Introduction and Welcome from the Head of Sixth Form
Welcome to all new students and welcome back to the returning Year 11 students. We hope that your time in the Rishworth School Sixth Form with be both enjoyable and successful.
This Sixth Form Handbook will provide an overview of the main things which you need to remember and act on to ensure that you make a good start to Sixth Form life and then maintain the momentum.
The “Deeds not Words” ethos of Rishworth should be your guiding principle throughout the next two years
Mr Peter Robinson Head of Sixth Form & UCAS Coordinator probinson@rishworth-school.co.ukPastoral Care
Your Tutor will have day-to-day responsibility for you and will liaise with your teachers, the Head of Sixth Form, the Assistant Head of Sixth Form and your parents, and, for boarders, with House Staff and guardians. Your Tutor is there to listen as well as to offer guidance, support and advice and to pass on important information from the Head of Sixth Form and Assistant Head of Sixth Form. Be sure to listen and respond positively.
The Sixth Form Centre (6FC)
This is your area. You have an adult and sophisticated space. Please treat the area, furniture and fittings with care and respect and keep the rooms tidy.
The Codes of Conduct for all the rooms in the 6FC are included.
The 6FC will be open from 8.00am during the week
The School Day
We follow a two-week timetable – a Blue Week and a Red Week. In a fortnight you will usually have 9 hours of teaching per subject.
On Wednesday afternoons, all Sixth Form students have their Games lesson All Sixth Formers are expected to be involved in School Sports Teams or School-organised recreation unless permission has been requested and given, to pursue a worthwhile out-of-school activity / hobby or academic study.
You will also have some timetabled Enhanced Curriculum sessions which will be used for a variety of activities.
You will also have some non-taught time each week – some can be used to relax but some must be used for independent study, either in the 6FC or the Library. You will have the opportunity to select when independent and group sessions will take place but should expect to complete all sessions that you sign up to as a minimum. Students should complete one hour of independent work per A Level equivalent per week in the Library and should sign up to one group session per subject per fortnight. Obviously, this is just a minimum; in order to achieve the highest of your potential, further independent study time will be required.
All Sixth Formers are expected to take part in some aspects of the Enrichment and Extension (EE) programme, which could be as a young leader rather than as a participant. This occurs before school, at lunch time and after school.
8.40am Morning Registration
8.45am Assembly (Mondays in a blue week and every Friday)
Tutorial or Sixth Form Assembly (Mondays in a red week, Tuesday and Wednesday)
Team Meetings (Thursday)
9.00am – 10.00am Period 1
10.00am – 10.20am Break
10.20am – 11.20am Period 2
11.20am – 12.20pm Period 3
12.20pm – 1.30pm Lunch, Lunch Break and Enrichment and Extension Activities (EE)
1.30pm – 1.40pm
Afternoon Registration
1.40pm – 2.40pm Period 4
2.40pm – 3.40pm Period 5
3.40pm Buses or EE
Attendance and Registration
Registration happens in Form rooms at 8.40am and again at 1.30pm. It is a legal requirement that students on site register at these sessions when they are on school grounds.
Where students do not have a specific lesson, assembly, tutorial, study period or school-directed event, they have the privilege to sign in later in the day as they arrive. If you are arriving after 8.45am then you must sign in at Reception. This privilege is given on the understanding that students are meeting their academic and behaviour expectations. This privilege can be removed by the Head of Sixth Form, the Assistant Head of Sixth Form, Tutors or Curriculum Area Managers where a student is significantly or persistently falling short of these expectations.
Absence
If you cannot attend school due to illness etc or if you are going to be late, please ensure that your parent or guardian:
1. Contacts the School by phone (01422 822217) or e-mail (admin@rishworth-school.co.uk) between 8.00am and 8.30am
2. Confirms by letter or email, your illness so we have accurate records
If you have an event planned which requires you to miss a day or more of school, your parents or guardians will need to complete and submit a Student Leave of Absence Request form to gain permission from the Headmaster and the Head of Sixth Form to do so.
If you feel unwell during the school day and want to miss a lesson or go home, you must first go and see the School Matron who will decide on the most appropriate course of action.
Sixth Form Study
School Work must be a top priority. You are a student and therefore your job description is to study. Your goal is to achieve the very best results you can by the end of the Upper Sixth. To do this you must work consistently hard throughout the two years. Each week, you must commit on average, at least 3 hours of personal, independent study per day beyond taught lessons (non-taught lesson time and in evenings with some also at weekends), this includes the directed Independent Study Time which is timetabled. Independent Study is an essential part of being successful. Completing the set work is only part of the expectation. You should also be spending time regularly consolidating your understanding of the topics being taught, so that learning and building up understanding is an ongoing process. A Level and BTEC work is a demanding and rewarding challenge. To meet this, you must:
• be determined, thorough, organised and self-disciplined
• meet deadlines
• ask teachers and your tutor for advice and support whenever necessary
• regularly consolidate learning
• prepare effectively for in-class assessments and Progress Week Exams
• not settle for being just “okay” but aim high
Academic Progress
Your effort, progress and attainment will be reviewed formally with Progress Week Exam Weeks. In the Lower Sixth there will be three – one in each of the terms. The Upper Sixth will have two – one in each of the first two terms. In addition, subject teachers will use in-lesson assessments throughout the two years of your Sixth Form to assess progress and inform target setting.
Subject teachers and Tutors will go through the key action points following assessments so that effective progress is made. Where necessary, when performance is below where it should be and the target grades, a variety of supportive interventions will be used.
Lower Sixth students will get End of Term Reports at the end of the first two terms, with a Parents’ Evening in the summer term.
Upper Sixth students will have a Parents’ Evening in the first two terms following the Progress Exam weeks.
University Applications or Alternative Options such as Apprenticeships
We will formally start introducing university applications and apprenticeships in the Lent Term of the Lower Sixth. All students are actively encouraged to participate in opportunities that will help build their CV, such as Leadership opportunities, the EE programme and also Work Experience in Year 12.
For those applying to university:
Students will be provided with the Rishworth School UCAS Guide and there is a comprehensive programme of support sessions throughout the following terms to ensure that the best possible applications are made. We also do an annual visit to Leeds Beckett University to attend the UCAS Exhibition in June.
The following is the key online resource we will use: www.ucas.com
The UCAS website provides information about courses, how to apply, guidance on writing Personal Statements, apprenticeships etc, and there is a Parent Section which I am sure your parents and guardians will be interested in.
For those applying for apprenticeships/jobs:
The process of applications differs from one apprenticeship or job to another. There are annual events held in Calderdale and neighbouring Local Authorities which students who are looking to follow the apprenticeship route are informed of and encouraged to attend. Competition for Post-18 apprenticeships is often very fierce. Students will be supported in the application process and can also benefit from mock interviews on request.
Example and Involvement
As young adults, we rightly expect all Sixth Form students to display a positive example in all aspects of behaviour including appearance, punctuality and work ethic. The younger students will look up to you so your example and behaviour must be stellar
Although putting A Level and BTEC study as a top priority is vital, all Sixth Form students are expected to take a full and active role in school by taking advantage of the many opportunities to build up skills such as teamwork, organisation, resilience, leadership and problem-solving. Enrichment and Extension opportunities include Sport, Charity, the Duke of Edinburgh Award (at Bronze, Silver or Gold), The Medical Society, Enhanced Project Qualification (EPQ), helping staff organise Enrichment Activities and Prefect responsibilities to name but a few.
All Sixth Form students should help to promote the Sixth Form to the younger students by being an effective role model and by assisting at Open Events.
The Enhanced Curriculum
All students in the Sixth Form will take part in Enhanced Curriculum lessons each week which will cover a wide range of topics, skills and activities. These lessons give you the opportunity to discuss, develop your understanding and reflect on important issues and will help you to successfully manage your own lives and help you to reach your future goals.
You will take part in regular PSHCE lessons (which includes RSE), with a strong focus on your wellbeing, relationships and careers. These lessons aim to equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to make informed choices, increase your self-confidence and to help everyone to become considerate and responsible young adults.
Year 12 Units
Health and wellbeing
Careers
Drugs and risk education
Positive wellbeing
Health, safety and diversity
Personal finance
Year 13 Units
Relationships and sex education
Emotional wellbeing
Personal finance
Drugs and risk education
In these lessons you will be encouraged to discuss different issues, to listen to other opinions and to share thoughts and feelings on various topics. You will develop important skills such as teamwork, researching, problem-solving and understanding the law.
Alongside this, you will have the opportunity to carry out careers research, and there will be support with UCAS or apprenticeship applications.
In Sixth Form you all have access to My Super Curricular, a website offering a one-stop shop for super curricular activities. This platform contains a wealth of quality academic resources and recommendations that will enable you to extend your knowledge and develop your intellectual curiosity.
You will have access to thousands of book recommendations, online courses, publications, links to useful websites, podcasts, videos, work experiences, competitions, university events and more all in one place. Universities now see super curricular as a compulsory element of the admissions process. Those actively extending their knowledge stand out amongst other applicants.
Work Experience
The Year 12 Work Experience Week is an important part of the Enrichment and Extension programme. Mrs Hall, Careers Coordinator, will work with the Year 12 students to organise a week of experience which is ideally relevant to apprenticeships, university courses or jobs which the students are interested in eventually applying for and which will therefore help to support applications. As part of the week, students will keep a log of what they have done and learnt.
The Sixth Form Centre Codes of Conduct Work Room
• Only for academic study during lesson time in the mornings and afternoons.
• No music, except through earphones.
• Not for social purposes.
• All books, files etc to be removed at the end of the day and either taken home or put in the lockers in the locker room.
• Room left tidy at the end of the day.
• Computers to be used for academic purposes only.
Lounge (The 6FC Social Room) – a space for relaxing and socialising and working
• Furniture to be used as intended and treated with respect (i.e. no shoes on the tables or sofas).
• Room to be kept tidy throughout the school day
• Books, files etc to be removed at the end of the day and either taken home or put in the locker room.
• Inclusive to all Sixth Form students.
• Music to be always kept at a low volume during the school day.
• No TV / YouTube etc during morning lesson time 9am-12.30pm.
• Those who wish to work can do so without distraction on the foldable tables.
• Behaviour which reflects courtesy to all, common sense and that expected as a Sixth Form student at Rishworth School.
Toilets
• Not to be used as changing rooms or social rooms.
Locker Room
• Not to be used as a Changing Room or a social area.
• Books and files to be stored in the lockers.
• Bags etc to be stored in a tidy manner.
• Room to be kept tidy
The 6FC should be kept tidy and behaviour to be appropriate so that at any time of the day, including break and lunch times, guests to the school, and staff should be able to get a very favourable impression of the Sixth Form and the 6FC
An Overview of Expectations for a Sixth Form Student
All Sixth Form students at Rishworth will effectively portray the school motto of “Res Non Verba” (“Deeds Not Words”) and follow this guidance:
• Smart by always adhering to the Dress Code when at School.
• Punctual for all aspects of the school day.
• Committed to all aspects of every A Level and BTEC and Diploma.
• Organised so that deadlines are met and all the right equipment is taken to lessons – device, pen, calculator, highlighter etc
• Self-disciplined regarding making effective use of private study.
• Pro-active with learning by regularly reading over and around the various topics you need to know and understand.
• Willing to seek out extra help and support and act positively on advice given.
• Determined to give of their best – always.
• Positively involved in several aspects of School.
• A good role model to the younger students.
• Proud of the Sixth Form Centre and therefore willing to keep it tidy.
• Proud to be a Sixth Form student at Rishworth School.
• Cooperative regarding the Sixth Form Centre Codes of Conduct and regulations.
• Friendly and respectful to all other students.
• Willing to take on responsibility positions such as School Prefect, Chairs of Charity, Captains of Sport etc.
Sixth Form Dress Code Expectations
All Sixth Formers are expected to look smart and be attired and otherwise presented in a manner which befits a professional workplace, and which does credit to the students themselves and to the School and an example to the younger students. This applies both to when students are at school and when they are representing the School in any capacity.
The following is the Dress Code guidance expected of all Sixth Form students:
• A smart tailored suit (not tight-fitting) of a dark colour (black, dark grey, brown, navy blue) comprising of a dress, skirt or trousers. Suit Jackets/Blazers must be worn at all times.
• Trousers must reach the ankles, leggings or capri pants are not acceptable.
• Male students should wear a formal collared shirt with a tie and female students are welcome to do the same
• If a skirt or dress is worn it must be of a respectable length, no shorter than a “knee above the knee”. Trousers will become compulsory for students not meeting these guidelines.
• Skirts, trousers and dresses made from stretch fabric must still allow the garment to drape and not be figure-hugging. Skirts which ride-up due to overly stretchy material and sculptured, body-hugging skirts are not acceptable.
• A smart blouse or shirt should be worn that is long enough to cover the midriff and not low cut. Undergarments should not be visible.
• If a jumper or cardigan is worn, this should be plain, dark in colour and of fine knit.
• Accessories such as waistcoats, tie clips, broaches etc can be worn.
• Shoes should be clean and smart, appropriate for a suit and not too high in the heel.
• Hair should be neat and tidy and of an appropriate length. A clean-shaven appearance is expected but a tidy, short beard is acceptable.
• Any make-up, jewellery and nail varnish should be subtle.
If a teacher or tutor feels that a Sixth Form student is not adhering to the dress code, the student in question will be referred initially to the Assistant Head of Sixth Form. In the first instance, students will be advised on how to adjust their appearance to fit the dress code. If the student continues to fail to meet the dress code expectations, they will be referred to the Head of Sixth Form. If necessary, this will be followed up with a communication home. A Sixth Form student is a role model for the younger members of the School. Therefore, continued failure to meet expectations will result in the matter becoming more of a disciplinary matter.
Sports Clothing and Equipment List
Compulsory clothing
School Rugby / Hockey Playing Shirt
School Rugby Shorts / Hockey Skort
School Games Socks
School Navy Crested Midlayer
School PE Shirt
White Sport Socks
Navy Blue Tracksuit Bottoms
Black Swim Shorts / Trunks / Costume
Optional clothing
School Waterproof Jacket
Navy Blue Waterproof Trousers
White Base Layer
Polar Fleece Beany
Navy Blue Fitness Leggings
Compulsory Games Equipment (when participating in the relevant sports)
Gum shield for Rugby / Hockey (dentally fitted, strongly recommended)*
Shin pads for Football / Hockey
Football Boots for Football / Rugby / Hockey
Hockey Stick (for girls)
Trainers
Recommended Additional Equipment (when participating in the relevant sports)
Jockstrap & Cricket Box
Left hand protective hockey glove
Rugby Scrum Cap and Upper-Body Padding
Tennis Racket
All the above items (except dentally fitted gum shields) will be available from the School Uniform Shop at www.schoolblazer.com Many of the items are also available from other outlets but in the interests of equality and uniformity, no students will be permitted to wear branded clothing (such as Nike or Adidas etc)
*Gum shields: Please note that all students will need a gum shield ahead of starting in September as hockey and rugby are the first sports played in the Michaelmas term. It is personal preference as to whether you get a dentally fitted gum shield or purchase one of the many brands on the market that are self-fit.
Well-Being
If ever you have a problem or a worry or a concern, make sure that you talk to your tutor, the relevant subject teacher, Matron, the Assistant Head of Sixth Form or the Head of Sixth Form at an early stage – a problem shared is a problem halved!
Leaving the School Grounds
As a Sixth Form student, you have the privilege of being able to leave the school campus at Break and Lunch times to visit the local shops. You must sign out and then back in again, in the book on the Head of Sixth Forms Office Door, so that we have an accurate record of who is in school and out of school. It is crucial that we have an accurate record of which students are in and out of school at all times of the school day. This is so we can account for everyone if we have a fire or evacuation emergency.
Leaving school site during non-taught time is at the discretion of the Head or Assistant Head of Sixth Form.
Leaving School Before the End of the Day
As a Sixth Form student, you have the privilege of being able to go home in the afternoon following your final lesson or commitment if this is before 3.40pm. The Head of Sixth Form will need confirmation from home that an arrangement to leave school early is acceptable.
This is a privilege which can be withdrawn if work or behaviour is failing to meet expectations.
If you do leave before 3.40pm, you must sign out at Reception so that we have an accurate record of who is on the school site.
Failure to sign in or out of school will result in the temporary removal of this privilege.
The Use of Cars
The amount of space allocated to the Sixth Form for parking is limited. Students may park on Oldham Road, adhering to public highway regulations. All Sixth Form students who drive to and from school during term time must complete a Sixth Form Driving Application Form. This is so we have a record of which Sixth Formers are driving to and from school and includes the conditions which need to be adhered to. Under normal circumstances, cars can only be used to travel to school and back home again – they are not to be used during the school day, including at break and lunch times. Where exceptional circumstances require a student to use their car during the day, this should be with the prior approval of the Head or Assistant Head of Sixth Form.
Those with Parking Permission are only able to give lifts to other students where the Head or Assistant Head of Sixth Form has authorisation from the parents or guardians. This is a condition set by the School’s Terms and Conditions.
Please be aware that as is the case for all expensive items, the School cannot be held liable for any damage to vehicles whilst parked on or near the school site.