Arthur Mellows Village College An Academy

Transcription

1 Arthur Mellows Village College An Academy Prospectus Delivering learning for life within an aspirational culture Graded Outstanding consecutively by Ofsted November 2009 and December 2014

2 Our College Message from Head of College 3 Welcome 4 Our Objectives and Values 5 Towards the Future 6 The Home-College Partnership 6 What do we expect of our students? 6 What do we expect of ourselves? 6 Learning Facilities 6 Technology Status 7 Our Learning Learning at Arthur Mellows 8 The National Curriculum 9 Our Curriculum 9 Key Stage 3 / Key Stage 4 9 Post Our Courses Computing 12 Design & Technology 13 English 14 Expressive Arts 15 Humanities 16 Mathematics 17 Modern Foreign Languages 18 Physical Education 19 Religious Education 20 Science 21 Our Support Special Educational Needs 23 Gifted and Talented Provision 23 Homework 24 The Future Education and Careers Guidance 24 Learning Outside the Classroom 25 College Concerts and Productions 25 Music beyond the Curriculum 26 Sport 26 Our Care The Pastoral Team 28 The Form Tutor 28 The Pastoral Support Team 28 Student Voice 28 Rewards 28 Against Bullying 29 Personal Development 29 Sex and Drugs Education 30 Child Protection 30 Discipline 30 A Healthy, Safe Environment 30 School Meals 30 Other Information Dress Code 32 Mobile Phones 32 Collective Assembly 32 Transport 32 Student Arrival On Site 32 Holiday Absence 32 Arthur Mellows Village College Prospectus 2016/2017 2

3 Message from the HEAD OF COLLEGE I am delighted that you are considering Arthur Mellows Village College for your child s secondary education. We pride ourselves on being a high performing comprehensive school, with Specialist Status in Technology: a school which also establishes a caring, secure and stimulating Community College ethos that meets the needs of children. In September 2010 the College became one of the new Academy schools as a result of a direct invitation from the Department for Education due to our Outstanding Ofsted status. This Academy status provides greater freedom to help the school innovate and enhance the performance of the young people in our care. Our priority is to develop the full potential of all our students. We pursue high standards and foster a spirit of critical inquiry: both essential for providing students access to the knowledge, skills and values they need in order for them to take their place successfully in society. We offer excellent educational opportunities through the high quality of our teachers, our curriculum and our resources. Our last Ofsted inspection recognised the College as Outstanding for the second time; the highest accolade that can be achieved. Key points from this inspection are as follows: Students behaviour is excellent Excellent relationships with their teachers mean the atmosphere within lessons is purposeful and positive The school s work to keep students safe and secure is outstanding Constant improvement provides students with outstanding opportunities to learn Students are unreservedly proud of their school One student explained Aiming high and trying your best is what this school is about Determination to succeed is widespread It is important to us in all of this, to develop students sense of self-discipline and responsibility and to encourage their tolerance, understanding of and respect for others. The College also places special value on developing a partnership with parents which will support students in gaining the best possible education. The purpose of this prospectus is to begin a process that will enable you to make an informed judgement with regard to the suitability of this College to meet the needs of your child. Having read the information, I hope you will come and reflect on the excellent range of activities and diverse nature of the work that takes place at Arthur Mellows Village College. We will be more than happy to discuss any aspects of College life with you. MIKE SANDEMAN Head of College Arthur Mellows Village College Prospectus 2016/2017 3

4 Welcome to ARTHUR MELLOWS VILLAGE COLLEGE Students work hard in lessons and make rapid progress across many subjects (Ofsted 2014) Students respond with enthusiasm to activities that engage and challenge them (Ofsted 2014) Arthur Mellows Village College Prospectus 2016/2017 4

5 Our COLLEGE Our Mission Delivering learning for life within an aspirational culture. Our Objectives To be the college of choice by promoting and providing access to relevant, broad, balanced and quality learning. To be a safe, effective and friendly environment. To value, encourage and help develop the potential of all within our community. To strive to improve our performance and measure achievement against challenging standards. To recognise and celebrate achievement. Our Values We know that our students will be learning in an encouraging, friendly and supportive environment which places them at the heart of the College community. We have high expectations, therefore, of staff and parents as the adults who are most immediately involved in the students College experience. Students will be treated with respect and required to treat others with respect too. They will be given equal opportunities as well as the chance to develop any special talent they have. They will grow as people who can express their ideas and observations clearly and with confidence. They will learn to be increasingly self-disciplined and to take initiative in their learning. They will be encouraged to think in terms of their own success - at Arthur Mellows and into the future. They will be asked to think of themselves as citizens of the wider local, national and global communities and to show understanding and responsibility in these contexts. Through the curriculum we offer, we aim for students to achieve the following: Lively, enquiring minds with the ability to reason thoughtfully, to question carefully and to think creatively The ability to apply thinking with concentration and over a sustained period of time The knowledge, understanding, skills and values they will need for adult life and for further education and employment in a fast-changing world An understanding and respect for the religious and moral beliefs of others and for different cultural ways of life An understanding that everyone, whatever their race, background, sex, status or disability, has a right to equal opportunities A recognition of the responsibility for their own health, fitness and well-being Arthur Mellows Village College Prospectus 2016/2017 5

6 Our COLLEGE Towards The Future What does education bring for the first part of the 21st Century? There is no doubt that, more and more, schools will be asked to provide the teaching and resources that will help students gain both the expertise they need in subject areas of the curriculum and the independent learning skills they will require for the world of work. The worlds of technology, science and economics are changing so quickly that students will increasingly need transferable skills which they can apply flexibly within the working community in which they place themselves. At Arthur Mellows, we are involved in continuous planning to ensure that our students will have the abilities and skills to succeed now and in their own futures. The resources, facilities and buildings we provide; the technology we use in the classrooms; the curriculum we create; and the knowledge and expertise we, as educators, continue to develop will offer the best possible opportunities for our students. The Home-College Partnership A positive three-way relationship between staff, students and parents is probably the most important element we can hope to foster in support of our students. We know that those whose parents take an interest in their College years are among our most successful students and that regular communication between home and College is especially helpful in this. Most important here is: For us to keep parents up-to-date with reports on their child s progress For us to communicate quickly with home if there is a problem with a student s health, welfare, behaviour or work For us to let parents know about the ways the College works - and to let them know when changes occur For parents to let us know if their child is in need of particular support, whether short or long term For parents to help their child be organised and prepared for the College day - and to provide a suitable place for their child to do homework For parents to share, where possible, in the positive, achievement ethos of the College What Do We Expect Of Students? We expect our students to embrace the values of Arthur Mellows and to co-operate with the aims, purposes and procedures of the College We expect them to consider others as well as themselves We expect them to be properly equipped and organised, and to have a positive attitude to learning, so that they are able to work hard and succeed What Do We Expect Of Ourselves? We expect to do everything possible which will enable our students to achieve a high standard of learning and achievement We expect to provide the safe, nurturing and challenging environment for which the College is known We expect to provide well qualified staff and excellent resources We expect to talk with parents, students and other involved groups about the learning environment the College provides Learning Facilities The College campus is spacious, airy and extensive. All curriculum areas have dedicated suites of rooms with excellent specialist facilities for practical subjects. The availability of Interactive Whiteboards in classrooms as well as a large number of devoted computer suites and our excellent Resources Centre, help promote student involvement and initiative in learning. We are continuously upgrading our facilities. Recent additions to our provision have been: A purpose built Science block New Art department also housing specialised Science laboratories New ICT and Media Studies classrooms in a new building Two new Refectories Music Technology Suite Extensively refurbished English and Maths departments Extensively refurbished Special Educational Needs Purpose built Auditorium A Sixth Form Coffee Lounge and quiet study area Extensively refurbished Library Resource Centre State of the art, purpose built Engineering suite Arthur Mellows Village College Prospectus 2016/2017 6

7 Our TECHNOLOGY STATUS The College is proud to be a Specialist Technology College and successfully gained redesignation of this status in Technology Status has enabled the College to support research and innovation within a variety of College curriculum areas - especially Mathematics, Science, ICT and Technology. It has increased the amount of computer access to ICT in all subjects. It has also allowed us to further our learning and technology links with our feeder primary schools and so to create an improved path from primary to secondary for all our students. Arthur Mellows Village College Prospectus 2016/2017 7

8 Our LEARNING Students work hard in lessons and make rapid progress across many subjects (Ofsted 2014) Learning is the prime function of the college We have high standards and expectations and are committed to quality teaching and learning. Our ordered environment and traditional values encourage hard work and the structured, balanced curriculum we provide gives students the opportunity to excel across a range of subjects and skills. We see homework as an important part of the learning process too: it requires students to be self-motivated and self-disciplined and to apply their learning more fully. Arthur Mellows Village College Prospectus 2016/2017 8

9 Our CURRICULUM The National Curriculum The National Curriculum aims to enable students become: Successful learners Confident individuals Responsible citizens Excellence in subjects is an essential aspect of the New National Curriculum - but it also emphasises the development of skills for life and work. These are the skills of: Independent enquiry Creative thinking Reflection Team work Self-managing Effective participation A Curriculum for All The College curriculum has been constructed to take account of the National Curriculum, Local Authority initiatives, the needs of employers, universities and colleges. It also reflects those areas which are seen as being essential in the full social and moral development of our students. These are exemplified in the Aims of the College, as set out in the Mission Statement at the beginning of this booklet. Key Stage 3 In Year 7, students entering the College are mainly placed in mixed ability classes. All classes follow the same curriculum. This comprises: Science, Mathematics, English, Religious Education, Technology, Geography, History, Modern Foreign Language, Art and Design, Dance, Drama, Music, Physical Education, Information Technology, Thinking Skills and Life Skills. In Years 8 and 9, students are divided into two populations, each with an equal balance of ability. Within these populations students are taught in groups as appropriate by ability. Students will be asked to choose which of the Expressive Arts subjects (Drama, Music, Dance) in which they wish to specialise. Life Skills is taught in tutor groups. Key Stage 4 In Years 10 and 11, students follow a curriculum which consists entirely of GCSEs or a combined GCSE and vocational curriculum. All courses offered at Key Stage 4 meet National Curriculum requirements. Students are guided towards a curriculum which will enable them to achieve their very best. The following courses are currently available in Years 10 and 11: Art and Design, Business Studies, Graphic Products, Textiles, Resistant Materials, Food, Technology, Dance, Drama, English Language, English Literature, French, Geography, German, History, ICT, Computer Science, Mathematics, Music, Physical Education, Religious Studies (Full course), Religious Studies (Short course), Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Leisure and Tourism, Health and Social Care. Lifeskills and work related learning complete the curriculum. This curriculum is subject to annual review but is correct at the time of going to press. Arthur Mellows Village College Prospectus 2016/2017 9

10 Our CURRICULUM Post-16 Our Sixth Form now has more than 300 students who come both from our own Year 11 and from other local schools. The College offers an array of courses at Post-16 level: AS Level, A2 Level and Vocational A Levels. AS and A2 Levels currently on offer are: Mathematics, English Language, English Literature, Combined English Language and Literature, Media Studies, Theatre Studies, ICT, Computer Science, Art, Music Technology, History, Geography, Business Studies, Economics, French, German, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Design and Technology, Graphical Communication, Sports Studies, Dance, Psychology, Sociology, Ethics, Textiles and Food. The number of subjects and groups are determined by student demand. Vocational A Level courses currently offered include Business Studies, ICT, Travel and Tourism, Music, Sport, Health and Social Care and Child Care. The range will be extended as demand grows. We encourage students to broaden their horizons by involving themselves in Information Technology and Enrichment activities. All students follow a Careers Course which deals with opportunities available to them. Emphasis is placed upon leadership, Key Skills and personal development with an Enrichment Programme for students to develop related interests, (e.g. running a Sixth Form newspaper, Managing a Web Page), and students are expected to participate in community activities in or outside the College. We also run Young Enterprise. Note: A separate Post-16 Prospectus is published in the late Autumn Term which gives much more detail regarding Sixth Form opportunities. Arthur Mellows Village College Prospectus 2016/

11 Our COURSES Arthur Mellows Village College Prospectus 2016/

12 COMPUTING The Computing department offers a high quality computing education that aims to equip learners to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world. The core of computing is computer science, in which learners are taught the principles of information and computation, how digital systems work, and how to put this knowledge to use through programming. Additionally, learners are equipped to use information technology to create programs, systems and a range of content. Computing also ensures that learners become digitally literate enabling them to use, express and develop their ideas through information and communication technology at a level suitable for the future workplace and as active participants in a digital world. units of work, one of which is mandatory are internally assessed, in the form of coursework. All units of work are equally weighted. The department also offers a GCSE in Computer Science. This course comprises of two units of work where learners are tasked to program solutions to given scenarios (60%) and an external exam (40%) POST-16 The College offers a modular based ICT course which is equivalent to AS and GCE. Students are also able to gain the European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL) qualification KEY STAGE 3 Students work on a variety of differentiated tasks, using digital resources delivered via web technologies, which follow the National Curriculum for Computing. KEY STAGE 4 The College offers a modular based ICT course which is equivalent to one GCSE. The course comprises of three units of work, two of which are mandatory. One mandatory unit is in the form of an external examination. The other two Arthur Mellows Village College Prospectus 2016/

13 DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY The Design and Technology Faculty believes in providing curriculum opportunities for all students to achieve their potential by engaging them in challenging, relevant and motivating activities. In Design and Technology, students combine practical and technological skills with creative thinking to design and make products and systems that meet human needs. Whether following an academic or vocational route, all students should feel they have achieved a high standard of excellence and be able to play a constructive role in an ever changing technological society. POST-16 Students can choose from a range of AS/A2 Product Design courses: Resistant Materials Technology; Graphic Products; Food Technology. Fashion and Textiles AS/A2 are also offered within the Faculty KEY STAGE 3 Students in Design and Technology are taught in subject rotation and gain confidence in a variety of skills through design and make projects in resistant materials, electronics, food textiles and graphics. KEY STAGE 4 Students in Design and Technology opt for at least one of the following courses: GCSE in Resistant Materials, Graphics, Food or Textiles. Each course is split 40% external exam and 60% coursework. A BTEC in Engineering is also offered which is taught in a specially designed Innovation Centre. Arthur Mellows Village College Prospectus 2016/

14 ENGLISH In English we aim to help all students become effective learners and communicators. We look to develop the creativity inherent in young people and inspire them to develop all aspects of their reading, writing, speaking and listening skills. English underpins all aspects of life and we encourage pupils to recognise the richness of language and its myriad uses in their everyday lives. By helping them develop confidence with English, we enable them to become effective and adaptable, preparing them for further study and the world of work. POST-16 In the Sixth Form we offer A Levels in Literature and Language. These courses allow students to develop their skills as independent learners, exploring texts from across the ages as well as exploring language in the world around them today. KEY STAGE 3 In Years 7-9 students follow a varied curriculum which includes texts from as early as the 14th century right through to drama and poetry from the 21st. Creativity and imagination are encouraged and basic skills are also taught, preparing pupils for the challenges that lie ahead at GCSE. KEY STAGE 4 In Years 10 and 11, students follow a GCSE course in English Language and Literature. They broaden their horizons as readers and develop the key skills of speaking with confidence and clarity. Arthur Mellows Village College Prospectus 2016/

15 EXPRESSIVE ARTS At Arthur Mellows we believe an understanding of the contribution of Expressive Arts to our lives and national culture is fundamental to a broad and well balanced education. We encourage all students to understand and experience the discipline and demands of performance at all levels. We organise visits and workshops with professional performers and our school year includes several opportunities for our students to give public performances. KEY STAGE 3 Students study Dance, Drama, Art and Music throughout their three years in Key Stage 3. Students will be given the opportunity to specialise in two Performing Arts subjects in Years 8 and 9. KEY STAGE 4 Students may opt to study GCSEs in Dance, Drama, Art and Music. POST-16 Students are able to choose from a range of AS and A2 courses including Dance, Drama and Theatre Studies, Art, Music and Music Technology. Arthur Mellows Village College Prospectus 2016/

16 HUMANITIES The aim of the Humanities faculty is to enable pupils to gain a full knowledge and understanding of their world. We focus on natural and human aspects of the past, present and future and enable pupils to contextualise the skills and knowledge learnt in other subjects such as literacy, numeracy, ICT and science. KEY STAGE 3 Pupils study themes, topics and issues from the National Curriculum documents for Geography and History and the Peterborough Agreed Syllabus and Non-Statutory Framework for RE. KEY STAGE 4 Full course, History, Geography and Religious Education GCSEs are offered as options for students to study. Religious Education short course GCSE is a compulsory part of the Key Stage 4 curriculum for all students. POST-16 AS and A2 courses are offered and students can choose from Geography, History, Philosophy and Ethics (Religious Education), Sociology and General Studies. Arthur Mellows Village College Prospectus 2016/

17 MATHEMATICS Our aim in the Mathematics Department is for everyone to have equal opportunity to enjoy and experience success in Mathematics, resulting in all students achieving their full potential in this subject, and in the many other subjects which require numeracy. We hope students will find Mathematics interesting, worthwhile and related to the real world, but in addition realise that it is a subject rich in history and culture. KEY STAGE 3 Students work through a series of modules based on the National Curriculum. There will be regular mental starters to continually practice and develop numeracy skills. There is also the opportunity to tackle investigations and problem solving activities. KEY STAGE 4 Students will work towards a GCSE over two years. They will develop skills learnt at Key Stage 3 and will look at the functionality of Mathematics and how it is applied to the real world. POST-16 Students can study Mathematics to AS and A2. This will involve students studying Core Mathematics and Applied units in the areas of Statistics and Decision Mathematics. Some students also take up the opportunity to study Further Mathematics either to AS or A2. Arthur Mellows Village College Prospectus 2016/

18 MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES In Modern Foreign Languages we aim to provide all pupils with the opportunity to study a language, encouraging basic communicative competence. Through the language learning process pupils acquire study skills, social skills and intellectual growth. In our curriculum area we endeavour to foster a sympathetic attitude to other countries, their ways of life and the expression of their cultures. We provide courses in which the four main skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing in a foreign language will be explored and assessed as best fits an individual s ability; thereby encouraging a sense of achievement with the least able and the pursuit of excellence with the most able, thus forming a sound basis for continued study. KEY STAGE 3 Pupils study one Modern Foreign Language covering a selection of topics as described in the National Curriculum. KEY STAGE 4 Pupils have the opportunity to continue studying a language at GCSE. POST-16 Pupils are able to choose AS and A2 courses in French or German. Arthur Mellows Village College Prospectus 2016/

19 PHYSICAL EDUCATION In the Physical Education Department our aim is to educate young people to understand the importance of being fit and active and encourage them to leave College with a sound knowledge of how sport can be enjoyed and continued. We offer a vast range of extra curricular activities to encourage all pupils to take part for enjoyment and also to develop our talented students to take part at a higher level. We are very proud of our sporting success both within the City and beyond. KEY STAGE 3 Students will engage in a variety of activities such as baseline fitness tests, basketball, football, hockey, netball, gymnastics, fitness, athletics, swimming, and generic striking and fielding games. KEY STAGE 4 NON-EXAMINATION PE All students will have some core lessons which will include various activities such as fitness, team games, trampolining, athletics, table tennis, and badminton. They will be encouraged to take on different roles such as coach, official and captain and will be given the opportunity to take part in the Junior Sports Leaders Award scheme in one of their core lessons. KEY STAGE 4 EXAMINATION PE All students will be given the opportunity to take a GCSE in Physical Education or study for a BTEC Diploma or Certificate in Physical Education. POST-16 A Level Physical Education is available in College. As part of their enrichment programme, students are also able to take part in the nationally recognised qualification of Community Sports Leader Award in Year 12 which can develop into the Higher Sports Leader Award in Year 13. Arthur Mellows Village College Prospectus 2016/

20 RELIGIOUS EDUCATION The Religious Education Department at Arthur Mellows aims to enable students to gain knowledge and understanding about the Six Major World Religions, with particular emphasis on Christianity. It also aims to develop students ability to respond to, reflect on, investigate and evaluate the information they learn. All of these skills are central to RE as they enable students to formulate balanced arguments, considering different points of view. Students are encouraged to develop their own opinions and awareness of issues, but also to listen to and empathise with others. This understanding of others and these skills of communication are invaluable tools for students as they look to their future, whether it is within the world of work or in further education. KEY STAGE 4 All students study Ethics GCSE Short Course. Full Course GCSE is offered as an option. POST-16 Students follow the Religious Studies AS/A2 Level focusing on Ethics and Philosophy of Eastern Religions. It is a legal requirement for RE to be provided to all registered students in schools, but parents may reserve the right to withdraw students from RE lessons, provided alternative RE work is set. KEY STAGE 3 Students follow schemes of work that are linked to the Peterborough Agreed Syllabus and the Non-Statutory Framework for RE. Arthur Mellows Village College Prospectus 2016/

21 SCIENCE The Science curriculum aims to equip students with the skills and understanding to make sense of the science they meet in every day life. It considers modern science and future developments. Through a wide range of activities students will be able to: Develop an in depth understanding of scientific concepts and theories Understand the impact of science and technology Make informed personal decisions about scientific issues they hear about in the media KEY STAGE 3 Students in Year 7 follow the Science Progress scheme of study which will be carried forward during their time in Key Stage 3. Students in Years 8 and 9 follow the Science Works scheme of study. They are based on National Curriculum programmes of study relevant to that Year Group. Both are designed to promote scientific enquiry, stimulate curiosity in the world and develop an understanding of how science works in everyday life. KEY STAGE 4 All students follow the 21st Century Science scheme from OCR. This can lead to a double award GCSE qualification in Core Science and Additional Science or Additional Applied Science. An increasing number of students opt to study Biology, Chemistry and Physics separately, which leads to three GCSE qualifications. POST-16 Physics, Chemistry and Biology are currently offered at AS and A2. Arthur Mellows Village College Prospectus 2016/

22 Our SUPPORT Arthur Mellows Village College Prospectus 2016/

23 Our SUPPORT Special Educational Needs The College believes in providing an education which is tailored to students individual needs. As outlined in the 2014 revised SEN Code of Practice, this begins with quality first teaching and differentiation by teachers in the classroom. Every student who enters the College is carefully assessed through the following tests: Cognitive Ability Tests (CATs) GRT II Reading Test Blackwell Spelling Test For students with literacy related learning difficulties, the College currently provides a withdrawal programme for students working below expected levels in reading during Years 7-9 (6 lessons per timetable cycle): It combines elements of the following: The Department for Education Key Stage 3 progress unit materials The SRA Corrective Reading Scheme Spelling made easy (Violet Brand) For those with numeracy related learning difficulties, the College currently provides a withdrawal programme including elements of the Embedding a Level 4 catch-up programme during Year 7 (2 lessons per timetable cycle). The Special Needs Department operates individual, small group and in-class support as the means of addressing more acute difficulties. All students are screened at the end of Year 9 against the criteria for exam arrangements. Tests used include: Edinburgh 4 reading comprehension assessment DASH handwriting speed test CTOPP processing speed (if needed) Applications are then made to the awarding bodies for those who meet the strict criteria for arrangements, eg a reader. The College also offers a paired reading scheme and a Kindle reading club for students who wish to improve their reading Kickstart sensory circuit activities are available each morning before school and for vulnerable groups there are before school, break and lunchtime supported places. All students requiring targeted or additional interventions to usual differentiated classroom activities are placed, as outlined in the new SEN Code of Practice 2014, on School Support. A copy of the Special Educational Needs Policy is available upon request. Gifted and Talented Provision The College firmly believes in identifying, providing for and extending Gifted and Talented students, personalising their learning to enable each one to reach and exceed their potential. Identification of Gifted and Talented students is extremely important. A comprehensive mixture of assessment data is used in conjunction with teacher feedback (contemporary and from previous schools) and parent feedback. Students are placed on a whole school Gifted and Talented and a subject specific Gifted and Talented register. The College works with a number of organisations, including Oxford and Cambridge universities, to ensure that the needs of Gifted and Talented students are met. Teachers are an integral part of the day to day provision for Gifted and Talented students. They are familiar with those on the register and provide for them accordingly through setting, differentiated activities and extension activities. Enrichment is also key. Gifted and Talented students have many exciting opportunities to work outside the National Curriculum to enhance their learning. Arthur Mellows Village College Prospectus 2016/

24 Our SUPPORT Homework We want all our students to: Become responsible for their own learning Develop good techniques for study and good organisational skills Improve the standard of their work Learn the skills for undertaking research Prepare for forthcoming lessons Homework is an essential part of developing these skills. How can your child help themselves with homework? They can follow their teacher s guidance by writing their homework clearly in their planner with the deadline date They can set aside time, at home, when they know they will do their homework They can prepare the materials and resources they will need for completing their homework They can give their attention and concentration solely to their work How can you support your child with their homework? Providing your child with an appropriate place to do their homework and the encouragement they need are the most important things. The College is happy for you to give your child assistance, either by talking the work through with them or by providing examples which they may follow on their own. There are also some helpful websites available such as BBC Bitesize. The Future - Education and Careers Guidance Careers Education is an important part of the Curriculum and lifeskills programme. In each year pupils will investigate different careers and career pathways using a variety of impartial advice and guidance lessons and programmes. During key transition times pupils will focus on their personal options, considering their own education and career intentions. In particular, Year 9 will reflect on their Key Stage 4 option choices, Year 10 will prepare and take part in a two week work experience and Year 11 will prepare for their 16+ options. In the Sixth Form lessons are focused on post 18 options which for many is the UCAS application procedure. Pupils also have access to careers advisors, and an advisor also attends parents evenings. The College has a fully stocked Careers Library and uses dedicated Careers Education and Impartial Advice Guidance programmes that are accessible to both pupils and parents. Links with industry are fostered through many ways such as visits, presentations, collapsed days, work experience and exhibitions. If your child has tried to do their homework but has been unable to complete it, please write a note in their planner to the subject teacher. It is important that the teacher knows so that they are able to offer support. What happens if your child does not do the homework? Some students do not complete homework even when they have had the necessary time and support. In these instances, students may be kept in detention, at break or lunchtime in order to complete their work; subject teachers or Heads of Faculty may write a note to parents in a student s planner; or parents may be contacted by letter or by phone. In all situations, the College is seeking student co-operation to improve learning and achievement. Arthur Mellows Village College Prospectus 2016/

25 Our SUPPORT Learning Outside the Classroom Arthur Mellows offers a broad range of activities, outside the classroom, to involve and excite students. Some of these take place regularly at lunchtimes or after school; some involve visitors into the College; and some involve trips out. A sample of the regular lunchtime and after school activities includes: Competitions such as: The Magistrates Court Mock Trial competition The UK Maths Challenge X Factor style singing competition Clubs: Connecting Classrooms Jaguar Maths Challenge Homework Clubs (Library after school) ICT Programming Club Shakespeare Schools Festival We also have a strong tradition of trips and visits, some local but some including residential stays abroad. Students and parents are informed of these trips by individual letter. For example, the College is extremely proud of the high uptake in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme and the excellent rate of success achieved by our students. Opportunities have also been available for students to visit Warwick Castle, the Black Country Museum, the First World War Battlefields, Wales, Switzerland, Barcelona and New York on a variety of curriculum related and enrichment activities. College Concerts and Productions We are proud of the many students who give their time freely to preparing for the range of concerts and productions that take place at the College. The Expressive Arts Faculty has an excellent record of events such as Christmas and Summer concerts, GCSE Dance and Theatre Studies performances, traditional theatre productions such as A Midsummer Night s Dream and full scale musicals like Our House, We Will Rock You and Back to the Eighties. Details of lunchtime and after school clubs and activities are available on the College website. Arthur Mellows Village College Prospectus 2016/

26 Our SUPPORT Music Beyond the Curriculum Extra curricular music making is very important at Arthur Mellows and we pride ourselves on the wide range of opportunities on offer to our students. Everyone is encouraged to learn to play an instrument. We have an excellent record of promoting instrumental music at the College and many students begin to learn an instrument here. We are also very careful to ensure that students joining us from Primary Schools continue to receive lessons once they arrive at Arthur Mellows Village College. We have a large, dedicated specialist team of professional teachers who visit the College each week to deliver instrumental music lessons for Brass, Woodwind, Strings, Piano, Guitar, Drums and Voice. We have many ensembles of different ability levels to allow all students to have an opportunity to perform with other musicians. These include Senior Orchestra, Junior Band, String Group, Choir and Brass Band. Students are also encouraged to form their own musical groups. We put on concerts and performances throughout the year in which keep all our musicians very active and involved in the musical life of the College. Sport The College has an impressive record in major sports with representatives in National, Regional, County and Peterborough teams. Students have participated in English Schools Athletics Meetings and All England Cross-Country events during the last few years. Regular teams and clubs are open to all pupils whether they are interested in competing against other schools or just coming along for fun. These take place according to the season in Hockey, Rugby, Soccer, Cricket, Badminton, Basketball, Netball, Athletics, Rounders, Trampolining, Gymnastics and Table Tennis. Our students compete successfully in a wide range of district events. Our facilities include a Sports Hall, Gymnasium, All Weather Pitch, a Fitness Centre, Outdoor Pitches for Rugby and Football and a Hard Court area for netball and tennis. Arthur Mellows Village College has links with the following clubs: Nene Valley Basketball Club; Peterborough Summer and Winter Leagues in Netball; Peterborough Lions Rugby Club; Peterborough, Deepings and Northampton Saints Rugby United Football Clubs; Peterborough Athletics Club; Nene Valley Harriers; Werrington Joggers; Deeping Rangers Football Club; Baston and Langtoft, Deepings and Barnack Cricket Clubs; Peterborough Hockey Club; Peterborough Rowing Club; Peterborough Table Tennis Club. Arthur Mellows Village College Prospectus 2016/

27 Our CARE Arthur Mellows Village College Prospectus 2016/

28 Our CARE The Pastoral Team While your child is a student at Arthur Mellows, the Pastoral Team will have responsibility for their welfare. This will involve your child s Form Tutor, their Head of Year and members of the Pastoral Support Team. The Form Tutor At the beginning of the Autumn Term in Year 7, each student will be placed with a Form Tutor: a member of the teaching staff at the College. The Form Tutor will help introduce the students in his/her care to the daily routines of the College and is often likely to be the first port of call for a student who may have a worry or concern. The Tutor normally remains with their tutor group until the end of Year 11 and, in this way, has general oversight of a student s welfare as well as their academic progress. The Pastoral Support Team This team supports the Heads of Year and Form Tutors in providing help, guidance and care for individual students. Student Voice At Arthur Mellows, we value the contribution that students can make to the education they receive. Similarly, we know that they want and value the opportunity to have a say in the education we provide. The Student Council is often the channel for good observations and ideas. It also, frequently, gives us groups of students who wish to be involved in student research. Our achievement of Fair Trade Status and Health Schools Status, for example, together with the variation of Key Stage 4 uniform introduced, were all pioneered by the student body. Rewards Our philosophy of care and support would not be complete without a substantial system of rewards to help students feel respected and valued. With this in mind we operate a recording system called SIMS Points which allows us to electronically recognise all positive contributions to College life. The recorded data allows us to send positive s to parents and to present medals and trophies to both individuals and groups. The use of this system allows the College to have a clear overview of College life both academically and behaviourally. Arthur Mellows Village College Prospectus 2016/

29 Our CARE Against Bullying Our students have recently been a vital voice in reviewing our Anti-Bullying policy. Through this policy, students are encouraged to develop a positive attitude towards themselves and others and also to identify sources of personal support. We believe that everyone should have the same basic rights of freedom from all forms of harassment. These rights are embodied in our disciplinary code of conduct. As such, we believe that bullying is not an acceptable part of school life, nor an inevitable part of growing up. We seek to ensure that victims of bullying are given support while aggressors are helped to see the error of their ways. Students are in no doubt as to the outcome of involvement in bullying: they can expect to be dealt with seriously and for their parents to be informed and involved. Parents agree that students are well cared for and that the academy keeps them safe (Ofsted 2014) Personal Development We believe that the personal development of young people is essential to their health, safety and achievement as individuals within society. Our Lifeskills programme, based on the Cambridge and Peterborough Frameworks for Personal development, incorporates the following aspects of personal development which are key in this respect: The knowledge, skills and attitudes to make healthy choices and manage risk The ability to form and manage supportive and stable relationships The capacity to develop awareness of themselves as learners in a changing world The capacity to recognise and celebrate diversity and difference The opportunity to participate actively as citizens in their school and communities The development of an understanding of how society works and the rights and responsibilities of being a citizen The ability to anticipate the demands and challenges of adult life including work and leisure opportunities The opportunity to demonstrate their creativity and enterprise The programme is delivered through a combination of tutorial time activity, dedicated curriculum time for Lifeskills, collapsed timetable time and further school and community based opportunities. Arthur Mellows Village College Prospectus 2016/

30 Our CARE Sex and Drugs Education The majority of sex and drugs education at Arthur Mellows is delivered through the Lifeskills curriculum, by a team of dedicated teachers, and the programme is further enhanced by enrichment time with specialised health professionals. We consider it essential that students are given appropriate information, in a safe and caring environment, alongside the opportunity to ask questions and to discuss the important biological, personal and moral issues. Legislation 5/94 gives parents the right to withdraw their child from all, or part of, the Sex Education outside the National Curriculum. A parent who wishes to exercise this right should, in the first instance, contact the Deputy in charge of Curriculum to discuss their concerns. Child Protection Arthur Mellows fully recognises its responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of its students. It may be helpful for parents to know that the Authority requires Head Teachers to report any obvious or suspected case of child abuse which includes nonaccidental injury, severe physical neglect, emotional abuse and/or sexual abuse. This procedure is intended to protect children at risk and schools are encouraged to take the attitude that, where there are grounds for suspicion, it is better to be safe than sorry. This means that Head Teachers may upset some parents by reporting a case which, on investigation, proves unfounded. In such circumstances, we hope that parents will understand how difficult it is for a Head Teacher to carry out this delicate responsibility and accept that the Head Teacher is acting in what is believed to be the child s best interest. Discipline The College strives to create a happy and orderly atmosphere in which meaningful work can effectively take place. We expect and demand high standards of behaviour. Our code of behaviour is guided by common sense and good manners: courtesy and consideration for others are always required. Students are reminded in morning assemblies and during tutorial time of what the College expects. Self-discipline remains the most effective way of creating the right College atmosphere. There are, however, measures taken in cases of misbehaviour. These can range from an informal rebuke to exclusion from the College. For low level misbehaviour a student can be sent to a supervised study area. Lunchtime and after school detentions are also used. Parents are informed when misbehaviour which is other than minor occurs. It is the view of the College that when problems arise the care, concern and support of the parents is most important. An effective partnership between staff and parents ensures the continued maintenance of the kind of College that we all seek. Good behaviour is also expected from all students when travelling to and from the College by bus. A Healthy, Safe Environment In a school environment where there are lots of people, staff and students share a responsibility to ensure that everyone is as safe as possible. Staff follow a detailed code which includes understanding the safety procedures of the College as well as supervising classrooms, corridors and break and lunchtime areas. For students, it is essential: To exercise a sensible and disciplined personal responsibility for the safety of themselves and other students To observe suitable standards of dress consistent with the requirements of safety and/or hygiene. This will preclude unsuitable footwear, jewellery, sharp instruments etc. To observe all the safety rules of the College and in particular the instructions of staff given in an emergency To use appropriately and not wilfully misuse, neglect or interfere with - anything provided for their safety The College welcomes parental help in explaining these principles to students. School Meals The College is proud of its Healthy Schools Status. This means that we recognise and champion the importance of a sound diet as a foundation for good health. We use an external contractor to deliver school meals and catering services and their emphasis is on providing high quality food preparation and presentation which delivers healthy eating objectives. Breakfast is available from am and nutritionally balanced lunchtime meals, which appeal to students of all ages, are on offer each day. The College operates a cashless catering system within both Refectories. Arthur Mellows Village College Prospectus 2016/

31 Other INFORMATION Arthur Mellows Village College Prospectus 2016/

32 Other INFORMATION Dress Code We know that the wearing of school uniform helps to develop pride in the College and that this feeling is reflected in standards of work, manners and the behaviour of students. We hope that parents will give the College their support by providing their child with the College uniform. The College uniform for students should: be consistent; all students should be of similar appearance be identifiable and smart, giving a positive image of the college be of the traditional dark green, or black for Key Stage 4, for coloured items. be common to both boys and girls as far as is reasonable be simple and hence easy for parents and staff to manage keep cost to parents as low as possible recognise changes in fashion while avoiding extremes Please note: The Head of College retains the right to ban outlandish fashions and/or fashions which could be considered a Health and Safety risk. As clothes fashions and appearance fashions vary from year to year it is impossible to list every change. Parents are always advised to check with the College before allowing their son/daughter to engage in buying such clothing or changing their appearance. The College has a full and clear code of dress which is included in the Supplement. Mobile Phones Students are able to bring mobile phones into school. They may use them both inside and outside at break and lunchtimes. Texts, calls and listening to music are all acceptable. However: Mobiles must be switched off and out of sight in all lessons (for example, phones cannot be used in class as calculators) The camera, video and voice recording facilities cannot be used in school at all Pupils bring in mobiles at their own risk Pupils who break any of the rules will have their phones removed and placed in the school safe. Normal disciplinary systems will then take over. Collective Assembly Morning assembly takes place once a week for each Year Group. This may be led by the Head of College, a member of the Senior Leadership Team or the Head of Year and will celebrate the important aspects of College life and values, promoting social, cultural and moral issues. Transport Most of our students travel to the College by bus. Those in the traditional catchment area travel by Local Authority contract buses. These are managed and overseen by the Local Authority transport division, not by the College. Students from the North of the City usually use public transport, mainly Stagecoach or Delaine bus services. The College has no control over the procedures or activities of these companies. Good behaviour is expected from all students travelling to the College and we expect all cyclists and pedestrians to follow the Highway Code. Students who cycle are encouraged to wear cycle helmets and to be visible. If a student misses a bus home after school he/she must report to the member of staff on duty or to Main Reception, where arrangements for contacting parents and safe provision will be made. It is essential that we have up to date contact numbers for all children. Student Arrival On Site Staff supervision of students in the playground begins at 8.30am each morning. All students should be on the premises by 8.45am and must not leave the College premises without permission. Students punctuality is monitored. Any changes to normal College procedure will be notified in writing by the Head of College. Holiday Absence The College will not authorise holidays of any length taken in term time. This is in accordance with Government guidelines and in support of our attendance policy. Arthur Mellows Village College Prospectus 2016/