The area served by the school is bordered by Derby Road, Wingerworth, Walton and Brampton. We do, however, welcome applications from parents living outside the catchment. Our small size undoubtedly helps to create a strong feeling of community and contributes to the ease of relationships between students, staff and parents.
Students are taught predominantly in mixed ability groups with sets in English, Mathematics and Science. Teaching groups are generally small in number and there are no groups over 30. In recent years, we have launched an exciting development in the Key Stage 4 curriculum with the introduction of GNVQ Part One courses in Business, Art and Design, and Health and Social Care. In addition, we have strong links with Consignia plc, the local TEC, Chamber of Commerce and Education Business Partnership, all of whom provide invaluable support for the school in promoting significant work-related, off-site and mentoring opportunities for both Key Stage 3 and 4 students. Our relationship with Sheffield Hallam University constitutes yet a further element in the latter equation.
In conjunction with both industrial and educational partners including the TUC, the school is currently preparing ambitious proposals which , when launched, will establish the school as an Integrated Learning Centre for the communities which make up this particular region of North East Derbyshire. We confidently anticipate that Parkside will move to apply for Specialist School status within the next two years.
The school site is attractive and has been extensively modernised with excellent facilities. We have well- resourced specialist teaching rooms for Science, Design and Technology, Mathematics, ICT, English, Business Studies, Drama, Music, Modern Foreign Languages, Art, Geography, History and Religious Education. The fine Assembly Hall and stage, along with the carpeted classrooms help to create a very pleasant working environment within the school. |