Highfields School Newsletter Highfields School
Issue 15: 21 December 2018
Newsletter
2018-19
Issue 15: 21 December 2018
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.
A Marsh Headteacher
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 15: 21 December 2018
Newsletter
Contents: Message from the headteacher .................................................................. 3 Student Bulletin ......................................................................................... 4 Parent/Carer Notices .................................................................................. 5
Year 9 parent/carers................................................................................................ 5
Mental health workshops ......................................................................................... 6
Student Parliament survey on uniform for September 2019........................................ 6
Two new parent governors join Highfields Governing Board ....................................... 7
Term 3 ................................................................................................................... 8
School News ............................................................................................. 9
Highfields Christmas Concert.................................................................................... 9
Derbyshire Carers Association Celebration Christmas Service ................................... 10
Generous donation enables 3D-printing at Highfields ............................................... 11
Year 7 students get excited about books at The Reading Show ................................ 12
Sports Leaders News ............................................................................... 13 Sports Update ......................................................................................... 13 Careers, College & Apprenticeship News ................................................... 14
Careers/Employability help ..................................................................................... 14
Resources ............................................................................................................. 14
Online careers programme for 11-18 year olds ........................................................ 14
School Meals ........................................................................................... 15 Extra-curricular Clubs & Activities ............................................................. 17
School club notices ................................................................................................ 19
Book club recommendations .................................................................................. 20
Highfields School Governing Board 2018-19 .............................................. 21 Highfields School Contact details .............................................................. 22 Key Staff for 2018-19 .............................................................................. 23 Key Dates 2018-19 .................................................................................. 24
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 15: 21 December 2018
Newsletter Message from the headteacher I came across an interesting discussion between some students in year 7 (may have been 8) last week. One student was frustrated at the over commercialisation of Christmas but undermined her own argument a little when she claimed it should be brought back to focus on the ‘birth of Santa’. Obviously, she immediately corrected herself but it’s nice to know that even Highfields students can make errors. Ten lessons visited this week. I was focusing on sixth form and so highlights included an A level maths lesson where students intensely focused on solving some problems to do with discrete random variables (it’s not as simple as it sounds) and an A level sociology lesson on theories of the family which was totally fascinating. In both lessons the teachers were quickly able to tell me who they judged to be a SARU (student at risk of underachievement) and the longer I stayed in the lesson, the more I could see how they were focusing any extra questions and support towards those students. In the books of these students I was not surprised that the teachers had gone out of their way to offer really clear feedback and in most cases this had inspired a response from the student which suggested that they had moved forward in their understanding. Outside of lessons I saw a sixth form assembly where a mass attempt to sing the Twelve Days of Christmas went badly wrong: I was about to call the riot police when Mrs Cruise regained control. I was also on the SLT team (which lost) at the quiz night organised by sixth form in aid of Helen’s Trust and on the staff football team (which lost) against the sixth formers. Thanks to any staff member/sixth former who facilitates these wonderful opportunities. Please try and facilitate my being on the winning team sometime soon. I hope that you are making preparations for a lovely family Christmas. My family made the decision to rent a house so that we can all (nineteen of us) be together over the festive period. What seemed like a good idea at the time now seems like a set up for a whodunit. Part of my job, however, requires that I know some of the details around staff and students’ families who are facing very difficult times. I can assure these families that they will be very much in my thoughts over Christmas and I hope that they manage to get through what can be a challenging period when things are not going well or when a loved one has been lost. I’m expecting January to July to be more challenging than September to December. This is because we now have to embed and see through the improvement priorities which we have formerly identified. Improvement is rarely secured without concerted effort, but I’m convinced that after a brief rest in port HMS Highfields will set sail again in January with its precious cargo destined for great things. Steady as she goes and seasonal greetings to all! Mr Marsh Headteacher
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 15: 21 December 2018
Newsletter Student Bulletin
Friday 21 December School holiday until Monday 7 January 2019
Monday 8.40am Year 8 assembly 8.40am Sixth form assembly Year 11 engineering controlled assessments during lessons (7.1.19-12.4.19) Year 11 art exam papers issued/preparation in lessons until 1.4.19
Tuesday 8.40am Year 7 assembly 8.40am Year 9 assembly
Wednesday 8.40am Year 10 assembly 9am-3.30pm year 11 dance – duet/trio (performing arts, Starkholmes)
Thursday 8.40am Year 11 assembly
Friday 8.40am Year 11 assembly (boys) See section on extra-curricular clubs for lunch and after school activities
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 15: 21 December 2018
Newsletter Parent/Carer Notices Year 9 parent/carers A reminder of important dates in the calendar for year 9 students over the coming months:
Week commencing 14 January 2019 - reports will be sent home with students Tuesday 22 January 2019 – parents’ consultation and options information evening Week commencing 25 March 2019 – data sheets will be sent home with students Week commencing 1 April - 8 April 2019 – Year 9 exams in sports hall Week commencing 17 June 2019 – data sheets will be sent home with students
Progress information - a detailed report and two data sheets will be sent home for year 9 students throughout the year to ensure that you receive regular, useful information regarding your child’s progress. Parents’ consultation & options evening - It is crucial that parents/carers attend the parent consultation and options evening in January as key information about the options process will be available to enable you to guide your son / daughter in making their choices. Options information will start to come home in January and week commencing 14 January students will be given an options booklet to explain the process and choices.
Parent consultation appointments - the year 9 parent consultation evening takes place from 4pm-6.45pm on 22 January 2019 for parent consultation appointments in the sports hall. Students will be reminded during assembly in the first week back to make appointments with subject teachers. Appointment slips will be available from the pastoral hub.
Options presentations - options presentations will take place in the Wheeldon Hall at 4pm and 6pm (this is the same presentation available at two points during the evening). Year 9 students will be given an outline of the options process during assemblies in the New Year and will receive their options booklet to start to think about their subject choices. The Key Stage 4 curriculum booklet will be issued electronically to year 9 parents/carers and uploaded to the school website in the New Year (paper copies will be available to collect during the year 9 options evening if required, following the presentation). The booklet includes details of the option process as well as descriptions of all courses available to students starting year 10 in September 2019.
Careers advice - Phil Nelson, the school’s Independent Careers Advisor, will be available during the year 9 evening to talk to parents/carers and students. Phil will be able to provide any guidance with option choices and future career choices. His desk will be situated in the sports hall as part of the parent consultation evening.
Year 9 is an important year - students have started GSCE work in English, maths and science. It is important that we have high expectations of the students in all subjects up until the end of year 9, even in subjects that they think they will not be continuing with in year 10. This is important as subject choices can change and I don’t want students to have closed any doors for themselves. Miss Hughes
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 15: 21 December 2018
Newsletter Mental health workshops During PSHE lessons year 9 students have been involved in two invaluable mental health workshops delivered by Derbyshire Community Mental Health nurses and ex-student Kim Robinson. The main messages to fight your anxieties were:
to talk to someone you trust take time out look after your physical health
Student Parliament survey on uniform for September 2019 - What do you think? Thank you to everyone who has given feedback to the Student Parliament uniform survey. If you have not already responded there is still time – the survey closes on 7 January 2019 at 5pm. Please complete the survey emailed to you and let us know what you think. Many thanks. Fred and Tyga Co-Directors of Student Parliament
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 15: 21 December 2018
Newsletter Two new parent governors join Highfields Governing Board Governors are delighted to announce that two new parent governors will join the Governing Board on 17 January 2019. They are Angeline Ellson (child in year 8) and Peter Hooper (child in year 9). Angeline Ellson lives in Matlock and was a pupil at Highfields herself. She currently works for the University of Derby as Head of Strategic Projects where she is leading a university-wide transformation programme. In a previous role she led the University’s School and College Outreach Team. With regard to skills which the Board are seeking, she says “In my current role I have wide experience of project management and ensuring clarity of strategic direction.” Angeline is passionate about the opportunities which education of all types can open up. Peter Hooper is a former Headteacher of a local primary school who knows the local issues, challenges and opportunities well. He is concerned to make sure that all children, whatever their starting point, have the very best chances to succeed academically, creatively and in sports. Peter now works at Sheffield Hallam University in the Institute of Education, training the next generation of teachers across the region, so has close links with a wide variety of schools and a good understanding of what best practice looks like. Peter says, “I know that the leadership and staff of Highfields work tirelessly to develop the school and would welcome the opportunity to support and challenge them in doing this.” Governors look forward to welcoming Angeline and Peter to the Board in the New Year. We’d also like to take this opportunity to wish all parents/carers, staff and students the warmest Season’s Greetings! Helen Crane Chair of Governors
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 15: 21 December 2018
Newsletter Term 3: 7 January to 15 February 2019 We look forward to welcoming students back to school at 8.40am on Monday 7 January 2019.
Tuesday 22 January 2019
Year 9 options and parent consultation evening – 4.00-7.00pm in the Wheeldon Hall & sports hall
Wednesday 23 and Thursday 24 January 2019 Evening of Theatre - 7pm in the Bowler Hall, Starkholmes
Tuesday 5 February 2019
Year 11 parent consultation evening - 4.00-7.00pm in the sports hall at Lumsdale
Wednesday 13 February 2019
Highfields Got Talent – 7pm (tbc) in the Bowler Hall at Starkholmes
Highfields School – an evening of theatre
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 15: 21 December 2018
Newsletter School News Highfields Christmas Concert Some of Highfields’ brightest and best talent took to the stage on Tuesday 11 December to showcase their musical skills. The sell-out event saw youngsters performing in a number of ensembles and styles including choirs, jazz groups, wind band and an ever increasing number of studentled groups - most notably by year 13 music students. There were some stand out performances by seasoned veterans and relative newcomers alike - most notably Ella’s performance of Beethoven’s Piano Sonata 1 in F minor Op. 2 (fresh from her successfully gaining 140/150 in her grade 8 piano) and Dan on trombone, again sharing similar success in his grade 5 performance exam. The evening was a diverse look at the musical personality of the school, where showtunes and film scores nestled between rock band ‘Powersurge’ and their performance of ‘Back in Black’ by AC/DC, which truly brought the house down. The concert culminated in a performance of ‘Oh Holy Night’ by the Highfields mixed staff and student choir, rehearsed and directed by Highfields’ wonderful peripatetic staff. On behalf of the music department at Highfields I would like to wish all a very merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year! Mr Rowley Head of Music
Photographs taken by Olivia (year 11)
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 15: 21 December 2018
Newsletter Derbyshire Carers Association Celebration Christmas Service On Thursday 13 December, 60 members of the Highfields junior and senior choir, plus accomplished soloists Sam, Daniel, Daisy, Laura and percussionists Billy and Miles headed to the Crooked Spire in Chesterfield to perform at the Derbyshire Carers Association Celebration Christmas Service. The choirs and soloists performed a range of pieces from Leontovych’s traditional Carol of the Bells to Pasek and Paul’s This is me and Million Dreams from The Greatest Showman. For the final two numbers of the service, the junior and senior choirs we’re joined by over 50 primary school children from Sharley Park Community Primary School in Danesmoor. They performed as a massed choir, accompanied by Mr Rowley and students Sam, Billy and Miles with such precision and energy which was well received by the carers, their loved ones and the dignitaries alike. The choirs were directed by music teacher Mrs Morris. Mrs Morris was incredibly proud of all the students on the day as she watched members of the congregation be brought to tears by the performances from Highfields students. In addition to the carers and their loved ones, the service was attended by The Duke of Devonshire, Mayor of Chesterfield, other local Mayors and the High Sheriff alongside other dignitaries, who all took the time to congratulate the students on their musical success. The Mayor of Chesterfield commented that he had attended many musical events but said that “The choirs and soloists I have seen today are outstanding, of all the children and adult choirs I have seen these are definitely some of the best”. Mrs Morris
Photographs taken by ex-Highfields student, Emily
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 15: 21 December 2018
Newsletter Generous donation enables 3D-printing at Highfields Highfields’ technology and engineering department would like to thank KF Accounting Services for their generous donation that enabled us to purchase a second 3D-printer for the department. Up until now, 3D printing has been primarily reserved for the sixth form, due to the slow speed of printing parts. With a second machine, we can now extend its use into years 10 and 11 for project work and controlled assessment projects. As funding in schools becomes more and more squeezed, it is such a benefit to get this type of support from the community, enabling many more of our students to experience accessible modern technology that otherwise would not be possible.
Y13 students commissioning the new 3D-printer
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 15: 21 December 2018
Newsletter Year 7 students get excited about books at The Reading Show Award-winning children’s authors Alan Gibbons and Andy Seed visited lower school last week to entertain and inspire year 7 students with ‘The Reading Show’. Their performance featured sketches, book recommendations, poems, jokes, riddles and even a world-record attempt, all with the aim of encouraging the students to read books for pleasure. Authors Alan and Andy, who have both won the coveted Blue Peter Book Award, introduced year 7 students to an exciting range of stories and non-fiction in a way that captured the interest of even the most reluctant reader. It was interactive, fast, fun and inspiring. This is just part of a range of initiatives designed to encourage lower school students to turn to reading as a leisure activity. Research proves time and again that reading books, regularly, for pleasure, improves students’ performance across many academic subjects. There is a difference in reading ability equivalent to more than a year’s schooling between young people who never read for enjoyment and those who read for thirty minutes per day. Reading also has a positive impact on mental health and has been linked not only to a reduction in symptoms of depression, but even a decreased likelihood of developing dementia later in life. Students enjoyed the opportunity to buy books signed by the authors. Books written and recommended by Alan and Andy are all available to borrow from the school library and have been flying off the shelves since the authors’ visit. After the event the authors contacted the school to thank the students for their excellent behaviour and huge enthusiasm. “What a lovely morning. For the third year on the run, the wonderful young people and staff at Highfields made us feel at home,” commented Alan Gibbons. “The students were thoroughly engaged and laughed at all the right places and their behaviour was exemplary. A reading child is a successful child ... the fantastic book sales demonstrated that Highfields has a vibrant reading culture.”
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 15: 21 December 2018
Newsletter Sports Leaders News Mrs Allen (School Sports Co-ordinator) Our Sports Leaders and Sports Apprentices will be extremely busy supporting sporting activities not only in school, but also within our partner primary schools and across the wider community. Further information on Sports Leadership can be found on the school website: http://www.highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk/SportsLeadership.html
Sports leaders update: PE apprentice update On Monday 17 December PE apprentices, Miss Tabbenor, Mr Hill and Mr Edenbrow attended a training course for inclusive sport in Cannock. They will bring back ideas to support their delivery in the SEN department around PE.
Voice of Sport Friday 21 December was the final Voice of Sport group meeting for 2018 where they discussed plans for 2019.
Sports Update Mr C Shirtcliffe (Head of PE)
Fixtures: Wednesday 9 January 2019 The cancelled Year 10 rugby match has been rescheduled for Wednesday 9 January away at King Edwards VII in Sheffield at 2.30pm, returning approximately 5pm – Mr Shirtcliffe will confirm details with students.
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 15: 21 December 2018
Newsletter Careers, College & Apprenticeship News Careers Information
Careers/Employability help If you feel that you can offer your services to school with regard to Careers/Employability please contact the school via email careers@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
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/careers.html
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 (startprofile.com) with the student code they have been issued with – see Mrs Turner for further details.
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 15: 21 December 2018
Newsletter School Meals Monday 7 January – Friday 11 January 2019 Week 2 winter menu Monday
Mains
Big breakfast, vegetarian breakfast
Sides
Hash brown, selection of breads
Veg & salads
Salad selection, mushrooms, baked beans
Desserts
Syrup sponge, Rosalie biscuit, choc crunch, fresh fruit, fruit yoghurts
Tuesday
Mains
Chicken & bacon pie, creamy vegetable bake
Sides
Creamed potatoes, selection of breads
Veg & Salads
Salad selection, sweetcorn & pea mix
Desserts
Ice cream peaches, chocolate beetroot muffin, oat cookie, fresh fruit, fruit yoghurts
Wednesday
Mains
Roast turkey & stuffing, crunchy vegetable crumble
Sides
Creamed potatoes, selection of breads
Veg & Salads
Salad selection, broccoli, carrots
Desserts
Apple & cinnamon crumble, forest fruit muffin, flapjack, fresh fruit, fruit yoghurts
Thursday
Mains
Chicken & vegetable tikka curry, Vegetable tikka curry
Sides
Naan, rice
Veg & Salads
Salad selection, sweetcorn, mixed vegetables
Desserts
Chocolate pear cake, melting moments, carrot cake muffin, fresh fruit, fruit yoghurts
Friday
Mains
Battered cod fillet, Quorn dippers with sweet & sour sauce
Sides
Chips, selection of breads
Veg & Salads
Salad selection, mushy peas, baked beans
Desserts
Fruit Paris sandwich, strawberry mouse, ginger biscuit, fresh fruit, fruit yoghurts
In addition to the options above, the following are available on a daily basis: Hot Snacks
Jacket Potatoes, Hot Paninis, Pasta Bar
Deli range
Protein/salad box, sandwiches/baguettes, deli rolls, wraps
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 15: 21 December 2018
Newsletter
Menu options available at morning break: Week 2 winter menu Monday
Tuesday
Bacon bap
Toast
Cold pasta pots
Bacon & egg cob
Teacakes
Sandwiches
Hot wraps
Yoghurt
Fresh fruit
Crumpets
Granola pots
Croissant
Bacon bap
Crumpets
Granola pots
Egg & bacon bap
Teacakes
Cold pasta pots
Filled naan
Wraps
Sandwiches
Toasted sandwiches
Yoghurt
Fresh fruit
Bacon bap
Homemade bread rolls
Cold pasta pots
Egg & bacon bap
Teacakes
Sandwiches
Pizza
Yoghurt
Fresh fruit
Toast
Granola Pots
Sausage bap
Teacakes
Cold pasta posts
Cheese on toast
Crumpet
Sandwiches
Toast
Yoghurt
Fresh fruit
Filled naan
Granola pots
Bacon bap
Homemade
Yoghurt
Bacon & egg bap
wholemeal roll
Granola pots
Homemade garlic
Crumpets
Cold pasta pots
bread
Toast
Sandwiches
Toasted sandwiches
Teacakes
Fresh fruit
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 15: 21 December 2018
Newsletter Extra-curricular Clubs & Activities Starkholmes (lower school site)
The following clubs will take place at Starkholmes. Further clubs will be added during the year and students will be made aware of the extra-curricular activities available to them. Time Lunch Lunch Lunch 1-1.30pm 3.30-4.45pm
Club Netball Y8 Sports Leaders Dance Club Science Club Rugby
Tuesday
Lunch 1.00pm
Football Junior Choir – Y7/8
Music
Mr Shirtcliffe Miss Morris
Wednesday
Lunch Lunch
Basketball Drama Club
PArts Mob
Miss Warburton Miss Wright
Thursday
Lunch 1.00-1.40pm
Craft Club Y7-8 girls’ football with female coach Mini Musical (Lion King)
1A
Craft Club Sports Leaders Y7/Y8 book club (alternates) History drop in
1A
Monday
3.45-4.45pm
Friday
Lunch Lunch 1.15pm Lunch
Be the best you can
Room
PArts Mob Lab 1
PArts Mob
Member of staff Mrs Wildgoose Mrs Turner Mrs Redhead Science staff Mr Johnston
Mrs Boothby Miss Warburton/ female coach Miss Bonsall
Library
Mrs Boothby Mr Moss L Robinson
HMob
R Morley
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Highfields School
Issue 15: 21 December 2018
Newsletter
Extra-curricular Clubs & Activities Lumsdale (upper school site) The following clubs will take place at Lumsdale. Further clubs will be added, and students will be made aware of the extra-curricular activities available to them.
Monday
Time Lunch Lunch
Club Basketball GCSE Drama Catch Up
1.00pm
Y9-11 girls football club with female coach Rugby
3.30pm
Room P1
Member of staff Mr Johnston Miss Bonsall/ Mrs Rifkin Mr Shirtcliffe/ female coach Mr Shirtcliffe/ Mrs Bowen Miss Morris
3.45pm
Senior Choir Y9-13 female students/staff
Music room
Tuesday
Lunch
GCSE Drama Catch Up
P1
Miss Bonsall
Wednesday
1.00pm 1.10pm 3.30pm 3.45pm
Sports hall P1
Mrs Allen Miss Bonsall Sixth form Mrs Allen/Mrs Turner
4-5pm
Sports leaders Musical Theatre Club Dance Club Sports Leaders Primary Evening Warhammer Club
C5
Mr Crawford
Thursday
Lunch Lunch 1.00pm
KS4 Football GCSE Dance Catch Up Upper school book club
P1 Library
Mr Shirtcliffe Ms Petch Student led
Friday
1.00pm
Badminton/table tennis
1.00pm
SEN Sports Club
1.00pm- Board games and Chess Club 1.45pm Lunch A Level Catch Up (Drama/Dance)
Be the best you can
Sports Hall Sports Hall E4
Mr Shirtcliffe
P1
Miss Bonsall/ Miss Wright
Mrs Allen/Mrs Turner /Apprentices Mr Key
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Highfields School Newsletter
Be the best you can
Issue 15: 21 December 2018
SCHOOL CLUB NOTICES
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Highfields School
Issue 15: 21 December 2018
Newsletter
BOOK CLUB RECOMMENDATIONS This week’s school book club recommendation is ‘Chaos Walking’ by Patrick Ness. This book has good characters, very good writing, great enemies and an interesting plot. Jacob (year 10)
Previous recommendations: ‘Black Butler’ Adam (year 10)
‘The Astounding Broccoli Boy’ - James (year 10)
‘A Boy Called Christmas’ - Alice (year 9)
‘Yu-Gi-Oh’ - Neil (year 10)
‘Eragon’ - Rhianna (year 9)
‘The Tales of Beedle the Bard’ – Courtney (year 9)
‘Biscuit Barrel’ - Charlotte (year 7)
‘The Hobbit’ – Alex (year 9)
‘Cirque du Freak’ – Aiden (year 8)
‘Unwind’ – Finley (year 9)
‘Wonder’ – Andrew (year 10)
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 15: 21 December 2018
Newsletter Highfields School Governing Board 2018-19 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 for 2018-19 is split as follows. Each governor serves a term of office of four years. Name Mr Andrew Marsh
Governor Type Headteacher
Responsibility
Jon Clarke
Local Authority
Ms Helen Crane
Co-opted
Mr Tim Diggle Ms Julie Lane
Co-opted Co-opted
Miss Rebekah Mitchell Miss Jodie Rogers
Co-opted Co-opted
SEN Link Governor
Mr Paul Steeples Ms Lizzie Watt
Co-opted Co-opted
Vice-Chair of Governors Chair of Teaching & Learning Committee
Ms Julie Birtwistle Mr David Matthews Mr Nick Newberry
Parent Parent Parent
Human Resources and Health & Safety Safeguarding
Mr John Redhead
Staff
Chair of Governors Equalities Chair of Student & Community Links Committee Chair of Finance & Resources Committee Finance
Please visit the school website for full details of the Governing Body.
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 15: 21 December 2018
Newsletter Highfields School Contact details Communication with school General enquiries (reception) The first point of contact for parents/carers for general enquiries is reception. Reception staff will aim to help with queries or refer parents/carers to a member of staff who can. Pastoral enquiries (form tutor/pastoral manager) If parents/carers have any concerns about a student, we ask that they contact the form tutor or pastoral manager in the first instance either by email or telephone. If parents/carers wish to contact the school regarding attendance, the pastoral manager should be the first point of contact. If parents/carers feel enquiries have not been adequately addressed by the form tutor or pastoral manager, this can be followed-up with the relevant head of year. Subject specific enquiry (subject teacher) If parents/carers have subject specific enquiries, we ask that they contact the relevant subject teacher. If parents/carers feel enquiries have not been adequately addressed by the class teacher, this can be followed-up by the relevant head of department.
Main Contact Details Lower Site (Years 7 & 8): Telephone:
Starkholmes Road, Matlock, Derbyshire, DE4 3DD 01629 584020
Upper Site (Years 9-13): Telephone:
Upper Lumsdale, Matlock, Derbyshire, DE4 5NA 01629 581888
Website: General email:
www.highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk info@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk
Admissions: Chair of Governors: Newsletter feedback: Careers information:
admissions@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk chair@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.
Get Involved! We would love to hear from any parents/carers or members of the community who may be able to contribute to school life, for example talking to students about specialist area of work, supporting mock careers interviews, providing work placement opportunities etc. Your insights, involvement and support have been crucial to the successes of the school over time and we would like to build on our strengths and develop excellence across the school community. If you feel you may be able to contribute to the school in any way, please email us detailing the help you could offer at getinvolved@highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk – we would be very happy to hear from you.
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 15: 21 December 2018
Newsletter Key Staff for 2018-19 Headteacher: Mr A Marsh
Deputy Headteacher: Mr P R Cole
Assistant Headteachers: Mr D O’Reilly Mrs C Rifkin Mr M Hodkin
Associate Assistant Headteachers: Mr K Rodgers - Years 7 and 8 (based at Starkholmes) Miss N Gresswell - Years 9, 10 & 11 (based at Lumsdale) Mrs C Morgan – Curriculum and Timetabling
Heads of Year: Year 7 Year 8 Year 9 Year 10 Year 11 Sixth form
Mrs A Hollinrake / Mrs L Redhead Mrs A Ruston Miss J Hughes Mr J Redhead Miss L Hamrouge Mr M Flett
Pastoral: Mrs Green - Years 7 & 8 Mr Tidmarsh - Years 9, 10 & 11 Mrs Bumby - Sixth form
01629 584020 extension 244 01629 581888 extension 364 01629 581888 extension 165
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 & Computing – Mr I Lovatt Dance – Miss E Bonsall D&T – Miss A Morris Drama – Miss E Bonsall English – Mr R Key Film Studies – Mr C Warrington Geography – Mrs M Barker History – Mr R Hoben Maths – Miss S Wallhead
Be the best you can
Modern Foreign Languages – Mrs M Bowen Music – Mr K Rowley PE – Mr C Shirtcliffe Psychology – Miss H Ould PRS – Mrs S Blakesley PSHE/L2L – Mrs Turner SENCO – Mr M Hodkin Science – Mrs C Morgan Sociology – Mrs A Serjeant
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Highfields School
Issue 15: 21 December 2018
Newsletter Key Dates 2018-19 These dates are correct at the time of going to print. 2018-19 Academic Year:
2018-19 Bank Holidays (school closed):
Term 1 - 3 September 2018 to 26 October 2018
25 and 26 December 2018
Term Term Term Term Term
2 3 4 5 6
-
5 November 2018 to 21 December 2018 7 January 2019 to 15 February 2019 25 February 2019 to 12 April 2019 29 April 2019 to 24 May 2019 3 June 2019 to 22 July 2019
1 January 2019 19 April 2019 (Good Friday) 22 April 2019 (Easter Monday) 6 May 2019 27 May 2019 (spring bank holiday)
2018-19 CPD Days (school closed to students):
Monday 3 September 2018 Tuesday 4 September 2018 Monday 3 December 2018 Friday 5 July 2019 Monday 22 July 2019
2018-19 Parents’ Consultation Evenings:
Year 13: Year 12: Year 9: Year 11: Year 8: Year 10: Year 7:
Tuesday 20 November 2018 Tuesday 4 December 2018 Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday
22 January 2019 5 February 2019 26 February 2019 12 March 2019 2 April 2019
(including option choices for Year 10)
2018-19 School Events (further details will be issued prior to each event along with confirmation of times):
Y12 Success in the Sixth Form (for Y12 parents) Year 6 Open Afternoon & Evening Y7 Induction PTFA Annual General Meeting Lower school disco (years 7 and 8) Year 11 Information Evening Year 10 Curriculum Evening Sixth Form Open Evening Autism Interest Group evening Children in Need Extravaganza Christmas Concert Y13 Certificates Evening Evening of Theatre
Y12 DCC Road Safety Day Y8 Waste Watchers Highfields’ Got Talent Y10 Health Day Evening of Dance Y11 Study Skills/Revision Evening for parents Easter Concert Sports Leaders Awards Evening (by invitation) Y12 Higher Education Evening Y10 Work Experience Day Y10 Work Experience (2 weeks)
Be the best you can
Wednesday 12 September 2018 (7-8.30pm Wheeldon Hall) Wednesday 19 September 2018 (2-4pm both sites for tours) 6.30-8.30pm Starkholmes only for presentation and tours Tuesday 25 September 2018 (during the school day) Wednesday 26 September 2018 (during the school day) Wednesday 10 October 2018 (6.30pm Lumsdale, L6) Wednesday 24 October 2018 (7-9pm, Bowler Hall) Thursday 25 October 2018 (6.30pm Wheeldon Hall) Wednesday 7 November 2018 (6.30pm Wheeldon Hall) Monday 12 November 2018 (6-8.30pm Wheeldon Hall) Wednesday 14 November (6-8.30pm, Lumsdale) Thursday 15 November (4-9pm Wheeldon Hall) Tuesday 11 December 2018 (7-9pm Wheeldon Hall) Monday 17 December 2018 (7pm Wheeldon Hall)
Wednesday 23 January & Thursday 24 January 2019 (7pm Bowler Hall, Starkholmes) Tuesday 29 January 2019 (during school day) Thursday 7 February 2019 (Bowler Hall during school day) Wednesday 13 February 2019 (7pm tbc - Bowler Hall) Friday 22 March 2019 (during the school day) Tuesday 26 March 2019 (7pm Bowler Hall, Starkholmes) Thursday 7 March 2018 (6.30pm Wheeldon Hall) Wednesday 3 April 2019 (7-9pm Wheeldon Hall) Thursday 11 April 2019 (6-8pm Wheeldon Hall) Wednesday 19 June 2019 (7-8.30pm Wheeldon Hall) Friday 21 June 2019 (during school day) Monday 24 June - Friday 5 July 2019
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Highfields School
Issue 15: 21 December 2018
Newsletter 2018-19 School Events cont/… New Y12 Induction Days
Year 8 Graduation Evening Challenge Day (Whole School)
Tuesday 25 June 2019 (during school day) Thursday 27 June 2019 (during school day) Friday 21 June 2019 (details to be confirmed) Wednesday 26 June 2019 (during school day at Lumsdale) Wednesday 26 June 2019 Wednesday 3 July 2019 (during school day) Wednesday 3 July 2019 (during school day) Wednesday 3 July 2019 (during school day) Wednesday 10 July – Saturday 13 July 2018 (7.30pm Wheeldon Hall) Wednesday 17 July 2019 (7pm Bowler Hall, Starkholmes) Friday 19 July 2019 (during school day at Lumsdale) – tbc
2018 Exam Results Days: A Level Exam Results: Thursday 15 August 2019
GCSE Exam Results: Thursday 22 August 2019
Y11 Prom Y7, Y8 & Y9 Sports Day GCSE/GCE Exam contingency day Y6 Visit Starkholmes Y7 Sponsored Walk / Y8 Visit Lumsdale Y9 Enterprise Day School Musical
Be the best you can
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Highfields School
Issue 15: 21 December 2018
Newsletter 2019-20 academic year These dates are provisional and subject to change. 2019/2020 Academic Year: Term Dates 3 September 2019 - 25 October 2019 4 November 2019- 20 December 2019 6 January 2020 - 14 February 2020 24 February 2020 - 3 April 2020 20 April 2020 - 22 May 2020 1 June 2020 - 21 July 2020
Bank Holidays 25 and 26 December 2019 1 January 2020 10 April 2020 (Good Friday) 13 April 2020 (Easter Monday) 4 May 2020 25 May 2020 (spring bank holiday) 31 August 2020 (summer bank holiday)
School to home communication In order to improve communication with parents/carers and to reduce the substantial cost and environmental impact associated with the amount of paper and photocopying involved in school mailings all correspondence is sent to parents/carers via email only. Our aim is that only students’ assessment profiles/data sheets, and of course, confidential or personal mail will be posted home. We fully understand that some parents/carers may wish to continue to have paper copies sent home rather than to receive communication by email and we will make arrangements to ensure that it is possible for this to continue upon request. Please contact the relevant pastoral manager at school to update your details if you do not currently receive email communications from Highfields: Mrs Green - Years 7 & 8 Mr Tidmarsh - Years 9, 10 & 11 Mrs Bumby - Sixth Form
01629 584020 extension 244 01629 581888 extension 364 01629 581888 extension 165
ParentView Survey We would like to remind you that you have the opportunity to give your views of school through the Ofsted Parent View survey below. https://parentview.ofsted.gov.uk/ The survey is designed by Ofsted and is used by Inspectors when making decisions about which schools to inspect and when.
Be the best you can
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