Year 8 – Mrs Doran  

Being the Progress Lead for Year 8 at Millfield is a role I take great pride in. I took over this year group at Easter during their time in Year 7 and, although I have only been working with them for a short time, I already feel I know them incredibly well. They are a welcoming, determined and resilient group of young people, and I feel privileged to support them as they continue their journey through Key Stage 3. 

Year 8 is an important stage where students build on the foundations established in Year 7, becoming more independent, confident, and responsible learners. We encourage every student to embrace new opportunities, challenge themselves and strive to be the very best version of themselves. 

As Progress Lead, my priority is to ensure every student feels safe, valued and supported. I pride myself on building positive relationships with students, taking the time to get to know them as individuals so they always know they have someone to turn to for support, advice or simply a listening ear. Alongside monitoring academic progress, I place a strong emphasis on pastoral care, helping students develop resilience, confidence and the personal skills they need to succeed both inside and outside the classroom. 

I have high expectations of all our students and promote excellent behaviour, attendance, effort and kindness as the foundations for success. At the same time, I recognise that every young person is different, so I work closely with students, families, staff and external agencies where appropriate to ensure everyone receives the support they need. Safeguarding and wellbeing remain at the heart of everything I do. 

One of the greatest strengths of our Year 8 community is the way students encourage and support one another. I hope they continue to show respect, compassion and resilience, celebrating each other’s successes and helping one another through challenges. 

I am proud to be part of their journey at Millfield and look forward to seeing them continue to grow into confident, respectful and ambitious young people over the coming years.