St Joseph's Boys' School Derry Prospectus 2021

S T JO SEPH ’S BOYS’ SCHOOL

PROSPECTUS 2021

St Joseph’s Boys’ School Prospectus 2021

HEAD BOY’S WELCOME

PR I NC I PA L’S A DDR E S S

As the new Head Boy for St Joseph’s, I am honoured to invite you and your son to have a look at our annual prospectus for the academic year 2020/21. This has been a strange year and as such I am disappointed that you won’t have the opportunity to visit our school and see the fantastic activities and facilities that await, should you choose St Joseph’s. I hope this prospectus gives you a glimpse of what life is like within our school.

Dear Parent/Guardian and boys,

In September 2014 I began life at St Joseph’s. Initially I was nervous and would not have believed that I would end up as Head Boy. But from the moment I stepped through the doors I found an environment that was supportive, warm and safe. I knew that this was the school for me. Not only have I excelled academically but I have also made friends for life. My journey at St Joseph’s started with our fantastic summer scheme, and I would strongly recommend that your son takes part in this, should the opportunity arise. It will allow him to get to know other pupils, meet teachers and give him an idea of the school’s layout.

Life at St Joseph’s is always busy. In September, your son will get the chance to study a wide variety of new subjects including Technology and Design, Science and PE. We also offer a range of different afterschool clubs such as homework, football and Minecraft. We have excellent PE facilities and have just recently refurbished our school gym. There’s something for everyone at St Joseph’s. Hence our school motto “Achievement for All.” I have found the staff at the school extremely supportive and encouraging and they have given me the drive to succeed academically and socially.

It’s hard to believe that in a few short months my journey at St Joseph’s will come to end. Next year I hope to study International Politics at Queen’s University Belfast. However, I will never forget my time at St Joseph’s. I assure you that should your son choose St Joseph’s that he will look back in 7 years at his time here as being the best days of his life. I wish him every success.

Matthew Devine

As the proud Principal of St Joseph’s Boys’ School Derry​; I would like to introduce you to the great work that happens here every day and the support of a skilled and professional staff who are dedicated and committed to all our pupils. St Joseph’s Boys’ School has many strengths and enormous potential to encourage, nurture and achieve only the best for all our pupils. I am pleased to report that the results this year have been our highest to date and my expectations of the boys in the school in terms of their achievement, motivation, attitude and behaviour are very high. I expect all our pupils to uphold core values of respect, courtesy and cooperation and to do their best in all that they want to achieve both in and out of the classroom.

The relationships between our pupils, staff, parents/guardians and parish community is essential to the success of each individual pupil and the success of St Joseph’s Boys’ School. Working together will ensure that each pupil will make outstanding progress and leave us as responsible, well - qualified, resilient young people ready for the next stage of their career.

St Joseph’s asks all our parents for their continuing support. From new parents/guardians of year 8 pupils joining us this year, we ask that you ensure that each pupil wears our St Joseph’s uniform with pride, aims to have full attendance, is punctual and arrives every day prepared for learning.

Your contribution as parents/guardians cannot be underestimated, so together we can ensure that our School motto ‘Achievement for All’ is a reality for each pupil.

I look forward to working with you in partnership as your son progresses through the School.

Yours Faithfully

Martina McCarron Principal

Head Boy

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St Joseph’s Boys’ School Prospectus 2021

OUR FAITH

FAT H E R PAT R IC K L AG A N

Religious Education is at the heart of the curriculum and central to the school community.

An important aim of the school is to bring students to an awareness of God’s love, care and compassion, so that they will find meaning in their lives, hope for the future and give service to others. As a Catholic school, the role of liturgy and spiritual development is given prominence in the day to day running of St Joseph’s.

School Chaplain

Staff and pupils are involved in regular events which include weekly lunch time assemblies for junior and senior school, masses, Advent and Lenten reconciliation services, and retreats. We fully recognise the importance of promoting our faith and fostering the ideals that your child received in both his home and primary school. Each year a number of our senior pupils become involved in the Pope John Paul II Award. This award gives students an opportunity to enrich their faith and social awareness by volunteering to work and serve in their parishes and local communities.

This year has also been an important year for the religious life of the school as we celebrated the opening of our new school Oratory, St Joseph’s. This sacred space will be invaluable to the liturgical life of the school which was blessed and officially opened by Most Reverend Bishop McKeown on the 8th December 2020, which also was the beginning of the year of St Joseph’s in the church calendar.

Charity work is a very important element of life in St Joseph’s, and it is at the very centre of the Catholic Ethos of the school. Helping those in need is a Christian duty which should never be overlooked, and in all the charity work they engage in, the boys live out the command of Christ, “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.” During the past year, both pupils and staff engaged in a wide variety of fund-raising activities, and as always, the generosity of pupils and parents has been phenomenal.

Although the history, tradition and ethos of the school is Catholic, St Joseph’s Boys’ School welcomes students of all traditions who are willing to support and contribute to this tradition. In this diversity there is richness and sharing that is mutually beneficial.

“May God who has begun the good work in you bring it to fulfilment.” These words from St. Paul’s letter to the Philippians capture the mission and vocation to which every member of staff and pupil of St. Joseph’s Boys’ School is called to and inspired by. A truly Catholic School is not only a place where our young people grow and excel in their studies, but also a place where they are loved, cherished, respected and encouraged to become the very best that God their loving Father has called them to be. Through the communion of relationships, friendships, and support, the school environment becomes the classroom where they discover how best to respond to the great work that has begun in them.

T H E S C HO OL PRAY E R Thank you God for another day, Thank you God for showing me the way.

Help me Lord to be fair and kind, To always give others peace of mind.

Never dwell on what we have done, God forgives us, we are his sons.

Be my best in what I think, do, and say, Guide me Lord throughout this day.

Mrs C Lagan Head of RE

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St Joseph’s Boys’ School Prospectus 2021

ADMISSIONS CRITERIA 2021

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Preference will be given to all children who nominate St Joseph’s Boys’ School as their first preference school on the application form.

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Pupils who have a sibling presently enrolled in the school or previously enrolled for at least 2 years or more or whose parent / grandparent is a past pupil.

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Pupils who reside in the Parish of Templemore (formerly St Eugene’s and Longtower) and St Mary’s Parish.

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Pupils for whom St Joseph’s is the nearest suitable school as the crow flies ie. nearest to the Child’s normal place of residence. This also includes children resident in the Waterside Parish of Glendermott and Strathfoyle St Columb’s Church (Chapel Road), Church of Immaculate Conception (Trench Road), St Mary’s Oratory Newbuilding).

Pupils who are the eldest boy or the only child in the family.

Pupils who have special circumstances. The claim to these must be supported by documented evidence which show that those circumstances would best be alleviated only through attendance at St Joseph’s rather than any other school.

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Pupils whose parent(s)/guardian(s) is a permanent member of the school staff or a member of the Board of Governors.

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Pupils from all the other primary schools in the Derry City area.

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Miss A Shiels

INDUCTION

• The Primary-Secondary Links Co-ordinator visiting the primary schools of every Year 8 pupil in January and again in June.

• Survival kit • Induction booklet

• Year 8 Mass.

• Open evening in January.

For more detailed information please visit our website: www.stjosephsderry.org.uk/admissions-criteria

• Welcome evening for parents in September.

• P7 taster day in June.

• Summer school in July.

• Sixth form prefects for each class to guide pupils as they settle.

Transport available from all areas of the city including the Waterside.

• Induction day in September.

• Personalised timetable pack and map.

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St Joseph’s Boys’ School Prospectus 2021

YEAR 8 PROFILE Martin Campbell Primary School: Rosemount Primary School

Why did you choose St Joseph’s?

I chose St Joseph’s because I have visited the school before whilst I was in Primary School to complete a number of activities and I really liked it. Even though I completed the transfer test you do not need the test to come here.

Favourite subject and why: I have two favourite subjects, English and ICT. I like English because my teacher is nice, and she makes English fun. I also like ICT as we get to learn about computers and about media and films. We also get to watch clips from some of our favourite films!

Best thing about being in St Joseph’s is: The best thing about St Joseph’s is that there is a wide range of subjects and we get to do a lot of really interesting activities to make the classes fun and interactive. In PE we get to play a lot of sports; football and basketball are my favourite. There are also lots of competitions and prizes to be won. I really enjoyed taking part in the Spooker Prize.

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James Campbell

Ben Curran

Lennan Doherty

Why did you choose St Joseph’s?

I chose St Joseph’s because whilst I was still in Primary School, we visited the school and took part in activities which I really enjoyed. I particularly liked the Minecraft events in the computer suite. Not only was this fun but it also helped me to learn about the school, find my way about and to see what the school has to offer.

Why did you choose St Joseph’s?

I chose St. Joseph’s as I went to the Open Night and knew it was the school for me.

I am so glad I chose St. Joseph’s as I have settled in really well and have made lots of new friends. I am also the class captain for my form class, which is a big responsibility.

Why did you choose St Joseph’s?

I chose St Joseph’s because when I watched a clip on the website I was impressed by the boys and how well they looked in their uniform. I visited the Open Night, and I was blown away by what they school had to offer, and I knew it was the right school for me.

Favourite subject and why: There are lots of subjects that we take part in every week. But if I had to choose one it would be Technology and Design. We get to design and create a lot of fun things even though we cannot go into the workshop due to COVID 19 at present.

Favourite subject and why: My favourite subject would have to be Maths. I am also starting to really enjoy Art and Science also as we get to do a lot of creative learning in those subjects.

Primary School: St Eithne’s Primary School

Favourite subject and why: History is my favourite subject because I have always had an interest in learning about the past. My teacher makes learning easy and engaging, as we do a lot of interactive activities from designing posters, soldiers and we even get to dress up sometimes in characters from the past!

Best thing about being in St Joseph’s is: The variety of subjects that we get to do is amazing.

The teachers make learning worthwhile and enjoyable! I also have made a lot of new friends and get to see my friends from Primary School too!

Primary School: Longtower Primary School

Best thing about St. Joseph’s: The best thing about St Joseph’s is the friends that you make. I have made some amazing friends and we have lots of laugh and fun. I am sure you will too if you decide St. Joseph’s is the school for you!

Primary School: Holy Child Primary School

Best thing about St. Joseph’s: I really like the variety of subjects that we get to do.

Even with Covid 19 we still get to do a lot of active tasks in class. For example, in TD we get to make things including our own Christmas decorations, which was really cool!

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St Joseph’s Boys’ School Prospectus 2021

CURRICULUM AT EACH KEY STAGE

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We offer a rich and varied curriculum from Key Stage 3 – Key Stage 5. We aim to ensure that all our students have access to a wide variety of subjects and areas that will enable them to acquire the skills necessary for lifelong learning and the qualities to become a responsible citizen in the 21st century. The range and flexibility of the curriculum affords students the opportunity to choose courses that best suit their individual needs and interests, and which will in time lead to their successful progression to either further education or employment

Key Stage 3 Curriculum Year 8-10: RE English French Spanish Irish Mathematics Science Technology & Design History Geography Art & Design Drama Music ICT PE Learning for Life & Work (including Home Economics)

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S U LT S E R GCSE

93.4% ACHIEVING 5+ GCSE

A*-C

Our Inspections by The Education and Training Inspectorate assessed the quality of teaching and learning at St Joseph’s and confirmed that St Joseph’s is a

“Very Good School.”

Again in May 2018, ETI stated that St Joseph’s Boys’ School has an

“Outstanding understanding of, and capacity for, self-evaluation leading to continuous improvement.”

Key Stage 4 Curriculum Year 11-12:

Key Stage 5 Curriculum Year 13 -14:

The following subjects in years 11 & 12 are core subjects: Religious Education Mathematics English Careers Education Double Award Science

The following subjects are available for study at AS/A Level. – Art & Design English Literature Geography Government and Politics History Mathematics Music Religious Studies Design Technology ICT Moving Image Arts Life and Health Science

Optional subjects: English Literature Art & Design Business Studies ICT Drama French/Spanish Music Motor Vehicle and Road Safety Studies PE Technology & Design Applied Business Studies Single Award ICT BTEC ICT Hospitality Occupational Studies *(Business and Services, Environment and Society, Technology and Innovation)

Geography Manufacturing GCSE Science Prince’s Trust Churches Trust History Government & Politics Health & Social Care Science Learning for Life & Work Leisure & Tourism Moving Image Arts Occupational Studies (Single Award) in school

BTEC National Level 3 Courses: Business Studies ICT Travel and Tourism Engineering Music Sports Studies Other courses will be available through the Foyle Learning Community.

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St Joseph’s Boys’ School Prospectus 2021

E X T E N D E D S C H O O L S At St Joseph’s Boy’s School we have a very successful programme that works cohesively with our parents and pupils. There is a wide array of activities on offer, with something to interest everyone. School activities and clubs run from 8 am starting with the breakfast club to 4:45pm.

As part of our extended schools programme some of the clubs we have to offer are: • Art Club • Breakfast Club • Hall of Fame • Health and Wellbeing for pupils and staff • Literacy Club • Film Club • Homework Club • Numeracy Club • Chemistry Club • The Creative Hub

PREFECT TEAM Our sixth form prefects are an essential aid to helping and guiding the incoming year 8 pupils as they make that transition from primary to secondary school. They help to aid an easy and smooth transition to school from day one. They assist with induction days in June and so our new year 8 boys will already recognise a familiar, friendly face when they come through the doors in September.

Some of the ways that the mentors help year 8 pupils: • Take pupils to each class and collect them at the end.

• Meet with them at break and lunch times.

• Assist them in general movement around the school.

• Help them get organised for lessons.

• Give them the confidence to settle quickly into new routines.

• Role model the benefits of working hard and achieving the highest outcome, regardless of interests and ability.

Sixth year prefects certainly play a very active role in creating and ensuring a safe and secure environment for our new students. The mentoring programmes have proven to be a huge success and have been instrumental in the building of positive relationships between the pupils in St. Joseph’s Boys’ School, as they act as role models to the younger pupils in the school.

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St Joseph’s Boys’ School Prospectus 2021

ACHIEVEMENT FOR ALL Sean Doherty

James Crampsey

Sean Rice

Matthew Devine

When I opened my results from the transfer test, I was devastated to have scored a C2 grade. I felt as if I could have done better, and I was apprehensive at the thought of going to St Joseph’s. However, all my worries disappeared when I entered the school building. Since the first day I walked into the school until now, I have been consistently supported by my classmates and my subject teachers.

Having been a Primary 7 pupil, I know how scary it can be when moving to a new school. You might worry about leaving your school friends and the teachers you know, and you hope you will know someone in your new class that will help you settle in. These worries however left me as soon as I arrived at St Joseph’s. I made new friends quickly. The staff were welcoming, and I was excited about the new subjects that I was going to study.

In my transfer test, I received a C2 grade which was not the result I was hoping for. However, upon entering St Joseph’s, I soon realised that this test would not affect the next chapter of my school life.

In my transfer test I received a D grade, and to be quite honest I felt like a complete failure. I was extremely nervous about starting my new school. However, that changed the moment I stepped through the doors of St Joseph’s. I found an environment that was warm, safe, and welcoming. The support I have received from staff from first year right up to upper sixth has been second to none.

Throughout my time here, I have enjoyed studying a range of subjects. When I started at St Joseph’s, the most exciting change for me was having this variety of curriculum choice, and every one of my teachers has supported me from the start.

Nothing is too big or too small; they always go out of their way to ensure that everyone achieves to the best of their ability. The staff nurtured me to achieve high GCSE results through their inclass teaching, after-school revision classes, and expert knowledge of the subjects.

I am studying Maths, Business Studies, and Politics for A-Level, and I am planning to go to Queen’s University Belfast to study Accountancy.

I believe that St Joseph’s has been instrumental in helping me to realise my full potential, allowing me to achieve my goals.

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I didn’t sit the transfer test, and it’s not a decision that I have regretted or that I felt affected my education. In my GCSE’s I got two A grades, four B’s, and a C. Currently I am studying History, ICT, and Moving Image Arts and I will go on to university next year.

Throughout my time at the school, the St Joseph’s staff have done everything they can to make sure that I have had an enjoyable educational experience. All my teachers continually push me to reach my full potential and think nothing of giving up their time after school to help me out.

No matter what your background or learning capabilities, everyone who walks through our gates is capable of great things, hence the school motto ‘Achievement for All’.

My dad and older brother went to St Joseph’s, and my little brother is currently studying here. Selecting St Joseph’s to complete your post-primary education will be a decision that you will not regret; I am grateful that it was the decision that my parents and I made six years ago.

When I got accepted, I was elated. I had seen amazing things about the school from attending the open night, and I had heard so much about it from talking with past pupils. In my time here, I have had many great experiences and opportunities, and I have built strong relationships with my peers and the teachers within the school. I have been given the chance to study many innovative subjects including Moving Image Arts, which I hope to pursue when I leave education.

At St Joseph’s there are many exciting clubs and activities on offer for instance H.E, Minecraft, and a range of sports clubs. Our school is a warm and welcoming environment; one with a community of staff that wants only the best for their pupils. In my time here, I have grown so much as a person, with St. Joseph’s helping to shape me into who I am today.

At A-Level, I am studying Art, Moving Image Arts, and Business Studies. Next year I aim to go to Queen’s University to study Film Studies and Production. I believe that going to our school has allowed me to reach my full potential; it has pushed me to do my very best. If I were to make the decision again, I would definitely choose to attend St. Joseph’s Boy’s School.

At St Joseph’s I have had so many opportunities to study new and exciting subjects such as Science, Business, and T&D. Academically I can say that I have achieved beyond my own expectations. At GCSE level I was very successful. I received 3 A* grades, 3 A’s, 3 B’s, and 1 C*. Currently I am studying Politics, History, and Business, and next year I hope to study International Politics at Queen’s University Belfast.

I have found all my teachers extremely encouraging, and they have given me the ability to succeed in all areas of life. One thing that I will take away from my time here is that you can achieve anything in life if you put your mind to it. I believe that a school should not be defined by whether it is a grammar school or not. At St Joseph’s I know that your son will be given every opportunity to excel academically and socially, regardless of whether it’s a grammar school or not.

If given the choice again today, I would choose St Joseph’s.

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St Joseph’s Boys’ School Prospectus 2021

MAKING AN INFORMED CHOICE At St Joseph’s we recognise that selecting a post primary school for your child to attend can be a difficult decision for parents. We can assure you that St Joseph’s is a progressive and supportive school that will meet the needs of your child, provide him with a positive educational experience and help him achieve his academic potential. St Joseph’s has always had and will continue to have a wide range of pupil ability. We have pupils who have taken the transfer test and achieved good grades. We also have many pupils who have chosen not to take the transfer test and move directly to their local school.

Parents and pupils often struggle with post-primary choice, particularly regarding the choice between a grammar school and a non-selective school. We can reassure you that standards of teaching and learning and expertise of staff has parity across all education

sectors. We want you to know your son will have access to a broad range of learning experiences and qualifications.

St Joseph’s has an ethos of ‘Achievement for All’ and will have programmes of study in place to meet the needs of your child at each Key Stage. Our aim is to ensure success at GCSE so that pupils can progress into our KS5 programme of study and state of the art Sixth Form centre.

The quality of education in any school cannot exceed the quality of its teaching staff. Our teaching staff and support staff are highly qualified, competent and experienced in their roles. Staff have been recipients of prestigious teaching awards for creativity and innovation in the classroom. The Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) have reported that many of the lessons observed during visits were categorised as ‘outstanding’. The sharing of reflective and effective practice continues to be a key feature of our staff training and development days.

All pupils leave our care having been given an experience of Christian community living to influence and support them for their future lives.

Senior Management Team

There is a very good rapport among

the boys and between the boys and the

staff which reflects the supportive and inclusive ethos of the school. The boys’ overall learning experiences are enhanced through the strong links with the community and outside agencies developed by the school.” ETI For five decades St Joseph’s has had an excellent track record of educating boys and young men.

Every year our pupils secure places in University and have excelled and developed successful careers in; Business, Teaching and Education, IT, Health and Social Care, Allied Health medical fields, the Arts and Sport. In this prospectus you can read about the experiences and achievements of some of our recent past pupils.

As someone who is a past pupil of St Joseph’s I have first-hand experience of the support and encouragement that my teachers gave me. This has played a great part in allowing me to reach my academic potential and helped lead me to my chosen career path.

As a School we can steadfastly say that choosing St Joseph’s for your child is a decision that you will not regret. We hope that you entrust us with your son’s post primary education, and we look forward to seeing him in September 2021.

Mr K Thompson

Head of Senior School

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St Joseph’s Boys’ School Prospectus 2021

PA R E N TA L V I E W

LIFE BEYOND ST JOSEPH’S

Making the right choices for our children is, and always will be, a difficult decision. As young parents, both teaching in St John’s P.S, my wife and I always felt that we had been guided by what our society told us to do.

Celebrating success

Our elder son, we were convinced, had to be sent to a grammar school but nine years later, as we were both older and much wiser, we didn’t let anyone dictate to us. We made a brilliant decision. We decided our other son St Joseph’s!

His amazing journey started approximately twenty years ago. The list could be endless but instead I’ve highlighted just a few: a He made great friends for life. b All of his teachers worked their socks off for him… nothing was too much trouble.

The class of 19/20 have successfully left St Joseph’s having all secured a place at University, Further Education, apprenticeships or gained employment. Several past pupils are currently studying a wide range of degrees from Computer Science to History and Politics. They had a somewhat different end to their time here at St Joseph’s. However, it was an occasion that was marked in a socially distanced way when students visited the school to collect their end of year pack with hoody and had an opportunity to say their goodbyes to a very proud staff.

c When he went there, he had no interest in Music but when he left, he could play four musical instruments to a high level!! d He achieved wonderful GCSE results e His A-Level results were even better. f The care, support and consideration of his teachers & the school community led him to completing a degree, postgrad & other academic courses.

Leaving him aside for a second… my grandson, who attended Holy Child P.S where I served as Principal for eighteen years, decided, with the support of his parents who work in Holy Child & Rosemount P.S. that he too should attend St Joseph’s.

He’s now in his second year and like my son has made super friends and receives wonderful support from all at St Joseph’s. He’s doing fantastically well and has a bright future ahead.

Deciding where to send your eleven-year-old child is a tough one but I can put my hand on my heart and recommend St Joseph’s to everyone. It will be a decision that you will have no regrets making. Establish a strong and trusting relationship with St Joseph’s. Support your child & the school and you’ll not be surprised with the outcome.

Good Luck

Charlie O'Donnell 20

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St Joseph’s Boys’ School Prospectus 2021

PA S T PU PI L E X PE R I E NC E S Jack Dunlop

Ciaran Vaudequin

David Farrell

Conan Meehan

(Past pupil 2005 – 2012)

(Past pupil 2004 – 2011)

(Past pupil 2007 – 2014)

(Past pupil 2004 – 2011)

My St Joseph’s experience is one that I will never forget or be able to thank the teachers and staff enough, for both the platform that they have given me both pastorally and academically.

I have always been proud to call myself a past pupil of St Joseph’s Boys’ School as I know I would not be where I am today if it wasn’t for this school. Prior to attending, I vividly remember being the only pupil in my primary class to achieve a grade D in my 11+ transfer exams. This had quite a big impact on me at such a young age as I felt somewhat inadequate compared to my friends who all went onto grammar schools.

St Joseph’s offered me the A-levels that I required to progress to university to study Engineering. The school provided me with what I needed to get to the next chapter in my life.

The determination of the teachers each and every day who inspire each pupil and installed the confidence and determination into each of us that we could, can, and will achieve our goals was remarkable.

I have come to realise it was a unique relationship that pupils and staff have at St Joseph’s. That has led me into my current job role working as a Building Services Engineer travelling across the UK. I would highly recommend St Joseph’s to any prospective student.

It’s the platform to propel you to the next stage in life, where you want to be.

I studied at St Joseph’s from 2004 to 2011 and developed a lot throughout the years with staff support. The teachers always went above and beyond to help me in every subject and regularly encouraged us to be active participants within class discussions, gradually rebuilding my confidence and enthusiasm towards education. It was quite ironic as I was no longer that grade D transfer student but was sitting with A* and A’s through the help and support at the school. It was an easy decision to continue my A-levels here as I had built a great relationship with all my teachers and friends who I still regularly speak to.

St. Josephs was my first choice when selecting my post-primary school and to this day it is a choice I am proud to have made. My family always instilled in me that success in my education would come from hard work and dedication and not solely the school I chose to attend.

The school moto ‘Achievement for All’ echoed this message and I knew that my success would be in my own control.

After achieving an A grade in the 11+ exam, I could have chosen to attend a grammar school, and I was encouraged to do so by my primary school teachers. Both my brothers had attended St. Joseph’s and always enjoyed their time there so it was an easy decision to make. My experience of St Joseph’s was entirely positive. I never considered myself to be academically brilliant, but the support and encouragement I received from my teachers helped me realise that I could do just as well as any grammar school pupil. I did well across my subjects, achieving 7As, 2Bs and a C at GCSE level. I chose creative subjects for my three A-level choices and thanks to the support of my teachers I excelled in these subjects, achieving A*AA.

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Leaving St Joseph’s, I went on to study a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture from 2011-2014, followed by a Master’s degree in Architecture from 2015-2017. This enabled me to work for two leading Northern Irish architectural firms and work in London for an award winning commercial architectural practice.

I would highly recommend this school to any prospective pupil as I can assure you that you do not need to attend ‘grammar schools’ to increase your overall educational performance. Attending a school like St Joseph’s that supports and enhances high quality student learning experiences can guide you to higher educational outcomes and ensure a fulfilling career paths.

I attended St. Josephs for 7 years, Year 8 right through to year 14, where I in total achieved 10 GCSE’s and 3 A-Levels which enabled me to continue to Queen’s University Belfast, where I studied Computing & Information Technology.

I graduated with a 2.1 in my degree and started straight into my Job as a Business Intelligence analyst in the Global Network company ‘Ciena’. I think back and I am always thankful to the staff that taught me and always encouraged me to strive to do my best. St Joseph’s enabled me to perform academically, but it is also where I developed a passion for Basketball which brought with it many awards, memories, and life lessons. St Joseph’s motto ‘Achievement for All’ is something that will stick with me for life as I continue my career and additional further education.

My A-level results led to me being offered a place on the BA Fine Art degree at Ulster University, where I subsequently went on to achieve a First Class Honours degree. I put these achievements down to the belief and confidence that were instilled in me at an early stage by my teachers at St Joseph’s.

After I graduated from University I obtained a job as the Student Outreach & Recruitment Officer for the University of Ulster. In this job I have witnessed the standard of teaching, support and facilities across schools in Northern Ireland. Each time I return to St Joseph’s, I am always impressed with how rich the learning environment is and what it continues to provide for pupils. I am immensely proud to be a St. Joseph’s Boys’ School alumni, and I know I am in good company.

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St Joseph’s Boys’ School Prospectus 2021

PA S T ORA L C A R E St Joseph’s Boys’ School celebrates excellent Pastoral Care every year and with every year group. Our successful Pastoral Care Programmes means your child is safe, happy and ready to perform to their full potential. All our staff have a responsibility for developing our pupil’s self-esteem, self-motivation and to help foster a positive attitude and approach towards accessing and engaging in a full and varied curriculum.

Our short-term goals in Year 8 will be to ensure our boys make a safe transition from primary school with a longer-term plan to prepare our boys for a world of academia and employment after their seven school years. This time will fly for Parents. All of our staff are invested in making this journey with you - our parents, through an enriching pastoral curriculum. Each year group has Form teachers, a Year Head and each Key Stage has a Head of School to allow all our boys appropriate care, support and advice.

The pastoral care in St Joseph’s primary aim is to provide a safe environment whilst building positive relationships rooted in respect and ensuring pupils are ready to learn. Pastoral Care is evidenced in the relationships in school between teacher and pupil, teacher and parent and among the pupils themselves.

We believe this is achieved daily in a school community that fosters relationships between staff and pupils that are warm, loving and respectful.

The foundation of building

self-esteem in boys is to

support them in their learning.

There is no care for learning without Pastoral Care.”

• Class rewards

#achievementforall

• Assemblies

Achievements and successes are celebrated throughout the year: • Prize giving

Our three school rules:

• Incentive trips

• Department postcards • Pupil of the Month BS 76005 Diversity & Inclusion

• Display of work • School representatives at events

READY RESPECT SAFE

• Pastoral peer roles as Head boy, Prefects, Class captain and vice-captain.

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St Joseph’s Boys’ School Prospectus 2021

PRIMARY SCHOOL LINKS As a school community, we pride ourselves in helping our students to transition smoothly into Year 8. It has been a somewhat difficult task this year to integrate activities with the many restrictions in place, however, with the aid of technology we have been able to make this possible. We continue to deliver many activities to Primary school children to complete, one of our favourites being the making Christmas decorations. Throughout the year students are invited into St Joseph’s so they can gain a unique insight into life at secondary school - this helps to put fears and anxieties at ease. Learning experiences have included: Minecraft workshops, Art and T&D projects, CSI Investigations, Language courses, Cookery classes, IZAC 9 workshops, Faith Friends, and Sports Taster sessions.

Our sixth form pupils also link with our local primary schools through paired reading programmes, working with pupils at all age groups. Last year alone we reached out to and linked up with 23 primary schools having over 1,000 pupils visit to take part in a variety of different activities: 310 P5 pupils, 250 P6 pupils, and 500 P7 pupils were involved in activities at St Joseph’s.

Over the past number of years Saint Eithne’s Primary School has been blessed

with the support offered by Saint Joseph’s to our primary seven children.

Our children have been afforded the opportunity to visit Saint Joseph’s on many occasions to participate in a range of activities which have included Minecraft, cookery, art and many sporting events.

SUMMER SCHOOL

Coordinators: Mr P Smith and Mr T O Brien

Every journey begins with the first step.

As part of our primary-secondary links, the Summer Scheme allows transition students the opportunity to attend a summer programme in early July. An important feature in promoting the scheme, and in organising and delivering it, is that it should be seen as different from school, not least because attendance is voluntary.

The programme aims to capture and hold the pupils’ attention and enthusiasm by creating an environment which is relaxed, informal, and fun.

The programme focuses on active learning and the use of recreational activities to advance the key skills of numeracy, literacy, and ICT as well as promoting social skills. The murder mystery day and launching rockets were particularly well received by the pupils. This year we built a model of the Peace Bridge, launched rockets in the yard, built Norman Castles on

the beach at Culdaff, painted a self-portrait, and of course, we had plenty of football and Minecraft.

High attendance rates are dependent on good quality programmes which are attractive to pupils, stimulate their interest, and provide for a sense of success and achievement. Pupils were given a very positive introduction to their new school. Feedback from parents has evaluated this support as one of the best ways to assist families during this difficult transition time. There is no doubt that attendance on the programme raises self-esteem and self-confidence.

It is a fantastic opportunity to meet new friends and it also leads to more positive attitudes about school.

On returning to school after each and every visit our children and staff have commented positively on the experiences, they have had in Saint Joseph’s thanks to the professionalism of the staff and warm welcome from their students. The visits have allowed our children the wonderful opportunity to experience a post primary school setting in person before making the permanent transition from primary school.

The positive experiences and support our children received from Saint Joseph’s have resulted in them feeling less anxious about moving on from primary to post primary education. I would like to thank the principal, staff and students of Saint Joseph’s for this support and hope that the relationship between Saint Eithne’s and Saint Joseph’s continues well into the future.”

Mr T McDowell Principal of St Eithne’s Primary School 26

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St Joseph’s Boys’ School Prospectus 2021

SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS PROVISION

UNIFORM

The robust and experienced approach to special educational needs at St Joseph’s Boys’ School is evident in the high outcomes for our pupils. The learning support team work tirelessly to support our pupils in a variety of settings. The SEN provision permeates all classrooms, adopting a personalised approach to learning for all.

We take pride in every aspect of our school and school uniform plays a very important role in this. Every pupil is expected to always wear a full school uniform, and to wear it with pride.

This also includes P.E uniform when appropriate, the correct equipment for class, and being prepared for the day ahead. We have our own uniform shop based in the school so that any student without a uniform will be sent there to borrow it for that day. The school has very high expectations of the uniform and strongly discourage any additional non-uniform items.

The learning experience of all SEN pupils is enhanced with digital literacy and numeracy programmes that are modified to meet all our pupils’ needs. We foster an inclusive ethos that underpins the school values of, “Achievement for All”.

Our pupils access learning across the curriculum in an inclusive environment. Programmes of study are linked with learning and teaching in each classroom, and pupils are encouraged to enhance learning through an Accelerated Reader, Nessy and Read Write, all of which can be used at home.

Pupils are also encouraged to engage in the additional support provided by a range of outside agencies. We are a school working with the growing needs of our community. We will work tirelessly to support parents to meet the changing needs of their child throughout key stages in the school.

We are proud of the relationships developed with all organisations working with individual pupils. Strategic links are sustained with ASD Services, Speech and Language Service and the Cedar Foundation working with students with disabilities.

“The learning experiences for all pupils are rooted in the relationships they have with each other and school staff. The SEN department is integral to all other departments and is motivated by an ethos of respect and high expectations for all our pupils.”

Mrs F Harrigan-Stewart Learning Support Manager

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Compulsory: • Green jumper with school colours V stripe • White shirt • School tie (junior, senior, 6th form) • Black trousers • Black blazer with school crest • Black shoes • White polo shirt with crest (during the summer months) PE Uniform: • School tracksuit – black with school crest • Green T-shirt with school crest • Black shorts • Trainers

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St Joseph’s Boys’ School Prospectus 2021

E X T R A - C U R R I C U L A R A C T I V I T I E S

CAREERS PROVISION

At St Joseph’s we offer a wide range of extra-curricular activities and clubs that pupils can get involved in and everyone is encouraged to participate in at least one. Just some of the activities on offer to students in junior school include:

Careers Education, information, guidance and advice is an integral element to the curriculum for pupils in years 10 to 14. The careers department work relentlessly to ensure that pupils have access to the most important and up to date information to ensure that they can make informed decisions regarding their future.

• Art Club • Film Club • Homework Club • Minecraft Club • Literacy Club • Numeracy Club • Chemistry Club • The Creative Hub • Football • Gaelic • Basketball • Athletics

Of course, there are also numerous clubs, trips and outings on offer to local events, reward trips, and event trips abroad!

Taking part in activities outside the classroom not only helps new year 8 pupils settle in much more quickly but contributes to their success in their studies too. Involvement in these clubs and activities also helps pupils meet new friends and offers a well-earned break.

A full list of the extra-curricular activities offered at St Joseph’s will be provided to pupils on their first few days at the school.

“Make sure you get involved” 30

Our sixth form pupils have gained successful progression to university, further education, and apprenticeships. The continuous delivery of Careers education throughout the school experience ensures that our pupils match their abilities and preferences to the right choice of career.

The programme provides a variety of experiences which will assist pupils in their decision making and further enhance their career opportunities. Pupils throughout their time at St Joseph’s attend Careers fairs, Interview skills sessions, STEAM week activities, Career days, Guest speakers and Industrial visits. Students avail of visits to local Colleges and Universities to gather information about courses available to help them make informed choices about the next step after school.

Year 13 (and some Year 12) students partake in work placements across the Derry area allowing our students to gain insight and experience in the workplace. The pupils thoroughly enjoy taking part in such activities and find the experience valuable to their future career.

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S T JO SE PH ’ S BOYS’ SCHOOL

St Joseph's Boys' School Westway Creggan Estate Derry Northern Ireland BT48 9NX

Telephone: 028 71262923 / 028 7126 2333 Fax: 028 7137 0032 Email: info@stjosephs.derry.ni.sch.uk