Wisbech Grammar School Lent Term 2018 Mr C N Staley Headmaster Mr T I McConnell-Wood Senior Deputy Head Mrs K Neaves Senior Deputy Head Magdalene House Miss T V Castledine Deputy Head Academic Mr P G Logan Deputy Head Operations Mrs N J Miller Bursar Mrs S M Simmons Human Resources Manager LOWER SCHOOL (1st, 2nd & 3rd FORMS) Dr K J Mann Head of Section Mrs S D Cooper Deputy Head of Section MIDDLE SCHOOL (4th & 5th FORMS) Mr T W Calow Head of Section Mrs A S Ogston Deputy Head of Section UPPER SCHOOL/6th FORM Mr P W Timmis Dr S J Miller Mr A C Laybourne Miss K L Taylor
Head of Section Senior Tutor Deputy Head of Section Deputy Head of Section
The Senior School is open from 0745 until 1735 each week day
Dates when Grade Cards, Achievement Profiles or Reports are sent to parents/guardians are clearly indicated. Should these fail to appear then they should contact the School. For the very latest sports fixture information and team lists, visit www.wgssports.co.uk
Room Key HC: LR: ASH: TS: RH: 77: LI:
Hazel Centre Leonard Room Alan Salmon Hall The Studio Russell Hall Room 77, Dwight Centre Library
Activities and Clubs Wisbech Grammar School offers a wide range of Clubs and Activities both during and after the end of the School day. For full details of this term’s programme, please see the Co-curricular Booklet on the School website.
WEEKLY ACTIVITIES Breakfast Club (Skelton Hall) Open daily 0745 – 0820 Computer Rooms (54 & 56) Open daily 1230 – 1310 and 1630 – 1730 Library Open daily 1230 – 1310 Art Rooms Open after school – See Art staff Homework Club (46) Open daily 1630 – 1730
Officials, Prefects and Captains School Officials 2017-2018
Heads of School:
Deputy Heads of School: Senior Prefects:
Tarn Chamberlain James and Oliver Mann Katy Landles and James Horsburgh Hetty Beckett Harry Beresford-Peirse Eden Cooper Anna Kober Zachariah Lee Cameron Mauremootoo Harriet Munson Helena Parkinson Arran Shipley Matilda Suiter
Form Prefects 2017-2018 1J Zara Jutsum Chloe Wright Cameron Brown 1R Jennifer Ross Dina Aldrich Joseph Mayes 1S Asena Yendley Lianne Goates Jake Slender
Captains
Netball Captain: Boys’ Hockey Captain: Boys’ Rugby VII’s Captains: Girls’ Rugby VII’s Captains:
Hetty Beckett Joseph Mayes Arran Shipley and Oliver Mann Matilda Suiter and Jennifer Ross
Term Dates 2018 Lent Term 2018 Begins: Monday 8 January 2018 Ends: Friday 23 March 2018
Half-term Holiday:
Monday 12 February to
Friday 16 February 2018 nclusive
Trinity Term 2018 Begins: Monday 16 April 2018 Ends: Friday 6 July 2018
May Bank Holiday:
Monday 7 May 2018
Half-term Holiday:
Monday 28 May to
Friday 1 June 2018 inclusive
Michaelmas Term 2018
Begins:
Ends:
Half-term Holiday:
Wednesday 5 September 2018 Wednesday 12 December 2018 Thursday 18 October to Friday 26 October inclusive
Staff Inset Dates Friday 5 January 2018 Monday 3 September 2018 Tuesday 4 September 2018
Governors and Staff Governing Body Chairman: Dr D Barter, MB, BS, MRCP, FRCPCH, DCH Vice Chairman: Mr C Goad, BSc, ACA Fellow appointed by the Master, Magdalene College, Cambridge: Prof J Raven, MA, PhD (Cantab), MA (Oxon), LittD (Cantab), FSA FRHistS Mrs J Bodger, BEd Hons Mr R Calleja, MD, MSc(Urol), FRCS(Urol) Dr K Hart, MBChB, FRCPCH The Venerable Hugh McCurdy, BA, Archdeacon of Huntingdon and Wisbech Mr I MacLachlan Dr C Mair BSc, BVetMed, MRCVS Mrs E Morris, LLB Dr Q Wong, MB.BS, FRCGP, DRCOG, Dip Palliative Medicine Clerk to the Governors – Mrs K L Massen (Headmaster’s PA) Any member of the Governing Body may be contacted by writing, c/o the School
Teaching Staff Mr C N Staley, BA, MBA Headmaster Mr T I McConnell-Wood, BSc Senior Deputy Head, Business Studies/ Economics, Child Protection Officer Miss T V Castledine, MA, MMus Deputy Head Academic, Music Mr P G Logan, BSc Deputy Head Operations, Maths *Mr M Arnold BEng Computer Science, Maths Mr T W Calow, BA Head of Middle School, German *Mr T D Chapman, MA Government & Politics, History Miss A M Clayton, BA English Mr C Cole, BSc Physics *Miss D C Cook, BSc Biology, Sport *Mrs S D Cooper, BA Textiles, Art & Design, Deputy Head of Lower School Miss S Cross, BA English *Mr A Duncan GTP Performing Arts Mrs S Duncan BSc Technical Theatre Manager, Drama, Speech & Communication Skills *Mr S Emerson, BA History Mrs L E Feaviour, BA Textiles, Art and Design *Mrs S C Fox, BA, MSc Lower School Science *Mr R D Frost, BEd Design Technology Mr D S Garfoot, BSc Head of Outdoor Learning, PE & Sport, Geography, Head of House, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Co-ordinator, Deputy EVC *Mrs V Garment BA, MA Business Studies/Economics, Head of Academic Administration *Miss J M Gomm, BSc Psychology, Sport Mrs S M Goodier, BSc PE & Sport, Head of House Mr P J Harrison, BA Art & Design, Head of House Mr V Hart, BSc Mathematics *Mr G E Howes, BSc Mathematics Mr M A Jarvis Hockey Coach, Design & Technology *Mr T Jestin, MA Lower School Modern Foreign Languages, French, Spanish *Mr R D Killick, BSc Geography, Professional Tutor
Miss J L Lasouska, BSc Biology *Mrs E Lawrence, BA Leader of Religious Studies Mr A C Laybourne, MSc PE & Sport, Deputy Head of Upper School/6th Form, Head of Rugby Dr K J Mann, BA, PhD Head of Lower School, History Dr S J Miller, BSc, PhD Biology, Senior Tutor *Mrs J M Missin, BA Music *Mrs N P Neighbour, MA Upper School Modern Foreign Languages, French Mr G H Nunnerley, BSc Geography, Careers Advice, EVC *Mrs A S Ogston, BSc Mathematics, Deputy Head of Middle School, PSHCE, Child Protection Officer *Dr G S Paine, BSc, PhD Chemistry Mr I Rodriguez, BA Spanish, Head of House *Dr A J L Shillings, MSc, PhD Upper School Science, Physics Mrs E L Simmonds, BEd Leader of Academic PE Mrs M M Skinner German *Mrs A L Sloan, BSc, MA Food & Nutrition Dr E Stanley Isaac, BSc, PhD SENCO, Science *Mr M P Stump, BA Art & Design, Child Protection Officer Miss K L Taylor, BA Geography, Deputy Director of Examinations, Deputy Head of Upper School/6th Form *Mr N Taylor PE & Sport, Cricket Mr C Thursby, BA, MA Mathematics, Director of Examinations *Mrs K Timmis, BA, MEd English Mr P W Timmis, BSc Head of Upper School/6th Form, Physics, French Mrs M Tooke, BSc Food and Nutrition *Mr P J A Webb, BA Director of Sport, History Mr J D Williams Sports Coach  *=Head of Department
Information for pupils Responsibilities Yours, as pupils at Wisbech Grammar School: With rights come responsibilities, and these responsibilities are: With regards to your work: • • • • • • •
Try your hardest and never settle for less than your best Allow others to learn Show scholarship Take care, and have pride in, the presentation of your work Hand in fully completed work, on time Complete your homework diary Seek help from your teachers or form tutor if you encounter difficulties
In other areas of school life: • • • • •
Demonstrate a full commitment to school life and its wider activities Use your right to a voice effectively and in ways that will improve the School Respect and support your peers Take action if you see something that is unfair or might be viewed as bullying Treat the School facilities sensibly
You are not allowed to: • • • •
Express views that are intolerant, hurtful or disrespectful Disrupt the learning of others Undermine the values of the School Defy those in authority
Ours, as teachers at Wisbech Grammar School: To fulfill our responsibilities we will aim to: • Educate you in the broadest sense, making learning stimulating and challenging • Help you to develop effective working practices making you an independent learner • Encourage you to think independently • Mark your work in a way which allows you to make progress • Give honest and helpful reports and feedback • Stop and deal with any bullying or unkindness • Listen to you and treat you fairly We will aim not to: • Accept work from you that is not your best or ‘good enough to get by’ • Let you get away with interfering with the work of others or preventing others from learning and reaching their potential
Information for pupils Ground Rules for Wisbech Grammar School Pupils Your appearance: • • • • • • •
You must be smart, neat and tidy at all times Blazers/jackets must be worn at all times Girls’ skirts must be of a suitable length Hoodies and other non-uniform items must not be worn Hair must be neat, tidy and unobtrusive in style and colour All 6th Formers must wear the School badge on their jacket lapel Coats and scarves must not be worn in lessons
Your belongings: • • • •
Bags must be with you or in your locker or on the designated shelves Don’t leave belongings in your locker overnight All phones and other electronic devices should be used appropriately: they may be used discreetly during break and the lunch hour Don’t drop litter: use the bins provided
Arriving at and leaving school: • You must be in School for registration at 0830 each day • You must attend afternoon registration at 1315 • If you miss registration you must sign in at Reception • 6th Formers only may leave the School premises at lunchtime • They must sign out and in again at Reception • The Hudson Centre is out of bounds • After 1630 you must be in an after-school activity, the homework club or the IT room • You are not allowed to leave the premises and then return later on to be collected or to catch the Late Bus
Punctuality: • Lateness is not acceptable • You are expected to arrive punctually at all lessons/activities/other commitments
Attendance: • All absences must be supported by a parental letter • Permission for planned absences should be sought from school • You may not miss a lesson without permission • Permission to play in Sports fixtures must be sought in advance • You should not visit your locker between lessons • 6th Formers must not book driving lessons during the School day. Driving tests should be arranged outside the School day whenever possible
Library: • The Library is for work, research and quiet reading • You should not disrupt other pupils’ work or concentration
Participation: We encourage you to participate fully and actively in extra-curricular activities and the Section Forum. Commitment is a vital component in that participation. Being part of a team, group, club or other body of people means that the success of the whole venture depends on your continued consistent involvement: other people need you to be there in the same way that you need their presence. Consequently you have a responsibility to go to practices, rehearsals, meetings, etc, for any endeavour to which you make a commitment. This may sometimes mean that you have to make sacrifices. It is an honour to be selected to represent your school and we take for granted that you will take part in, for example, sports teams or musical groups. If there is a clash with outside activities, we expect you to honour your school commitment.
Information for pupils School Hours 0745 – 0830 0830 0835-0840
Breakfast Club Registration Movement
0840 0930-0935 0935
Period 1 Movement Period 2
1025-1045
Break
1045 1135-1140 1140
Period 3 Movement Period 4
1230-1315
Lunch
1315 1320 1340 1420-1425 1425 1515-1520 1520
Registration Assembly/Form Period Period 5 – Activities Movement Period 6 Movement Period 7
1610-1630 1620 1630-1730 1735
Break Buses depart for those leaving at this time Homework and IT Clubs/Rehearsals/Activities Buses depart
Assembly/Form Time Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
Full School Assembly Form Period/Section Assembly House Meetings Form Period/Section Assembly Full School Assembly
The School is open from 0745 until 1735. Parents should note that, outside those hours, no responsibility can be accepted for pupils, parents or others on any part of the School’s property unless attending a specific activity, function or event, arranged and supervised by the Governors, Headmaster or staff of the School. If you are late into school you must register at Reception.
Absences Parents are asked to phone into the School if you are absent due to illness: a letter must be sent on your return in order to explain your absence. In this way it is often easier to help with catching up with missed work. If it is likely that you will be absent for some time, please contact the form tutor concerned and arrangements can be made to help.
Leaving the Premises No pupils may leave the premises without parental or staff permission. If you are arriving/leaving during the course of the School day, you must sign in/out at Reception. If you feel unwell at any point during the School day, you should go to Reception. If it is decided that you need to go home, the receptionist will contact your parents/ guardians for you. You should not make this call. Only 6th Formers may leave the School premises at lunchtime; they should sign out at Reception and back in on their return, which should be before afternoon registration. All pupils who pass their driving test and who will be driving to/from school must complete the relevant form, which can be found in the 6th Form information booklet and which can also be obtained from the Head of Upper School/6th Form. This form must be signed by parents and provides details about the vehicle and passengers who may be regularly transported by the pupil in question. All parents will be asked to sign a form at the start of the School year stating that they are happy for their son/daughter to travel with another pupil in their car, either to or from School or at lunchtime. Licensed premises (except supermarkets) are out of bounds during the School day. This includes off-licences and betting shops.
Information for pupils Homework and Marking Homework: Homework will be set regularly in accordance with the Homework Timetables set for the academic year. These are distributed to pupils and parents at the beginning of the Michaelmas Term. They will also be able to access their homework at home or in School by logging on to Firefly. When setting homework, teachers will make clear “What I am looking for�. Homework is set on the following basis: 1st and 2nd Form 3rd Form 4th and 5th Form 6th Form
2 subjects on 3 nights each week, with 3 subjects on the other nights. Art/Textiles, DT/F&N, Computing and Music will each set one homework per fortnight. A pupil is expected to spend up to 20 minutes on each subject except those set fortnightly, where the expectation is 30 minutes. 3 subjects per night. A pupil is expected to spend up to 25 minutes on each subject (20 minutes for Modern Foreign Languages homeworks). 3 subjects per night, with 4 on one night. A pupil is expected to spend up to 30 minutes on each option subject homework and up to 40 minutes on each English and Maths homework. 6th Form pupils should expect to spend approximately 4 hours per week on each subject in Private Study or at home. In addition to this, they are expected to spend time on wider reading and independent research.
Pupils are allowed to nominate two Period 5 slots (one for the 1st Form) each week where they may work on homework, rather than attending an extra-curricular activity. If pupils have a problem with a homework, they should seek help from the teacher as soon as possible, ideally well before the work is due to be handed in.
Information for pupils Homework and Marking continued There is a range of tasks which can be set for homework, including ones that are internet-based. In addition, some homework tasks may be extended to cover more than one homework session. Pupils who fail to complete homework in a satisfactory way or by the deadline will initially be dealt with by the subject teacher with the support of the Head of Department. A pupil who fails to complete a homework by the deadline on more than one occasion will be given a departmental detention. If a pupil continues to miss homework deadlines, a detention will be set by the Head of Section. Persistent offences may result in a Saturday detention. Marking: Marking should show pupils how they have performed on a given piece of work or in a test and help them to make improvements. This will be done by considering “What went well” and “Even better if..”. Teachers at Wisbech Grammar School encourage pupils to reflect on their achievements.
Grade Cards/Achievement Profiles Grade Cards (1st to 5th Form) / Achievement Profiles (6th Form) Aims and expectations The purpose of a grade card / achievement profile is to provide pupils and parents with a snapshot of progress in the subjects currently studied. It complements information supplied about each pupil through the assessment of work, in written reports and by discussion at parents’ evenings. It seeks to promote discussion between the pupil, teacher, parents, and tutor, and provide a realistic and constructive appraisal of each pupil’s performance as the academic year progresses. The grades reflect the perception of staff for the whole period of time since the last Grade Card/Parents’ Evening. The teacher will select the grade which they feel reflects the overall achievement or engagement and effort demonstrated by the pupil. In public exam years, Achievement Level Descriptors will be relative to the assessment system in question. It may be the case that pupils who have largely received the highest available grades in their previous school years, now find that it is much more challenging to attain the top grades, either for attainment or for effort. Achievement Level Descriptors: 1st to 5th Form (Grade Cards)
Your work is of an exceptional and consistently high standard – level 9 Your work is of a very high standard – level 8/7 Your work is of a good standard – level 6/5 Your work is of a satisfactory standard – level 4 Your work is yet to reach that of level 4 – level 3 or below NB: For pupils currently in 5th Form only, 2017-2018 GCSE results are now graded using numbers from 9-1 with the best being 9. The picture below demonstrates the correlation of the old letter system with the new number system now in place. 5th Form pupils will receive number gradings in the majority of their GCSE subjects, whilst a handful of legacy specifications will receive letter grades using the old A*-E system.
Achievement Level Descriptors: 6th Form (Achievement Profiles)
Information for pupils Grade Cards/Achievement Profiles continued Grades A*-U (in-line with A-Level grading) Other Grades on the Grade Card / Achievement Profile Engagement and effort descriptors will also appear and the list below describes these types of attitude or behaviour. • Attitude to learning – positive approach; perseverance and resilience; attentiveness; seeking help when necessary; independent learner; ability to collaborate; reflective thinking • Meeting deadlines & organisation – handing in work on time (both homework and completing tasks in class), bringing correct books; equipment; kit to lessons; punctuality to lessons • Behaviour – Observes class rules; shows respect to teachers and other pupils; respects property Achievement Level Descriptors: Excellent, Good, Satisfactory, Inconsistent, Unsatisfactory For further detailed information on the reporting and assessment cycle, a Parent Guide to Reporting is available from Pupil Services. Questions a pupil (and parent / guardian) might use for reflection after a Grade Card / Achievement Profile • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Where have I made good progress and where has my progress been slower? Why this has happened? What specific targets could I set for my work and how will I know if I have succeeded in reaching those targets? Where I am ‘good’ or ‘excellent’: How have I achieved this success and could I bring this attitude into other subjects? Do I seek to understand things from the perspective of other people? Do I work collaboratively and independently? What other types of articles or books could I read to further extend my understanding? Are there subject clubs or events I could attend to develop my interest or understanding? Have I talked to my teacher to ask what extra work I could be doing? Where I am ‘satisfactory’: Am I willing to share my ideas and thoughts in lessons and, if not, what am I afraid of? Am I persevering and being open-minded? Am I proud of all my work when I have finished it? Am I looking to extend myself further or am I waiting to be extended by the teacher?
Uniform The purpose of a school uniform is to ensure that all pupils are identified with the School and all appear neat and inconspicuous. School uniform is formal attire and, as such, it is inappropriate to wear it informally. The School has a high reputation; its smart, identifiable pupils are a large part of this. Uniform should be worn on your way to and from school, during the School day and on formal School occasions, as directed. If you really try, you can dress in a way that observes the letter but not the spirit of the uniform regulations. If, as a result of your efforts, you stand out from the rest, your dress will be judged unacceptable. All your clothing should be marked with your name.
Uniform for GIRLS in the 1st to 5th Forms inclusive: (* Starred items are only available from www.schoolblazer.com) Blazer*
Navy blue with pocket badge
Skirt*
Navy blue, pleated. Girls in the 3rd, 4th and 5th Forms only may wear the narrower pleated skirt.
Blouse*
Polycotton fine blue and white stripe with a revere collar, long or short sleeved.
Shoes
Navy blue or black, low heeled. Platform soles, slingbacks and high heels are not suitable.
Socks
Navy blue, ankle or knee length.
Tights
Opaque navy blue
Jumper*
Navy V-neck with the School crest
Sleeveless
Navy V-neck with the School crest
Information for pupils Uniform continued Jumper* Coat
Navy blue outdoor coat or anorak. A waterproof coat is available from www.schoolblazer.com.
Protective Clothing
White laboratory coat for practical work in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Please ensure that these are not of the nylon variety and have popper fastening for safety.
Cotton apron in broad navy and narrow white vertical stripes (Butcher’s apron) for use in Food and Nutrition. 4th, 5th and 6th Form F&N exam group pupils will require chef whites. These will be available from the Food and Nutrition department.
Uniform for BOYS in the 1st to 5th Forms inclusive: Blazer*
Navy blue with pocket badge
Trousers*
Charcoal Grey only. No turn ups.
Tie*
In School colours
Shirt
White, long or short sleeved.
Shoes
Black of standard pattern and capable of taking polish.
Socks
Plain dark grey, navy or black
Jumper*
Navy V-neck with the School crest
Sleeveless Jumper*
Navy V-neck with the School crest
Coat
Navy blue outdoor coat or anorak. A waterproof coat is available from www.schoolblazer.com.
Protective Clothing
White laboratory coat for practical work in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Please ensure that these are not of the nylon variety and have popper fastening for safety.
Cotton apron in broad navy and narrow white vertical stripes (Butcher’s apron) for use in Food and Nutrition. 4th, 5th and 6th Form F&N exam group pupils will require chef whites. These will be available from the Food and Nutrition department.
Some General Uniform Rules • Boys’ shirts must be tucked in, their collars buttoned and their ties done up. Underwear should not be on display • Girls’ skirts must be of an acceptable length. Midriffs should not be shown and underwear must not be on display • Outdoor clothing should not be worn in lessons • Hair should be of an acceptable length and of your own, natural colour. As a guideline, boys’ hair should be off their collar • Boys should be clean shaven • No facial or body piercings are permitted. Girls only may wear one discreet stud in each ear. Tattoos are not permitted • Girls may wear discreet make-up. Nail varnish should be of a natural shade only. Bold colours are not appropriate or acceptable • Decisions about the acceptability of uniform will be taken by the Head of Section with the Senior Deputy Head. The final arbiter of what is acceptable is the Headmaster
Information for pupils 6th Form Dress Code When you enter the 6th Form as young adults, you should understand the importance of acting as positive role models. You are expected to set an example to the rest of the School, whilst enjoying the privilege of expressing yourselves more independently. Ultimately, you enter the 6th Form to work and contribute to the wider school community; your dress should reflect this. The underlying principle is that you wear smart, professional, business attire which reflects the school uniform in colour and style. It will also allow you to choose clothing from a wide range of retail outlets rather than confining you to the School’ s uniform supplier. Dress Code for Female 6th Form Pupils Pupils will wear either a full-length trouser or skirt suit. The trousers/skirt and jacket should be made of the same material. The suit can be black, grey or navy blue. Patterns are permissible only if they are subtle and reflect the principle of smart professional dress (e.g. modest pin stripes). Skirts should be of a reasonable length. Short skirts are not permitted. Shirts/blouses should be formally cut. Polo necks are not permitted. The material should be opaque, plain or modestly patterned in pale colours (e.g. light blue or white). Low cut shirts/blouses should not be worn. Girls may choose to wear a dress suit instead of a skirt or trouser suit. The dress should have capped or short sleeves and a fairly high neckline. The suit should be of one colour only (black, grey, or navy blue), and the dress and jacket should be made of the same material. The dress should be knee, or just above the knee, length. Stretchy material or material containing lycra is not suitable. Long sleeve jumpers, cardigans and waistcoats (with a plain dark coloured back) may be worn with the suit. They must be black, grey or navy and have no pattern. Wearing a jumper, cardigan or waistcoat is no substitute for wearing a jacket.
Black formal shoes should be worn. High heels are unsuitable for the requirements of the School day and should not be worn. Shoes should be polished. No boots are to be worn, nor open toed shoes, sling backs or canvas shoes. Black, navy or neutral coloured tights should be worn. Girls must wear the School badge on their jacket lapel so that they can be identified as members of the School community. Jewellery and make up, including nail varnish, must be subtle and consistent with professional dress. Facial and body piercings and tattoos are not allowed. Midriffs are not to be shown and underwear should not be on display. A dark coloured formal coat may be worn, but not indoors. It should not have ostentatious branding on it. Hoodies are not acceptable. Dress Code for Male 6th Form Pupils Pupils will wear a matching suit. The suit can be black, dark grey or navy blue. Patterns are permissible only if they are subtle and reflect the principle of smart professional dress (e.g. modest pin stripe). School ties or 6th Form ties are to be worn at all times. Plain shirts in pale colours with a formal collar and sleeves are to be worn. They must be formal, tailored for professional dress and tucked in at all times. The top button should be fastened and hidden by the tie knot. Waistcoats (with a plain, dark coloured back), jumpers and sleeveless sweaters may accompany the suit. Wearing a waistcoat or sweater is no substitute for wearing a jacket. They must be black, grey or navy blue and have no pattern. Black, formal shoes, capable of taking polish, should be worn. Boots should not be worn.
Information for pupils 6th Form Dress Code continued Male pupils should be clean shaven and should not wear any visible jewellery. Belts should be plain, regular width and with a modest buckle. They should serve the purpose of holding up your trousers rather than acting as a fashion statement. Facial and body piercings and tattoos are not permitted. A dark coloured formal coat may be worn, but not indoors. It should not have ostentatious branding on it. Hoodies are not acceptable. Some General 6th Form Dress Code Rules Casual clothing should not be worn. Remember the principle of smart, business attire. Hair should be of an acceptable length and of your own, natural colour. As a guideline, the hair of male pupils should be off the shirt collar. Some areas of the school will require that you wear protective clothing – laboratory coats, aprons or workshop coats may be required if you study certain subjects. Decisions about the suitability of your attire will be made by the Head of 6th Form with the Senior Deputy Head. The final arbiter of what is acceptable is the Headmaster.
Information for pupils Around School Safety around the school gates/entrances In the interests of safety, parents are not allowed to park their cars or drop off pupils in the School car park at the beginning and end of the school day. Parents are advised to park on Harecroft Road, Barton Road or in the car park on Chapel Road. On North Brink pupils should be dropped off only in designated parking bays. Pupils should take care when crossing Harecroft Road and use the pedestrian crossing. Likewise when crossing Chapel Road the pedestrian crossing should be used.
Pupils’ Personal Property You should always be careful when bringing expensive items into school. It is best to ensure that any such item is insured for use in school as well as for travel to and from school. The School cannot accept responsibility for loss of, or damage to, personal property. The mobile phone policy is clear. Pupils may bring a phone to school, but it must be switched off during lessons, unless otherwise directed, and should only be used in a discreet manner outside of lessons. Under no circumstances are phones to be used to film, record or take photographs. Cameras and other recording devices should only be used with a teacher’s permission. If in doubt, ask your teacher. Pupils are not allowed to sell goods of any kind, including sweets or tuck, to other pupils on school premises, on their journey to/from school, or on school trips. If you do, you may face disciplinary sanctions.
School Property Once you have finished with any school books/equipment/materials, please ensure they are returned to school. Please treat all property with respect.
Information for pupils Around School continued Dangerous Items You must not bring to school any article that is dangerous or that could be regarded as a weapon. If you do, it will be confiscated and you will face serious disciplinary sanctions for bringing offending items to school.
Bicycles Do not ride your bicycle into or out of the school gates or anywhere on school premises. Push it, and padlock it in the rack. For your safety, you must wear a helmet whilst cycling. You must use lights when riding your bicycle in the dark.
Lockers Every pupil who wants one has a locker. Most lockers are under the canopy in the courtyard. In the case of outside lockers, pupils bring in their own padlock. In the case of internal lockers, Form Tutors issue locker keys. Keys should be kept safe. If you find a locker key take it to reception. Replacement keys for internal lockers are supplied in the event of loss at a cost. Don’t leave belongings in your locker overnight. Food should never be left overnight in your locker. All lockers must be left empty and clean at the end of each term. You should never store your belongings in another pupil’s locker. You should keep your locker locked at all times. The School reserves the right to open a pupil’s locker if it is deemed necessary. Wilful or malicious damage to lockers may result in a deduction being made from the Acceptance Deposit.
Bags You must keep your bag with you, or in your locker. PE kit can be stored on the shelving area near the PE changing area or in the History area. Cricket bags can also be put in the shelving area in the foyer of the Sports Hall. All belongings must be taken home at the end of each day.
Lost Property Items of Lost Property are passed to Pupil Services. Please remember that it is much easier to get Lost Property back to its rightful owner if everything is clearly named.
Form Rooms Pupils in the 1st and 2nd Forms do not have access to their form room during break and lunch time except in wet weather. Pupils in the 3rd Form and above may stay in their form room at break and lunchtime if it is available. It is the responsibility of members of the form to ensure that their form room is kept clean and tidy at the end of break and lunch time. Pupils from different forms are allowed in other form rooms but only at the invitation of the members of that form.
Information for pupils Responsibilities Informal ball games during break/lunchtime Games which involve potentially dangerous physical contact are not to be played. Playing with any large ball on the School fields is not allowed. Games of soccer, using tennis size balls, are permitted on the grass adjacent to the netball courts during the Michaelmas and Lent terms. During the Trinity term, tennis will take precedence. All pupils are asked to consider the safety aspects of the games that they intend to play before they commence playing. In the event of a dispute as to the nature of the game, or the appropriateness of equipment being used to play the game, the decision of the duty member of staff or any other member of staff will be final. Any pupil who contravenes the above, or the spirit of the above, should expect to receive a school sanction as they are not acting in a way which is conducive to the safety of themselves and others.
Rewards and Sanctions The School is keen to acknowledge effort, engagement and good behaviour and to praise and celebrate pupils in their curricular and extra-curricular achievements. The opportunities include: • Pupil Memo Reward cards, issued by staff to celebrate a wide range of pupil achievements. These are passed to Form Tutors who can use them to re-inforce a sense of achievement • Reports on sports, trips and other activities given by pupils in whole school assemblies • An annual prize giving ceremony, which includes prizes for endeavour • Commendation Cards for good work or significant improvement or achievement in any area of school. These are administered by teachers and distributed by form tutors • Following Grade Cards, the Headmaster and other Senior Staff see pupils who have achieved high scores or shown significant improvement in their academic work • Notable academic and extra-curricular achievements are celebrated by announcements in assembly and Colours, certificates and trophies are awarded in the presence of the whole school. Achievements are also recorded in Press releases, the School Magazine, School Highlights, Headmaster’s Newsletters, on the website and on display areas in school • 6th Formers will be invited to have coffee and cake with the Head of 6th Form and members of staff to celebrate their success in Achievement Profiles • Letters home from Heads of Section to recognise notable academic attainment, engagement or improvement • Governors’ Commendations are also awarded to pupils who have made significant contributions to School life or for outstanding achievements
Information for pupils Sanctions You are given clear guidance on personal conduct. However, from time to time incidents may occur, as in any community. In cases of misbehaviour, both in school and when off site, or for inadequate work, the school will use a range of sanctions. Crucial to our system of sanctions is the principle of proportionality. The sanctions include: • Departmental detentions (e.g. for poor effort in class or a failure to produce homework) • Suspension of Privileges (e.g. for inappropriate behaviour) • Daily Report (e.g. for persistent work/behaviour/organisational issues) • Heads of Section detentions (e.g. for repeated instances of the above) • Saturday detentions (e.g. for missing lessons, or persistent issues of punctuality, or work issues) • Internal Suspension (e.g. for persistent bad behaviour or truancy) • Suspension (for serious breaches of the School’s Behaviour Policy) • Permanent exclusion (e.g. for repeated serious breaches of the School’s Behaviour Policy)
Confiscation Staff have the right to confiscate inappropriate items. This may include when: • an item is a danger to others, e.g. laser pen • an item disrupts teaching and learning, e.g. an MP3 player/mobile phone • an item is against school uniform rules/dress code, e.g. jewellery and non uniform items • an item poses a health and safety threat, e.g. neck chain worn during P.E. • an item which is illegal for a child to have, e.g. pornographic material When an item is confiscated a record of the incident will be made by the member of staff involved and a copy kept on the pupil’s file. Items of obvious value will be labeled and stored in the School’s safe until they are returned to the pupil. In most cases confiscation is a sufficient sanction, and return of the item at the end of the lesson or School day is adequate time to reinforce the School rule. If the School chooses not to return an item at the end of the School day then parents will be informed. In some cases a responsible family adult may be asked to retrieve the item. Other items which the pupil should not have had in their possession, particularly of an unlawful or hazardous nature, may be given by the School to an external agency for disposal or further action as necessary. This will be followed by a letter to the parents confirming that this has taken place and the reasons for such action.
Information for pupils Concerns If you, as a pupil, have any concerns, you should feel that you could talk to any member of staff. It may be that that member of staff will need to pass the information on. They will not be able to promise confidentiality. Teachers at Wisbech Grammar School will be discreet, but the law gives them clear responsibilities as adults who care for young people. However, they will tell you what they need to do, why, and who will have access to the information. Mr McConnell-Wood, Senior Deputy Head, Mr Stump, Head of Art and Mrs Ogston, Deputy Head of Middle School, are the School’s Designated Safeguarding Officers. All personal information about you is regarded as private, and teachers will not pass it on indiscriminately (for example they will not chat about you in the staffroom). But they cannot offer you or your parents complete confidentiality. By law, teachers must pass on information about behaviour or events that are likely to cause harm to young people. Depending on your age and maturity, teachers do not have to pass on information about you to your parents, although they will usually encourage you to seek support from them.
Who to talk to? The pastoral structure at Wisbech Grammar School encourages you or your parents to talk to your Form Tutor in the first instance. However, there may be occasions that you would prefer to talk to your Head of Section or their Deputy. It may also be that you feel more comfortable talking to another member of staff. Senior Prefects, Form Prefects (in the 1st Form) and Peer Mentors are also available to help pupils. As 6th Formers, they may be able to give advice or support. Peer Mentors may be paired with individual pupils to offer support. All of these options are fine. Teachers balance many parts of their jobs and they will always aim to be discreet and caring. Wisbech Grammar School has a list of organisations, including private counsellors, and can recommend ways to access support or help outside of school. If you need the use of a quiet place for a confidential phone call, just approach a senior member of staff.
Information for pupils Helplines and Websites Childline
08001111 www.childline.org.uk
Kidscape
08451 205204 www.kidscape.org.uk
NSPCC Helpline
0808 800 5000 (to report a concern)
0800 1111 (to contact Childline)
Samaritans
116 123 www.samaritans.org
Relate
0300 100 1234 www.relate.org.uk
Drinkline Youth Helpline
0800 9178282
Alcoholics Anonymous
0800 9177650 www.alcoholics-anonymous.org
BEAT (eating disorders)
0845 634 1414
Youthline
0845 6347650 www.b-eat.co.uk
Mind Information Line
0300 123 3393 www.mind.org.uk
Mental Health Foundation National Drugs Helpline
www.nspcc.org.uk
Not available www.mentalhealth.org.uk
0300 1236600 www.ndh.org.uk
Other sources of help: Cyber-bullying: if you are being bullied via computer or by phone, tell a teacher. You should look at the Anti-bullying Network website: www.antibullying.net/cyberbullying1.htm. It provides a list of phone and internet providers and their contact details. You can also report abuse on social networking sites.
Other sources of help: “Get Connected” is a free UK wide helpline that finds young people the best help whatever their problem. Those manning the helpline listen to your concerns, talk you through the options you have, and then make suggestions of services where you can get the best help. “Get Connected” has access to information on thousands of places that can help, both locally and nationally.“Get Connected” can then connect you free of charge to the service you have chosen, and can text important information to your mobile phone. Freephone 0808808 4994 or Text 80849 “B-eat” is a website with lots of information on dealing with eating disorders. “Mind” is the leading mental health charity in the UK. “Relate” deals with all types of relationship problems.