Gambia Methodist Academy

Since its inception in September 1995, the Gambia Methodist Academy has steadily emerged as one of the best schools in The Gambia in terms of academic excellence and discipline.

The secret of our phenomenal success lies essentially in a dynamic board of governors and staff that believe in high quality teaching, painstaking attention to detail and discipline.

Our aim is to mould students to become responsible citizens, people of integrity who will contribute in determining the destiny of The Gambia.

Consequently, we insist on discipline and hard work, maintaining a good appearance and relationships and love for the environment. In order to realize these ideals, we provide an education which fully takes into account our students’ character development, interest, ability and aptitude, the country’s vocational needs and the economic resources of the state. This is to ensure that our students education can be of use to the country and at the same time, provide opportunities for them to be successful in life.

Grade 7

Guided by the catchment area design system of the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education we unconditionally admit all Grade 6 Methodist Preparatory and Kindergarten School – MPK – students who wish to enroll into Grade 7.

Grade 6 students from other lower basic schools take an entrance exam in June. The number of places available determines the acceptable pass mark each year.

Grade 10

Below are guidelines for acceptance into programmes offered at the senior school. Requirements vary annually depending on the performance of GABECE candidates.

We have six departments, each managed by a departmental head. The Head of Department – HOD – supervises academic work in the department and monitors and assesses the performance of the teachers in the department. The HOD keeps the principal informed about the staff performance and departmental needs and progress.

The student population is above 750. Over the years we have enrolled more girls than boys.

Class size is kept low. This makes it possible for teachers to exercise effective control over students during lessons and encourages effective teaching and learning.

In the junior school, due to the demand for admission and the need to help promising students, some classes have over 42 students. This is possible since the rooms are spacious enough to accommodate them.

Teaching Staff

We recruits highly trained and qualified teachers mainly from the West African sub region who possess certificates from reputable universities and colleges.

Most teachers have over five years teaching experience. Their effectiveness is seen in the excellent performance of the students. The average number of teachers is forty three.

The multinational composition of our teachers has had a positive impact especially in the area of decision making as diverse views are put forward for consideration.

Administrative & Support Staff

The administrative staff is headed by the principal who is responsible for the general administration of the school and the management of its resources.

The principal is assisted by the vice principal and two senior teachers in the execution of the office’s responsibilities. The principal’s office has two secretaries, an administrative assistant, a finance officer and the school’s cashier.

Support staff comprises the cleaners and security men. They are responsible for maintaining a hygienic and refreshing environment as well as securing the school’s assets.

Systems Enhancing Effective Teaching and Learning

• The creation of the position of Heads of Departments to co-ordinate and supervise academic work in the different departments including organizing departmental workshops.
• Our management committee comprises the principal, vice principal, senior teachers and heads of department. We meet at regular intervals to strategize, assess and implement the policies of the school.
• The establishment of the guidance and counselling unit reinforces the pastoral care we provide. Cases referred to the unit are those which affect the students’ academic and moral development. The unit operates an open door system which encourages individual students to seek counselling on personal matters.
• Weekly staff briefings are held to discuss academic and other matters.
• Continuous assessments are done throughout the academic year and examinations are held at the end of each term.
• Re-enforcement classes are organized after school to provide extra coaching for students.

STAFF CODE OF CONDUCT

The following code of conduct for staff will be regarded as an agreement undertaken between the Gambia Methodist Academy GMA and its employees. In addition, every employee is expected to familiarize himself/herself and comply with the terms and conditions of service.

The objectives of this staff code of conduct are to maintain a conducive and constructive working relationship and to ensure discipline and integrity within the school environment.

All staff will be issued appointment letters detailing the date and category of appointment, probationary period and the initial salary and allowances attached to the position.

All staff will be classified under one of the following

• Administrative or managerial
• Academic
• Support

Clear objectives and responsibilities for senior management positions are made available. It is therefore the responsibility of senior members to explain to subordinates the expectations of their individual and collective performances and to review these from time to time offering guidance and support when necessary.

In case of poor work performance or behaviour, the head of department and /or senior teacher in consultation with the principal must notify the staff member outlining clearly the problem(s) and advising for a change in attitude otherwise probationary period may be extended and confirmed appointment delayed.

WORKING HOURS

Normal hours of work are Monday to Thursday from 8.15am – 2.15pm and on Friday from 8.15am – 1.05 pm.

Staff are expected to stay on campus irrespective of whether occupied in the classroom or not. Permission must be obtained should the need arise for a member of staff to leave during working hours.

Required Teaching Periods Per Week

• Vice Principal – 12 hours
• Senior Master – 14 hours
• Heads of Department – 18 hours
• Teachers – 24 hours

Work Manual

Every academic staff will be issued a copy of the teachers work manual. It is of importance that the content of this document is studied and complied with.

DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES

High standards of conduct, performances and dress code are expected from all staff.

Formal disciplinary procedures are tabulated below. These are guidelines to enforce and establish a smooth working relationship.

Staff Offences

Insubordination i.e. refusal to execute work or work related instructions

Fraud or dishonest behaviour

Incompetence

Absence without leave or reasonable excuse

Repeated lateness or tardiness in appearance or work

Verbal abuse in work environment

Physical fighting

Sexual advances or harassment especially to pupils

Staff List 2018/2019