USEFUL INFORMATION
This A to Z Guide will provide you with all the information you need to know about King Henry VIII School Sixth Form.
Please feel free to contact us about any aspect of school life or if you require any further information or details about us. Contact details may be found inside the front cover of this booklet.
ABSENCE FROM SCHOOL
It is essential that we, as a school, know the whereabouts of all students during the school day as we are legally responsible for them during that time. Please follow the procedure (outlined below) regarding absence.
The following applies to any need to be out of school (that is not a school excursion) between 8:35am and 4:00pm, including activities and games afternoons.
Absence
If a student is absent due to ill health or significant personal circumstances, then parents should contact school before 8:35 am on the absence line 024 7627 1175 or email the school at info.khviii@csfoundation. org.uk. Permission for any absence, other than illness/medical appointments, needs to be requested in advance from the Headmaster headspa.khviii@csfoundation.org.uk
Medical and Dental Appointments
As far as possible, students should arrange for appointments with the doctor, dentist, optician, etc. to be held outside school time. If an appointment has to be held during school time, parents should email info.khviii@csfoundation.org.uk or writing a letter to be handed in at reception. The student must report to Reception before leaving the premises. Students must also sign back in at Reception if they return to school before 4.00 pm.
Illness and injury
Any student injured during the course of the day should report to the Medical Centre. Under no circumstances should students contact parents directly. No student can go home ill unless they have been seen by the School Nurse or a member of the Senior Leadership Team.
Unauthorised Absence
ln the event of an unauthorised absence from registration or lessons it is our policy to follow the procedures as detailed below:
1. Search the School site
2. Contact the parents if the student is not found.
3. lf parents are contactable, they will be given the option as to whether they would like us to contact the police.
4. lf parents cannot be contacted the Designated Safeguarding Lead will ring the Police.
ADDRESS AND TELEPHONE NUMBERS
Please notify the office of any changes to personal details, including emergency contact numbers and work numbers for parental contact during the day. You may be asked to confirm this in writing too. We will send an online capture form for completion at the beginning of each academic year.
ASSESSMENTS
Lower Sixth have assessments in November, February and May. Upper Sixth have assessments in November and February.
ATTENDANCE
Parents are responsible for ensuring both the regular attendance and punctuality of students. School commences at 8.35am and students who arrive after this time will be recorded as late. Latecomers who arrive between 8.35am and 9.00am must report to reception. Any student arriving after 9.00am must report directly to Reception. Students are welcome on site from 8am.
On occasion it may be obligatory for a student to attend school at times other than the ordinary school hours. For example, if the student is required to represent the School at a function, or to take part in an activity organised by the school, eg. sports, music.
Students in Upper and Lower Sixth are allowed to leave the premises during lunchtime. In all instances they must sign out in the book in the Sixth Form Centre foyer. We consider allowing Upper Sixth students to go home on afternoons when they have no lessons if they are on track in their November Assessments and up to date with all work. They must make a request to be allowed to go home to their Head of Year. This privilege may be revoked if a student falls behind.
Written permission for any other absence from school should be sent to the Headmaster. Please refer to the section ‘Leave of Absence’ for further details.
BICYCLES
Bicycles are a great way to get to school, and can be stored in the rain proof area provided. They should be securely locked, have lights and be well maintained. Please note, the School cannot accept responsibility for the loss of, or damage to, bicycles brought on site.
CALENDAR
At the start of the academic year, parents and students will receive a link to our online school calendar SOCs, giving times and dates of important activities and events throughout the year. Our website also gives details of forthcoming events.
COVENTRY SCHOOL FOUNDATION
King Henry VIII School was established in 1545. It is one of six schools in the charitable foundation known as Coventry School Foundation. The other schools are King Henry VIII Junior School (KHJS), King Henry VIII Pre-Prep, Bablake Senior School, Bablake Junior School and Bablake Pre-Prep. Coventry School Foundation, Kenilworth Road, Coventry, CV3 6PT - 024 7627 1300.
CAREERS
We offer an extensive careers advice service run by our Careers Advisor, Mrs Sally Pike. If any parents are able to volunteer their services to support our Careers Education, please contact Mrs Pike on spike@csfoundation.org.uk
CARS
Sixth Form students may come to School on motor cycles, motor scooters or in cars but only if they seek permission in advance and follow the guidelines set by the Head of Sixth Form. Parking is only permitted in the Sixth Form Centre car park and is extremely limited. A parking permit should be obtained from Mrs Moore or the Head of Year to use the Sixth Form car park.
CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
The School offers an enormous range of opportunities in the extra-curricular field and every student is expected to join at least one co-curricular activity.
COMMENDATION AND DISCIPLINE
Rewards For Positive Progress
We recognise that an integral part of developing the potential of our young people is by giving encouragement, praise and recognition. Staff actively look for opportunities to praise and reward students both within and beyond lessons. Rewards are given in as many areas of school life as possible (so they are
accessible for all students) and form a continuous process throughout the year. More information can be found in the School Behaviour Policy on our website.
Sanctions
Our expectation for all students is that they will exert a great deal of self-discipline, collective responsibility and follow the Student Code of Conduct (Henry’s Values).
As a community we uphold and expect the following values from all our students:
RESPECT LEARNING WELLBEING
When problems arise, a clear distinction will be made between breaches of the Student’s Code of Conduct and difficulties associated with behaviour in lessons, deficiencies in work or personal and pastoral issues. Staff have clear rules and routines for behaviour in classrooms and take responsibility for promoting good and courteous behaviour both in classrooms and around the school, in accordance with the school’s behaviour policy.
Please refer to the Behaviour Policy on our website for more details.
COMMUNICATION – ARROW NEWSLETTER
Every Friday afternoon in term time parents and students receive a copy of our weekly newsletter the ‘Arrow’ via email. This is the main communication, which gives lots of information about the week ahead including:
• Latest news and activities
• Parents’ Evenings and Curriculum Evenings
• Trips and excursions
• Upcoming events, such as Drama, Music or Sport
• Any urgent or important messages
It is important that we have an updated email address for you and that also you add info.khviii@ csfoundation.org.uk to your safe senders to ensure it does not go into your junk email. If you change your email address, please inform us as soon as possible.
We choose electronic communication as we are conscious of the environmental impact, however paper copies of all emails and letter attachments are always available on request.
If you have any good news to share with the school community, please email marketing@csfoundation.org.uk
COMPLAINTS
The Policy for Responding to Parental Complaints can be found on our website.
CONTACT WITH PARENTS
Should you wish to discuss your child’s progress you can make an appointment with either their Form Tutor, Year Head or Deputy Head. If you wish to meet with the Headmaster you can arrange an appointment in advance with his Personal Assistant, please email headspa.khviii@csfoundation.org.uk or telephone 024 7627 1111.
During the course of the academic year, Parents’ Evenings are held which enable parents to discuss progress with individual subject teachers, Form Tutors and Year Heads. Parents are welcome to contact Form Tutors and Year Heads at any time of the year should they wish to discuss their child’s progress.
CURRICULUM
Our aim is to provide a broad and balanced curriculum, maintaining high academic standards and integrating the principles of the National Curriculum where appropriate.
The curriculum operates on a two week timetable, with homework set at the most appropriate times for each subject.
There is careful discussion of options with all concerned before entering the Sixth Form. This ensures that our students take courses which are appropriate for their ambitions with regard to Higher Education and careers. The School currently encourages students to take three A Levels together with the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), which is an opportunity for students to study a topic in depth. A more detailed breakdown of the curriculum is available from the Deputy Head, Mr Richard Sewell - rgs@csfoundation. org.uk.
Extensions to the main curriculum include: Sport and Games where, in addition to the major and highly successful team games such as hockey, rugby, netball, cricket, athletics and cross-country, other activities have been developed such as orienteering, dance, swimming and basketball.
Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE), we regard this as a vital and invaluable part of a young person’s education. It consists of one period a fortnight when the personal, social and health education and development of all students is fostered and promoted in a variety of ways. Appropriate topics are also covered in several subject areas and cross-curricular work takes place in tutorial time, School and Year Assemblies and House events. RSE, living in the wider world and wellbeing are an important part of this and is being implemented within subjects and PSHE time, according to the current legislation and guidelines.
DRESS CODE
Sixth Form students are always expected to be well presented with a business-like appearance when representing the School. Suits for this purpose can be purchased from high street retailers but must be bought as a suit and not as individual pieces. A copy of the dress code is at the end of this booklet. The Sixth Form Team and Senior Management may ask a student to return home if their attire is considered unsuitable. All P.E. and Games kit should be purchased from the School Shop — Number 57 Schoolwear. Sixth Formers will need to purchase school kit appropriate for the activity which they are doing, once they have chosen their Games options
EPQ
The majority of Lower Sixth students students undertake an Extended Project Qualification (Level 3). It enables the students to research an area of their choice in depth. They produce either a written essay of 5000 words or an artefact, with a brief written piece of 1500 words. They also have to give a presentation of their research alongside maintaining a detailed log book. Marks are gained for the process, as described in the logbook, as well as the final outcome.
EXTENDED STUDIES PERIOD
This lesson is unique to Lower Sixth. It takes place on Tuesday, period 1, once a fortnight and is a carousel of options. The first option block runs for approximately six weeks. This will include a compulsory block on “Maths for biologists” for all students taking Biology. After Christmas the second block runs for six weeks each, up to the Easter holidays. In the second half of the summer term, students will focus on UCAS applications.
FEES
Fees for the school year 2024-2025 are £5,300 per term or £15,900 per annum. These are also listed on our website.
Payment Options - School Fee Plan
This is by far the most popular payment option. Ten monthly payments are made at 0% APR by direct debit. This service allows you to spread the cost of your school fees over ten months, commencing in August each year and finishing in May. This facility is interest free, as all related charges are met by the Coventry School Foundation.
Visit www.myschoolfeeplan.com for more details.
GAMES
Games are a compulsory part of the curriculum unless a student has been granted exemption for medical reasons. A letter must be sent in to the School Nurse, to explain the situation whether it applies to the whole term or an individual games or PE lesson. Students who are unfit for games are required to report it to the School Nurse, who will, in consultation with the PE/Games staff, indicate an appropriate activity, depending on the type of illness/injury.
Many sporting activities take place on site, however, the playing fields on the A45 Stonebridge Highway (via Scimitar Road, CV3 4EJ) and the Coventry School Foundation astro all weather pitches are also used (Norman Place Road, CV6 2BU). The Year 7 Games day is Friday. All teams sheets are announced online using SOCs calendar, our Sports online noticeboard.
Students selected to represent the School in inter-school fixtures are expected to give such fixtures high priority. They may take place after school, during the week and at weekends, particularly Saturdays. We encourage parents to attend these fixtures.
GOVERNORS
The Chair of Governors is Prof. Ian Dunn who can be contacted, if necessary, via the The Clerk to the Governors, Coventry School Foundation, Kenilworth Road, Coventry, CV3 6PT. A full list of Governors can be found on our website.
GUM SHIELDS
Gum shields and shin pads are required for hockey and rugby, whilst practising and when playing in all matches. We strongly advise that all participants wear a dentist-fitted gum shield. Gum shields are also available from the School Shop, Number 57 Schoolwear.
HIGHER EDUCATION DAY
All Lower Sixth students are off timetable for the Next Steps Day in June when they follow a programme of events aimed at getting them started on their career ambitions beyond Henry’s such as starting their UCAS application. They will get specialist advice on Higher Education applications from visiting university admissions tutors; attend an H.E and apprenticeship minifair and have discussion groups with returning students from King Henrys who have just finished their first year at university or in apprenticeship. The students will then log-on to the UCAS system and set up their online application. This will be a non-uniform day and lunch will be a ‘bring and share picnic’ in the Sixth Form Centre.
HOME - SCHOOL PARTNERSHIP
As a school we will
• Provide effective teaching
• Provide a supportive environment for learning
• Monitor your son’s/daughter’s work effectively
• Set appropriate homework and advise you on the homework expectations at each stage
• Praise your son/daughter on their achievements
• Deal with problems in a professional, consistent and fair manner
• Provide up to date and timely information about School events and School procedures
• Provide a range of extra-curricular activities
• Communicate the School’s concerns about problems relating to your son/daughter
• Enable easy access to parents to raise any concerns
As a student, you are expected to
• Be punctual for registration, lessons and other commitments
• Attend regularly
• Work to the best of your ability, complete all your homework and meet deadlines
• Take responsibility for your own learning, organisation and discipline
• Comply with the ICT Code of Practice
• Participate to the best of your ability in form, school and house activities
• Exhibit good standards of behaviour (at all times) in and out of school
• Show respect for others, their possessions and the School environment
• Comply with uniform guidelines
• Communicate with your parents and teachers any concerns or problems which you may encounter
• Be relied upon to represent your school with pride, when selected for school teams or activities
As a parent, we hope you will
• Support the School’s ethos and aims
• Ensure that your son/daughter attends school regularly and is punctual
• Avoid taking family holidays in term time whenever possible
• Have realistic expectations of your son’s/daughter’s ability
• Provide a conducive environment in which homework may be done
• Monitor and sign your son’s/daughter’s Homework Diary
• Endeavour to support school activities (parents’ evening, concerts/events)
• Advise the School of problems/issues concerning your son/daughter and pass on any relevant medical details
• Supply absence notes promptly and reply to school communications
• Ensure that your son/daughter comes to school in the correct school uniform and with the correct equipment
• Ensure that part-time jobs do not interfere with school work
• Ensure that your son/daughter is available to represent the School when selected for school teams/ activities
HOUSES
Each student belongs to one of our four houses:
Hales’ – named after the school’s founder John Hales
Holland’s – named after Philemon Holland, a former headmaster famous for his translations of Livy, Pliny, and Plutarch.
Sherwyn’s – named after the first headmaster, Thomas Sherwyn
White’s – named after Sir Thomas White, who created the Sir Thomas White Scholarship which funds scholarships at the school to this day.
The four houses compete annually for the coveted Band Trophy, donated to the school by former student and Chair of Governors C.J.Band. Competition is fierce but good humoured and provides students with a valuable opportunity to collaborate, persevere, have fun and take pride in their house. Students have the opportunity to practise their leadership skills through the role of House Captain for their year. All are expected to take an active part in house competitions with a wide range of activities available, from dodgeball to quizzes, fundraising to instrumental music. House Music and House Drama are highlights in the calendar with considerable creativity and commitment from students on display. Other prestigious
events include House Cross Country in the War Memorial Park , with the year finishing in celebratory fashion at Warwick Athletics Track for the annual Sports Day.
ILLNESS AND ACCIDENTS - MEDICAL
See Absence from School.
INSURANCE MATTERS
Students’ Accident Insurance
School fees include provision of accident insurance cover which becomes effective in cases of students sustaining permanent injury or disablement in the course of school activities. Furthermore the cover extends to the results of accidents occurring during recreational and leisure activities involving students at any time, whether the activities be school based or private.
In addition, your child may receive dental cover in the event of a personal accident at no charge to the parent. More information is available on the School website.
Similar considerations apply to school journeys within the UK. The School is then insured for personal and public liability but not for personal effects and property. In such cases special short-term policies covering a wide range of risks are available and the member of staff in charge will supply details of the cover on request.
Personal Possessions
Whilst all reasonable care is taken to ensure the safety of students’ possessions within school, the Governors do not accept responsibility in cases of loss or theft occurring on school premises and the School’s insurance policies do not cover the personal property of students.
Fortunately many household content policies already cover the policy-holder and members of the household against loss of clothing or other property at the place of work, which can be taken to include a school. Not all policies automatically offer such cover but where necessary a policy can be extended at a small extra charge.
You would be well advised to check with your insurers to ensure that items of uniform or sports equipment are covered by your policy while at school, when visiting other schools and while in transit between home and school. If your child is likely to come to school on a bicycle it is particularly important to check if it is adequately covered by insurance.
LANYARDS
All students are expected to wear a lanyard at all times which holds their ID badge. This ID badge also doubles as a means for purchasing food through the electronic pay system in the Dining Hall (which can be topped up by ParentPay) and to access doors and gates into school.
LEARNING SUPPORT
We have coordinated and specialist Learning Support at King Henry VIII School. We aim to ensure that all our students feel confident, enjoy learning and reach their full potential. We aim to meet most needs within the classroom. Student support is tailored to meet individual needs. Mrs Claire Brindley is the Head of Learning Support so do get in touch with her if you have any questions, CEB@csfoundation.org.uk
LIBRARY
The Library is open daily from 9.00 am – 5.30 pm. At the beginning of Year 7, the English department provides an induction. It is run with the help of a team of Student Librarians.
Many use the Library for private study during lesson times. Students have open access to the Library at break and lunch when the atmosphere is more relaxed, but still purposeful as students drop in to do their homework, use a computer, read a book or play chess.
The Jeff Vent Archive Room, in addition to housing the school archive, is used for teaching, meetings and Sixth Form private study. It is equipped with a drop-down screen, projector and six networked computers. It is available commercially for use by external organisations by contacting our Commercial Operations Manager mfardon@csfoundation.org.uk.
LOCKERS
Sixth Form students may ask for access to their own locker, which enables them to keep school books, equipment and personal property safe and secure. The correct locker key must be returned at the end of each academic year. If a student loses their locker key, a £5 fee is payable by cash to cover the cost of a replacement key each time.
Specially designated areas have also been provided for the storage of games bags. P.E. bags should be kept in lockers. If students misplace/forget their locker key, they must report to their Head of Year (HoY) who will be able to access their locker. If they are unable to locate their HoY, then they can report to Reception. No spare keys are available for misplaced keys.
LOST PROPERTY
All lost property is monitored and kept in a designated lost property room, near Reception. Please ensure all items of clothing are fully named, this will help with the return of any lost items. Form Tutors and Year Heads are always available to help in the case of any difficulty.
LUNCHES/CATERING
Break and lunch services are provided in the Sixth Form Centre on a cafeteria basis using the ID card cashless system. Our chef creates a fresh and nutrional food service that is uniquely tailored to meet the needs of the students
MOBILE PHONES/SMART WATCHES
Mobile phones should not be used or visible between 8.30am and 4.00pm on the main site. If a mobile phone is visible on the main site a Sixth Form detention will be issued. They can, however, be used in the common areas in the Sixth Form Centre. Smart watches should not be worn by Sixth Form students.
No responsibility for the loss of a mobile phone will be accepted where the above procedures have not been followed.
MUSIC DEPARTMENT/LEARNING A MUSICAL INSTRUMENT
King Henry VIII School has a vibrant, busy music department with a full programme of performances, lessons, trips, masterclasses, outreach projects, and tours. In the past few years, we have gone on tour to both Prague and Vienna, including singing mass in St Mark’s Cathedral, put on full productions of Les Misérables, Little Shop of Horrors, and Hairspray, performed gala concerts to audiences of over 1000 in the Butterworth Hall, and had many other full school concerts, Rock School concerts, year group recitals, and chamber concerts.
We have had visiting concerts and masterclasses from the Coull Quartet and Gaynor Keeble, hosted the JLR Brass Band, given the world premières of Perpetuity, a piece written for us by our former Composerin-Residence, Stephen Crewes, and Beacon of Freedom by Howard Skempton, a piece setting to music poetry by Henry’s students. We have also taken trips to see Wicked in London, the CBSO in Birmingham, won awards at the Leamington Festival, and sung in Brendan Cole’s dance show at the Warwick Arts Centre. Our clarinet trio recently won the national Pro Corda Chamber Music Competition.
Ensembles
We have a large number of ensembles rehearsing weekly including Senior Orchestra, Senior and Junior choirs, rock bands, jazz band, string quartets, flute ensemble, sax ensemble, and many more. Membership to almost all of these groups is open to everyone. Talk to your instrumental tutor or to Mr Newton for more information – we will always find you something to take part in.
Instrumental lessons
We offer lessons on violin, viola, cello, bass, flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, trumpet, trombone, tuba, French horn, percussion, as well as piano, guitar, saxophone, voice, electric guitar and drum kit. Lessons take place during the School day and operate on a rota system so students do not always miss the same academic lesson. We also offer music theory lessons after school. The cost of lessons varies slightly between teachers but is around £19 per half hour. To sign up for lessons contact Mr Newton on rjn@csfoundation.org.uk or or Mr Ross, Head of Instrumental Studies, pjr@csfoundation.org.uk
NURSE
The School Nurse works on site between the hours of 8.15am until 4.15pm, Monday to Friday. She is responsible for the day-to-day management of any accidents/illnesses that occur to the children during school hours, and the support and management of students who have existing medical conditions.
Student Medication
If your child requires prescribed medicines to be given during the School day, medication should be handed to the School Nurse at the start of the day along with a letter of consent. The Nurse will then be responsible for dispensing the medication. For students who use an inhaler or have allergies that require the use of an Epipen/Jext/Emerade, please provide a letter of consent. It is assumed that students are able to administer these themselves. Parents must provide a spare Epipen which will be kept in the Medical Centre.
Students are discouraged from carrying medicines such as paracetamol around school. On the Health Information Form there was the opportunity for you to give consent for your child to take medicines such as paracetamol should the need arise.
The School Nurse is available to support the whole school community by way of discussing medical or any other matters which may be of concern to individual students or their parents. Contact nurse.khviii@csfoundation.org.uk
OPENING HOURS
The Sixth Form Centre is open from 8am to 6pm. Sixth Formers are welcome to use the facilities during these times.
OUTDOOR EDUCATION
The School has a rich tradition of education beyond the classroom as well as within it. Our Outdoor Education programme is one of the best in the country and offers tremendous challenges and rewards to students in every year group of the school. The programme is over seen by the Head of Outdoor Education and delivered by trained and competent staff.
Our students have an opportunity to join our very popular climbing club, which takes place on our own climbing wall. In Years 9 -13 the majority of our students participate in the Bronze, Silver and Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award; the world’s leading achievement award, as well as trekking challenges such as ‘The Sandstone Trail’. In addition, students have the opportunity achieve the National Navigation awards and take part in more adventurous trekking and Eco-challenge trips abroad in places such Borneo, Peru, Costa Rica. Students in all year groups have the opportunity to participate in; orienteering clubs and competitions; first aid programmes and many more… There is something to tempt every student to put on their outdoor gear and head off with their friends for a new challenge. Contact outdoorlearning@csfoundation.org.uk
PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION
The School has a Parents’ Association (PA) of which all parents are members. King Henry’s PA focuses on working across the School campuses, building the School community through fun events and fundraising. It’s an active and friendly committee that meets throughout the year to organise social and fundraising activities, and support events in the calendar. Proceeds from fundraising events are used to fund projects and purchase equipment for the benefit of the students.
Committee meetings are held twice termly, and you will find the dates and times published in the calendar with informal event group meetings arranged as necessary. Details of the committee members and forthcoming events can be found on the school website. For further information about joining in, please contact us via the School reception or email parents.khviii@csfoundation.org.uk.
PARENT PAY
ParentPay is used for purchases, including: school trips, DofE, revision guides, calculators, exam resits, etc. An activation letter will be issued to enable you to set this up.
PARKING/DROP OFF
Parents are asked not to bring their vehicles onto the School premises but should drop off their children and pick them up at a safe and appropriate parking location, such as Davenport Road, Michaelmas Road, Spencer Road or Central Six Retail Park.
PLEASE DO NOT PARK ON DOUBLE YELLOW LINES just outside school as this is both ILLEGAL AND DANGEROUS. PLEASE DO NOT OBSTRUCT DRIVEWAYS AND ACCESS POINTS NEAR SCHOOL. PLEASE DO NOT PARK IN THE SIXTH FORM CAR PARK.
PASTORAL CARE
All staff are involved in the pastoral care of students and their work is supported through the PSHE programme, a variety of assemblies and social activities, trips, House events and extra-curricular activities. Dr Cuthbert, Deputy Head Pastoral, is ultimately responsible for pastoral care in the School. Should you have any questions email mbc@csfoundation.org.uk
PEER SUPPORT
We encourage students to speak to staff if they have any concerns while they are at school. Sometimes however, children prefer to speak to someone closer to their own age. This is the rationale behind our Peer Support service. Students are visited in their Forms by older students for regular chats.
PREFECTING AND HEADS OF SCHOOL
All Lower Sixth students are invited to apply to be a Prefect before February half term. Prefects undertake duties on a weekly basis assisting members of staff in managing particular areas of the school before school, at break and lunch. Only a select number of students become prefects, taking on their role after the February half term.
Those wishing to step up to be a Senior Prefect make applications to the Head of Sixth Form and are appointed after an interview after the February assessments.
The four Heads of School are self-nominated towards the end of the Spring term. They are selected via a student and staff vote using the single transferable voting system. The role of the Heads of School are to; organise the prefect body especially the duty rota, represent school at official functions, speak in assembly or at official dinners, lead by example for all students and students, whether crossing the road or on the main site in a variety of ways, provide a link between staff and students, act as a representative of King Henry VIII School at all times, acting accordingly and lead the Student Social Committee. They begin their role at the start of the Summer Term.
REPORTING AND ASSESSMENT
Whilst our main academic focus at school is delivering high quality teaching to our students, we understand that parents require regular feedback on the academic, pastoral and co-curricular progress of their child. There are three main elements to the feedback you receive:
1. Parents’ Evenings. These take place once a year for teacher consultations and are published in the school calendar. Appointments are made and recorded by students in their Homework Planners. We also organise one off Parents’ Evenings at important points in the students’ careers. Thus there is a Lower Sixth and Upper Sixth Parents’ Evening shortly after the November Assessments.
2. Grade cards. Every half term you will receive a grade card. This will give you an indication of academic attainment, academic application and homework attainment. The grade cards will build up incrementally so that you can see a pattern of progress across the year.
3. Reports. A full written report is sent out once each year to give more detailed feedback on achievement and also guidance for future improvement. This will also include a House report and Games report where appropriate.
4. End of year exams.
This feedback should add up to a fulsome set of information for parents. Of course, if you have concerns in between these reports, you must get in touch with the subject teacher in person or by email so that the teacher can give you more detail. Any questions about reports should be directed to Mr Sewell, Deputy Head.
SAFEGUARDING AND CHILD PROTECTION
The wellbeing of our students is of paramount importance to the School and its staff. The School also has certain guidelines which it has to follow. This information is contained in the Child Protection Policy which is available on the School website under policies, and also in hard copy from Reception. The Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) is Dr Cuthbert, Deputy Head, to whom all enquiries should be addressed to mbc@csfoundation.org.uk.
SCHOOL HOURS
A summary of the school day and lesson times is shown below and also appears in the Homework Diary REGISTRATION 8.35
ASSEMBLY / TUTORIAL TIME: 8.40 - 9.00
PERIOD 1: 9.00 - 9.50
PERIOD 2: 9.50 - 10.45
BREAK: 10.45 - 11.10
PERIOD 3: 11.10 - 12.00 PERIOD 4: 12.00 - 12.55
12.55 - 14.00
REGISTRATION 14.10 - 14.15
PERIOD 5: 14.15 - 15.05
PERIOD 6: 15.05 - 16.00
SCHOOL RULES
Students should show consideration for others, respecting their views and their property. At all times we expect a high standard of behaviour and of respect. A copy of the School Rules can be found in the Sixth Form Diary.
SIXTH FORM DIARY
The Sixth Form Diary contains considerable useful information and can be used as an immediate and convenient communication between school and home.
SOCIAL MEDIA
We have Twitter, Facebook and Instagram accounts so that parents can keep track of the most recent events and successes. You are warmly encouraged to reshare anything you feel other parents may be interested in. If you have any questions about our social media accounts, please contact marketing@csfoundation.org.uk
Follow us here
• Twitter - @KHVIIISchool
• Facebook - www.facebook.com/KingHenryVIIISchool
• Instagram - www.instagram.com/kinghenryviiischool/
SUMMER ACTIVITIES
During the summer holidays we hold a great Summer Activity Camp at the School which is sport and nonsport based. More information can be found here: www.teamsupersports.co.uk/coventry.
SUPPORTED STUDY
As part of Lower and Upper Sixth timetables there will be periods of supported study. These are independent study periods in the Sixth Form Centre supervised by our KS5 Learning Mentor, Miss Rees, who will help students to make the transition needed from studying at GCSE level to A Level. During these periods students are consolidating what they have learnt in lesson time, research/reading their subject, completing homework or revising. Miss Rees offers one to one support with general study and revision planning, ensuring our students develop strong study techniques and habits that will see them through Sixth Form and beyond.
TELEPHONE
Students may go to reception if they need to contact home urgently. We strongly urge parents and students to avoid having mobile phones in school, except in cases of emergency. Where it is essential to bring a mobile phone to school, students should either keep them in their locker during the school day or hand them into Reception for safekeeping. Mobile phones can then be collected from Reception at the end of the school day.
TERMS AND HOLIDAY DATES
Terms and holiday dates are shown below and also appear in the Homework Diary. Please remember that booking family holidays during term time IS NOT permitted and will be unauthorised. All requests for absences must be in writing and have prior approval from the Headmaster.
TRANSPORT
The School is well placed for public and private transport. Using public transport offers students the opportunity to develop independence and self-reliance, as well as giving parents more independence too. If you would like to research the best way for your child to get to school, please go the Transport section of our website or contact the Transport Manager for Coventry School Foundation on 024 7627 1328 or tm@csfoundation.org.uk
VALUABLES
Students should not bring valuable items or large sums of money to school. However, if circumstances necessitate that such items are brought to school they should either be handed to a member of staff for safekeeping or be locked inside a locker. Before a Games or PE lesson, valuables should be handed to the Games teacher for safekeeping. If these procedures are not followed the School cannot accept responsibility for loss of property.
VESPA
This is the Sixth Form Study model and is based around 5 key components that we strongly believe lead to student success. Each characteristic provides a focus for students which helps lead to a frame work to develop positive independent study skills.
The characteristic are: VISION EFFORT SYSTEMS PRACTICE ATTITUDE
WEBSITE
Please take a look at our website whenever you can as we update it regularly. You will find a link to our Twitter, Facebook and Instagram feeds, recent News items and also the weekly calendar of events. If your child has any successes which we can share, please get in touch with Marketing marketing@csfoundation.org.uk.
WITHDRAWAL OF STUDENTS FROM SCHOOL
In accordance with point (i) of the Parent Contract, a full term’s notice of the intention to remove a student from school must be sent to the Headmaster, in writing. Failure to comply with the above will result in a full term’s fee being charged.
DRESS AND APPEARANCE CODE
2024-2025
KING HENRY VIII SIXTH FORM DRESS AND APPEARANCE CODE
At the pinnacle of their school career and the strongest ambassadors for our school Sixth Form students are always expected to be well presented with a business-like appearance when representing the school. Suits for this purpose can be purchased from high street retailers but must be bought as a suit and not as individual pieces. The Sixth Form Team and Senior Leadership Team may ask the student to return home if their attire is considered unsuitable.
The Dress and Appearance Code has been drawn up through extensive consultation with students and staff. Their views have helped shape an approach to uniform and appearance which aims to be fair, inclusive, reasonable, and transparent.
This guidance on uniform and appearance has been written with reference to the Department for Education Guidance on School Uniforms (2023). The requirements of the Human Rights Act (1998), the Equality Act (2010) and the guidance provided by the Halo Code for Afro-textured hair have been taken into account.
Consideration has been given to the impact of the policy on pupils who share a protected characteristic, in particular:
• religion or belief
• race (including colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin)
• disability
• gender
School uniform must be worn whenever pupils are on site or representing the School elsewhere, this includes the journey to and from School and on School visits as required.
Lanyard Lanyards play a significant role in our school’s safeguarding procedures. Lanyards must be always worn around the neck in school unless a member of staff asks students to remove them for safety reasons, such as games or practical lessons.
Jumper Thin knit jumper in a single colour with V or round neck or ¼ zip. A jacket must be worn over this on the main school site.
Hair Hair must be tidy, of natural colours and appropriate for a school setting. Accessories, including those worn for religious reasons and those worn by those with Afrotextured hair, should be either black or a deep red, or the natural colour of the hair. We embrace the Halo Hair Code for Afro-textured hair.
Facial Hair Pupils should be clean shaven or have a manicured beard unless worn naturally for religious reasons or specific health issues.
Jewellery Pupils must wear discreet jewellery, and these must be removed for Games. No piercings, except ear lobes are allowed. Wristwatches are permitted but smart watches should be left at home or turned off.
Makeup/ Cosmetics Makeup, where worn, should be subtle. False eyelashes and nails may not be worn.
Coats Coats should be smart and of a dark colour. No suede, leather, denim, or casual style puffer jackets and gilets are not allowed; coats may have a discreet logo. We encourage pupils to purchase a Henry’s coat at the uniform shop. Coats/jackets may not be worn inside the school building or classrooms.
Skirt Suit
Skirt or trouser suit in black, brown, navy or grey. Pinstripes or checks are acceptable. A dress suit is also allowed. Alternatively, a complementary jacket and skirt or dress can be worn. Skirt length should be closer to the knee than the mid-thigh. Trousers can be ankle length. Stretch fabric (eg jersey) and tight-fitting skirts or trousers are not allowed.
Blouse or top with collar or uncollared and sleeves. Plain colours and moderate patterns. See through fabrics and sleeveless designs are unacceptable.
Black or dark coloured shoes or ankle boots with heels no higher than 5cm.
The school pin is to be worn on the jacket and can be obtained from the Sixth Form office.
Plain, dark or natural-coloured tights, no patterns. Plain socks in dark colours or white.
Trouser Suit
Suit in black, brown, navy or grey. Pinstripes or checks are acceptable. Alternatively, a complementary jacket and trousers can be worn.
Shirt with collar and sleeves. Plain colours and moderate patterns. Cufflinks are acceptable.
Further Information
School or Representative tie.
Black or dark coloured shoes or ankle boots worn with socks.
Must be clean shaven or have a manicured beard.
Plain dark coloured socks.
If a student or family is experiencing any difficulties caused by our uniform guidance on such bases as religion, race, disability, gender identity or medical issues, they are encouraged to contact the Head of Year to discuss further.
The Head reserves the right in their absolute discretion to refuse entry to the School to any pupil failing to observe any of these dress regulations, and to rule on the acceptability of variations not covered by the regulations.
Please note that failure to comply will lead to a formal warning. Repeated non-compliance will lead to serious sanctions in accordance with the School’s Behaviour Policy.
If you are unsure about the uniform, please do get in touch.
PE and Games Kit
All P.E. and Games kit is purchased from the School Shop - Number 57 Schoolwear, details of which are given below. Sixth Formers will need to purchase school kit appropriate for the activity which they are doing, once they have chosen their Games options.
School Sports Top
School Midlayer
School Trackpants
School Skort/Shorts
School Hockey/Rugby Socks
Other Essential Items
Optional Kit
School Black Base Layer
School Leggings
School Gym Shorties
School Bench Coat
• Sports bag or holdall, large enough to hold complete games kit, preferably black or red, plain or with KHVIII design.
• Towel for showers.
• Hockey stick, tennis, squash or badminton racquet.
• Mouthguards and shin pads for hockey/rugby.
All articles of Games clothing should be clearly marked with the owner’s name.
Number 57 Schoolwear
Manageress: Mrs. Helen Zgraja Telephone: 024 76597876
Web: www.number57schoolwear.co.uk
Email: sales@number57schoolwear.co.uk
Opening Hours
Tuesday - Friday 9.00am – 5.00pm
Saturday 10.00 a.m. - 2.00 p.m.
Monday, Sunday/Bank Holidays Closed
Location: 57 Barker Butts Lane, Coundon, Coventry, CV6 1DU.
Payment: In cash or major debit/credit card.
King Henry VIII School
Warwick Road Coventry
