Duff Miller Sixth Form College provides structured tuition for its students, based on the demands of their exams and closely tailored to the specific needs of the individual. What distinguishes us, as a college and as a community, is an open and supportive atmosphere which encourages our students to develop on both academic and personal levels. We pride ourselves on our friendly and approachable teaching personnel, who are freely available to answer questions or provide guidance and reassurance. Our staff room has an open-door policy and it is not unusual to find teachers and students continuing classroom discussions outside lessons. A combination of small class-sizes and close pupil-teacher relationships helps every student to realise their full potential. Small groups encourage participation and debate within the classroom, while allowing staff to focus closely on individual pupils. Duff Miller takes pride in the diversity of its pupils and in being able to meet their different needs, whether we are preparing them for medical or Oxbridge interviews or guiding them through their retakes.
We identify both strengths and weaknesses as early as possible and monitor the students' progress closely throughout the year. Regular testing is provided in a precise simulation of exam conditions. While we work to produce confident, well-rounded individuals, the ultimate aspiration for all the students is academic success and we aim to keep the importance of the exams uppermost in their minds. The students are encouraged to take some responsibility for their own planning and organisation, as well as being carefully guided by our staff at every stage.
A system of personal tutelage ensures that the students are always held accountable for their work and behaviour. Specifically, personal tutors are assigned a number of students drawn from their own teaching groups, and take special responsibility for their progress and welfare throughout their time at the college. This relationship guarantees that the student never wants for advice and support in both academic and pastoral matters whenever they are required.
Our staff are all graduates and experts in their particular subjects who are practised in meeting the expectations of the different exam boards. Many have experience of working as external examiners, which proves invaluable to our students. They meet the requirements of the syllabus while maintaining the sense of interest and excitement which we believe is crucial to tuition at Duff Miller. Exam results are a key focus but these can be achieved within the context of inspirational lessons with an emphasis on liveliness and participation.
