Highfields School
Issue 25:
1 April 2022
Highfields School Newsletter Newsletter
2021-22
Issue 25: 1 April 2022
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
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 25:
1 April 2022
Newsletter
Contents: Message from the headteacher ....................................................................4 Parent/carer update.....................................................................................5
Stakeholder survey outcomes..................................................................................... 5 Reminder: HPV (Human Papilloma Vaccine) ............................................................... 5 o o
Year 8 vaccination consent – action required .................................................................... 5 Year 9, 10 and 11 second dose ....................................................................................... 5
Curriculum spotlight - Music and music technology ...................................................... 6
School news ................................................................................................ 7
Y13 geologists at National Stone Centre ..................................................................... 7 Biology competition news .......................................................................................... 8 Highfields Bake Off - Lumsdale .................................................................................. 9
School sport and sports leaders news ......................................................... 10
Health champions.................................................................................................... 10 Boys ‘Road to Wimbledon’ ....................................................................................... 11 Girls FA Change Maker ............................................................................................ 11 SSP High 5 Netball .................................................................................................. 11 Girls Time Project .................................................................................................... 12 Commonwealth Games activities .............................................................................. 12
School Meals ............................................................................................. 13
Derbyshire Catering takeover day: 7 April - National Burrito Day ................................ 14
Student bulletin ......................................................................................... 15
Extra-curricular clubs and activities........................................................................... 16
Careers, College & Apprenticeship News ..................................................... 18
Resources ............................................................................................................... 18 Careers inspiration and advice from BBC Bitesize....................................................... 18 Unifrog Careers programme ..................................................................................... 18 Online careers programme for 11-18 year olds .......................................................... 18 Sixth form career opportunities ................................................................................ 19 My Future app and website ...................................................................................... 19 Speakers for Schools - Youth Card for students ......................................................... 19 Intensive spring workshop in Al & tech skills for 15-19 year olds ................................ 20 Online finance and accommodation talks – universities .............................................. 20
Student information ................................................................................... 21
School to home communication................................................................................ 21 School Website / VLE............................................................................................... 21 Show My Homework online homework submission guidance ...................................... 21 Always be doing tasks ............................................................................................. 21 Free Microsoft Office for Students ............................................................................ 21
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 25:
1 April 2022
Newsletter Support and resources available ................................................................. 22
Autism telephone support helpline ............................................................................ 22 Ambitious about Autism online platform launch ......................................................... 22 Virtual coffee morning – online safety....................................................................... 23 Online Safety with PC Dufton ................................................................................... 23 Free School Meal Criteria ......................................................................................... 24 Mental Health support ............................................................................................. 25
Highfields School uniform........................................................................... 27 Communication with school – contact details ............................................... 28
Key Staff for 2021-22 .............................................................................................. 29
Highfields School Governing Board 2021-22 ................................................ 30
Governing board vacancies ...................................................................................... 30
Key dates .................................................................................................. 31
2022-23 term dates and INSET days ........................................................................ 32
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 25:
1 April 2022
Newsletter Message from the headteacher We had our first face to face meeting of teachers for some time on Tuesday evening. We were evaluating our training strategy this year and looking at what we need to focus on next academic year. In doing so we looked at the three surveys we conducted recently for staff, students and families. One consensus that emerged is that we need to continue to develop practice around behaviour and approach to learning. The pandemic continues to wreak havoc in schools. Our students at risk of underachievement (we call them SARU for short) need a steady, settled relationship with their teachers in order to develop healthy learning habits. Covid absences have seen these relationships be subject to almost constant disruption. So we need to respond with ever more effective systems around behaviour, support, challenge, nurture, pastoral care etc. We are reading widely. We are already avid students of Doug Lemov’s work but recently we are evaluating the evidence around Tom Bennett’s ideas which appear to be popular currently. We are also currently evaluating all aspects of our approach to exclusion. Exclusion is a taboo in schools (I certainly don’t like talking about it). But the truth is that sometimes you need to exclude to include. As an example, if a student is harmed by another students’ behaviour then the harmed student may only feel comfortable coming into school (being included) if the aggressor is out of school for a period of time (excluded). On the other hand, exclusion very rarely helps the excluded child so we go out of our way to try and avoid it through graduated warnings, making our expectations clear and providing restorative solutions so that students learn about the impact their unkind or inconsiderate behaviour has on others. Pictured above is our on-call room (sometimes called inclusion room) where students are removed from doing further harm with unkind or inconsiderate behaviour which has persisted through at least two warnings. Our hope is that this provides an opportunity for reflection which avoids the need for an exclusion (we also welcome some students in who just need some peace and quiet on when they are having a bad day). I report to governors in each meeting about levels of exclusion as we try to minimise them. But I always remind governors that, as long as I am in charge, exclusions will be as high as they reasonably need to be to protect children from unkind, inconsiderate behaviour which can harm or disrupt learning. So….plenty of reading and planning to be done to ensure that, as we move forward, Highfields students come into schooling feeling safe, happy and included. The better our practice, the less we will need to rely on consequences over time. In lessons this week…I came across a year 8 student whose behaviour had landed them in on-call. As usual he had reflected on his behaviour and was working peacefully on an English project: a good lad making some poor choices. After a period of time he re-joined lessons and GOT AN R2 IN THE FINAL LESSON OF THE DAY!!!! I know I shouldn’t get so excited about these things but there is nothing better than when a student falls in the race and then gets up and crosses the line in style. Have a good weekend! A Marsh Headteacher
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 25:
1 April 2022
Newsletter Parent/carer update Stakeholder survey outcomes Thank you very much to the 173 parents and carers who completed our recent survey. These were supplemented by a pleasing response from students and colleagues to their respective surveys. These surveys play a valuable role in giving us feedback on how we are doing as a school, and where our priorities for improvement should lie. This is particularly important for us at this time of the year as we start to think in earnest about improvement planning for next year and beyond. Here are some quick headlines: Parents and carers continue to be overwhelmingly appreciative of the everything school does, from pastoral support, to quality teaching, our positive approach to rewards and consequences, the importance we place on knowing your children as individuals and our commitment to communication. Over 80% of parents and carers agreed that their child receives a good quality of education and that the teaching they receive is good. Similarly high percentages reported that their child is kept safe and said they would recommend Highfields to others. All surveys provide us with a range of priorities for improvement, which we'll use to shape our emerging plans. Two years on from the first lockdown the pandemic continues to pose significant challenges for us in school. Across the country schools have reported increased challenges in terms of student behaviour, mental health and absence of both students and staff. To some extent we are responding to the same issues. The surveys tell us that they are important priorities for you and our on-going improvement plans will reflect them.
Reminder: HPV (Human Papilloma Vaccine) The HPV Human Papilloma Vaccine is now offered to all boys and girls in years 8 and 9 and the NHS immunisation team will be in school on 26 April to administer this vaccination. Students receive their first HPV vaccination in year 8 and their second HPV vaccination in year 9. The same consent form will be used for both doses of the HPV vaccination.
Year 8 vaccination consent – action required
Year 9, 10 and 11 second dose
For the year 8 vaccinations the immunisation team require consent from parents/carers. Please visit https://www.derbyshireandcityimms.co.uk/Forms/HPV to complete the consent form using the unique school code DD112950. The option to consent or decline the vaccination is at the end of the questionnaire so please complete this even if you do not want your child to have the vaccination. Year 9 students will receive their second dose on 26 April, along with any year 10 and 11 students who missed a second dose. The NHS immunisation team already have consents for students in year 9, 10 and 11 from having their first does in year 8 and so parents/carers are not required to complete a further consent for their second dose.
For more information about the vaccination can be found below: https://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 or via email: DCHST.immunisationteam@nhs.net
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 25:
1 April 2022
Newsletter Curriculum spotlight Music and music technology Mr Rowley, Head of Music
Music is commonly cited as “the universal language of mankind” but what exactly does this mean and to what extent does Highfields embrace this philosophy? Humans made music even before we could speak! It can be found in every corner of the globe. Whether you’re listening to a top 40 hit, Balinese Gamelan, Beethoven’s 5th or ‘on hold’ music you are consciously or unconsciously tapping into music’s meaning. You are, as such, a musician whether you like it or not! Distilled down, music is listening, composing and performing. If you’ve ever sung in the shower you’re a musician! Altered the words to a familiar song to ridicule the referee at a football match? you’re a musician! Played ‘Chopsticks’ when you happen upon a piano at a train station? - you’re a musician! Part of music at school is breaking down the barriers of learning the subject. Many people assume you must be able to read music to be a musician, that you must possess a God given talent or arrive in year 7 already able to play an instrument. None of these are true. Our curriculum is about building a heuristic knowledge of music and exposing students to a variety of musical scenarios where they (hopefully) realise the universal language that runs through them all. At key stage 3 students explore music in topics as diverse as Baroque and EDM. At the end of year 9 students opt whether to pursue music at GCSE. We follow the AQA syllabus which builds on their skills. A level music is as rigorous as any STEM subject where students prepare a 15 minute recital on their chosen instrument/voice, submit a portfolio of original music and appraise set works as well as unfamiliar music. It has long been accepted that students who engage in musical study have greater powers of concentration, phonemic awareness, enhanced literacy, numeracy and memory and have achieve enhanced academic status. Musicians are excellent communicators, have empathy for others and enjoy the benefits of deferred gratification. We operate on the understanding that every student we teach is a musician. As the poet Reginald Holmes said “The earth has music for those who will listen”. We hope to inspire our students to really listen. If you have any questions, would like information on instrumental or vocal lessons, please email music@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 25:
1 April 2022
Newsletter School news Y13 geologists at National Stone Centre Mr Fairhurst Head of Geology
Our year 13 geologists enjoyed the sunshine on their final field course recently when they visited Castleton to investigate the ancient reef system and The National Stone Centre to collect data for statistical analysis. A big shout out to an eagle-eyed James who spotted a couple of fossils called goniatites at Winnat's Pass. We have never seen these before in that location despite visiting for the last 20 years!
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 25:
1 April 2022
Newsletter Biology competition news Miss Stafford Head of Biology
Year 12 biologists ran the annual MiSAC (Microbiology in Schools and Advisory Committee) competition for year 10 students this week. Molly, Hannah, Naomi, Teagan and Maisie (all year 12) organised the competition to produce an information poster about the use of microbes in food production by introducing it in assembly. They supported year 10 lessons where students were researching and completing their entries and judging the top ten to be sent off to enter the national competition. The year 12's were very professional and enthusiastic to get involved in running every aspect of the competition. The year 10 entries (in rank order) are: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.
Leona and Olivia Charlie and Thomas Lucy and Angelica Keira Kyra and Freya Livinia Willem, Benjamin and Abigale Harriet, Ella and Sophie Max, Ted and Callum Joel, William and Jacob
In biology, our A level students entered the UKBC Biology Olympiad and we had several award winners - congratulations to:
Molly and Jessica who achieved the Bronze Award Naomi and Alice who were Highly Commended Jack and Jeska who were Commended
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 25:
1 April 2022
Newsletter
Highfields Bake Off - Lumsdale Calling all bakers! Lumsdale has made it to the third and final round. The final round will be pastry. It is entirely up to you whether you make a sweet or savoury offering. It is also up to you which pastry you choose.
You will be making your creations at home then bringing them into school to be sampled and judged! As always, you can bake on your own, in a pair or as a team of 3.
Don’t worry if you haven’t entered previous rounds, you are more than welcome to join us. Please bring your creations to the cooking room on Wednesday 6 April. Any questions, please speak to Miss Wallhead.
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 25:
1 April 2022
Newsletter School sport and sports leaders news Health champions On Tuesday our year 9 health champions were involved in setting up activities for their peers in their afternoon PE lesson.
The year 9 groups were involved in sessions of FLAGS with Mrs Wildgoose and there were also sessions of Zumba led by Kim Robinson of Robinsons Dance School, badminton led by Mr Shirtcliffe, self-defence led by Paul White of Snap Dragons Club and football for boys and girls on the all-weather pitch with Mr Searson.
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 25:
1 April 2022
Newsletter In attendance at the event was athlete mentor and member of the National Football Museum Hall of Fame, Alistair Patrick-Helston. The year 9 health champions worked hard and were fantastic in inspiring their peers. As a continuation to this event our year 9s have the opportunity to join follow-up activities on Wednesday lunchtimes. Well done to year 9 health champions Martha, Jensen, Brooke, Keeley, Chloe and Tayler.
Boys ‘Road to Wimbledon’ The ‘Road to Wimbledon’ tennis competition came to a conclusion at the end of the week for year 7 and 8 boys. The results are: 1st 2nd 3rd 4th
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Ethan B Matthew R Deon T Rohan C
The winners and runners up now go onto the Derbyshire round with the girls. Thanks goes to Mr Molyneux for the expertise he brings to this annual tournament.
Girls FA Change Maker Erin from year 10 was presented with her certificate as the Girls FA Change Maker for the Rural Derbyshire SSP. She will be involved with other girls across Derbyshire making a difference in schools and their communities changing football for girls. Well done Erin!
SSP High 5 Netball Unfortunately, the SSP High 5 netball finals were postponed on Wednesday due to the weather – this has now been rescheduled for Wednesday 27 April.
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 25:
1 April 2022
Newsletter Girls Time Project On Thursday our year 10 FA girls came together to lead on a girls Time Project programme supported by Sports Leaders UK. This programme is to encourage more girls to take part in competitive sport.
The girls have been completing six modules to gain the award and they will be leading a competition for girls in the summer term.
Commonwealth Games activities Today, SSP assistant, Max Marshall, was in school to speak to our year 12 and 13 students about the exciting opportunity available to senior sports leaders leading activities for the Commonwealth Games activities for primary schools – more information will be included in next week’s newsletter.
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 25:
1 April 2022
Newsletter School Meals Monday 4 April – Friday 8 April 2022: Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday National Burrito Day
Week 2 Menu
Mains
Organic Beef Burger in a Bun, Vegetarian Burger in a Bun
Sides
Baked Potato Wedges, Apple Slaw
Veg & Salads
Sweetcorn & Green Bean Medley
Desserts
Syrup Sponge, Rosalie Biscuit, Chocolate Crunch
Mains
Cheese & Herb Crusted Cottage Pie, 5 Bean Chilli
Sides
Savoury Rice, Homemade Bread Selection
Veg & Salads
Broccoli, Peas
Desserts
Banana Loaf, Strawberry Crumble Slice, Oat Cookie
Mains
Roast Turkey with Stuffing & Gravy, Chunky Minestrone Casserole
Sides
Colcannon Mash, Boulangère Potatoes
Veg & Salads
Roasted Winter Vegetables
Desserts
Apple & Cinnamon Crumble, Shortbread Biscuit, Flapjack
Mains
Chicken Korma, Sweet Potato and Spinach Curry
Sides
Rice, Naan Bread
Veg & Salads
Lightly Spiced Sweetcorn & Broccoli
Desserts
Lemon Drizzle Sponge, Melting Moments, Chocolate Cracknel
Friday
Mains
Battered Fish, Roasted Vegetable Thin Crust Pizza
Sides
Chips, Baked Beans
Veg & Salads
Peas
Desserts
Fruit Upside Down Cake, Cherry & Coconut Biscuit, Paris Sandwich
In addition to the options above, the following are available on a daily basis: Hot Snacks:
Jacket Potato, Pasta Bake, Pasta & Sauce
Deli range:
Mixed Paninis, Variety Sandwiches, Flavoured Deli Cob
Derbyshire Catering Service ‘lunchtime takeovers’ 2022: 19 May - Love Your Veg, 14 June - Food for Body & Mind, 12 July - Summer BBQ, 20 October - Mexican Fiesta, 4 November - Winter Warmer, 6-7 December - Christmas Market and December (date tbc) – Christmas Dinner.
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 25:
1 April 2022
Newsletter Derbyshire Catering takeover day: 7 April - National Burrito Day
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 25:
1 April 2022
Newsletter Student bulletin Week commencing Monday 4 April: Week B Monday Y8 assembly (Starkholmes) Y10 & Y12 drama devising exam
Tuesday Sixth Form assembly (Lumsdale) Y10 & Y12 drama devising exam Y11 dance practical (full day)
Wednesday Y7 assembly (Starkholmes) Y9 assembly (Lumsdale) Y10 & Y12 drama devising exam Y10 geography fieldwork (Sheffield)
Thursday Y11 assembly (Lumsdale)
Friday Y10 assembly (Lumsdale) Break up for the Easter holiday – return to school on Monday 25 April
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 25:
1 April 2022
Newsletter Extra-curricular clubs and activities Starkholmes
Monday
Tuesday Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Lunch
After school
Astronomy club (Week A) Y7/8 Y7 Clay modelling club Room 1 GM Y7/8 Science homework support 12.50-1.15 pm Lab 1 Samba Band Junior Choir 1pm -1.40pm Years 7/8 Music Room EM and RK Warhammer (Week 1) Room 8 LT Y8 Netball Court AJW Y8/Y7 Sports Leaders Gym DM Y7 Boys football Field JS Y7 Creative writing and book club EF 1A Girls football Gym/Field LP Table Tennis GYM DM Dance Club 1-1:30pm Year 7 /8 AH Parts Mob Y8 Tech club T1 IR Y8 Film club room 1A Drama Club 1-1:30pm Year 7/8 RHE PArts Mob Y7 Book Club Week A Y8 Book Club. Week B 1.15pm, Lower School Library Samba club Y7/8 Music Computing Club Room 7 Warhammer (Week B) LT
Y8 Football Field/Astro JW Y7/8 Art club 3.45-4.45pm Room 12 Warhammer club – all years HWE/AEB (at Lumsdale)
Be the best you can
GCSE Dance intervention PArts Mob Dungeons and Dragons (Week A) Y8 Room 1
Rugby Girls/Boys y7/8 Field JW/JS
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Highfields School
Issue 25:
1 April 2022
Newsletter Lumsdale
Monday
Lunch
After school
Astronomy club (Week B) Y9 RR English Revision (Week A) Y11 MWE Social Netball AJW Y9/10/11 (Sports hall) Earth Science clubs S7/S4 All years Science homework support club 12.50 – 1.15pm S9 All years
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Sixth Form Football (Week B) DM Astro iMedia coursework catch up (Week A) IT1 Quiz L6 Board/card games KS4 HK Badminton Y9/10/11 and 6th form, Sports hall CS/JA Football Y10/sixth form RS Book club/creative writing (week B) H3 Countdown Club (week A) H3 Sewing and crafts C7 GCSE Geography support; 1-1:30; KS4; MJB; H2 Debate group KS4 PS GCSE D&T Y11 1pm C8 AM Music club (open to beginners, led by sixth formers) MU1 Sport for all girls Y9 Netball RS Computer Science GCSE revision/homework help JH Science homework support club 12.50 – 1.15pm S9 All years Sports leaders sports hall Y9/10/11 JA LP Gardening club outside/H3 CNAT iMedia (this half term only) IT1 Debating club Y9/10/11 Drama
Be the best you can
Duke of Edinburgh AJW Y12/13 Rugby Boys/Girls MAB Y11 Football (Astro) GR Rugby Girls/Boys Y9/10/11 CS/LP Sixth Form Netball sixth form EC/RS Warhammer club – all years HWE/AEB Female Senior Choir - 3.45pm - 4.45pm yr9-13 and staff - MU1 - EM and KMR Whole school musical rehearsals WH/P1/Mu1 Netball – Y9/10/11 (sports hall) (Weeks where no meetings) Sixth form Football (Week B) DM
Primary Evening sports hall Y9 Boys Football Astro JW Y10 Football CS Dance Club Year 9-13 Sixth Form Wheeldon Hall Whole school musical rehearsals WH/P1/Mu1
Netball – Y9/10/11 Weeks where no meetings. Girls Football LP/JS/CS All Years (Astro) Maths club – sixth form RKB/DM Whole school musical rehearsals WH/P1/Mu1
Sixth Form Sports MF/RS
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Highfields School
Issue 25:
1 April 2022
Newsletter 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 We have signed up to the careers programme ‘Unifrog’ which offers students careers advice, support and guidance. Students in years 10 and 11 have been emailed with the log on details for Unifrog. If students have not received an email, they can access the website through the link www.unifrog.org/sign-in and click on ‘forgotten password’ to reset the password and log in.
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 (www.startprofile.com) with the student code they have been issued with.
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 25:
1 April 2022
Newsletter 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 announced a free mobile app that provides a one-stop shop for 11-25-yearolds for self-led 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
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 25:
1 April 2022
Newsletter Intensive spring workshop in Al & tech skills for 15-19 year olds For students who are considering careers in tech, science or finance
Skills Gap are running a series of exclusive workshops led by industry experts to help students advance their career. The section below gives information on the upcoming workshops and how to find out more and book a place. The small-group online workshops are 3.5 hours long and cover everything from the basics of AI or nanotechnology, to the unique job opportunities in each sector. Students will also get a chance to try a hands-on practical exercise and put questions to a panel of industry experts. Skills Gap is a career accelerator that runs insightful workshops for young people aged 15-19 – because it’s never too soon to think about building your skills for a competitive edge in your future studies and career. They offer a range of intensive workshops this spring, all designed specifically for 15-19 year olds and delivered to small groups by experienced industry experts: AI in Aerospace Engineering
https://www.skillsgap.tech/workshops/ai-in-aerospace-engineering Saturday, 9 Apr 2022 AI is pushing the boundaries of engineering – and not just with the reality of autonomous flight. From simulated flight training to lightweight components and predictive maintenance, engineers are still discovering its full potential. Our workshop is taught by Laurence Cook, an expert in the field of computational design in aerospace. He’ll introduce you to the latest developments in AI and aerospace engineering and give you practical real-world experience developing an AI algorithm to design an aircraft wing. If you’re looking for a competitive edge for your studies or career, these workshops are the perfect opportunity to arm yourself with valuable skills and knowledge. For further information and to register for any of the events, please visit www.skillsgap.tech
Online finance and accommodation talks – universities Upcoming online talks for student finance and student accommodation. The finance talks are generic and applicable to all Universities, the accommodation talks are Huddersfield specific, however may provide inspiration for whether students want to stay at home or move away and find out more about student life. The remaining dates are 6 April and 18 May. Finance talk is 5.30-6.30pm and accommodation talk is 6.30-7.30pm. Links below: https://events.unibuddy.co/university-of-huddersfield/student-finance-6-april and https://events.unibuddy.co/university-of-huddersfield/digs-student-accommodation-6-april-2022 https://events.unibuddy.co/university-of-huddersfield/student-finance-18-may and https://events.unibuddy.co/university-of-huddersfield/digs-student-accommodation-18-may-2022 For further information about applicant visit days at the University of Huddersfield, please see the information on the webpage https://www.hud.ac.uk/undergraduate/how-to-apply/after-youapply/applicants/
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 25:
1 April 2022
Newsletter Student information School to home communication Students should be regularly checking their school email account as well as Show My Homework daily (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 user name 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
Always be doing tasks KS3 and KS4 ‘always be doing’ lists for the spring term for students to work on – please follow the link below to access via the school website. Y7-9 KS3: https://www.highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Jan-2021-KS3-Y7-9-AlwaysBe-Doing.pdf Y10-11 KS4: https://www.highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Jan-2021-KS4-Y1011Always-Be-Doing.pdf
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/
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 25:
1 April 2022
Newsletter Support and resources available Autism telephone support helpline A national support telephone helpline has been set up for parents/carers of children with autism. Daisy Chain offer a telephone service to enable families to access advice, support and resources. The service is open to young people, adults and families of those affected by neurodevelopmental disorders. The aim is to provide support and services for those who display traits associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), sensory processing differences, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The service is for those pre, during and post diagnosis. The team are supporting families with the following: responding to enquiries from parents/carers, young people and adults and carrying out telephone appointments sourcing, sharing and sending resource packs to support parents with loneliness and isolation creating and sending bespoke resources and visuals To contact the care team, please call 0800 031 5445. Full details are available through the following link: https://www.daisychainproject.co.uk/national-telephone-support-service
Ambitious about Autism online platform launch Ambitious about Autism has launched the UK’s first online platform for autistic young people – please find further details at https://ambitious-youth-network.ambitiousaboutautism.org.uk/page/ambitious-youth-network This will offer autistic young people aged 16 to 25 a safe and moderated online space to help them understand their autistic identity and reduce isolation and loneliness that many feel. Young people will be able to take part in peer support sessions, share experiences and find volunteering, work experience and employment opportunities. There will also be opportunities for them to work together and campaign for change.
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 25:
1 April 2022
Newsletter Virtual coffee morning – online safety
Online Safety with PC
Dufton
Family Support Team Highfields and Cluster Primary Schools And PC Sarah Dufton
Virtual Coffee Morning to discuss Online Safety PC Dufton is giving us some tips on how to support children with online safety Join us on: Zoom When: Thursday 7th April Time: 10 – 11 am
We will be looking at: Helpful APPs Checking and monitoring devices Tips and Tricks to talk about online safety with children
to discuss supporting children with online safety. If you would like to book a place on this session then please email familysupport@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk and a link to the session will then be sent to you If you would like to attend a similar coffee morning, but are unable to attend due to the time, please email familysupport@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk with times that would be more suitable. If there is demand, we are able to negotiate another session with a different time.
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 25:
1 April 2022
Newsletter Free School Meal Criteria Families could qualify for free school meals if meeting the following criteria: Universal Credit, provided there is an annual net earned income not exceeding £7,400 (£616.67 per month) Income Support Income-based Jobseekers Allowance Income-related Employment and Support Allowance support under Part 6 of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 the guarantee element of State Pension Credit Child Tax Credit (provided you’re not also entitled to Working Tax Credit and have an annual gross income of no more than £16,190) as assessed by HMRC Working Tax Credit run-on (paid for 4 weeks after you stop qualifying for Working Tax Credit) Universal Credit has begun to be rolled out in Derbyshire and will affect all areas of Derbyshire by the end of 2022 - full details are available on Derbyshire County Council’s website https://www.derbyshire.gov.uk/social-health/adult-care-and-wellbeing/benefits-debt-and-legalmatters/welfare-benefits/universal-credit/universal-credit.aspx Young people aged 16 to 18 who receive the benefits or tax credits in their own right are also entitled to receive free school meals. Even if you meet any or all of the criteria, families will not be eligible if they are claiming Working Tax Credit. You can sign up for free school meals at any time of year. You or your partner can claim for your children, as long as you live at the same address. You do not have to fill in a separate form for each child, even if they go to different schools. For further information contact the free school meals team on 01629 536400 or 01629 536481.
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 25:
1 April 2022
Newsletter
Mental Health support
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 25:
1 April 2022
Newsletter
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 25:
1 April 2022
Newsletter 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 for the 2021-22 academic year is designed to be clear and can be accessed on the following link: https://www.highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk/our-school/uniform/ The 2022-23 uniform code will be updated shortly. 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/highfields-uniform.html) 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). From September 2022 all students are invited to wear non-branded trousers, but girls have the option of a straight, branded skirt (with logo on the waistband) if they wish. These changes are fully in line with recent Department for Education guidance on uniform as we are minimising branding, offering alternatives and working with more than one uniform provider. Please contact finance@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk if you are entitled to financial support with uniform. Various information has been prepared on our school uniform and can be accessed on the links below or from the school website: FAQs: https://www.highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/UniformFAQs.pdf Uniform supply list: https://www.highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/UniformList.pdf 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
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 25:
1 April 2022
Newsletter 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 please email: Mrs Green – Year Manager (year 7)
tgreen@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Miss Esposito – Year Manager (year 8)
aesposito@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Upper school site (Lumsdale) - to contact year managers for years 9-13 please email: Mr Tidmarsh - Year Manager (year 9)
dtidmarsh@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Mrs Weightman Edge - Year Manager (year 10)
hweightman-edge@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Mr Allsobrook -Year Manager (year 11)
callsobrook@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Mrs Sargeant - Year Manager (sixth form)
rsargeant@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
General email contacts Website: General email: Admissions: Chair of Governors: SENCO: Newsletter feedback: Careers information:
www.highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk info@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk admissions@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk chair@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk mhodkin@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk newsletter@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk 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.
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 25:
1 April 2022
Newsletter Key Staff for 2021-22 Headteacher: Mr A Marsh
Deputy Headteacher: Mr P R Cole
Assistant Headteachers: Mr D O’Reilly Mrs C Rifkin Mr M Hodkin
Directors of Catch-up
Mrs C Morgan (Curriculum) Miss S Wallhead (Engagement)
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
Miss J Hughes Mrs A Hollinrake / Mrs L Redhead Mr K Rodgers Mr A Bishton Mrs A Ruston Mr M Flett Mrs Green Miss Esposito Mr Tidmarsh Mrs Weightman Edge Mr Allsobrook 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 – Mrs J Hadfield D&T – Miss A Morris Drama & Dance – Miss L Colgan (Miss E Bonsall – maternity leave) English – Mrs H Key Film Studies – Mr C Warrington Geography – Mrs M Barker History – Mr P Copeland
Be the best you can
Maths – Mrs R Brown/Mrs C Henderson Modern Foreign Languages – Mrs M Bowen Music – Mr K Rowley PE – Mr C Shirtcliffe Psychology – Miss H Ould PRS – Mrs S Blakesley SENCO – Mr M Hodkin Science – Mr R Atkins Sociology – Mrs A Llewellyn
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Highfields School
Issue 25:
1 April 2022
Newsletter Highfields School Governing Board 2021-22 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 Miss Angeline Ellson
Mr Rob Atkinson Mrs Allison Beesley Miss Joanne Coe Mrs Amanda Goodall Mrs Jade Hadfield Miss Emma Hill Mr Dennis Holmes
Governor Type Chair of Governors Community Vice Chair of Governors Community Community Community Parent Community Staff Community Parent
Mr Andrew Marsh Ms Deborah O’Donovan Mrs Selina Rodgers Dr Ewen Ross Mr Duncan Whittam
Headteacher Community Parent Parent Community
Mr Paul Steeples
Link Governor Area Leadership and strategy Inclusion (SEND, behaviour, attendance) Finance, resources and personnel Eco School committee link Safeguarding (H&S, wellbeing) Curriculum and standards -
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/
Governing board vacancies We have two community governor vacancies to sit on the local governing board of Highfields School. If you are interested or would like to learn more, please contact Angeline Ellson (Chair of Governors) chair@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk or Jacqui Wheatcroft (Clerk to Governors) at jwheatcroft@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 25:
1 April 2022
Newsletter Key dates 2021-22 academic year Term Term Term Term Term Term
1: 2: 3: 4: 5: 6:
INSET days (no students in school)
1 September 2021* to 22 October 2021 Monday 27 September 2021 1 November 2021 to 22 December 2021* Friday 3 December 2021 10 January 2022 to 18 February 2022 Wednesday 22 December 2021 28 February 2022 to 8 April 2022 Monday 4 July 2022 25 April 2022 to 27 May 2022 Friday 22 July 2022 * dates that differ from DCC’s published term dates. 6 June 2022 to 22 July 2022 Queen’s Platinum Jubilee additional holiday – Thursday 21 July 2022
Legislation came into force on 1 June 2021 to reduce the number of school days by one day (for this academic year only) to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. Thursday 21 July 2022 is in lieu of the additional bank holiday for the Platinum Jubilee falling during the June school holiday week.
2021-22 provisional virtual parent consultation evenings Y13 parents evening (4-7pm) Y12 parents evening (4-7pm) Y9 parents evening (4-7pm) Y11 parents evening (4-7pm) Y8 parents evening (4-7pm) Y10 parents evening (4-7pm) Y7 parents evening (4-7pm)
Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday
16 November 2021 – at school (not virtual) 30 November 2021 – at school (not virtual) 18 January 2022 1 February 2022 18 February 2022 8 March 2022 22 March 2022
2021-22 provisional school events (tbc - further details will be issued prior to each event) Success in the Sixth Form evening Y6 open evening 12-15yr old immunisations – COVID-19 Y7 & 8 Halloween Disco Autumn series GCSE exams opens Sixth form open evening 12-15yr old Flu vaccinations Y11 mock exams (1) A Level Certificates Christmas Concert Y9 virtual options evening Y9 virtual options evening (repeat event) Evening of Theatre (7-10pm) Y9 Teenage Booster & Meningitis ACWY Vaccinations Y7 Valentine Movie Night 12-15yr old immunisations – 2nd dose COVID-19 Y10 Health day Y11 mock exams (2) /Y13 mock exams Easter Concert (7-10pm) Y10 internal exams Y8/Y9 immunisations - HPV GCSEs / A level exam series Sports Leaders Awards Evening Y8 end of year internal exams Y12 internal exams Y9 internal exams (none core subjects) Y7 end of year internal exams Y9 internal exams (core subjects) Y10 work experience week Whole school sports day (tbc) Y6 visit Starkholmes Y7 sponsored walk, Y8 visit Lumsdale, Y9 enterprise day Y6 parents' evening School Musical (7.30-10pm and Saturday matinee)
14 September 2021 7pm (Wheeldon Hall, Lumsdale) 22 September 2021 (times as per website) 19 October 2021 21 October 2021 (7-9pm, Bowler Hall, Starkholmes) 1 November 2021 11 November 2021 7pm (Wheeldon Hall, Lumsdale) 17 & 18 November 2021 (both sites) 22 November – 2 December 2021 (Sports Hall, Lumsdale) 21 December 2021 (Wheeldon Hall, Lumsdale) postponed 21 December virtual event – details to follow 13 January 2022 (6.30pm - virtually) 17 January 2022 (6.00pm - virtually) 26 & 27 January 2022 (Bowler Hall, Starkholmes) 8 February 2022 14 February 2022 4-6pm (Bowler Hall, Starkholmes) 15 February 2022 (both sites) 3 March 2022 (during school day) 7-18 March 2022 (Sports Hall) Date to be confirmed (Wheeldon Hall, Lumsdale) 3-13 May 2022 (Sports Hall) 26 April 2022 (Starkholmes/Lumsdale during school day) 16 May – 29 June 2022 (Sports Hall) (provisional dates) 26 May 2022 6-8pm (Wheeldon Hall) 6-10 June 2022 (in lessons) 6-17 June 2022 (classrooms) tbc June (in lessons) tbc 13-17 June 2022 (in lessons) 27-28 June 2022 (in lessons) 4-8 July 2022 28 June 2022 6 July 2022 6 July 2022 7 July 2022 6pm (Bowler Hall, Starkholmes) 13 July-16 July 2022 (Wheeldon Hall, Lumsdale)
2022 exam results days: A Level exam results: Thursday 18 August 2022
Be the best you can
GCSE exam results: Thursday 25 August 2022
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Highfields School
Issue 25:
1 April 2022
Newsletter 2022-23 term dates and INSET days 2022-23 academic year Friday 2 September 2022 – Staggered start only Y7, Y9 and Y12 in school Monday 5 September 2022 – all students in school
Term dates
INSET days (no students in school)
Term Term Term Term Term Term
Thursday 1 September 2022 Friday 21 October 2022 Monday 5 December 2022 Thursday 22 December Friday 30 June 2023
1: 2: 3: 4: 5: 6:
1 September 2022 to 21 October 2022 31 October 2022 to 22 December 2022 9 January 2023 to 17 February 2023 27 February 2023 to 31 March 2023 17 April 2023 to 26 May 2023 5 June 2023 to 21 July 2023
Be the best you can
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