Maisy Greene
English teacher Maisy Greene, who is also the Year 8 tutor, successfully shares her love of literature with students, using teaching strategies that keep them interested and engaged with their lessons.
“The culture here at LVS Hassocks is a very positive one. All of the staff really care about each individual child and their outcomes. Students are supported and nurtured in a way that allows them to be themselves and not feel anxious or upset,” says Maisy, who studied creating writing at university and has written her own short stories for children.
“It truly is the nicest environment I have ever worked in, and I believe the children really feel the benefit of this.”
This year, students are immersed in gothic writing, reading Susan Hill’s Woman in Black and Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein. Shakespeare features prominently on the curriculum too, with Othello, Macbeth and Romeo and Juliet all being explored in class, along with a more modern favourite, Malorie Blackman’s Nought & Crosses.
As a teacher of English to children in Year 7 to 10 and Year 12, Maisy explains that the more relaxed environment of LVS Hassocks, along with the excellent provision and resources, enables and encourages students to progress.
“We have amazing facilities here and we, as teachers, receive lots of support and opportunities to personally develop. This ensures that we too continue to learn and have the latest and best skills and knowledge to support our pupils,” says Maisy, adding that the amazing location of the school, surrounded by beautiful countryside, has the added advantage of giving the children plenty of opportunities to get outside and to enjoy their environment – all while remaining within a highly supportive and safe space.
Smaller class sizes are key for excellent teacher-student interaction, with class room numbers being as low as four and no higher than eight. Teachers are able to successfully implement strategies that support the individual child and keep them in what the teaching staff describe as ‘the green zone’ – the place where they feel happiest and best able to learn. “In Year 10, we support the children by teaching them functional skills too, as well as helping them to prepare for their GCSEs,” says Maisy.
“It truly is the nicest environment I have ever worked in, and I believe the children really feel the benefit of this. It is happy, relaxed and nurturing, as well as being lots of fun. Our Principle, Rachel Borland, and the Senior Leadership Team are incredibly supportive, and myself and my colleagues are encouraged to continue to develop our skills and qualifications. It’s simply the best place to teach.”