Ahccy7parentsguidebook final

All Hallows Catholic College A faith College specialising in business, ethical enterprise and languages

Year 7 Parent Handbook 2013 - 2014

All Hallows Catholic College is an outstanding College, characterised by a palpable ethos that combines gospel values, ethical enterprise and aspiration for all students to be the best that they can in all dimensions of their lives.

OfSTED April 2011

All are welcome in this place…

Congratulations to all of the pupils from the following schools who have been successful in gaining places at All Hallows Catholic College for admission in September 2013.

Adlington Primary School, (Adlington), Astbury St Mary’s Church of England Primary School (Congleton), Bollinbrook Church of England Primary School (Macclesfield), Bollington Cross Church of England Primary School (Bollington), Christ the King Catholic and Church of England Primary School (Macclesfield), Gawsworth Primary School (Gawsworth), Hollinhey Primary School (Sutton), Ivy Bank Primary School (Macclesfield), Kettleshulme Church of England Primary School (Kettleshulme), Lower Park Primary School (Poynton), Marton and District Church of England Primary School (Macclesfield), Parkroyal Primary School (Macclesfield), Pott Shrigley Church School, Pott Shrigley), Prestbury Church of England Primary School (Prestbury), Rainow Primary School (Rainow), St Alban’s Catholic Primary School (Macclesfield), St Benedict’s Catholic Primary School (Handforth), St Gregory’s Catholic Primary (Bollington), St John the Evangelist Church of England Primary School (Macclesfield), St Mary’s Catholic Primary School (Congleton), St Paul’s Catholic Primary School (Poynton), St Simon’s Catholic Primary School (Stockport), The Marlborough Primary School (Tytherington), Underwood West Primary School (Crewe), Vernon Primary School (Poynton), Whirley Primary School (Macclesfield), Wincle Church of England Primary School (Wincle), Worth Primary School (Poynton).

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Contents Page / Section

28 Anti-Bullying 4 Welcome 5 College Mission Statement 7 Partnership Covenant 8 College Staff 10 Pastoral Care

29 Policies 30 Term Dates 31 College Map 32 Governors and Trustees

12 Getting ready for the new term

33 Advice for Parents

13 College Day

37 Privacy Notice

15 The Curriculum

39 Safeguarding

18 College Uniform

41 Signature Page

21 Being Equipped for Learning 22 Prayers

Contact Information College Address All Hallows Catholic College Brooklands Avenue Macclesfield Cheshire SK11 8LB

I am Learning Username: Password: www.samlearning.com

Telephone: 01625 426138 Fax: 01625 468126 General Email: admin@allhallows.org.uk

www.linguascope.com

Linguascope Username: Password:

A Tantot Username: Password: www.atantot.com

Website www.allhallows.org.uk

Child’s Form Tutor Your child’s form tutor is your first point of contact with the College:

All Hallows On Line / RealSmart Username: Password:

24 Attendance and Punctuality

Mymaths Username: Password: www.mymaths.co.uk

25 College Restaurant and Café

On-line reporting for parents

27 ICT

email log in: Password:

23 Students Planner

Name:

‘Students’ behaviour is outstanding, evidenced by caring, compassionate attitudes, a strong sense of pride in the College and an eagerness to learn’ OfSTED 2011 3

A Warm Welcome to All Hallows Congratulations on securing a place for your Child at All Hallows Catholic College. This is a wonderful time for your son or daughter to be joining All Hallows as we continue to provide an outstanding faith inspired education with a unique emphasis on traditional Christian values, success for all, and modern approaches to teaching and learning. We promise to work with you to help your child strive for excellence and ‘Aspire not to have more but to be more’ (Oscar Romero).

Following on from the OfSTED and Diocesan outstanding inspections of 2011 we have continued to strive for excellence in our aim to become a world-class place for learning and in the development of human character. We became a voluntary academy in January 2013 and this new identity as a publicly funded independent school marks a new phase in the ongoing renewal of our remarkably successful Catholic College.

Our unique emphasis on an education for the whole child means we have a strong emphasis on personalising learning and making every day interesting and everything a stimulus for learning. This is underpinned by our character as a Catholic academy and by our specialisms; business and ethical enterprise, languages and the international dimension, the College farm and outdoor learning activities.

OfSTED commented on our unique and successful approach to teaching and we hope that you will come to understand our methodology which embeds deep learning and nurtures the values of honourable purpose, respect, compassion, co-operation and stewardship and the skills of critical thinking, self-reliance and creativity.

All Hallows is now the College of choice not only for our traditional Catholic community but also for many more parents seeking our special ethos and culture of success.

This has led to a special relationship with many primary schools in the area, and especially those schools with a faith based ethos.

You child is joining a College which showcases the very best practice in teaching and learning as a national Champion Training Centre for the Teacher Effectiveness Enhancement Programme [TEEP]. We welcome many visitors to our lessons and send our teachers out as trainers into other academies and schools. Our students, in their role as Lead Learners regularly present at regional and national conferences explaining how they learn best and the features of the very best lessons. This constant reflection on best practice makes sure our own teaching is constantly and creatively renewed.

The culture of success at All Hallows is built on a secure partnership with parents who have made an active choice for our College. As a Church school we are enriched by the fact that we draw our students from many geographical areas and are not simply a local comprehensive drawing, children from one locality.

As parents you will be reassured by the fact that we set clear behavioural boundaries for our young people and actively teach values. This has led to high standards of conduct and a sense of being community and family. The ‘dress for success’ principle in the wearing of uniform and the refusal to accept a fashion or make-up culture, have led to a focused, business-like and respectful learning environment. As new (or several time) parents of our students we ask that you (continue to) support College policy and ensure that your child is an excellent ambassador for All Hallows both on and off the campus.

I trust you will find this Year 7 Parent Handbook useful in that it is designed to give you key information.

A warm welcome to our community!

Tony Billings Principal July 2013

This means we are a truly mixed community, where aspirations are high and differences are valued. In this respect we take equal pleasure in educating children from all backgrounds and with all types of needs, helping each child to reach their unique potential.

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Our Mission Statement and Values Aspire not to have more but to be more (Archbishop Oscar Romero) All Hallows Catholic College is committed to embracing Christian values and showing honourable purpose in daily living and learning. We are inspired by the words and actions of Jesus Christ, wanting to make learning in our community a personal encounter with God and a preparation for life in all its fullness. Our core values are:

Honourable Purpose We have faith in God and each other and act with integrity, ‘aspiring not to have more but to be more’. We show honourable purpose in all we do taking responsibility for our actions by being reliable, honest, respectful, trustworthy and telling the truth.

Respect We welcome and show respect for the dignity and diversity of every person. It is our belief that ‘Every Child and Everyone Matters’ to God because we are created in ‘His image and likeness’.

Compassion We show we love God and our neighbour by ‘treating each other in the way we would like to be treated ourselves’, and paying goodness forward with acts of kindness and charity. Compassion means we are humble and believe in being fair, showing forgiveness and allowing reconciliation.

Co-operation We co-operate with God and each other to build community and a sense of pride in belonging; within our College, our neighbourhood, and in our world. We co-operate by ‘living simply, sustainably, and in solidarity’ with all members of the human family and especially those who are poor.

Stewardship We are accountable to God and each other. We show we ‘love God and our neighbour as ourselves’ by being good stewards of our gifts, talents and resources. We believe it is our duty to support everyone to reach their full potential in sustainable communities and to protect our world for future generations.

These values define the character of our relationships with each other, our community and business partners, and the world family. Students and staff are encouraged to remember these values on the five fingers of one hand and there is a clear line on discipline, appearance and expectations of behaviour, with staff determined to be both demanding and compassionate.

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Pay It Forward Your child will be taught the concept of Pay It Forward, as a way for putting gospel values into action.

This idea of paying a favour forward, not back – repaying good deeds not with ‘payback’, but with new good deeds done to three new people is well known to All Hallows students and staff. The idea was first developed in the USA from a film of the same name, about a young boy who is challenged by his Social Studies teacher to come up with one idea 'that will change the world and put it into action'. The idea results in 'random acts of kindness' and charity towards other people. Pay It Forward campaigns regularly feature in the life of our College and they make everyone feel good!

Below are just a few of the suggestions which students and staff put into action:

Make a donation to charity Say ‘hello’ Eat lunch with someone new Share a smile Give a compliment Give something up Gift an unexpected gift Leave a thank you note Do a favour Encourage someone Pick up litter Lend a hand Let another go first Open a door Really listen to someone Help carry a load Offer your seat Forgive someone Pray for a friend Show respect Give space Help someone less fortunate Thank a teacher Read to a Child Say ‘please’ Load the dishwasher Treat others in the way you would like to be treated Do a kind act every day Take on something extra Be Patient Pray for someone who treats you badly Respect difference Buy Fairtrade goods Say ‘Sorry’ Do good Show compassion Don’t bully Give time Pass a kindness on Be tolerant Bring peace

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Our Partnership Covenant We rely on the commitment and support of all parents to make this partnership work. We often run events to support this partnership and are always open to new ideas and feedback so please contact us whenever you feel the need to.

This is a summary of the Home-College agreement that Form Tutors, Parents and Students are asked to sign up to in the College Planner. We know how important it is to build partnerships with parents. This builds strength in our community and supports students in their development, spirituality and learning. .

The College will try to;

As a family we will try to;

As a student at All Hallows I will try to;

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provide a safe and stimulating College life, based on Gospel values celebrate the achievements of students and inform parents contact parents with problems regarding attendance, punctuality, equipment and behaviour support parents in ensuring the College uniform is worn contact parents when we use our legal right to place a student in an after College detention send home a written report each year in addition to a verbal subject report at Parent’s Evening let parents know of any concerns we have about their child’s work, progress or behaviour insist all students observe our behaviour policy meet the requirements of students with Special Needs within resources available set and mark homework as appropriate keep parents informed about College activities through letters, newsletters, emails, texts and notices

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be aware that All Hallows has been established by the Catholic Church to provide students with access to the National Curriculum and access to the Catholic faith in order to develop his or her understanding and practice of the teachings of Jesus and the Church ensure our child goes to College regularly and on time ensure our child wears the full College uniform see our child is properly equipped for lessons support College policies regarding behaviour ensure homework set in College is done take an active interest in our child’s College life attend Parent’s Evenings when possible be involved with Parent Teacher Association events where possible communicate to the College information which may affect our child

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‘We

remember that All Hallows is a Catholic College and that I should take advantage of all the opportunities offered to develop my spiritual nature as well as my learning. I should “aspire not to have more but to be more” keep the College rules and behave correctly attend College every day unless I am ill wear all the College uniform correctly and with pride make sure my books and equipment are ready in my bag each night for College the next day do my best in all my lessons and follow each teacher's requests present my work neatly taking pride in my writing and my ideas, and always try to improve on my achievements respect other students and all the people who work here; complete my homework on time make sure my parents and teachers are aware of messages in my Student Planner make sure all letters sent from my home or my College are delivered the same day behave properly on my way to and from College whether walking or on a bus uphold our 5 College values: HONOURABLE PURPOSE, RESPECT, COMPASSION, CO-OPERATION AND STEWARDSHIP

love the ethos of the College and my daughter is thriving in the environment.’ Y7 Parent 7

College Teaching Staff SENIOR LEADERSHIP TEAM

MATHEMATICS

Mr Billings (Principal) Mrs Connor (Deputy & Y7/8) Mr Nickson (Deputy & Y9/10/11) Ms Bill (Assistant Principal) Mr Blades (Assistant Principal) Mrs Garvey (Assistant Principal Mrs Connolly (Business Manager) Mr A Diamond (Assistant Principal)

Mrs C Wise (Faculty Leader) Mr S Cunningham (Assistant) Mrs S Marshall (AST) Mrs A Coates Mrs E Richardson Mrs A Marsh Mrs C Faulkner Mr R Horan Miss J Fowkes Mr D Slobodian

YEAR LEARNING LEADERS Year 7 Mrs Moffat Year 8 Mr Parke Year 9 Mrs Moulsdale Year 10 Mrs Remfrey Year 11 Mrs Williams Sixth Form Mrs Garvey

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION Ms B Ruddy (Faculty Leader) Mrs M Garvey Rev. D Harrison (Chaplaincy) Ms K Lawry Mr J Keane

SCIENCE Mr J Woodward (Faculty Leader) Mr J Faulkner (Assistant) Mr J Shropshire Mr D Aspinall Mr P Nickson Mr D Hall Ms R Mills Mr H Fitzwilliam Pope Mr M Shaik Miss K Sweeney

LANGUAGES ENGLISH Ms P Carroll (Faculty Leader) Mr T Hart (Assistant) Mrs S Ibison Miss E Stebbings (Literacy) Mr N Mallon Miss A Taylor Miss C Perry Miss S Davies Miss R Gerrard Mr A Kelly

Mrs A Harrison (Director of Specialism) Ms F White (Faculty Leader) Ms V Humphreys (Specialism) Mrs A Zheng-O’Shea Miss S Easter Miss J Morris

BUSINESS, IT AND ENTERPRISE (BITE) Mrs J Lynch (Faculty Leader) Mrs S Williams (IT Leader) Mrs AM Connor Mrs G Moulsdale Mrs P Lockwood Mr M Blades Mrs J Sutton Mr T Parke Mr J Steed

ART, DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY (ADT) Mr P McSwity (Faculty Leader) Ms C Hartley-Potts (Design & Technology Leader) Mrs L Remfry Mrs C Wilkinson Miss A Cook Miss K Lee Mrs P Welfle (Food Leader) Mrs A Heaton HUMANITIES Mr N McCaul (History Leader) Mr G Diamond (SENCo) Ms B Bill Mr A Ebbrell (Geography Leader) Mr A Scott

PERFORMING ARTS Miss J Pridding (Head of Performing Arts) Mr M Richardson (Music Leader) Miss S Jackson (Dance Leader) Mrs P Moffat Miss L Asquith (Drama Leader)

PHYSICAL EDUCATION Mr S Lawson (Faculty Leader) Mrs R Ellicott (Assistant) Mr S Lees Mr J Mercer Mr B Mercer Miss S Thomason

SOCIAL SCIENCE Mr D Howells (Faculty Leader) Miss M Roper

VOCATIONAL SUBJECTS Mrs P Welfle (Food Leader) Mrs A Heaton

ADDITIONAL NEEDS Mr G Diamond (SENCo) Mr M Evans (Hearing specialist) Ms J Darbyshire (SEN specialist)

Miss

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College Associate Staff PRINCIPAL’S PA Mrs P Lacey

OFFICE MANAGER Mrs S Skelton

RECEPTIONIST

COVER TEACHERS/ SUPERVISORS Mr L Gordon Mrs C Housley Mr B Mercer Ms A Skulova Mr A Wilson

Mrs C Mullaney

TEACHING ASSISTANTS Mrs A Weaver Mrs P Virani Mrs H Gibbons Mrs L Coates Mrs J Whilock Mr J Bullock Mrs E Stewart Mrs S Dunlevy Mrs J Whittaker Miss J Cooper Miss L Mullaney Miss L Preece

REPROGRAPHICS Mrs R Thompson ROMERO CENTRE ADMINISTRATOR

E SYSTEMS

EXAMINATIONS AND DATA

Mr A Gostelow (Manager) Mr J Waller (Technician) Mr M Kellett (Technician)

Mrs S West (Examinations Officer) Mrs G Hulme (Data Assistant)

TECHNICIANS

FINANCE OFFICE

Mrs D Stratford (Science/Farm) Mrs U Harris (Science) Mrs A Fazl Lavassani (ADT/ Food/Catering) Mr L Gordon (PVA)

Miss T Sultana – Senior Finance Officer Mrs A Stirling Mrs E Leighton Mrs C Van Staden Mrs E Hicklin

CLERICAL ASSISTANTS

OFFICE APPRENTICES

Mrs B Walsh (Attendance) Mrs S Kalnins Classroom Assistant Classroom Assistant Classroom Assistant CARETAKING Mr R Hulme (Senior) Mr S Bartoli Mr M Broomhead

Miss R Flower Miss S Gatley

PASTORAL SUPPORT ASSISTANT

Classroom Assistant THE CORNERSTONE Mrs G Holmes (Behaviour support)

FAMILY SUPPORT Mrs P Shatwell

Mrs J Moorhouse

LIBRARY ASSISTANT Mrs M Kurek

Mrs N Simms

‘We feel a strong affinity and are very supportive of the Colleges aims and values.’ Year 7 Parent

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Pastoral Care The Head Teacher is assisted in the planning and delivery of pastoral care at All Hallows by a team which includes the Senior Leadership Team, Year Learning Leaders, Form Tutors, a Pastoral Secretary and a Family Support Worker.

The College has seven form groups in Years 711, each of which has its own patron and forms a ‘House’ across all years. The seven Houses are: BARLOW, CLITHEROW, FISHER, HUME, MORE, NEWMAN, WISEMAN

Form Tutors are the first point of contact at the College and will deal with the majority of questions or concerns that may arise. For more serious issues, the Year Learning Leader is there to support you and your child both in terms of their academic progress and for any serious pastoral issues that may develop.

Students can earn Merit Plus points for their houses throughout the year, which not only attract personal recognition, but also contribute to competitive totals for each House and through sponsorship pay forward a donation to the College social enterprise, building a clinic in Southern India.

Please get in touch with your child’s Form Tutor or Year Learning Leader either by phone, e-mail, letter or a note in your child’s Student Planner.

PASTORAL SUPPORT FOR YEAR 7 YOUR CHILD’S FORM TUTOR YEAR LEARNING LEADER Mrs P Moffat

Parents and students are encouraged to follow the order of contact detailed here for any concerns or issues unless there is a serious or major concern that requires urgent assistance.

ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL Mr A Diamond DEPUTY PRINCIPAL Mrs A M Connor Contact the College as soon as possible if you have a concern. If you would like to see a member of staff please telephone or email to make an appointment, to make sure the member of staff is not teaching.

The pastoral staff should be kept informed about illness, absence, dental or medical appointments, or any change in home circumstances.

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Tutor Groups and Key Pastoral Staff Your child will be placed in a Form Tutor Group. There are seven tutor groups in Year 7. Each group is named after a House Patron, a well-known Catholic Christian who, as a witness to the Gospel, encourages us in our faith.

Year Learning Leader: Mrs P Moffat

Form Tutor

Assistant Principal (SENCO): Mr A Diamond

My Child’s belongs to Form 7 …………………

The Tutor’s name is: The Tutor’s E Mail Address is: ……………………………….@allhallows.org.uk

Deputy Principal (Head of Lower College): Mrs A-M Connor

Students agree that the quality of care, guidance and support they receive is a major strength of the College, commenting in discussion that ‘staff really know us well and are always there for us.’ OfSTED April 2011 Students may use a confidential email address to report worries and concerns regarding bullying to a senior teacher. The email address is bullying@allhallowslearning.co.uk Students are positively encouraged to talk to their form tutor and Year Leader about bullying. The College takes a strong stand on bullying when it is reported.

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Getting ready for the new term Transition and Transfer During the Trinity term prior to the students starting at the College, key staff visit the primary Colleges to discuss individual needs and see the students in their own learning environment.

The information and data gathered helps the College staff to make the best decisions with regard to pastoral and teaching groups. A wealth of information is used to help formulate the groups, including prior attainment data.

Part of the transfer process involves an Induction Day for Year 6 at the College when they spend the day with their new form tutors and classmates, getting to know each other.

Parents are invited to attend a coffee morning / afternoon tea, hosted by the Principal and other key staff in June.

There is also an Induction Evening in July when parents have the opportunity to meet their child’s Form Tutor and order / purchase the College uniform.

First Day On the first day of the Michaelmas term only Year 7 and the Sixth Form students attend College. This gives them the opportunity to settle in and navigate their way around the building.

The day is spent mainly with their Form Tutors, engaged in team building activities, receiving their timetables and getting used to College routines.

Building a Community of Learners Your child’s induction to our College community will involve several enrichment activities which we believe help all our Year 7 students settle into life at the College. One of the main activities is the one-day retreat at the Marist Centre in Manchester, which each of the forms attend with their form tutor during September. Students benefit hugely from this experience educationally, socially and spiritually. They share their experience with you as parents at the Service of Welcome early in the Michaelmas term.

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College Day

Mon

Tue

Here are the timings of the College Day. Students need to be on the campus by 8.50am at the latest.

Most lessons are timetabled as one and a half hours and students move to class during natural breaks.

1 (Reading) 8.55-9.40am 2 9.40-10.25am

1 (Lesson) 8.55-9.40am 2 9.40-10.25am

3 10.25-11.10am

3 10.25-11.10am

Break/Lunch 1 11.10-11.40am

Break/Lunch 1 11.10-11.40am

4 11.40am-12.25pm

4 11.40am-12.25pm

A full choice of food and snacks are available in the Restaurant and CafĂŠ during both breaks.

5 12.25-1.10pm

5 12.25-1.10pm

There are many extra-curricular clubs running during the break times and after College. Students will be given the opportunity to express interest in the clubs they wish to join at the Induction Evening. All students are expected to take part in at least one extra-curricular activity.

Break/Lunch 2 1.10-1.45pm

Break/Lunch 2 1.10-1.45pm

6 1.45-2.30pm

6 1.45-2.30pm

7 2.30-3.15pm

7 2.30-3.15pm

Print-outs of time tables with subjects and rooms are issued in September.

Students copy their personal class timetable into their student planner.

They will also receive a homework timetable.

You may like to write their subjects into this timetable for your reference when they are known

Wed 1 (Registration) 8.55-9.15am 2 9.15-10.00am 3 10.00-10.45am Break/Lunch 1 10.45-11.15am 4 11.15am-12.00pm 5 12.00-12.45pm Break/Lunch 2 12.45-1.15pm 6 1.15-2.00pm 7 2.00-2.45pm (Students finish 2.45pm) 8 3.00-4.30pm Staff Training

Thu

Fri

1 (Lesson) 8.55-9.40am

1 (Reading) 8.55-9.40am

2 9.40-10.25am

2 9.40-10.25am

3 10.25-11.10am

3 10.25-11.10am

Break/Lunch 1 11.10-11.40am

Break/Lunch 1 11.10-11.40am

4 4 11.40am-12.25pm 11.40am-12.25pm 5 12.25-1.10pm

5 12.25-1.10pm

Break/Lunch 2 1.10-1.45pm

Break/Lunch 2 1.10-1.45pm

6 1.45-2.30pm

6 1.45-2.30pm

7 2.30-3.15pm

7 2.30-3.15pm

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Getting ready for the College day You can help your child get ready for the College day by: Checking their diary for any messages and signing it once a week Making sure the Squid card has money on it for food and refreshments during the day.

Ensuring they have a space on a shelf or desk where their exercise and text books are kept Making a copy of the timetable and sticking it to the wall or desk Helping them pack their bag properly and removing anything that is not needed for the following day Ensuring they pack their PE kit in a separate bag and only take it to College on days when they have PE Checking their front inside pocket for any letters you should have been given!

Having their uniform ready to avoid a rush in the morning Making sure they get to sleep at a reasonable time and do not play on computers, watch TV, or use their phone.

Making sure they eat breakfast or have breakfast in the College restaurant.

‘The ethos of All Hallows is one that we share and we thoroughly endorse their values’ Year 7 Parent 14

Understanding the Year 7 Curriculum Subjects

Key Stage 3

Business, IT and Enterprise

The formal curriculum is organized into subjects: English, Mathematics, Religious Education, Science, Languages, PE, Performing Arts, Business, IT and Enterprise. In addition to this there is an extensive curriculum outside the classroom in music, drama, dance, sports and outdoor enterprise.

Key Stage 3 at All Hallows lasts two years and provides a solid foundation and preparation for accredited lines of learning, which begin in Year 9.

An annual award ceremony recognizes and rewards student attainment and effort.

A core programme of study in ‘BITE’ develops students' skills and entrepreneurship. Students set up their own mini businesses and reflect on the ethical issues around trade justice and profit. They develop skills in managing finances.

Assessment

Spiritual Development

Languages

Takes place four times a year in every subject and this information is used to make sure students are in appropriate teaching groups. You will receive regular reports. The online parental gateway gives real time information.

Religious, moral and spiritual development is nurtured across the whole curriculum, in RE, residential retreats, away days, assemblies, form prayers, liturgies and social enterprise.

A foundation programme in Year 7 introduces the students to French, German, Spanish, Latin and Mandarin. Students will specialise in two languages in Year 8.

Targets

Extra-curricular

Rural Enterprise

Students are issued with targets for the year. These are based on their KS2 levels and derived from the Fisher Family Trust data. Students should aim to match or better their target by the end of the year.

All year students join one or more extra-curricular activities, which are advertised in early September.

Every subject makes a contribution and the programme is displayed on the website and information screens around the College.

All students experience learning outside the classroom in the College grounds, farm and market gardens.

Setting Students are placed into a half year made up of around a hundred students and then grouped into three or four ability sets for English, Mathematics, Science, RE, Humanities, Music and Enterprise.

This helps students to choose one or two languages to study at GCSE in Year 9.

There are also many clubs and volunteering opportunities such as the Core Group (apple tree planting), Spade Brigade (gardening) and Henterprise (care of chickens).

‘The College’s outstanding curriculum is continually reviewed and developed to meet the needs of students.’ OfSTED 2011

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Additional Needs Additional Needs Students The College follows the current Special Educational Needs Code of Practice, to be reviewed in 2014 by the DfC, and uses the same definition of special educational needs i.e. Students have special educational needs if they have a learning difficulty that calls for special educational provision to be made for them. The College recognises that provision for students with special educational needs is the responsibility of the whole College and that all teachers are teachers of students with special educational needs.

The aims of the special educational needs policy are: • To enable students with special educational needs to have their needs met • To take into account the views of the students with special educational needs • To encourage good communication with parents of children with special educational needs • To facilitate full access to a broad, balanced and relevant education, including the National Curriculum, for students with special educational needs.

Some students receive additional support from a Teaching Assistant in the classroom. Some students may have a modified curriculum. Departments ensure classroom organisation, teaching materials, teaching style and differentiation are such that all students, including those with special educational needs, can learn effectively.

All staff are regularly trained in SEN matters and there is a regular communication of student needs amongst key College personnel.

We have set up a key worker programme for students identified with additional needs. This is an identified member of support staff who acts as an 'advocate or expert' for the identified child. It has an impact on many levels but is very helpful in allowing students to identify a particular person with whom they can communicate their worries, issues, but also successes and achievements. The key worker role promotes sound communication as part of a good and very real partnership between home and College. It allows for immediate access to key staff, and the implementation of strategies that allow for the sound education of your child. It also helps facilitate sound transition across the key stages, and the transfer into secondary education that can be worrying for SEN students and their parents. We very much welcome contact with parents and see it as the best way to help our students achieve their best whilst they are with us.

Inclusion is central to the Christian ethos and we firmly believe in the promotion of an inclusive environment that allows all of our students a chance to succeed. Our most recent Ofsted inspection highlighted the success of our Inclusive practice, and we are accredited with the Inclusion Quality Mark.

Whilst we recognise national programmes for Gifted and Talented students, we believe all our students to be gifted and talented in many different ways. We ensure that everybody has access to excellence and that whilst there are many students who are identified as Gifted and Talented, the learning of all students is given equal priority. As with all students, stretching and challenging tasks are provided for Gifted and Talented students in their subjects, as well as extra-curricular classes and workshops. Their progress is monitored after every half term progress report.

All Hallows has a positive attitude towards all students not just the high achievers and encourages students to try their best.’ Year 7 Parent 16

Coping with homework    

Students in Year 7 are expected to complete between 60 and 90 minutes of homework per night, with an allocation of 30 minutes per subject.

No more than three subjects are allocated per night.

Lesson and Homework timetables are issued in September and can be found on the website.

The College library is available for students to use at breaks and lunchtime and is open before and after College every day.

Students should learn how to REVISE for assessments and examinations following the advice and information given to them by their teachers. Revision is a study skill which should be considered an essential aspect of homework and carried out correctly will enable students to reach their targets.

Supporting your Child’s Learning Here are 10 handy hints by popular request: 1. Check your child’s homework diary every week to see if homework is being entered and completed according to the homework timetable. Sign the diary and write any messages you would like your child to show to the Form Tutor.

2. Ensure your child a quiet place to study where you can keep an eye on how their homework is progressing.

3. Ensure your child has access to computers and internet for research and word processing either at home, in a local library, or at an after-College study club.

4. Agree times with your child when they will do their homework. Check to see if their homework is rushed or lasting for the recommended amounts of time.

5. Encourage attendance at after-College study clubs and booster sessions when they have been arranged by staff.

6. Encourage the use of a variety of research information and encourage the use of the College and local libraries, as well as e-learning packages like "I AM LEARNING" available via our website.

7. Monitor the use of the internet during homework sessions to ensure your child is focusing on the tasks set rather than gaming or chatting. One strategy some parents have is to match time spent on homework with time allowed for games and online chatting!

8. Praise and reward your child for completing homework on time and to their expected target levels. Ask them about their homework pieces after they have been seen and marked.

9. If you have any concerns about homework or any other aspect of your child’s learning, contact either the subject leader or your child’s form tutor.

10. Remember that homework is a form of frequent independent study, which has been shown to improve classroom performance and future chances of educational success.

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College Uniform Parents, teachers and students work together to ensure that the highest possible standards are maintained in all areas of College life at All Hallows. A student’s willingness to wear the correct uniform accompanies an attitude to College, which usually maximises success in learning and personal development. It also indicates a family’s commitment to the values and ethos of the College, which is crucial to the growth and development of our young people.

There are a number of good reasons for having a College uniform: · It is a sign of commitment, pride and a badge of belonging to our College · It is a way of avoiding an expensive ‘fashion contest’ in College · It keeps young people focused on their studies

All items of uniform are available from: Finesse, Mill Street, Macclesfield 01625 616986 Trutex, King Edward Rd, Macclesfield 01625 500552

· It stops differences emerging between ‘ those who have and those who have not’ The uniform, which is clearly described in the policy, is compulsory for all students. The Principal and his staff reserve the right to determine acceptable standards of dress and appearance with reference to this uniform policy. The aim is to help students learn that dress codes are a fact of life, and that ‘dressing for success’ is a good preparation for adult and working life.

All Hallows uniform is strictly enforced with rewards for students who ‘wear the correct uniform in the correct way’ and sanctions for those who refuse to conform. [See the Discipline for Learning Policy]. In rare cases where students arrive in College incorrectly dressed, parents will be contacted with a request to bring the correct items to College or there will be an expectation that loan items will be worn if available. Parents should provide their child with a written note if there is a good reason why (s)he is temporarily not wearing the full College uniform. In cases of hardship, parents or carers should contact their child’s Year Learning Leader for confidential advice.

All items, with the exception of the College scarf, are compulsory. It is expected that full College uniform is worn correctly during the College day and on journeys to and from College.

We are confident that our parents will always understand the need to support the College to make sure that our high standards of uniform are maintained. Please do not allow your child to persuade you to buy non-uniform items, as this will cause unnecessary expense and heartache. As the Principal has said on many occasions, it is vital that we as adults (College and parents working in partnership) help our children to grow and mature by setting clear boundaries of behaviour.

‘Inspectors found that students had smart appearance and that the College’s ‘dress for success’ policy was helping to maintain a business-like learning environment.’ OfSTED 2011 18

GIRLS 



 



Blazer - Black with red lining and preembroidered College badges. Worn at all times in, around and to/from College. Eco Blazer available from College Shop (recommended for Y7)

 Shirt - Plain white shirt with collar and top button. Must have a collar and top button  suitable for wearing a tie (long or short sleeved shirt may be worn). A plain white tee shirt may be worn under the shirt.

College Bag - Bag bearing the BEC logo.

Tie - Plain red clip-on tie with College badge.

PE UNIFORM

 Skirt - Tartan kilt in College colours. All skirts should be purchased below the  knee to allow for growth.

OR Trousers - Black. Plain and tailored  with a waist band and the College logo.







Rain Jacket - Black rain jacket with  embroidered College badge. To be worn when necessary over College blazer. This garment should be regarded as the  overcoat. Coats should be removed on entry to the building.

Shoes - Black, sturdy and low heeled.

Please note that fabric shoes, pumps or  boots are not acceptable.

Socks / Tights - Black knee-length socks or plain black opaque tights. No other  colours, not patterned tights.

Jumper - Plain mid-grey ‘V’ necked jumper with College badge. The jumper is compulsory.

Scarf - Plain dark scarf. No fashion  scarves. No football scarves, any caps or other headgear.

PE Shorts - Black with embroidered College badge (new style for Y7).

Polo Shirt - Red with embroidered College badge.

collar

and

Fleece Top - Black fleece with embroidered College badge. Worn for outdoor lessons in cold weather.

Track Pants - Black with College badge.

Worn in cold weather.

PE Kit Bag – Black with College logo

Socks - Compulsory: white ankle socks Optional: Black/Red socks for football and hockey only.

Training Shoes - Mainly plain white or black. Must be trainers, not canvas or boots.

OPTIONAL Shin Guards & Gum Shield - For use in competitive contact sports e.g. Hockey, Rugby, Football.

Undergarments - or “skins” if worn must be plain red, black or white. In extreme weather conditions plain black hats and gloves may be worn with the permission of the teacher.

Additional Notes for Girls 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Make-up, including fake tans, false nails, and nail varnish must not be worn: The College reserves the right to request removal.

No jewellery allowed (wrist watch permissible but not in PE): The College reserves the right to request removal and to confiscate if necessary.

No responsibility is accepted for the loss of any confiscated items.

No trainers to be worn in, around or to/from College: They are not acceptable for College wear and must not be worn, except in PE. Hairstyles: Extremes of hair style and hair colouring are not acceptable. Hair fashion accessories are not to be worn. If hair bands are worn, they should be black.

Body Piercing: Nose studs and other forms of body piercing are not acceptable.

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BOYS 





Blazer - Black with red lining and preembroidered College badges. Worn at all times in, around and to/from College.

Eco Blazer available from College Shop (recommended for Y7) Shirt - Plain white shirt with collar and  top button. Must have a collar and top button suitable for wearing a tie (long or  short sleeved shirt may be worn). A plain white tee shirt may be worn under the shirt.

Football Socks – Two pairs of football socks. Black, with red trim and College initials.

Football Boots – for playing Rugby and Football outdoors Training Shoes - Mainly plain white or black. Must be trainers, not canvas or boots.

Scarf - Plain dark scarf. No fashion OPTIONAL scarves. No football scarves, any caps  Shin Guards & Gum Shield - For use in or other headgear. competitive contact sports e.g. Hockey, Rugby, Football.

PE UNIFORM Undergarments - or “skins” if worn must be  Rugby Shirt - Red, embroidered with plain red, black or white.

In extreme College badge (new style for Y7) weather conditions plain black hats and gloves may be worn with the permission of  Football Shorts Black with the teacher. embroidered College badge.

Additional Notes for Boys  T Shirt - Red with embroidered College 1. No jewellery allowed (wrist watch permissible but badge. not in PE): The College reserves the right to request



Tie - Plain red clip on tie with College badge.



Trousers - Black. Plain and tailored with a waist band. Black belt if required.



Shoes – Black and sturdy. Please note that fabric shoes, pumps or boots are not acceptable.



Socks – Plain black socks. No other  colours, not patterned.



Rain Jacket - Black rain jacket with  embroidered College badge. To be worn when necessary over College blazer.

This should be regarded as the  overcoat. Coats should be removed on entry to the building.  College Bag - Bag bearing the BEC logo.

Jumper - Plain mid-grey ‘V’ necked jumper with College badge. The jumper  is compulsory.

removal and to confiscate if necessary.

No responsibility is accepted for the loss of any confiscated items.

Track Pants - Black with College badge.

Worn in cold weather.

PE Kit Bag – black with College logo

2.

No trainers to be worn in, around or to/from College: They are not acceptable for College wear and must not be worn, except in PE.

3.

Hairstyles: Extremes of hair style and hair colouring are not acceptable.

4.

Body Piercing: Nose studs and other forms of body piercing are not acceptable.

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Being equipped for learning Students should have the following basic equipment for learning: A check-list for September Tick

Items

Pencil case with pen(plus spare), pencil, ruler, eraser Calculator, protractor, set square and compass English dictionary Language translation dictionary (French-English / Spanish-English / German-English / Mandarin-English/ Latin/English appropriate to language studied) Bible (a modern translation, Good News or Jerusalem Bible) Design Technology apron (obtained in College) Student Diary (issued by College in September)

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Commonly used prayers The Lord’s Prayer Our Father, Who art in Heaven, Hallowed by Thy Name, Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, on Earth, as it is in Heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who have trespassed against us, And lead us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil. Amen.

College Morning Prayer O God, Our Father, Whose love has made us all one family in Christ, Into Your hands with Him, We commend our lives.

May He live in us and work through us In all we do today through the power of the Holy Spirit dwelling in our lives.

Amen.

Hail Mary Hail Mary, full of grace, The Lord is with thee.

Blessed art thou amongst women, And blessed is the fruit of Thy womb, Jesus.

Holy Mary, Mother of God, Pray for us sinners now And at the hour of our death.

Amen.

At The End of The Day Loving God, I thank you for having given me life, and for having made me to know, love, and serve you all the days of my life and for eternity.

I thank you for my faith and for the day that I am completing.

I ask your pardon for any hurt I may have caused, or anything I have left undone that I should have done.

I resolve to make tomorrow a better day.

Be with me as I live out the rest of today and return to my home and family. Amen.

Students and staff are also encouraged to reflect on a spiritual theme everyday.

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Keeping the Student Planner All students are provided with a free planner / diary at the start of the academic year. We ask students to record their homework here and staff often the planner as a way to communicate messages to parents. Please do keep a regular eye on the planner. Inside it you will find plenty of useful information. Students can also earn merits that are recorded in the planner and keep track of their academic performance.

Students record homework and date due.

Form Tutor signs the planner weekly

Parent / carer signs the planner weekly

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Attendance and Punctuality The College positively encourages attendance. The link between attendance, academic achievement and future success are well known and regularly communicated to students.

Full attendance is highly recommended but the College does understand that, on occasions, a student may have to be absent. We request notice in advance where possible of any absence through the absence line by phoning the main switchboard. This would include attendance at funerals or other events. Absence through illness should be notified with a phone call on the first day on the absence line. This may have to be followed, in some cases, with medical evidence.

If a student has a medical / dental appointment during the College day, they must produce their appointment card or a note from their parent / carer. Students should sign out at the student office prior to leaving College and sign back in on their return. If the student has an early appointment, prior to College starting or if they are not returning to College after the appointment as it is late in the day, the parent / carer must inform College on the absence line.

Holidays in term time must be avoided and will, in most cases, be classed as an unauthorised absence. Holidays requests should be made in writing, in advance, to the Principal.

Students should aim for 100% attendance over a year. Attendance that falls under 97% will be closely monitored by pastoral staff as well as senior leaders and, where necessary, support from the Educational Welfare Service will be used. If our Family Support Worker can offer support in any way please let us know.

Students should be in College by 8.50am each day. If a student is late arriving in College for any reason they must sign in at the Student Office. Persistent lateness can also result in the involvement of the Educational Welfare Officer as well as internal sanctions. Fixed Penalty Notices for poor attendance and punctuality are used in the College, however, we try to positively encourage attendance across all years.

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College Restaurant and Cafe Breakfast - Full English Breakfast, Cereals Sample Main Meal

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Main

Lasagne and garlic bread

Sausage and Mash

Chicken noodle

Beef cobbler

stir fry

Pots and veg

Deep Fried Fish chips and peas

Gnocci Pomodorro & garlic bread

Vegi sausage and mash

Vegetarian

Vegi Noodle Stir fry Cheese Omelette

Pasta Bake

Pots and Veg

Grab and Go 

Gino's pasta

beefburgers



salad bar

pizza



jackets and fillings

selection of cold desserts



hot filled baguettes

yoghurts, fruit and veg bags



hot filled wraps

homemade cakes



selection of panini

drinks



cheese and bacon bagels

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Lunch arrangements Our College has teamed up with Innovate, our catering partners and sQuid, to introduce a new cashless catering system, an easy way for students to pay.

Students and staff can now use a pre-pay contactless smart card to pay for food and drink at the restaurant/cafe. It's convenient, safe and secure, and can be topped-up online so you don't have to bring cash to College.

Students can purchase a meal which suits their individual requirements. Portions are individually priced and a reasonable meal may be purchased for £2.25 Students may bring a packed lunch and dining facilities are made available for them.

All students stay on the College site, without exception, at lunchtimes.

Free College Meals If your child is entitled to a free meal, their entitlement will automatically transfer to this College. The sQuidcard will be topped up daily with the FSM entitlement - £ 2.25 at present.

If a student is waiting for a replacement card he/she will be issued with a token to receive their free meal. The same will happen should they forget or misplace their sQuidcard on occasion.

There is a direct link from College website – Parents – Apply for Free College Meals.

Telephone: 0300 123 5012

All Year 7 students will be handed a letter from Innovate – addressed to Parent/Guardian.

It will have : -

New sQuidcard – with a student name

-

A letter of introduction and information how to register new sQuidcard

-

Step-by Step guide how to use the card

Card damaged, lost or stolen – please block the account as soon as possible so no one can use the money on the account. You cannot order a new card using your internet account. Please contact College and a nominated member of staff will arrange for a new card to arrive in College - all the money on the old card will be automatically transferred to a new card.

Please note - that until new card arrives student will need to bring a packed lunch or money to purchase a meal.

Further information can be found visiting All Hallows website – Parents –sQuid.

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Information and Communications Technology Before being issued with a user name and password all of our students are requires to read and sign the College 'Acceptable Usage Policy' College ICT equipment should only be used for educational purposes directly linked with curriculum courses and other College approved activities, e.g. careers advice or higher education choices.

All users of College ICT equipment, both students and staff, must agree by signing the Acceptable Usage Policy. This is standard practice in any organisation where ICT is used.

Why is there a policy?

Any large computer network is a highly complex system requiring a considerable amount of maintenance. The points below are designed to ensure that the network is always available and working. Users must accept that a network with hundreds of client computers has to have more restrictions than a home computer.

Expectations of users 1. All users of the network (whether using desktop computers or laptops) are expected to use common sense, to follow the more general College rules and to obey the laws of the United Kingdom.

2. You are responsible for your individual account and must never allow anyone else to use it. You should never divulge your password to another person. Students will be asked to change their password regularly.

3. You must not download or save large files unless absolutely necessary as this restricts others' use of the network.

4. You should check your e-mail frequently and delete unwanted messages promptly.

Privacy You should expect only limited privacy in the contents of your personal files and e-mail on the College network.

As a general rule, keep nothing on the system you would feel uncomfortable justifying in front of any teacher, your parents or other authority.

All network activity is monitored and logged.

All Internet traffic is monitored and logged.

E-Safety protection software exists on a number of levels to prevent access to inappropriate material.

Specific Unauthorised Activities • You must not make deliberate attempts to disrupt the computer system or destroy data.

• You should not attempt to go beyond your authorised access. This includes: attempting to log in through another person's account or sending e-mail while masquerading as another person.

• You must not use any facility to participate in any form of cyber-bullying. You must not engage in personal, prejudicial or discriminatory attacks. You should respect the privacy of any message sent to you and not re-send it to others without permission.

• The use of social networking sites such as Facebook, Bebo,MySpace and YouTube is not permitted.

• The use of chat rooms such as MSN is not permitted.

• You must not use indecent, obscene, offensive or threatening language.

• You must not post anything on the Internet which identifies the College with unacceptable opinions or activities, or which would bring the College into disrepute. This includes using computer facilities

outside College to publish such opinions.

• You must not attempt to access material that is profane or obscene, that advocates illegal acts, violence or discrimination towards other people.

If you mistakenly access inappropriate material, you should tell a teacher immediately. This will protect you against the accusation that you have intentionally accessed this material.

• You must not plagiarise works that you find on the Internet. Plagiarism is taking the ideas or writings of others and presenting them as if they were your own.

• You must respect copyright. You must not use the Internet to download illegal software, pirated music or images.

Sanctions All network activity is logged. Depending on the severity of the offence, one or more of the following sanctions maybe applied if a student is found to have broken any of the above rules: • a formal warning • suspension of e-mail/internet access • suspension of computer system account • debarment from use of the College computer rooms • formal College detentions • temporary or permanent exclusion from College.

Students must sign the Acceptable Use Policy Statement at the back of this handbook on the signature page and return it to College.

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Anti-bullying Students feel extremely safe and speak appreciatively of the considerable efforts made by staff to ensure their health and well-being. OfSTED 2011 This statement from OfSTED reflects the fact that All Hallows has a zero tolerance of bullying. If your son/daughter ever feels bullied they must speak to their Form Tutor, Year Learning Leader or other member of staff. All information will be dealt with sensitively. The College also has a confidential bully report email if a student finds it difficult to speak out or if a friend wants to report something: bullying@allhallowslearning.org.uk .Year Learning Leaders also run a daily ‘Drop In’ session at break times for a student to talk about any issue. IN ORDER TO REDUCE OPPORTUNITIES FOR CYBER BULLYING OUTSIDE COLLEGE PARENTS SHOULD ENSURE THAT ACCESS TO SOCIAL NETWORK SITES IS STRICTLY MONITORED AND THAT CHILDREN RESTRICT THEIR TELEPHONE NUMBER TO PROVEN AND TRUSTED FRIENDS. (For further details see policy on website) Mobile Phones Students are allowed to carry mobile phones to and from College but they should be switched off and out of sight (in their inside pocket) from 8.45am to 3.15pm.

Mobile phones, if seen or used, will be confiscated and kept in the College safe until a parent/carer collects them. There are NO exemptions to this rule. Mobile phones must always be handed over on request and the College reserves the right to ban a student from bringing the item to College if (s)he fails to comply with the rule. Parents who wish to get urgent messages to their children during the College day should telephone the College reception.

Transport The College will continue to ensure that there is an efficient transport system to All Hallows through Its special partnership with Bostocks coaches. All students, regardless of faith background or age, travel to All Hallows for less than £2.00 per day. There are also further discounts for siblings. All children (both Catholic and others) who attend St Mary's (Congleton), St Benedict's (Handforth), St Paul's (Poynton) and who live more than 3 miles away from College will be entitled to a full refund of 100% at the end of Y7. (On submission of receipts to All Hallows Finance Department and for All Hallows nominated transport only). The Local Authority will continue to subsidise transport for students in receipt of free school meals and parents should apply directly to the Local Authority. The College has established a bursary fund to which parents may apply. The College will assist in arranging staged payments with Bostocks and can also offer grants (up to 50%) to some families In receipt of working tax credit. (Contact All Hallows Finance Office for the "Special Circumstances Transport Assistance Form").

Information on the bus routes can be downloaded from our website. Enquiries regarding transport provision or bursaries should be directed to our College Business Manager, Mrs Connolly, j.connolly@allhallows.org.uk. Tickets can be purchased from Bostocks Coaches direct.

Behaviour on the buses is the responsibility of parents but the College does all it can by way of investigation and sanctions to assist the process of maintaining good order. Sanctions imposed can include withdrawing the right to travel on College transport, meaning the student has to make their own way to College using public transport. Sixth form students act as bus monitors.

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Policies The following policies are available on the website and are recommended reading: Attendance, Behaviour, Homework, Uniform, Anti Bullying, Charging and Remissions, Special Needs, Medicine Advice, Complaints.

In the event of an emergency closure EXTREME WEATHER (Snow I Ice) These are the procedures we have in place for extreme weather conditions. The Principal takes advice from the Business Manager and then makes the decision as to whether or not a closure is necessary.

A decision to CLOSE will be announced on local radio, on their website and on the College website.

If no announcement is made, then the College is OPEN.

Radio: Silk FM (106.9 FM) and Century FM [105.4 FM] (also on DAB Digital Radio) Online: http://www.centuryradionorthwest.co.uk/ (scroll down the homepage and look for "College Closures") Please do not attempt to telephone the College as this will block the telephone lines, which will be used for emergencies.

If the College remains open, your child will need to make every attempt to get to their usual bus stop on time. If the bus fails to turn up, your child should return home after 30 minutes waiting time.

In the event of heavy snowfall during the College day, any decision to close early will be announced using the means above. Students are not allowed to use mobile 'phones whilst in College, and we request that you do not rely on individual messages that come to you from any source other than the official announcements. If the College closes during the normal College day, parents will also be informed by text-message or voicemail.

If it is necessary to close the College for more than one day, parents will be informed again, through the College website, our Twitter feed and local radio.

The College will remain open unless the weather conditions present an obvious danger to safety.

Please ensure that your child's attendance record supports our expectations of high achievement and success. Any absences taken without an official closure are recorded as 'unauthorised'.

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TERM DATES 2013-2014 INSERVICE TRAINING DAYS (WHEN STUDENTS DO NOT ATTEND) Monday 2 September 2013, Monday 24 February 2014, Tuesday 25 February 2014, Tuesday 22 April 2014, Friday 23 May 2014, Wednesday 23 July 2014

TERM

COLLEGE OPENS TO STUDENTS

COLLEGE CLOSES TO STUDENTS

Michaelmas

Tuesday 3 September 2013

Friday 18 October 2013

Christmas

Monday 28 October 2013

Thursday 19 December 2013

Epiphany

Monday 6 January 2014

Friday 14 February 2014

Easter

Monday 24 February 2014

Friday 4 April 2014

Whitsun

Tuesday 22 April 2014

Friday 23 May 2014

Trinity

Monday 2 June 2014

Wednesday 23 July 2014

NB. *Tuesday September 2013 College opens for years 7, 12 and 13 only. Wednesday 4 September 2013 College opens for all students years 7-13.

Parents should check our website for other Key dates throughout the year.

(Parents should not take students out of College for holidays during term-time. SUCH ABSENCES WILL NOT BE AUTHORISED Any requests for leave of absence due to exceptional circumstances or for qualifying educational activity should be made to The Principal, Mr Billings.)

Students achieving 100% attendance will receive certificates half termly. The College target for every student is a minimum of 97% attendance.

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COLLEGE CAMPUS MAP WELCOME

31

Governors and Trustees Chair of Governors Mrs E O’Sullivan Vice-Chair of Governors Mr J Knight Foundation Governors Mrs J Bailey Mrs H Evans Mrs J Feely Mr J Jones Revd Fr W Kilkenny Mrs C Moss Mrs C Neary Mrs E O’Sullivan Mr J Tomkinson Mr J Knight

Community Governors Mrs L Brandwood Mr P Spedding Staff Governors Mrs A Heaton Mr P Nickson Parent Governors Ms A Caine Mrs D Franklin Principal and Governor Mr A S Billings Clerk to the Governors Mrs C Creager

Trustees: Rt Rev. Mark Davies Bishop of Shrewsbury Diocese of Shrewsbury Colleges Commission Mr A Scott, Curial Offices, 2 Park Road South, Prenton, Wirral CH43 4UX Foundation Governors are nominated by Diocese of Shrewsbury Colleges Commission.

Parent Governors are elected by ballot and should a vacancy occur parents will be informed.

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Advice for Parents as Partners The following are some tips and ideas for how parents/carers can support their children in their learning at secondary College. This is not intended to be a complete list and should you have any further suggestions we would love to hear from you!

As a parent or carer, you are your child’s first and most important teacher. When you speak you are a language teacher. When you help your child recognise colour and shapes you are teaching reading skills. Before your child goes to College you probably also teach Maths, Science, Human Studies, Art and Physical Education.

Even after your child enters All Hallows you continue to be the most important influence on their life. Remember, most teachers see children only a few hours a day. Parents are constantly teaching their children. The College will teach children a lot of important knowledge, but parents play a critical teaching role. We know that children can learn even more when the College and parents work together as a team.

This section of the handbook suggests ways you can help us to support your child’s learning. You may already be following many of these suggestions. Some may not be appropriate for your child. They are intended to get you started on home learning activities.

Stay Interested – We want you to feel as close to All Hallows as you hopefully felt to your child’s primary school.

Be visible - Attend the Parents’ Evenings so that you can get to know the teachers and your child feels supported. Our records of attendance at parents evenings show a clear link between parents' support and young peoples' success.

Consider being a Volunteer - Parent volunteers enable the College to grow as a community provide many extras for our young people. There are many ways to do this: You could consider joining the Parents Association, helping with the College farm, supporting reading, speaking to students about your work, supporting fund raising events, to name only a few ideas!

Be an engaged parent - The College offers many opportunities throughout the year for parents to learn about various educational issues such as Dyslexia and E-safety. These events are advertised on the College website.

SUPPORT THE COLLEGE Both parents and teachers want the same thing for children - the best possible education. When we all work together we make a strong team. Here are some ideas for helping the College do a better job: • See that your child attends College regularly • Monitor your child’s subject books and Student Planner • Support the College in its efforts to maintain proper discipline • Be aware of what your child is learning in College

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• Let the Form Tutor know if your child has any problems outside College that might affect his or her College work • If you have any concerns or questions do share them with us • If you have any suggestions or ideas do let us know SELF-CONFIDENCE Let your child know that you have confidence in them, so they believe in their own worth and are more able to face the challenges of College life.

GOOD DISCIPLINE Try to establish clear, consistent rules for behaviour at home. This helps students adjust to specific rules for the classroom or College.

GOOD DIET One important way to help your child in College is to make sure they eat well. Children need food energy to perform well. Try to provide a healthy diet that includes lots of vegetables, fruit, cereals, milk products, meat, poultry and fish. Ensure they drink lots of water and avoid fizzy drinks. As part of our curriculum throughout all years, we examine some of the issues around healthy lifestyles. We believe that good health is vitally important and depends not just on a good diet but also on exercise during the day. Encourage your child to play sport, ride a bike, skip, etc.

GOOD SLEEP HABITS Sleep is vital to the health, well being and educational success of children. The evidence shows that the successful students have parents who set good bedtime routines and ensure their children get enough sleep.

7-12 Years: 10 - 11 hours per day. Most 12 year olds go to bed between 8pm to 9pm.

12-18 Years: 8 - 9 hours per day. Teenagers needs will vary and they may actually need more than previous years. Parents should help to limit the social pressures which conspire to prevent their teenagers getting the proper amount of sleep.

GOOD READING Help your child become a good reader. Whether your child reads fluently depends partly on you. If a family encourages and enjoys reading children are more likely to read well and often. Certain things influence children’s success and interest in reading, such as wide knowledge and thoughtful talking. Thought-provoking questions stimulate curiosity.  Encourage your child to think about past and future events. Help your child hold lengthy conversations to reflect on their experiences.  Television, in moderation, could inspire children to read the book about the dramatisations they watch.  Show interest and become involved in your child’s reading.  Try to give a feeling of “can do” confidence.  Children who are good readers can make very significant progress in all subjects. As a parent you can encourage your son or daughter by reading to your child (if appropriate) or encouraging them to read.  Let your child see you reading. Let them know how important it is for the future. You could also make regular visits to the library.  Reading well will help your child make progress.

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WRITING Help your child become a better writer. Clearly, writing is something we all do. It stimulates thought, enables us to communicate with friends and helps us express our feelings. To write well we must: • think clearly • have sufficient time • read to become a better writer • have an interest that we can write about.

To help your child to write well and enable them to find it easier or more enjoyable, provide a place to write. Have paper, pencils, etc. available.

Respond to your child’s ideas but don’t write it for them.

• Do say something good about it - such as “it is interesting, thoughtful or accurate”.

• You could write together, for example a business letter or order. This would show the value of writing in the adult world.

• Encouraging them to make lists will help your child to become organised.

• The ability to express thoughts clearly in writing is an essential skill. As writing is based on spoken language, you could talk with and listen to your child at home. As you share experiences and talk about them you might help your child develop a love of words.

• Let your child see you writing. As they see you correct or adapt your work your child will learn the importance of drafting and revision to ensure good writing.

• Encourage your child to write. Perhaps it could be illustrated so that the writing becomes a treasured gift for relatives or friends.

HELP YOUR CHILD DO BETTER IN COLLEGE Research has clearly shown that behaviour and attitude affect success in the classroom. As parents, you can help to teach your child how to: • pay attention • be interested in their work • learn and remember • study and know how to get help when necessary PAYING ATTENTION Children can learn the knack of paying attention. Help them think positively so that they don’t say “It’s hopeless”. Encourage them to think they “can do it”. Don’t let them give up. A useful saying might be: “Quitters don’t win and winners don’t quit”. Encourage them to answer and ask questions.

This helps to focus attention.

TAKING AN INTEREST Learning is a joint effort - teachers, parents and students working together. Children must believe that the hours they spend studying (and the effort they put in) make the difference between success and failure. Do take an interest in your child’s work and results. Discuss them with your child.

Reward your child for improvement. Stress the benefits of doing well in College.

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REMEMBERING Research has shown that success in College is determined not just by intelligence but by the strategies children use to master facts and ideas.

Understanding a subject doesn’t just happen. Children need to be interested. Encourage your child to find an answer to a problem or to draw conclusions. Help your child to discover the main idea or most important point in the material they are studying. Help your child make up a mnemonic (a memory aid) to remember lists or facts e.g. “Richard Of York Gave Battle In Vain” – ROYGBIV – for the colours of the rainbow.

YOU CAN HELP BY...

• Providing a quiet, well lit place for work. A desk is ideal but a corner on the kitchen table will do.

• Help your child to create a schedule that is flexible but allows study on a weekly basis.

• Make sure your child has pens, dictionary, etc.

• Provide encouragement and support but most of all be available.

• There is a time when television can help but do ensure that your child actively watches programmes and does not just sit in front of the television.

• Talk about the programme when it has finished. Have plenty of books around.

• Encourage them to study by reading a little yourself first so that you can help and take an interest.

• Your child cannot remember everything so help them write notes as a summary of the important points. This helps memory and categorising.

• Encourage your child to prepare for tests by spacing study over several days.

• Help your child look forward to College as a happy place. Always talk about College in a positive way.

• Most of all - talk to your child.

Enjoy your child learning and have fun helping them to do their best: by working together we can all help to make that happen.

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PRIVACY NOTICE FOR STUDENTS Privacy Notice - Data Protection Act 1998 We All Hallows Catholic College are a data controller for the purposes of the Data Protection Act. We collect information from you and may receive information about you from your previous school and the Learning Records Service. We hold this personal data and use it to: • • • •

Support your teaching and learning; Monitor and report on your progress; Provide appropriate pastoral care, and Assess how well your school is doing.

This information includes your contact details, national curriculum assessment results, attendance information and personal characteristics such as your ethnic group, any special educational needs and relevant medical information. If you are enrolling for post 14 qualifications we will be provided with your unique learner number (ULN) by the Learning Records Service and may also obtain from them details of any learning or qualifications you have undertaken.

We will not give information about you to anyone outside the school without your consent unless the law and our rules allow us to.

We are required by law to pass some information about you to the Department for Education (DfE) and, in turn, this will be available for the use(s) of the Local Authority.

If you want to see a copy of the information about you that we hold and/or share, please contact the College Business Manager, Mrs J Connolly, on telephone number 01625 426138.

If you require more information about how the Local Authority (LA) and/or DfE store and use your information, then please go to the following websites: http://www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/council_and_democracy/council_information/data_protection.aspx http://media.education.gov.uk/assets/files/doc/w/what%20the%20department%20does%20with%20data%20on%20pupils%20and%20children.doc http://www.education.gov.uk/researchandstatistics/childrenandyoungpeople/a0064391/who-the-department-passes-pupil-data-to

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If you are unable to access these websites we can send you a copy of this information. Please contact the LA or DfE as follows: Public Communications Unit Department for Education Sanctuary Buildings Great Smith Street London SW1P 3BT website: www.education.gov.uk email: http://www.education.gov.uk/help/contactus tel: 0370 000 2288 Julie Gibbs The Data Protection Officer Cheshire East Council Westfields Middlewich Road Sandbach Cheshire CW11 1HZ email: julie.gibbs@cheshireeast.gov.uk tel: 01270 686606 In addition for Secondary and Special Schools Once you are aged 13 or over, we are required by law to pass on certain information to the provider of youth support services in your area. This is the local authority support service for young people aged 13 to 19 in England. We must provide the address of you and your parents (and your date of birth) and any further information relevant to the support services' role.

However, until you are aged 16 or older, your parent(s) can ask that no information beyond your name, address and date of birth (and their name and address) be passed on to the youth services provider. This right transfers to you on your 16th birthday. Please inform the College Business Manager if this is what you or your parents wish. For more information about young peoples’ services, please go to the Directgov Young People page at www.direct.gov.uk/en/YoungPeople/index.htm or the LA website shown above.

In addition as a Catholic College, data is sent annually to the Diocese via the Catholic Education Services Census Return. Also for Catholic students only lists are provided of your name and address to your local parish church. Full details of these returns are available from the Office Manager, Mrs S Skelton.

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Safeguarding Statement All Hallows Catholic College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We are fully committed to ensuring that consistent effective safeguarding procedures are in place to support families, children and staff at school. All concerns are passed through the members of staff who are trained as “Designated Child Protection Officers” in College. All posts are offered subject to agreeing to sign the Catholic Education Service contract of employment and satisfactory CRB checks and proof Cause for concern All staff are asked to report any causes for concern to the Designated Child Protection Officers using a written pro-forma. Any concerns will be shared with parents/carers as early as possible, as more often than not there are extremely reasonable explanations for the concern. Concerns may range from children being visibly upset to persistent lateness to children “disclosing” concerns.

The Safeguarding Lead is: Assistant Principal Mrs Bill, With deputies as follows: Assistant Principal Mrs Garvey Assistant Principal Mr Blades Assistant Principal Mrs Connolly Year Learning Leaders The Safeguarding Governor is: Mrs Neary Our Safeguarding and Child Protection policies are available on the College web site.

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Name of student (block capitals) ……………………………………………………… Date of Birth ………………

SIGNATURES PAGE PLEASE REMOVE THIS PAGE CAREFULLY AND HAND INTO THE COLLEGE DURING THE NEW PARENTS WELCOME EVENING OR AS SOON AS POSSIBLE THEREAFTER.

SIMS IN TOUCH TEXT MESSAGING I give permission for the College to contact me via text in order to receive messages pertaining to my child/children about attendance, meetings, Parents' Evenings etc.

BEHAVIOUR POLICY I confirm that we have read and discussed the behaviour policy available on the College website with our son / daughter. Paper copy available on request.

Signed …………………………………………….. (parent/carer)

Signed ………………………………………... (parent/carer) Date…………………………

Date…………………………

PERMISSIONS FOR PHOTOGRAPHS I give permission for my child/children(s) photograph(s) to be used in the learning environment for illustrative purposes and to promote the College e.g. prospectus, website.

ACCEPTABLE USE OF ICT POLICY FOR STUDENTS I agree to abide by the All Hallows Catholic College Acceptable Usage Policy

Signed …………………………………………….. (parent/carer)

Date…………………………

Name of Student……………………………. Signature……………………………….

Form……………………………

Date…………………………

GENERAL CONSENT FOR LOCAL TRIPS During the academic year we take students off site, on local field visits within our catchment area, to represent the College, to study, or to attend Mass in the local Church. Students may walk or travel by coach, College mini-bus, bus or train and will be appropriately supervised. We need your consent in order to do this.

PARENT/CARER'S NAME………………………………………………..

I give permission for my child to go on local trips from the College during the time that they are a student at All Hallows Catholic College.

WORK NUMBER…………………………………………………………

Signed …………………………………………….. (parent/carer)

MOBILE NUMBER……………………………………………………….

HOME NUMBER…………………………………………………………

EMAIL ADDRESS………………………………………………………….

Date…………………………

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