We believe in genuine partnerships: unless we work closely together, our young people will not succeed. Parents are always made to feel welcome at Simon Balle. We value your comments and we try to deal with matters as soon as they occur. Indeed there are many opportunities for parents to visit the school and learn about our work. A regular newsletter keeps parents informed. In addition we contact parents when there is good news to celebrate as well as any cause for concern.
Parents value clear expectations. Our uniform policy is enforced to help provide the correct ethos, in which high standards are accepted. Unform identifies our community and creates a sense of ownership.
We have developed strong links with local schools. The period of transition can be a worrying time for some young people, but we work hard to make it as supportive as possible. For example, we place teaching assistants in primary schools, provide a 'moving on' club for more vulnerable students as well as a summer school for gifted and talented youngsters. We also offer sports and dance clubs and a Year 5 transition classroom.
Our specialist school programme enables us to organise various activities for local primary students. Our grounds provide an excellent field study centre; our ICT staff help maintain several local schools' IT facilities and global arts activities are offered to younger students.
We are developing many links with local business and the wider community, including Hertford Museum, orienteering clubs, environmental groups and retired residents.