SVF Focus Autumn 2017

RAISING ASPIRATIONS PAGES 3 AND 4

Autumn Term 2017

MARVELLOUS MATHS PAGES 5, 6 AND 7

THE TERMLY MAGAZINE OF THE SEATON VALLEY FEDERATION

SVF FOCUS 01

AUTUMN 2017

SVF FOCUS 02

JOHN BARNES WELCOME

INTRODUCING SCHOOL GATEWAY

Welcome

From January 2018 we are introducing School Gateway, an electronic school communication system, across all three Seaton Valley Federation schools.

Welcome to the first edition of SVF Focus for 2017/18. As I write the nights are drawing in, first frosts have occurred, Bonfire Night and Halloween have passed and we’re heading to the end of the longest term in the year and the arrival of Christmas!

I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate all students on their summer exam results and say a huge thank you to the staff who worked so hard to support our students.

Many exciting things have happened this term and our students have been a credit to the three schools as have their parents and carers. It continues to be a pleasure to work with our school community.

Our open evening for the three schools was held in October. I always enjoy meeting prospective students and parents so that they can see the quality education and extra-curricular opportunities that we offer across the Federation. If you weren’t able to join us, please contact the relevant Head of School and they will be more than willing to show you around.

We are launching School Gateway across SVF in January 2018. This new method of parent/carer contact is designed to improve communication between home and school. Further details are on the next page and I encourage you to read this as we believe that School Gateway has the power to make everyone’s life easier.

Successful charity events raised funds for various causes this term including the MacMillan Coffee Morning; always a great favourite of mine with the delicious cakes baked and donated. Yet again I was blown away by the generosity of all associated with the Federation. Thank you.

We strive to raise aspirations across the SVF and I ask for your help to ensure our young people have the highest aspirations for what they can achieve. You will see some of the things we are doing on pages 3 and 4; the more support and help you can give in this area is of huge benefit. As you know the only limiting factor on our young people are the limits they place on themselves. Let’s help them to remove those self-imposed limits!

The Spotlight in this issue is Maths. We are very lucky to have three extremely strong Maths teams in the Federation. Maths teaching and learning has changed so much since many of us were at school! It’s great to see the work that our dedicated Maths teams are doing for the pupils across the federation and how much our pupils enjoy Maths.

I’m honoured to be the Executive Head Teacher of the Seaton Valley Federation and see the fantastic work that each of our schools do. It’s always a privilege to show visitors around and hear their comments on how hard working our students are. The most important part of my job is working with the wonderful students that we have across the SVF. We look forward to 2018 and have high hopes for all associated with the SVF. We have much to look forward to; students preparing for and doing well in exams but most importantly the continued efforts to make each students time in the SVF a happy and successful one. May I remind you of the importance of ensuring that your children attend school; good attendance is one of the most important factors in helping your child fulfil their potential.

I wish everyone a super Christmas and a wonderful New Year. Thank you for the support and encouragement that you give to the students, the school and myself.

John Barnes Executive Headteacher Seaton Valley Federation

AUTUMN 2017

This will enable you to receive all your information from school quickly and reliably. We can send letters by email to your inbox and short messages directly to your mobile phone and, if necessary, you can reply the same way too!

If you have an Apple or Android mobile phone this will be via a free app, otherwise this will be via text message. You will also be able to make payments via Instant Bank Transfer, through the app or online, as well as view lunch account balances.

WITH SCHOOL GATEWAY You will • • • • • • • • •

Receive letters more reliably and promptly See letters in your inbox like any other email Get a short text or app message if we need to contact you urgently See your child’s timetable for the current week Not need to rely on your child for delivery Be able to reply by email or text Send us any reasons for absence via app, text or email Top up your son/daughter’s lunch acount quickly and easily, as well as monitor their spending Still get paper letters if you don’t have email

We can

Term Dates SEATON VALLEY FEDERATION Christmas holiday School finishes on Friday 22 December 2017 and reopens on Tuesday 9 January 2018.

Monday 8 January is a teacher training day.

Mid-spring term holiday School finishes on Friday 9 February and reopens on Monday 19 February 2018.

Easter holiday School finishes on Thursday 29 March and reopens on Tuesday 17 April 2018. Monday 16 April is a teacher training day.

•

Send more letters and information regarding your child/ren

• •

Save money on administration time, printing and paper Contact you urgently when necessary

DOWNLOAD THE FREE APP Please search for “School Gateway” in your phone’s App Store and download the free School Gateway app ready for the launch in January.

If you have any questions or concerns please contact us at: schoolgateway@svlp.org.uk

SVF FOCUS 03

AUTUMN 2017

RAISING ASPIRATIONS

CAREERS WORKSHOP AT SEATON SLUICE MIDDLE SCHOOL With high school beckoning and “Options” looming, Y8 pupils spend some of their final half term at SSMS considering what they might like to do when they leave school.

NoteveryoneinY8knowswhattheywanttodowhentheyleave schoolbutourpupilscertainlystartedthinkingaboutwhich directiontheymightwanttogoinandwhatpathstheycouldtaketo getthere.

Pupilstakepartinaseriesofworkshopswheretheyexaminetheir aspirationsforthefutureandhowbesttoworktowardsthese.

MissStaines

SVF FOCUS 04

EXAMS SUPPORT AT ASTLEY COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL

The challenge of examinations is always a stressful time for students and parents/carers. However, an event on 2 November for Y11 students organised by Mr Gilhooley was designed to support everyone to achieve more and raise aspirations in Maths, English and Science.

Insummer2017,guestspeakersfromNewcastleUniversity presentedthepossibilityofHigherEducationforconsiderationand someclassroombasedactivitieshelpedpupilstomatchtheir strengthsandintereststosuitablecareeroptions,whichtheythen hadtheopportunitytoresearchinmoredetail.

AUTUMN 2017

Withsixstafffromthosedepartmentsdeliveringtwentyminute workshopsonhowtosucceedinthevarioussubjects,weareconfident thateveryonetooklotsofusefulinformationawaywiththem.

Inaddition,individualcareersinterviewsfromourhighlyqualifiedexpert EileenReidhavestartedforY11.Studentswillalsobespeakingtothe SeniorLeadershipTeamaboutchoicesfornextyearandtheirpersonal aimsandgoals.Hopefully,ACHSwillbethepreferreddestination,with manyjoiningourthrivingSixthForm.

Anothersignificantdevelopmentthistermhasbeentheappointmentof ourSixthFormHeadBoy,RyanandHeadGirl,Jade.Theirdeputiesare KieranandGemma.Thesepositionsareveryimportantinproviding visiblerolemodelsforallofourstudentsandgettingthemtoaimhigh.

Therewasaformalapplicationandinterviewprocesstogothroughforall thirteenSixthFormstudentswhoapplied.Welldonetoyouallforputting yourselfforwardandcongratulationstothesuccessfulcandidates!

OneofthegreatestchallengeswefaceinraisingaspirationsatACHS revolvesaroundattendance.Inrecentyears,wehaveseenadeclinein attendancerates,whichultimatelyhasanegativeeffectonachievement.I encourageallstudentsandtheirparents/carerstodoeverythingwithin yourpowerstoensurethatattendanceisatleast95%foreverystudent.

TherewillbeanevengreaterfocusonattendancethisyearatACHS.

Somepracticalinterviewexperience,ina“speeddating”format, helpedpupilstounderstandtheprocessofrecruitingaswellasto considerhowbesttopresentthemselvestoaprospective employer.

A ‘GROWTH MINDSET’ AND MORE AT WHYTRIG MIDDLE SCHOOL The role of anyone associated with a school is to raise the aspirations of the youngsters in their care so that they can go on and be as successful as they can be. That is at the heart of our ethos and values.

We do not accept not trying and we are never ashamed of doing well and being proud in doing well.

Ourprogrammeoftripsandvisitorsintoschoolsupportourpupilsto makethemostoftheireducationandastheymovethroughWMSwe wantthemtohavetheopportunitytotakeonmoreresponsibility, whichtheydothroughpositionssuchasSchoolCouncillors,Sports Leaders,Prefects,HouseCaptainsandHeadBoyandGirlinY8.

Wedothinkourpupilsbuyintobeingsuccessful,iftheamountof awardshandedoutinassembliesisanythingtogoby!Wehavea tieredmeritsystemandlastyeararecordnumbersofbadgeswere handedouttopupilsachievinginallareasacrossourschool.This year,wehavealsointroducedanawardcalled‘StarofTheWeek’ whichisawardedtoanindividualineachformclassforspecial recognitioneachweek.

Ourbehaviourpolicyhasbeenupdatedthisyearwithagreaterfocus aroundrespect,sopupilscanbetheirbestacademicallyandintheir behaviour.Oneofthekeyareaswherewehopetoseeacontinued improvementisinhowourpupilsrespectthemselves,bycomingto schoolwitha‘cando’approachandtheresiliencetogivethingsatry, evenifitdoesn’tquiteworkout.

Anareawearelookingtofurtherdevelopthisyearistheprincipleof ourchildrenandstaffhavinga‘growthmindset’sothattheyhavethe rightskillsetandattitudestobeabletodealwithanychallengesthat theyarefacedwithnowandintheyearstocome.

MrSouter

ASPIRATIONS IN AND BEYOND SIXTH FORM Lots of initiatives have taken place this term to raise aspirations amongst our senior students.

Our new Head Girl, Head Boy and their deputies will play a crucial role as ambassadors for the federation in the coming year.

NewcastlebasedadvertisingagencyEverythingDifferentprovided someofourmostcreativestudentswithanopportunitytospendaday workingintheindustrytogainsomeoutstandingworkexperience.

Thedayinvolvedlearningaboutallaspectsonadvertisingincluding; DataAnalytics,MediaBuying,GraphicDesign,ProjectManagement andMarketing.

DurhamUniversitycametospeaktoourY12studentsabouttheir excellentSupportedProgressionSchemethisterm.Y12studentswho areeligibletoapplycanbenefitfromanintensivetwoyearoutreach programmeofacademic,residentialandsocialeventsthatare designedtodebunkmythsaboutuniversitylifeandtoencourage pupilstoapplytothebestuniversities.HeadGirlJadecompletedthe SupportedProgressionprogrammeandreceivedanoffertostudy

ChemistryatDurhaminSeptembernextyear.

Forfurtherdetailsoneligibilityandhowtoapplyvisit: https://www.dur.ac.uk/supported.progression/ StAnne'sCollege,UniversityofOxfordcametoACHSinOctoberand gaveatalkontheapplicationprocessforOxfordandCambridgetoa groupofY11andY12students.Theysharedinformationonlifeat OxfordrangingfromthedifferentaccommodationinOxford's numerouscollegestocareerprospectsandteachingmethods.Many studentsleftthesessionwithafarmorepositiveviewoftheirchances ofapplyingtotheseprestigiousuniversities.

TheSocialMobilityFoundationdeliveredapresentationrecentlyon theirAspiringProfessionalsProgramme(APP)whichisdesignedto supportyoungpeopletogainworkexperience,givearealinsightinto topprofessionsandprovidethemwiththeskillsneededtoachieve theiraspirations.ProfessionsthatarecoveredbytheAPPprogramme include:Accountancy,Architecture,BankingandFinance,Biologyand Chemistry,Business,EngineeringandPhysics,Law,Mediaand Communications,Medicine,PoliticsandTechnology.

Forfurtherdetailsoneligibilityandhowtoapplyvisit: http://www.socialmobility.org.uk/programmes/

SVF FOCUS 05

MARVELLOUS MATHS MATHS AT SSMS

At SSMS Maths is taught in sets across both key stages. There is a big focus on problem solving and reasoning.

In KS2 we use Abacus, a tried and tested scheme, and in KS3 we have taken up a new scheme from Pearson which focuses on these specific skills without losing any of the curriculum’s content. It’s early days but teachers have reported back that they feel the scheme is very beneficial, especially to the children who need some extra input.

Homework in KS3 is completed online from home so that parents can see the level at which their children are learning, and children can discuss with their teachers where they experienced difficulty, or found things easy. This prepares the children for independent learning and study, and will help towards a future where mathematics and technology will play a very big part in the workforce.

AUTUMN 2017

Mrs Long Mrs Long was born in Ryton and now lives in Blyth, with her husband and three grown up children. She studied at Northumbria University qualifying as a Primary School Teacher in 2003, when she became a Year 6 teacher at Seaton Sluice Middle School. She is now Assistant Head of KS2 and Head of Maths.

Q.Whatdidyouwanttobewhenyouweregrowingup?

A.Anyjobtodowithhorses;Iwastootalltobeajockeythough,but wantedtoworkwithhorses.Ialsolikedtheideaofteaching.

Q.Whatjobwouldyouhavewantedtodoifyouhadn’tbecomea teacher?

A.IhadanotherjobasaMotorBrokerinthefinanceindustrybefore becomingateacherandthatwasOK.IthinkImighthavegoneinto nursingasmymumwasaPsychiatricNurseandIalwaysadmiredher.

Q.Whathasbeenyourhighlightof2017?

A.GettingtoknowmygranddaughterEmilia.Shewasbornin2016but changeseverytimeIseeher,soit’slovelywatchinghergrow.

Q.Whatisthemostimportantlessonlifehastaughtyou?

A.Educationisforlife!ANDifsomeoneseespotentialinyou,believe whattheyaretellingyou!Manychildrenfeelpressuredintogoingto universityatage18sochoosesubjectsthattheydon’tknowwhereit willleadthemto.MyMathsteachertriedtopersuademetobecomea teacher,butIneverthoughtIwascleverenough.SoIdidn’tgoto universityuntilmuchlaterinlife,hisfaithinmenever leftme,thenone dayIthought,“Icandothis,Icanbecomeateacher,”soIresignedfrom myjobinfinanceandwenttouniversity.ThebestthingIeverdid,I shouldhavebelievedhim.

Q.Whatthreethingswouldyoutaketoadesertisland?

A.Alargeboat,askippertodriveitandanescapemap.I’dbeabit uselessonadesertislandsowouldhavetogetaway.

Q.Whatsongdoyousingintheshower?

A.UsuallythelastsongIheardonthedrivehome.Ilikelotsoftypesof musicsoitcouldbeanything.AttheminuteIamtryingtoremember allthenurseryrhymestosingtoEmilia,sooftenrehearsethose.

Q.Whatisyourfavouritecountry?

A.OhthisistoughasI’vebeenluckyenoughtohavetravelledto probably40+countriesandhaveneverhadabadholiday.Ihaveloved everyoneofthemfordifferentreasons.ButIdoreturntoItalymore thananyothercountrysoIsupposeItalyisprobablymyfavouritesofar.

Q.WhatisyourfavouriteMathstopicsubject?

A.Algebra–it’stheworld’slanguage,itdoesn’thavetobetranslated intoanyotherlanguage,itisunderstoodrightacrosstheglobe.It’sabit likecode-cracking,challengingbutrewardingwhenitfinallysinksin.

Q.WhathasbeenthehighlightofyourtimesofarworkingatSSMS? A. Helpingoutwithschoolproductionsandresidentialtrips,allthefun stuffreally.IwasoncerecommendedforaNationalTeachersAward andthatmademeveryhumbleandproud.

Q.HowdoyouimagineMathsatSSMSinthefuture?

A.IthinkMathswillbecomeevencloserlinkedtoscienceand engineering.IwouldliketoseeMathstaughtthroughengineering projects,somethingforchildrentogethandsonexperienceofinstead ofclassbasedMathematics.

SVF FOCUS 06

MARVELLOUS MATHS MATHS AT WMS

The first half-term at WMS has been an incredibly busy and exciting one for KS2 Mathematicians!

We are delighted to have embarked on a ‘Teaching for Mastery’ programme, involving working with a specialist to develop approaches to encourage a deeper understanding of Mathematics.

This half-term one pupil from each class travelled to the Centre for Life in Newcastle with Mrs Lowden to take part in a Maths workshop. The children worked collaboratively on a range of maths puzzles and problems.

Ryan stated that, “The day really got my brain going and I had to think hard.” He enjoyed trying out the card trick that they learnt using maths on his mum, as did Rachel with me and her classmates.

We have been struggling with challenging problems using bar models (me included!) during Barvember from White Rose Maths. We also have the Primary Maths Challenge upcoming this week with thirty pupils competing against each other and other pupils around the country to tackle challenging problems. Good luck to all involved!

AUTUMN 2017

Mrs Kerridge Mrs Kerridge grew up in Cramlington before moving to Blyth several years ago. She feels like a bit of a local; her Dad comes from Seaton Delaval and several family members attended WMS. Her Granda attended school at the old WMS site of Western Avenue around 80 years ago! Mrs Kerridge studied Maths and French at Newcastle University, spending time living in France as part of this. She then gained a Primary PGCE specialising in French and started working at WMS in 2010.

Q. What did you want to be when you were growing up?

A. I was never very certain, but did want to be a nurse or a doctor at one point – until I realised that I can’t stand the sight of blood or anything like that! I did thoroughly enjoy my Y9 work experience at a nursing home and definitely wanted to help people.

Q. What job would you have liked to do if you hadn't become a teacher?

A. I would love to run my own eco-friendly play café with delicious home-made cakes and hot tea for the parents, and gorgeous toys and books for the little ones, in comfortable, warm surroundings.

Q. How has 2017 been for you?

A. 2017 has been a challenging but enjoyable year, juggling being a Mammy to my two-year-old, Thomas and working part-time. It has been slightly quieter, after moving house and having my son, all within a couple of weeks, at the end of 2015!

Q. What is the most important lesson life has taught you?

A. All you can do is your best! You can’t change the past so I rarely have regrets, but you need to learn and adapt to improve. Life is short so try to make the most of things.

Q. What three things would you take to a desert island?

A. I’m a home person so would have to take my family. I love nice food, so there’s another must! I get homesick easily so a boat would be essential in order to leave when the holiday is over.

Q. What song do you sing in the shower?

A. Anything that’s in my head – badly! I love a range of music, some older and some current, from Dire Straits to Ed Sheeran.

Q. What is your favourite thing about Maths?

A. I enjoy solving challenging problems and love the feeling of satisfaction when a problem is solved!

Q. What do you enjoy most about working at WMS? A. The past seven years have flown over! The thing that makes WMS great is the people – staff and pupils.

Q. How do you imagine Maths at WMS in the future?

A. I hope that we can continue to engage the interest and encourage enjoyment of children in Maths lessons and beyond. We will adapt and aim to be the best that we can so that pupils can reach their potential and gain a deep understanding of Mathematics.

AUTUMN 2017 SUMMER

SVF FOCUS 07

MARVELLOUS MATHS MATHS AT ACHS

We have a keen bunch of Y9 Mathematicians, with fabulous algebra skills. We have been finding areas and perimeters of every possible shape; thinking about accuracy, estimation and rounding, and using bar models for tricky ratio problems.

The grid investigation displayed impressive problem solving skills too. Ryan and Owen were selected for Royal Institution Maths Master Classes – Modelling the Gherkin, Maths and Architecture was the title of the first one.

Y10 are realising how much hard work is needed to succeed with the new 9-1 GCSE. There has been a big focus on fluency and recall of key facts, and great perseverance with new topics such as Venn Diagrams.

Y11 students have been preparing for trial examinations using websites like Corbett Maths for independent revision and practice. Over 80 students and parents/carers attended workshops in school to share strategies for GCSE Maths, English and Science success. 20 of these students are already attending Maths breakfast club at 8am every Friday. Devoted! Students from Mr Rochester’s class took part in the Senior Maths Challenge. Fingers crossed for some gold awards.

Sixth Form Maths and Further Maths students are working cooperatively at our Tuesday night study group. A Q&A session with former student Erin, now studying Mechanical Engineering at Sheffield University, shared useful tips on how to secure an A* in A level Maths.

Y12 student, James, who achieved grade 9 in GCSE Maths and A** in GCSE Further Maths, has secured a place at Newcastle University to study Further Maths A level. He’s a credit to ACHS.

Mr Rochester Mr Rochester grew up in Wallsend and went to St Thomas More in North Shields. He studied Maths, Further Maths, German, Ethics and Philosophy at A level before going on to study International Management and German at the University of Bath. He worked as Student Support at Whitley Bay High School before training as a Maths Teacher. He joined ACHS as Lead Practitioner in 2016.

Q.Whatdidyouwanttobewhenyouweregrowingup?

A.Aswithmostpeople,Iwantedtodojustabouteveryjobatsomepoint oranother:doctor,teacher,fireman,actor. Ialmostruledoutteaching untilIstartedworkinginaschoolandfoundthatIreallyenjoyedworking withyoungpeopleandthatteachingwastherightjobforme.

Q.Whatjobwouldyouhavelikedtodoifyouhadn'tbecomeateacher?

A.Thisisareallyhardquestion,asInowcan’timaginebeinganythingbut ateacher.IsuspectthatifIhadn’tbecomeateacher,Iwouldhaveworked ininternationalmarketing,asIhavesomeexperienceofthatandcould alsousemylanguageskills.

Q.Whathasbeenyourhighlightof2017?

A. It’sbeenabusyyear,butthehighlightwasdefinitelygettingmarriedin April.Itmightbeacliché,butitreallywasthebestdayeverandwentby soquickly!

Q.Whatisthemostimportantlessonlifehastaughtyou?

A.Totakeeveryopportunitythatispresentedtoyou,asyouoftendon’t getasecondchance.Ifitdoesn’tworkout,atleastyoucansayyoutried.

Q.Whatthreethingswouldyoutaketoadesertisland?

A.Myphone,myKindleandmywife–IwoulddefinitelybeintroubleifI wentofftoahot,sunnydesertislandandleftherbehind.

Q.Whatsongdoyousingintheshower?

A.Usually,whateverwasthelastthingIheardontheradioortheTV.I don’tlimitmyselftojustsingingintheshowerthough.Ilivebythe philosophythatlifeismorefunifit’slikeamusical!

Q.WhatisyourfavouriteMathssubject?

A.IamabigfanofPythagorastheorem–whatalegendthatmanis!He lived2500yearsago,yetmostpeoplestillknowwhoheis. Ialsolove surds.OnceyouhitAlevel,Ilovecomplexnumbers,asIfinditfascinating thatusinganimaginarynumberisthefoundationformuchofthe engineeringandbuildingweseearoundus–whichisdefinitelyveryreal!

Q.Whatisthescariestthingyou’veeverdone?

A.IspentayearlivingandworkinginGermanyaspartofmydegree.I canrememberbeingabsolutelyterrifiedwhenIwaswaitinginthe airport;theprospectofmovingtoaforeigncountryonmyownandnot knowinganyonewasveryoverwhelming.Itallturnedoutwellintheend thoughandwasanamazingexperience–Iwouldrecommenditto anyone.

Q.WhathasbeenthehighlightofyourtimesofarworkingatACHS? A. I’veenjoyedtheexperienceofworkinginasmallschool,asthestaff andstudentsareasmallcommunityandyoufeellikeyoucangettoknow everybody. Mypreviousschoolhadover1600students,soitwasmuch hardertogettoknowstudentsunlessyoutaughtthem.

Q.HowdoyouimagineMathsatACHSinthefuture?

A.Mathshasfacedsomechallengesoverthelastyearwiththenew GCSEcourseandnow,thenewAlevelcourses. However,therewere fantasticresultslastyearandIhopethatmorestudentslookatthisand realisethatMathsissomethingtheycansucceedinandthatwecan encourageevenmorestudentsstudyingbothMathsandFurtherMathsA level.

AUTUMN 2017

SVF FOCUS 08

INTRODUCING THE CURRICULUM AND PERFORMANCE COMMITTEE Chair of the Curriculum and Performance Committee Susan Dungworth Susan Dungworth is Chair of the Curriculum and Performance Committee and is keen to see all the pupils in the Federation reach their full potential.

The Curriculum and Performance Committee is responsible for keeping a check on the progress and achievements of all pupils and to ensure the curriculum at all ages is broad and balanced.

The committee meets every term to look at assessment information for each year group and to hear from teaching staff about plans to improve teaching for pupils.

How many governors are on the Curriculum and Performance Committee?

The Curriculum and Performance Committee is made up of five members who all have the required skills and relevant experience to allow them to make and support the schools’ decisions and also monitor progress. The members are: Susan Dungworth, John Barnes, Justin Brewitt, Josephine Kulke and Alan Coulson. The committee meets each half term.

The three Heads of School are Associate Members and also attend these committee meetings as there are often specific areas concerning their school on the agenda.

What are the key areas the Curriculum and Performance Committee Monitors?

School Development Plan • • •

Monitoring Evaluation Reports from the School Improvement Partner and any other external reports

National Curriculum • • •

Appropriate arrangements for RE and collective worship and sex and relationships education Which subject options should be taught with regard to resources The quality of the curriculum in terms of securing high standards of progress and achievement

General • • • • •

The effectiveness of leadership and management The impact of quality of teaching and learning on rates of progress and standards of achievement The impact of appraisal and continuing professional development on improving the quality of teaching and learning The impact of any actions or interventions taken to address differential standards of achievement or rates of progress between groups of students (e.g. gender, SEND, pupil premium, children in care, more able) The impact of specific funding streams for Pupil Premium, PE and Sports Premium, Y7 catch-up funding and SEND

Head of School WMS and Lead for Data, Curriculum and Assessment Years 5-13

Mr Souter is responsible for providing strategic leadership for data regarding student progress and achievement for Years 5-13 and curriculum and timetabling across ACHS and WMS.

SVF FOCUS 09

AUTUMN 2017

SEATON SLUICE MIDDLE SCHOOL OUR LATEST NEWS HEAD OF SCHOOL MRS LINDLEY

SVF FOCUS 10

AUTUMN 2017

SEATON SLUICE MIDDLE SCHOOL OUR LATEST NEWS

DELIGHTFUL DESIGNS

MACMILLAN COFFEE MORNING

For the second year running, pupils at SSMS were given the opportunity to design and have professionally printed their very own, unique Christmas card using a scheme ran by MyArtProject.

THANK YOU

It’s almost 100 days since almost 100 new faces joined SSMS – and, reflecting on the term, what a lot has happened! One of the things I’m personally most proud of is our pupils’ behaviour and consideration towards others, in terms of helping new people settle in and also supporting those in our community and beyond.

This term there have been plenty of opportunities for us to help those less fortunate than ourselves, whilst having fun. This includes the legendary annual Fun Run, Children in Need and our Harvest Festival, led by Rev. Bowler. We are also setting up a Food Bank station in school, where donations will be passed on to the Blyth Food Bank for distribution. The feedback from members of the public is truly heart-warming and what a credit to the school our pupils are.

Thank you all, pupils, parents and friends for working alongside us to make these things happen.

Mrs Lindley

LEST WE FORGET

In the Autumn Term we hold some events in school to support people less fortunate than ourselves. Our Harvest Festival took place in October, where Rev David Bowler led an assembly based upon giving.

In September SSMS were involved in the ‘World’s Biggest Coffee Morning’ to help raise money for Macmillan Cancer Care.

A number of special cakes became raffle prizes. We invited family members into school to enjoy a cuppa and the cakes, as well as members of the local community. They were served by some of the school Prefects and a good time was had by all. Overall, we raised £432!

Mrs McSparron

We received many donations which were distributed to nominated relatives and friends, community members and residential care homes in Seaton Sluice and New Hartley.

Pupils also made a great effort on Children in Need Day. With everyone wearing non-uniform for a donation, the pupils held a cake sale which proved extremely popular and £371 was raised. Between this, the Fun Run, Macmillan Coffee Morning, Poppy Appeal and the Pumpkin Raffle, the pupils, staff and families have raised nearly £2500. This is an incredible amount and we wish to thank everyone for supporting these worthwhile causes.

Mrs Lindley

Within two weeks of sending off the artwork templates, pupils’ cards arrived back at school and were quickly distributed. All of the pupils who had submitted their individual design template were given a free copy of their card to keep and the opportunity to purchase more cards, or other items if they wished.

The standard of the artwork and the quality of the Christmas cards is fantastic, both the pupils and I are delighted with the finished products, as I am sure anyone who receives one of the cards will be!

Mrs Cook

BROOMLEY GRANGE

In November we had our annual Y5 trip to Broomley Grange in Stocksfield. The pupils spent three days taking part in a range of exciting outdoor activities including zip-wire, climbing wall, Jacob’s Ladder and an obstacle course.

TOP OF THE CLASS

ThirtyY6childrentookpartinthePrimaryMathsChallengeinNovember.WedothechallengeeveryyeartogivethechildrentheexperienceofsittingacountrywideMathstest.

The school fell silent for two minutes on Friday 10 November at 11.00 as part of a very special assembly. Y8 pupils presented a poignant assembly, remembering all those who have given their lives whilst serving their country.

Footage of life in the trenches was shown and all of the Y8s recited ‘In Flanders Fields’ by John McCrae. They also shared their own poems about being involved in conflict.

Pupils also had the opportunity to purchase ceramic poppies made by the students to raise further money for the Royal British Legion.

Well done to Y8 for a thought-provoking and memorable assembly.

Mrs Lindley

The PMC is not designed to be just another test in the school year.

We are of the belief that the PMC encourages enthusiasm, boosts confidence in Mathematics and shows the different way questions can be asked. We believe in the importance of Problem Solving as a means of helping pupils develop their reasoning skills.

Answering PMC questions does not depend on Mathematical knowledge alone, but on the ability to think things through, be logical and find ways to solve problems. Pupils also need to read

The children enjoyed an afternoon of bush craft skills, building their own fires and shelters, and toasting marshmallows. They all had a fantastic time taking on new challenges and conquering fears.

Miss Bonham & Miss Curry the questions carefully! Most of the questions are multiple choice but the last few require children to input their answers. This year saw 2 Gold, 2 Silver and 1 Bronze awards being won. Well done to all who took part.

Mrs Long

SVF FOCUS 11

AUTUMN 2017

WHYTRIG MIDDLE SCHOOL OUR LATEST NEWS HEAD OF SCHOOL MR SOUTER

ENGINEERING BRING IT ON!

In October, fifteen Y8 students from WMS attended Bring It On! - The North East Exhibition for Future Engineers, at the Stadium of Light in Sunderland.

The Autumn Term is always a very busy one and this one has been no exception.

Respect in school has been a big focus following the launch of our new Behaviour Policy in September, as we encourage our young people to be the best they can be.

Our staff team has worked hard to introduce changes in curriculum areas as we prepare our younger children for the end of KS2 and older pupils for life after WMS. This includes the adoption of a mastery approach to the teaching of Mathematics in KS2 to ensure all of our pupils can be confident Mathematicians and also to raise standards. Further developments are planned throughout the academic year.

We continue to support initiatives such as Anti Bullying Week and Road Safety Week, and we have also raised funds for many charities including Bullies Out, the MacMillan Coffee Morning, The Royal British Legion and Children In Need – thank you for your support. And, while we are firmly focused on our main purpose of teaching and learning, we have still found time to enjoy the broad range of visits, sporting events, visitors into school, clubs and theme days to ensure our children get the broad and balanced curriculum offer when they attend our school.

Bring it On! is the first event of its kind in the North East. It showcased the many exciting businesses and opportunities in North East engineering, with the aim of inspiring and motivating young people to pursue a career in engineering.

Students were given the opportunity to meet real life engineers and find out about the work they do and the possible routes into a career in engineering. They also had the opportunity to take part in lots of hands on activities, such as driving an excavator, building bridges from chocolate and programming robots using chemicals to clean dirty water. The day was rounded off by a science show with Dr Bunhead, who made some huge explosions. An excellent time was had by all.

Mrs Campbell

Mr Souter

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

With the help of Student Support Officer Mrs Reed, a group of Y8 pupils organised a spine-chilling, bonejangling disco for fellow pupils at WMS. They booked a professional DJ, ordered the hotdogs, cajoled some adult helpers and got everyone dancing the night away! It was a fun evening, made even more entertaining by the incredible array of terrifying costumes. The pupils put in a huge amount of effort to make the event successful. Party planners extraordinaire! Everyone had a great time – even the teachers.

Mrs McClellan

SVF FOCUS 12

AUTUMN 2017

WHYTRIG MIDDLE SCHOOL OUR LATEST NEWS YEAR 5 FEARLESS FUN

Y5 spent two nights away from home this half-term, challenging themselves with all sorts of adventurous activities like making their own beds and reaching dizzy heights of success, both literally and figuratively!

They were away at Dukeswood House near Hexham, taking part in a variety of team building challenges such as Jacob’s Ladder, 3G swing, indoor climbing and bushcraft.

Showing great determination and resilience and everyone, without exception, had a go. There were many highlights and memorable moments: “It was SO funny hearing Mrs Mac screaming her head off on the 3G swing!” – Mary “My favourite part was the campfire. We got to name it (Bob!) and had delicious hot chocolate!” – JJ. “Jacob’s Ladder was probably one of the scariest and hardest things I’ve ever done!” - Ryan.

“I thought the nightline was the scariest thing. It was really muddy and a lot of people started off not liking it.” – Reiss.

We had a fabulous time. The children were brilliant and they have really shown us how much they are capable of. What a lot of potential to fulfil!

Mrs McClellan

YEAR 7 NISSAN VISIT On 6 November, all of Y7 visited Nissan Motor Manufacturing in Sunderland for their annual Schools’ Engineering Event.

The visit involved an hour session on engineering, with pupils taking part in engineering challenges centred on the electric car ‘The Leaf’.

This supported their current science topic on alternatives to fossil fuels.

The session was then followed by a tour of the ‘Trim and Chassis’ part of the plant, where pupils saw first-hand how a Qashqai is made from a shell into a fully working car. They were able to see dashboards and engines being fitted by robots, how cars are tested for quality and gained an insight into the kinds of careers offered by Nissan. Jackson described the visit as ‘amazing’ and WMS pupils were complimented for their intelligent questions and exemplary behaviour.

Mrs Campbell

SVF FOCUS 13

AUTUMN 2017

ASTLEY COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL OUR LATEST NEWS HEAD OF SCHOOL MR SCOTT

REMEMBERANCE DAY

SVF FOCUS 14

SPIRITED ARTS AWARD

AUTUMN 2017

DEMOCRACY WEEK

Well done to Abigail for winning the “Big, big questions” category of the 2017 Spirited Arts Competition. Here’s Abigail’s fantastic artwork and written explanation.

Does Science Leave No Room For Religion?

A Remembrance Assembly was held in school on Friday 10 November to mark Armistice Day. Readings, films, poems and time for reflection encouraged students to think about the importance of the day and to take time to remember all who have fought in conflict.

On 13 October, Miss Gannon took a group of students on a visit to County Hall as part of democracy week.

CHARITY FOCUS

When we arrived, we were directed to the main council chamber and introduced to what democracy week is about and the workshops we would be getting involved in.

In our workshop we had to create a campaign for something which we felt was important. As a group we felt that there was a big problem with road safety around New Hartley and Elsdon Avenue next to the school, and a lack of crossing for students. We created a campaign on this and presented it to the other schools that were also there.

In the afternoon we met some local councillors, we were able to ask questions about politics and at times it got very heated between them. At the end of the day we were presented with a certificate for our participation in the workshops.

By Owen

There has been a fantastic fundraising effort this term by everyone in our school community.

A busy and positive start to the year at Astley.

I have been very impressed by the start that the vast majority of students have made this term and there certainly has been a lot going on. Already this year we have had non-uniform days for Macmillan Coffee Morning, Children in Need and to support Stacie who has been raising money for The Little Princess Trust.

One of the highlights of my week has been “Hot Chocolate and Cookies with the Head” every Friday. There have been some excellent student achievements and they have been recognised with a treat at the end of the week.

We have also had the half-termly prize draws, with the top 40 students in each year group going into the draw. With 14 prizes in total, the top prize is a £30 Intu voucher.

Lots happening in the run-up to the festive season, including the Christmas meal and hamper collection for the elderly, Christmas musical performance and Christmas jumper day!

Well done all and keep up the good work.

With generous support for our Macmillan Cake Sale, over £720 was raised for Macmillan Cancer Support. Also, our non-uniform Wear Something Spotty Day raised over £420 for Children in Need.

We held a non-uniform day in November to support student Stacie’s fundraising for The Little Princess Trust charity, which provides real hair wigs free of charge to children across the UK and Ireland who have sadly lost their own hair due to cancer treatment and other illnesses. Stacie cut off her own hair, donating to the charity and in doing so, she raised over £700. Our students and staff also supported Stacie with a non-uniform day taking the total amount raised to £1137.48.

A Festive winter snow scene set the stage for a fabulous Christmas show.

Mr Scott

ASTLEY HIGH FILM CLUB Astley High is proud to run a bi-weekly Film Club as part of the Y9 Enrichment programme.

Students watch selected films over a period of weeks, some of those enjoyed include ‘Life of Pi’ and ‘Star Wars’. Prizes are available for well written film reviews.

Film Club end of year activities include a private film screening at Tyneside Cinema and advertisement making experiences.

In exciting news, our Film Club is to be spotlighted on the Into Film website, highlighting our great club and all that we offer.

Ms Da Prato & Mrs Martin

MATHS CHALLENGE

CHRISTMAS VARIETY SHOW

BRAVE THE SHAVE We are very proud of Joanne Dennis from our kitchen team, who took part in the Macmillan Cancer Support event ‘Brave the Shave’ in memory of her Dad. Joanne decided to mark her Dad’s birthday by raffling the chance to shave off her hair to raise money to help others affected by cancer.

Afterwards she said: “I keep picking up my hairbrush and remembering that I don’t need it!

Joanne who recently moved on to pastures new, raised over £500.

Every half term we have a Maths Challenge to encourage everyone to get in to Mathematics, for fun!

The challenges are not based on GCSE or A level work, they are normally problem based and could involve a bit of lateral thinking!

Working out is strongly encouraged and all answers should be submitted to Miss Tyler. Prizes are given out to correct entrants, with an overall winner. Last half term Josh and Ben were runners up, with Owen submitting an excellent winning answer. Why not have a go?

Miss Tyler

In my artwork, I have drawn the outline of a human head. Inside the brain, it is split into two sections, much like the human brain, one side for science and one for religion. The science side is bigger than the religion side so that it relates to the question. It shows that sometimes in life science overrules the beliefs of religion because people prefer to believe the logical reasons for why the world is as it is. However, this doesn’t mean that religion can just be forgotten or left out.

This work has helped me to realise that science isn’t always the answer to everything and we should respect everyone’s beliefs are different.

I’ve tried to show my feelings in this artwork by expressing that there is enough room in the brain for religious and scientific beliefs, and that both sides should be considered, however as portrayed in my artwork, sometimes this is not the case and religion is overruled.

By Abigail

ORGAN DONATION

Jess Leighton and Beth Deutsch from Newcastle University delivered an assembly about organ donation to our Sixth Form students recently.

If you are interested in registering for this worthwhile scheme visit: www.organdonation.nhs.uk Mr Drought

With song, dance and musical performances from Astley and Whytrig students including Higher and Higher, Jingle Bell Rock and Mistletoe. Y5 pupils performed a lovely version of Starry Night and we welcomed pupils from Holywell Village First School who sang Christmas classics and pop songs.

The GCSE music class joined together as a band to perform Rocking Around the Christmas Tree and I Wish It Could Be Christmas Every Day. Our talented dancers performed tap and contemporary dances.

Thank you to all of the performers and helpers for working hard to provide a fantastic evening of entertainment.

Mrs Tarpey

INTER-FAITH WEEK

In November Y9 students visited a Hindu Temple and Sikh Gurdwara in Newcastle. This was part of Inter Faith Week where students have the opportunity to explore other people's culture, beliefs and practices.

“Inter Faith Week is an excellent opportunity to celebrate the incredible diversity and richness of faith communities in Britain. It is also a chance for people of all faiths to come together and to highlight the invaluable contribution they collectively make to their neighbourhoods and to wider society.”

The Rt Hon Theresa May MP, Prime Minister

SVF FOCUS 15

AUTUMN 2017

SVF SPORTS ROUND UP

PE AND SPORT PREMIUM MORE CHILDREN BENEFITTING FROM SCHOOL SPORT

In the summer of 2017 schools received the news that the PE and Sport Premium funding was being doubled. This funding goes to all schools with primary aged pupils and must be used to make additional and sustainable improvements to the quality of PE and sport. ACHS now hosts the Seaton Valley Sports Partnership, whose purpose is to help schools invest this funding to develop and add to the PE and sport activities they already offer and to build capacity and capability so that improvements made now will benefit not only current pupils but those join the schools in future years.

Both WMS and SSMS are investing in new PE equipment including sports hall and outdoor athletics, gymnastics, football and netball. This will broaden the range of activities offered within PE, and give pupils a higher quality PE experience.

Using appropriate competition to motivate and enthuse pupils is key to the sporting offer; through the School Sport Partnership schools are able to enter more teams into more competitions; pupils are better prepared and this has resulted in greater levels of sporting success.

WMS are continuing to focus on cycling, partnering with local business Cycle Generation to improve pupils’ cycling skills and to embark on cycling adventures in the local community and beyond.

Within the Seaton Valley Federation we celebrate the success of all our pupils within sport, it is so important to ensure they are engaged now and to translate this into lifelong participation. We are using the PE and Sport Premium funding to build on the firm foundations we already have in place and to further develop physical activity throughout the schools.

Mr Day

In September SSMS student Bryce, was awarded Under 12 North East Rugby League Player of the Year at a prestigious awards ceremony at Kingston Park. Up against rugby league players from the whole of the North East, Bryce walked away with the trophy.

AUTUMN 2017

BASKETBALL The WMS Y5/6 basketball teams travelled to the home of Newcastle Eagles basketball, Sports Central, to defend their Thunder in the Valley title in November.

In the group stages our teams played 10 games, winning 8, drawing 1 and losing 1. This meant Team Robbo qualified as group winners and Team Macca qualified as best runner up. Both WMS teams were drawn against each other in the semi-final, with a 0-0 result meaning the game would be decided by sudden death free-throws. Team Robbo came out on top, scoring their first shot and Team Macca missing.

Northburn PS would be the opponents in the final, played on the full court at half time of the Eagles/Sheffield game in front of 1000 people! Roared on by over 100 followers, Josh scored Whytrig’s first attack and the team played superbly to claim victory after 8 minutes.

A great night was had by all players, parents, spectators and staff. We are looking forward to making it a hat-trick next year!!

Mr Robinson

“The thing I like best is practising skills and playing with my Team mates at Whitley Bay Barbarians,” said a thrilled Bryce. His ambition is to play for England and, if he continues with this level of dedication and skill, watch this space!”

Mrs Lindley

OUR ROLLER DERBY MATHS TEACHER

TOP UP SWIMMING AT WHYTRIG

Well done to all.

BRYCE-THE BEST IN THE NORTH EAST

Mrs Dowson

SSMS have a long tradition of school skipping; the PE and Sport Premium funding has been used to buy ropes, train and support teachers to offer curriculum and after school skipping and to enter the annual schools skipping competition.

They attended before school from 8 - 8.30am and worked very hard, making great progress and gaining more confidence throughout the week. Hopefully this will inspire them to attend swimming lessons in the future.

SVF SPORTS ROUND UP

We are delighted that our hard work has been recognised with all three Federation schools achieving the School Games Mark award for 2016-17, WMS and SSMS once again being awarded at Gold level.

Increasing participation in school clubs is another priority; a new dodgeball club has been launched at WMS and the gymnastics club at SSMS has been expanded to cater for more pupils.

WMS students Josh, Callum, Lucy and Summer attended the Top Up Swimming Programme at ACHS swimming pool in November.

SVF FOCUS 16

SPORTING SUCCESS COMES TO YEAR 8 The SSMS Y8 rugby team visited Eaglescliffe in November to play a crucial match against one of the strongest sides in the league.

Unbeaten in their league, this was a must-win match if we wanted to progress towards the National Finals, representing the North East. The end result was fantastic: 38-18 to Seaton Sluice, with tries scored by Mark, Taylor, Andrew and Bryce as well as two conversions.

Mr Carbutt said: “The boys played some great, fast rugby and to win by 38-18 against such a strong side shows just how far the lads have progressed.”

We returned to school very happy, on a chaotic bus full of winners.

By Taylor & Jacob

When I am not teaching Maths I play Roller Derby for Newcastle Roller Girls and Team England. I am a jammer for my team which means I score points and dodge out the way of opposing defensive players, whilst sprinting, on skates! This year Newcastle Roller Girls have played Edinburgh, Glasgow, Paris, Berlin and Birmingham at our home venue the Walker Dome.

In June we also took an important trip to the USA to gain experience. We took part in a tournament in Denver, Colorado with 14 teams playing over the weekend. Newcastle Rollergirls came in to the tournament ranked 14 out of the 14 teams, however this soon changed…

Over three days we racked up the following results: Newcastle 273 – 147 Omaha, Newcastle 179 – 195 Boulder County, Newcastle 210 – 106 Cape Fear, Newcastle 182 – 155 Twin-City, Newcastle 72 – 172 Oklahoma Finishing third place over all!

Playing five games over three days was very tiring but a great challenge. I was also over the moon to be awarded Most Valuable Player for the tournament. I would recommend team sports to anyone – the sense of achievement, team pride and enjoyment is incredible. Playing sport has allowed me to travel all over the world!

If you are interested in Roller Derby, you can play with the Juniors on Friday night at the Walker Dome 6 – 7pm. See me for more information.

Miss Tyler

SVF FOCUS 17

AUTUMN 2017

SVF SPORTS ROUND UP NETBALL FOR COUNTY

SVF FOCUS 18

AUTUMN 2017

SVF SPORTS ROUND UP RUGBY ACADEMY GIRLS

ACHS students Emilea, Sophie and Eleanor all play netball for Northumberland County.

They attended a full day of weekend trials where 50 players were chosen from 150 – a great achievement!

Well done to the Girls’ Rugby Academy who played Whitley Bay High in a friendly and came out on top with a 44-16 win on 13 November. It was a job done for the girls, with lots of new team members playing for the first time since lower school.

Sophie has played for county for one year, while Emilea and Eleanor started playing at this level in September. Training takes place twice a month with two and a half hour sessions at Cramlington Learning Village. They play other North of England county teams in the 12-15 age group and tournaments take place at the end of each summer and winter season.

The girls also play netball at regional level enabling them to train every week with local teams Seatonians Netball Club and Ponteland Netball Club. They enjoyed success in summer when they won in the Under 14 and Under 16 regional leagues.

Emilea, Sophie and Eleanor all played for SSMS winning the Northumberland Campbell Cup in Y8 and they now play for ACHS. They love netball as it boosts confidence, keeps you fit and it is girls only! They recommend getting in touch with a local club and playing for school.

Mrs Roberts

Wakefield College were our first opponents in the National League on 15 November, and it was a fantastic start for our Sixth Form Girls with a 34-6 win. Astley raced into a 14-0 lead early in the game. A few dropped balls left Astley under a lot of pressure, but our defence held firm and the girls scored a final try before half time giving them a 20-0 lead. The second half was tightly fought and Astley added a further 14 points and conceded one try. This is a solid start to the league which should increase the girls’ confidence and belief in themselves and the team.

Mr Carbutt

COUNTY RUGBY LEAGUE HONOURS ACHS students, Lilli and Laura have been selected to represent Yorkshire West in a regional county game against Yorkshire Central. The girls who play for Whitley Bay Barbarians had to trial for Yorkshire due to the lack of opportunities in the North East.

They will now take part in more training and a three match series against Yorkshire Central.

Mr Carbutt said: "Lilli and Laura have been really committed to rugby for the last five years and this is another fantastic achievement for our girls’ rugby program. They were up against some of the best players in the country and had to trial well to make the cut from 40 down to 25. This will certainly help them develop as rugby league players and I hope they share their experiences with the girls across our Federation. The foundations across the Federation have been laid and I am sure we will have many more girls who will go on to represent our school at regional, county and national level. Well done girls!”

ACHS FOOTBALL SO FAR Another season is underway for ACHS football, with an excellent turn out from Y9 and Y10.

We started with home games against Blyth Academy. Y9 played a very good game coming back from 2-0 down to win 4-2. Y10 played a tight game and won 3-2. A great effort from the squad, off to a winning start.

Churchill School were the next opponents for Y10 in the County Cup at home. This game could have gone either way but the boys won with two minutes to go and went through to the next round.

Our next league fixture was away to Ponteland High School. The heavens opened and playing conditions difficult. This didn’t stop Y9 who went 3-0 up within 10 minutes. They held on and won comfortably 4-1. Y10 dominated early in their game going 20 up, but then threw away their two goal lead losing 3 – 2.

The next round of the County Cup sees Y9, Y10 and Y11 all competing for a place in the next round as we go to print in December. If they get through they can go on a cup run - good luck!

Mr Day