Rewards

Rewards at Chelmer Valley High School

Rewards are an important aspect of school life. At Chelmer Valley High School, we want to celebrate the successes of our students inside and outside of the classroom. The rewards system is intended to motivate all students to achieve their very best and become confident, independent learners and citizens. 

We understand the importance of recognising, praising and rewarding our students in a way that is meaningful to them.  We seek to use methods that students are motivated by and that inspire the students to achieve well. We will ensure that, regardless of ability and age all students across the school will be able to benefit from the rewards process.

Merits are issued and accumulated in every opportunity possible. To ensure rewards are inclusive we strive to facilitate the following:

• Every member of teaching staff will recognise and reward students for successes within their curriculum area(s).

• Every member of staff will recognise and reward positive behaviours outside of the classroom. 

• Every form tutor will recognise and reward students for their contributions to their tutor group, and to acknowledge their successes outside of school.

• Every member of staff will recognise and reward a student’s effort, attitude and commitment in any aspect of school life.

• Students whose attendance is excellent and who consistently demonstrate a good attitude to learning across all subjects will automatically be given merits. This also applies to students who are actively involved in student leadership.

• Students actively involved in school run extra-curricular activities will be given merits and/or identified by leaders of these activities for recognition as and when they occur. Students participating in the Duke of Edinburgh scheme will receive merits and recognition as appropriate.

Methods of Recognising Students’ Successes

Alongside the Merits rewards system, student successes may be recognised in the following ways, including verbal praise:

Every September will be a fresh start (points will be reset at 1000 merits and students will work towards bronze, silver, gold and platinum for that school year.  When determining students’ rewards points, any behaviour points are deducted from the total.  The points balance thresholds are below:

Where students receive 1500+ merits, they are awarded a Headteacher’s Recognition Award during the celebration assembly at the end of each term. 

At the end of the academic year, there is a Rewards Trip or activity fun day for Years 7-10; Year 11 have their Prom.