Issue 16

Highfields School Newsletter

2022-23

Issue 16: 27 January 2023

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 and for your support.

A Marsh Headteacher

Message from the headteacher

A feature of Highfields School is that it is an inclusive, community school. When, a while ago, a local private school closed, one of the parents became frustrated with me that we had no places for their child who was ‘extremely talented in music’. I tried to explain that, if we have places, we admit children irrespective of their skills, talents, backgrounds, gender, ethnicity and pretty much everything else. Our focus is ensuring that once we have the child, they develop and become brilliant, wellbalanced, principled future members of society.

That’s how we end up with classrooms where the daughter of a lawyer making a very decent living sits next to the son of a parent whose recent redundancy has left them financially bereft. In the classroom next door a Ukrainian child who arrived 6 months ago sits next to a student whose ancestors have been in the area for hundreds of years.

The EveningofTheatrethis week exemplified so much of what ‘inclusive’ in its truest sense means. ‘Who’ people are (gender, class, socioeconomic background etc) becomes irrelevant as each student becomes a company member trying to create something brilliant.

And create something brilliant they definitely did under the inspired leadership of Emily Bonsall and Sian Scattergood. There were so many wonderful moments, but a highlight for me was seeing a close working partnership between a sixth form boy destined for university and a Y9 student who happens to have a disability. With all this talk of ‘toxic masculinity’ currently, I couldn’t help feeling a little emotional as I saw the older, more experienced student lead the younger through the scene (he had obviously directed this lad through the rehearsal process as well, steadily building his levels of skill and confidence). Then a Y7 came out, newly arrived from Ukraine, and danced across the stage with such grace and skill that my heart almost beat out of my chest.

When the junior musical was staged the older performers could have gone home as their work was staged in the first half. But instead, they gathered in a throng at the back of the auditorium and shrieked with laughter at the funny bits and burst into rapturous applause at big finishes. This the inclusivity I have been chasing my whole professional life. Not ‘inclusion at a cost’ where standards are dumbed down in case struggling students are left behind but ‘inclusion as a driver of excellence’ where the depth and difference of student backgrounds actually results in a magical blend which drives everyone forward towards doing something brilliant. I KNOW we are not yet there but even to see glimpses of it is exhilarating for someone like me.

As if my evening couldn’t get any better, a very kind mum bought me a tub of ice-cream for seeing her daughter across the road in the morning (which I see as doing my job, but she felt was ‘over and above’).

In lessons this week I saw a brilliant example of a science teacher driving home an idea (natural selection) through a range of activities including one where they simulated the effectiveness of birds with different shaped beaks in picking up food - the spoonbills won (and therefore survived natural selection).

And finally… Highfields Y11 boys beat Ecclesbourne 5 - 4 in the County Cup to progress to the next round and Y8/9 girls beat Dronfield Henry Fanshawe School 8-7 on pens.

What a week! Time for a quick breather…have a marvellous weekend.

A Marsh, Headteacher

Parents/Carers Update

Planned industrial action of the NEU: 1 February

Highfields School will remain open to year 11, year 12, year 13 and vulnerable students on 1 February for the one-day planned industrial action of the NEU.

Students will be based on one site only on this day and buses will operate as usual to drop off students at Lumsdale (upper school site) – please see letter issued via Weduc on 25.1.23 for full details of the arrangements.

Volunteers for Year 11 Mock Interviews – Thursday 16 February

We are holding mock interviews for our year 11 students on 16 February, and we are reaching out to parents/carers to see if anyone has experience at interviewing in the workplace and would be free to help in holding individual interview sessions with some of our Y11 students.

We held interviews for our previous Y11 cohort and feedback from both students and volunteers indicated that the day was a big success.

Interviews will last around 10-15 minutes each and volunteers will be provided with a list of questions (although we are happy for you to ask your own questions if you would prefer). Students will be expected to bring a copy of their CV to discuss, and interviewers would ideally be able to give some quick feedback on both their interview and CV. The aim is to give students the experience of an inperson interview and what to expect.

Interviews are taking place face to face at our Lumsdale site with the following session times available:

 Session 1: 9.00am until 10.45am

 Session 2: 11.00am until 12.40pm

 Session 3: 1.40pm until finish (hopefully no later than 3pm)

If you are able to attend one or more sessions, please contact Mrs Bromwich (kalcock@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk) and we will provide full details for you.

Thank you in advance for your support.

Y11 mock exams – February/March

Y11 students will start their mock exams on Monday 27 February in the sports hall. Students will be given their exam timetable shortly and this will also be uploaded to the school website.

Action Required:

Y9 vaccinations for Teenage Booster (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Polio) and Meningitis ACWY & Y10 catch up vaccinations

The School Age Immunisation Service (SAIS) for Derbyshire and Derby City will be offering all year 9 students the Teenage Booster (Tetanus, Diphtheria and Polio) and Meningitis ACWY vaccinations on 7 February 2023.

Year 9 parents/carers are required to complete the consent form via the link below: www.derbyshireandcityimms.co.uk/Forms/DTP. The option to consent or decline the vaccination is at the end of the questionnaire so please complete the form whether you are consenting or not. School code: DD112950

Y10 catch up vaccinations: for students who missed their immunisations in Y9 but where consent was provided, the immunisation team will be able to give catch up vaccinations on 7 February along with the Y9s.

Further information about vaccinations offered in school can be accessed via the link below or on the NHS website:

A Guide to Immunisations for Young People

www.derbyshirefamilyhealthservice.nhs.uk/our-services/5-10-years/school-age-immunisations

If you experience any problems, please contact the School Age Immunisation Team.

Repton: 01283 707178

Clay Cross: 01246 252953

DCHST.immunisationteam@nhs.net

Highfields and Cluster School’s Family Support Team would like to invite you to our

Forthcoming events: January & February

Tuesday 31 January: Y11 virtual parent consultation evening

Tuesday 7 February: Y9 TDP/Men ACWY immunisations in school / Y10 catch up

Tuesday 14 February: Y8 virtual parent consultation evening

Thursday 16 February: Y11 mock interviews (during the day)

Monday 27 February: Y11/Y13 mock exams start

School sport and sports leaders news

Mrs Allen, School Sports Co-ordinator

Youth Sport Trust Inclusive Sport Week

During the week several webinars have been run by YST covering shots taken, disability sport, school spotlight and inclusive co-creation, as part of inclusive sport week.

Primary Health Day 2023

On Tuesday we held the primary health day at Lumsdale with students attending from Tansley, Lea, Wessington, South Darley, St Joseph’s, Winster, Elton and Darley Dale primary schools.

Highfields sports leaders assisted and led activities along with external providers providing Zumba led by Kim Robinson of Robinson School of Dance, Martial Arts led by Conrad from Snap Dragons and Mark and Andrew from Outspoken cycles.

Students rode bikes to make smoothies and took part in time challenges. Leaders also assisted students to fill in health booklets and relay races.

This was an exciting event which all the schools loved taking part in. We received numerous comments of praise for our Highfields leaders especially Hana B, Tom W, Isla W and Jenson J –well done to all taking part!

FA Girls National Webinar

On Thursday Mrs Allen and Miss Paley took part in the FA Girls national webinar, in preparation for the forthcoming sessions with our Girl FA leaders who will be running activities on Wednesday 8 March - the national day of girls football for both primary and secondary students.

Advance Notice:

Tuesday 31 January – KS1 multi-sports at Lumsdale, sports hall.

Student Bulletin

Week commencing Monday 30 January 2023: Week B

Y9 geography fieldwork in lessons (all week)

Monday: Y9 assembly

Tuesday: Y7 and Y10 assembly Y11 virtual parent consultation evening

Wednesday: Y11, Y12, Y13 and vulnerable students only in school due to NEU industrial action. All students working from home to work on Show My Homework. Y11 assembly

Thursday: Y8 and sixth form assembly

Friday: -

See the list of extra-curricular activities taking place at lunch time and after school each day on both school sites.

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

School lunch menu

Week B menu: week commencing Monday 30 January 2023

Hot dish of the day Light bites

Organic Beef Burger G in a bun G served with mini herb potatoes, baked beans & coleslaw

E/Mu

Vegetable Burger G/Mu

Ve in a bun G served with mini herb potatoes baked beans & coleslaw

E/Mu

Shepherd's Pie M

Cheese Panini

Cheese/Ham Panini

Jacket Potato

Love Joe Wrap/Panini

Pasta Bake

Pasta/Sauce

Thursday

Vegan Shepherd's Pie So Ve

Roast Pork & Stuffing G with creamed potatoes and apple sauce. M seasonal vegetables & gravy

Vegan Sausage

Casserole G Ve

Chicken Tikka Masala Mwith Brown/White Rice Seasonal Veg & Naan G

Vegetable & Lentil Curry seved with Brown/White Rice

Seasonal Veg & Naan G Ve

Battered Fish F/G served with Chips Peas & Baked Beans

Friday

Cheesy Bean

Enchilada G/M served with Chips Peas & Carrots Ve

Cheese Panini

Cheese/Ham Panini

Jacket Potato

Love Joe Wrap/Panini

Pasta Bake

Pasta/Sauce

Desserts Break

Rosalie Biscuit G

Chocolate Crunch G/M

Apple & Cinnamon Cobbler E/G/M

Bacon Cobs

Croissants

Toasties

Toast

Teacakes

Crumpets Fresh Fruit

Yoghurt

Cheese Panini

Cheese/Ham Panini

Jacket Potato

Love Joe Wrap/Panini

Pasta Bake Pasta/Sauce

Shortbread Slice G

Berry Muffin E/G

Chocolate Orange Sponge

E/G

Chocolate Orange Rosalie

G

Chocolate Cracknel G/M

Fruit Crumble G

Bacon Cob

KP Garlic Bread

Bread Rolls

Cheese Bagels

Toast and Jam

Teacakes

Crumpets Fresh Fruit

Yoghurt

Bacon Cob

Pizza Baguette

KP Garlic Bread

Toasties

Teacakes

Toast

Crumpets

Fresh Fruit

Yoghurt

Cheese Panini

Cheese & Ham Panini

Jacket Potato

Love Joe Wrap/Panini

Pasta Bake Pasta/Sauce

Oat Cookie G/Su

Chocolate Brownie E/G

Syrup Sponge

Cheese Panini

Cheese/Ham Panini

Jacket Potato

Love Joe Wrap/Panini

Pasta Bake Pasta/Sauce

Cherry & Coconut Cookie

G/Su

Flapjack E/G

Rhubarb & Lemon

Sponge E/G

Bacon Cob

Sausage Cob

KP Garlic Bread

Cheesy Wheels

Toast/Jam

Teacakes

Crumpets

Fresh Fruit

Yoghurt

Bacon Cob

Flavoured Naan

Pizza Baguette

BBQ & Cheese Wraps

Toast

Teacakes

Crumpets Fresh Fruit Yoghurt

Monday

Extra-curricular clubs and activities

Students are encouraged to participate in a number of extra-curricular activities that take place either at lunch time or after school across both sites. The list of clubs is regularly updated and students are given the details during tutor time.

Starkholmes (lower school site)

C L U B S

Lunch After school

 Y7 homework club in room 4

 Y8 homework club in room 7 with Mrs Green

 Y7/8 ‘acting for stage and screen’ in the Performing Arts mobile with Miss Scattergood

 Y7/8 sports leaders in the gym with Miss Judson

Tuesday

Wednesday

 Warhammer club (all years) with Mrs Weightman Edge and Mr Bishton at Lumsdale (upper school site) from 3.30-4.40pm in C5

 Y7-11 girls’ football on the all-weather pitch at Lumsdale with Mr Shirtcliffe and Miss Paley

 Y8 Dungeons and dragons club in room 1 from 3.30pm-4.30pm with Miss Poundall

 Y7-8 Art club Week B 3.45-4.45 in C6 (Lumsdale) with Miss Sellars

 Y7/8 dance club in the Performing Arts mobile with Miss Scattergood

 Junior Choir in the Music room with Mrs Morris

 LGBT+ group S6 with Dr Tout and Miss Paley

 Y7 homework club in room 4

 Y8 homework club in room 7 with Miss Judson

 Table tennis in the gym with Mr Searson

 Y8 creative writing in 1A with Miss Fearn

 Geoglebox (Geography-themed TV ... David Attenborough etc) in Room 2

 Y7/8 Astronomy club in Lab 3 with Mr Ruston

Thursday

 Y8 boys’ football on the all-weather pitch at Lumsdale with Mr Roberts and Mr Searson

Friday

 Y7/8 fitness club in the gym with Miss Paley

 ‘Boys move’ in the gym with Mr Searson and Mr Waller

 Y7 film club in 1A with Miss Fearn

 Keyboard clinic in the Music room with Mr Rowley

 Computing club in room 4 with Mr Lovatt

 Y7 Craft club in room 1 with Miss Mitchell

 Warhammer and Chess club in room 8 with Miss Tatam

 Y7 homework club in room 4

 Y8 homework club in room 7 with Mrs Green

 Y7 book club (week B) at 1.15pm in the library

 Y8 book club (week A) at 1.15pm in the library

 Y7/8 gardening club outside HoY

 Y8 film club in 1A with Miss Fearn

 Junior Orchestra in the music room with Mr Stacey

 Mini Musical from 3.30-4.30pm in the performing arts mobile with Miss Bonsall and Miss Scattergood

 Y7 boys’ football on the all-weather pitch at Lumsdale with Mr Roberts and Mr Searson

 Y7/8 rugby on the field with Mr Shirtcliffe

 Y7-8 netball at Lumsdale with Mrs Wildgoose

Monday

Lumsdale (upper school site)

Lunch

 Y11 GCSE further maths in M3 and M4

 Homework club (all years) in H4

 MusicLab (Music Technology) in D3 with Mr. Rowley

 Senior Choir in MU1 with Mrs. Morris / Mr. Rowley

C L U B S

After school

 Warhammer club (all years) with Mrs Weightman Edge and Mr Bishton at Lumsdale (upper school site) from 3.30-4.40pm in C5

 Duke of Edinburgh (week A) with Mrs Wildgoose, Mr Archer and Miss Paley

 Y7-11 girls’ football on the all-weather pitch with Miss Paley and Mr Shirtcliffe

 Y9-13 rugby on the field with Mrs Bowen and sixth form

 Y12/13 netball on courts with Mrs Cruise

 Sixth form football on the all-weather pitch with Sheffield FC

 Y9-13 Art club Week A 3.45-4.45 in C6 with Miss Sellars

Tuesday

Wednesday

 Musical Theatre club (all years) in P1 with Miss Bonsall

 Fitness (all years) in the sports hall with Mr Shirtcliffe

 Homework club (all years) in H4

 Drama club (all years) in P1 with Miss Bonsall

 Badminton ‘smash up’ (all years) in the sports hall with Mr Shirtcliffe

 Y10/11 Computing homework support in IT1 with Mrs Hadfield

 GCSE maths revision with Mr Moss

 Homework club (all years) in H4

 GCSE Geography revision and support in H2

Thursday

 Sixth form football, Sheffield FC

Friday

 Boys only drama club (all years) in P1 with Miss Bonsall

 Basketball (all years) in the sports hall with Mr Briddon

 Y9-11 science demo club at 1.10pm in S3 with Mr Atkins

 GCSE maths revision with Mr Moss

 Homework club (all years) in H4

 LGBT+ group S1 with Dr Tout and Miss Paley

 Gardening club (all years) in S1

 Y9-11 sports leaders in the sports hall with Mrs Allen and Miss Paley

 Duke of Edinburgh with Mrs Wildgoose

 Homework club (all years) in H4

 GCSE Business drop-in in H4

 Year 11 drama intervention from 3.30 -4.30pm with Miss Bonsall

 Year 11 dance intervention at lower site, Performing Arts mobile, from 3.30-4.40pm with Mrs Hollinrake

 Y9-11 boys’ football on the all-weather pitch with Mr Searson, Mr Waller and Mr Moss

 Photography/art GCSE club 3:20-4:30pm C5 with Miss Sellars

 Y9-11 Dance Club in the Wheeldon Hall

 Y9/10/11 fitness club in the sports hall with Mr Waller

 Y7-11 netball on the courts with Mrs Wildgoose

 Sixth form maths drop in with Mr Moss and Mrs Brown

 Wind Band in the 6th Form Canteen

 Dungeons and dragons club, Y9-11 in C8 with Miss Poundall

Careers, College & Apprenticeship News

Careers Information 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/students/work-experience-careers/

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:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/careers

Unifrog Careers programme

The careers programme ‘Unifrog’ offers students careers advice, support and guidance and students. Students in years 10 and 11 will be given log on details during the year to access Unifrog. www.unifrog.org

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 will be given their student code during the year to be able to access the programme at home via the website (www.startprofile.com).

Sixth form career opportunities

Please visit our website to find the latest sixth form careers opportunities: https://www.highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk/sixth-form/sixth-form-opportunities/

My Future app and website

My Future is a virtual gateway to support students with their next steps.

• Meet local employers and explore apprenticeship opportunities

• Work with training providers to learn about and access courses that are available

• Virtually visit post 16 institutions including colleges and universities

• Learn about the employment opportunities in your town

To access My Future click on the link below: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/learning/myfuture/

Speakers for Schools - Youth Card for students

Speakers for Schools has a free mobile app that provides a one-stop shop for 11-25-year-olds for selfled discovery of educational, career and personal development opportunities in a safe environment. Youth Card is uniquely placed to help students by offering:

 Free access to UK-wide work experience placements and workshops with leading employers, including: Spotify, Bentley Motors, bp, Google, NHS, Virgin Atlantic, The Financial Times, Santander and the BBC.

 Free access to UK-wide financial and enterprise programmes.

 Free access to a UK-wide network of 7,000 youth organisations.

 Free access to inspiring podcasts, broadcasts and short films by heads of industry and high-profile speakers

 Free access to a wide range of youth-friendly discounted services in the UK and Europe.

To find out more about Youth Card, visit www.youthcard.org

Early Careers - Network Rail

Click the link below to view a range of opportunities with network rail: https://www.networkrail.co.uk/careers/early-careers/

Apprenticeship opportunities

Rolls-Royce Apprenticeships and upcoming webinars

Applications open now for Advanced and Higher Engineering Apprenticeships with Rolls-Royce

Whether you’re still studying or looking for a change of career direction, an Advanced Engineering Apprenticeship or a Higher Apprenticeship will give you the chance to gain valuable skills and qualifications and learn at the same time as you earn.

As well as the outstanding career support you'll enjoy, and the debt-free qualifications you'll gain, you’ll get to work alongside and share ideas with trainees from lots of different backgrounds – in an environment where you can be yourself and be your best.

For further information click the link below: https://careers.rolls-royce.com/united-kingdom/students-and-graduates/apprenticeships-and-schoolleavers?goal=0_65c6d67e71-a30374cf03-180520129&mc_cid=a30374cf03&mc_eid=529207cf8f

Insight Webinars for students, parents and career leaders!

See links below to access the following webinars with CBRE, National Audit Office, Jaguar Land Rover, Rolls-Royce, EDF Energy, Google, Zurich Insurance and Deloitt.

Start your career, your way with Rolls-Royce

Rolls-Royce is solving some of the world’s biggest technological challenges –and addressing some of society’s most pressing issues – through the delivery of clean, sustainable power.

On: 2nd February 2023 at 6.30 - 7.30 pm

For: Students and parents of those in years 10 to 13. Career leaders and teachers are encouraged to join.

Book your place today

Energy sector apprenticeships at EDF Energy

If you’re passionate about tackling climate change, our Apprenticeship programme offers you the opportunity to develop an exciting career whilst helping progress the UK towards a Net Zero future.

On: 21st February 2023 at 6.30 - 7.30 pm

For: Students and parents of those in years 10 to 13. Career leaders and teachers are encouraged to join.

Book your place today

Accountancy apprenticeships with the National Audit Office

Find out about their successful Chartered Accountancy training scheme open to school leavers and gain a professional qualification combined with real work experience.

On: 31st January 2023 at 6.30 - 7.30 pm

For: Students and parents of those in years 10 to 13. Career leaders and teachers are encouraged to join.

Book your place today

Real Estate apprenticeships with CBRE

CBRE has opportunities for everyone and so come and find out what is available at the world’s largest Commercial Real Estate firm and help shape the future of the real estate.

On: 24th January 2023 at 6.30 - 7.30 pm

For: Students and parents of those in years 10 to 13. Career leaders and teachers are encouraged to join.

Book your place today

Apprenticeships at Jaguar Land RoverBecome the Future of Movement

The evolution of vehicles has never been more exciting. Find out more about apprenticeship opportunities, get hints & tips for your applications, and hear from current apprentices about why they think Jaguar Land Rover is the perfect place to start your career.

On: 8th February 2023 at 6.30 - 7.30 pm

For: Students and parents of those in years 10 to 13. Career leaders and teachers are encouraged to join.

Book your place today

Zurich Insurance Apprenticeships Insight Webinar

Insurance is so much more than you think! Zurich apprenticeships cover not only claims and underwriting but also opportunities such as Data Science, Operations & IT and Marketing, plus more. These range from Level 3 apprenticeships right up to Level 6-degree apprenticeships.

On: 28th February 2023 at 6.30 - 7.30 pm

For: Students and parents of those in years 10 to 13. Career leaders and teachers are encouraged to join.

Book your place today

Google Apprenticeships Insight Webinar

Google is an American multinational technology company focusing on search engine technology, online advertising, cloud computing, computer software, quantum computing, e-commerce, artificial intelligence, and consumer electronics.

On: 23rd February 2023 at 6.30 - 7.30 pm

For: Students and parents of those in years 10 to 13. Career leaders and teachers are encouraged to join.

Book your place today

All About Deloitte Apprenticeships webinar

Deloitte is a leading global provider of audit and assurance, consulting, financial advisory, risk advisory, tax, and related services. Their culture and purpose - to make an impact that matters - is shared by their member firms all over the world.

On: 15th February 2023 at 6.30 - 7.30 pm

For: Students and parents of those in years 10 to 13. Career leaders and teachers are encouraged to join.

Book your place today

New apprenticeship opportunities with leading companies:

Explore opportunities with National Audit Office

Location: Newcastle and Greater London

Deadline: 27th March 2023

Latest opportunities: Apprentice Accountancy Scheme 2023

Explore opportunities with EDF Energy

Location: Bridgewater, Gloucester

Latest opportunities: Radiation Protection, Maintenance and Operations, Nuclear Engineering, Chemistry, Project Controls, DevOps and Business apprenticeships

Click here to register for the event

Location: Online

Date: Tuesday, 7th of February 2023, 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM Event: In conversation with: our apprentices

Explore apprenticeships with PwC

Location: Nationwide

Latest opportunities: Multiple School Leaver and Apprenticeship opportunities

Explore opportunities with CBRE

Location: Nationwide

Latest opportunities: Building Surveying, Human Resources, Quantity Surveying and Project Management, Environmental Consultancy, Real Estate, Marketing apprenticeships

JLR Technical Apprenticeships

Location: West Midlands and North West England

Latest opportunities: Level 3 and Level 6 apprenticeships across Digital, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Applied Engineering and Automotive

JLR Retailer Apprenticeships

Location: Nationwide

Latest opportunities: Customer Service, Service Technician, Parts Assistant apprenticeships

VWG Apprenticeships

Location: Nationwide

Latest opportunities: Customer Service, Parts Sales Executive, Service Technician, Parts Assistant apprenticeships

Explore opportunities with Rolls-Royce

Location: Nationwide

Latest opportunities: Engineering, Manufacturing, Software Engineering, Digital & IT, Electrical & Electronics, Supply Chain, Nuclear Engineering, Finance, Project Management, Commercial, Materials Engineering, NonDestructive Testing, Nuclear Business, Aerospace Services, Marketing, Quality Management apprenticeships

National Apprenticeship Week 2023

National Apprentices Week takes place between 6-12 February 2023. Throughout the week top employers and organisations come together to showcase their opportunities to thousands of attendees who are actively seeking an apprenticeship.

For full details visit: https://nationalapprenticeshipweek.co.uk/

Finding an apprenticeship

Full details of apprenticeships available can be accessed through the government website on the following link - https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship

Registrations for the NHS Allied Healthcare Work Experience Programme

Registrations for the NHS Allied Healthcare Work Experience Programme are open for the next session on Sunday 5 February. This programme is suitable for students in years 10-13 / S3-S6 / NI11-14 interested in working in healthcare.

Registration Link: https://alliedhealthmentor.org/product/live-virtual-work-experience-programme/

The NHS Allied Healthcare Virtual Work Experience successfully invited 12,000 students to participate in its programme last academic year, making it the largest programme for students who are considering the following careers:

Nursing

Midwifery

Paramedicine

Physiotherapy

Occupational Therapy

Dietetics

Radiography

Prosthetics and Orthotics

Speech and Language Therapy

Pharmacy

Once registered, students will be emailed links to their virtual work experience portals. Students are awarded a Work Experience Certificate for every session they complete. Those who complete the full 5-month programme will be awarded a Highly Commended Reference from the Presidents of Allied Healthcare Mentor. These are fantastic additions to their CVs!

During the work experience day, students will follow 2 patients from their initial presentation to recovery. They will gain a unique insight into how patients interact with a variety of healthcare professionals and what it’s like to work in an NHS multidisciplinary team.

Attendees will have the opportunity to interact with healthcare professionals throughout each day. This will empower students to make informed career decisions and demonstrate their commitment to healthcare in their UCAS applications.

Students can register individually at any time throughout the 5-month programme using the link below. We recommend booking early to gain as much out of this programme as possible. Places are £10 a session to cover administrative and technological costs.

https://alliedhealthmentor.org/nhs-healthcare-careers-virtual-work-experience/

Student information

School to home communication

All students have a school email account and should check this regularly as well as Show My Homework (checking Monday to Friday during the school term) for the latest updates and homework.

School Website / VLE

Resources are available on the school website www.highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk

Students can access ‘all users’ from home from the Highfields School website:

 Go to Highfields School homepage

 Click on ‘portals’

 Click on ‘student portal’

 Enter school IT username (not email address) and password

 Find ‘all users Starkholmes’ or ‘all users Lumsdale’ on the right hand side

 Select the appropriate department/folder required.

If students have forgotten their password please email reset@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk specifying your username and tutor group to request a new password.

Show My Homework online homework submission guidance

Students should be submitting work through the SMHW platform.

The link below is from SMHW and explains how to do this or you can follow the steps below: https://help.teamsatchel.com/en/articles/2912000-submitting-my-work-online

Free Microsoft Office for Students

Students at Highfields School can download Microsoft Office for free on up to five devices, for the duration of their time as a student at the school.

Microsoft Office can be installed on compatible desktop computers, tablets, and mobile phones: https://www.highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk/students/office-for-students/

Highfields School uniform

A strict uniform code 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 is designed to be clear and can be accessed on the following link: https://www.highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk/our-school/uniform/.

Parents/carers are encouraged to check with the school on 01629 581888 where they are unsure on any item of school uniform.

Trutex Direct and Kick Off Sport both stock Highfields uniform. Kick Off Sport also stock the Highfields PE kit. Orders can be placed on line both with Trutex Direct (https://www.trutex.com/) and Kick Off Sport (https://www.kickoffsport.co.uk/) if you know the size and items required without the need to visit a store directly. To assist with purchasing the right sizes Kick Off Sport have produced a size guide (see links below).

Various information has been prepared on our school uniform and can be accessed on the links below or from the school website:

FAQs:

Uniform size guide: https://www.highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/UniformSizeGuide.pdf

Please also refer to guidance for footwear for our new all-weather pitch: https://www.highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk/wpcontent/uploads/2021/08/FootballFoundationFootwear.pdf

The National Hereditary Breast Cancer Helpline shop of Firs Parade in Matlock take donations of Highfields School uniform.

Community news

Soccersixes Monday League

Communication with school – contact details

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.

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.

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:

Lower school site (Starkholmes) - to contact year managers for years 7 or 8:

Mr Allsobrook - Year Manager (year 7)

Email: callsobrook@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk

Mrs Green – Year Manager (year 8)

Email: tgreen@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk

Direct line: 01629 832314 or ext 244

Direct line: 01629 832313 or ext 235

Upper school site (Lumsdale) - to contact year managers for years 9 to 13:

Miss Esposito – Year Manager (year 9)

Email: aesposito@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk

Mr Tidmarsh - Year Manager (year 10)

Email: dtidmarsh@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk

Mrs Weightman Edge - Year Manager (year 11)

Email: hweightman-edge@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk

Mrs Sargeant - Year Manager (sixth form)

Email: rsargeant@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk

General email contacts

Direct line: 01629 832348 or ext 364

Direct line: 01629 832329 or ext 111

Direct line: 01629 832345 or ext 159

Direct line: 01629 832389 or ext 165

General email: info@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk

Admissions: admissions@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk

Chair of Governors: chair@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk

SENCO: mhodkin@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.

Key Staff for 2022-23

Headteacher:

Mr A Marsh

Deputy Headteacher: Mr P R Cole

Assistant Headteachers: Mrs C Rifkin

Mr M Hodkin

Directors of Catch-up

Mrs C Morgan (Curriculum) Mr G Roberts (Engagement)

Heads of Year:

Year 7 Mrs A Ruston

Year 8 Miss J Hughes

Year 9 Mrs A Hollinrake / Mrs L Redhead

Year 10 Mr K Rodgers

Year 11 Mr A Bishton

Sixth form Mr M Flett

Year Managers:

Year 7 Mr Allsobrook

Year 8 Mrs Green

Year 9 Miss Esposito

Year 10 Mr Tidmarsh

Year 11 Mrs Weightman Edge

Sixth form Mrs R Sargeant

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 – Mr I Lovatt

Computing – Mr C Davies

D&T – Mrs C Hakin

Drama & Dance – Miss Bonsall

English – Mrs H Key

Film Studies – Mr C Warrington

Geography – Mrs M Barker

History – Mr P Copeland

Maths – Mrs R Brown

Modern Foreign Languages – Mrs M Bowen

Music – Mr K Rowley

PE – Mr C Shirtcliffe

Psychology – Miss H Ould

PRS – Mr R Platts

SENCO – Mr M Hodkin

Science – Mr R Atkins

Sociology – Mrs A Llewellyn

Highfields School Governing Board 2022-23

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 is made up of community, parent and staff governors each serving a four year term of office.

Name Governor Type Link Governor Area

Mr Rob Atkinson Chair of Governors Community Leadership and strategy

Mr Paul Steeples Vice Chair of Governors Community -

Mrs Allison Beesley Community -

Miss Joanne Coe Parent Safeguarding (H&S, wellbeing)

Ms Tina Fisher Community -

Mrs Amanda Goodall Community -

Miss Emma Hill Community Inclusion (SEND, behaviour, attendance)

Mr Dennis Holmes Parent Finance, resources and personnel Eco School committee link

Mr Andrew Marsh Headteacher -

Ms Deborah O’Donovan Community -

Mrs Selina Rodgers Parent Curriculum and standards

Dr Ewen Ross Parent -

Mr Duncan Whittam Community -

Mr Mark Webb Staff -

Highfields governing board has 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.

All governors are required to:

 undertake appropriate induction training

 prepare for and attend all meetings regularly

 undertake further training to develop their skills

Full details of Highfields Governing Board can be accessed on the school website: http://www.highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk/our-school/governors/

Key dates

Please note all calendar dates are provisional at this stage and are correct as of 1 September 2022.

2022-23 academic year

Term 1: 1 September 2022 to 21 October 2022

Term 2: 31 October 2022 to 22 December 2022

Term 3: 9 January 2023 to 17 February 2023

Term 4: 27 February 2023 to 31 March 2023

Term 5: 17 April 2023 to 26 May 2023

Term 6: 5 June 2023 to 21 July 2023

2022-23 parent consultation evenings

Y13 parents evening (4-7pm)

Y12 parents evening (4-7pm)

Y9 parents evening (4-7pm) virtual

Y11 parents evening (4-7pm) virtual

Y8 parents evening (4-7pm) virtual

Y10 parents evening (4-7pm) virtual

Y7 parents evening (4-7pm) virtual

CPD days (no students in school)

Thursday 1 September 2022

Friday 21 October 2022

Monday 5 December 2022

Thursday 22 December 2022

Friday 30 June 2023

Tuesday 15 November 2022, 4-7pm (sixth form area)

Tuesday 29 November 2022, 4-7pm (sixth form area)

Tuesday 17 January 2023, 4-7pm (via School Cloud/Weduc)

Tuesday 31 January 2023, 4-7pm (via School Cloud/Weduc)

Tuesday 14 February 2023, 4-7pm (via School Cloud/Weduc)

Tuesday 7 March 2023, 4-7pm (via School Cloud/Weduc)

Tuesday 21 March 2023, 4-7pm (via School Cloud/Weduc)

2022-23 provisional school events (further details will be issued prior to each event)

Success in the Sixth Form evening

PTFA new parent social

Y6 open evening

Apprenticeships evening for Y12/13

PTFA AGM

Halloween Movie Night for Y7/8

Sixth form open evening

Y11 mock exams (1)

Y13 mock exams (1)

Christmas Concert

Christmas disco for Y7/8

A Level certificates evening

Y9 virtual options evening

Y7, 8 & 9 Flu immunisation sessions (NHS team)

Evening of Theatre (7-10pm)

Y9 immunisations - TDP & Men ACWY

Y11 mock interviews

Y11 mock exams (2)

Y13 mock exams (2)

Y9 Health day

Easter Concert

Y8/Y9 immunisations - HPV

Y10 internal exams

Sports Leaders Awards Evening

GCSEs / A level exam series begins

Y7 end of year internal exams

Y12 mock exams

Y8 end of year internal exams

Y9 internal exams

New Y12 induction sessions

Tuesday 13 September 2022, 7pm Wheeldon Hall, Lumsdale

Wednesday 14 September 2022, 6.30pm Designate, Matlock

Wednesday 21 September 2022, 6pm Wheeldon Hall, Lumsdale

Tuesday 11 October 2022, 7pm Wheeldon Hall, Lumsdale

Wednesday 19 October 2022, 6pm Lumsdale

Monday 31 October 2022, 4-6pm Bowler Hall, Starkholmes

Thursday 10 November 2022, 7pm Wheeldon Hall, Lumsdale

Monday 21 November – Friday 2 December 2022 (sports hall)

Monday 28 November – Friday 9 December 2022 (sports hall)

Wednesday 14 December 2022, 7-10pm, Wheeldon Hall, Lumsdale

Thursday 15 December 2022, 7-9pm Bowler Hall, Starkholmes

Wednesday 21 December 2022, 7pm Wheeldon Hall, Lumsdale

Wednesday 11 January 2022 – two sessions 6pm/7pm (virtual)

Thursday 19 January 2022 (both sites during the school day)

Wednesday 25 January and Thursday 26 January 2023, 7pm Bowler Hall, Starkholmes

Tuesday 7 February 2023, Lumsdale

Thursday 16 February 2023 (during school day)

Monday 27 February – Friday 10 March 2023, Sports Hall

Monday 27 February – Friday 10 March 2023, Sports Hall

Friday 3 February 2023 (during school day)

Wednesday 29 March 2023, 7-10pm Wheeldon Hall, Lumsdale

Tuesday 25 April 2023, both sites

Tuesday 2 May – Friday 12 May 2023, Sports Hall

Thursday 11 May 2023, 6-8pm Wheeldon Hall, Lumsdale

Monday 15 May 2023, Sports Hall

Monday 5 June – Friday 9 June 2023

Monday 5 June – Friday 16 June 2023, Sports Hall

Monday 12 June – Friday 16 June 2023

Monday 26 June – Thursday 29 June 2023

Tuesday 27 June – Wednesday 28 June 2023

Y13 Prom Thursday 29 June 2023, 7pm

Y10 work experience

Monday 3 July – Friday 7 July 2023

2022-23 provisional school events (cont/…)

Y6 visit Starkholmes

Y7 sponsored walk

Y8 visit Lumsdale

Y9 enterprise day

Y6 parents' evening

Whole school sports day

School Musical (7.30-10pm)

2023 exam results days (provisional tbc):

A Level exam results:

17 August 2023 tbc

School day:

Break 10:45 11:10

Additional Bank Holiday – May 2023

Wednesday 5 July 2023, Starkholmes

Wednesday 5 July 2023

Wednesday 5 July 2023, Lumsdale

Wednesday 5 July 2023, Lumsdale

Wednesday 5 July 2023, 6pm Bowler Hall, Starkholmes

Friday 7 July 2023

Wednesday 12 July-Saturday 15 July 2023, Wheeldon Hall, Lumsdale

GCSE exam results:

24 August 2023 tbc

There will be an additional bank holiday on Monday 8 May 2023 in honour of the coronation of King Charles III and school will be closed on this day.

2023-24 academic year and CPD days:

The term dates for the next academic year are: 

School is closed to students on the following CPD days:

 Monday 4 September 2023

 Friday 27 October 2023

 Monday 4 December 2023

 Friday 22 December 2023

 Friday 5 July 2024