Highfields School
Issue 37:
15 July 2022
Highfields School Newsletter Newsletter
2021-22
Issue 37: 15 July 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 37:
15 July 2022
Newsletter
Contents: Message from the headteacher ....................................................................4 Parents/Carers Update .................................................................................6
Reminder of arrangements for last day of term – Wednesday 20 July ........................... 6 Returning to school in September............................................................................... 6 2022-23 academic year ............................................................................................. 6 School meal prices for September 2022 ...................................................................... 6
School sport and sports leaders news ...........................................................7
Play your way to Wimbledon ...................................................................................... 7 Active in Mind ........................................................................................................... 8 Sports Leaders UK Quality Assurance.......................................................................... 8 YST Athlete Mentor at Highfields ................................................................................ 8 Move and Groove ...................................................................................................... 9 Combat Sports Day 2022 ........................................................................................... 9
Community News ...................................................................................... 12
DCF Summer Camp ................................................................................................. 12 Tinderbox Performing Arts Centre Summer Drama Workshops ................................... 13 Summer Activity Camp opportunities ........................................................................ 14
Parents/carers of current year 6 students ................................................... 15
Welcome to Highfields School! ................................................................................. 15 School uniform code ................................................................................................ 15 The Cashless catering system .................................................................................. 15 Weduc communication system reminder ................................................................... 15 September 2022 – Transport to school ..................................................................... 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
Student information ................................................................................... 20
School to home communication................................................................................ 20 School Website / VLE............................................................................................... 20 Show My Homework online homework submission guidance ...................................... 20 Always be doing tasks ............................................................................................. 20 Free Microsoft Office for Students ............................................................................ 20
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 37:
15 July 2022
Newsletter Support and resources available ................................................................. 21
Autism Information & Advice Service – Autism Awareness for parents/carers .............. 21 Autism telephone support helpline ............................................................................ 22 Ambitious about Autism online platform launch ......................................................... 22 Free grocery vouchers for low income families .......................................................... 22 Free School Meal Criteria ......................................................................................... 23 Voluntary Sector & Community Services for Children, Young People & Families ........... 24 Mental Health support ............................................................................................. 27
Highfields School uniform........................................................................... 29 Communication with school – contact details ............................................... 30
Key Staff for 2022-23 .............................................................................................. 31 Highfields School Governing Board 2021-22 .............................................................. 32 Governing board vacancies ...................................................................................... 32
Key dates .................................................................................................. 33
Summer exam results days 2022 .............................................................................. 34 2022-23 term dates and INSET days ........................................................................ 34
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 37:
15 July 2022
Newsletter Message from the headteacher How do you stay positive when things are difficult? I bet you do it really well: it’s something I sometimes have to work hard at. As you would imagine as the leader of a medium sized organisation I end up dealing with a lot of conflict. If you are going to ‘hold the line’ on standards then, inevitably I find, it puts you in the firing line of anyone who doesn’t want those standards to be upheld. Conflict is a part of every day life and is usually taken in good grace. It’s only at the end of a long year, following a pandemic on a day when some classrooms are approaching temperatures of 30 degrees that you start to lose your sense of perspective a bit. I’m not sure how you deal with similar challenges but I FORCE myself to register the positives. The photo below was taken on Wednesday as a bunch of Y7 lads were making their way back to lessons. Completely unconsciously they grabbed each other by the shoulders and JUST LOOKED SO HAPPY WITH THEIR LOT. Blue sky, amongst mates, safe and sound in school. This alone was enough to push me on towards the challenges held by the remains of the day. I know you didn’t do it for me, but if you are in this picture: THANK YOU. Huge amounts going on this week to be happy about. Y8 graduated onto upper site to become Y9s. Mr Hodkin and I personally led a week of activities for some students who needed more support before graduating (I was thrilled to see two of these students address peers from 10 other schools at a seminar in Nottinghamshire on anti-bullying). Elsewhere, sports leaders coached primary school students in combat sports at the Arc and the cast of Sister Act launched their mini season with a performance for primary school students. In my Y8 PSHE lesson my certainty that a Highfields graduate would one day be prime minister was further fuelled by a brilliant response from Florence on the subject of disability and discrimination. I made her promise that, unlike my other famous ex-students, she would remember me when she achieved the top. She wrote me this note to reassure me. And on Thursday night I went to the second evening performance of the show and wrote this fevered late night note to the cast and crew…
WOW WOW WOW WOW WOW. I’m not in the habit (see what I did there) of going over the top but I am just completely and utterly in awe of the cast and crew of Sister Act. When talk started of doing a musical coming out of the pandemic I didn’t think we had a prayer. But boy was I wrong. This was arguably the best thing I have ever seen on a school stage (and I’ve seen a lot). I loved every single aspect of the production. I loved the way the company worked together with (apparently) no egos and no tantrums (although that bed was a bit temperamental). I loved the precision and sensitivity of the band. I LOVED the commitment and character of the ensemble and I ADORED the way that the principles led from the front. The tech was great and whoever was cueing the lighting changes has GOT IT GOING ONNNN! Your story telling was brilliant and I got a real sense of character development- you absolutely brought out the best in this piece. The direction was creative and big (when it needed to be) and sensitive (when it needed to be). Every time I thought you’d be struggling to take it up a semitone you managed it with style!!! I could go on all night.
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Highfields School
Issue 37:
15 July 2022
Newsletter Thank you, thank you thank you for a marvellous evening and for TAKING ME TO HEEAAAAAAAVVVVVVEEEEEEEEEENNNNNNNNN! Your biggest fan, Mr Marsh So that should be my last newsletter bit of the year. If you miss my little missives during the summer holiday please seek help because, clearly, your life has become unbearably dull. Take care of those around you - we cannot wait to begin our learning journey together all over again when you return from your summer break. Сподіваюся, у вас буде спокійне свято, і я з нетерпінням чекаю зустрічі з усіма вами у вересні. We are Highfields. A Marsh Headteacher
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Highfields School
Issue 37:
15 July 2022
Newsletter Parents/Carers Update Reminder of arrangements for last day of term – Wednesday 20 July The last day of term is Wednesday 20 July. No students will be in school from Thursday 21 July, due to the additional day for the Queen’s Jubilee being taken on the Thursday, and the INSET day on Friday 22 July. For the last day of term on 20 July we are amending the timetable for the school day to allow school to close at 1.45pm for the start of the summer holiday and normal timetabled lessons will continue until lunch. A letter has been issued to update parents/carers where contract buses are able to collect from school at 2pm. Students who catch local service buses or Stagecoach services will need to make their own arrangements to get home. If arrangements cause childcare issues, please contact school and we will look at providing supervision until 3.20pm.
Returning to school in September We would like to remind you that our new year 7, year 9 and year 12 students return on Friday 2 September (this will be our timetable week A) and all year groups return on Monday 5 September (timetable week B).
2022-23 academic year Term Term Term Term Term Term
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
INSET days (no students in school) Thursday 1 September 2022 Friday 21 October 2022 Monday 5 December 2022 Thursday 22 December Friday 30 June 2023
School meal prices for September 2022 Derbyshire County Council have confirmed the price of a meal deal will be £2.60 from 1 September 2022, please ensure students have sufficient funds on their accounts.
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Highfields School
Issue 37:
15 July 2022
Newsletter School sport and sports leaders news Mrs Allen, School Sports Co-ordinator
Play your way to Wimbledon On Saturday 9 July the ‘play your way to Wimbledon’ County finals were held at Hawksley Avenue, Chesterfield. Our Highfields representatives were Phoebe H (Y7) and Charlotte B and Ethan B (Y8). All the students were up against County players and we were the only school to get through to this round.
The students played very well. They learned a lot and experienced the next level of tennis. Mr Molynuex and I enjoyed supporting the students along with their parents.
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Highfields School
Issue 37:
15 July 2022
Newsletter Active in Mind On Monday, Mr Molyneux visited South Darley Primary School for the penultimate session of the ‘Active in Mind’ project session 2022. He was with the pupils very briefly this week as they were rehearsing for their school play Jungle Book – good luck!
Sports Leaders UK Quality Assurance Sports Leaders UK quality assurance took place on Tuesday. All assessment decisions and verification reports were passed and the cohort of level 1/2/3 students in years 10, 11, 12 and 13 have successfully passed their qualifications for the 2021-22 academic year.
YST Athlete Mentor at Highfields Youth Sport Trust athlete mentor, Tom Davis, Olympic judo player visited Highfields on Tuesday to start a joint project ‘Co-Creation’ with Y7 and 9. Tom joined us to start the project with students ahead of its September launch.
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Highfields School
Issue 37:
15 July 2022
Newsletter Move and Groove The final session of the intergenerational project, ‘Move and Grove’ took place on Tuesday with Darley Hall care home residents and our Y9 dance leaders. This project has been brilliant. Leaders again led a session of singing and Boccia. They chatted with the residents about dance; completed the final surveys and swab test for the research project and took part in filming of the session for the YST and IMM. Our students gave out chocolates to the residents and staff as we said our goodbyes for now! Everyone involved has benefitted from this excellent project and we will await funding news to see if we can continue with it in September.
Mrs Allen also took part in the final activator session on Wednesday to reflect on this fantastic project and look to the next steps.
Combat Sports Day 2022 On Wednesday the primary/secondary schools combat sports day 2022 was held. Our coaches for this event were Trevor Hoskins from British Wrestling, Sally Peat from British Fencing, Andy Parton from British Judo and Paul White from Snap Dragons Martial Arts. Primary pupils and some Highfields students and Highfields sports leaders were in action on this last event of the 2021/22 academic year. They had a chance to try each sport during the day and the leaders were there to support. Pupils and students were awarded certificates and trophies.
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 37:
15 July 2022
Newsletter
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 37:
15 July 2022
Newsletter
This was the final event for Mr Molyneux who, after seven years, now leaves Highfields to take up his PGCE year at Sheffield Hallam University. He has been an outstanding member of the PE department both in terms of his TA role and in supporting Mrs Allen in all of the Highfields cluster events, and a brilliant tutor in the Highfields Sports Leadership Academy. Mrs Allen has been privileged to both teach Mr Molyneux as a student and mentor him as an apprentice where he completed level 1/2/3/5 qualifications in BTEC vocational studies. During his employment as a TA he has excelled and worked alongside Mrs Allen in the primary programme. We will miss him, but wish him every success in his journey to becoming a PE teacher. In September we welcome another ex-student, Mr Marshall, to the team to work alongside Mrs Allen on the primary programme and sports leadership work. This concluded the programme of activities for the Highfields Primary Schools Cluster 2021-22.
Small School Champions 2022 – Lea Primary School
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Large school champions 2022 South Darley Primary School - 11 -
Highfields School
Issue 37:
15 July 2022
Newsletter
Community News DCF Summer Camp
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Highfields School
Issue 37:
15 July 2022
Newsletter Tinderbox Performing Arts Centre Summer Drama Workshops
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Highfields School
Issue 37:
15 July 2022
Newsletter Summer Activity Camp opportunities Derbyshire Dales District Council have some summer Activity Camps organised around the district during the school holidays. This is open to students/young leaders/school leavers who are interested in getting some hands on coaching experience at any of the sessions, particularly anyone wanting to get into coaching or further sport based education at college/university. The sessions will be at Arc LC Matlock, Wirksworth LC, Ashbourne LC and Bakewell Recreation Ground. Please see the link below for further details: https://www.facebook.com/activedales
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Highfields School
Issue 37:
15 July 2022
Newsletter Parents/carers of current year 6 students Welcome to Highfields School! We would like to take the opportunity to say thank you for engaging in our transition process this year. We do hope that the information we have provided has helped to make you all feel a little more comfortable about making the transition to Highfields in September. We are looking forward to meeting our new year 7 students on Friday 2 September. Students will have the whole of lower school to themselves and will spend the day with their form class, getting to know their tutor and new classmates. A letter will be sent to parents/carers over the summer to activate your ParentPay account to enable you to pay for school trips, meals and activities. Please add money to the school dinners account on 31 August ready for their first day. Again, thank you for your continued support throughout the transition process. Our school website holds all our key information and news, however, if you do have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. Mr Allsobrook will be your child’s year manager from September throughout their time at Highfields and Mrs Ruston will be their head of year. Any initial questions should be directed to Mr Allsobrook in the first instance. We look forward to welcoming you in September.
School uniform code Information on Highfields School uniform has been issued to all parents/carers. A copy of the uniform code is also on our website. 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.
The Cashless catering system The latest information issued to parents/carers of Y6 students is information on our cashless catering system. Please ensure you check your emails and action the electronic consent issued.
Weduc communication system reminder Parents/carers of Y6 students should have received an enrolment email from Weduc. Please ensure you download the Weduc app or register via the Weduc website begin to receive communications from school.
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 37:
15 July 2022
Newsletter Extra-curricular clubs and activities Starkholmes
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
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 A) Room 8 LT Chess Club (Week B) Room 8LT Y8 Netball Court AJW Y8/Y7 Sports Leaders Gym DM Y7 Boys football Field JS Y7 Creative writing and book club EF
Y8 Football Field/Astro JW Y7/8 Art club 3.45-4.45pm Room 12 Warhammer club – all years HWE/AEB (at Lumsdale)
1A
Thursday
Friday
Girls football Gym/Field LP Table Tennis GYM DM Dance Club 1-1:30pm Year 7 /8 AH
GCSE Dance intervention PArts Mob
Dungeons and Dragons (Week A) Y8
Room 1
Rugby Girls/Boys y7/8 Field JW/JS
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) Room 8 LT
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Highfields School
Issue 37:
15 July 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
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,
Football Y10/sixth form RS Book club/creative writing (week B)
Dance Club Year 9-13 Sixth Form
Sports hall CS/JA
Thursday
Friday
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
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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Primary Evening sports hall Y9 Boys Football Astro JW Y10 Football
CS
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 37:
15 July 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.
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Highfields School
Issue 37:
15 July 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 37:
15 July 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 username and tutor group to request a new password.
Show My Homework online homework submission guidance Students should be submitting work through the SMHW platform. The link below is from SMHW and explains how to do this or you can follow the steps below: https://help.teamsatchel.com/en/articles/2912000-submitting-my-work-online
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 37:
15 July 2022
Newsletter Support and resources available Autism Information & Advice Service – Autism Awareness for parents/carers
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Highfields School
Issue 37:
15 July 2022
Newsletter 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.
Free grocery vouchers for low income families As part of a national scheme, Derbyshire County Council is providing a free one-off grocery voucher worth £50 per eligible child to families in need to help them pay for food and essential living costs. Full details about the Household Support Fund, including other ways those facing financial hardship can access support from the fund, are available through the link to DCC website below: www.derbyshire.gov.uk/householdsupportfund Distribution of the vouchers by email or text will start in early July and continue throughout the month of July. If parents and carers who are eligible do not receive a voucher by 20 July 2022, they should visit www.derbyshire.gov.uk/householdsupportfund where an online form will be available to report missing vouchers.
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Highfields School
Issue 37:
15 July 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 37:
15 July 2022
Newsletter Voluntary Sector & Community Services for Children, Young People & Families Produced by Chesterfield Royal Hospital, October 2017 (Updated October 2019)
Derbyshire Autism Services www.derbyshireautismservices.org
A charity based in Ripley, offering information, advice, guidance and support for children, young people, adults and families across Derbyshire who may be affected by Autism. Telephone: 01773 741 221
Fairplay www.fair-play.co.uk
A charity based in central Chesterfield, providing services across North Derbyshire, including play schemes, youth clubs, activity days, independent living support and home based support to individuals aged between 0 and 25 with disabilities and additional needs, and their families. Telephone: 01246 203963
Autism East Midlands Family Hub www.autismeastmidlands.org.uk
The Hub is a regular meeting point for families and children affected by ASD. There are activities for children, family support and specialist training and advice. Email: advice@autismeastmidlands.org.uk
Telephone: 01909 506 678
Derbyshire Information, Advice and Support Service (DIASS) www.derbyshireiass.co.uk/
DIASS is the Parent Partnership Service. They provide independent information, advice and support to young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), as well as their parents and carers. Telephone: 01629 533660
Umbrella Derbyshire www.umbrella.uk.net
A charity which supports children & young people with any special need, aged 5 to 30, living in Derby City and Derbyshire. They support the individual and their families through their support services, activities, information, guidance and their family support groups. Telephone: 01332 785658
National Autistic Society Derby and District Branch
www.facebook.com/NASDerbyBranch/ The official page for the Derby and District Branch of the NAS. The support group is for parents/ carers of children & adults on the autism spectrum. The group hold meetings which are an opportunity to meet and share information with other parents, other professionals and other people with ASD.
Telephone: 07500 089571
Email:derbyanddistrict@nas.org.uk
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Highfields School
Issue 37:
15 July 2022
Newsletter Derbyshire County Council Early Help & Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Service (SEND) www.derbyshire.gov.uk
Provides information on the support services and signposting for children and families where there may be emerging or low level needs or special education needs. Telephone: 01629 533190
Autism Links Support Group www.autismlinks.co.uk/support-groups
A website full of useful links to local support groups, charities and specialist services all in one place.
Equal Strands
A social opportunity for people with communication difficulties and autism. A Lego club is held on the first Saturday of every month in Chesterfield. Email: mark@equalstrands.co.uk
Support Forums Derbyshire Careers Association www.derbyshirecarers.co.uk
Provide support, advice, information and representation for carers in Derbyshire, and hold support groups. Telephone: 01773 833833
Derbyshire Parent Carer Voice www.derbyshireparentforums.co.uk
A charity which is run by parent/carer volunteers with children/young people with Special Educational Needs and/or disabilities. They organise parent forums, providing parents with the opportunity to talk about all the services they receive in Derbyshire. Telephone: 01629 533666
Informative Websites and Links Autism West Midlands www.autismwestmidlands.org.uk Their website provides resources for families and professionals. The service also offers training to parents and professionals, holds events and activities and supports families in the West Midlands. Telephone: 0121 450 7582 National Autistic Society www.autism.org.uk
A charity which provides information and advice to autistic people, their families and friends. They also run a range of support services for children, young people and adults.
Telephone: 020 7833 2299
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 37:
15 July 2022
Newsletter Sibs/YoungSibs www.sibs.org.uk www.youngsibs.org.uk
A charity which supports people who grow up with or have grown up with a disabled sibling. They provide siblings with information and support, and additional information for parents and professionals. The charity also host sibling support groups.
Scope www.scope.org.uk
A charity that provide support, information and advice to disabled people, their families and professionals. Telephone: 0808 800 3333
CAMHS North Derbyshire www.camhsnorthderbyshire.nhs.uk Our website has some helpful advice and information on our teams and services including information about ASD, our parent/carer workshops and our Urgent Care Team.
Mental Health & Wellbeing Kooth www.kooth.com
Free, safe and anonymous online counselling and support.
Shout www.giveusashout.org
Shout is the UK’s first free 24/7 text service for anyone in a crisis anytime, anywhere.
Young Minds www.youngminds.org.uk
A charity recognising the importance of mental health and well-being of young people. With practical advice, national projects and information of what to do in a crisis.
Further resources Autism Eye www.autismeye.com
An online based magazine informing parents and professionals on the latest research and news on Autism. Online subscription is free.
The Children’s Sleep Charity www.thechildrenssleepcharity.org.uk
Provides families and professionals with support and training on supporting children with sleep issues.
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 37:
15 July 2022
Newsletter
Mental Health support
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 37:
15 July 2022
Newsletter
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 37:
15 July 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 is designed to be clear and can be accessed on the following link: https://www.highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk/our-school/uniform/. Parents/carers are encouraged to check with the school on 01629 581888 where they are unsure on any item of school uniform. Trutex Direct and Kick Off Sport both stock Highfields uniform. Kick Off Sport also stock the Highfields PE kit. Orders can be placed on line both with Trutex Direct (https://www.trutex.com/) and Kick Off Sport (https://www.kickoffsport.co.uk/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. 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 37:
15 July 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 37:
15 July 2022
Newsletter Key Staff for 2022-23 Headteacher: Mr A Marsh
Deputy Headteacher: Mr P R Cole
Assistant Headteachers: Mrs C Rifkin Mr M Hodkin
Directors of Catch-up
Mrs C Morgan (Curriculum) 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
Mrs A Ruston Miss J Hughes Mrs A Hollinrake / Mrs L Redhead Mr K Rodgers Mr A Bishton Mr M Flett Mr Allsobrook Mrs Green Miss Esposito Mr Tidmarsh Mrs Weightman Edge 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 Drama & Dance – Miss Bonsall 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 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 37:
15 July 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 37:
15 July 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 GCSEs / A level exam series Music Concert (7-10pm) Sports Leaders Awards Evening Y8 end of year internal exams Y12 internal exams Y7 end of year internal exams Y9 internal exams Exam contingency day Y10 work experience week 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) From 16 May 2022 (Sports Hall) 25 May 2022 (Wheeldon Hall, Lumsdale) 26 May 2022 6-8pm (Wheeldon Hall) 6-10 June 2022 (in lessons) 6-17 June 2022 (classrooms) tbc 13-17 June 2022 (in lessons) 27-28 June 2022 (in lessons) 29 June 2022 4-8 July 2022 6 July 2022 6 July 2022 6 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 37:
15 July 2022
Newsletter Summer exam results days 2022 A level and GCSE results will be published and available for students to collect during the following mornings – Y11 and Y13 students will be notified of times to collect:
A level – Thursday 18 August 2022 GCSE – Thursday 25 August 2022
School staff will be available on both days.
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
School day: Form Time Period 1 Period 2 Break
Start 08:45 09:05 09:55 10:45
Be the best you can
Finish 09:05 09:55 10:45 11:10
Period 3 Period 4 Lunch
Start 11:10 12:00 12:50
Finish 12:00 12:50 13:40
Period 5 Period 6 Tutorial Y11-13
Start 13:40 14:30
Finish 14:30 15:20
15:20
15:30
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