Highfields School Newsletter Highfields School
Issue 01: 6 September 2019
Newsletter
2019-20
Issue 01: 6 September 2019
Our newsletter aims to keep parents and carers up to date with school news, activities and key information throughout the year. If you have any feedback on or suggestions for the newsletter, please send your comments via email to newsletter@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk Don’t forget to visit our website (www.highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk) for more news and information. Thank you for taking the time to read our news.
A Marsh Headteacher
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 01: 6 September 2019
Newsletter
Contents: Message from the headteacher .................................................................. 3 Student Bulletin ......................................................................................... 4 Parent/Carer Notices.................................................................................. 5
Reminder: Year 7 activity day ............................................................................. 5 Get Reading ....................................................................................................... 6 Reminder for years 9, 10 and 11 ......................................................................... 6 Year 10 option changes ...................................................................................... 7 Year 10 work experience 2020 ............................................................................ 7 Reminder from the design, technology and engineering department...................... 7 Consequence system notifications ....................................................................... 7 Your contact details ............................................................................................ 8 2019-20 new academic year ............................................................................... 8 Parent consultation evenings 2019-20 ................................................................. 8 Examination board contingency day 2020 ............................................................ 9 Governing Board vacancies ................................................................................. 9
School news ............................................................................................ 10
Year 11 geography students star in film ............................................................. 10
School clubs and extra-curricular activities ................................................ 11
School club notice board ................................................................................... 13
Careers, College & Apprenticeship News ................................................... 14
Careers/Employability help ................................................................................ 14 Resources ........................................................................................................ 14 Careers inspiration and advice from BBC Bitesize................................................ 14 Online careers programme for 11-18 year olds ................................................... 14
Sports Leaders News ............................................................................... 16 School Meals – week 1 menu ................................................................... 17 Highfields School Uniform Code ................................................................ 19 Highfields School Governing Board 2019-20 .............................................. 21 Highfields School Contact details .............................................................. 22 Key Staff for 2019-20 .............................................................................. 24 Key Dates ............................................................................................... 25 Disclaimer: Highfields School is not responsible for the quality of products or organisations publicised through articles or advertisements in the school newsletter.
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 01: 6 September 2019
Newsletter Message from the headteacher Off we go again. On Wednesday morning I handed over my kids to their auntie and headed off to work to look after your wonderful children. I’ve always suspected that year two for me would be more difficult than my first year. This is because if year one is about establishing trust with the school community, then year two is about making the changes which we have decided are required to make sure that children be the best they can. Change is not always comfortable for everyone and so a steady hand and very clear communication will be required. Our A level results were very good and put us in the top 25% of the country. A card this morning from a parent reflected their delight that their child had gained a place in the university of their choice (to study physics with space science, by the way). This is typical of the many successes achieved by Y13 students. GCSE results also included some excellent individual stories which we have celebrated online. It appears that the students as a group made better progress than the class of 2018. But overall, in a number of cases, I feel that children could have done better and this will have affected, however incrementally, their onward pathways. This keeps me awake at night, as our vocation as teachers is to give children the best possible chance of an exciting and rewarding future. You will be aware that the jobs market becomes ever more competitive, with job seekers competing, not only with each other, but with machines whose artificial intelligence puts in them in a good place to carry out many basic roles. Children need GCSE results which offer them the best possible chance of them gaining an exciting apprenticeship, a place at college or in a good sixth form such as ours at Highfields. As I explain to my son on a daily basis this is not something to panic about, but something to prepare for. Our children and their teachers need to work calmly, effectively, methodically each lesson to ensure that our students gain the skills and knowledge they need. My dream, above all, is that I lead a school where children learn for learning’s sake and, almost incidentally, do well in their exams as a result. I want our teachers and students to spend each day inspiring each other to be curious and inquisitive about the world around them. This ethos of being unashamed about wanting to learn and succeed is not easily won and depends on creating an atmosphere of collective safety, inclusion, tolerance and trust. Rest assured, our plans focus on this end. Anyway, back on more operational matters the school has started up again well. We received our year 7s on Wednesday and they seemed to make it through the day admirably. All other students are now back in and we are quickly approaching cruising speed. We have invested in a number of high quality outdoor table tennis tables to provide an additional activity at break and lunch for students. I am so desperately competitive that I picked a holiday location with a table and spent hours on end practising in anticipation of taking students on when they returned in September. I got a bit ahead of myself and challenged some 600 students in assemblies telling them I was unbeatable. Long story short, it turns out I am really quite beatable. Next newsletter will find me back in lessons. Have a pleasant weekend.
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 01: 6 September 2019
Newsletter Student Bulletin
Week commencing Monday 9 September: Monday 8.40am – Year 7 assembly 8.40am – Highfields Student Leaders to meet Mr Marsh in Coffee Bar
Tuesday 8.40am – Year 8 assembly 8.40am – Sixth form assembly
Wednesday 8.40am – Year 11 assembly
Thursday 8.40am – Year 10 assembly
Friday 8.40an – Year 9 assembly
Full information on extra-curricular clubs for lunch, after school activities and fixtures will follow once confirmed for this academic year
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 01: 6 September 2019
Newsletter Parent/Carer Notices Reminder: Year 7 activity day As you will be aware year 7 students will be taking part in a year 7 activity day on either 24 or 25 September. If you have not done so, please complete the consent form and return it to school as soon as possible - payment is required by Friday 13 September 2019. Activity day details: Tuesday 24 September: 7HC:
To be dropped off at school as normal and to be collected by parents/carers from Lea Green at 3.30pm.
7MB and 7KSW:
To be dropped off at Lea Green for 8.50am. Students will go home as per their usual arrangements at the end of the school day.
Wednesday 25 September: 7JST and 7MWE:
To be dropped off at school as normal and to be collected by parents/carers from Lea Green at 3.30pm.
7IR and 7CH
To be dropped off at Lea Green for 8.50am. Students will go home as per their usual arrangements at the end of the school day.
A BBQ lunch and drink will be provided that is included within the price. Students will spend the rest of the day on activities including low rope climbing, buggy bikes and team/problem solving activities. Students should wear leisure clothing, including suitable trousers like track suit bottoms (not jeans), strong training shoes or wellies and a waterproof coat. They should bring a set of spare clothes with them. We advise you to pack plenty of drinks and snacks. If you have any questions, please contact Mrs Green (Year Manager) on the main school number. We hope your child will be able to join us on this exciting venture. Mrs A Hollinrake and Mrs L Redhead Head of Year 7
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 01: 6 September 2019
Newsletter Get Reading We value independent reading very highly. People who read more learn more and often benefit from higher levels of happiness and well-being. To support our reading we are very fortunate to have two libraries, overseen by our excellent librarians Mrs Robinson and Mrs Walker. This year there are a number of new initiatives aimed at getting our students reading more: 1. Every student is expected to have a book in their bag. This is part of their core equipment. 2. One form period a week will be devoted to independent reading. 3. In years 7 and 8 students have been enrolled on a programme called Accelerated Reader. This has had an impressive record of improving reading ages by motivating young people to read more. It does this by matching books to interests and reading ages and through the completion of on-line quizzes each time a book is completed. 4. In order to gain maximum impact from Accelerated Reader students in years 7 and 8 are being challenged to complete 100 minutes of independent reading a week. As well as reading in form period students in these years will have 50 minutes of reading at home set as homework each week (this is on Show My Homework). 5. We have also introduced Drop Everything and Read (DEAR) for years 7 and 8. This is a 25 minute session each week where everybody reads. This session takes place on a rotating basis in different periods each week. The first DEAR session will take place during period 3 on Thursday 19 September. Your support and encouragement for reading is greatly appreciated.
Reminder for years 9, 10 and 11: headphones & earphones Further to the headteacher’s letter sent in the summer term, please ensure that your child does not bring headphones, earphones or similar to school. They can easily get lost, they create unnecessary conflict and distraction both around the school in unstructured times and in lessons. We are aware of any student whose SEN require reasonable adjustment to this approach. Thank you for your support in this matter. M Hodkin Assistant Headteacher
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 01: 6 September 2019
Newsletter Year 10 option changes The deadline for option changes is Monday 23 September. Changes will only be considered if submitted in writing by a parent/carer to Miss Hughes.
Year 10 work experience 2020 A reminder to parent/carers of year 10 students to return the completed work experience form to Mrs Giles when both year 10 work experience placements have been confirmed. If your son/daughter would like ideas of where to apply there is a list of local businesses who have very kindly offered work experience opportunities for 2020 on the schools' VLE. If your son/daughter wishes to apply for a vacancy listed on VLE, please see Mrs Giles.
Reminder from the design, technology and engineering department Key Stage 3 Projects: We are proud of the quality of the products that our younger students make and always encourage them to take them home. In the past we have asked for a cash contribution towards payment of materials once product design and electronic projects are completed. As the school now has a cashless system, we would like to move towards this method of payment, so from September we would gratefully request that a contribution of £5.00 per year be made via the ParentPay system which would enable us to continue to deliver quality projects. GCSE D&T and Food Preparatin & Nutrition: The GCSE Design and Technology and GCSE Food, Preparation and Nutrition Revision Guides are available via ParentPay at a cost of £3.99 for students taking the subject in year 10.
Consequence system notifications Thank you to parents/carers for feedback regarding the automated notifications system for consequences and detentions, unfortunately the system cannot be personalised any more than it is currently due to the way the system operates. If you require any additional information and clarification on an incident, please contact your child’s year manager. Thank you to all parents/carers and students for participating in our surveys during the previous academic year, following the feedback gathered a few alterations were made to the consequences system in school. Full details are listed in the school’s behaviour policy. Thank you for your continued support. M Hodkin Assistant Headteacher
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 01: 6 September 2019
Newsletter Your contact details Could parents/carers please ensure you notify the relevant year manager if any contact details have changed for your child or yourself (ie change of address, telephone and email details) to ensure our records are up to date in case of emergency.
2019-20 new academic year 2019-20 academic year: Term 1 - 3 September 2019 to 25 October 2019 Term 2 - 4 November 2019 to 20 December 2019 Term 3 - 6 January 2020 to 14 February 2020 Term 4 - 24 February 2020 to 3 April 2020 Term 5 - 20 April 2020 to 22 May 2020 Term 6 - 1 June 2020 to 21 July 2020 2019-20 CPD days (school closed to students): Tuesday 3 September 2019 Friday 6 December 2019 Friday 3 July 2020 Monday 20 July 2020 Tuesday 21 July 2020
2019-20 bank holidays (school closed): 25 and 26 December 2019 1 January 2020 10 April 2020 (Good Friday) 13 April 2020 (Easter Monday) 8 May 2020 (Friday) 25 May 2020 (spring bank holiday)
Parent consultation evenings 2019-20 Parents’ consultation evenings will take place during the year for each year group. All meetings will be held in the David Marshall Sports Hall at the Lumsdale (upper school) site from 4.00pm until 7.00pm, the last appointment time being 6.45pm. Parent consultation evenings: Year Year Year Year Year Year Year
7: 8: 9: 10: 11: 12: 13:
Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday
Be the best you can
17 March 2020 11 February 2020 14 January 2020 (including option choices for Y10) 3 March 2020 28 January 2020 3 December 2019 19 November 2019
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Highfields School
Issue 01: 6 September 2019
Newsletter Examination board contingency day 2020 The 2020 summer exams may seem like a long way away, but we wanted to make you aware of some important information from the examination boards that will affect all students taking examinations next summer. 2020 is the second year that a contingency exam day has been implemented by the exam boards for all examinations ‘should sustained national or local disruption arise during the June 2020 examination series’. The date set aside as the contingency day is Wednesday 24 June 2020. With this in mind, please can all parents/carers make a note of the reserve date - the school has no power to support any absence related to holidays taken if an exam is rearranged on this date. If you are planning to arrange a summer holiday next year, please ensure you do this after 24 June 2020.
Governing Board vacancies Highfields School is looking to recruit a number of vacancies on to the School’s Governing Board. If you are interested in becoming a governor or know a parent/carer with a child in school who would be great in this role please encourage them to put their name forward. Full details will be sent out on Monday on how to stand for election. In all types of schools, Governing Boards should have a strong focus on three core strategic functions: Ensuring clarity of vision, ethos and strategic direction; Holding the headteacher to account for the educational performance of the school and its students, and the performance management of staff; and Overseeing the financial performance of the school and making sure its money is well spent. There is an expectation that on election you will be willing to: undertake appropriate induction training prepare for and attend all meetings regularly be willing to undertake further training to develop your skills. The most important qualification is a desire to be part of the team which continually works to ensure Highfields School is a great place to study and work.
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 01: 6 September 2019
Newsletter School news Year 11 geography students star in film Mrs Barker
During their GCSE geography fieldwork visit to Edale in April, our year 11 students were filmed carrying out their rivers fieldwork for a promotional film for the National Park Education Service. We have enjoyed a long and mutually fruitful working relationship with our Peak District partners and were more than happy to help them in this project. Long may our partnership continue! To view the film please click on the link below: https://www.peakdistrict.gov.uk/learning-about/education/edvisits-secondary/hydrology-andfluvial-geomorphology
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 01: 6 September 2019
Newsletter School clubs and extra-curricular activities A full list of clubs will be available shortly – the following clubs have been arranged to date:
Starkholmes Day Monday
Room PArts Mobile
Y7 Sports leaders
Time 3.304.45pm Lunch
Highflyers Dance Club
1-1.45pm
PArts Mobile
Netball
1-1.45pm
Courts
Table Tennis
1-1.45pm
Gym
Miss Hollinrake / Mrs Redhead Mrs Wildgoose/ Miss Tabbenor Mr Molyneux
Wednesday
Computing Club Y7-8 Y7/8 Football (girls and boys)
1-1.30pm Lunch
Room 7 Gym/field
Mrs Hadfield Mr Shirtcliffe
Thursday
Lower School Drama Club Mini Musical
1-1.45pm 3.304.45pm 1.00pm 1-1.30pm 3.454.45pm
PArts Mobile PArts Mobile Gym Room 6 Sports hall LUMSDALE
Miss Hendry Miss Bonsall/ Miss Hendry Mr Molyneux Miss Hall Mrs Wildgoose/ Miss Tabbenor
1.15pm 3.30-5pm 1-1.45pm
Library PArts Mobile Room 2
Mrs Robinson Mrs Hollinrake Mrs Barker
Tuesday
Club Mini Musical
Y8 Sports leaders Maths Club Netball This club will be at Lumsdale students should travel on the Slacks bus to upper site and arrange collection from Lumsdale
Friday
*Please note:
Y7 Book Club* Year 11 Intervention (AH) Geography Support/Revision
Gym
Staff member Miss Bonsall/ Miss Hendry Mrs Turner
The Y7/8 Book Club alternates each week. Y7 Book Club will begin Friday 13 September, followed by the Y8 Book Club the week after.
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 01: 6 September 2019
Newsletter Lumsdale Day Monday
Club Rugby Y10-13 (boys) Football
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Time 3.454.45pm 1-1.45pm
Room Field
Staff member Mrs Bowen
Sports hall/ field
Mr Roberts/ Mr Fox
Upper School Musical Theatre Club Computing Club Y9-13 Y11 Active Lunch
1-1.45pm
P1
Miss Bonsall
1-1.30pm 1-1.45pm
IT1 tbc
Mrs Hadfield Mr Redhead
Upper School Dance Club
Wheeldon Hall IT1
Sixth formers
GCSE Drama Intervention - IT1
3.304.45pm 3.30-5pm
Book Club Sports leaders Y9-13
1-1.45pm 1-1.45pm
Library Sports hall
Sports leaders Primary Evening
3.45pm
Sports hall
Netball
1-1.45pm
Sports hall
Geography Support/ Revision
1-1.45pm
H2
Miss Bonsall/ Mrs Rifkin Mrs Walker Mrs Allen/ Mrs Turner/ Mr Molyneux Mrs Allen/ Mrs Turner Mrs Wildgoose/ Miss Tabbenor Mrs Barker
Upper School Musical Theatre Club Gardening Club Fitness Netball – all years
1-1.45pm
P1
Miss Bonsall
1-1.45pm 1-1.45pm 3.45pm
Flower beds Mrs Brailsford Sports hall Mr Shirtcliffe Sports hall Mrs Wildgoose/ Miss Tabbenor
1-1.45pm 1-1.45pm
E4 Sports hall
Mr Key Mr Shirtcliffe
1-1.45pm
Sports hall
Mrs Allen/ Mrs Turner
Board Games Club Badminton/Table Tennis Smash Up All Inclusive SEN Boccia
Be the best you can
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Issue 01: Highfields School School club notice board Newsletter
Be the best you can
6 September 2019
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Highfields School
Issue 01: 6 September 2019
Newsletter Careers, College & Apprenticeship News Careers Information Careers/Employability help If you feel that you can offer your services to school with regard to Careers/Employability, please contact the school via email careers@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Resources Careers information, apprenticeship vacancies and higher education information can be found on the webpage under Students-Work Experience and Careers. http://www.highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk/careers.html
Careers inspiration and advice from BBC Bitesize Explore BBC Bitesize’s brand new collection of free, online careers resources offering a wealth of inspiration and advice for students. This new resources offer a rich collection of case studies across a wide range of sectors, linking curriculum subjects and the world of work: Explore BBC Bitesize Careers resources
Online careers programme for 11-18 year olds START is an online careers programme designed to connect 11-18 year olds with their future career potential. The programme is broken down into sections on ‘world of work’ with a job search according to subject, skill or interest; ‘what to study’ about pathways and qualifications; ‘where to learn’ which views all colleges, universities, sixth forms, training providers and UTC; and ‘employability’ which has sections on work experience, work preparation including CV writing, covering letters and interview preparation. There is also the facility for students to upload their personal statement and CV, so they can start to build their own careers profile. Students can access the programme at home via the website (startprofile.com) with the student code they have been issued with – see Mrs Turner for further details.
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 01: 6 September 2019
Newsletter
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 01: 6 September 2019
Newsletter Sports Leaders News Mrs Allen (School Sports Co-ordinator) Our Sports Leaders and Sports Apprentices will be extremely busy supporting sporting activities not only in school, but also within our partner primary schools and across the wider community. Further information on Sports Leadership can be found on the school website: http://www.highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk/SportsLeadership.html
Sports leaders notice board: Sports leaders registration If you are interested in joining the sports leaders programme please register on the dates below: Year 7 Year 8 Years 9-11 Years 12-13
– – – –
Monday at 1pm in Starkholmes gym Thursday at 1pm in Starkholmes gym Wednesday at 1pm in the sports hall Friday period 5/6
Girls Going for Gold Girls in years 9-11 attending the EIS in Sheffield on Friday 13 September need to be ready to leave Lumsdale at 8.15am.
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 01: 6 September 2019
Newsletter School Meals – week 1 menu Monday 9 September–Friday 13 September 2019 Monday
Mains
Week 1
Organic meatballs in a Mediterranean sauce, vegetarian balls in Mediterranean sauce
Sides
Pasta, selection of breads
Veg & salads
Salad selection, carrots, sweetcorn
Desserts
Pancakes & coulis, strawberry muffin, apple flapjack, fresh fruit, fruit yoghurts
Tuesday
Mains
Sticky BBQ chicken, cheese bean enchilada
Sides
Sunshine rice, selection of breads
Veg & Salads
Salad selection, peas
Desserts
Summer fruit crumble, chocolate crunch, swiss buns, fresh fruit, fruit yoghurts
Wednesday
Mains
Roast beef Yorkshire pudding, cauliflower broccoli & sweet potato bake
Sides
Creamed potatoes, selection of breads
Veg & Salads
Salad selection, broccoli, carrots
Desserts
Sticky choc pudding, ginger biscuits, banana bread, fresh fruit, fruit yoghurt
Thursday
Mains
Chicken veg curry & naan bread (Tikka), veg curry (Tikka)
Sides
Savoury rice, selection of breads
Veg & Salads
Salad selection, sweetcorn
Desserts
Fruit yoghurt crunch, Choc orange cookie, fruit scone, fresh fruit, fruit yoghurts
In addition to the options above, the following are available on a daily basis: Hot snacks
Jacket potatoes, hot paninis, pasta bar
Deli Range
Protein/salad box, sandwiches baguettes, deli rolls, wraps
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 01: 6 September 2019
Newsletter
Menu options available at morning break: Week 1 menu Monday
Tuesday
Bacon Bap
Crumpets
Cold Pasta Pots
Bacon Egg Bap
Teacakes
Sandwiches
Filled Naan Bread
Yoghurt
Fresh Fruit
Toast
Granola Pots
Croissants
Sausage Bap
Crumpets
Yoghurt
Bacon egg Bap
Teacakes
Granola Pots
Toasted sandwiches
Cold Pasta Pots
Fresh Fruit
Toast
Sandwiches
Wednesday Bacon Bap
Thursday
Friday
Crumpets
Sandwiches
Bacon egg Bap
Teacakes
Yoghurt
Pizza
Toasted sandwiches
Granola Pots
Toast
Cold Pasta Pots
Fresh Fruit
Bacon Bap
Crumpets
Granola Pots
Bacon Egg Bap
Teacakes
Yoghurt
Filled Naan
Cold Pasta Pots
Fresh Fruit
Toasted sandwiches
Sandwiches
Bacon Bap
Fresh Fruit
Yoghurt
Bacon Egg Bap
Crumpets
Granola Pots
Hot BBQ Wrap
Teacakes
Cold Pasta Pots
Homemade garlic slice
Wholemeal Bread Rolls
Sandwiches
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 01: 6 September 2019
Newsletter Highfields School Uniform Code A strict uniform code for years 7 to 11 is implemented at Highfields School. Our school uniform is easy to source and practical, it helps to promote a community identity, encourages pride in appearance, makes life fair for all students when the same rules apply and reflects the high standards and expectations we have at Highfields School. Staff perform a variety of uniform checks and we ask that parents/carers support our uniform code. The uniform code below is designed to be clear. Parents/carers are encouraged to check with the school on 01629 581888 where they are unsure.
Highfields School uniform Footwear:
Shirts:
Jumpers:
Trousers / skirts:
Shoes should be black and polishable with no logos Plain black socks with trousers Plain black tights with skirts During snow and ice, students should wear footwear appropriate to the conditions.
No shoes with heels, logos/other colours/flashes appearing on the design, trainers, boots, ankle boots, canvas/fabric/suede shoes, slipon ballet shoes, flip flops, sandals or fashion shoes
Formal white shirt with stiff collar that buttons to the neck Shirts must be worn with a school clip on tie Shirts must be tucked in Or White polo shirt with school logo purchased from one of our suppliers
No fitted blouses or plain white polo shirts without school logo
Official black school jumpers with the school logo (stocked only by Kick Off Sport or Trutex) should be worn
No hoodies, jumpers or cardigans from another source with a sewn on logo The Highfields royal blue PE hoodie should only be worn during PE lessons and not around school
Plain black formal shoe-length tailored trousers (for boys and girls) or Plain black formal knee length skirt
No tight skirts, short skirts, fashion skirts, fashion trousers, skinny jeans, skinny trousers, low slung trousers, jeggings, tracksuit bottoms, chinos, combats, cords, leggings or denim of any colour, no detail on skirts or trousers such as zips, metal studs or buckles.
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 01: 6 September 2019
Newsletter Jewellery:
Outdoor wear:
A single sleeper/stud in each ear and a watch
No rings, pendants, necklaces, non-school badges, festival wrist bands, ordinary wrist bands, charity wrist bands (unless sanctioned by school), facial jewellery or other body jewellery (eg nose studs, belly button piercings), tattoos (tattoos are not legally allowed until 18 years of age)
Warm weather resistant winter coat suitable for outdoor use
No leather jackets, denim jackets, hoodies (including plain black hoodies) or plain black cardigans. These items are not waterproof and will not be accepted as outdoor wear. School jumpers should be worn for warmth
Outdoor wear must be removed upon entry to the school building and stored in lockers Outdoor wear must not be worn in classrooms or during lessons
Hairstyles:
Hair should be of natural colour and not extreme in terms of style or cut Plain hair bands can be worn - no flowers or bows
Belts:
Plain black belts (without studs) can be worn to hold up trousers and not for decoration
Scarves:
Scarves should never be worn in classrooms or during lessons
Make-up:
Heavy make-up is not acceptable in school (no mascara, blusher, eye shadow, eye liner, lipstick or fake tan) No nail varnish, false nails or nail extensions are allowed Students will be issued with appropriate ‘wipes’ in order to remove heavy make-up or nail varnish
Bags:
Bags should be of a suitable size to accommodate A4 sized books, folders and other equipment
Equipment:
All students are expected to have pens, pencil, ruler, rubber, calculator and any subject specific equipment every day
Please note: Many department stores also stock the items we list as non-logo wear. Please be cautious when purchasing uniform from retailers, as many advertise and sell fashion trousers/skirts as school uniform, but not all would comply with Highfields uniform code. If you require advice before making a purchase, please contact school. Where a term is disputed (e.g. ‘skinny’ or ‘short’) a senior leader will decide whether or not clothing reflects uniform code. Full details of our uniform code can be accessed through the following link to our website: http://www.highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk/uniform.html
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 01: 6 September 2019
Newsletter Highfields School Governing Board 2019-20 Highfields School is fortunate in the kinds of people who have volunteered to become governors, each bringing a variety of skills and experience to support the school. The composition of the governing board for 2019-20 is split as follows. Each governor serves a term of office of four years. Name Mr Paul Steeples Ms Julie Birtwistle Ms Julie Lane Miss Jodie Rogers Mr Tim Smith Miss Angeline Ellson Mr David Matthews Mr Nick Newberry Mrs Sheila Evans Mr Andrew Marsh Miss Lizzy Dence
Governor Type Co-opted / Chair of Governors Co-opted / Vice Chair of Governors Co-opted Co-opted Co-opted Parent Parent Parent Local Authority Headteacher Staff
Please visit the school website for full details of the Governing Board. There is currently a vacancy for a parent governor and four co-opted governors – full details will be issued week commencing 9 September 2019.
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 01: 6 September 2019
Newsletter Highfields School Contact details Communication with school General enquiries The first point of contact for parents/carers for general enquiries is reception. Reception staff will ask you what the issue is in order for them to help with queries or refer you to a member of staff who can. Please be understanding with your expectations as, unless your call is urgent or considered a safeguarding matter, the majority of staff will not be able to respond to you immediately due to their teaching commitments and a return call may not be until the end of the school day or following day depending on the situation. Pastoral enquiries & sickness absence If you have any concerns about a student, please contact the form tutor in the first instance either by email or telephone. If you feel enquiries have not been adequately addressed by the form tutor or year manager, this can be followed-up with the relevant head of year. If parents/carers wish to contact the school regarding attendance, please contact the relevant year manager. Each year group has their own year manager to deal with any enquiries or concerns: Mrs Green
Year Manager (year 7) tgreen@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Mrs Weightman-Edge
Year Manager (year 8) hweightman-edge@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Mr Briddon
Year Manager (year 9) sbriddon@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Mr Allsobrook
Year Manager (year 10) callsobrook@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Mr Tidmarsh
Year Manager (year 11) dtidmarsh@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Mrs Bumby
Year Manager (sixth form) pbumby@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Subject specific enquiry (subject teacher) If you have subject specific enquiries, we ask that you contact the relevant subject teacher. If you feel enquiries have not been adequately addressed by the class teacher, this can be followed-up by the relevant Head of Department.
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 01: 6 September 2019
Newsletter Main Contact Details Lower Site (Years 7 & 8): Telephone:
Starkholmes Road, Matlock, Derbyshire, DE4 3DD 01629 584020
Upper Site (Years 9-13): Telephone:
Upper Lumsdale, Matlock, Derbyshire, DE4 5NA 01629 581888
Website:
www.highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
General email:
info@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Admissions:
admissions@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Chair of Governors:
chair@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Newsletter feedback:
newsletter@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Careers information:
careers@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Your contact details
Please ensure you notify us of any changes of address, telephone and email details to ensure our records are up to date in case of emergency.
Get Involved! We would love to hear from any parents/carers or members of the community who may be able to contribute to school life, for example talking to students about specialist area of work, supporting mock careers interviews, providing work placement opportunities etc. Your insights, involvement and support have been crucial to the successes of the school over time and we would like to build on our strengths and develop excellence across the school community. If you feel you may be able to contribute to the school in any way, please email us detailing the help you could offer at getinvolved@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk – we would be very happy to hear from you.
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 01: 6 September 2019
Newsletter Key Staff for 2019-20 Headteacher: Mr A Marsh
Deputy Headteacher: Mr P R Cole
Assistant Headteachers: Mr D O’Reilly Mrs C Rifkin Mr M Hodkin
Associate Assistant Headteachers:
Mr K Rodgers - Years 7 and 8 (based at Starkholmes) Miss N Gresswell - Years 9, 10 & 11 (based at Lumsdale) Mrs C Morgan – Curriculum and timetabling
Heads of Year: Year 7 Year 8 Year 9 Year 10 Year 11 Sixth form
Year Managers: Year 7 Year 8 Year 9 Year 10 Year 11 Sixth form
Mrs A Hollinrake / Mrs L Redhead Miss L Hamrouge Mrs A Ruston Miss J Hughes Mr J Redhead Mr M Flett
Mrs Green Mrs Weightman-Edge Mr Briddon Mr Allsobrook Mr Tidmarsh Mrs Bumby
If you wish to report student absences, please contact the relevant pastoral staff to your son/daughter’s year group as indicated above.
Department Contacts: Art – Mrs K Fairbank Business & Computing – Mr I Lovatt D&T – Miss A Morris Drama & Dance – Miss E Bonsall English – Mr R Key Film Studies – Mr C Warrington Geography – Mrs M Barker History – Mrs J Clifford Maths – Miss S Wallhead
Be the best you can
Modern Foreign Languages – Mrs M Bowen Music – Mr K Rowley PE – Mr C Shirtcliffe Psychology – Miss H Ould PRS – Mrs S Blakesley PSHE/L2L – Mrs Turner SENCO – Mr M Hodkin Science – Mrs C Morgan Sociology – Mrs A Serjeant - 24 -
Highfields School
Issue 01: 6 September 2019
Newsletter Key Dates Dates are correct at the time of going to print.
2019-20 academic year:
2019-20 bank holidays (school closed):
Term Term Term Term Term Term
25 and 26 December 2019 1 January 2020 10 April 2020 (Good Friday) 13 April 2020 (Easter Monday) 8 May 2020 (Friday) 25 May 2020 (spring bank holiday)
1 2 3 4 5 6
-
3 September 2019 to 25 October 2019 4 November 2019 to 20 December 2019 6 January 2020 to 14 February 2020 24 February 2020 to 3 April 2020 20 April 2020 to 22 May 2020 1 June 2020 to 21 July 2020
2019-20 CPD days (school closed to students): Tuesday 3 September 2019 Friday 6 December 2019 Friday 3 July 2020 Monday 20 July 2020 Tuesday 21 July 2020
2019-20 Parents’ consultation evenings: Year 13: Year 12: Year 9: Year 11: Year 8: Year 10: Year 7:
Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday
19 November 2019 3 December 2019 14 January 2020 (including GCSE option choices for year 10) 28 January 2020 11 February 2020 3 March 2020 17 March 2020
2019-20 school events (further details will be issued prior to each event along with confirmation of times): Year 12 success in the sixth form Tuesday 17 September 2019 (7-8.30pm Wheeldon Hall) (for year 12 parents/carers) Year 6 open afternoon & evening Thursday 19 September 2019: 2-4pm both sites for tours 6.30-8.30pm Starkholmes only for presentation/tours Year 7 induction Tuesday 24 September 2019 (during the school day) Wednesday 25 September 2019 (during the school day) PTFA Annual General Meeting Wednesday 9 October 2019 (6.30pm Lumsdale, L6) Starkholmes Disco Thursday 24 October 2019 (7-9pm Bowler Hall, Starkholmes) Sixth form open evening Thursday 7 November 2019 (6-8.30pm Wheeldon Hall) Careers Convention Thursday 14 November 2019 (6pm Sports Hall) Children in Need extravaganza Friday 15 November 2019 (4-9pm Wheeldon Hall) Year 11 mock exams (1) Monday 25 November-Thursday 5 December 2019 Christmas concert Tuesday 10 December 2019 (7-9pm Wheeldon Hall) Year 13 certificates evening Monday 16 December 2019 (7pm Wheeldon Hall) Evenings of Theatre Wednesday 22 January 2020 (7pm Bowler Hall, Starkholmes) Thursday 23 January 2020 (7pm Bowler Hall, Starkholmes) Highfields Got Talent Thursday 13 February 2020 (7pm Bowler Hall, Starkholmes) Year 11 mock exams (2) Monday 24 - Friday 28 February 2020 Evening of Dance Wednesday 18 March 2020 (7pm Bowler Hall, Starkholmes) Year 9 non-core exam weeks Monday 23 March – Friday 3 April 2020
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 01: 6 September 2019
Newsletter 2019-20 school events cont/… Sports Leaders awards evening Year 10 exam weeks GCSE/A level exams start Year 8 exams Year 12 exams Year 7 exams Y12 higher education evening Year 9 core exams Y11 Prom GCSE/GCE exam contingency day School musical*
*please note the musical is earlier this year
Y10 work experience day Y10 work experience (2 weeks) New year 12 induction days Year 6 visit Starkholmes Year 7 sponsored walk / year 8 visit Lumsdale Year 9 enterprise day Year 6 parents evening Year 7, year 8 & year 9 sports day
Thursday 2 April 2020 (6-8pm Wheeldon Hall) Monday 27 April-Thursday 7 May 2020 Monday 11 May 2020 Monday 1 June – Friday 5 June 2020 Wednesday 3 June-Tuesday 9 June 2020 Monday 8 June – Friday 12 June 2020 Wednesday 10 June 2020 (7-8.30pm Wheeldon Hall) Thursday 18 June- Friday 19 June 2020 (sports hall) Friday 19 June 2020 Wednesday 24 June 2020 Wednesday 24 June – Saturday 27 June 2020 (7.30pm Wheeldon Hall) Friday 26 June 2020 (during school day) Monday 29 June - Friday 10 July 2020 Monday 29 June 2020 and Tuesday 30 June 2020 (during school day) Wednesday 1 July 2020 (during school day) Wednesday 1 July 2020 (during school day) Wednesday 1 July 2020 (during school day) Thursday 2 July 2020 (6.30pm, Starkholmes) Thursday 9 July 2020 (during school day at Lumsdale)
2020 exam results days: A Level exam results: Thursday 13 August 2020
Be the best you can
GCSE exam results: Thursday 20 August 2020
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Highfields School
Issue 01: 6 September 2019
Newsletter 2019-20 academic year Term dates: 3 September 2019 - 25 October 2019 4 November 2019- 20 December 2019 6 January 2020 - 14 February 2020 24 February 2020 - 3 April 2020 20 April 2020 - 22 May 2020 1 June 2020 - 21 July 2020
Bank holidays: 25 and 26 December 2019 1 January 2020 10 April 2020 (Good Friday) 13 April 2020 (Easter Monday) Friday 8 May 2020* 25 May 2020 (spring bank holiday) 31 August 2020 (summer bank holiday)
INSET days (no students in school): Tuesday 3 September 2019 Friday 6 December 2019 Friday 3 July 2020 Monday 20 and Tuesday 21 July 2020
* Change to May Bank Holliday: Next year's early May bank holiday has been moved back by four days for the whole of the UK to coincide with the 75th anniversary of VE Day. May Day was scheduled to be held on Monday 4 May but will be put back to Friday 8 May for 2020 only.
2020-21 academic year These dates are provisional and subject to change. Term dates: 2 September 2020 to 23 October 2020 2 November to 18 December 4 January 2021 to 12 February 2021 22 February 2021 to 1 April 2021 19 April 2021 to 28 May 2021 7 June 2021 to 22 July 2021
Be the best you can
INSET days (no students in school): Dates to be confirmed
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Highfields School
Issue 01: 6 September 2019
Newsletter School to home communication In order to improve communication with parents/carers and to reduce the substantial cost and environmental impact associated with the amount of paper and photocopying involved in school mailings all correspondence is sent to parents/carers via email only. Our aim is that only students’ assessment profiles/data sheets, and of course, confidential or personal mail will be posted home. We fully understand that some parents/carers may wish to continue to have paper copies sent home rather than to receive communication by email and we will make arrangements to ensure that it is possible for this to continue upon request. Please contact the relevant year managers at school to update your details if you do not currently receive email communications from Highfields: Lower school site (Starkholmes): Mrs Green
Year Manager (year 7) tgreen@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Mrs Weightman-Edge
Year Manager (year 8) Hweightman-edge@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Upper school site (Lumsdale): Mr Briddon
Year Manager (year 9) sbriddon@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Mr Allsobrook
Year Manager (year 10) callsobrook@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Mr Tidmarsh
Year Manager (year 11) dtidmarsh@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Mrs Bumby
Year Manager (sixth form) pbumby@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
ParentView Survey We would like to remind you that you have the opportunity to give your views of school through the Ofsted Parent View survey below. https://parentview.ofsted.gov.uk/ The survey is designed by Ofsted and is used by Inspectors when making decisions about which schools to inspect and when.
Be the best you can
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