REVIEW OF Royal Crown School BY student, Justus Haseley

(3.5) Student Experience

I'm a student at Royal Crown School, and overall, I have a positive experience here. I particularly appreciate the supportive atmosphere and the dedication of our teachers. They go the extra mile to help us succeed. If I were to make a change, I'd like to see more available study spaces on campus. The library can get crowded, and having more study areas would make it easier for students to focus and work collaboratively. One thing I wish I had known before coming here is the significance of time management. The workload can be demanding, and understanding how to manage my time efficiently has been a valuable lesson. In terms of what I'd change about the school, I think a bit more flexibility in the class schedule could benefit students. Sometimes, having more options for course times or ways to personalize our academic journey would be helpful. Overall, though, I find Royal Crown School to be a welcoming and academically enriching place.

(3.5) School Leadership

I hold our school leaders, like the headmaster, guidance counsellors, and teachers, in high regard. They excel in many aspects, such as maintaining discipline, organizing school events, and offering academic support. The headmaster's leadership sets a positive tone for the school, and the guidance counselors are instrumental in helping students with personal and academic challenges. However, I believe they could enhance their efforts in career guidance. It would be beneficial if they provided more resources and opportunities for students to explore potential career paths and develop essential skills for the future. While they do a great job overall, I think an increased focus on preparing students for life beyond school would be a valuable addition.

(4.5) Teaching

I appreciate the level of challenge my teachers provide, as it encourages me to learn and grow. However, there are moments when I feel like there's a lot on my plate, and it can be a bit overwhelming. It's crucial to have a balance. In terms of understanding what teachers expect, I usually have a clear idea because they communicate their expectations well. They provide guidelines and learning objectives for assignments, which helps a lot. When my teachers talk about success, I believe they imagine students excelling academically and personally. It means mastering the subject matter, developing problem-solving skills, and being prepared for the future. Success isn't just about grades; it's about becoming a well-rounded, knowledgeable individual. My teachers spend a lot of time working hard to make sure I understand the work

(3.5) Academics

The difficulty of the work I encounter in school can be a bit of a mixed bag. Some subjects and assignments feel just right in terms of challenge. They push me to think critically and learn actively, which is great. However, there are times when the workload can become quite demanding, and it can be challenging to balance everything. Regarding the usefulness of what I'm learning, I do believe it will be beneficial in my future. While it might not always seem immediately applicable, the knowledge and skills I'm acquiring are invaluable. Learning how to analyze information, solve complex problems, and communicate effectively are skills that can be applied to various aspects of life, not just in a specific job or field. Moreover, education is not solely about the content we learn; it's about the process of learning itself. It helps foster a curious and adaptable mindset, which is vital in an ever-changing world. So, even when some topics seem unrelated to my future goals, I see them as building blocks for my overall growth and readiness for what lies ahead.

(3.5) Extracurriculars

I'm actively involved in a few extracurricular activities, like the chess club and the basketball team. I enjoy them because they allow me to pursue my interests and stay active. While my school offers a range of clubs and teams, there are a few that I wish they had. For instance, I'd love to see a band and strings club or a ping pong club as I have a keen interest in those areas. Regarding whether everyone has enough to do, I think it varies. Some students might find it challenging to balance their academic workload with extracurriculars, but the school does its best to accommodate various interests and schedules. It's important to have a good balance and allow students to explore their passions while also focusing on their studies.

(4) Students

Describing the students at my school to someone unfamiliar with it, I'd highlight the diversity among our student body. We have students from various backgrounds, with unique interests and talents. The atmosphere at the school is more reminiscent of a tight-knit town rather than a bustling city. This is likely because our school is relatively small and located in a rural area, which fosters a strong sense of community. When it comes to succeeding at our school, there isn't a specific 'one-size-fits-all' formula. Success is achieved by those who show dedication, put in hard work, and actively engage in the learning process. The school, however, takes it as a responsibility to provide support to all students, ensuring they have the resources and assistance they need to excel academically and personally. As for students who face challenges or may find themselves struggling, these difficulties can be as diverse as the students themselves. Some might deal with personal issues, others may have learning disabilities, or they might be in need of additional support that the school is willing to provide. Inclusivity is a significant focus in our school. The aim is to make everyone feel welcome and included. Our school administration and students work towards creating an environment where every student, regardless of their background, feels a sense of belonging. However, like in any community, there's an ongoing effort to make sure that inclusivity is continually improved, and that everyone's voice is heard and valued.

(3.5) School Life

If I were giving a tour of our school to a group of visitors, I'd start at the main entrance. It's the heart of our school and a great place to begin because it provides a warm welcome. We could share some insights about the school's history, mission, and values. Then, I would take them to the administrative office. It's a practical starting point because visitors often have questions, and it's where they can find information about various school programs and events. It sets the context for the rest of the tour and helps visitors get oriented. From there, we could explore other areas of the school, like classrooms, the library, and our sports facilities, highlighting what makes each space special. This approach ensures that visitors get a comprehensive view of the school and what it has to offer.

(3.5) Community

My school does feel somewhat like a second home to me. I've spent a significant portion of my life there, built deep friendships, and established strong connections with my teachers. It's not just a place of learning but also one where I've had personal growth, and it holds a special place in my heart. The familiarity of the campus, the routines, and the support system make it feel like a comfortable and safe environment. When it comes to whether everyone feels included and appreciated, I believe that our school genuinely strives to promote inclusivity. There are various activities and initiatives in place to ensure that students from all backgrounds feel welcome. However, like any community, there may be moments when some students don't experience the same level of inclusivity or appreciation. It's an ongoing process to create an environment where every student feels valued, supported, and heard. The school continuously works to address any issues and improve the sense of belonging for all students.

(3.5) School Location

At my school, the general practice is to remain on campus throughout the school day. There isn't a specific policy that permits students to leave during school hours. Our schedule is designed to have classes back-to-back, with designated break times and a lunch period. While we don't leave the campus during the day, these breaks and lunchtime provide opportunities to socialize, relax, and even participate in extracurricular activities. It helps create a sense of community within the school, and it's also a time to catch up with friends and recharge before the next class.

(3.5) Admissions

My admissions process was quite thorough. I started by researching the schools I was interested in and their admission requirements. I had to prepare my transcripts, get letters of recommendation, and write a personal statement that highlighted my experiences and aspirations. It was somewhat stressful due to the uncertainty, but I also found it fun because it allowed me to reflect on my achievements and think about my goals for the future. Looking back, I realize the importance of not just aiming for prestigious schools but finding the right fit for my personal and academic growth, which was a valuable lesson from the experience. Overall the admissions portion was simple and easy. The guidance counsellors were helpful in making sure that I had all my papers and transcripts in.