Highfields School Newsletter
2022-23
Issue14: 13January2023
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
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HighfieldsSchool Issue14: 13 January2023 Newsletter Bethebestyoucan - 2Contents: Message from the headteacher................................................................................4 Parents/Carers Update..............................................................................................5 Back to school advice from the UK Health Security Agency..........................................5 Save the Children fundraising.....................................................................................5 Action Required - Y9 vaccinations for Teenage Booster (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Polio) and Meningitis ACWY & Y10 catch up vaccinations.............................................................5 Replacement bus passes............................................................................................6 Reminder - action required:Y7-9 school based flu immunisations..................................6 Internet Safety Coffee Morning invite ........................................................................7 Forthcoming events: January & February...................................................................8 Evening of Theatre....................................................................................................9 School News............................................................................................................. 10 A great end to 2022 for the sixth formers................................................................. 10 A Level Certificates Evening..................................................................................... 12 School sport and sports leaders news................................................................... 13 Primary school events.............................................................................................. 13 Advance Notices...................................................................................................... 15 Student Bulletin........................................................................................................ 16 Police and Crime Commissioner Survey..................................................................... 17 School lunch menu.................................................................................................. 18 Extra-curricular clubs and activities........................................................................... 19 Careers, College & Apprenticeship News.............................................................. 21 Resources............................................................................................................... 21 Careers inspiration and advice from BBC Bitesize....................................................... 21 Unifrog Careers programme..................................................................................... 21 Online careers programme for 11-18 year olds.......................................................... 21 Sixth form career opportunities................................................................................ 22 My Future app and website...................................................................................... 22 Speakers for Schools - Youth Card for students......................................................... 22 Apprenticeship opportunities.................................................................................... 23 o Government Economic Service Degree Apprenticeships ................................... 23 o Apprenticeship opportunities at Fujitsu........................................................... 23 o National Apprenticeship Week 2023................................................................ 23 o Finding an apprenticeship.............................................................................. 23 Student information................................................................................................. 24 School to home communication................................................................................ 24 School Website / VLE............................................................................................... 24 Show My Homework online homework submission guidance...................................... 24 Free Microsoft Office for Students............................................................................ 24
HighfieldsSchool Issue14: 13 January2023 Newsletter Bethebestyoucan - 3Highfields School uniform...........................................................................25 Community news.......................................................................................26 Active Dales: Fun Run volunteers wanted................................................................. 26 Matlock multi-sports youth session........................................................................... 27 Support and resources available.................................................................28 Free School Meal Criteria......................................................................................... 28 Autism telephone support helpline............................................................................ 29 Ambitious about Autism online platform launch......................................................... 29 Voluntary Sector & Community Services for Children, Young People & Families........... 30 Mental Health support............................................................................................. 33 Communication with school – contact details...............................................35 Key Staff for 2022-23.............................................................................................. 36 Highfields School Governing Board 2022-23.............................................................. 37 Key dates..................................................................................................38 Additional Bank Holiday – May 2023......................................................................... 39 2023-24 academic year and CPD days...................................................................... 39 Disclaimer: HighfieldsSchoolisnotresponsibleforthequalityofproductsororganisationspublicisedthrougharticlesor advertisementsintheschoolnewsletter.
Messagefromtheheadteacher
Like most of the country, seemingly, I suffered from the lurgy during the holiday period. In fact, when my alarm went off on the first morning of term I thought I was going to have to phone in sick for the first time in a while. In the event though I took my usual approach and set myself a set of modest targets. Firstly, I aimed to get to work so I could at least check in with my PA and make plans to cover my absence. I tend to find at school (and everyone is different in this regard) there is a kind of conveyor belt of energy that means once I step in the building it’s quite difficult to step out again until the day is over. Thanks to anyone who tolerated my slightly grey appearance all weeklong since non-contagious and well on the mend (I hope).
I got some of those ‘thank you’ notes again this week. I know I have ranted about these in former newsletter bits but it’s impossible to understate the joy they bring. This was one (left) that brought a smile to my face,
...and this other one made me feel a little better about the parent in a former survey who said I looked grumpy on bus duty.
As you will know we do not allow the use of mobile devices in school in years 7-11. This is not because we don’t feel they are useful, but because the costs outweigh the benefits and because students have plenty of opportunity to use them elsewhere. It also allows students to take part in non-screen activities. I’m pretty sure you’ll find a list of clubs elsewhere in the newsletter, but I’ve noticed this week students playing board games, neither of which did I recognise but both of which looked totally fascinating.
Have a windy but wonderful weekend.
краєм.
A Marsh Highfields School
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Сподіваюся, вам вдалося трохи відпочити за різдвяний період. Я знаю, ти напевно сумував за рідним
Parents/CarersUpdate
Back to school advice from the UK Health Security Agency
Important advice has been issued encouraging parents/carers to keep children at home if they are feeling unwell or have a fever (see link below). This is to help minimise the spread of a number of infections that are prevalent at the moment.
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/back-to-school-advice-issued-amid-high-levels-of-flu-covid-19and-scarlet-fever
Save the Children fundraising
We raised just over £1,000 in cash from our Christmas Jumper Day with all proceeds going to Save the Children. Thank you to everyone who donated.
Action Required:
Y9 vaccinations for Teenage Booster (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Polio) and Meningitis ACWY & Y10 catch up vaccinations
The School Age Immunisation Service (SAIS) for Derbyshire and Derby City will be offering all year 9 students the Teenage Booster (Tetanus, Diphtheria and Polio) and Meningitis ACWY vaccinations on 7 February2023.
Year9parents/carersare requiredto complete theconsentformvia thelinkbelow: www.derbyshireandcityimms.co.uk/Forms/DTP. The option to consent or decline the vaccination is at the end of the questionnaire so please complete the form whether you are consenting or not.
School code: DD112950
Y10catchupvaccinations: for students who missed their immunisations in Y9 but where consent was provided, the immunisation team will be able to give catch up vaccinations on 7 February along with the Y9s.
Further information about vaccinations offered in school can be accessed via the link below or on the NHS website: A Guide to Immunisations for Young People www.derbyshirefamilyhealthservice.nhs.uk/our-services/5-10-years/school-age-immunisations
If you experience any problems, please contact the School Age Immunisation Team.
Repton: 01283 707178
ClayCross: 01246 252953 DCHST.immunisationteam@nhs.net
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HighfieldsSchool Issue14: 13 January2023 Newsletter Bethebestyoucan - 6Replacement bus passes
are now offering the option to order replacement bus passes
students
DCC
the link
the replacement
bus
Reminder - action required: Y7-9 school based flu immunisations Thank you to parents/carers who have already completed the consent for the forthcoming flu immunisations. The NHS immunisation team will be on site on 19 January 2023 to vaccinate students in years 7, 8 and 9. If you have not yet given consent for your child to have the flu vaccination, please click the link below in order to ensure the immunisation team can order sufficient vaccines to immunise students with consent. Tocompletetheconsentformforyourchildtoreceivethefluvaccination, clickthelinkbelow.Oneformforeachchild. https://www.derbyshireandcityimms.co.uk/Forms/Flu Schoolname:HighfieldsSchool Schoolcode:DD112950 Dateinschool:19January2023 FluInformationLeaflet Repton:01283707178ClayCross:01246252953 DCHST.immunisationteam@nhs.net www.derbyshirefamilyhealthservice.nhs.uk
Derbyshire County Council
for
on the
website through
below (search for
school
pass option): https://www.civicaepay.co.uk/DerbyshireEstore/estore/default/Catalog/Index
HighfieldsSchool Issue14: 13 January2023 Newsletter Bethebestyoucan - 7Highfields and Cluster School’s Family Support Team would like to invite you to our Pleaseemailfamilysupport@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uktoconfirmattendance asplacesarelimited
Forthcoming events: January & February
Tuesday 17 January: Y9 virtual parent consultation evening
Thursday 19 January: Y7, 8 & 9 flu vaccinations in school
Wednesday 25 January & Evening of Theatre (Bowler Hall, Starkholmes)
Thursday 26 January:
Tuesday 31 January: Y11 virtual parent consultation evening
Friday 3 February: Y9 health day (during the day)
Tuesday 7 February: Y9 TDP/Men ACWY immunisations in school / Y10 catch up
Tuesday 14 February: Y8 virtual parent consultation evening
Thursday 16 February: Y11 mock interviews (during the day)
Monday 27 February: Y11/Y13 mock exams start (details to be confirmed)
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There was a student-led call to contribute to local food banks, and so the committee organised that too, meeting up with the food bank organisers to find out what was wanted and delivering it to them, once students had collected in a good haul from the rest of the sixth form.
Students dressed up to serve Christmas dinner to the rest of the school, and also helped to run the Starkholmes disco, turning up as red-carpet celebrities who had their photos taken with the Year 7 and 8 students.
In return for their hard work, the Christmas quiz at Designate took place for the first time since the pandemic. MrsCruiseputtogetheragreatevening’sentertainment. TheChristmasquizisacollection of questions on different themes over 90 minutes and at the end, the maths teachers win.
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A Level Certificates Evening
ALevelstudentswholeftinSummer2022returnedforcertificateseveningattheendoftheChristmas term. We were absolutely delighted to see them and their parents. There was practically no room left in the Wheeldon Hall.
The keynote speech was from Pat Parsons, a former Royal Marine who now works with Mountain RescueinMatlock. Hetalked about respondingtotheopportunitiesandchallengesoflife,withstories fromhisownexperience. TheMayorofMatlockwasalsotheretocongratulateallourALevelstudents on their hard work, through the challenging times of their sixth form experience.
It was fabulous to see so many former students and parents, and we were reminded of what a great group they were.
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Schoolsportandsportsleadersnews
Mrs Allen, School Sports Co-ordinator
Primary school events
On Tuesday the first primary school event for 2023 took place at Lumsdale. Students in years 5 and 6 took part in sports hall athletics for both large and small schools
Highfields sports leaders from years 7-11 officiated at this event having been trained in the art of officiating byAdamBurgessfromEnglandAthleticsjustbeforeChristmas. MissJudsonwastheadmin official and the event was overseen by Mrs Allen. The leaders of the day were Sam C (Y11) and Alex C (Y9).
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On a torrential rainy morning the competitors were pleased this was an indoor event. We would like to thank the Head from Darley Dale Primary who used our minibus to transport pupils from her own school and also All Saints who usually walk to these events.
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The event saw the pupils participate in both fieldevents and track events and results were as follows:
Large Schools Small Schools
1st – Lea
2nd – All Saints
3rd – Darley Dale
1st – Wessington
2nd – South Darley
3rd - Tansley
Lea and Wessington now go on to represent Highfields Cluster at the SSP finals at Anthony Gell on 15 February (large schools 9.30am-12.30pm and small schools 1.15-3.15pm).
Advance Notice:
Tuesday17 January–Primary SchoolsminibasketballatLumsdale (sportshall)
Small schools from 10am-12noon and large schools from 1pm-3pm. Highfields sports leaders officiating
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StudentBulletin
WeekcommencingMonday16January2023: WeekB
Monday:
Y9 assembly
Y10 music mock performance exams
Tuesday:
Y7 and Y11 assembly
Y10 music mock performance exams
Wednesday: Y10 assembly
Y10 music mock performance exams
Thursday:
Y8 and sixth form assembly
Y7, 8 & 9 NHS flu vaccinations
Friday: -
See the list of extra-curricular activities taking place at lunch time and after school each day on both school sites.
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Police and Crime Commissioner Survey
Angelique Foster, the Police and Crime Commissioner, has asked for help to make sure young people in Derbyshire are getting the opportunity to have their say on ‘policing’.
A Police and Crime Commissioner survey has been produced asking young people whether they have been a victim of crime in the past 12 months and whether they agree with the initial six priorities outlined by Commissioner, Angelique Foster: strong local policing,
neighbourhood crime and antisocial behaviour,
rural crime,
road safety,
victim support and
safeguarding and driving efficiencies.
It also provides respondents with the option of suggesting other priorities they think should be included.
Responses need to be completed before the end of February 2023 and the link for students to complete is https://bit.ly/ListeningToYou22-23
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Schoollunchmenu
Week C menu: week commencing Monday 16 January 2023
C Hot dish of the day Light bites
Monday
ItalianMeatballMelt G/Mservedwith PastaGandSeasonal Vegetables
VeganMeatballsG/So servedwithPastaG andSeasonal VegetablesVe
BeefLasagne G/M/Mu
Tuesday
Wednesday
VeganChilliSoVe
CheesePanini Cheese/HamPanini Cheese&Meatball PaniniJacketPotato LoveJoeWrap/Panini PastaBakePasta/Sauce
Desserts Break
Cherry&Coconut CookieG/Su ChocolateBrownieE/G AppleStrudelSponge E/G/M
CheesePanini Cheese/HamPanini JacketPotato LoveJoeWrap/Panini PastaBakePasta/Sauce
CheesePanini Cheese/HamPanini JacketPotato LoveJoeWrap/Panini PastaBakePasta/Sauce
BaconCobs Croissants CheeseBagels Cheese/Bean Wrap Toast Teacakes Crumpets FreshFruit Yoghurt
BaconCob KPGarlicBread CheesyWheels Toasties Toast/Jam Teacakes Crumpets FreshFruitYoghurt
RoastGammonwith StuffingGcreamed potatoesMSeasonal Vegetables&Gravy
VeganMinceCobbler G/SoVe Potatoes seasonalveg &gravy
Thursday
ChickenKormaM withBrown/White RiceSeasonal Vegetables &Naan G
RedPepper& ChickpeaKormaM Brown&WhiteRice SeasonalVeg& NaanG
Friday
RosalieBiscuitG FlapjackG Chocolate &Pear SpongeE/G
ShortbreadSliceG BananaToffeeMuffin E/GChocolateOrange SpongeE/G
CheesePaniniCheese &HamPaniniJacket Potato LoveJoeWrap/Panini PastaBakePasta/Sauce
ChocolateOrange RosalieGChocolate CracknelG/MFruitPie E/G
BaconCobPizza BaguetteKPGarlic BreadToasties Teacakes ToastCrumpetsFresh FruitYoghurt
BaconCobSausage CobKPGarlicBread CheesyWheels Toast/JamTeacakes Crumpets FreshFruitYoghurt
BatteredFishF/G served withChipsPeas& BakedBean
CheesePanini Cheese/HamPanini JacketPotato LoveJoeWrap/Panini PastaBakePasta/Sauce
OatCookieG/Su ChocolateCrunchE/G ForestFruitMuffinE/G
BaconCobFlavoured NaimPizzaBaguette BBQ&CheeseWraps ToastTeacakes CrumpetsFreshFruit Yoghurt MargaritaPizzaG/M VeTortillaLayer G/M/Soservedwith ChipsPeas& CarrotsVe
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Monday
Extra-curricularclubsandactivities
Students are encouraged to participate in a number of extra-curricular activities that take place either at lunch time or after school across both sites. The list of clubs is regularly updated and students are given the details during tutor time.
Starkholmes (lower school site)
Tuesday
CLUBS
Lunch Afterschool
Y7homeworkclubinroom4
Y8homeworkclubinroom7withMrsGreen
Y7/8‘actingforstageandscreen’inthe PerformingArtsmobilewithMissScattergood
Y7/8sportsleadersinthegymwithMissJudson
Warhammerclub(allyears)withMrsWeightman EdgeandMrBishtonatLumsdale(upperschool site)from3.30-4.40pminC5
Y7-11girls’footballontheall-weatherpitchat LumsdalewithMrShirtcliffeandMissPaley
Y8Dungeonsanddragonsclubinroom1from 3.30pm-4.30pmwithMissPoundall
Y7-8 Artclub Week B 3.45-4.45inC6(Lumsdale) withMissSellars
Y7/8danceclubinthePerformingArtsmobile withMissScattergood
JuniorChoirintheMusicroomwithMrsMorris
Y8boys’footballontheall-weatherpitchat LumsdalewithMrRobertsandMrSearson
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Wednesday
LGBT+groupS6withDrToutandMissPaley
Y7homeworkclubinroom4
Y8homeworkclubinroom7withMissJudson
TabletennisinthegymwithMrSearson
Y8creativewritingin1AwithMissFearn
Geoglebox(Geography-themedTV...David Attenboroughetc)inRoom2
Y7/8AstronomyclubinLab3withMrRuston
Thursday
‘Boysmove’inthegymwithMrSearsonandMr
KeyboardclinicintheMusicroomwithMrRowley Computingclubinroom4withMrLovatt Y7Craftclubinroom1withMissMitchell WarhammerandChessclubinroom8withMiss Tatam MiniMusicalfrom3.30-4.30pmintheperforming artsmobilewithMissBonsallandMissScattergood Y7boys’footballontheall-weatherpitchat
Y7/8rugbyonthefieldwithMrShirtcliffe Y7-8netballatLumsdalewithMrsWildgoose Friday Y7homeworkclubinroom4 Y8homeworkclubinroom7withMrsGreen Y7bookclub(weekB)at1.15pminthelibrary Y8bookclub(weekA)at1.15pminthelibrary Y7/8gardeningcluboutsideHoY Y8filmclubin1AwithMissFearn JuniorOrchestrainthemusicroomwithMr Stacey
Y7/8fitnessclubinthegymwithMissPaley
Waller
Y7filmclubin1AwithMissFearn
LumsdalewithMrRobertsandMrSearson
Monday
Lumsdale (upper school site)
Lunch Afterschool
Y11GCSEfurthermathsinM3andM4
Homeworkclub(allyears)inH4
MusicLab(MusicTechnology)inD3withMr. Rowley
SeniorChoirinMU1withMrs.Morris/Mr. Rowley
CLUBS
Tuesday
Wednesday
MusicalTheatreclub(allyears)inP1withMiss Bonsall
Fitness(allyears)inthesportshallwithMr Shirtcliffe
Homeworkclub(allyears)inH4
Dramaclub(allyears)inP1withMissBonsall
Badminton‘smashup’(allyears)inthesports hallwithMrShirtcliffe
Y10/11ComputinghomeworksupportinIT1 withMrsHadfield
GCSEmathsrevisionwithMrMoss
Homeworkclub(allyears)inH4
GCSEGeographyrevisionandsupportinH2
Boysonlydramaclub(allyears)inP1with
Thursday
Warhammerclub(allyears)withMrsWeightman EdgeandMrBishtonatLumsdale(upperschoolsite) from3.30-4.40pminC5
DukeofEdinburgh(weekA)withMrsWildgoose,Mr ArcherandMissPaley
Y7-11girls’footballontheall-weatherpitchwith MissPaleyandMrShirtcliffe
Y9-13rugbyonthefieldwithMrsBowenandsixth form
Y12/13netballoncourtswithMrsCruise
Sixthformfootballontheall-weatherpitchwith SheffieldFC
Y9-13 Artclub WeekA 3.45-4.45inC6withMiss Sellars
Sixthformfootball,SheffieldFC
Year11dramainterventionfrom3.30-4.30pmwith MissBonsall
Year11danceinterventionatlowersite,Performing Artsmobile,from3.30-4.40pmwithMrsHollinrake
Y9-11boys’footballontheall-weatherpitchwithMr Searson,MrWallerandMrMoss
Photography/artGCSEclub3:20-4:30pmC5with MissSellars
Y9-11DanceClubintheWheeldonHall
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MissBonsall Basketball(allyears)inthesportshallwithMr Briddon Y9-11sciencedemoclubat1.10pminS3with MrAtkins GCSEmathsrevisionwithMrMoss
LGBT+groupS6withDrToutandMissPaley Y9/10/11fitnessclubinthesportshallwithMr Waller Y7-11netballonthecourtswithMrsWildgoose SixthformmathsdropinwithMrMossandMrs Brown WindBandinthe6thFormCanteen Friday Gardeningclub(allyears)inS1 Y9-11sportsleadersinthesportshallwith MrsAllenandMissPaley
Dungeonsanddragonsclub,Y9-11inC8withMiss Poundall
Homeworkclub(allyears)inH4
DukeofEdinburghwithMrsWildgoose
Homeworkclub(allyears)inH4
GCSEBusinessdrop-ininH4
Careers,College&ApprenticeshipNews
Careers Information Resources
Careers information, apprenticeship vacancies and higher education information can be found on the webpage under Students-Work Experience and Careers. http://www.highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk/students/work-experience-careers/
Careers inspiration and advice from BBC Bitesize
Explore BBC Bitesize’s brand new collection of free, online careers resources offering a wealth of inspiration and advice for students.
This new resources offer a rich collection of case studies across a wide range of sectors, linking curriculum subjects and the world of work: https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/careers
Unifrog Careers programme
The careers programme ‘Unifrog’ offers students careers advice, support and guidance and students. Students in years 10 and 11 will be given log on details during the year to access Unifrog. www.unifrog.org
Online careers programme for 11-18 year olds
START is an online careers programme designed to connect 11-18 year olds with their future career potential.
Theprogrammeisbrokendownintosectionson‘worldofwork’withajobsearchaccordingtosubject, 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 onworkexperience,workpreparationincludingCVwriting,coveringlettersandinterviewpreparation. There is also the facility for students to upload their personal statement and CV, so they can start to build their own careers profile.
Students will begiven their student code duringthe year tobe able toaccess the programme athome via the website (www.startprofile.com).
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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 forSchoolshasa free mobileappthat providesa one-stopshopfor 11-25-year-olds forselfled 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.
Freeaccessto inspiring podcasts,broadcastsandshortfilms byheadsofindustryandhigh-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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Apprenticeshipopportunities
Government Economic Service Degree Apprenticeships
The Government Economic Service Degree Apprenticeship is a unique opportunity to work on important issues our country faces, whilst studying an economics degree – click the link for further information: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-government-economic-service-degree-levelapprenticeship
Apprenticeship opportunities at Fujitsu
Fujitsu are offering apprenticeship opportunities through the Early Careers section of their website –clickthelinkforopportunitiesofacareeratFujitsu-https://www.fujitsu.com/uk/about/careers/earlycareers/
National Apprenticeship Week 2023
NationalApprenticesWeektakesplacebetween6-12February2023. Throughout the week top employers and organisations come together to showcase their opportunities to thousands of attendees who are actively seeking an apprenticeship.
For full details visit: https://nationalapprenticeshipweek.co.uk/
Finding an apprenticeship
Full details of apprenticeships available can be accessed through the government website on the following link - https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship
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Studentinformation
School to home communication
All students have a school email account and should check this regularly as well as Show My Homework (checking Monday to Friday during the school term) for the latest updates and homework.
School Website / VLE
Resources are available on the school website www.highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Students can access ‘all users’ from home from the Highfields School website: Go to Highfields School homepage Click on ‘portals’ Click on ‘student portal’ Enter school IT username (not email address) and password Find ‘all users Starkholmes’ or ‘all users Lumsdale’ on the right hand side Select the appropriate department/folder required.
If students have forgotten their password please email reset@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk specifying your username and tutor group to request a new password.
Show My Homework online homework submission guidance
Students should be submitting work through the SMHW platform.
The link below is from SMHW and explains how to do this or you can follow the steps below: https://help.teamsatchel.com/en/articles/2912000-submitting-my-work-online
Free Microsoft Office for Students
Students at Highfields School can download Microsoft Office for free on up to five devices, for the duration of their time as a student at the school.
Microsoft Office can be installed on compatible desktop computers, tablets, and mobile phones: https://www.highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk/students/office-for-students/
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HighfieldsSchooluniform
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 atHighfieldsSchool. Staffperformavarietyofuniformchecksandweaskthatparents/carerssupport 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.
TrutexDirectandKickOffSportboth stockHighfields uniform. Kick OffSport also stocktheHighfields PE kit. Orders can be placed on line both with Trutex Direct (https://www.trutex.com/) and Kick Off Sport (https://www.kickoffsport.co.uk/) if you know the size and items required without the need to visit a store directly. To assist with purchasing the right sizes Kick Off Sport have produced a size guide (see links below).
Various information has been prepared on our school uniform and can be accessed on the links below or from the school website:
FAQs:
Uniform size guide: https://www.highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/UniformSizeGuide.pdf
Please also refer to guidance for footwear for our new all-weather pitch: https://www.highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk/wpcontent/uploads/2021/08/FootballFoundationFootwear.pdf
The National Hereditary Breast Cancer Helpline shop of Firs Parade in Matlock take donations of Highfields School uniform.
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Communitynews
Active Dales: Fun Run volunteers wanted
Derbyshire Dales District Council are looking for volunteers to assist with the marshalling at the following fun run events (two hours per event):
21 January (Saturday) – Hall Leys Park, Matlock
11 February (Saturday) – The National Stone Centre, Wirksworth
11 March (Saturday) – Bakewell Recreation Ground
There will be a 9am briefing for volunteers and the race will start at 10am until 11am.
5 April (Wednesday in Easter Holidays) – Ashbourne Recreation Ground
There will be a briefing at 8.30am for volunteers and the race will start at 9.30am until 10.30am.
If you could spare two hours of time to help at any of the above events, please contact Alan McGill, Club & Participation Development Officer at Derbyshire Dales District Council on 01629 761380.
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Supportandresourcesavailable
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 notalso entitledto WorkingTax Creditand havean annualgross 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 - 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.
HighfieldsSchool Issue14: 13 January2023 Newsletter Bethebestyoucan - 28 -
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.
HighfieldsSchool Issue14: 13 January2023 Newsletter Bethebestyoucan - 29 -
Voluntary Sector & Community Services for Children, Young People & Families
ProducedbyChesterfieldRoyalHospital
DerbyshireAutism 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:01773741 221
Fairplay
www.fair-play.co.uk
A charity based in central Chesterfield, providing services across North Derbyshire, including play schemes,youthclubs,activitydays,independentlivingsupportandhomebasedsupporttoindividuals aged between 0 and 25 with disabilities and additional needs, and their families.
Telephone:01246203963
AutismEastMidlands FamilyHub 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:01909506678
DerbyshireInformation,Advice andSupportService (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:01629533660
UmbrellaDerbyshire 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:01332785658
NationalAutisticSocietyDerbyandDistrictBranch
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:07500089571
Email:derbyanddistrict@nas.org.uk
HighfieldsSchool Issue14: 13 January2023 Newsletter Bethebestyoucan - 30 -
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:01629533190
AutismLinks SupportGroup www.autismlinks.co.uk/support-groups
A website full of useful links to local support groups, charities and specialist services all in one place.
EqualStrands
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
DerbyshireCareers Association www.derbyshirecarers.co.uk
Provide support, advice, information and representation for carers in Derbyshire, and hold support groups. Telephone:01773833833
DerbyshireParent CarerVoice 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:01629533666
AutismWestMidlands www.autismwestmidlands.org.uk Theirwebsiteprovidesresourcesforfamiliesandprofessionals.Theservicealsoofferstrainingto
NationalAutisticSociety 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:02078332299
HighfieldsSchool Issue14: 13 January2023 Newsletter Bethebestyoucan - 31 -
Informative Websites and Links
parentsandprofessionals,holdseventsandactivitiesandsupportsfamiliesintheWestMidlands. Telephone:01214507582
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 8003333
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.
YoungMinds 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
AutismEye
www.autismeye.com
An online based magazine informing parents and professionals on the latest research and news on Autism. Online subscription is free.
TheChildren’s SleepCharity www.thechildrenssleepcharity.org.uk
Provides families and professionals with support and training on supporting children with sleep issues.
HighfieldsSchool Issue14: 13 January2023 Newsletter Bethebestyoucan - 32 -
Communicationwithschool–contactdetails
Generalenquiries
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.
Subjectspecificenquiry(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&sicknessabsence
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:
Lowerschoolsite (Starkholmes)- to contact year managers for years 7 or 8:
Mr Allsobrook - Year Manager (year 7)
Email: callsobrook@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Mrs Green – Year Manager (year 8)
Email: tgreen@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Direct line: 01629 832314 or ext 244
Direct line: 01629 832313 or ext 235
Upperschoolsite (Lumsdale)- to contact year managers for years 9 to 13:
Miss Esposito – Year Manager (year 9)
Email: aesposito@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Mr Tidmarsh - Year Manager (year 10) Email: dtidmarsh@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Mrs Weightman Edge - Year Manager (year 11)
Email: hweightman-edge@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Mrs Sargeant - Year Manager (sixth form)
Email: rsargeant@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Generalemailcontacts
Direct line: 01629 832348 or ext 364
Direct line: 01629 832329 or ext 111
Direct line: 01629 832345 or ext 159
Direct line: 01629 832389 or ext 165
General email: info@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Admissions: admissions@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Chair of Governors: chair@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
SENCO: mhodkin@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Careers information: careers@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Yourcontactdetails
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.
HighfieldsSchool Issue14: 13 January2023 Newsletter Bethebestyoucan - 35 -
KeyStafffor2022-23
Headteacher: Mr A Marsh
Deputy Headteacher: Mr P R Cole
Assistant Headteachers: Mrs C Rifkin Mr M Hodkin
Directors of Catch-up Mrs C Morgan (Curriculum) Mr G Roberts (Engagement)
Heads of Year: Year 7 Mrs A Ruston Year 8 Miss J Hughes Year 9 Mrs A Hollinrake / Mrs L Redhead Year 10 Mr K Rodgers Year 11 Mr A Bishton Sixth form Mr M Flett
Year Managers: Year 7 Mr Allsobrook Year 8 Mrs Green Year 9 Miss Esposito Year 10 Mr Tidmarsh Year 11 Mrs Weightman Edge Sixth form Mrs R Sargeant Ifyouwishtoreportstudentabsences,pleasecontacttherelevantpastoralstafftoyour son/daughter’syeargroupasindicatedabove.
HighfieldsSchool Issue14: 13 January2023 Newsletter Bethebestyoucan - 36 -
Department Contacts: Art – Mrs K Fairbank Maths – Mrs R Brown Business – Mr I Lovatt ModernForeignLanguages – Mrs M Bowen Computing – Mr C Davies Music – Mr K Rowley D&T – Mrs C Hakin PE – Mr C Shirtcliffe Drama&Dance – Miss Bonsall Psychology – Miss H Ould English – Mrs H Key PRS – Mr R Platts Film Studies – Mr C Warrington SENCO – Mr M Hodkin Geography – Mrs M Barker Science – Mr R Atkins History – Mr P Copeland Sociology – Mrs A Llewellyn
HighfieldsSchoolGoverningBoard2022-23
Highfields School is fortunate in thekindsofpeople who havevolunteeredto become governors, each bringing a variety of skills and experience to support the school.
The composition of the governing board is made up of community, parent and staff governors each serving a four year term of office.
Name Governor Type LinkGovernor Area
Mr Rob Atkinson ChairofGovernors Community Leadership and strategy
Mr Paul Steeples Vice ChairofGovernors Community -
Mrs Allison Beesley Community -
Miss Joanne Coe Parent
Safeguarding (H&S, wellbeing)
Ms Tina Fisher Community -
Mrs Amanda Goodall Community -
Miss Emma Hill Community Inclusion (SEND, behaviour, attendance)
Mr Dennis Holmes Parent Finance, resources and personnel Eco School committee link
Mr Andrew Marsh Headteacher -
Ms Deborah O’Donovan Community -
Mrs Selina Rodgers Parent Curriculum and standards
Dr Ewen Ross Parent -
Mr Duncan Whittam CommunityMr Mark Webb Staff -
Highfields governing board has a strong focus on three core strategic functions: ensuring clarity of vision, ethos and strategic direction holdingtheheadteachertoaccountfortheeducationalperformanceoftheschoolanditsstudents, 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/
HighfieldsSchool Issue14: 13 January2023 Newsletter Bethebestyoucan - 37 -
Y13parentsevening(4-7pm)
Tuesday15November2022,4-7pm(sixthformarea) Y12parentsevening(4-7pm) Tuesday29November2022,4-7pm(sixthformarea) Y9parentsevening(4-7pm)
Y11parentsevening(4-7pm)
Y8parentsevening(4-7pm)
Y10parentsevening(4-7pm) virtual
SuccessintheSixthFormevening
PTFAnewparentsocial
Y6openevening
Tuesday17January2023,4-7pm(viaSchoolCloud/Weduc)
Tuesday31January2023,4-7pm(viaSchoolCloud/Weduc)
Tuesday14February2023,4-7pm(viaSchoolCloud/Weduc)
Tuesday7March2023,4-7pm(viaSchoolCloud/Weduc)
Tuesday13September2022,7pmWheeldonHall,Lumsdale
Wednesday14September2022,6.30pmDesignate,Matlock
Wednesday21September2022,6pmWheeldonHall,Lumsdale
ApprenticeshipseveningforY12/13 Tuesday11October2022,7pmWheeldonHall,Lumsdale
PTFAAGM
HalloweenMovieNightforY7/8
Sixthformopenevening
Wednesday19October2022,6pmLumsdale
Monday31October2022,4-6pmBowlerHall,Starkholmes
Thursday10November2022,7pmWheeldonHall,Lumsdale
Monday21November–Friday2December2022(sportshall) Y13mockexams(1) Monday28November–Friday9December2022(sportshall)
Y11mockexams(1)
ChristmasConcert
ChristmasdiscoforY7/8
Wednesday14December2022,7-10pm,WheeldonHall, Lumsdale
Thursday15December2022,7-9pmBowlerHall,Starkholmes
Wednesday21December2022,7pmWheeldonHall,Lumsdale Y9virtualoptionsevening Wednesday11January2022– twosessions6pm/7pm(virtual) Y7,8&9Fluimmunisationsessions(NHSteam) Thursday19January2022(bothsitesduringtheschoolday) EveningofTheatre(7-10pm)
ALevelcertificatesevening
Monday27February–Friday10March2023,SportsHall Y13mockexams(2)
Monday27February–Friday10March2023,SportsHall
HighfieldsSchool Issue14: 13 January2023 Newsletter Bethebestyoucan - 38Keydates Pleasenoteallcalendardatesareprovisionalatthisstageandarecorrectasof1September2022. 2022-23academic year CPDdays(no studentsin school) Term1: 1September2022to21October2022 Thursday1September2022 Term2: 31October2022to22December2022 Friday21October2022 Term3: 9January2023to17February2023 Monday5December2022 Term4: 27February2023to31March2023 Thursday22December2022 Term5: 17April2023to26May2023 Friday30June2023 Term6: 5June2023to21July2023 2022-23parentconsultationevenings
virtual
virtual
virtual
provisional schoolevents (further details will be issued prior to each event)
Y7parentsevening(4-7pm) virtual Tuesday21March2023,4-7pm(viaSchoolCloud/Weduc) 2022-23
Wednesday25JanuaryandThursday26January2023,7pm BowlerHall,Starkholmes Y9immunisations-TDP&MenACWY
Tuesday7February2023,Lumsdale Y11mockinterviews Thursday16February2023(duringschoolday) Y11mockexams(2)
Y9Healthday
EasterConcert
Y8/Y9immunisations-HPV
Y10internalexams
SportsLeadersAwardsEvening
GCSEs/Alevelexamseriesbegins
Y7endofyearinternalexams
Y12mockexams
Y8endofyearinternalexams
Y9internalexams
NewY12inductionsessions
Y13Prom
Y10workexperience
Friday3February2023(duringschoolday)
Wednesday29March2023,7-10pmWheeldonHall,Lumsdale
Tuesday25April2023,bothsites
Tuesday2May–Friday12May2023,SportsHall
Thursday11May2023,6-8pmWheeldonHall,Lumsdale
Monday15May2023,SportsHall
Monday5June–Friday9June2023
Monday5June–Friday16June2023,SportsHall
Monday12June–Friday16June2023
Monday26June–Thursday29June2023
Tuesday27June–Wednesday28June2023
Thursday29June2023,7pm
Monday3July–Friday7July2023
2022-23provisionalschoolevents (cont/…)
Y6visitStarkholmes
Wednesday5July2023,Starkholmes
Y7sponsoredwalk Wednesday5July2023
Y8visitLumsdale
Wednesday5July2023,Lumsdale
Y9enterpriseday Wednesday5July2023,Lumsdale
Y6parents'evening
Wednesday5July2023,6pmBowlerHall,Starkholmes
Wholeschoolsportsday Friday7July2023
SchoolMusical(7.30-10pm)
2023 exam resultsdays (provisional tbc):
A Level exam results: 17August2023tbc
Wednesday12July-Saturday15July2023,WheeldonHall, Lumsdale
GCSE examresults: 24August2023tbc
School day: Start Finish Start Finish Start Finish
FormTime 08:45 09:05 Period3 11:10 12:00 Period5 13:40 14:30
Period1 09:05 09:55 Period4 12:00 12:50 Period6 14:30 15:20 Period2 09:55 10:45 Lunch 12:50 13:40 TutorialY11-13 15:20 15:30 Break 10:45 11:10
Additional Bank Holiday – May 2023
There will be an additional bank holiday on Monday 8 May 2023 in honour of the coronation of King Charles III and school will be closed on this day.
School is closed to students on the following CPD days:
Monday 4 September 2023
Friday 27 October 2023
Monday 4 December 2023
Friday 22 December 2023
Friday 5 July 2024
HighfieldsSchool Issue14: 13 January2023 Newsletter Bethebestyoucan - 39 -
6
8
26
15
3
2023-24 academic year and CPD days: The term dates for the next academic year are:
4 September 2023 to 27 October 2023
November 2023 to 22 December 2023
January 2024 to 16 February 2024
February 2024 to 28 March 2024
April 2024 to 24 May 2024
June 2024 to 23 July 2024