An Inspiration Trust Academy
We care, we share, we dare to do more
Our Vision
Our vision is that every student achieves their best – this, of course, includes their academic results, but we also place high importance on developing each student as a capable and valuable member of the community.
We aim to achieve this by ensuring everyone associated with the school commits to achieving outstanding progress, and enjoys and engages in their learning while being prepared to take on a challenge without the fear of failure. Through this ethos we encourage each student to be a responsible and active member of both the school community and their local neighbourhood.
Students can create their own curriculum to suit their particular strengths as they move through the school towards their formal GCSE examinations. Our academic curriculum is supported by a huge range of extra activities such as trips and visits undertaken within subject areas, participation in music and art events, and a wide selection of sporting opportunities across a huge range of sports activities.
Our extended school day brings about additional enrichment provision, focusing on science, technology and maths, creative arts and literacy. All students have an opportunity to study something new or to build on subjects they already enjoy. They are able to choose from a variety of extra-curricular sports and hobbies run by external coaches and members of the community as well as volunteers from within the academy.
Supporting Pupils Through Every Step
Our Curriculum
Our curriculum covers a diverse range of subjects to help each student find their passions, and tailor the choice of subjects to their particular strengths. At Hethersett Academy, we aim to support our students in all aspects of their school life.
New students joining Hethersett Academy in Year 7 enjoy a structured programme of transition days. During this time, parents also have the opportunity to come along to meet the students’ form tutors.
The purpose of the transition period is to:
Introduce students to their form tutors
Meet other students
Reassure students and parents alike that they will be well cared for when they arrive at the academy
Ask academy staff any questions.
New students are also introduced to current students at Hethersett Academy who welcome the opportunity of mentoring. Our new students have dedicated cloakroom facilities and an allocated pastoral support adult and form tutor.
We aim to work with parents and carers to help our students flourish and develop into accomplished, cultured young adults over their time with us.
We support our students to be kind, work hard, take pride and embrace opportunities with formal structures that include the Student Council, Head Boy, Head Girl, and Prefects. We have consistent routines to support students’ learning in every lesson. Our vision is that students enjoy and engage in their studies - listening to their views is important in ensuring this happens.
It is important that all students achieve excellence in English, maths and science. We apply focus to numeracy and literacy skills from the moment they enter the academy.
During KS3 our students study a broad curriculum including English, biology, chemistry, physics, maths, history, geography, French, Spanish, religious education, technology, physical education, art and music. We guide students as they narrow their studies towards GCSE, ensuring they challenge their goals and make the right choices for them as individuals.
We offer a wide range of subject options, giving our students the chance to focus on their skills and interests. We constantly review our subjects and qualifications to ensure they reflect the needs of students and their future employers.
Courses recently offered include:
Applied Science
Art and Design
Biology
Chemistry
Computer Science
Design and Technology
Drama
English Language
English Literature
Enterprise and Marketing
Fashion and Textiles
Food and Nutrition
French
Further Maths
Geography
Graphics and Architecture
Health and Social Care
History
Information and Comms Technology
Maths
Music
Performing Arts
Photography
Physical Education
Physics
Religious Education
Resistant Materials
Spanish
Statistics
Our Subject Leaders work closely with the Inspiration Trust Curriculum Team to develop high-quality teaching materials that benefit our students at Hethersett Academy, as well as the many students across the Trust.
Extra-Curricular Activities
Hethersett Academy has a strong commitment to the added value of learning outside the classroom and beyond the academy’s premises. We seek to provide a broad and balanced range of ‘learning outside the classroom’ opportunities for all our students.
Each year we will arrange several activities that take place off the academy site and out of hours. These activities can include a variety of clubs: music, drama, art, sport, homework and more. We also facilitate day visits as well as local, national and overseas trips and adventure activities.
Our recent local trips have included short local coastal walks, visits to the Norfolk Broads and camping weekends. We attend the theatre and our students have also been known to visit NASA in America, tour the historic monuments of Paris, and explore the CERN laboratory and the Large Hadron Collider in Switzerland.
Our popular Combined Cadet Force gives our students the chance to learn valuable self-reliance and teamwork skills in a unique structured environment that also offers a potential career path.
Duke of Edinburgh’s
Award
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is the world’s leading achievement award for young people, aged between 14 and 24. It aims to create a world where young people can reach their full potential whatever their circumstances. Their ethos is to enable every young person of every background to do their DofE and succeed, regardless of any barriers.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award provides a balanced programme of activities that develops the whole person – mind, body and soul – in an environment of social interaction and teamworking.
Taking part builds confidence and develops self-esteem, and the award requires persistence, commitment and has a lasting impact on the attitudes and outlook of all young people who take part. We work closely with The National Citizens Service and Camps International to enable students to volunteer locally and internationally.
Music Matters at Hethersett Academy
Inspiration Trust strongly believes in the power of music to enhance lives, both through the sheer pleasure of listening to and enjoying music, and through the discipline of individual and group playing and singing.
As part of our extended Arts and Culture Programme, pupils have the opportunity to take part in a variety of plays, concerts and music competitions. As part of our commitment to music education, we also offer our students a range of lessons with
our highly-skilled and experienced team of visiting Music Teachers - these include piano, guitar, singing and drum lessons. Learning to play an instrument helps students to develop cognitive and social skills, expand language and motor skills, as well as help build determination and patience. Plus, it is fun!
Our pupils are encouraged to participate in numerous trust-wide music competitions, including Battle of the Bands, Piano Competition, and the Annual Music Competition.
An annual tradition, the Carol Service sees pupils from all across our sister schools - primaries, secondaries and sixth forms - join forces to perform a series of traditional carols and hymns in the winter term.
Always a big calendar event, the Carol Service is a fantastic opportunity for our students and staff to showcase their brilliant musical capabilities, whether through playing instruments or singing, while getting to perform in an iconic location.
The Carol Service is a fun Christmas event that always makes for a lovely family evening.
Every year our students get to take part in our Trust-wide Carol Service.
Musical Aptitude
We are delighted to offer Musical Aptitude places to Year 7 students joining us each September.
As we are passionate about music education at Hethersett Academy and the Inspiration Trust, we allocate up to 10% of places available within Year 7 to children who demonstrate an aptitude for Music at Hethersett Academy. Children who wish to be considered for an aptitude place will sit a musical aptitude test.
Music Scholarships
Those pupils who gain admission to Hethersett Academy via a music aptitude place become a music scholar and receive extra benefits.
We value music education and want to encourage musical young people. We know that musical opportunities are not always easy to find, so aim to create them for you. We understand that the whole school community benefits when musical people choose our school.
Music scholars receive all the benefits of being a pupil at our school, plus the following additional benefits:
2x free instrumental/ vocal lessons per week (if you don’t already play the piano, one of these will probably be a piano lesson)
Your music exam fees will be paid
A piano accompanist will be provided, where appropriate
Termly masterclasses with the Inspiration Trust’s Director of Music
A nominated scholarship mentor in your school
Regular performance opportunities
Regular opportunities to attend highquality performances.
To find out more and apply, visit our website.
Hethersett Academy is such a wonderful school, I feel that every teacher pushes me to do the best I can possibly do - everyone goes above and beyond to make sure you get the most out of your learning.
PUPIL
Student Voice
We believe that students play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Hethersett Academy. Students from all years take part in setting the agenda for the school, with leadership opportunities built into a structure that mirrors the staff leadership structure.
Student Council
Students wishing to join the Student Council are encouraged to put their name forward to a lottery to be selected at random. The selected candidates are then put to a vote by the current student body, to decide the chosen members. This process ensures that everyone has an equal opportunity.
Members of the Student Council are held to high standards by the student body, with 100% attendance expected at Student Council meetings, and to be a responsible student who others respect, and to work to make the school a better place for all.
The opportunity includes working as part of a team, representing peers, developing listening skills, improving self-confidence and public speaking, and leading on putting these ideas into action.
Student Senate
The Student Senate are the student body that meets with the Principal to present ideas and opinions from their peers. Student Council members who wish to serve on the Senate put forward why they should be selected, and are voted for by the whole student cohort, and staff.
Our House System
At Hethersett Academy, we are extremely proud of the House System we have created and the attached values. It embodies all that we stand for and is the vehicle in which our culture is lived through each day. It encourages pupil development through access to a wide range of experiences and motivates students to work together to share ideas, allowing them to learn from each other.
Each of our Houses has a House Leader and every pupil and staff member is expected to be part of a House.
We operate a year-group-based pastoral structure, with each Year group led by a Head of Year, Assistant Year Lead, and an Assistant Principal acting as SLT link. Every student is also allocated to one of four Houses which students represent through participation in termly competitions and fundraising events. Our Houses are named after notable people in our local community:
Perkins (Green) - named after Mel Perkins MBE; the founder and champion of a number of sporting clubs in Hethersett.
Dannatt (Blue) - named after Lady Phillippa Dannatt; first female Lord Lieutenant of Norfolk, and resident of Keswick.
Jordan (Red) - named after Richard Jordan; award-winning theatre producer and former Hethersett High student.
Edwards (Yellow) - named after Dr Anne Edwards BEM; research scientist at the John Innes Centre, making advances in the identification of plant diseases.
Taking Part in Trust-Wide Sports Competitions
At Inspiration Trust we pride ourselves on our sports provision which not only includes a nationally-recognised sports curriculum, but includes half-termly Trust-wide sports competitions.
These competitions include football, athletics, swimming and rugby, and sees us working in partnership with brilliant local organisations such as the UEA Sportspark and The Nest in order to offer our students the very best facilities in which to compete. The atmosphere at these events is always described as electric!
Through taking part in sporting competitions our students are given the chance to shine outside of the classroom and learn vital skills such as the importance of team work, determination, patience and perseverance.
It is also proven that taking part in sport encourages higher standards of achievement, improves cognitive function and improves overall well-being through having fun and making friendships.
Whilst outstanding sports provision is often overlooked within the state sector, all of us at Hethersett Academy believe it is a core part of what every pupil should expect from their time in education and we are proud to deliver that.
Secondary Olympiads
All pupils have the opportunity to be involved in our Trust-wide Olympiads. These see pupils compete in competitions within their favourite subjects, allowing them to shine in areas where they are gifted.
One of our strategic aims is to ensure each and every child fulfils their potential. We believe this potential is not only reached through academic success, but through wider opportunities such as competitive programmes.
Our Olympiads cover everything from maths and modern foreign languages through to geography and computer science. They help children learn about teamwork and morals, and offer a fun, alternative way to explore the subjects they love.
Our Uniform School Meals
At Hethersett Academy, break and lunch times are staggered throughout the day. This prevents overcrowding in the canteen and allows all students to have the opportunity to sit down to eat their lunches. Students are not permitted to leave the school site for lunch.
Students have the option to purchase a variety of delicious hot and cold meals daily from our canteen. Alternatively, students can bring a packed lunch from home.
There are three lunch breaks - the 12.15pm to 12.45pm break is for students in Years 7 and 10. From 12.45pm to 1.15pm Year 9 have their lunch break and the 1.15pm to 1.45pm break is for students in Year 8 and 11.
“Hethersett Academy continues to be Outstanding. Pupils flourish at this school.
OFSTED
2022
”The academy day starts with Morning Motivation and Tutor Time, enabling students to settle in and focus on the day’s work ahead. Tutors are able to get to know their students so that they can support them appropriately through the year.
Our timetable has 28 teaching hours per week, divided into one-hour classes. On Monday and Friday the day comprises of five lessons and on a Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, students have six lessons.
Team sports currently take place on a Monday and Friday after school. A late bus to Mulbarton and surrounding villages is available for students when there is a later finish time.
Our uniform is smart and traditional. We encourage our students to take pride in their appearance and to be proud of belonging to Hethersett Academy.
You can order your uniform from our supplier, Stevensons, on their website or at their Norwich-based store. Our uniform includes:
Plain black blazer with academy badge on breast pocket
Plain white shirt (short or long sleeved), tucked in at all times
Plain black full-length trousers
Hethersett Academy tie
Plain black leather or leather-look shoes (trainers, canvas shoes, boots, branded shoes, high heels or pumps are not permitted)
Plain black socks below the knee or plain black, neutral colour or black opaque tights when wearing a skirt
Plain black v-neck jumper (optional).
In the autumn and summer terms, Hethersett Academy tailored shorts or knee-length skirts are permitted.
Our PE kit includes:
Red or black polo shirt with red or black logo (compulsory)
Black shorts with red or black logo (compulsory)
Black socks (compulsory)
Black hooded top with red or black logo (optional)
Black rain jacket with red or black logo (optional)
Black track trousers (optional)
Black skort with red or black logo (optional).
Preparing our Students for their Next Steps
We begin a student’s career journey in Year 7 where we support students to understand themselves, their interests, likes and dislikes, what they are good at and how this affects the choices they make.
We help students to find out about the local labour market, as well as different local and national courses, qualifications and opportunities that they may be interested in currently and in the future.
As part of our Careers Programme we offer our students workshops, career weeks, talks from local businesses and alumni, work experience, and one-on-one guidance with a careers advisor.
Post 16 Provision and Sixth Form
As part of the Inspiration Trust, our students have opportunities to pursue A-Level courses at two of the most prestigious sixth forms in Norfolk, Jane Austen College Sixth Form and Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form.
Jane Austen College Sixth Form
Jane Austen College has been established in recent years as one of Norfolk’s top sixth forms, with students consistently achieving some of the county’s leading results. The sixth form specialises in English, humanities and the arts, with students benefiting from outstanding expertise and facilities.
Offering excellent teaching and academic support, students also have the opportunity to get involved in a wide range of societies and electives. The college is a vibrant, diverse, and social community, whether you choose to join the debating society or choir, or get involved with sports clubs or drama productions, students are able to develop their passions.
Sir
Isaac Newton Sixth Form
Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form is one of the UK’s best sixth forms, specialising in Science and Mathematic provision. Rated Ofsted Outstanding, the A-Level provider has an academic focus inspiring the next generation of leaders in STEM industries.
At Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form, students learn from experts in their field and benefit from state-of-the-art facilities. Students receive the very best learning opportunities to achieve the very best outcomes. Bespoke support is provided to every pupil, helping them to develop into a scholar and a wellrounded, happy young adult.
Both Sir Isaac Newton and Jane Austen College Sixth Form courses are rated Outstanding by Ofsted, and students benefit from their unique partnership with the opportunity to explore courses at both sixth forms.
Their city centre locations provide easy transport links and a thriving social environment. Their iconic and extensively redeveloped buildings are tailored to their specialisms.
SEND Support
At Hethersett Academy, we are aware of the needs of each individual student and recognise that we have a responsibility to support every pupil to achieve their potential.
At Hethersett Academy we are committed to ensuring that learners with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are fully included in the life of the school and are able to thrive academically and socially.
If your child has an identified special educational need or an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), the first step is to talk to our Key Stage 3 SENCO.
They can give you an overview of the kinds of reasonable adjustments and provisions for learners with SEND at Hethersett Academy to ensure that they can access the curriculum and enrichment opportunities.
For more detailed information about what our academy does to support learners with SEND, please read our SEND Information Report on our website.
Pastoral and Safeguarding
Every student is important to us and we ensure we identify and support each student’s needs.
Our pastoral system provides clear support for each child, from their form tutor to the senior leader in charge of care and guidance. Academic mentoring is provided for students to help them achieve their goals.
We currently have 20 Anti-Bullying Mentors who offer support to students, and our Spiritual, Moral, Social, Cultural (SMSC) programme addresses bullying regularly. Hethersett Academy was recently awarded the ‘B.I.G’ National Award for excellence in challenging bullying.
At Hethersett Academy, we are committed to keeping our students safe and happy. Our Designated Safeguarding Lead ensures that effective support is provided to students that need it and our strong pastoral system
ensures that all students are well known and their needs understood.
We work in close partnership with parents and provide regular access to progress data as well as the opportunity to come into school to meet and speak to teachers about the progress their child is making.
Communication between school and home is critical to ensuring the right support is given to enable the student to make outstanding progress. Throughout the year, we organise specific year group events to keep you informed of progress. We also arrange events to coincide with important times in students’ school lives where they are making choices that will impact their future.
The Admissions Process
Most students join us at the start of Year 7, however we do accept students mid-year or into other year groups when we have capacity to do so. Applying for a place at Hethersett Academy is straightforward and as with all secondary schools in Norfolk is organised through Norfolk County Council.
The process tends to begin in the autumn of the year prior to when the student wishes to start with applications closing at the end of October. Norfolk County Council then allocates places with offers sent out at the beginning of March. Should more students apply than we have places, spaces will be allocated based on our admissions policy of which can be found on our website - hethersettacademy.org/admissions.
Admissions Team, County Hall Martineau Lane Norwich NR1 2DL
Telephone: 0344 800 8020
Email: admissions@norfolk.gov.uk
We are part of Inspiration Trust, twice ranked the country’s top family of comprehensive schools for pupil progress
