PARENTS discussed plans to turn Tavistock College into an outstanding school by 2014 at an inspiring meeting with the new principal.

Helen Salmon, who transformed her previous school into one of the most improved in the country, told parents she had come to Tavistock College to make it an outstanding school which students were proud to attend.

She said: 'It's not going to happen overnight but it is achievable.

'The curriculum will change quite markedly for next September.'

Mrs Salmon said some students had not been well-served by the old curriculum and it needed to be revamped to allow all students to achieve highly, whatever their talents.

Academic Year 9 students will be able to start their GCSEs early and take extra subjects in Year 11 after they complete their first set of exams in Year 10.

She said: 'We've got an outstanding DT department which is going to offer a diploma in manufacturing.

'This is a high level qualification which should take students into skilled careers in engineering. We will be introducing more BTECs and we will expect students to achieve highly.

'Once you get provision right the achievement improves because students are enjoying learning and they've got a route to university or a good job.'

Mrs Salmon also plans to develop the sixth form with stronger university partnerships and, in the long term, more adult learning and degree modules on site.

She said she was really excited about the potential of the Tavistock community and felt proud coming to the town because of the enormous amount of skills and talent in the wider community.

Mrs Salmon continued: 'I also want to work with local businesses and the community to help our children succeed. I want dialogue with parents and I'm not afraid of people being constructively critical and helping us improve.

'I'm proposing to set up a parent forum so that parents have an effective voice in school. I really want to know what parents think so we have a two-way process.'

Mrs Salmon discussed the importance of solid foundations in year 7 and 8, so students had a great experience as soon as they reached the college and received extra support where necessary.

'There will be more emphasis on good behaviour and good learning in the classroom so students know they're here to learn. That's not just about sanctions, but about them enjoying what they're doing and having people saying well done and rewarding their success,' she added.

'Improving behaviour and attitudes takes time but I want students to feel proud of being here. Many do, but we have to make sure all students feel they have a stake in the college. We have been focusing on the basics, with an emphasis on uniform and having their organiser and equipment, as well as instilling mutual respect.'

The college is also making use of students' IT skills and their enjoyment of using computers.

Parents commented on the positive effect SAM Learning — an online revision program — is having on Year 10 and 11 students.

'There are lots of strengths at Tavistock College and lots of things that need to get better,' said Mrs Salmon.

'Turning Tavistock College into an outstanding school is eminently achievable if we build on current strengths.

'By 2014 I want Ofsted to be saying that this school is outstanding. I want a successful culture where children come here to succeed and do their very best in exams and in life.'