HISTORY AT ALLEYNE SCHOOL

HISTORY was created at the Alleyne School yesterday when the institution enrolled its first cohort of sixth formers.

About 17 students, and their parents, walked into the St Andrew institution for an introduction into what they should expect for the next few years, as they undertake Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examinations (CAPE) studies.

Speaking at the brief orientation ceremony, the institution’s proud principal, Julia Beckles, said the introduction of sixth form means that Alleyne students can now stay at their alma mater and further their education.

She thanked the Ministry of Education for their confidence in the school’s ability to manage a sixth form, and also for assistance in providing the staff and other infrastructural support required to get the new form started.

“I also wish to thank you the sixth formers and your parents for placing your confidence in us. We wish to assure you the highest quality instruction and attention from us, and that we will do everything to ensure that,” Beckles said.

The Principal recalled that it was on Friday February 19, 2016, that a committee of six members met to discuss the establishment of a sixth form at Alleyne School.

In September 1947, Alleyne School entered the annals of time when it became the first government secondary school to become coeducational. Beckles said that was a major invocation which changed that institution forever.

“The number seven seems to be an important number for Alleyne School. Here we are today, September 21, 2017, a wonderful day for education in Barbados and a wonderful day for education at Alleyne School. Students interested in pursuing tertiary education now have another option,” she said.

Some of the CAPE subjects the students will be taught include Entrepreneurship, Management of Business, Communication Studies, Environmental Studies, Art and Design and Agricultural Science.

The Principal also placed on record that the establishment of a sixth form also forms part of the school’s strategic vision for 2015-2020.

“We pledge to work hard to ensure your success. In addition to the subjects that you are taking, we will give supporting classes in Research Methods and Academic Writing to assist you,” Beckles said.

A small number of the students starting sixth form went to Alleyne from first form, while the majority attended other secondary schools across the island. (AH)