The main and regular method of rewarding pupils and recognising their efforts and achievements is through the issuing of Merits and Commendations 

To ensure a consistent approach by all staff, merits and commendations will only be awarded for the following: 

Merits (worth 1 achievement point)  

• homework tasks where it is obvious the student has made an outstanding contribution in terms of time and presentation 
• in lessons, good pieces of work for their ability; effort beyond the normal expectation; performance at or above target in external exams 
• for students who stay after school to do extra work on a regular basis 
• for participation in extracurricular activities  
• significant improvement for struggling students 
• for students who have shown good effort and perseverance 
• assisting staff with jobs/being helpful 

Commendations (worth 3 achievement points)  

• outstanding work, contribution, effort or progress in lessons or in homework  
• outstanding contribution to extra-curricular activities 
• those who have volunteered to help with Tutor run assemblies, open evenings or transition activities  
• any student who has overcome personal difficulties to make a positive contribution  
• There are specific Commendations that link to each of our six Nitre Dame Values of Truth, Justice, Hope, Faith, Love and Joy and staff cam award these as appropriate

Good Conduct (worth 0 achievement points)  

• pupils who have previously struggled to meet the usual expected standards of behaviour but are demonstrating improvement 
• pupils who meet all targets on their report cards  

Merit Cup Assemblies

These take place termly and recognise both individual achievement and the collective achievement of Form Groups. Individuals receive small prizes and the winning Form are invited to a special Merit Cup breakfast.

A range of measures are used when determining awards at Merit Cup including:

• 100% attendance for the Term
• 0 negative behaviour events for the Term
• Highest number of achievement points for the Term
• 0 late marks for the Term (to school or to lesson)

Progress Leaders will sometimes give out additional, bespoke awards (such as a ‘Warm Heart’ award to pupils who demonstrated exceptional kindness).

Postcards of praise/Certificates of Achievement/Stars of the Week

These are awarded regularly by Curriculum Areas and Progress Leaders and can also be awarded on a half-termly basis by the Headteacher for exceptional achievement

Annual Awards Evening

Once per academic year, the school holds an Awards Evening.

This recognises academic excellence at GCSE and A Level but also celebrates those pupils who have best lived-out the schools Mission Statement and Our Notre Dame Values – culminating in the Spirt of St Julie Award. Award winner usually receive a gift voucher and, for some awards, a commemorative shield.