Our College
Welcome from the Principal
CCSS is a unique and special place to learn. At a time when the best universities are looking for more than top grades, we firmly believe that the pathway to university lies not just in excellent teaching, but in close pastoral care, a broad education and personal guidance from dedicated and highly skilled teachers.
Individual and respectful approach
CCSS offers a unique blend of group and personal tuition. We believe that our one-to-one tutorials are crucial in developing a productive rapport between teacher and student. Similarly, small class sizes (an average of just six students) encourage the in-depth acquisition of knowledge, the development of important examination and personal skills, and the deeper understanding that comes from regular interaction with teachers and other students. If, like me, you are passionate about education, you will know how vital these relationships are in contributing to academic success and transforming the lives of young people.
Preparation for university
For many students contemplating A-levels, a change of school is the right choice to make. Most students have one clear aim in mind when entering a sixth form: taking up a university course that is appropriate for their future aspirations. Yet so many make choices for university that all too often result in them underachieving or even dropping out. CCSS takes its mission seriously: we prepare students not just academically through excellent teaching but also socially for the university years ahead. With close guidance from teachers and tutors, our students develop a greater sense of responsibility, respect for themselves and others, and confidence in their own abilities – all essential for later success at university and beyond.
High quality teaching and outstanding pastoral care
We are proud of the achievements of our students, whatever their background. We are also proud of what our students, parents and others say about us. The recent ISI inspection of the College concluded that ‘CCSS provides a high quality educational experience, achieving its aim of providing an individual approach to every student’. Teaching is ‘high quality’ and the pastoral care that we provide for every individual student is ‘outstanding’. Parents interviewed by inspectors were particularly pleased about the range of subjects on offer and the help provided for students to make progress. Students commented that teachers are ‘always there for them’.
Personal growth and development
In an increasingly international and inter-dependent world, young people at CCSS prepare for the future through living and working alongside other students from the UK, Europe and the wider world. In addition, our Enrichment Programme, the cultural and educational opportunities offered by the finest university town, and our extensive trips and visits into the world beyond, all offer excellent opportunities for students to develop their cultural and sporting interests, resulting in a ‘roundedness’ that both universities and employers value. At the same time, we treat every student as a member of our family, as an individual and not just as one of many, while still fostering an increasing sense of independence. That is why once they leave, so many of our students want to keep close contact with the students and teachers at CCSS who have been so influential in their success.
I hope that these few introductory words will leave you with the impression that CCSS is a very special place. I hope also that you will take the opportunity to find out more through this website or by visiting us in the near future.
I look forward to meeting you.
Stuart Nicholson Principal
