Issue 17

Highfields School Newsletter

2022-23

Issue17: 3February2023

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

Messagefromtheheadteacher

Governors and senior team have made a number of decisions over recent years which could come under the heading of ‘correct but not popular’. Banning mobile phones was one such decision. The upshot, however, continues tobeinteresting. In arecent newsletterI talked about students playing board games and on Wednesday I happened across a bunch of year 11s excitedly thronging around two students locked in an intense game of chess. I’m not much of a player myself (I was more of a tiddlywinks specialist, winning gold in the ’84 Olympics) but they looked pretty decent to me.

WehadthestrikeonWednesday(Ihavenothingtoaddtoformercommunications)and,thatevening, agovernors’meeting. Governorsarethepeoplewhoholdmetoaccountandthemeetingsarealways cordial but intense. In this meeting I was asked searching questions about everything from finance to curriculum to behaviour. By the time I got home I was shattered and was pleasantly surprised to find that one of my kids had, for the first time, made me some dinner.

My PA, Jacqui Wheatcroft, finally decided recently that she had had enough of me and resigned to take up another exciting opportunity. Before, during and after lockdown Jacqui has been a massive support to me. She has taken time to absorb the way I do things and has managed to communicate with others on my behalf with the patience and tolerance which I (try to) employ when looking after our many stakeholders. I am going to miss her massively but wish her the very best of luck in her next post. I can only hope that she doesn’t use this last newsletter (she proofs everything I write) to sabotage what’s left of my career.

In lessons this week I came across a Y8 lesson being delivered by two sixth form students whilst the classteacherhoveredsupportivelyatthebackoftheroom.Thelessonwaslookingatpowerdynamics in relationships and is a legacy of our ‘Stop It Now’ project from last year. We find that students respond welltolearningabout areassuchasrelationships fromolder students rather than established members of staff. I have been under some pressure to address the influence of a certain YouTuber on our male students. This YouTuber shares views about women and relationships which many find offensive. At Highfields we are keen not to further publicise this person’s work and instead we redouble our efforts to make sure that our curriculum and our ethos is one which encourages students to form their own balanced views about gender and power dynamics.

SO that was the week that was. I do hope you and your families pass a peaceful and pleasant weekend.

Ваші діти продовжують бути заслугою ваших сімей. Дякую.

A Marsh Headteacher

Parents/CarersUpdate

Talking about progress

We are well into parents’ evening season and it has been great to talk to many of you already about progress of our young people in sixth form, year 9 and year 11. Your support and our partnership are vital.

Inour recent parents and carerssurvey one themementioned under the‘could bebetter’ suggestions was the level of information in the student Assessment Profiles which you receive three times a year. The second profile of the year will have arrived or will be arriving in the next couple of weeks, depending on the year group of your child. Please read the accompanying descriptors for ‘Approach to Learning’ carefully. This is probably the single most important piece of information on the profile. It has a direct link to the standards students will ultimately achieve and reflects the characteristics of successful people in all walks of life.

Approach to Learning is summarised on the profile by a number code from 1-4 (outstanding to inadequate). These numbers are explained with a full range of characteristics in the accompanying information. We want all of our students to strive for outstanding – to show genuine interest in learning, to be keen to make the most of every moment in lessons, to ask and answer questions, to listen to their peers and collaborate with them, to produce their very best work lesson in, lesson out and to respond to feedback so that they continue to improve. A grade 2 is good and means we see elements of this a lot of the time – but not fully or always, so consistency is key. A requires improvement grade of 3 indicates some key issues – students could improve by taking more responsibility for their learning, for example by getting on task straight away and making the most of learning time without needing prompting. Where grades 3 and 4 are given teachers may include a letter code on the profile to provide further focus on a particular area, such as engagement.

A reminder too that our website is home to lots of information about learning, including curriculum / course guides for Key Stages 3 and 4 and sixth form.

Thanks as ever for showing such commitment to your child’s education and working with us to make it a great one.

Y11 mock exams – February/March

Y11 students will start their mock exams on Monday 27 February in the sports hall. Students have been given the mock timetable which is also available on the school website through the link below: https://www.highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Y11-Mocks-March-2023Student-Timetable-with-Back-Sheet.pdf

Summer exam timetables

All exam timetables are available on the school website for the summer exam period and can be accessed via the links below:

GCSE summer2023exam timetable – exams start Monday 15 May

https://www.highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Student-GCSE-TimetableSummer-2023-Version-1.pdf

Alevel summer2023exam timetable – exams start Monday 15 May

https://www.highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Student-A-Level-TimetableSummer-2023-Version-1.pdf

Y12/13 vocational summer2023 exam timetable – May exams

https://www.highfields.derbyshire.sch.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Student-Y1213-VocationalTimetable-Summer-2023-Version-1.pdf

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 are 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

Forthcoming events: January & February

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 mock exams start

SchoolNews

Performing Arts

Miss Bonsall

Last week we held our wonderful event ‘An Evening of Theatre’, and yet again our audience left thrilled and astounded by the talent at Highfields. This event gives students something to work towards as they dedicate themselves to extra-curricular clubs each week. It has also offered our younger students (years 7 and 8) the opportunity to build their confidence, perform with friends and get involved in a whole school event. So, another mini musical was created; an abridged and adapted version of ‘Madagascar'.

The incredibly strong cast was made up of nearly fifty year 7 and 8 students. Xanthe, a year 8 student, shone as Alex (the lion) with her strong vocal performance. Alex’s wonderful animal friends, Marty (Zebra), Melman (Giraffe) and Leila (Hippo) were played by Eben, Bobbie-Eve and Leila - all fantastically talented and confident year 7 students.

Another special mention should go to the incredibly funny penguins played by Lacey, Chloe, Grace and Evie, as well as Jack, a year 8 student, who impressed as the iconic King Julian.

As well as the mini musical, 'An Evening of Theatre' provided the opportunity to enjoy the work of another 70 students from upper school musical theatre club, lower and upper school Drama club, Dance club and A level and GCSE exam pieces. Stand out performances included year 13 student Nick, who performed a monologue that explores the trials and tribulations of being transgender; the cast of upper school musical theatre who showcased a knockout performance of ‘Seize The Day’ from the musical ’Newsies’; and year 9-13 boys performing snippets from Bouncersby John Godber.

Head of Drama & Dance, Emily Bonsall, said "our Evening of Theatre created a real buzz around the school and I was so impressed with the talent and commitment displayed by our students. A special mention has to go to the students who helped with lighting, sound and backstage, as well as those in year 13 or Year 11 performing for their last time with Highfields School."

Up next: 12 – 15 July 2023 – Grease!

Many of our performers at Highfields also took place in a very special performance of ‘YouWill BeFound’at Miss Bonsall’s wedding recently. She’d like to shareaveryheartfelt thank youto these students (and ex-students) for making the church ceremony that little bit more magical and personal.

Finally, some of our teachers recently attended the South Darley

Finally, some of our teachers recently attended the South Darley Pantomime ‘Rapunzel’ brilliantly written and directed by Tim Diggle. The show starred many of our Highfields students who all gave a fantastic, comedic performance. Well done to our current students Charlotte, Evie, Abigail, Imy, Finley, Charlie, Louis, Nick and recent university graduate and Highfields alumni, Molly.

Schoolsportandsportsleadersnews

Mrs Allen, School Sports Co-ordinator

KS1 multi-skills event 2023

We held the KS1 multi-skills event on Tuesday where we welcomed students from Darley Dale, Elton, Winster,SouthDarley,DarleyChurchtown,Lea,Wessington,StJoseph’sandTansleyprimaryschools. Highfields sports leaders from years 7-11 led a variety of activities for the young pupils to enhance thefundamentalskillsand physicalliteracy. Theseincluded gym, athletics, colouring,fine motorskills activity, basketball, hopper, ball skills and soccer skills.

Level 2 Sports Leaders

Our year 11 level 2 sports leaders are nearing completion of the Sports Leaders UK qualification.

The students completed the theory element required for the qualification, leaving the final practical delivery to take place in May.

The students have made a considerable contribution to the HighfieldsSportsLeadershipAcademysinceyear7andshould be very proud of their achievements as are we.

The qualification framework is detailed below.

StudentBulletin

WeekcommencingMonday6February2023: WeekA

Year 11 MFL mock orals (during the week)

Monday: Y9 assembly

Tuesday: Y7 and Y11 assembly Y9 TDP/Men ACWY immunisations / Y10 catch-up

Wednesday: Y10 assembly

Thursday: Y8 and sixth form assembly

Friday: -

See the list of extra-curricular activities taking place at lunch time and after school each day on both school sites.

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Hot dish of the day Light bites

BigBreakfastE/G/SU

Servedwithhash

brownsBaked tomatoesandbaked beans.

VeganBreakfastG

Servedwithhash browns,baked tomatoesand bakedbeansVe

Chicken&Vegetable

HotpotWithpotato toppingG

Quorn&Vegetable HotpotE/G

VeganChilliS/OVe

RoastBeef/Yorkshire

PuddingE/G/M

CreamedpotatoesM

SeasonalVegetables &Gravy

Cheese&PotatoPie

G/MV

ButterChickenM

servedwith Brown/WhiteRice

Thursday

Cheese Panini

Cheese/Ham Panini

JacketPotato

LoveJoeWrap/Panini

PastaBake

Pasta/Sauce

ShortbreadSliceG

ChocolateCracknelG/M

FruitCrumbleG

Friday

SeasonVeg&Naan G

Spinach&Chickpea

Curryservedwith Brown/WhiteRice

SeasonalVeg&

NaanG/MVe

BatteredFishF/G

servedwithChips

Peas&BakedBeans

QuornDippersG

servedwithChips

Peas&CarrotsVe

Cheese Panini

Cheese/Ham Panini

JacketPotato

LoveJoeWrap/Panini

PastaBake

Pasta/Sauce

Cheese Panini

Cheese/Ham

PaniniJacket

Potato

LoveJoeWrap/Panini

PastaBakePasta/Sauce

CheesePanini

Cheese&Ham

PaniniJacket

Potato

LoveJoeWrap/Panini

PastaBakePasta/Sauce

ChocolateOrange

RosalieGFlapjackG

StickyChocolate

PuddingE/G

BaconCobs

Croissants

Toasties

CheeseBagel

Toast

Teacakes

Crumpets

FreshFruit

Yoghurt

Bacon Cob

KPGarlicBread

CheesyWheels

Toast

Teacakes

Crumpets

FreshFruit

Yoghurt

CheesePanini

Cheese/HamPanini

JacketPotato

LoveJoeWrap/Panini

PastaBakePasta/Sauce

OatCookieG/SU

ChocolateBrownieE/G

CornflakeTartG

Cherry&Coconut

CookieG/SU

ChocolateCrunchE/G

BerrySpongeE/G

BaconCob

Pizza

Baguette

Cheese/Bean

Wrap

Teacakes

ToastCrumpetsFresh

FruitYoghurt

BaconCob

Sausage

CobKP

Garlic Bread

Cheesy

Wheels

Toast

TeacakesCrumpets

FreshFruitYoghurt

RosalieBiscuitG

LemonMuffinE/GParis

SandwichE/G/M

BaconCob

FlavouredNaanPizza

BaguetteCheeseBagels

Toast

TeacakesCrumpets

FreshFruitYoghurt

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)

Lunch

 Y7homeworkclubinroom4

 Y8homeworkclubinroom7withMrsGreen

 Y7/8‘actingforstageandscreen’inthe PerformingArtsmobilewithMissScattergood

 Y7/8sportsleadersinthegymwithMissJudson

CLUBS

Afterschool

 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

Tuesday

Wednesday

 Y7/8danceclubinthePerformingArtsmobile withMissScattergood

 JuniorChoirintheMusicroomwithMrsMorris

 LGBT+groupS6withDrToutandMissPaley

 Y7homeworkclubinroom4

 Y8homeworkclubinroom7withMissJudson

 TabletennisinthegymwithMrSearson

 Y8creativewritingin1AwithMissFearn

 Geoglebox(Geography-themedTV...David Attenboroughetc)inRoom2

 Y7/8AstronomyclubinLab3withMrRuston

Thursday

 Y8boys’footballontheall-weatherpitchat LumsdalewithMrRobertsandMrSearson

Friday

 Y7/8fitnessclubinthegymwithMissPaley

 ‘Boysmove’inthegymwithMrSearsonandMr Waller

 Y7filmclubin1AwithMissFearn

 KeyboardclinicintheMusicroomwithMrRowley

 Computingclubinroom4withMrLovatt

 Y7Craftclubinroom1withMissMitchell

 WarhammerandChessclubinroom8withMiss Tatam

 Y7homeworkclubinroom4

 Y8homeworkclubinroom7withMrsGreen

 Y7bookclub(weekB)at1.15pminthelibrary

 Y8bookclub(weekA)at1.15pminthelibrary

 Y7/8gardeningcluboutsideHoY

 Y8filmclubin1AwithMissFearn

 JuniorOrchestrainthemusicroomwithMr Stacey

 MiniMusicalfrom3.30-4.30pmintheperforming artsmobilewithMissBonsallandMissScattergood

 Y7boys’footballontheall-weatherpitchat LumsdalewithMrRobertsandMrSearson

 Y7/8rugbyonthefieldwithMrShirtcliffe

 Y7-8netballatLumsdalewithMrsWildgoose

Monday

Lumsdale (upper school site)

Lunch

 Y11GCSEfurthermathsinM3andM4

 Homeworkclub(allyears)inH4

 MusicLab(MusicTechnology)inD3withMr. Rowley

 SeniorChoirinMU1withMrs.Morris/Mr. Rowley

CLUBS

Afterschool

 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

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 MissBonsall

Thursday

 Sixthformfootball,SheffieldFC

Friday

 Basketball(allyears)inthesportshallwithMr Briddon

 Y9-11sciencedemoclubat1.10pminS3with MrAtkins

 GCSEmathsrevisionwithMrMoss

 Homeworkclub(allyears)inH4

 LGBT+groupS1withDrToutandMissPaley

 Gardeningclub(allyears)inS1

 Y9-11sportsleadersinthesportshallwith MrsAllenandMissPaley

 DukeofEdinburghwithMrsWildgoose

 Homeworkclub(allyears)inH4

 GCSEBusinessdrop-ininH4

 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

 Y9/10/11fitnessclubinthesportshallwithMr Waller

 Y7-11netballonthecourtswithMrsWildgoose

 SixthformmathsdropinwithMrMossandMrs Brown

 WindBandinthe6thFormCanteen

 Dungeonsanddragonsclub,Y9-11inC8withMiss Poundall

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.

Studentswillbegiven their student codeduringtheyear tobeable toaccess the programmeathome via the website (www.startprofile.com).

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

SpeakersforSchoolshasafreemobileappthat providesaone-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

Apprenticeshipopportunities

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

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/

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.

TrutexDirectandKickOffSportbothstockHighfieldsuniform. Kick OffSportalsostocktheHighfields 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 beaccessed 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.

Communicationwithschool–contactdetails

Generalenquiries

The first point of contact for parents/carers for general enquiries is reception. Receptionstaff 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.

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.

Department Contacts:

Art – Mrs K Fairbank

Business – Mr I Lovatt

Computing – Mr C Davies

D&T – Mrs C Hakin

Drama&Dance – Miss Bonsall

English – Mrs H Key

Film Studies – Mr C Warrington

Geography – Mrs M Barker

History – Mr P Copeland

Maths – Mrs R Brown

ModernForeignLanguages – Mrs M Bowen

Music – Mr K Rowley

PE – Mr C Shirtcliffe

Psychology – Miss H Ould

PRS – Mr R Platts

SENCO – Mr M Hodkin

Science – Mr R Atkins

Sociology – Mrs A Llewellyn

HighfieldsSchoolGoverningBoard2022-23

Highfields Schoolis fortunatein thekindsofpeoplewho 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.

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

Mr Dennis Holmes Parent

Inclusion (SEND, behaviour, attendance)

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 Community -

Mr 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/

Name Governor Type LinkGovernor Area

Keydates

Pleasenoteallcalendardatesareprovisionalatthisstageandarecorrectasof1September2022.

2022-23academic year

CPDdays(no studentsin school)

Term1: 1September2022to21October2022 Thursday1September2022

Term2: 31October2022to22December2022 Friday21October2022

Term3: 9January2023to17February2023 Monday5December2022

Term4: 27February2023to31March2023

Term5: 17April2023to26May2023

Term6: 5June2023to21July2023

2022-23parentconsultationevenings Y13parentsevening(4-7pm)

2022-23provisional schoolevents (further details will be issued prior to each event)

Y11mockexams(1)

Y13mockexams(1)

ChristmasConcert

ChristmasdiscoforY7/8

ALevelcertificatesevening

Y9virtualoptionsevening

Y7,8&9Fluimmunisationsessions(NHSteam)

EveningofTheatre(7-10pm)

Y9immunisations-TDP&MenACWY

Y11mockinterviews

Y11mockexams(2)

Y13mockexams(2)

EasterConcert

Y8/Y9immunisations-HPV

Y10internalexams

SportsLeadersAwardsEvening

GCSEs/Alevelexamseriesbegins

Y7endofyearinternalexams

Y12mockexams

Y8endofyearinternalexams

Y9internalexams

NewY12inductionsessions

Y13Prom

Y10workexperience

Monday21November–Friday2December2022(sportshall)

Monday28November–Friday9December2022(sportshall)

Wednesday14December2022,7-10pm,WheeldonHall, Lumsdale

Thursday15December2022,7-9pmBowlerHall,Starkholmes

Wednesday21December2022,7pmWheeldonHall,Lumsdale

Wednesday11January2022– twosessions6pm/7pm(virtual)

Thursday19January2022(bothsitesduringtheschoolday)

Wednesday25JanuaryandThursday26January2023,7pm BowlerHall,Starkholmes

Tuesday7February2023,Lumsdale

Thursday16February2023(duringschoolday)

Monday27February–Friday10March2023,SportsHall

Monday27February–Friday10March2023,SportsHall

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

Y7sponsoredwalk

Y8visitLumsdale

Y9enterpriseday

Y6parents'evening

Wholeschoolsportsday

SchoolMusical(7.30-10pm)

2023 exam resultsdays (provisional tbc): A Level exam results: 17August2023tbc

School day:

Break 10:45 11:10

Additional Bank Holiday – May 2023

Wednesday5July2023,Starkholmes

Wednesday5July2023

Wednesday5July2023,Lumsdale

Wednesday5July2023,Lumsdale

Wednesday5July2023,6pmBowlerHall,Starkholmes

Friday7July2023

Wednesday12July-Saturday15July2023,WheeldonHall, Lumsdale

GCSE examresults: 24August2023tbc

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.

2023-24 academic year and CPD days:

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