Transcript Slide 1

www.mountgrace.leics.sch.uk
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2014-2015
Contents
Mount Grace Staff
Uniform & Equipment Continued
Special Educational Needs
• The Teaching Staff
• The Associate Staff
• Special Educational Needs
• The List of Governors
• Uniform
• Uniform
• Supplier
• Girls’ PE Kit
• Boys’ PE Kit
The School Day
Activities & Finance
List of Governors
• Assessment & Reporting System
• Homework
• Key Stage 3 Teacher Assessments
• Times of the Day
• School Meals Service
• Activities & Finance
• Charging Policy
Calendar Dates
Health & Welfare
The School Curriculum
Further Information
• Health, Careers & Relationship Issues
• Community
• Department Overviews
• English
• Maths
• Science
• Art
• Design Technology
• French
• Geography
• History
• ICT
• Music
• Physical Education
• Religious Education
• Life Skills
• School Policies
• Further Information
•
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•
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•
•
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•
Attendance
Visits / Admissions
School Security
Disabled Pupils
School Nurse
Getting to School
Discipline
Rewards
Insurance
Code of Conduct
Bullying Policy
Safeguarding / Child Protection Policy
Uniform & Equipment
Contents
Assessments & Reports
•
•
•
•
Safety in School
Equipment
Valuables
Mobile Phones
• Calendar Dates 2014-2015
2
Mr J Thomas
Mrs C Aguilar
Mr A Barnacle
Miss L Beale
Mr J Bevan
Mr P Bup
Mrs E Chamberlain
Mount Grace Staff
Miss S Chapman
Mr D Collins
Mrs J Crone
Mr A Curtis-Lowe
Mr T Dunne
Ms B Gill
Mr G Hack
Mr N Hind
Mrs C Hughes
Mrs L Lee
Miss A Lester
Mr T Looby
Mr D Marshall
Miss H Morgan
Mr J O’Gara
Mr D Oaten
Mr J Padvis
Mr M Pallett
Mrs K Rooney
Mrs J Sawkings
Mrs J Smith
Mrs H Speake
Mrs C Stilgoe
Mr J Stilgoe
Mrs L Webb
Mrs J Wilson
HEADTEACHER
English
Curriculum Leader for Boys' PE
Curriculum Leader for History /Humanities
Asst Head (Achievement)/Curriculum Leader for
Science
Curriculum Leader for ICT
Asst Head (Inclusion) /Behaviour Support
Manager /SENCO
Curriculum Leader for English
Curriculum Leader for Music
Maths
Art, Design & Technology
YEAR 8 HEAD/Asst Head (Pastoral)/Humanities
Humanities
Curriculum Leader for Geography
Physical Education (Primary Links)
Curr Leader for Religious Education
Science
Humanities
Music
Mathematics
YEAR 9 HEAD/Curriculum
Leader for Design and Technology
Maths
English
Curriculum Leader for French
Curriculum Leader for Life Skills/Physical Education
English
Curriculum Leader for Girls' PE
Curriculum Leader for Maths
French
YEAR 7 HEAD /Science
Curriculum Leader for Art
Science
Art, Design & Technology
Mrs Y Bauld
Mr S Benford
Mrs B Bennett
Miss M Bennett
Miss Mitch Bennett
Mrs P Bevan
Mrs N Boulton
Mrs S Cation
Mrs L Child
Mr S Clarke
Mrs M Cobley
Mrs L Collidge
Mrs R Crisp
Miss K Cummings
Mrs D Dixon
Ms A Egan
Mrs T Elliott
Mrs J Emery
Miss J Finn
Mrs E Gardiner
Mrs S Geary
Mrs A Harris
Mrs W Hopwood
Mrs S Inman
Mrs M Jeyes
Mr S Jordan
Mrs K Mason
Mrs P Mason
Mr I Ratheram
Mr D Reeves
Mr J Rowan
Mrs K Shaw
Mr D Statham
Mr P Stevens
Mrs A Stothard
Miss D Tanser
Mr S Taylor
Mrs P Tomkins
Mrs P Wainwright
Mrs S Widdows
Catering Assistant
Inclusion Team
Food & Textiles Technician
Admin Manager/Attendance Officer
Cook Supervisor
Receptionist (job share)
Reprographics/Library Technician
Catering Assistant
Catering Assistant
Cover Supervisor
Inclusion Team (Science)
Life Skills Administrator
Librarian
Inclusion Team
Lunchtime Manager
Headteacher's Personal Assistant
PE Technician
Lunchtime Supervisor
Learning Support Assistant
Inclusion Team Leader/Higher Level
Teaching Assistant
Lunchtime Supervisor
Catering Assistant
Cover Manager
Higher Level Teaching Assistant
Higher Level Teaching Assistant
Site Manager
Pastoral Support Manager
Lunchtime Supervisor
Systems Manager
Premises Officer
Inclusion Team
Higher Level Teaching Assistant
ICT Technician
Laboratory Technician
Lunchtime Supervisor
Finance Officer
Design/ICT/Site Technician
Receptionist (job share)
Business Manager
Catering Assistant
Mount Grace Staff
The Teaching Staff
Associate Staff
3
Chair
Mr J Herbert
Vice Chair
Mr P Brown
Headteacher
Mr J Thomas
Governors
Mr D Cahill
Mr T Dunne
Mr C Harvey
Mrs C Herd
Ms S Hooton
Mr J Leigh
List of Governors
Mr R Parkin
Ms J Sansome
Clerk to Governors
Mrs P Wainwright
The school day starts at 8.30am when registration is taken.
The daily times are as follows:
Registration / Assembly
08.30 am
08.50 am
Lesson 1
Lesson 2
08.50 am
09.55 am
09.55 am
10.55 am
Break
10.55 am
11.20 am
Lesson 3
Lesson 4
11.20 am
12.20 pm
12.20 pm
13.20 pm
Lunch
13.20 pm
14.00 pm
Lesson 5
14.00 pm
15.00 pm
Pupils will be involved in full school assemblies, year assemblies and
collective acts of worship. The character of this collective worship will be
mainly Christian. Parents may wish to exercise their right to withdraw their
children. Before doing so they are asked to arrange an appointment with
the Headteacher.
The School Day
List of Governors
The hours spent on teaching each week, excluding registration, assemblies
and breaks adds up to 25 hours.
School Meals Service
At Mount Grace we are very proud of our own independent Catering
Service. Our Cook Supervisor, Mitch Bennett, and her team provide a
varied range of breaktime snacks and hot meals that are cooked on the
premises. Any small profits made are reinvested into improving the quality
of the service as well as contributing to wider school projects. The service
is committed to offering a wide range of healthy options.
Only those pupils who are actually going home for lunch are permitted to
leave the school premises at lunchtime. Parents should notify the school in
writing at the start of each year if their child is to go home for lunch and
will become their responsibility.
Applications for free meals should be made to:
Education Welfare Department
County Hall
Glenfield
Leicester
LE3 8RF
The School Day
4
Attendance
Attendance throughout the term is compulsory. The only valid reasons for absence
are pupils’ own illness.
We can no longer issue a Holiday Request Form. The
alternative is now a “Request for an Authorised Absence in Exceptional
Circumstances”. This form, available on the website, should only be completed if you
genuinely consider the absence is due to such exceptional circumstances. Once the
form is received, the Headteacher will consider the request and may invite you into
school for further discussion of the circumstances involved.
A child who has been absent from school must, on return, bring a note explaining the
absence and preferably a doctors appointment card/prescription copy; this helps to
ensure that no pupil can be absent without the knowledge of parents.
If a child is expected to be absent for more than three days, it would be helpful if
parents would let us know at once rather than waiting for the child's return to school.
Absence Line Number: 08442393577
Absence Text Message Number: 07624 806881
Our Educational Welfare Officer visits us on a regular basis to review attendance
records.
Health & Welfare
The school undertakes to follow up any unexplained absence as quickly as possible
and the co-operation of parents is greatly appreciated.
In line with Government regulations:
• Over 95% attendance
• The total number of pupils on roll for 2012/2013 was 562
• The percentage of half-day sessions missed through authorised absence was 5.3%
• The percentage of half-day sessions missed through unauthorised absence was
1%.
Visits/Admissions
Parents are welcome to view the school at any time during the
year and appointments can be made through the school office.
School Security
The Governors’ Health and Safety Committee has reviewed
safety and security issues at Mount Grace.
The Governors’ policy of vigilance and raising awareness of
everybody on the site to strangers enhances security.
Some alterations to the school building are being made to
improve security. Governors will continue to monitor the
situation.
Health & Welfare
Health & Welfare
Disabled Pupils
The suitability of the Mount Grace buildings for disabled pupils
will depend on the nature of the disability. However, alterations
to the building have been undertaken to allow access for the
disabled and to provide appropriate facilities where possible. The
school does not, however, have disabled lift access to its 2nd and
3rd floor teaching areas.
School Nurse
The School Nurse is available for consultation with parents, staff
and students. Please contact her through the school or on
(01455) 441998/441869.
Parents are asked not to send children to school who are feeling unwell in the
morning. We have few facilities to deal with sick children in the school; if a child falls
ill or has an accident while at school we make arrangements for the parents to be
informed and the child to be sent home. To do this we need a telephone number at
which parents can be reached and to be informed of any change of telephone number
or address. Mobile phone numbers have become increasingly useful to us over the
past few years. If necessary, seriously ill children will be taken to one of the local
hospitals.
Children are expected to take part in the Physical Education programme and either a
note or medical certificate should be sent prior to any withdrawal from activities.
Following Health and Safety advice, pupils are NOT allowed to wear
jewellery in PE lessons.
5
Getting to School
School buses are provided by Leicestershire County Council for children
travelling from Sapcote. Your child will receive a bus pass and details of
times and pick-up points during the summer holidays 2014. If you have
any queries please telephone the School Transport Helpline on 0116 305
8777 for general advice or advice on entitlement to transport.
Children who live in Hinckley either walk, cycle or catch a service bus to
school. We hope parents will support us in our efforts to ensure their
safety and their good behaviour.
As both cyclists and pedestrians we expect that children will know and
take notice of the Highway Code, respecting other road users.
If there is a breach of school rules we reserve the right to punish pupils.
This can take various forms: extra work, removal of privileges, detention
during or after school, relocation to different classes, internal or external
exclusion. These have been discussed with the Governing Body and have
its approval.
The actual punishment is determined by the nature of the offence, the
surrounding circumstances, the frequency of a pupil’s involvement in such
activities and, most importantly, the nature and character of the child.
Parents are always informed in advance of after school detentions and are
involved in the disciplinary process. Co-operation between home and
school is of prime importance but the Governing Body and the LA are kept
informed of all major disciplinary issues.
Rewards
The school operates numerous systems to reward pupils for a range of
achievements. Awards are presented at the end of the school year.
We would also expect cycles to be in good working order. If a bicycle is
found to be unsafe or the rider has behaved irresponsibly on the way to or
from the school, parents will be informed and requested not to allow their
child to come to school on a cycle.
In addition pupils may receive ‘Well Done’ postcards, ‘Positive Pupil’
notifications and within each department there are a wide range of
incentives.
The school positively encourages the wearing of cycling helmets. All
bicycles should be securely locked during the school day.
Code of Conduct
Health & Welfare
Health & Welfare Continued..
Health & Welfare
Discipline
We take a positive approach to discipline. Ofsted said that “Pupils feel very
PUPILS OF MOUNT GRACE HIGH SCHOOL WILL:
In matters of behaviour we encourage pupils to show thought and care for
people and property. Sensible behaviour and active participation in the
maintenance of high standards are our aims.
Be polite and well mannered
Listen carefully and do what staff ask
Arrive on time with all that is needed
Walk safely in corridors and keep to the left on stairs
Respect other people’s property
Complete classwork and homework on time
Hurt nobody by word or action
safe in school. Bullying is rare and pupils are confident that any problems
will be dealt with quickly by adults.”
“Pupils are consistently respectful towards each other and adults, and
listen carefully to the views of others. Good manners are a strong feature
of the school and pupils are increasingly encouraged and helped to
manage their own behaviour.” (Ofsted 2013)
Clearly we have rules but these are kept to a minimum and are based on
common sense. We expect pupils to be prompt, neat in appearance and
polite in speech, to move sensibly and with purpose in school and to bring
nothing into school that could be harmful to themselves or others.
There is a Code of Conduct (see opposite) which children have helped to
formulate. This is updated annually and is upheld by everyone in the
building. Additionally, the school has a Bullying Policy (see next page). We
do not experience many instances of bullying but it is important that
parents, staff and children know what to do should an incident occur.
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Bullying Policy
We believe that all members of Mount Grace High School should be able to
participate in school activities without fear or constant anxiety.
Safe-guarding/Child Protection Policy (July 2013)
Mount Grace High School fully recognises the contribution it can make to
protect children and support pupils in school. The School’s policy aims to
safeguard and promote pupil welfare, safety and health by fostering an
honest, open, caring and supportive climate.
It is our agreed policy that no-one within the school should tolerate
bullying or bullies. Bullying is defined as one or more people deliberately
causing suffering to another by action, word or threat.
Responses of people involved in an act of Bullying:
a)
If you have been bullied:
1 Don't feel guilty - it is not your fault.
2 Tell a friend you trust about the incident.
3 Tell a teacher or another adult.
b)
If you are a friend:
1 Listen carefully and sympathetically to what you are being told.
2 Treat the incident seriously.
3 Encourage your friend to tell an adult.
Health & Welfare
c)
If you are an adult:
1
2
3
4
5
Listen carefully and sympathetically to what you are being told.
Treat the incident seriously.
Deal with the matter or contact the appropriate member of staff.
Investigate thoroughly - collect written evidence.
Decide on the most appropriate form of action. This may include:
(i) Instigating an appropriate punishment.
(ii) Contacting parents of Bully and Bullied Person.
(iii) Putting things right between Bully and Bullied Person
(apologies, replacing or mending broken or torn items and/or
making up for the hurt caused)
(iv) Recommending to the Headteacher that external agencies be
contacted.
In cases of repeated or constant acts of bullying, parents will be invited
into school to discuss their son/daughter's future behaviour and be made
aware of any further action the school might take (Behaviour Contracts,
Temporary
Suspension,
Governors'
Disciplinary
Sub-Committee,
Permanent Exclusion).
Safety In School
To ensure the safety of your child while at school, please note the
following:
PE - Unsuitable clothing and/or footwear can be hazardous.
Design - Goggles/Aprons are provided when required.
Science - Children must wear goggles supplied by the school when
instructed to do so by teachers.
In both Design and Science it is essential that long hair is tied back and
loose or trailing clothing secured.
NB: In the interests of the health and safety of all who work or visit the
school, Mount Grace has a Safety Policy which encompasses all the
requirements of recent legislation. Copies of the Policy are obtainable from
the school office.
Uniform & Equipment
Health & Welfare Continued..
Equipment
At Mount Grace your child will be supported with a wide range of books
and equipment. We hope children will take full advantage of the facilities
and look after them. If they are lost or damaged, pupils will be asked to
pay the cost of replacement.
To help them in their work the school expects children to have basic
equipment of their own eg a pen, pencil, ruler and coloured pencils.
The school provides all children with a school planner. They are expected
to have this with them at all times. Replacement planners will be charged
for.
Uniform & Equipment
7
Valuables
All articles of clothing and other personal belongings must be clearly
marked with the child's name. Children should not bring valuables or wear
jewellery to school, other than ear studs or watches. If they have to bring
money to school it should be paid in promptly or given to a member of the
office staff for safe-keeping. Parents should note that the school cannot
accept liability for the loss or damage of personal property of any kind as
the school disclaims all liability for any such loss howsoever caused on the
premises.
SCHOOL UNIFORM
Mobile Phones
Uniform & Equipment
Whilst mobile phones are allowed into school, they are not to be used at
all between 8.20am and 3.00pm and are to be kept out of view and
switched off. Pupils who wish to make urgent calls are able to use the
school office phone. Any pupils who are unable to follow this code
will have their phone stored in the school office. Office staff will
inform parents who will be asked to collect the phone.
Uniform
The school policy supported by the governors and parents is that full
school uniform is worn.
It is helpful in generating corporate responsibilities and is a relatively
inexpensive and practical outfit. Sending your child to school in uniform
sets a standard in appearance of which both parents and the school can
be proud.
Anyone whose personal circumstances make the purchase of uniform
difficult should contact the school.
Please note that clothing with a logo other than the school badge is not
acceptable.
Mount Grace High School Academy Trust uniform
requirements 2014/15 are as follows:
Plain black trousers or skirt
Not acceptable for girls: leggings or very short tight skirts
White school polo shirt with school badge
Not acceptable: white polo shirt without school badge
Navy sweatshirt with school badge
Not acceptable: navy sweatshirt without school badge
Uniform & Equipment
Uniform & Equipment Continued..
Sturdy plain black footwear
Not acceptable: any coloured markings (including coloured
laces), lightweight slipper shoes
In PE lessons between October & March, pupils are permitted to
wear plain black tracksuit bottoms and sweatshirts. Those pupils
wishing to purchase specific Mount Grace training tops may do so
from the school itself.
Supplier of Mount Grace’s Uniform
J & R Swift Ltd, Parsons Lane, Hinckley
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Girls’ PE Kit
White with red trim School Polo Shirt (from Swifts)
Black Skorts (Skirt with Shorts)
Black/Red Reversible Games Shirt (from Swifts)
Black Hockey Socks
Trainers with non-marking soles
Hockey or Soccer Boots
Shin Pads
Uniform & Equipment
Black Tracksuit (Optional)
Boys’ PE Kit
White with red trim School Polo Shirt (from Swifts)
Black Shorts (Not Cycling Shorts)
Black Football Socks
Activities & Finance
In addition to a full daily programme of lessons pupils are encouraged to
participate in activities organised by teaching staff during the lunchtime
and after school.
We have strong sporting, dramatic and musical traditions. There are teams
for football, rugby, basketball, hockey, netball, cricket, athletics and
swimming. Over the past three years we have won Area and County
trophies galore in rugby, hockey, netball, soccer and athletics.
The music, dance and drama groups perform regularly. Past successes
have included ‘Rocky Monster Show’ ‘Mount Grace has got Talent’,
‘Vitalize’ (singing group) and ‘We will Rock You’.
The Library and computer network are available at lunchtime.
We offer a wide range of visits throughout the year as follows:
Year 7
Tamworth Castle, Twycross Zoo, Globe Theatre, Harry Potter Studio Tour,
Medieval Day and Places of Worship.
Year 8
Curve Theatre, French Residential , Civil War Day and Places of Worship.
Year 9
Holocaust Centre, Leicester University (Science), Drayton Manor, Leavers’
Ball, The Towers Outdoor Pursuits Centre, Buddhist Meditation Centre
Black/Red Reversible Games Shirt (from Swifts)
A Ski Trip to France, Multi Faith Roadshow, Theme Days, Sherwood Pines
Mountain Biking and various Drama / Music Productions also take place.
Shin pads
Charging Policy
Rugby / Soccer Boots
The Governors support the policy that, within the resources available,
education should be free and to that end will use available funds to the
full, particularly to support the disadvantaged.
Trainers or Plimsolls with non-marking soles
Black Tracksuit (Optional)
NB: Shin Pads are necessary for both Football & Hockey
Supplier of Mount Grace’s Uniform
Activities & Finance
Uniform & Equipment Continued..
We hope that parents will continue to support the work of the school
where funds are not readily available from normal channels, for example,
for some extra curricular activities, as without parents' support activities
will not take place.
Families who are in receipt of certain benefits should contact the school
for information about the further support that is available to them.
J & R Swift Ltd, Parsons Lane, Hinckley
9
The following descriptions are accurate at the moment and include the
developments required by the GCSE examinations and the National
Curriculum.
Mathematics is taught in sets from Year 7, whilst Science, English and
French sets are established from Year 8 onwards. Other subjects are
taught in mixed ability classes in Years 7 and 8 whilst in Year 9 pupils
are set by ability in the vast majority of their lessons.
“In most lessons relationships are excellent. Activities are well planned
and proceed at a good pace. Pupils make strong gains in skills,
knowledge and understanding in all subjects. Work in books is detailed
and thorough… The subject knowledge of teachers is notably strong.”
Ofsted 2013
The normal timetable is sometimes changed to offer additional curricular
opportunities, e.g. fieldwork, educational visits, visitors to the school,
theme days or weeks, school productions and workshops with other
schools.
The school is happy to answer individual questions at any time and
positively welcomes parental participation in the progress of each child.
Health, Careers and Relationship Issues
Good health is actively promoted in all years with modules based around
eating well, looking after your body and general wellbeing. Pupils will be
encouraged to recognise and discuss the implications of current social
concerns including sex and drugs education. The areas covered in sex
education in Year 9 are relationships, contraception, STDs and AIDS. This
work promotes lasting, loving relationships and is underpinned by the
following policy, ratified by the Governors:
The School Curriculum
The school curriculum is based, for all years, on a 25 period week
timetable. Students study the following subjects:
Select a subject from the table below to find out more..
Subject
Number of Periods
% Curriculum Time
English
3
12%
Maths
3
12%
Science
3
12%
Art
1
4%
Design Technology
2
8%
French
2
8%
Geography
2
8%
History
2
8%
ICT
1
4%
Music
1
4%
Physical Education
2
8%
Religious Education
1
4%
Life Skills
2
8%
The Governors believe that sex education is an important aspect of a
child’s development. At this school sex education is introduced not
merely from a biological viewpoint but also within a moral framework.
Relations between the sexes are shown with full regard to the moral
and legal aspects of decision-making. It is not taught in isolation but
within the framework of a personal development programme dealing
with many aspects of growing up. Parents wishing to know more about
this aspect of their child’s education should contact the school for
further information.
The School Curriculum
The School Curriculum
Community
Life Skills modules also focus on the importance of “Community” at a
range of levels:
• Electing a School Council to help bring about changes at Mount Grace
• Helping to understand the workings of our local Hinckley communities
• Increasing awareness and understanding of other cultures and
communities
• Increasing awareness of global economic and environmental issues
Skip Curriculum Pages
10
The School Curriculum
The School Curriculum - English
The Department aims:
• To develop the spoken and written language capabilities of all pupils
• To encourage the evaluation and appreciation of language in the environment and literature
• To educate the imagination through ideas expressed in literature, discussion and written work
• To enable pupils to cope effectively with the requirements of the National Curriculum and GCSE
These aims are achieved through the following National Curriculum Attainment Targets:
Speaking and Listening
a) Learning to share and explore ideas - to talk and listen to discussion about their own and others' work
The School Curriculum
b) Formal discussion - informed talks, debates, etc
Reading
a) Individual / group reading for pleasure
b) Group / individual / class reading for evaluation & appreciation of content & language used to express it
c) Study skills to enable children to access and manipulate information
Writing - including spelling, handwriting and presentation
a) In various ways - expressing, creating, reporting, summarising, evaluating, persuading, etc
b) With sense of "audience" - the teacher, other pupils, friends, oneself, etc
c) With accuracy - punctuation, structure, word usage, etc
The department uses a policy of rough drafting written work so that children appreciate the need to experiment
with ideas and structures. Classwork is compiled, over the year, in an A4 sized work book. Core tasks are
produced on paper, moderated and levelled and kept in an on-going portfolio of work. Targets for improvement
stem from these tasks. A regular weekly homework focuses upon spelling and vocabulary.
Curriculum Index
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11
The School Curriculum
The School Curriculum - Maths
The aims of the Mathematics Department are that all children should:
• Enjoy Mathematics
• Achieve success, commensurate with their ability
• Extend their knowledge through exploration
• Understand the application of Mathematics in other subject areas
The National Curriculum forms the basis of our work but each child is provided with materials designed
to cater for their own learning needs and mathematical ability.
The School Curriculum
Our core text books are National Framework Mathematics and Maths Frameworking but we supplement these
with appropriate sections from National Curriculum Mathematics, Maths in Action, Letts Key Stage 3 Maths and
activity practice.
Our attention to children as individuals ensures that those of very high ability and those who may need extra
help are engaged in work which is of an appropriate level, reinforcing, extending and stretching their
mathematical capabilities to the utmost.
The children are encouraged to practise and apply skills by carrying out investigations and problem-solving
exercises based on their real experience of mathematics. Pupils are continually encouraged to make selfassessments of their own progress as part of the learning process.
On completion of units of work the children are tested. From the results of these tests, together with their
written work, oral work and aural tests, a profile of achievement is completed.
Curriculum Index
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12
The School Curriculum
The School Curriculum - Science
The Science Department offers all pupils the opportunity to develop an intensive knowledge
and understanding of the many and varied topics that are found under the umbrella of Science.
Many new and exciting initiatives will be introduced this year, as a result of our newly-acquired
Specialist Science Status, such as working with Year 6 pupils in primary schools.
We are adapting the QCA Schemes of Work to meet the challenges of the new curriculum –
in particular the aspects of ‘How Science Works’.
Within the new curriculum we are introducing ‘level-assessed tasks’ throughout Years 7, 8 and 9 which enables
pupils to work out which level they are working at and what steps they can take to reach the next level. End of
topic tests also contribute to the overall level that pupils achieve.
We have a big emphasis on practical work where pupils usually work in pairs.
The School Curriculum
As pupils advance to Year 8 they are put into sets based on their overall performance in Year 7. In this year,
and in Year 9, each group is taught the three Science disciplines of Biology, Chemistry and Physics one lesson
per week by specialist teachers.
The course aims to show pupils what an important part Science has to play in their lives, and we hope to open
their eyes to its 'everyday' applications. This is supported by visits to current exhibitions and places of scientific
interest. After undertaking this Science scheme, pupils have an excellent basis on which to build as they
continue their Science studies at GCSE level at the Upper School.
Curriculum Index
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13
The School Curriculum
The School Curriculum - Art
Art and Design aims to stimulate creativity and imagination. We encourage our pupils to
explore visual, sensory and tactile experiences, developing their knowledge and understanding
of contemporary art and also from different times and cultures.
Our pupils use colour, form, texture, pattern and a range of materials and processes to
communicate what they see, feel and think.
Through art, craft and design activities, our pupils learn to make informed judgements and aesthetic and
practical decisions. They explore ideas and meanings in the work of artists, craftspeople and designers.
Throughout the Key Stage 3 experience, pupils are encouraged to use sketchbooks and are taught to use a
broad range of media to create two and three dimensional work.
Year 7
The emphasis is on improving and developing observation and drawing skills using a range of materials. Pupils
produce work that is two and three dimensional.
The School Curriculum
Year 8
Pupils explore the work of artists and craftspeople, developing their knowledge of colour, texture, shape and
form. They are able to construct three dimensional forms using traditional and contemporary techniques and
are encouraged to consider the aesthetics of their finished work. They learn how to manipulate images through
the use of ICT, producing stimulating and expressive pieces of art. Perspective drawing enables pupils to
develop further their observational skills.
Year 9
Year 9 pupils create both two and three dimensional pieces of work, researching a variety of artists and art
movements. They experiment using a range of techniques, exploring surface and repeat patterns, increasing
their knowledge of applied decoration. They are taught the skills to produce ceramic forms and through
experimentation they are able to gain a sound knowledge of decorative and embellishment processes, which will
enhance their work. They are encouraged to work independently, exploring their own ideas.
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The School Curriculum
The School Curriculum - Design Technology
Design and Technology makes a unique contribution to the Mount Grace curriculum by helping
pupils prepare to cope with rapidly changing technology.
This is achieved by:
1) Teaching creative thinking skills and giving pupils opportunities to apply them to real situations.
2) Teaching them to actively look for needs, wants and opportunities and respond to them, as creative problem
solvers, with ideas, products and systems.
3) Giving them the chance to see how practising designers work and how products evolve.
4) Teaching the balance and compromise that takes place between appearance, function, social and
environmental impacts and industrial practice when things are designed and made.
5) Teaching about the impact of historical changes in technology and how past technology still influences our
lives today.
The School Curriculum
6) Giving pupils access to high tech equipment to enable them to produce high quality products.
7) The importance of the phrase WHAT IF?
Pupils are given the opportunity to use a balance of old and new technology to create increasingly sophisticated,
high quality products, combining materials and outcomes across different specialist areas.
Pupils should enjoy the experience as they make discoveries about what has gone before and about what is now
open to them.
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The School Curriculum
The School Curriculum - French
The Department aims:
• To encourage positive attitudes towards speakers of foreign languages and a sympathetic
approach towards other cultures and civilisations as well as towards foreign language learning
in general.
• To build a sound foundation for those who will take examinations at 16 and beyond.
As well as the use of a text book, pupils will have the opportunity of using interactive material containing a
variety of learning activities. Listening, speaking, reading and writing, games, songs and other ICT tasks will
soon be available on the school network. Pupils will also have the opportunity of doing assessments interactively
through the network.
Furthermore, we are considering the possibility of pupils accessing this material by internet at home.
The School Curriculum
Pupils will be given the opportunity of purchasing an individual workbook and CD with audio material for them to
work through at home at their own pace and to encourage parents to join pupils in the fun of learning French.
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The School Curriculum
The School Curriculum - Geography
The Geography Department aims to provide a course that is relevant, varied and interesting.
The content of the course is governed by the National Curriculum.
The children learn a wide range of skills and use a variety of resources throughout their time at
Mount Grace.
Year 7
In Year 7 pupils experience an intensive course in map interpretation using different scales. The local region
and, more particularly, the urban area of Hinckley are investigated in detail and are compared with settlements
and their patterns elsewhere in Britain. Year 7 concludes with a scientific study of weather recording and
interpretation, followed by a study of the continent of Asia.
Year 8
The School Curriculum
In Year 8 the emphasis shifts initially to the global scale. Pupils are taught major elements of natural regions and
are introduced to the concept of ecosystems. Many themes concerning the European Union and Great Britain are
also investigated during this year. Furthermore, there is a strong element of Environmental Geography with
respect to National Parks and tourism in areas of considerable ecological importance (eg Skiing in the Alps).
Year 9
Year 9 pupils investigate some of the main elements of physical geography including rock types, volcanoes,
earthquakes, river patterns and their characteristics. Later, the main types of industry are studied in detail by
citing specific examples. Economically developing countries and globalisation are two further themes covered in
this year.
Pupils are provided with the opportunity to create and interrogate computer databases and spreadsheets as well
as using ICT to present and research information on different parts of the world.
A unit on skills teaches pupils various cross-curricular skills, which will be particularly useful to pupils opting to
follow Geography at GCSE in Year 10 and 11.
Colleagues from JCC offer GCSE taster classes to all Year 9 pupils.
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The School Curriculum
The School Curriculum - History
Our History course covers some of the key people and events from the last 1000 years.
In Year 7 pupils will gain key skills for learning about History. They will undertake an in-depth
study of the medieval period, including the Norman invasion, knights and castles, a peasant’s
life and the importance of the church. We also cover some aspects of local history, including
the Battle of Bosworth.
In Year 8, we start by exploring Henry VIII, looking beyond his wives to the enormous changes he made in
England. We cover other famous people including Elizabeth I, Charles I and Oliver Cromwell. We finish the year
by exploring Britain’s Industrial Revolution.
Year 9 includes a study of slavery and the Black Peoples of the Americas, both world wars and women’s history.
We also examine the Holocaust and consider how the dropping of the atom bomb has changed world politics.
During their 3 years with us, we hope to develop pupils’ understanding of;
The School Curriculum
•
•
•
•
cause and effect
diversity
historical significance
bias and reliability of source material
We do this using a variety of teaching methods that encourage pupils to think for themselves. We aim to give
them the confidence to construct and communicate their ideas in a range of ways including extended writing
tasks, presentations, role plays and poster activities.
We hope the course will help pupils to understand different views of the past, and be able to empathise with
people whose lives were very different to their own.
We organise several trips each year, including a castle tour and a visit to Beth Shalom Holocaust centre. We also
organise a series of History theme days, which include Medieval, Civil War and World War 1 events, including a
Tea Dance!
History is taught twice a week in mixed ability groups in Years 7 and 8. In Year 9 pupils are streamed. We hope
there is something for everyone, be it bartering pigs and chickens to survive a medieval winter, or meeting a
survivor of the Holocaust.
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The School Curriculum
The School Curriculum - ICT
The ICT National Strategy is taught to Year 7, 8 and 9 pupils for one lesson per week.
Throughout the year pupils will be given opportunities to develop an independent approach
to learning especially via the proactive use of the school Virtual Learning Environment (VLE).
The VLE empowers learners by giving them more choices, making learning and teaching resources
more accessible in and out of school without the limitations of time and space. Pupils’ understanding
and application of various software titles such as Microsoft PowerPoint, Excel, Publisher and Word is
developed. They are encouraged to consider the limitations and capabilities of ICT by evaluating the impact of
ICT in society. Raising pupils’ awareness of the dangers of online communication is also a key part of the ICT
programme to help them to be safe, recognise danger and be responsible online.
The School Curriculum
ICT Suites are the key resources and platform for supporting the discrete ICT curriculum and ICT across the
curriculum. There are three 30 machine computer suites, a half network in Music and laptops within departments
along with computers within the Access Room and Library. The school actively promotes the use of ICT across
all subjects. There is internet access in all classrooms via LAN (Local Area Network) or wireless.
There is a lunchtime ICT club (3T) on Wednesdays and Fridays that supports students to develop their ICT skills
in specific areas of their choice: web design, cartoon animation, computer hardware, computer graphics, movie
maker, paint, Microsoft package etc. The ICT club encourages students to explore, share their talents and
support each other. Pupils are also encouraged to use the Science ICT suite and Access room at lunchtimes for
research and homework.
The ICT and English departments run a MGHS Media Club. The aim of the club is to create a medium for young
peoples’ voices to comment on past and current issues in Hinckley, UK, EU and the world from mainstream and
local news media. Students also report day to day events at MGHS such as school plays, raising money for
charity, sports, learning and teaching etc.
Through the MGHS Media Club, young people have the opportunity to use and develop their multimedia talents
in such areas as reporting, presenting, editing, graphics design, filming (camera person) and script writing.
The East Midlands Broadband Consortium (EMBC) is the broadband internet provider for the Mount Grace High
School network. Provision is carefully monitored and there are regular spot checks of individual pupils’ use of the
facilities. All pupils are required to sign our agreement policies and breaches of these are taken seriously.
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The School Curriculum
The School Curriculum - Music
Music at Mount Grace introduces and helps our students learn about music from
different times, places and cultures through practical involvement. Listening,
performing and composing encourages pupils to learn and develop their musical abilities,
using a wide variety of traditional and modern approaches.
Opportunities to play and compose music using electronic keyboards, guitars, percussion and
singing in addition to using our newly installed computer facilities and specialist music software will
enable all students to enjoy creating new and original music fit for the 21st century and beyond! Music
facilities are available every day at lunchtimes, allowing students the opportunities to expand their experience,
practise or to just enjoy playing with music as a creative art.
Instrumental lessons are provided by visiting professionals – you will receive a letter about these before the end
of the summer term.
Extra-curricular activities, open to all, include various groups and happen throughout the week during lunchtimes
including Vitalize, the school choir and various opportunities to perform.
The School Curriculum
Please don't hesitate to contact Mr Collins should you have any queries, require advice on learning an instrument
or would like to come and see what a 21st century music department looks like!
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The School Curriculum
The School Curriculum - Physical Education
The PE Department at Mount Grace is committed to a challenging, varied curriculum that develops
children of all abilities to their full potential. It is the policy of the department to provide extracurricular clubs and teams to promote the development of excellence in a variety of major team
games, whilst still offering a "sport for all" approach via equality of opportunity. Mount Grace
completed over 800 competitive fixtures in the academic year 2009/10
The PE department offers a wide range of indoor and outdoor activities using facilities at school, on playing fields
adjacent to John Cleveland College and Hinckley Leisure Centre.
The focus during lessons is on delivering the National Curriculum key processes through a range of activities
including:
The School Curriculum
•Outwitting opponents in invasion games.
•Accurate replication in gymnastics.
•Exploring & communicating ideas through dance.
•Performing at maximum levels in athletics.
•Identifying and solving problems through striking & fielding activities.
•Exercising safely & effectively in Health Related Fitness.
•Coach Education.
To supplement the PE programme a wide variety of extra-curricular activities are offered including intra & interschool fixtures and Area/County competitions, as well as other outdoor pursuits. The past few years has seen
Mount Grace teams achieve unprecedented success in a wide range of sports including Football, Rugby,
Basketball, Hockey, Netball, Cricket and Athletics. Mount Grace actively encourages pupils to join local sports
clubs and have close links with several local clubs.
The Mount Grace PE curriculum in the academic year 2009/10 yielded fantastic Key Stage 3 results with 100%
Level 5s and 52% Level 6s.
Mount Grace also has a well developed Gifted & Talented programme that has continually produced Level 7 and
exceptional performance grades.
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The School Curriculum
The School Curriculum - Religious Education
The teaching of Religious Education at Mount Grace follows the guidance of the LA’s Agreed
Syllabus, and the QCA's non-statutory guidance for RE.
The aim of Religious Education is to encourage and to help all pupils to explore and express their
own response to the spiritual and religious approaches to life by enabling them:
• To acquire a basic knowledge and understanding of the different religious beliefs and practices to understand
and respect how religious beliefs and values affect ways of living.
• To develop a reflective and caring approach to life.
• To gain an awareness of the spiritual dimension of life.
The School Curriculum
This is done by studying a variety of topics such as; ‘Who am I’, ‘Jesus - Man or God’, ’Belonging’, ‘The
environment’, ‘A Code by which to live, moving on up or going round in circles’, ‘Prejudice and discrimination’,
‘Issues of Life and Death’, ‘Ideas about God’, The principal religion studied is Christianity but other major
religions are also studied to reflect the multi-cultural nature of our country.
Through visits to different places of worship, use of artefacts and by meeting believers of different faiths, the
pupils' experience and understanding will be broadened.
Pupils receive one lesson per week and are taught in learning groups. The work is differentiated to cater for all
ability levels.
Parents may wish to express their right to withdraw their child from Religious Education for religious reasons.
Before doing so, they are asked to arrange an appointment with the Headteacher or speak to the Head of RE to
discuss any concerns over the RE curriculum.
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The School Curriculum
The School Curriculum - Life Skills
The Life Skills curriculum aims to bring together a number of areas which are not "traditional"
subjects in themselves but have a major impact on all areas of learning.
Life Skills focuses on individual pupil progress and target setting, as well as introducing pupils
to a very wide range of topics.
The School Curriculum
By the end of Year 9 they will have undertaken modules in the following:
•Target Setting
•Career Planning
• 'Amazing Brain'
•Global Environment
•Government & Democracy
•Healthy Lifestyles
•Finance & Budgeting
•Respect
•Law & Order
•Applied Literacy
•Enterprise
•Relationships
•Dealing with Drugs
•Survival
•Being a Young Leader
Life Skills modules are designed to help pupils develop self-confidence, extend their range of thinking about the
opportunities in life and work generally, and prepare them to make informed decisions.
Many of the modules relate to the Citizenship programme of study and pupils are given the opportunity to
discuss a range of issues which promote spiritual, moral, social and cultural development. It is our hope that
pupils are given the knowledge, skills and understanding to play an effective role in society at local, national and
international levels. We feel that our Life Skills programme helps pupils to become informed, thoughtful and
responsible citizens who are aware of their duties and rights.
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Any pupil may have a specific need at some point in their education career.
At Mount Grace we aim to ensure full entitlement and access for SEN pupils
to a broad, balanced and relevant curriculum. This is achieved by:
• Educating pupils with SEN alongside their peers within the normal
curriculum.
• Stimulating their interests and enjoyment in their own education.
• Enabling them to become familiar with a body of skills, principles and
vocabulary to help them fulfil their potential.
• Involving parents and pupils in the identification of SEN.
Over the last few years staff have spent a great deal of time discussing our
assessment and reporting methods. Assessments are made in line with
National Curriculum requirements and much effort is made to ensure that
we are providing accurate information for pupils and parents.
• Meeting their needs by offering continual and appropriate forms of
educational provision by the most efficient use of all available resources.
Pupils are regularly assessed, both through formalised tests and informal
questioning and observation.
• Enlisting the aid of outside agencies whenever necessary.
In all subject areas pupils are working towards the National Curriculum
statements. These will be assessed by teachers at the end of the Key
Stage, in Year 9.
• Identifying and assessing pupils with SEN as early and thoroughly as is
possible and necessary.
Special Educational Needs
Assessment & Reporting System
• Ensuring that subject teachers are fully informed as to the SEN of any of
their pupils.
• Additional classes for select pupils in literacy and numeracy.
Support is also available for pupils whose continual behaviour gives cause
for concern. The Behaviour Support Team may arrange in-class support,
mentoring, anger management groups or advice from outside agencies.
Pupils will bring reports home once per term so that, as parents, you can
monitor current levels of achievement. There will also be a formal
consultation evening each year. Year 8 and 9 pupils will be set target
levels to achieve based on prior achievement. Where concern is expressed
by individual subject teachers in a termly report, an appointment will be
made for you to meet with us to discuss your child’s progress.
Assessments & Reports
Special Educational Needs
Homework
Shortly after the start of the term your child will be given a Personal
Planner. This contains information regarding Mount Grace as well as pages
for recording homework, memos and achievements. Each subject area will
provide pupils with details of homework expectations. We request your cooperation in ensuring that homework is done.
Assessments & Reports
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Results of National Curriculum Assessments at the end of Key Stage 3
Summary of National Curriculum Assessment Results of pupils in the School (2013) and Nationally (2011, last published data) at the end of
Key Stage 3.
Teacher Assessments : Percentage at each level
English
Assessments & Reports
Abs
<3
3
4
5
6
7
8
5+
6+
7+
0
0
0
0
7
31
51
10
1
93
62
11
82
47
12
93
75
40
81
59
29
97
75
38
83
51
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National
School
Maths
0
0
0
0
7
19
34
29
11
National
Science
Key:
School
Dis
School
0
0
0
0
3
22
37
National
Dis - Disapplied under sections 92/93 of the 2002 Education Act
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3
Abs - Absent
What do the results mean?
Assessments & Reports
Assessments & Reports Continued..
By the age of 11+ most pupils should have reached level 4 and at the age of 14, levels 5 or 6. Only the most exceptional child would reach
level 7 in English and level 8 in Maths and Science
The level your child reaches may give you a good idea of how he or she is measuring up to the National targets. It may also tell you how
your child is doing compared to other children of the same age.
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Autumn Term
School Opens
Thursday 28th August 2014
Mid Term Break
Monday 20th - Friday 24th October 2014
School Closes
Friday 19th December 2014
Calendar Dates
Calendar Dates 2014-2015
Calendar Dates
Spring Term
School Opens
Tuesday 6th January 2015
Mid Term Break
Monday 16th - Friday 20th February 2015
School Closes
Friday 27th March 2015
Summer Term
School Opens
Monday 13th April 2015
May Day
Monday 4th May 2015
Mid Term Break
Monday 25th May - Friday 29th May 2015
School Closes
Friday 10th July 2015
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Further Information
Mount Grace High School Policy documents
•Accessibility
•Gifted and Talented
•Anti Bullying
•Drugs Policy
•Attendance Management
•Homework Policy
•Charging Policy
•ICT Acceptable Usage Policy
•Child Protection
•Looked after Children
•Collective Worship
•Rewards at Mount Grace
•Complaints Policy
•Safeguarding and Child
Protection
Further Information
School Policies
•Curriculum Policy
•Disability Equality
•Safeguarding Children in a
Digital World
•Drug Education Policy
•SEN Code of Practice
•Gender Equality Policy
•Sex and Relationships Policy
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The information in this presentation was correct at time of publication.
It was prepared for the academic year 2014-2015.
Further Information
It is hoped that no fundamental changes will take place either prior to or
during this academic year but these cannot be predicted.
Further Information
Further Information
The Open Evening for Year 6 Parents and Children is on
Monday 7th October 2013
6.30 pm – 9.00 pm
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