Inspire to Excel
Our Motto
Our motto, Inspire to Excel, reflects our belief that every member of the Duke’s community can achieve great things. It is about inspiring one another to aim high, embrace challenges and strive to be the very best version of ourselves.
This ambition is represented by our emblem, Pegasus. In mythology, Pegasus is a symbol of aspiration, strength and the pursuit of excellence. As a winged horse, Pegasus embodies the courage to rise above obstacles, the determination to keep moving forward and the freedom to pursue our ambitions.
At Duke’s, Pegasus reminds us that excellence is not simply about reaching a destination; it is about the journey of growth, perseverance and continuous improvement. Guided by our values, we support and challenge one another to spread our wings, realise our potential and achieve success in all that we do.
Our Ethos
At Duke’s, we believe that strong relationships are at the heart of a successful school community. Everything we do is built on Trust, Respect and Resilience. We foster an inclusive environment where every individual feels valued, supported and empowered to achieve their best. Through positive partnerships between students, staff, families and the wider community, we create a culture in which everyone can thrive.
Our Vision
“We are Duke’s. A community built on trust and respect that inspires resilience, ambition and success for all”
We are committed to providing an exceptional education within a vibrant and inclusive community. Through high expectations, meaningful opportunities and a culture of belonging, we inspire every student to develop the resilience, confidence and ambition needed to achieve their full potential. We nurture lifelong learners who are prepared to contribute positively to society and succeed in an ever-changing world.
Our Values
Trust
We build strong relationships through honesty, integrity and accountability. We create an environment where everyone feels safe, supported and valued, and where collaboration and open communication enable individuals and teams to flourish.
Respect
We celebrate diversity and treat one another with kindness, fairness and consideration. We value every voice within our community and foster a culture where everyone feels a sense of belonging and is empowered to contribute.
Resilience
We encourage perseverance, courage and determination in the face of challenge. We believe that mistakes are opportunities for growth and that resilience enables our students and staff to develop the confidence, ambition and character needed for future success.
Together, our values of Trust, Respect and Resilience underpin all aspects of academy life, guiding our decisions, shaping our culture and inspiring excellence in everything we do.
Good Teaching
Your child will receive five properly prepared, well taught lessons each school day. Your child’s work will be regularly marked and assessed. You will receive a detailed homework timetable and homework will be issued in accordance with it.
Good Behaviour
We will uphold your child’s right to be taught and to learn without disruption. Our academy does not permit the selfish or attention seeking behaviour of a few to spoil the education of the many.
After School Learning and Home School Clubs
Students are encouraged to participate in a range of after school activities, such as design technology and IT. Most of the subjects offer additional classes for examination students, and we offer a range of sports including football, basketball and cricket to name a few.
The Learning Resource Centre
The Learning Resource Centre is open Monday to Friday from 8.15am to 4.30pm for students to use the facilities and do their homework. It is an excellent resource for students. We have a great selection of books, study materials and revision resources. The LRC is well equipped with computers. Students can visit the library before school, any time during breaks and up to 4.30pm.
Anti Bullying Policy at Duke’s Aldridge Academy
At Duke’s Aldridge Academy we take bullying very seriously. Students are encouraged to report bullying to their form tutors who will deal with any problems. Each year students work on the issue of bullying through PSHE lessons. If parents are worried about their child being bullied, contact must be made with the child’s form tutor or Year Lead.
Special Educational Needs and Learning Support
Many of our students are gifted and talented and some have special needs because of learning difficulties. We will monitor the needs of students and devise Individual Education Plans for all who will benefit from them. The plans will have clear progress targets and parents will be informed at least twice a year about the progress that is being made. We believe it is important that students with special needs are supported to work and develop along with their classmates in their timetabled lessons.
