Dyca prospectus 2017 2018

David Young Community Academy

Prospectus 2017 - 2018 www.dyca.org.uk

Welcome

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Our Values

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Curriculum

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Student Leadership

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Careers Advice

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Academy Houses

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The Moyes Centre

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Physical Education

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Cadets

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Academy Day & Safety

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Dress Code

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Belonging . Listening . Serving . Persevering

CONTENTS

Admissions & Transition 15 1

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WELCOME

I am delighted to welcome prospective parents and students to the David Young Community Academy and to tell you about my vision for achievement in the future. Our prospectus gives you a snapshot of our academy and you can find much more about us on our website (www.dyca.org.uk).

Our open evening is on Wednesday 14th September 2016 at 6.00pm when you and your child can meet our dedicated staff and look around our 21st century state-of-the-art building and excellent facilities. When you visit, you will see our values of Belonging, Listening, Serving and Persevering being lived out by staff, students and governors. We look forward to seeing you there.

At DYCA we believe in encouraging all of our students to have high expectations and personal goals. We know that every student has their own individual potential and we are determined to help them to fulfil it. We know that the education which students receive at school is important and we are committed to helping each and every student develop skills that will help them to pursue a successful working life and a passion for learning, and values that will enable them to be responsible, confident and positive young adults.

Our staff are committed to providing a curriculum of exciting learning, both inside and outside the classroom and on the sports field, which meets the needs of students in order to prepare them for a changing world of new experiences and technologies, further education and careers. We offer academic and pastoral support for all of our students so that they are able to face new challenges with confidence and are happy as they work towards their goals and career aims.

We are very proud to be an improving and popular academy for young people of all backgrounds and abilities. We are determined that all our students receive the best possible education in a Christian ethos so that they can be the best they can in whatever future they choose for themselves.

Kind regards

Jeremy Richardson Principal DYCA

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BISHOP DAVID YOUNG David Young Community Academy is named in recognition of Bishop David Young’s extensive work in education both nationally and here in Leeds. He was a great supporter of educational initiatives and institutions, especially those that fostered personal responsibility together with creative thinking and action.

In 2005 when Bishop David laid the foundation stone of the academy he said, “Our future lies in the hands of our children and we owe it to them, to ourselves and to the world to give them the best possible preparation…In years to come we shall be able to look back and thank God for the abilities, the commitment, the hard work, the inspired teaching and creative learning which we know will be part of this enterprise. May God bless you in this undertaking.”

Bishop David was very proud of the DYCA and saw in its development and growth the principles, values and challenges which were close to his heart and had nurtured his life and ministry. Furthermore, he was proud to see these values taking root in the work and life of the academy, its staff and students and their concern and care for each other.

Bishop David died in 2008 but in the words of one of the students, “His life and work continue to inspire the entire academy.”

MISSION

The DYCA is a safe and secure environment underpinned by Christian values. We work within the wider community, promoting lifelong learning, benefiting all learners and contributing to local regeneration by: • Valuing all faiths and actively celebrating diversity.

• Appreciating the uniqueness of every person and working to build self-esteem.

• Ensuring that each student receives the highest possible quality of education suited to their individual needs and aptitudes.

• Focussing on excellence and challenging everyone to achieve their best.

• Nurturing supportive and productive relationships based on mutual respect and trust.

• Valuing and fostering creativity, imagination, responsibility and a love of learning.

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ETHOS

The ethos of the DYCA, in keeping with the mission set out and the values embodied therein, is demonstrated in its daily life.

In the academy we: • Actively seek to develop a love for learning.

• Promote inclusive learning for all.

• Work within a framework of discipline which is also confident of forgiveness.

• Value worship as a part of daily life.

• Respect the faith of all members.

• Encourage an appreciation for the beauty of creation and recognise our responsibility to care for the environment.

CURRICULUM YEAR 7 & 8 In years 7 and 8 students study a broad and balanced curriculum designed to help them develop mastery in the core curriculum and to develop interest, skills and knowledge in a range of other subjects. There is an emphasis placed on developing numeracy and literacy so that they are well prepared to access the whole curriculum. Teaching seeks to develop in students the vital skills of resilience and independence, so that they start to take increasing responsibility for their learning.

All students study English, mathematics, science, computer science, history, geography, religious education, art, music, dance, drama, technology (including food and nutrition and design technology) and PE. At DYCA we will develop students’ spiritual, moral, emotional and social understanding and skills through a PSHCE programme as well as through other parts of the curriculum.

YEAR 9, 10 & 11 In years 9, 10 and 11 students follow a curriculum that prepares them for a range of GCSE or equivalent qualifications. All students follow courses leading to GCSEs in English, English Literature, mathematics, science, core PE, PSHCE and religious education. In science, most students will study towards a combined science double award (2 GCSEs), though some will have the opportunity to study for triple science GCSEs in biology, chemistry and physics (3 GCSEs).

In addition, students follow three optional subjects, selected from a range that typically includes: History Physical Education Sociology Geography Psychology Art and Design Business Studies Photography Computer Science Creative iMedia Engineering Music Design Technology Dance Food Preparation and Nutrition Drama The actual subjects offered each year depends on the demand and interest of students, who make their option choices in year 8.

SIXTH FORM At DYCA, we know our students well and for many of them, staying on here to join our sixth form is an excellent choice. They will be able to study in an environment that they know and with teachers that they know, while also feeling that they have moved on due to the different study patterns and working relationships that exist. The course offer is highly flexible and can respond to the changing needs of each cohort. For the latest sixth form offer, please consult our website.

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STUDENT LEADERSHIP Ensuring our students are given the opportunity to openly voice their opinions is an integral part of the academy’s philosophy. The Senior Student Leadership Team (SSLT) consists of Year 11 students who liaise with staff to offer perspectives on how the academy is managed and how it can improve. The group, which represents the interests of all students, is created following a professional application and interview process, giving students valuable experience which helps to prepare them for successful futures. The main purpose of the SSLT is to give our students a voice, to ensure they feel that their opinions are valued and utilised in the academy’s continuous development and improvement. As a direct result of this, students involved increase their abilities and enhance their educational experience.

Teamwork, communication and citizenship skills are developed and students are given the opportunity to create and really influence the community they are part of.

Our SSLT consists of Head Boy, Head Girl, 2 Deputy Head Boys and 2 Deputy Head Girls.

REWARDS At the DYCA all students are rewarded for their good choices, behaviour and work. Students can be given reward points by any member of DYCA staff. Students can also be deducted points for any negative behaviour too.

Once enough points have been accrued they can then be spent on a wide range of fantastic gifts such as pencil cases, water bottles, headphones and speakers. The Rewards Shop is open every Monday and Tuesday break time and Form Tutors can update students on how many points they have, ready to spend them at the shop at break time.

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CAREERS AND INDEPENDENT ADVICE AND GUIDANCE During their time at DYCA, students have to make a number of important decisions about subject choice and future study and work plans. DYCA understands the need for accurate and well-judged advice and guidance at these key decision making times, and our full-time experienced, independent advice and guidance counsellor is on hand to provide timely support to groups and individuals at these times.

Through PSHCE and careers counsellor input, students will be guided to make good subject choices in year 8 for their KS4 study. During year 10 and 11, the focus shifts to helping students make the most appropriate choices about post 16 education and training, and the school provides truly independent advice about the best programmes at the most suitable places for each student. In the sixth form, students are guided and supported in their next step decisions, whether that is help with university applications or support into apprenticeships or work.

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ACADEMY HOUSES Students at the DYCA belong to one of six houses; each house is a family consisting of students from different year groups and members of staff. In each year group from years 7 to 10, students are placed into six form groups by house. Students in year 11 are grouped so that they receive focused subject support according to need. For example, those students who need additional support to further their progress in English will be in a form group with an English teacher to receive additional tuition. Groups are changed during year 11 to meet the changing needs of students.

Our students take great pride in their houses and a good-natured rivalry exists between them. The house system celebrates our students and their achievements and encourages them to develop as team players. The houses are named in dedication to inspirational figures whose lives and work enthuse and motivate the students to achieve excellence.

Innovative and hugely influential British engineer.

Intelligent and inquisitive American who developed a computer language for the whole world to use.

Talented artist, Internationally acclaimed musician, engineer, architect and winner of inventor, scientist and the Pritzker Architecture mathematician.

Prize.

Father of civil engineering whose work bettered the lives of ordinary people.

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Greatest aero-engineer of the twentieth century.

THE MOYES CENTRE Our satellite resource centre situated next to the academy provides us with high quality facilities for teaching, one-to-one and small group support and as a resource for local community groups who require meeting and conference space.

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PHYSICAL EDUCATION Vision Here at DYCA we want every student to be equipped to have a healthy and active lifestyle, not only during their time at the academy but far beyond into adult life. We aim to teach students the knowledge and skills necessary in order for our students to be physically educated. We also believe that competition is important and want to encourage students to compete in activities of their choice and celebrate their sporting success, both in and out of the academy.

Curriculum PE During years 7 and 8, students will participate in two PE lessons per week. Over these two years, students will experience a broad range of sports and physical activities. We want our students to experience a vast range of activities so that they can make informed decisions in the future about what activities they may wish to participate in throughout their life. In years 9, 10 and 11 students will follow a narrower pathway of activities which is linked to their physical activity preferences. Some students will aim to develop their leadership skills with a chance of gaining additional qualifications.

Qualifications Students have the option of studying GCSE PE at the start of key stage 4. This qualification will equip students to progress to further and higher education. There are a vast number of careers within the sports industry and the GCSE PE qualification is a good step in the right direction towards many of these.

Extra-curricular activities We love to see as many students as possible making full use of our sports facilities in extra-curricular activities. We offer a range of different activities, from fitness training to trampolining. Clubs are available before and after school and there is also opportunity for recreational activities at lunch times. We have teams in football, rugby, netball, rounders and athletics that represent the academy in fixtures throughout the year.

Sporting success A number of our current and previous students have experienced huge sporting success, both in and out of the academy. Previous successes have included our year 11 boys’ rugby team who were the champions of Leeds. This team also had a number of Super League Academy players. Our year 9 and 10 girls’ rugby teams have again experienced some fantastic success by beating all other schools in Leeds.

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CADETS The Combined Cadet Force provides huge opportunities for students in the academy. The main aim is to build teamwork by promoting the qualities of responsibility, self-reliance, resourcefulness, endurance and perseverance. Cadets are offered the chance to attend Summer Camp at an army or RAF base where their year’s training is assessed. Adventure training activities include flying, shooting, kayaking, canoeing and climbing.

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ACADEMIC DAY Lesson

Start

Finish

Breakfast and Students Arrive

08.00 08.30 08.50 09.50 10.50 11.10 12.10 13.00 14.00 15.00

08.30

Form Time

Lesson 1 Lesson 2 Break

Lesson 3 Lunch Lesson 4 Lesson 5 Enrichment and Intervention (Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday)

08.50 09.50 10.50 11.10 12.10 13.00 14.00 15.00 16.35

SAFETY & SECURITY At DYCA we have over 1000 students and we recognise our moral and statutory responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of our students. We endeavour to provide a safe and welcoming environment where children are respected and valued.

We are always alert to the signs of abuse and neglect and always follow our procedures to ensure that children receive effective support, protection and justice. Our designated safeguarding lead is Miss Jane Shaw.

We have an anti-bullying policy which is available on the academy website. Our ‘Safer Schools’ police officer, who works at the academy 3 days a week, is here to support students, staff and parents.

Good punctuality and attendance are imperative for students to make progress and achieve. Preparation for the academy day starts at home, setting off on time, with the correct uniform and being prepared for the day ahead. There is a dedicated attendance team made up of attendance leaders, pastoral leaders and an Assistant Principal that oversee this important area. This team closely monitors the punctuality and attendance of students and they are there to support families when needed. There is also an attendance hotline to further help support the good attendance of pupils, allowing parents and carers to contact the academy to inform us of any issues. Attendance is a key element of any students’ education. Research shows that 73% of students who have 95% attendance achieve 5 A*- C GCSEs.

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DRESS CODE The academy places great emphasis on the importance of academy uniform in creating an atmosphere of pride, smartness and discipline.

Uniform DYCA skirt or DYCA trousers (boys’ and girls’ styles available) White shirt and DYCA tie or open-neck white blouse and DYCA scarf DYCA jacket (boys’ and girls’ styles available) DYCA bag (or plain black rucksack) Black shoes (strictly no trainers or converse pumps) Headgear only permitted if required by religious observance No jewellery, other than a wristwatch Plain black V neck sweater (optional) PE Kit Green DYCA polo-shirt or DYCA rugby top Black shorts or black tracksuit bottoms Additional items (AfPE) Black football socks Black skins or leggings Gum shield for football, rugby, Australia rules football and hockey Shin pads for hockey and football (FA regulations) Appropriate non-marking indoor trainers Football boots

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ADMISSIONS 180 new students will be welcomed into our Year 7 at the start of the academy year.

Students are admitted in accordance with the DYCA Admissions Policy and this is coordinated by the local authority through its Coordinated Admissions to Secondary Schools process.

To apply for admission, parent/carers should complete the common preference form online or request a paper copy from the local authority. All applicants will be required to attend the Fair Banding Assessment at the Academy on Friday 25th November or Saturday 26th November 2016 at 09.30am.

Students who have taken this assessment will be considered first for admission.

A fair representation of students from each band of ability will then be admitted; priority will be given to students within each band, according to published DYCA criteria (see the Admissions Policy on the DYCA website).

TRANSITION At DYCA we want our pupils to be happy, to enjoy school, and to achieve high academic standards, whilst also helping them to develop emotionally and socially. It is crucial that we make sure the transition process is thorough and helpful for everyone. Pupils are actively encouraged to be involved in decision-making, volunteering and supporting the community, developing positive relationships, dealing with major life changes and building confidence.

All year 6 pupils transferring to DYCA visit us one evening with their parents, before they start, to meet their new form tutors, senior staff and some of the more senior students at the academy. Prior to joining us they also spend at least one day with us, when all the other students are out of the academy. On that day we involve them in specialist events, organise their dinner cards and introduce them to the other new year 7 students. We also offer a transition Summer School to all new year 7 pupils.

We have a long history of collaborating with our local primary partners, using information they provide about students joining us to create forms and teaching groups where students feel secure and comfortable, but challenged academically.

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David Young Community Academy

Bishops Way Leeds LS14 6NU T: 0113 273 9100 E: info@leafacademytrust.org.uk

www.dyca.org.uk