Parent's Handbook 2022-2023

Introduction from the Headteacher

In our Ofsted inspection in November 2021 Ofsted reported that, “Pupilsaresafeand happy.Theywelcomethepersonaland academicsupportthatteachersprovide.Pupils respondwelltoteachers’highexpectations. Theyachievewellandmanygoontoattend topuniversities.Pupilsappreciatethe considerationgiventotheirmentalhealth. Theysaythatschoolislikeasecondhome”.

Central Foundation continues to be recognised as a ‘good’ school with significant strengths. We are a school that continues to develop at every level; we never accept that being ‘good’ is good enough and continue to demonstrate our capacity to be outstanding in every area.

At Central Foundation, we believe that all students should be given the opportunity to excel in all aspects of school life, not just in their academic studies.

Dear Parents and Carers,

I would like to welcome you and your daughter to Central Foundation Girls’ School.

We are a large, oversubscribed and inclusive 11 18 inner city girls’ school in Bow. We provide an exciting, broad and balanced curriculum for all of our students and weensure that our programmes ofstudy meet the needs of all learners.

We are a school that firmly believes that the education of young people is also contingent upon providing excellent pastoral support and an extensive range of extra curricular opportunities; we are committed to our vision of ‘transforming lives through a central education’. Therefore, students who attend our school receive an exceptionally high quality of education and gain qualifications that place them as some of the top performing students in the country.

We have an excellent reputation locally and nationally for high attainment and pupil progress. Our GCSE results consistently place us in the top 10% of schools for pupil progress at both GCSE and A Level, and we are a leading school in Tower Hamlets. Many of our headline results at GCSE and A Level demonstrate we are one of the top performing schools in the borough.

As a result of our consistent successes, not only is the school oversubscribed at transition and at entry to our Sixth Form, our school is also designated as a Leading Edge school and is able to provide support and advice for other schools across London.

As active members of our school community, students are given opportunities to take part in a huge variety of cultural and sporting events, both in school and out of school. We also encourage all our students to apply for the many student leadership projects and initiatives run by the school and to join in our amazing after school and holiday programme known as Central+.

We also operate a ‘laptop loan scheme’ for up to 24 students in Year 7 each year, who loan a laptop for the duration of their time at Central Foundation. Details about applications to the scheme are available in September.

Welcome to our school and to our rich and diverse community. We know that in joining us your daughter will become part of a community of active learners who are challenged and supported to become confident, high achieving young people, well equipped to become leaders of the future.

Ms C Prince Headteacher

Mission Statement

TRANSFORMING CHALLENGING VALUING EMPOWERING

Transform lives through our high expectations and high standards for all Challenge and support each other through our passion for learning

Value all members of our community and celebrate success

Empower ourselves to be a positive, creative, innovative and inspirational community

Key contacts for parents

There may be times when you need to contact the school. All staff can be contacted via the school telephone number at Harley Grove (main building).

School telephone number: 020 8981 1131

Fax number: 020 8983 0188

E mail: welcome@central.towerhamlets.sch.uk Website: www.central.towerhamlets.sch.uk

Headteacher

Ms C Prince

Deputy Headteachers

Ms S Baldwin

Ms S El Damanawi

Mr B Rackstraw

Attendance &

Mr K Aziz

Ms S Khatun

Attendance & Welfare Advisor

Mr A Taveres

Parent Outreach Worker

Ms A Begum

Home School Support Worker

Mr K Ali

Community Manager

Mr J Pioli

SENCO (Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator)

Ms S Lowrie

Designated Safeguarding Leads

Mr C Catherine (DSL) and Ms U O’Neill (Deputy DSL)

Safer Schools Police Officer

PC J Bashir

Students are responsible for their behaviour and are expected to adhere to the Student Code of Conduct. They are expected to display exemplary behaviour which shows respect for their learning and the learning of others. They are ambassadors for CFGS and expected to be polite, courteous and to behave in such a way that is a credit to the school.

The Student Code of Conduct is underpinned by the ‘Central Essentials’ and all students are encouraged

to develop these qualities.

Students must:

• Arrive to school on time and ensure attendance is above 96.5%

• Be prepared for lessons: arriving punctually and taking out all necessary equipment, including the school planner

• Wear the full school uniform, including the school blazer when in corridors and in lessons unless a member of staff gives permission for it to be removed.

• understand that non uniform items (i.e. jewellery or denim) will be confiscated

• Remember that no electronic devices, smart watches or headphones are permitted to be used

• Have respect for their learning and the learning of others

• Complete classwork and homework to the best of their ability

• Follow instructions from all members of staff, first time and without comment

• Communicate respectfully and politely with members of the school community and members of the local community

• Use ICT, technology and social media responsibly

• Not bring any unnecessary items to school

• Never chew gum on the school site

• In classrooms, only drink water

• Be respectful and considerate when travelling to and from school

• Report any concerns that they have, either to a member of staff that they have a good relationship with or via SHARP which can be found on our school website

Around the school site students must:

• Be calm and considerate: keeping to the left, greeting others and opening doors for others

• Only eat in the canteen or playground

• Respect the environment and put litter in the bin

• Respect other people’s property, the school building, displays and equipment.

THERE IS A CODE OF CONDUCT TO ENSURE THAT STUDENTS REMAIN SAFE AT ALL TIMES AND ACHIEVE WELL

CFGS Home School Agreement

All parties (parent, student and staff) need to agree to and sign the Home School Agreement:

Parent / carer

As a parent / carer of a student at Central Foundation Girls’ School I will:

• Ensure my daughter attends school regularly, on time, in uniform and with correct equipment

• Support my daughter to do homework

• Support school policies regarding behaviour

• Attend parents’ evenings and other meetings concerning my daughter’s progress

• Inform the school if there is a problem that would affect my daughter’s education

• Agree to my daughter having her photograph taken, kept on school databases and used within the school for identification purposes

Student

As a student of Central Foundation Girls’ School I will:

• Attend school regularly, on time, in uniform, with the correct equipment

• Have a good attitude towards learning at school as well as at home

• Know the school Code of Conduct and follow it at school at all times

• Treat the whole school community and environment with respect

• Speak to a member of staff if I have any problems or concerns

• Actively contribute to the life of the school and the wider community

School

As individual staff and the whole school we will:

• Aspire to meet all the aims of the CFGS Vision Statement and transform lives through our high expectations and high standards for all

• Insist on a high standard of work and behaviour by building good relationships between students, home and school

• Provide an accessible and balanced curriculum to meet the needs of your daughter

• Set, mark and monitor homework in line with school policy

• Provide facilities for your daughter to do her homework in school

• Care for your daughter’s health, safety and happiness

• Listen to parents and students and treat everyone with respect

• Enable your daughter to make a positive contribution to society

Uniform and Equipment

School uniform is compulsory for all students in Years 7 11. Students are expected to take pride in their appearance by wearing the correct uniform every day to school.

The school uniform can be purchased online from Price & Buckland, our uniform supplier, using your debit or credit card. The school website has a Uniform Booklet available for parent/carers which describes each stage of the process. This is available when you click on the ‘Parents’ section of the website. It also describes how to apply to Tower Hamlets for the School Clothing Grant if your daughter is eligible for free school meals. Orders can be delivered to your home address, for which there will be a postage charge when you spend a minimum amount.

School uniform

All students must wear a Navy CFGS embroidered trimmed blazer. In September 2020, the trimming will be as follows:

Year 7: Blue Year 8: Lilac

Year 9: Green Year 10: Yellow

Year 11: Red

Compulsory Uniform

CFGS blazer with a blue trim

CFGS trousers, CFGS pleated skirt, CFGS jilbab or CFGS long skirt

White school shirt (with collar)

Plain black or grey tights, socks or ankle length black leggings

Plain black, flat shoes

Plain black coat

Compulsory PE Kit

CFGS badged polo shirt

Plain black jogging bottoms or leggings

Optional Uniform Items

CFGS navy badged jumper

Plain white headscarf

Plain black or white headband under headscarf

Plain black hair accessories

Plain white, collarless t shirt worn under shirt or jilbab. This must not be visible.

Please also note that

Items worn under a jilbab can only be CFGS grey embroidered trousers, black tights or black ankle length leggings

Black ankle length leggings must be worn with black socks to retain a smart appearance

Footwear must be must plain black shoes, ankle boots or trainers with no logos or coloured laces. Soles must also be black. Shoes must be flat/low wide heeled. Sandals, high heels or slipper type shoes are not permitted

Plain black scarves, plain black gloves and plain black woollen hats are permitted when outside the school buildings

No cardigans, denim jackets (of any colour) or hoodies are allowed to be worn as outer wear

Jewellery is not permitted except one pair of small ear studs/sleepers and a watch

Nose rings and studs are not allowed. Students may purchase a transparent retainer from Student Reception for 20p

Hair accessories should be plain black and any hair colouring should be natural shades

Make up, nail varnish or nail extensions cannot be worn in school by students in KS3 and KS4

The niqab and the burkha are not part of school uniform and are not to be worn in school. Students may choose to wear them in their daily journey to or from school, as it is accepted they may wish to exercise this personal choice when not engaged in school activities

In extreme weather conditions, such as snow or hot weather, the uniform rules may be adjusted for a fixed period of time. Guidance will be given by the Headteacher.

Please note that all CFGS embroidered items must be purchased from our Supplier: Price & Buckland (details are on the school website).

Science

Aprons and safety goggles are provided by the school for students when necessary. Students need to ensure long hair is tied up when doing practical work.

Drama

Students wear ‘totes’ style socks or have bare feet for Drama.

Design & Technology, Art & Design

The school will provide appropriate aprons and safety goggles for students when necessary. Students need to ensure that headscarves are safely tucked in.

PE and Dance

• Black tracksuit bottoms/leggings

• Navy school badged P.E. polo shirt (embroidered school badge)

• A dark coloured tracksuit top (weather permitting)

• Sport trainers

What happens if my daughter is not in the full school uniform?

Full uniform checks are carried out on a regular basis at the school gates and in form rooms. Any make up (including nail varnish) is removed before entry and non uniform items are confiscated.

Students who persistently break the uniform expectations will be issued with a sanction.

Students not in uniform may be placed in the Reflection Room and their parents will be requested to bring in the correct uniform. In cases of persistent non uniform offences, students may be sent home from school to change.

In exceptional circumstances, parents should write an explanation in the student planner to the Head of Year, explaining the reasons why the student is not in uniform. The Head of Year will investigate and issue temporary uniform card until full uniform can be worn.

If the problem persists, the student will be referred to her Head of Year who will take further action and may invite the parent(s) into school to attempt to resolve the issue.

What equipment will my daughter need?

Your daughter is expected to bring the following basic equipment to her lessons:

• A bag large enough to carry A4 books rucksacks are recommended

• Student planner

• Pencil

• Black and green pens

• Coloured pencils

• Rubber

• P.E. or Dance kit

• Ruler

• Sharpener

• Pencil case

• Calculator

• Memory/USB stick

• Reading book

If students come to school without the correct equipment, it can be purchased from Student Reception.

Your daughter will be supplied with a key to a locker, for which she will be asked to pay a £3.00 deposit.

In addition, your daughter will be issued with a student planner. She will need to bring this to school with her every day. This should be used to record all homework given and other important information.

Please check the planner on a regular basis to ensure that your daughter is completing all homework. It is also a useful way to communicate with Form Tutors. It should be signed by parents and Form Tutors weekly. If students lose their planner, there is a £5.00 charge to replace it.

What should I do if my daughter is absent or late to school?

The CFGS Attendance Policy

Good attendance is vital for good progress at school. All students are expected to reach at least 98% attendance and 100% punctuality, but should aim for 100% attendance. Please look at the chart below to see the effects of decreasing attendance on attainment. A student whose attendance is 95% (which means she has half a day off per week, or 3 days over a half term), will potentially achieve at least one GCSE grade below her ability. This will remain true even if she works very hard the rest of her time at school.

School attendance aims

In order to gain the most benefit from education, students must attend regularly and punctually. Central Foundation expects all of its students to attend regularly and punctually to:

• Allow students to reach their full potential

• Reduce the level of truancy and unauthorised absences

• Ensure the health and safety of students

Authorised absence

Absence is authorised when a student has been absent and the school accepts the reason given by the parents/ carers. Only the school can authorise absences.

100% 95%

85% concern unattended

Unauthorised absence

Unauthorised absence is either when a student has truanted from school or when the reason for absence is not accepted. Examples of unauthorised absences are:

• Interpreting/translating for family or friends

• Staying at home, e.g. for a delivery or the electricity or gas company

• Spending a long weekend away

• Taking holiday time

• Going to the airport

• Visiting relatives

• Looking after siblings

Every student should aim for 100% attendance

At CFGS, we use an automated system to contact parents/carers via text message if students are absent from school without a reason. If you receive one of these texts please let the school know as soon as possible why your daughter is absent from school. Please also ensure that you update the school with your phone numbers if they change.

If there are any concerns with your daughter’s attendance, you can contact the Head of Year, School Home Support Worker or Attendance and Welfare Advisor, who will advise you on how the school can support you. All staff can be contacted through the school telephone number or, through Faculty and Head of Year email addresses which you will find on the school’s website.

• Caring for parents/ other family members

• Shopping

Registration

Students are expected to be on the school site by 8.30am at the latest and are expected to be present in their Form Rooms for registration at 8.40am. Any students arriving after 8.40am will be marked late.

Parents’/Carers’ responsibilities

Parents/carers have a legal duty to make sure that their child attends school as defined in the Education Act 1996. They also have a responsibility to ensure that their child arrives on time, properly attired and in a condition to learn. Owing to the raising of the school participation age, our attendance, leave and sickness procedures apply to ALL students from Year 7 to Year 13.

Parents and carers should:

• Let the school know at the start of the day (preferably before 8.40am) by e mail, telephone or by sending a note with siblings that their daughter is ill or has any other reason for absence

• Ask for Attendance and Admissions Officers Mr K Aziz on Ext. 1299 (Years 7 10) or Ms S Khatun on Ext. 1332 (Years 11 13). The school should be informed every morning your child is unable to attend school

• Provide a note or medical certificate confirming the reason for absence when their daughter is unwell and unable to attend school

• Apply in advance for permission for any exceptional reasons for absence

• Where possible, make doctor and dental appointments outside of school hours

• Look in the child’s planner for messages from the school

• Talk to their daughter about the importance of attendance and punctuality

100% PUNCTUALITY IS JUST AS IMPORTANT AS 100% ATTENDANCE

If your child is unwell in school, you will be contacted by a member of staff to discuss the best course of action. We ensure that no student is allowed to leave the school premises without prior contact and suitable arrangements made with you.

If a student continues to have unauthorised absences, or an unacceptable number of random days off school, the Head of Year will refer the student to the Attendance and Welfare Adviser. The Attendance and Welfare Service also requires the school to refer students whose attendance and punctuality falls below 90%; this is defined as Persistent Absence.

The Attendance and Welfare Adviser (AWA) will:

• Write to the family

• Visit the family

• Provide support and information to families in need

• Issue Court Warning letters

• Pursue Court Action

• Issue Penalty Notices for leave or holidays taken in term time

Students will also be referred to the Attendance and Welfare Adviser for continued lateness and if the lateness doesn’t improve the parent may be fined by the Local Authority.

Rewards and incentives

Central Foundation will recognise good and improved attendance through:

• Praise

• Form Tutor acknowledging improved attendance/effort

• Public acknowledgement in assemblies

• Certificates for improved attendance and punctuality

• Certificates for 100% attendance and punctuality

• Presentations of awards and Central Gold Points

Leave during school time

The School Governing Body has authorised the Headteacher to act on its behalf in ensuring that the school fully complies with the requirements.

Applications for holidays in term time

The guidance from the Department for Education states that applications from parents/carers for students to take leave in term time for the purpose of a holiday should not be authorised. Parents/Carers are expected to arrange holidays during school holiday periods when children can enjoy them without their education being disrupted. This position is fully supported by the Local Authority. This policy is agreed by Governors of this school and will be applied to all cases where a request is made to go on holiday in term time.

Any applications for holidays in term time will be refused by the Headteacher.

Leave in term time for other reasons

Requests for leave in term time for other reasons can only be agreed in exceptional circumstances and for the shortest possible period. They must be submitted at least 10 days in advance to the Headteacher.

Applications received during or after a student has been taken on leave during term time cannot be considered and the absence will be unauthorised.

Parents/Carers must provide supporting evidence of any exceptional circumstances and why the leave must be taken in term time instead of in the school holidays. All applications will be considered carefully, including how the student’s educational progress could be affected. You may be asked When considering an application for leave in term time for exceptional circumstances, the Headteacher must be convinced that:

• The exceptional circumstances are justified by supporting evidence provided by the parents/carers related to the circumstances and that the supporting evidence is valid; and

•

The evidence necessarily warrants the child being absent from school in term time does the child have to be absent in term time due to the circumstances or can it wait until the school holidays?

Taking of unauthorised leave in term time

Where parents/carers choose to take students on unauthorised leave in term time then the students will be referred to the Attendance & Welfare Service for follow up and consideration for action using the LBTH Penalty Notice Scheme to address Attendance related Concerns September 2013.

A Penalty Notice may be served on an individual parent/ carer per individual child basis when the child has had 6 sessions (3 days) of unauthorised leave in term time. Where 2 parent/carers take 3 children on unauthorised leave in term time then they will receive 3 Penalty Notices of £60 each £180 per parent and £360 in total. There is no right of appeal.

Losing the school place

Parents are responsible for returning their child to school on time. If there is continued unauthorised absence, the student’s name will be removed from the register. Parents will then have to re apply for admission via the Local Authority when they return, but it may not be possible for the student to return to this school.

How is the school day organised?

Students arrive at school at 8.30am for 8.40am registration.

Year 7 Year 8 Year 9 Year 10 Year 11 Year 12 Year 13

8.40 9.30 Period 1 P1 P1 P1 P1 P1 P1 P1

9.30 10.20 Period 2 P2 P2 P2 P2 P2 P2 P2

10.20 10. 40 Break / Tutor Break Break Break Tutor Time Tutor Time Break Tutor Time

10.40 11.00 Tutor / break Tutor Time Tutor Time Tutor Time Break Break Tutor Time Break

11.00 11.50 Period 3 P3 P3 P3 P3 P3 P3 P3

11.50 12.40 Lunch / Period 4 Lunch Lunch Lunch P4 P4 Lunch P4 12.40 1.30 Period 4 / Lunch P4 P4 P4 Lunch Lunch P4 Lunch 1.30 2.20 Period 5 P5 P5 P5 P5 P5 P5 P5

2.20 3.10 Period 6 P6 P6 P6 P6 P6 P6 P6

Tuesday Week B

Year 7 Year 8 Year 9 Year 10 Year 11 Year 12 Year 13

8.40 9.25 Period 1 P1 P1 P1 P1 P1 P1 P1 9.25 10.10 Period 2 P2 P2 P2 P2 P2 P2 P2

10.10 10.30 Break / Tutor Break Break Break PHSEE/ Tutor time

PHSEE/ Tutor time Break PHSEE/ Tutor time

10:30 11:05 PHSEE PHSEE PHSEE PHSEE PHSEE PHSEE PHSEE PHSEE

11.05 11.25

Tutor / Break PHSEE/ Tutor time

PHSEE/ Tutor time

PHSEE/ Tutor time Break Break PHSEE/ Tutor time Break

11.25 12.10 Period 3 P3 P3 P3 P3 P3 P3 P3

1.40 2.25 Period 5 P5 P5 P5 P5 P5 P5 P5

2.25 3.10 Period 6 P6 P6 P6 P6 P6 P6 P6

C F G S P A R E N T S ’ H A N D B O O K 2 0 2 1 2 2 12 12.10 12.55 Period 4a / Lunch Lunch Lunch Lunch P4 P4 Lunch P4 12.55 1.40 Lunch / Period 4b P4 P4 P4 Lunch Lunch P4 Lunch

What can I do before and after school?

The school runs a Breakfast Club for all students from 8.00am to 8.30am, where breakfast is provided.

After school, the Central+ programme offers a fun range of activities to learn and develop new skills outside of the classroom through activities such as cookery, ice skating and trips out. For further information, please contact Mr J. Pioli (Community Manager) at the school on Ext. 1235 or centralplus@central.towerhamlets.sch.uk

You could also attend our Learning Lounge homework club where Queen Mary University students will support you with your homework from 3.30pm 4.30pm.

Student leadership

At CFGS we have an extensive range of student leadership programmes for all students running through faculties, across year groups and outside of the curriculum these can be found by students on our student leadership ladder. We also offer students in Years 8, 10 and 12 the opportunity to complete nationally recognised accreditations in Student Leadership. These programmes allow our students to develop their ‘Central Skills’ which are necessary for preparation for life beyond school.

Which subjects will my daughter study?

We provide a broad and balanced curriculum that aims to meet the needs of all our students. Over the two week cycle, the subjects each student in Year 7 will take are as follows:

At Key Stage 3, students are taught in mixed attainment groups. We operate a two week timetable with six 50 minute lessons each day. Some of these, particularly in practical subjects, are double periods (100 minutes). The majority of subjects work in six week units and pupils are assessed at the end of the unit.

ICT provision

Computer logins and emails

On arrival, all students are given their own network login and email. They are shown how to set up and change their password on this account. Print credits are given regularly. Students should not share their login and it is their responsibility to make sure no one else uses their login.

Internet access and E-Safety

Safe, filtered internet access is provided on all computers at CFGS (for study purposes) via the school’s internet filter and the London Grid for Learning filter. All students are allowed to use the internet for educational use only and need to sign the Internet Agreement in the student planners. Students who abuse this privilege will lose their access to the internet.

Show My Homework

All students are given logins to the school’s Show My Homework site. Here students will find homework, coursework, resources and activities related and enhancing their in class learning. There is an App you can download to your smart phone so that you can easily access this site and check what homework your daughter is being set.

Accessing student work from home

Students can also access their files and learning materials via the Internet from the school’s website or at https://remote.central.towerhamlets.sch.uk/rdweb using their network user ID and password.

STUDENTS

NOT

LOGIN AND IT IS THEIR RESPONSIBILITY TO MAKE SURE NO ONE ELSE USES IT

Keeping safe online

The internet is an excellent resource for those who use it carefully and wisely. All students are expected to act safely and responsibly when using the internet on computers, laptops, phones and tablets. If a student receives or comes across anything that makes them feel uncomfortable, it is essential that it is reported to an adult. It is also essential that students only post or share positive comments, and they understand that they are breaking the law if they write anything offensive or abusive.

Key things that will keep your child stay safe online:

• Some people on the internet are not who they say they are. They must be careful who they chat to and make friends with on Social Networking

• Students should not be using social media until they are the legal age to do so

• Students should not be ‘friends’ with people on social networking sites that theyhave not met in person

• Students should never agree to meet anyone without telling an adult and getting permission first

• Students must report any worries theyhave about what theysee or read on the internet to an adult

• Students should use a nickname online and be very careful about privacy settings on sites like Instagram.

• Students should not give out personal information like email addresses, home or school addresses or mobile phone numbers to people they do not know. They should not give information on social networking sites about clubs they are in or where they are at specific times of the day. Be careful about tagging themselves in photographs as this can give their location away.

• Students should only post photographs and comments which they would be happy with your parents/carers seeing and make sure they do not show where theyor others live. Once a photograph or comment is online, you can never get it back or stop it being sent to others, even after you have deleted it

• Students must not share your passwords and log in details

• Students must keep their personal information safe

• Students must not send any video clips, films, pictures or documents that are in any way inappropriate, offensive or illegal.

• Students should always respect others cyberbullying is not acceptable and causes distress. Police can be called and people can be charged with harassment. Treat people as you would like to be treated.

If you want to find out more about using digital technology safely go to: www.saferinternet.org.uk www.ceop.gov.uk (this is to report offensive or abusive material)

CFGS Student ICT Acceptable Use Agreement

(Students will be asked to sign this contract in advance of taking their place at Central Foundation Girls' school)

1. I agree to only access sites and download content that are related to my school work and I will tell adults about any sites that I am worried about

2. I will only use my own login, email address and password, which I will not share with others

3. I will not download or install anything onto the school network

4. I will avoid plagiarism (copying) by providing clear references to sources and websites that I have used for my work

5. I will scan all USB devices for viruses before I download any files on to the network

6. I will not play computer games during the school day unless they support my learning

7. I will not use the internet without permission from a member of staff. I will log off from the internet when I am asked to do so

8. I will only print copies of my work when it is really necessary

9. I will not use chat rooms and social networking websites during the school day

10. I will notify an adult immediately if I suspect someone else of misusing ICT facilities or the internet

11. I will not try to access the school Wi Fi without permission from my teacher

I am responsible for my actions and it is my responsibility to keep myself and others safe online and while using other technologies.

I understand that the school must take appropriate action if I have broken the Student Acceptable Use Agreement.

The school may decide to:

• Give a sanction/warning

• Inform my parents

• Detention

• Isolation or exclusion

• Inform the police

• Restrict my access to the school ICT systems

Library & ICT

The libraries are open to students before,afterschool, and during break time and lunchtime. Study support is available in both libraries after school:

• Motivate (Main building): Monday to Thursday: 3.10 5.00pm

• Aspire (Sixth Form building): Monday to Friday: 3.30 5.30pm

The Motivate library has 22 computers The Aspire library has 21 computers. All students can book the computers to use before school, after school, break and lunchtime.

There are also ICT clubs that run at lunchtime. After school and holiday computer, provision is registered through the school’s Central+ scheme. Please contact:

Mr J. Pioli (Community Manager) on Ext. 1235 for further information on Central+.

How else will my daughter be supported?

Every student at Central Foundation is able to access a variety of support for their learning should they need it. Students can go to Homework Club or Learning Lounge. Specialist support can also be provided by theInclusion Teamorthe following members of staff:

• Key Stage 3, 4 and 5 Academic Mentors

• Special Educational Needs (SEND) teachers

• English as an Additional Language (EAL) teachers

• Student Support House

• The House (Personal support for vulnerable students)

• After school Learning Lounge for help with homework staffed by Queen Mary University students. Free tuition is provided in English, Maths and Science

• Home School Support Workers

• Parent Outreach Worker

• Attendance and Welfare Advisor

• Mental Health and Wellbeing Lead Teacher

• School Counsellor

• Educational Psychologist

• School Social Worker

How much homework will my daughter get?

Central Foundation Girls’ School is committed to providing homework for every student. Learning at home will expand your daughter’s horizons and support her to make accelerated academic progress.

All students are provided with a homework timetable, which is shared with all parents and staff. This is to support students in planning their independent study time and provides a plan of which homework to complete on each evening of the week

• All homework is posted on a site called Show My Homework. Students and parents can access this via the school website or, they can download the app to their smartphone or tablet. Parents should set up their SMHW account and log in.

CFGS will provide parents with a unique PIN number in September 2022, which will allow you to set up your SMHW account and link to your daughter’s account

If you have more than one daughter at CFGS you will be directly linked to each of their SMHW accounts

Please contact Ms Mahil if you need any support logging in to the SMHW parent app

• Students should spend a varied amount of time on homework each evening according to their age and level of study

Homework guide for students

Year Group Approximate hours per weekday

Approximate hours per week

7 & 8 1.5 hours 7.5 9 1.5 hours 7.5

10 & 11 2 to 2.5 hours 10 to 12.5

The role of the parents

The role of the parents is crucial if a student is to gain success from homework. To reinforce its value through positive feedback will give students the confidence to persevere, work hard and reach high standards of achievement.

Parents can support by:

• Checking what homework their daughter has been set by logging into the Show My Homework app and reviewing their daughter’s student planner every day

• Providing a table, chair and a quiet place to work or supporting students’ attendance at homework and ICT clubs after school

• Negotiating with the child when homework is to be done as a student’s free time is important too

• Where possible, checking the time spent on individual tasks

• Where possible, checking presentation and content of all homework being returned to school

• Providing the school with information about any problems through the student planner or by contacting the school directly

Educational trips and visits in school time

How will I know if my daughter is progressing?

As part of your daughter’s normal programme of learning at CFGS, we will regularly enhance her experience by providing trips and visit to places of educational interest. All trips and visits are planned safely and your daughter will always be accompanied by a member of the school staff. When the trip involves a change in your daughter’s normal school routine, a member of staff will write to you to give you information about these trips and to request your permission for your daughter to attend.

When the trip takes place during your daughter’s normal lesson time, we will not write to you. Trips and visits in lesson time are normally within walking distance from the school. We ask parents to indicate their agreement to our trips policy on the admission form. If you want further information on trips and visits please contact Mr J Pioli (Community Manager) on Ext. 1235.

Charges can apply for trips and visits. This does not undermine the school’s responsibilities in terms of the 1988 Education Act. Please note that we always consider circumstances of special need and will find a way to support your daughter if you contact the school. If insufficient funds are forthcoming, trips will not go ahead.

Progress Reports

We will report to you about your daughter’s progress via ‘Progress Reports’. These are our reports which are sent home to you twice a year. On each report you will be updated on the progress your daughter is making in each of her subjects as well as a specific letter linked to her home learning and commitment to learning These letters are as follows:

Mastering

Secure Developing Emerging

It is important that our parents discuss the comments and information contained in the progress reports with their daughter. If at any point, you have any questions we strongly recommend that you contact the teacher concerned to discuss further.

Progress colour meaning

How and when can I expect the school to contact me about my daughter’s progress?

At Central Foundation, we aim to work in partnership with you as parents/carers. To help achieve this there are several opportunities for you to meet with us.

Progress Event

All parents/carers of Year 7 students are invited within the first term to attend the Progress Event so that they can meet the Form Tutors and receive an overview of their daughter’s progress. A report will also be shared and this will give a written overview of her progress in her different subjects and provide a summary of her attendance, punctuality, achievement and behaviour.

Parent’s Meeting

In the summer term, parents/carers are invited to Year 7 Parents’ Evening. Here you will have the opportunity to meet with your daughter’s teachers to review her progress and discuss learning targets to enable and secure further progress.

As well as the Progress Report mentioned above, you will also receive our regular newsletter called ‘Central Issue’. This is always a great read; a real celebration of student achievement.

We also send home letters during the year informing you about a wide range of events and activities. The majority of letters will be sent home to you via your daughter so please ask her on a regular basis if there are any letters from the school.

There might also be occasions when we need to contact you when things are not going so well in school. On these occasions, you will be contacted and invited into school to speak to a member of staff. We will also contact you when we feel you daughter is working exceptionally well.

How will my daughter be rewarded when she has done well?

At CFGS, we believe that positive behaviour is best promoted and developed by recognising, celebrating and rewarding outstanding behaviour. When students do well, teachers and Central staff will recognise, praise and reward them. This can be in a variety of ways, including verbal or written praise, postcards home, certificates, recognition badges, subject specific prizes or a reward trip.

Students can also accrue Central Gold points, and these are awarded for achievement in the following areas:

o Attendance

o Punctuality

o The Central Essentials

o Contribution to the life of the school

o Exemplary behaviour for learning

Students can gain Bronze, Silver and Gold awards to recognise the number of Central Gold points that they have achieved.

In order to ensure that our students feel empowered and can compete as global citizens, we have refined focus on the development of key Central Skills across the curriculum.

The Central Skills help students develop effective learning habits. The Central Skills is a framework developed by the school in collaboration with the students to ensure that they, the students, feel confident in identifying their skills and talking about how they know they are demonstrating these. It allows students to develop their communication, adaptability, problem solving, creativity / curiosity and analytical skills, which are valued by employers and university / apprenticeship providers Post 18. This in turn feeds into our ‘Central education’ helping students to understand ‘who we are’.

To support the transition into Year 7 and develop student confidence in using the skills framework, all students in Year 7 complete the ‘Central Skills Bookmark’ challenge which on completion results in certificates and prizes.

SIMs Parent App

SIMs Parent App is a secure, password protected app and website that allows you to view your daughter’s achievements, attendance, timetable and behaviour incidents 24 hours a day via any mobile device and the internet.

Instructions for setting up SIMS Parent App:

• An invitation email will be sent to you from noreply@sims.co.uk to the email address that you provide CFGS with. When you receive this email, click on the ‘Accept invitation’ link within the email and follow the instructions

• To open the SIMS Parent App website go onto the school website at the following address: www.central.towerhamlets.sch.uk

• Follow the links to sims parent(via ‘Portals & Links’ or ‘Parents’ Login’), or alternatively, you can go straight to the login page by typing the following address: www.sims parent.co.uk

When this link opens, you will see:

For SIMS Parent App queries, please contact our admin team on email: welcome@central.towerhamlets.sch.uk in the first instance.

Parents’ Evenings and Reviews

Why are they held?

Parents’ Evenings are held for three main reasons:

• So you can talk about your daughter’s progress at school with her teachers

• To discuss strengths and areas your daughter may need more support in

• To talk about the next steps this will include setting targets for future learning

Do I really need to attend?

It is crucial that you attend these sessions, as they are your opportunity to discuss your daughter’s progress.

The education system can sometimes seem very complicated and confusing to parents. There have been many changes during the last few years in the subjects covered and the ways they are taught. The school will not expect you to be familiar with all the subjects and teaching methods used, but attending Parents’ Evenings will help you to understand how your daughter is being taught.

Attending these meetings will send a positive message to both your daughter and the school, and of course you hear first hand about how she is getting on.

Might it all be bad news?

Parents often worry about talking to their daughter’s teachers during a consultation session. They fear they will be told about all the things that have ‘gone wrong’ during the year. This is never the focus, although if there had been concerns, particularly about behaviour or learning, the school should have informed you when the problem first occurred.

What might a parents’ meeting be like?

When you arrive and register, you will be given your daughter’s report to read and will be able to read the teacher’s remarks about her progress before you talk to them.

What will the teacher talk about?

All schools want to work together with parents to provide the best possible education for every student. Teachers will talk to you about your daughter’s general progress, performance in specific subjects, attendance, whether she takes part in a club or out of school activity, attitude to school and whether she has taken on extra responsibilities such as becoming a member of the School Council. Awards gained and behaviour will probably be discussed as well.

Plan your time

Teachers have to see the parents of all the students in their classes, so meetings can rarely last for more than five minutes. If you have particular concerns to discuss that may take longer, please make an appointment for another day. Five minutes go very quickly so it is important to prepare carefully for the meeting and write down all the things you want to discuss.

What can I ask during the meeting?

Read the report carefully and talk about it with your daughter. Discuss the comments and see if she agrees. If the report raises some issues, write them down so that you do not forget to mention them.

The meeting is intended to be a discussion so you may also wish to ask some of the questions listed below:

• Is my daughter happy at school?

• Does she get on well with staff and other students?

• What are her strengths and weaknesses?

• Does she work hard enough?

• Is she progressing at a reasonable rate?

• Is there anything more I can do to help my child at home?

You may wish to tell the teacher about:

• Any changes or issues at home which may affect your daughter’s learning

• Things your daughter does or does not like

• Things your daughter enjoys or finds difficult

• Special interests

• Any concerns

How we can work together to support your daughter

Parents are expected to support their daughter by:

• Having a copy of her lesson and homework timetables to keep at home

• Downloading the ‘Show my Homework’ App so that you can check what homework your daughter has been set

• Download the SIMS parents app so you can track your daughter’s achievement, behaviour and attendance

• Checking her homework planner every week and signing it

• Looking through her books regularly and asking questions about the work

• Making sure her uniform is correct every morning

• Reinforcing the school’s expectations

• Attending parents’ consultation events and keeping informed about her academic achievement

Other organisations that offer guidance and support for parents in supporting their daughter’s learning are:

Parents Advice Centre (PAC) 30 Greatorex Street, London E1 5NP 020 7364 6489 or email: pac@towerhamlets.gov.uk

Department for Education www.education.gov.uk

This website consists of useful information such as Performance Tables, Parental Rights and Responsibilities, and School Rights and Responsibilities.

The biometric school lunch system

Students are not allowed out of the school at lunchtime and are supervised by over 15 Lunchtime Supervisors and teaching staff.

School lunches cost the LEA rate currently £2.47 (unless you are entitled to free school meals). Packed lunches can be brought from home, but must be eaten in the playground. Any drinks should be in plastic bottles or cartons. Glass bottles are not allowed in school.

The school uses a biometric fingerprint reader to enable students to pay for lunches. This system has several advantages:

• It removes the need for students to bring money into school

• Parents/carers can check that lunch money is being spent correctly

• It prevents problems of students forgetting or losing their lunch cards

• Students are able to get their lunch more quickly Parents can be assured that the fingerprint images cannot be used by any other source for identification purposes. The biometric system uses an image of the fingerprint to create a numerical code and then discards the fingerprint. Only the code remains which cannot be changed back into a fingerprint.

On Induction Day, or when the student starts at Central Foundation, she is shown by staff how to check their accountbalanceusing the allocated machine near student reception. If a student pays for lunch, when the finger is scanned, she can betoldbyamemberof staffhow much is on her account. We encourage all students to take responsibility and regularly check that their accounts are always topped up.

The school’s Biometric policy is available for parents’ information on the school website.

PAY360

Parents/Carers must register for PAY360 using an invitation code issued by email from the PAY360 app. Queries are dealt with by General Office.

Free school meals

Your child may be able to get free school meals if you get any of the following:

• Income Support

• Income based Jobseeker’s Allowance

• Income related Employment and Support Allowance

• Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999

• The guaranteed element of Pension Credit

• Child Tax Credit (provided you’re not also entitled to Working Tax Credit and have an annual gross income of no more than £16,190)

• Working Tax Credit run on paid for 4 weeks after you stop qualifying for Working Tax Credit

• Universal Credit your household income must be less than £7,400 a year (after tax and not including any benefits you get).

Children who get paid these benefits directly, instead of through a parent or guardian, can also get free school meals.

Your child may also get free school meals if you get any of these benefits and your child is both:

• Younger than the compulsory age for starting school

• In full time education

Safeguarding your child and working with external agencies

Your daughter’s safety and welfare are very important to us. Keeping Children Safe in Education (2019) emphasises that safeguarding children is everyone’s responsibility, therefore everyone should know who to contact if they are concerned about a child or young person.

Safeguarding is not just about protecting children from deliberate harm; in school it includes a duty to protect children from:

• Bullying and discrimination

• Drug and substance misuse

• Risks associated with educational visits

• Risks associated with use of the Internet

• Extremist ideology or persons

• Issues which may be specific to a local area or population, for example, gang activity

Safeguarding also includes a duty to ensure:

• School security

• Pupil health and safety

• Safe use of physical intervention

• Provision of first aid

• The needs of pupils with medical conditions are met

Staff are well trained in safeguarding and child protection, and understand their responsibilities in order to achieve positive outcomes, keep pupils safe, and complement the support that other professionals may be providing.

CFGS works with various external agencies, for example the Targeted Youth Support, NSPCC, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) and Step Forward to help deliver a range of support and/ or additional learning opportunities, which will enable students to succeed and reach their potential.

All school staff, professionals from outside agencies and parent volunteers are DBS checked before they can work with students. Alternatively, a risk assessment is undertaken and the professionals are not left unsupervised with students.

All adults working at Central Foundation have a training session with our Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) before they meet and work with students. This meeting is to update them with all current Safeguarding and Child Protection legislation, and to ensure that they know and understand the school’s policies and procedures regarding these issues.

What do I do if…?

…my child is unhappy?

We will work with you and your daughter so please share any concerns, as we will do our best to help. The Form Tutor is your first point of contact, along with the Head of Year. The Home School Support Worker and the Parent Outreach Worker are also available for you to contact. All problems are treated with respect and with confidentiality, where appropriate.

…my child is not making progress?

Again, the Form Tutor or Head of Year is your first point of contact. Also the Special Educational Needs Co ordinator (SENCO) can be contacted at school for advice. The school works with a range of outside support agencies such as the Educational Psychologist. The school can access these services to support your daughter as appropriate.

…I am not sure who to contact at the school?

If you are unsure who you need to speak to at school regarding any concerns you have, please contact Ms A Begum (Parent Outreach Worker) in the first instance on Ext: 1524 or email abegum@central.towerhamlets.sch.uk and she will be able to advise you.

What to do if you are being bullied

Bullying is the repetitive, intentional hurting of one person or group by another person or group where the relationship involves an imbalance of power.

Bullying is not and will not be accepted at CFGS. Students should report any bullying that they witness or experience to a member of staff, usually their Form tutor or Head of Year, so that it can be investigated and dealt with. If students prefer, they can report any bullying through SHARP.

People can be targeted through:

• CYBERBULLYING: includes using social media and electronic devices to send nasty, prejudiced or inappropriate messages, spread rumours, sharing private information, post or share photos or videos without permission.

• EMOTIONAL BULLYING: includes spreading rumours, leaving someone out, gossiping harming someone’s reputation, ignoring them.

• PHYSICAL BULLYING: includes pushing, kicking, hitting, punching or use of any violence.

• VERBAL BULLYING: includes name calling, baiting, sarcasm, spreading rumours, teasing, intimidation, threatening or hurtful comments (‘banter’)

Bullying is often rooted in intolerance and prejudice, and therefore it may also be:

• BIPHOBIC BULLYING: the fear or hatred of bisexuality and bisexual people, or belief that they are inferior

• DISABILITY BASED BULLYING: the fear or hatred of someone with a physical or mental disability, including making assumptions about their abilities, or a belief that they are inferior

• FAITH BASED BULLYING: the fear or hatred of someone due to their faith or religion, or belief that they are inferior

• HOMOPHOBIC BULLYING: the fear or hatred of homosexuality and homosexual people, or belief that they are inferior

• RACIST BULLYING: the fear or hatred of a person based on their colour, ethnicity, nationality or race, or belief that they are inferior

• SEXIST or SEXUAL BULLYING: the fear or hatred of a person based on their gender, including treating them differently because they are not perceived to conform to gender norms, or belief that they are inferior. This includes bullying behaviour with a sexual element

• TRANSPHOBIC BULLYING: the fear or hatred of transsexual or transgender people, or belief that they are inferior

What do I if my child is being bullied?

It is essential that any concerns are reported to the school so that the matter can be investigated promptly and sensitively.

Students must talk to an adult. This can be any member of staff in school, including a teacher, Form Tutor, Head of Year, Academic Mentor, member of the House Team, SEND teacher, School Nurse, School Counsellor or a Teaching Assistant, or an adult outside school such as their parent/carer or a friend. If they do not feel comfortable approaching an adult, they can report their concerns through SHARP anonymously or speak to a responsible student, such as an Anti bullying Ambassador.

Parent / carers are encouraged to report any concerns that they have about bullying to the school, normally the Head of Year. They can do this by phoning the school Reception to request a phone call back or to arrange a meeting.

Gold Status for the Anti-Bullying Alliance All Together Programme

CFGS is proud to have received Gold status for the Anti-Bullying Alliance All Together Programme. This is in recognition of all the work that is done by both staff and students throughout CFGS in order to reduce the incidence and impact of bullying both in school and online.

Medical needs

It is important that the school holds accurate and up to date records of any medical needs or medical conditions that might affect your child whilst they are in school. Parents and carers are responsible for providing the school with this information about their daughters’ health on admission to the school through the Pre Admission Forms and discussion on Year 6 Interview day.

If a student needs to take prescribed medication in school then the relevant Consent Forms will need to be completed and it is the parent/carer’s responsibility to give the school the prescribed medication that their daughter requires and keep it up to date. Please note that parents are expected to request that their doctor, wherever possible, prescribes medication in frequencies that allow the student to take it outside of school hours.

If a student becomes unwell during the school day, they gain their teacher’s permission to visit the Medical Room so that a First Aider can assess their medical need.

What if my daughter’s medical needs change?

Please inform the school if your daughter has a medical condition, is due to return from a long term absence, or if their medical needs change. If your daughter has a long term medical issue, supported by a medical diagnosis, which may impact on their day to day school life then an Individual Healthcare Plan may be developed to support them and to ensure that they are able to participate and excel in the school. This will be developed in collaboration with the student, parents/ carers, SENCO and the School Nurse.

What extra activities and clubs can my daughter do before and after school, and at lunchtime?

Students in every Year group from Year 7 to 13 are expected to take part in activities and learning experiences outside the normal school day. The range of opportunities on offer at CFGS are wide computer workshops, sports, drama productions, music and academic classes. There are also opportunities for residential activities.

As students pass through each year of their school life, they need to complete a number of challenges. These challenges range from attending a course after school, to visiting a university. Every student receives booklet in which to record the experiences they have had over the school year.

Central Essential Challenges

Every CFGS student is encouraged to develop the five positive qualities that we call the Central Essentials. We know that students who develop these qualities are likely to have the skills they need to be successful both in and out of school.

Each Year 7 student will start to develop qualities over the summer holidays by completing a series of challenges. Students will record their progress in a booklet that will be given to them on Transition Day. Examples of the challenges include:

Ambitious: Research a job that you would like to do in the future. Write a detailed fact file about this job.

Independent: On a visit to a park or on a walk, find a tree and collect a leaf. Use books or the internet to identify the tree from the leaf. Draw the leaf and label as many parts as you can.

Resilient: Show consistent progress at an after school club.

Respectful: Support your parent/carer in creating the weekly shopping list.

Integrity: Meet deadlines, be punctual and be a person who shows they do what they say they will.

Students will bring their completed booklet to CFGS on their first day in Year 7, and will be rewarded with a Central Gold Point and a certificate when at least four challenges are completed for that particular Central Essential.

All students get the opportunity to complete these challenges through activities offered through school.

The library is open before and after school each day. The team of library staff encourage the students to read for pleasure and provide support to students undertaking research and coursework as well as homework.

We also run after school and lunchtime clubs. These range from homework clubs, to sports clubs where students can socialise and build their skills in a particular sport.

The Transition Programme

There are many ways students are supported to make a smooth transition from primary to secondary school. We run a special Transition Holiday Club during the Summer holidays for Year 6 students who will be attending Central in September and there is also special team building trip in the first term. These provisions are in place because it has been shown that by participating in such activities, students get to know each other better and become more familiar with the school. This supports them to make a successful transition into secondary school, and to be fully engaged in school life.

Performing Arts

We offer a wide range of high quality Performing Arts extra curricular activities such as Dance (Bollywood, Street Dance and GCSE clubs), Drama (lunchtime Drama and GCSE clubs) and Music (‘Rock School’, band practice, choir and GCSE clubs). Students have the opportunity to perform in a number of shows throughout the year, both in school and in the borough. All of these opportunities enhance pupils’ confidence, communication and social skills.

Peripatetic instrument lessons

Students have the opportunity to have lessons on a wide variety of instruments including piano, keyboard, violin, viola, cello, flute, clarinet, drums, steel pans and guitar. Peripatetic lessons are free of charge and students can attend a 25 minute lesson each week.

To express an interest in receiving music lessons students need to collect an application form from the Head of Music.

Sport

The school runs various sports clubs at lunch time and after school and we encourage all students to be active and participate in sporting activities. Clubs include Volleyball, Basketball, Netball, Cricket, Football and Athletics.

Central+

At Central the school day does not stop at 3.10pm. We want all of our students to have a passion for learning particularly in their own time. Central+ is our programme of fun, focused learning activities that we run before school, at lunchtimes, after school and in the holidays.

There are a number of activities for Year 6 students to engage with before joining CFGS, including our one week transition summer school. Activities are provided either free of charge, or are heavily subsidised by the school. All through the year we partner with a number of agencies who offer an incredible range of free courses for young people across Tower Hamlets. For more information please visit the Futureversity website www.futureversity.org

The activities encourage a use of imagination and a willingness to take part and achieve in a variety of between what is wrong and right and how to reflect on the consequences of their actions. Central+ promotes effective SMSC development by engaging with an average of 96% of students per Year group in extra curricular activities, student leadership and community volunteering.

A student panel is elected every year, of which all activities are developed, promoted and organised through, giving all learners the ability to work with each other and display a sense of belonging. Sixth Form students are paid to work alongside the Community Manager on the scheme through an application and interview process.

The students help design a full programme that encourages socialising with young people from a range of religious, ethnic and socio economic backgrounds in preparation for life beyond the school gates.

Just a few examples of regular activities that take place after school include The Duke of Edinburgh Awards, Rock Climbing, Gardening, Football, Baking Club, Bengali Club, Karate, Volleyball and extra curricular learning support.

During the holidays students can expect anything from Laser Tag, High Ropes Course, Ice Skating and First Aid Courses to trips to Harry Potter World, Theme Parks, London Zoo and the Theatre The school sends parents a list of clubs and services after school and at lunchtimes every half term.

We hope that all parents and carers will join us in encouraging students to take advantage of everything that is on offer.

Independent Careers Service – letter to Parents and Carers

Dear Parents and Carers,

INDEPENDENT CAREERS SERVICE AND THE DATA PROTECTION ACT

The Independent Careers Service is a government funded body that provides advice and guidance for students at key points in their school life. It aims to remove barriers to learning and progression and ensure that young people make a smooth transition to adulthood and working life.

Careers Advisors work in Central Foundation School with students in Years 9 13. In order to provide the best services, they ask the school to provide basic information about our students. The data will be used to provide you and your daughter with information to help you make decisions about your daughter’s future.

In line with the Data Protection Act, the school is now required to ask you for your consent for this information to be given.

If you are in agreement that the school can continue to provide this information, you need take no further action. If you do not wish to give your consent to this, please contact me at the school as soon as possible.

Yours sincerely, Ms C Prince Headteacher

How we can help with Careers Advice

Year 7 Careers Entitlement

In Year 7 students receive careers education lessons, which are taught through the PSHEE programme. In these lessons students are introduced to the world of work and learn about job roles, careers and how careers and working patterns have changed over time. Students are encouraged to think about who they are and their interests. They are also given the opportunity to reflect on their own skills, qualities, values and explore those careers that appeal to them.

Photographic and Video Permission

We often take photographs and/or make video clips of students to celebrate their achievement. These images and films may sometimes be used in our school magazine Central Issue, our student produced magazine Central Star, the school prospectus, our school website, social media and other publicity material.

If you object to photographs or film clips of your daughter being used in this way, please indicate this on the back of the admission forms you fill in when your daughter joins Central Foundation.

How does the school work with parents and carers?

Parental engagement

The school works with parents in a number of ways to ensure a successful partnership. We have established a well attended Parents’ Forum that takes place every half term with our Parent Outreach Worker Aysha Begum, the Headteacher and with other key members of staff present. Parents have the opportunity to become parent ambassadors and inform and consult on parental engagement. This gives parents the opportunity to raise issues related to their daughters’ learning and about concerns in the local community and work together with school to address them.

Classes for parents and carers

Under the banner of ‘Friends of CFGS’, we currently offer parents, carers and the community various courses and workshops at Central Foundation Girls’ School, including ESOL E1 and ESOL E2 (English), Parenting programmes, Exam stress management, First Aid, Aspirations and Work skills workshops, E safety training, Community interpreting, Volunteering in schools, Sewing and Gardening. Parents also have to the opportunity to attend educational visits and cultural experiences to universities, museums, exhibitions and London landmarks. Working alongside our Parent Outreach worker, ‘Friends’ also organise exhibitions, cultural events and social visits to restaurants and parks to facilitate networking and support within the community. ‘Friends’ are also welcome to use the fitness suite at the Sports Centre.

Our parents and carers have found the Parents’ Forum, classes and workshops to be a great way of getting to know the school and other parents/carers, boosting self-confidence as well as having greater involvement with the school’s decision making. This has been a step forward in engaging parents to help raise their daughters’ achievement levels as well as to improve their own academic and vocational skills.

We provide a range of services and events to adapt to the needs and requests of our parents.

For further information about parents’ classes, workshops and events and becoming more involved with the school, please contact Ms A Begum (Parent Outreach Worker) on Ext. 1524 or email: parentoutreach@central.towerhamlets.sch.uk

Central Foundation Girls’ School

25 33 Bow Road (Main Campus) London E3 2AE

Aspire Sixth Form Centre London E3 2BS

T: 020 8981 1131 F: 020 8983 0188

welcome@central.towerhamlets.sch.uk

www.central.towerhamlets.sch.uk