The George Ward School, Melksham

'Many thanks. I have found the survey very useful as an insight into the students' thinking and a help in planning the courses for next year. Thank you for your efficient service!'

Paul Smith

Head of Year 9

Castledown School, Andover

Year 8/9 Course Progression Survey

Clients: Wiltshire Local Authority; 8 Wiltshire Schools;

The Hewett School, Norfolk

Background

We have designed an electronic survey service to support Year 8/9 students when making Key Stage 4 course choices; whilst collecting information essential to the curriculum planning process.

Since the students have access to IT suites, an electronic survey is the perfect way to consult them. Far more attractive than paper-based surveys and simple to complete, this survey tends to yield very high response rates. The service we offer is highly efficient, with the school able to access the results within hours of the survey ending. The service is also extremely cost effective, with prices starting as low as £250.

Outcomes

The questionnaire, which is tailored to meet individual schools’ needs, encourages Year 8/9 students to reflect on the key issues they should consider when making course choices. As a result, students are more likely to choose courses that reflect their interests, skills and future ambitions.

Schools are provided with online access to individual student responses, which means that students are able to discuss their responses to the questionnaire and be guided in choosing the most suitable options or routes.

The overall results from the questionnaire provide schools with valuable information to support the curriculum planning process, including levels of interest in subjects and factors that influence course choices.

If you are interested in conducting a course progression survey in your school, please contact us.

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