Welcome ...

from Steven Boyes, Principal

MPW is an amazing place to study and work. Since it was founded over 35 years ago it has created a special environment in which to learn and achieve. We are one of the country’s best known providers of bespoke fifth- and sixth-form education, offering GCSE and A levels in over 40 subjects. We welcome students of many different types, from Year 10 upwards, who are seeking a socially relaxed yet academically disciplined college to help them achieve their goals.

We are distinctive in many ways, not least in our small classes of no more than eight students, our focus on exam preparation, but also in outstanding personal support for students through our Director of Studies system.

I am often asked of what I am most proud at MPW. It is perhaps that we do not patronise students by allowing low expectations of behaviour or attainment and we help all students to raise their aspirations and give them the confidence that they can achieve them. Every teacher has a clear objective of helping students to succeed. All are very well qualified and often public examiners or textbook authors. Each aims to fulfil the MPW mantra of going the extra mile to help students. We set lots of tests and lots of homework, knowing that this is the most effective way to ensure that students achieve their best possible grades. Our classes are unashamedly exam oriented and designed to stretch and challenge the most able, but support and nurture those who struggle. Running through our pastoral and academic support is an important aim - to prepare students for higher education at a university of their choice. A full team of staff offer specialist university entrance guidance, supported by expert published literature written by MPW tutors.

We are an open community where all years and staff mix well. We believe that if the rapport with students is right then the learning in class will be good as well. Our students are respectful, well motivated and keen to learn. We set firm boundaries of behaviour, which we clearly outline to all students and routinely enforce. Our students rise to the challenge of our adult atmosphere.

We have a superb nineteenth century building which has been completely refurbished to an exceptional standard. We have fully equipped media studies, computing, film rooms and art studios and five specially designed laboratories. Our drama studio has recently been remodelled to be a fully functioning modern performance space and our three libraries have had significant investment in the past couple of years. The college is populated throughout with up-to-date computers, projectors, interactive whiteboards, and audio-visual facilities.

Our extra curricular programme is more comprehensive than ever before. Amongst other options, are opera appreciation, theatre visits, rugby, football, basketball, netball, gym membership, conversational Spanish, debating, poetry appreciation and community service. Recent school visits include Florence, North Wales and the Isle of Wight as well as our making use of our fabulous London location by trips to the V&A, National Gallery and other museums.

I believe that we are a friendly, flexible college that is an outstanding learning environment. I hope that you will want to visit the College and meet with myself or other senior staff who will be happy to discuss further the opportunities that MPW can offer.

Steven Boyes
Principal