Highfields School
Issue 28:
6 May 2022
Highfields School Newsletter Newsletter
2021-22
Issue 28: 6 May 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 28:
6 May 2022
Newsletter
Contents: Message from the headteacher ....................................................................4 School news ................................................................................................ 5
University of Sheffield’s Philosophy winner! ................................................................. 5 Move & Groove Project .............................................................................................. 5
School sport and sports leaders news ...........................................................7
Time Girls Project ...................................................................................................... 7 Derbyshire FA Girls Ambassador ................................................................................. 8 Derbyshire Golf ......................................................................................................... 8 Voice of Sport ........................................................................................................... 9 Sports leaders update ................................................................................................ 9 Annual Sports Leaders Awards Evening ...................................................................... 9
Highfields Bake Off! – Y7/8 Pastry Week ..................................................... 10 Parents/carers of current year 6 students ................................................... 12
Welcome to Highfields School! ................................................................................. 12 September 2022 – Transport to school ..................................................................... 12
School Meals ............................................................................................. 13 Student bulletin ......................................................................................... 14
Extra-curricular clubs and activities........................................................................... 15
Careers, College & Apprenticeship News ..................................................... 17
Resources ............................................................................................................... 17 Careers inspiration and advice from BBC Bitesize....................................................... 17 Unifrog Careers programme ..................................................................................... 17 Online careers programme for 11-18 year olds .......................................................... 17 Sixth form career opportunities ................................................................................ 18 My Future app and website ...................................................................................... 18 Speakers for Schools - Youth Card for students ......................................................... 18
Student information ................................................................................... 19
School to home communication................................................................................ 19 School Website / VLE............................................................................................... 19 Show My Homework online homework submission guidance ...................................... 19 Always be doing tasks ............................................................................................. 19 Free Microsoft Office for Students ............................................................................ 19
Support and resources available ................................................................. 20
Autism telephone support helpline ............................................................................ 20 Ambitious about Autism online platform launch ......................................................... 20 Free School Meal Criteria ......................................................................................... 21 Mental Health support ............................................................................................. 22
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Highfields School
Issue 28:
6 May 2022
Newsletter Highfields School uniform........................................................................... 24 Covid-19 update ........................................................................................ 25 Communication with school – contact details ............................................... 26
Key Staff for 2021-22 .............................................................................................. 27 Highfields School Governing Board 2021-22 .............................................................. 28 Governing board vacancies ...................................................................................... 28
Key dates .................................................................................................. 29
2022-23 term dates and INSET days ........................................................................ 30
Disclaimer: Highfields School is not responsible for the quality of products or organisations publicised through articles or advertisements in the school newsletter.
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Highfields School
Issue 28:
6 May 2022
Newsletter Message from the headteacher Highfields Eco-committee is a student led group which focuses on activism around climate change and the environment. This week their initiative to improve our recycling arrangements was piloted in Y7 and Y8. Images below show students (and staff) working to ensure that recycling is clearly separated from food waste and that all litter is correctly recycled.
I receive a lot of parental feedback which, more often than not, is constructive and useful. This occurred recently when a parent whose family had experienced a traumatic event felt that the school’s response disappointed her. We corresponded via email and then I invited the parent in with a friend to support them and we talked the matter over. I then consulted others and drew up some guidance to try and ensure that we responded well should a similar event occur in the future either to the same family or another. I was really grateful to the parent for being calm and constructive and the parent appeared grateful to us for listening and for avoiding defensiveness. On the other hand, we also receive an amount of feedback when we get things right and below is an example of praise for a head of year:
“As we near the final few months of our last child at Highfields, my husband and l would like to extend our sincere gratitude to you and your team for all your hard work to keep our children safe and happy. Our daughter was speaking so highly of you tonight, especially, so thank you so much. You are a very caring and valued member of staff and you obviously look out for students. Many, many thanks.” Thanks to any family who works with us to improve things when we don’t quite get it right and also those who give us some encouragement when we do. In lessons this week I really enjoyed a DT lesson which was notable by the amount the teacher circulated to ensure that students were completing the work he required them to complete to exactly the standard he required them to complete it to. Finally, we are really looking forward to hosting Any Questions? this evening (Friday 6 May 8pm Radio 4) in our Wheeldon Hall. Mr Cole deserves the credit for organising this event and I am so looking forward to it. I will most definitely be putting forward a question in the hope that it is selected… I wonder if you can guess what I will be asking about: answers in next week’s thrilling instalment of my newsletter bit. Have a marvellous weekend! We are Highfields. A Marsh, Headteacher
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Highfields School
Issue 28:
6 May 2022
Newsletter School news University of Sheffield’s Philosophy winner! Mrs Blakesley
The PRS department would like to congratulate Amy (Y12) on winning the University of Sheffield's Philosophy essay competition. Amy wrote her 1500 word essay about utilitarianism, a topic we are studying in lesson. She came in the top 10 of 186 entries. Her paper titled, 'Is utilitarianism the correct approach to ethics?', received outstanding feedback relating to her knowledge and understanding of the topic as well as the structure of her essay. The judges awarded Amy a First at degree standard, something she should be incredibly proud of. Amy won a £25 Amazon voucher and the chance to be part of a workshop with the Philosophy department. Huge well done, Amy!
Move & Groove Project
A pioneering new project combining music and sport to support the health and wellbeing for both the young and older generations launched to coincide with Global Intergenerational Week (25 April 2022). Move & Groove has been developed by Intergenerational Music Making (IMM) and Youth Sport Trust (YST) - dedicated to using music and physical activity to change the lives of generations. The programme will pilot in 10 locations across England to address mental health challenges, loneliness, isolation, and inactivity. Funded by the Sir John Beckwith Charitable Trust, the project was created in response to evidence of the benefits that the combination of music and movement have on children and those suffering from isolation and loneliness and those living with Dementia and Parkinson’s Disease. Move & Groove is designed to increase the confidence and wellbeing of children and older adults and give them a sense of being valued within their local community. The Move & Groove pilot will be fully evaluated by Southbank University using an innovative technique to assess the impact on the wellbeing of both the elderly and the young and improvements in wider behaviours and functional capacity. To definitively measure the impact of music and movement on our wellbeing we will be carrying out ‘spit-and-measure’ tests on all participants to measure levels of Cortisol. Cortisol widely known as the stress hormone - is nature’s built-in alarm system which works with certain parts of the brain to control mood, motivation, and fear. Amongst the supporters of the pilot is Baroness Grey-Thompson, Paralympic Gold Medallist.
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Highfields School
Issue 28:
6 May 2022
Newsletter Schools and care homes across England have been paired together for the pilot. Selection was based on those with limited access to music and sport, limited funding and resources, young people from low socio-economic backgrounds and groups most in need of help in building connections. Staff from each setting attended a regional training day where they learned how to run a 6-week intergenerational project in their area. Schools and care home staff receive capacity funding and resources including play and music equipment. Ongoing support will be provided by YST and IMM staff via phone calls and site visits, as well as peer support through regular online network meetings. Sir John Beckwith said: “I established the Youth Sport Trust in 1994 with an aim to pioneer new ways of using sport to improve children's wellbeing and give them a brighter future. Move & Groove is an innovative project which aims to combine movement with music, to improve the wellbeing of not just the young but older people too. We want to envisage a Britain where everyone can age well; where everyone’s needs, and aspirations are met; and their strengths are recognised respectfully. Where age isn’t an issue but becomes a thing that is celebrated.” Charlotte Miller, Director and Founder of Intergenerational Music Making, said: “We are thrilled to be partnering with The Youth Sport Trust for this ground-breaking intergenerational new pilot. Our mission is to use the magical power of music to connect young people with the older generation to tackle loneliness, isolation and create connected communities. I am delighted to be using our combined expertise in music and physical activity to benefit these two age groups and closely evaluate the mutual benefits to help children and older people to live happier and healthier lives.” Alison Oliver MBE, Chief Executive of the Youth Sport Trust, said: “We are hugely passionate about inspiring changemakers and building belonging through the power of sport and play. We know the transformational impact that being physically active can have on health and wellbeing, which is why we are incredibly excited and honoured to be one of the charities behind Move & Groove. Of the 220,413 young people we worked with last year, 75% of them reported improvements to their overall happiness thanks to the power of sport. We can’t wait to foster relationships between generations and tackle some of the key issues like loneliness impacting society today.” Training has taken place during April and projects will run during May culminating in a celebration event during June. Janice Price has been training ten of Highfields dance leaders from year 9 to work with residents and activity coordinators from Ivonbrook Care Home and Darley Hall Care Home on the move and groove project.
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Highfields School
Issue 28:
6 May 2022
Newsletter School sport and sports leaders news
Time Girls Project Year 10 leaders Erin J, Leonie R, Abi J, Molly W, Chloe P, Maddie H, Dixie D and Ameliah A have been working with their peers to engage more girls in competitive sport. In their PE lessons all week year 10 girls have been involved in competitive rounders. All the girls have been surveyed regarding their thoughts on competition and what barriers there may be for girls to be involved. All of them took part and had fun in the competitions.
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Highfields School
Issue 28:
6 May 2022
Newsletter
Derbyshire FA Girls Ambassador On Wednesday, FA ambassador, Erin J (Y10) attended a meeting for the Derbyshire FA Girls ambassador group. Erin is doing a fantastic job in this new role within Derbyshire looking to inspire Girls in football.
Derbyshire Golf Alice Lowe from Derbyshire Golf came to train our sports leaders on Thursday in the New Golfway programme for primary schools. The leaders worked their way through all the new activities and the new range of equipment ready for the primary school tournament to be held at Highfields on 19 May.
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Highfields School
Issue 28:
6 May 2022
Newsletter
Voice of Sport Today, the Voice of Sport group met to plan activities for the 2022 National School Sport week which happens during week commencing 20-24 June. Details to follow in next week’s newsletter.
Sports leaders update Sports leaders level 1-3 courses are nearing completion for 2022 for year 10-13. Practical exams are taking place on: Friday 13 May – Y11 coaching Lea Primary School during periods 5 / 6. Friday 20 May – Y12/13 coaching St Joseph’s Primary School during periods 3 / 4. Friday 17 June – Y10 coaching St Joseph’s Primary School during periods 3 / 4.
Annual Sports Leaders Awards Evening Our sports leaders, dance leaders and their families have been invited to the 2022 Annual Sports Leaders Awards evening on Thursday 26 May, with our guest of honour Ali Oliver, CEO of Youth Sport Trust. Along with our sports and dance leaders our year 5/6 primary school leaders from the Bronze Ambassador award, Sports Leaders UK Playmaker award and SSP cross country winners, Youth Sport Trust project groups from Active in Mind (Y7/8), Boys Move (Y7/8), Girls FA (Y9/10) Time Group (Y10), Move and Groove leaders (Y9) and Girls Active and Beyond the Baseline Tennis projects (Y7/8) have also been invited to attend.
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Highfields School
Issue 28:
6 May 2022
Newsletter Highfields Bake Off! – Y7/8 Pastry Week
Pastry week was incredible. The standard was excellent and we had some very creative and original offerings. As always staff found it incredibly difficult to identify individual entries for extra reward. These will be announced in assemblies next week!
We have been so impressed in every round of Bake Off. We have some incredibly talented students at Highfields and we feel so fortunate that so many of them are involving themselves in the school community and taking part.
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Highfields School
Issue 28:
6 May 2022
Newsletter The pastry round concludes our Highfields Bake Off. We are planning to do a ‘technical’ round of some description after half term……. Watch this space for more information!
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Highfields School
Issue 28:
6 May 2022
Newsletter
Parents/carers of current year 6 students Welcome to Highfields School! Over the coming months we will be in contact with all year 6 families coming to Highfields in September to ensure we can best help you smoothly make the move to being a Highfields student. We will think through all those issues and concerns you might have - What is the school like? How will I find my way around? How do I buy the uniform? What will happen with the buses? Our school website holds all our key information and news, but really specific messages will come from Mr Allsobrook. He will be the year manager for year 7 in September and your first point of contact. Mr Allsobrook has already sent a welcome email to parents/carers of our year 6 students via our Weduc communication system. Please make sure that you have download the Weduc app so that you receive all communications. If your family haven't received an email from Mr Allsobrook, please email callsobrook@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk with your name and primary school so he can add you to our communication list. We will regularly update this page of the newsletter with the latest information issued. We look forward to working with families over the coming months to ensure that every student begins their Highfields journey as smoothly as possible. Mrs Ruston Head of Year 7 (September 2022)
Mr Allsobrook Year Manager (Year 7 September 2022)
September 2022 – Transport to school The link below is to the Derbyshire County Council website that aims to answer any questions you may have on school transport in September 2022: https://derbyshire.gov.uk/education/schools/your-child-at-school/travel/school-transport.aspx The site provides information on the options available for travelling between school and home, including details on free bus travel, timetables and DCC plans and policies for school transport.
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Highfields School
Issue 28:
6 May 2022
Newsletter School Meals Monday 9 May – Friday 13 May 2022: Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
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.
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Highfields School
Issue 28:
6 May 2022
Newsletter Student bulletin Week commencing Monday 9 May: Week A Year 10 mock examinations (all week) Y9 woodland fieldwork (Lumsdale) in geography lessons (all week)
Monday Y8 assembly (Starkholmes)
Tuesday Sixth Form assembly (Lumsdale)
Wednesday Y7 assembly (Starkholmes) Y9 assembly (Lumsdale)
Thursday Y11 assembly (Lumsdale)
Friday Y10 assembly (Lumsdale)
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Highfields School
Issue 28:
6 May 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)
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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 28:
6 May 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
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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 28:
6 May 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 28:
6 May 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
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Highfields School
Issue 28:
6 May 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/
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Highfields School
Issue 28:
6 May 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.
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Highfields School
Issue 28:
6 May 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.
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Highfields School
Issue 28:
6 May 2022
Newsletter
Mental Health support
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Highfields School
Issue 28:
6 May 2022
Newsletter
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 28:
6 May 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
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Highfields School
Issue 28:
6 May 2022
Newsletter Covid-19 update Covid-19 guidance for children aged 18 years and under who have a positive test result It is not recommended that children and young people are tested for COVID-19 unless directed to by a health professional. If a child or young person has a positive COVID-19 test result they should try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people for three days after the day they took the test, if they can. After three days, if they feel well and do not have a high temperature, the risk of passing the infection on to others is much lower. This is because children and young people tend to be infectious to other people for less time than adults. Children and young people who usually go to school, college or childcare and who live with someone who has a positive COVID-19 test result should continue to attend as normal.
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 28:
6 May 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 28:
6 May 2022
Newsletter Key Staff for 2021-22 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) 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 – Mrs C Hakin (acting head of department) Drama & Dance – Miss L Colgan (Miss E Bonsall – maternity leave) English – Mrs H Key (acting head of department) 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 28:
6 May 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 28:
6 May 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 Y8/Y9 immunisations - HPV Y10 internal exams Easter Concert (7-10pm) 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) Exam contingency day 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) 26 April 2022 (Starkholmes/Lumsdale during school day) 3-13 May 2022 (Sports Hall) 25 May 2022 (Wheeldon Hall, Lumsdale) 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) 29 June 2022 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 28:
6 May 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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