The organisation of the school day at St Paul’s Academy is designed to optimise teaching and learning opportunities whilst allowing our students adequate time to eat breakfast and lunch as well as play and socialise with their friends. We believe the start and end of the school day are crucial to prepare for the learning ahead and then to reflect and celebrate the many successes of the school day.

The Student Gate opens at 7.45am.  Students are able to access the inner Courtyards or have breakfast in the Restaurant.  Porridge and toast is available, free of charge each morning, for all students.  Other breakfast items are on sale [croissants, pain au chocolate, bacon and sausage roll, mini hash browns and a range of cereal].

At 8.19am, the bell rings, indicating to students a two minute warning before the Student Gate closes.  At 8.21am, the Student Gate is closed, and students who arrive after this time go via the Pedestrian Gate where they are signed in as 'late'. 

Students assemble with their year group in designated areas ready to be welcomed by the Pastoral Team.  At this point, 'ready for learning checks' are completed: we ensure that not only students are physically prepared with the correct uniform but also emotionally prepared for the day ahead.  Students are either walked to the Tutor Rooms by their Form Tutor or walked to Assembly once a week.  Across the week, the morning Form Time allows students to prepare for their school day, take part in the PSHE and reading programme and attend assemblies.

At St Paul’s Academy, the school day consists of six 50-minute lessons. Time is also allocated during the day for students to top up their water bottles during break time: good hydration is key to effective learning.  At break, student are able to purchase food through out 'Grab and Go' service.  At lunchtime, students enjoy a 50-minute break, again, with food being available in the Restaurant and from the Food Pod. Seating areas outside are available for students with a packed lunch. After school, students regularly remain on the campus, either working under the supervision of teaching or support staff or taking part in organised activities.

Advantages of the Academy Day

The Academy Day is organised in such a way as to:

• Enhance the quality of teaching and learning for all;
• Provide opportunities for students to eat and drink throughout the day;
• Support the wellbeing of both students and staff by providing appropriate working times and break times;
• Ensure students have quality time with their friends to develop key social skills.

Curriculum Plan

The table below shows the number of lessons allocated to each subject for each year group.