St Clares School

School will open for students on Wednesday 8th September 2010

September 6th, 2010 |

Author: Yvonne Pallett

Prospectus 2010-11

A letter from the Head teacher

St Clares School

Rough Heanor Road

Mickleover

Derby

DE3 9AZ

Summer 2010

Dear Parents and Carers

I am pleased to write these few words of welcome on behalf of the students, staff and governors at St Clares School.

This prospectus is designed to help you find out about our school. I do hope you will find it informative and that it gives you a clearer picture of what life at St Clares will be like for your child.

St Clares is a caring, orderly community where high standards of achievement and behaviour are expected. We offer children a safe and happy environment in which they will be rewarded for their hard work, academic and social progress. As students progress through the school they are encouraged to achieve their best results and set targets for future goals.

As students approach the end of their school career we prepare them for their adult life by working with other education, training and work providers to seek the most appropriate career path for them.

As this booklet will not cover everything you might want to know, please feel free to ask questions, make comments and, above all, come and see us to talk to the staff.

We hope that students who attend St Clares will enjoy their experiences and become committed to lifelong learning. To this end, we look forward to working with you in educational partnership.

Carmel McKenna

Head Teacher

ST CLARES SCHOOL

Vision Statement

Clear thoughts – Bright Ideas –Informed Choices –

Fair Play

At St Clares we aim to promote the development of high expectations, motivation and the aspiration to become lifelong learners.

Outdoor and Adventurous Education in the Derbyshire Dales

Mission Statement

St Clares School is committed to encouraging all students to reach their full potential as individuals by helping them to develop -

Self confidence and motivation
Insight and understanding of themselves and others
Awareness and respect for other people’s views, beliefs and values
A positive attitude to learning
Knowledge and creativity
Responsible decision making

We aim to develop a calm, safe and purposeful environment where students feel valued and can develop a sense of self-worth and of belonging.

It is our aim to help everyone become caring, independent people, who are able to make a positive contribution to society as responsible citizens.

GCSE Art Work

Core Values

At St Clares we are committed to teaching our students about social values in an effort to deepen their knowledge and understanding of themselves in the world in which they live. Through doing this, we seek to develop and enrich their emotional intelligence.

Our core values include;

Freedom Integrity EqualityUnderstanding Peace Simplicity Resourcefulness Honesty Humour Respect Humility Compassion Happiness Cooperation Wisdom Patience Tolerance Courage Commitment Resilience Unity

Responsibility

Love Faith

Whole School Gardening Day Summer 2010

GOVERNORS

The Governors are seen as a key force linking St Clares with the wider community of Derby City. Their role is vital to the smooth running of the school.

The School Governors are as follows:

Chair/Parent Governor Tony Giacobbe

Vice-Chair/Community Governor Margaret Morrison

Head teacher/Governor Carmel McKenna

Parent Governor Janet Hewitt

Parent Governor Caroline Webster

Parent Governor Jane Mylemans

Parent Governor Karen Shardlow

Community Governor Monica Cooper

Authority Governor Laraine Tuplin

Authority Governor Sue Allen

Authority Governor Carol Lumber

Teacher Governor Patrick Hill

Non-teaching Staff Governor (Admin) Vacancy

Non-teaching Staff Governor (LSA) Vacancy

Associate Member

Health & Safety/Site and Premises Mike Sewell

Health & Safety/Site and Premises Stan Simpson

Child Protection and Looked After Children Megan Stratton

Finance and Business Hazel Jaques

Clerk to the Governors Yvonne Pallett

Constructing the Japanese Garden and

Gardening in the Poly Tunnel

TEACHING STAFF

Name Position / Responsibilities

Carmel McKenna Head Teacher and Leader of Tutorial Programme.

Mike Sewell Deputy Head Teacher, Behaviour and

Discipline, Assessment, Examinations,

School Journeys, Health and Safety, Transport and Joint English Leader,

Megan Stratton Deputy Head Teacher, Home/School Liaison, Child Protection and Looked After Children, Annual Review Coordinator, Continuing Professional Development and ICT Leader

Sarah Bottomley Joint PE Leader

Iain Boulton Design Technology and joint PHSE Leader

(Drugs)

Louise Rawson History and Geography

Linda Allan Joint Art Leader

Peter Farrar Maths Leader

Rob Griffiths Literacy Leader

Patrick Hill Religious Education, MFL Leader and the International Dimension

Richard Jackson Joint PE Leader

Colin Marshall Joint Science Leader and Horticulture Leader

Vacancy Senior Leader, Line Manager Key Stage 4,

14-19 and Enterprise Education

Elaine Vasey Part-time (0.7), Joint English Leader

Kate Wallis Food Technology, Joint PHSE

Leader (Relationship and Sex Education), Healthy Schools co-ordinator

Vacancy Senior Leader, Joint Science Leader,

Line Manager for classes Key Stage 3,

Year 7 Induction and Tutorial Programme

School Production 2010 – “Cinderella” by Roald Dahl

LEARNING SUPPORT STAFF

Heather Alvey

Wendy Aulsebrook

Elizabeth Bourke

Richard Davenport

Lin Doleman

Tina Downing

Deborah Evans

Jane Fletcher

Noreen Hayman

Loretta Hunt

Patricia Pulley

Debbie Stocks (Supply)

Paul Taylor

Jenny Winfield

Michaela Wood

Our Learning Support Assistants work in partnership with the Teachers in the classroom and help to deliver language support to a small number of students under the guidance of the Speech and Language Therapist

OFFICE ADMINISTRATION AND CLERICAL STAFF

Hazel Jaques Finance and Business Manager

Yvonne Pallett Head Teacher’s Personal Assistant

Clerical Assistant Tasleem Akhtar

PREMISES CLEANING AND CATERING STAFF

Contracted from Derby City Environmental Services

Stan Simpson Caretaker

Joyce Preston Cleaner

Stephen Gatt Cleaner

Shirley Thomson School Cook

Barbara Brown Kitchen Assistant

Midday Meal Supervisors

Jenny Winfield, Wendy Aulsebrook, Deborah Evans, Debbie Stocks

and Richard Davenport

Year 7 and 8 Gymnastics

GENERAL INFORMATION

Address St Clares School

Rough Heanor Road

Mickleover

Derby

DE3 9AZ

Telephone (01332) 511757

Fax (01332) 519968

Email admin@stclares.derby.sch.uk

Type of School LA Community Special

Co-Educational

Age Range 11-16 Years

Chair of Governors Tony Giacobbe

Head teacher Carmel McKenna

Finance and Business Manager Hazel Jaques

OUTSIDE AGENCIES

The school has strong ties with many outside agencies affecting the health and welfare of the students.

School Doctor – Dr Liz Adamson

The school doctor visits regularly; parents can request a medical for their child if it is thought to be necessary.

School Nurse – Sheila Bishop and Susan Edgar

The school buys in additional time from the Health service so that students can be better supported. The nurse is available for consultation by parents on any medical matters relating to their child.

Speech Therapist – Amy Rush

The school buys in the services of a speech therapist who spends two mornings a week in school, working with children with speech and language needs. She initiates and monitors programmes for those students who need it. Assessments can be requested by Parents and Carers.

Educational Psychology Service – James Bane

Our Educational Psychologist visits the school approximately twice a term to support students with additional needs.

Connexions – Matt Wright

The Connexions Personal Advisor visits regularly. The major input is focussed on students in Year 11.

Education Welfare Service

The Education Welfare Officer, Paul Johnson, visits approximately every half-term to monitor student attendance/absence.

School Dental Service

An annual screening service is operated.

Special Needs Transport

Helen Marsden can be contacted on 01332 641739

ABOUT ST CLARES SCHOOL

St Clares is a purpose built school for students aged 11-16 whose educational needs cannot adequately be met in mainstream schools.

We are situated in the south western part of the City of Derby and cater for the needs of 99 students, all of whom have a Statement of Special Educational Needs. The majority of our students have moderate learning difficulties, some have speech and language difficulties, some have associated emotional and behavioural needs and others have hearing impairment.

Although built in the 1970’s, the school has excellent facilities including attractive, well-equipped classrooms, a Design Technology Workshop, Food Technology Room, Information Technology Suite, Science Room, Art Room, Gymnasium/Sports Hall and a Leavers Suite including a Connexions Area.

The school is set in large grounds with generously proportioned play areas including a school playing field. We also have two large Multi-Use Games Areas offering facilities for playing Football, Basketball, Netball and Mini Tennis.

Since the establishment of a large Poly Tunnel in 2007 we have expanded growing areas every year. This has provided opportunities for students to develop their knowledge and skills in Horticulture.

The school provides all students with a broad, balanced and differentiated curriculum including a full entitlement to the National Curriculum.

Year 8 Creative Writing

AIMS OF THE SCHOOL

1. To enable students who have failed in mainstream educational settings, an opportunity of being a part of a small and caring community, where their learning needs are paramount and in which they will be encouraged to make progress and develop increased self-esteem, self-respect and self-confidence.

2. To prepare students for adult life in a multi-cultural society and provide equal opportunity for all, regardless of ability, race, religion, culture and gender.

3. To provide a broad, balanced differentiated and relevant curriculum to include the National Curriculum that encourages every student to acquire knowledge, skills and understanding relevant to adult life, the world of work and leisure.

4. To help each student to develop to their full potential and yet to be sensitive to the needs of others.

5. To help students to grow emotionally by developing their emotional intelligence giving them a greater insight into their own emotional needs and those of other people.

6. To teach about social values and thus help students to become

happy, caring citizens who make positive contributions to their

community.

Year 10 and 11 Rounders House Competition

THE SCHOOL DAY

9.05 am - 9.15 am REGISTRATION

9.15 am - 9.30 am ASSEMBLY(TUES/WEDS/FRI)

9.15 am - 10.10 am LESSON ONE – LITERACY

10.10 am - 10.50 am LESSON TWO

10.50 am - 11.05 am BREAK TIME

11.05 am - 11.45 am LESSON THREE

11.45 am - 12.25 pm LESSON FOUR

12.25 pm - 1.05 pm LESSON FIVE

1.05 pm - 1.55 pm LUNCHTIME

1.55 pm - 2.00 pm REGISTRATION

2.00 pm - 2.40 pm LESSON SIX

2.40 pm - 3.15 pm LESSON SEVEN

Year 8 Science Lesson on Electric Circuits

THE CURRICULUM

Students at St Clares have access to a broad, balanced, differentiated and relevant curriculum, which includes their National Curriculum entitlement. Class sizes are kept small, allowing programmes to be devised to suit the needs of each student. Personal as well as academic skills are nurtured to encourage the development of confident, well-adjusted, sensitive and independent young people.

All students at St Clares have a Local Authority Statement of Special Educational Needs. This is reviewed annually with students and parent/carers. Students work towards achieving Individual Education Plan targets on a termly basis.

As in any secondary school, the curriculum is organised so that students are taught by subject specialists in Food Technology, Design Technology, Physical Education and Information Communication Technology. Full National Curriculum entitlement forms the basis of all learning and students are also offered a variety of other opportunities according to their level of performance and individual needs. Students in Year 7, 8 and 9 are in Key Stage 3 and Students in Year 10 and 11 are in Key Stage 4.

Great emphasis is placed on preparing individuals academically, socially and emotionally so that they can become happy and independent in their life after school. As part of the curriculum Students are taught about social values as part of the tutorial programme and within assemblies.

Externally accredited examinations are available across the curriculum in most subjects. As well as Art GCSE students have the opportunity of taking Entry Level examinations in Mathematics, English, Science, PE, Religious Education, Design Technology, ICT Functional Skills, Some students are entered for GCSE Science. All students complete the ASDAN Youth Award Scheme leading to a range of qualifications dependent on student ability. We review and develop accredited courses every year to ensure that students are able to achieve their potential across all subjects. Year 11 students also undertake Work Experience placements.

All students take part in an annual “Enterprise Education Week” and have the opportunity of learning and developing the employability skills that are necessary in getting and keeping a job and in running a successful business.

At the end of their school career every student leaves St Clares with a “Record of Achievement”. This document is the start point for their “Education and Training Portfolio” and is a valuable summary of everything the students have achieved during their school experience. The Record of Achievement is awarded at the end of their final year at a very special assembly. This is a wonderful celebration of their hard work and achievements. Parents and Carers of Year 11 students are invited to attend and share this occasion with the rest of the school community.

GCSE Art Work

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION AND

COLLECTIVE WORSHIP

Religious Education is an important part of the curriculum at St Clares. It follows the approved Derbyshire Syllabus, which is non-denominational, and multi-faith in character. Parents are welcome to see the scheme of work for Religious Education on request.

We consider that the fostering of spiritual and moral values is the responsibility of every teacher and should permeate all aspects of the curriculum. Religious Education is formally timetabled, as a subject in its own right.

Full assemblies are held three times a week alongside daily acts of worship. These are broadly, though not exclusively, Christian in nature and occasionally they involve members of the community from different faiths.

Parents who wish to exercise their right to withdraw their child from religious activities are asked to arrange an appointment with the Head Teacher before doing so.

RELATIONSHIP AND SEX EDUCATION

Sex and Relationship Education is taught to all students as part of the National Curriculum with due regard given to moral considerations and an emphasis on the value and importance of family life. The programme, which has been ratified by the Governors, is not taught in isolation but within the framework of the personal, social and health education (PSHE) development programme which deals with the many aspects of “growing up”.

Parents have the right to withdraw their children from Sex Education and Relationship lessons and should discuss the matter with the Head teacher should they wish to do so. They are also welcome to discuss policy matters in this area with the Head Teacher, view teaching materials or look at the policy documents.

ARTS MARK

The school was awarded Arts Mark Silver Award in 2003. All students are entered for the GCSE Art examination.

INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS AWARD

Students gain valuable knowledge and understanding about other countries and their people through International Studies. In January 2008 we were awarded the International Award at Intermediate Level.

HEALTHY SCHOOLS

In November 2006 St Clares was recognised as being a “Health Promoting School”. This status was reconfirmed in 2010. Over the next two years we will be working towards an “Enhanced Healthy School Award” to further promote all aspects of a healthy lifestyle.

Planting , harvesting and cooking the crops on Horticulture Day

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Students are expected to take part in the Physical Education programme and either a note or medical certificate should be sent prior to any withdrawal from these activities.

Year 8 Football at Derby County

FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION CHARTER MARK

St Clares has been awarded The Football Association Charter Mark in recognition of the opportunities given to students to develop their football skills

HOMEWORK

Formal homework on a regular basis is necessary for students who wish to build on the progress made in school.

Other weekly Literacy and Numeracy homework will be set at the teacher’s discretion and at the request of parents. In particular we stress the importance of reading for all students for at least 15 – 30 minutes a day. As students move into KS4 it is essential that homework is completed, especially where examination subjects are being followed. We rely on parents/carers to check their child’s homework diary (at least three times a week) and any completed homework.

CURRICULUM COMPLAINTS

In accordance with the 1988 Education Act (Section 23), complaints about the curriculum and related matters may be made in the first instance to the Head Teacher. Full details of the complaints procedure are available from the school.

All students enjoyed confronting their fears doing outdoor and adventurous activities in the Derbyshire Dales

CHARGES FOR ACTIVITIES

The Governors support the policy that, within the resources available, education should be free and to that end will use available funds to the full.

Parents may be requested to make a nominal voluntary contribution towards certain activities, but no child will be excluded from any activity through failure to make such a contribution and it is anticipated that this will continue to be so in the future. In the case of materials for Food Technology and Design Technology, if parents wish to own the finished product then materials must be paid for.

Parents are asked to pay towards board and lodgings on residential trips. Traditionally, parents have been pleased to support our various activities and we do appreciate your help in fund-raising to run our mini-bus or for specific projects.

The school will continue to pay any fees incurred when students enter exams.

Year 11 Vocational Course – Hair and Beauty

Year 10 and 11 House Cross Country Competition

EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

We aim to ensure that students at St Clares have opportunities to develop their sporting skills and we encourage their involvement in competition with other children of similar abilities throughout the surrounding East Midlands area. We take part in cross country and football competitions every year and have sporting links with similar schools across the East Midlands. All students experience two days of Outdoor and Adventurous activities at Darley Abbey.

We have excellent outdoor facilities and good use is also made of the school’s mini-bus with numerous educational and recreational trips. Visits are made throughout the year to many interesting venues. These trips are often linked to the Class rewards systems that operate throughout the school.

LUNCH TIME CLUBS

The school has a wide variety of lunch time clubs including; Football/Cross Country, Basketball, Netball, Art, Choir, Health and Beauty, Dance, Music, Drama, Horticulture.

Students train with Derby County coaches and play a game of football against St Andrews students on Pride Park – May 2010

DERBY CITY YOUTH CLUB

Derby City Youth Service runs a Youth Club on the school site every Tuesday evening. Pupils are invited to attend each term. They enjoy a variety of activities and trips out into the community.

Year 10 Vocational Studies at Derby College – Construction

CONNEXIONS AND CAREERS EDUCATION

Careers Education and Guidance is an essential part of a child’s curriculum entitlement. It aims to foster development of the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary for individual students to make well-informed educational and vocational choices.

Aspects of Careers Education are embedded throughout the curriculum from Year 7 onwards. In Years 10 and 11, students also have timetabled Careers Education and Guidance lessons. Parents can discuss their child’s career aspirations at any time. A specialist Connexions Advisor visits on a regular basis.

As part of the Annual Review system for Year 9, 10 and 11 students these aspects are discussed in detail, with all possible options considered.

PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT

As it is beneficial for children to know that parents and carers are interested in the school and their education, we like parents and carers to visit. We believe in the importance of an effective working partnership between the child, the parent and the school. In line with government guidelines, St Clares asks all parents and carers to enter into a Home/School Agreement. We ask parents to support the work of the school and outline our intentions to provide a first class education to all students.

In return we ask parents and carers to provide ongoing support in terms of encouraging their child to attend school regularly and in supporting children with homework set. Attendance at parent/carer and teacher meetings is also a part of the Agreement. The students are the third party involved in setting up the Home/School Agreement. They are asked to try all work set, to follow the school Code of Behaviour and to attend school regularly.

Copies of the Home/School Agreement are in the front of the Pupil Home/School Diaries. Parent/Carers are asked to sign these with their child. The Home School Diary provides an important means of regular communication between home and school. Please encourage your child to show you their diary during the week. It would be helpful if you would sign the diary (at least) on a weekly basis when you have seen it. We welcome parents to visit the school at any time. Please telephone beforehand to make an appointment with the member of staff concerned. We will do our best to meet you as soon as possible.

House Cross Country Competition

Year 7, 8 and 9 House Cross Country Competition

There are many events in school during the year, including Parents Evenings in the Autumn and Summer terms. You will be invited to these events by letter. We are most grateful for your support. Sometimes a home visit may be requested by parents or suggested by a member of staff.

We will always contact parents and carers immediately if we are concerned about any aspect of their child’s welfare, progress or behaviour and we hope that parents will let us know of any problems or worries that might affect their child in school.

A Parent/Carer questionnaire is sent home every year which enables us to gather views that can then be incorporated into the School Improvement Plan.

ADMISSIONS PROCEDURE

Admissions may be made at any time during the year, but the majority take place in September.

St Clares School provides education for children with moderate learning difficulties and more complex needs and all admissions are made in accordance with the current school, LA policy and the appropriate legislation. Students enter St Clares with a Statement of Educational Needs made under the 1981 Act, and after parents/carers and children have visited the school.

Places are offered subject to availability and suitability and only if parents feel they can support the recommendations set out in this booklet and the Home/School Agreement. Mutual co-operation and respect between parents and staff of the school is key to the success of students at St Clares. A copy of our Admissions Policy is available to parents on request.

Year 11 Residential – Derbyshire Dales 2010

CHILD PROTECTION PROCEDURE

It may be helpful to know that the Local Authority requires Head Teachers to report any obvious or suspected case of child abuse to Social Services including non-accidental injury, severe physical neglect, emotional abuse and/or sexual abuse. This procedure is intended to protect children at risk and schools are encouraged to take the attitude that where there are grounds for suspicion it is better to be safe than sorry.

This does mean that Head Teachers run the risk of upsetting some parents by reporting a case that, upon investigation, proves unfounded. In such circumstances, it is hoped that parents/carers, appreciating how difficult it is for Head Teachers to carry out this delicate responsibility, would accept that the Head Teacher was acting in what was believed to be the child’s best interests.

SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS POLICY

Our role as a school is to enable students who have identified special educational needs through their Statement, to have equality of opportunity in accessing the curriculum. This we achieve by working together to meet the individual needs of students as an integral part of curriculum delivery. Our students should have access to the whole range of educational opportunities, including specialist resources, specialist teaching and consultations with other professionals.

To facilitate our role we believe that our attitude as caring, professional staff is as important as the provision available to our students. Our objectives are always to set attainable goals, through successful learning situations. This, we believe, increases motivation and heightens expectations.

Our staff group has a wide range of expertise and experience that enables both students and staff to be successful. Within the learning community a diversity of practical and theoretical ideas are utilised, enabling students to develop their learning and grow as individuals.

We also believe that parents and carers have the right to regular consultation and discussion, as expressed in the SEN Code of Practice. All staff are aware of, and pay due regard to, the needs of students. Our school staff will endeavour at all times to work closely in partnership with parents and carers to create the best provision possible for their children.

Cricket Training Day for Year 9 Students

PASTORAL CARE

Each student has a Class Tutor who is responsible for their pastoral care. Registration time in the morning and afternoon sessions allow time and the opportunity for any worries or concerns to be discussed. All students have a timetabled Personal, Social and Health Education lesson each week to help them to develop their inter-personal relationship skills. In addition to this the Head Teacher maintains an ‘open door’ policy, whereby any student who may feel the need to see her, has the right to do so at any reasonable time. The first point of contact will be the student’s Class Tutor.

PARENTAL ENTITLEMENT

All parents/carers connected to the school have a right of access to all documentation specifically relating to their child.

Parents have a right of access to the following documents:

The School Curriculum;
The National Curriculum and associated documentation;
Any published HMI and Ofsted* reports which refer expressly to the school; (*May 2007)
Any syllabuses followed – whether for public examinations or otherwise;
The arrangements for the consideration of complaints about the school curriculum;
School policies concerning Religious and Sex Education.

Enquiries about any of the above should be made to the Head Teacher in the first instance.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS

Parents/carers are asked to inform the school immediately of any change of address, telephone number or emergency contact details. This may prove to be essential in the event of your child being unwell in school.

Musical Performance in Assembly

ATTENDANCE

The maximum number of students on roll is 99. Regular attendance and punctuality are essential. Only illness, extreme domestic need or parental holidays are considered reasons for absence from school. It would be very helpful if the school could be contacted on the first day of a student’s absence. Please telephone or send a note to school on the first day of your child’s absence. This will save us time and money in following this up to ensure the student is safe. The names of students who have periods of unexplained absence will be passed to the Education Welfare Officer.

Students should not arrive at school before 8.50am, as supervision is not provided before this time. Students are not allowed to leave the school premises unless we have received a parental request (either in writing or by telephone). The school has a duty of care for all its students. However if a student absents him/herself from school this duty ceases. The school will make every effort to persuade a student to stay, but once he/she leaves the school premises parents will be informed as the student ceases to be the school’s responsibility.

A student who has been absent from school must, on return, bring a note explaining the absence. This ensures that no student can be absent without the knowledge of parents/carers. If a student is expected to be absent for more than three days, it would be helpful if parents would let us know at once rather than waiting for the student’s return to school. If parents are unable to arrange holidays outside term time, then a Holiday Request Form should be completed (maximum 10 school days in each school year). Forms are available from the school office.

The school undertakes to follow up any unexplained absence as quickly as possible and the co-operation of parents/carers is greatly appreciated.

The attendance figures for 2008-2009 were as follows:

Actual Attendance: 87.09 %

Authorised Absence: 9.84 %

Unauthorised Absence: 3.07 %

Parents are asked not to send children to school who are feeling unwell in the morning. If a child falls ill or has an accident while at school we will make arrangements for the parents to be informed and the child is taken home where possible. In case of emergency children will be taken to hospital.

Whole School Gardening Day – June 2010

TRANSPORT ARRANGEMENTS

The Local Authority may provide free transport for students who live three miles or more from the school. Other students may be granted free discretionary travel if they are successful in presenting their case to the Authority. Students are transported by either Taxi or School bus. It is the parent/carer’s responsibility to deliver children to the transport. It is not part of the escort/driver’s job to knock on the doors for children.

When the student arrives home, it is for the parent/carer to decide if the child will be met at the taxi/bus point. The escort/driver will not be able to bring the student to the door.

Transport may occasionally be delayed by traffic conditions, breakdown or the weather. Should the transport fail to arrive, it is the responsibility of the parent/carer to make sure the student is able to return home to a relative or a friend.

If a parent wishes a student to be dropped at a different address after school the Head Teacher must be informed in writing. If a student is going to the house of another student the consent of both sets of parents is required in writing. (This can only extend to a change of vehicle if it is not already full with its normal load of students and if the bus/taxi is in agreement). We would, of course, accept a telephone message in an emergency.

Queries regarding transport should be made to Helen Marsden at Special Needs Transport on (01332) 641739.

Sensible behaviour is expected on school transport from all students at all times. If students do not respect these guidelines they may be removed from the transport for a short period until they are able to behave in an acceptable manner. In the event of a student not attending school it is the carer’s responsibility to contact the transport provider. Parental complaints regarding student behaviour on school transport should be made to Mr Sewell or Mrs Stratton.

POLICY ON YEAR 11 STUDENTS USING BICYCLES

A copy of the policy regarding the use of bicycles is available from Mrs McKenna. Students in Year 11 are allowed to come to school by bicycle only if they have passed a cycling proficiency course, with the written consent of their parents/carers and with permission from the Head teacher.

Protective headgear must be worn and all bicycles must be secured with a padlock. The school will not accept responsibility for loss or damage to bicycles whilst on the school premises.

Working on the foundations for the Japanese Garden

Year 8 students with their Hanging Baskets

SCHOOL DRESS CODE

UNIFORM AND BELONGINGS

The School Governors would like every student to wear the school uniform. It is helpful in generating a sense of belonging and is a relatively inexpensive and practical outfit. Sending your child to school in uniform sets a standard in appearance of which both parents and the school can be proud. It is helpful if articles of clothing are clearly marked with the child’s name.

Girls and Boys

Dark coloured, plain skirt or trousers

White blouse, shirt or black/white school polo shirt*

Plain dark coloured jumper, cardigan or black school sweatshirt*

Black, brown or grey sensible shoes; socks/tights

*School sweatshirts and polo shirts are available from school. Prices vary according to size – please enquire direct to the school office.

PE Kit

Black or white training shoes

Plain colour ‘T’ shirt

Plain colour sweatshirt – NO LOGOS

Plain shorts or jogging trousers/leggings.

Please mark all items with your child’s name so they can be returned should they get lost

Year 10 and 11 Inter-House Basketball Tournament 2010

JEWELLERY

Students are not encouraged to wear jewellery, but may wear a watch, one pair of stud earrings and any items relating to the student’s religion, e.g. cross and chain, metal Karha etc.

Please note: in the interests of safety, rings and other items of jewellery are not to be worn in school.

PERSONAL BELONGINGS

All personal belongings should be clearly marked with the student’s name. Any money should be handed in to the Class Tutor for safekeeping. Valuable items such as radios, CDs or MP3 players must not be brought into school. Mobile telephones are not allowed onto the school premises and must be left at home unless there are exceptional situations and prior consent has to be given by the Head Teacher.

Parents should note that the school cannot accept liability for the loss or damage of personal property. Anything found should be handed in to a member of staff or the school office.

Year 9 Students on an Outdoor and Adventurous Day in the Derbyshire Dales

BEHAVIOUR AND DISCIPLINE

At St Clares we take a positive approach to discipline and expect high standards of behaviour and work at all times. In matters of behaviour we encourage students to show consideration and care for people and property. Sensible behaviour and active participation in the maintenance of high standards is our aim.

Our rules are kept to a minimum and are based on common sense. All students are involved in formulating our “Code of Behaviour” through discussion in class. At the beginning of every year each tutor group reviews the Code and any adjustments are finally made by the School Council, Head Teacher and Staff. We expect students to be eager to learn, prompt, neat in appearance, courteous and considerate, to move sensibly and with purpose in the school and to bring nothing into school that could be disruptive or harmful to themselves and/or others. Self-discipline is encouraged and good behaviour rewarded.

If there is a breach of school rules sanctions may be applied. Discipline is considered a matter for joint co-operation between school and home, thus ensuring consistency of action.

Minor discrepancies are dealt with through a system of pastoral referral where a student who is unable to settle to work is removed to another teacher. This ensures minimum disruption to the learning time of the rest of the students in the class. A break time detention is given to these students where their work or behaviour has been found to be unsatisfactory. Parents are informed if their child has been referred out of class on more than two occasions per day, as further support may be required. Repeated or more serious breaches of the School Code of Behaviour may result in an after-school detention. A letter to inform parents will be sent home. If necessary a student may be put on “report” until such time as acceptable progress and behaviour are established.

The school and grounds are a no “Smoking Area”. In no circumstances sh ould students bring cigarettes, lighters or matches to school. This behaviour may result in a day’s exclusion.

If students are seriously disruptive and refuse to respond to members of staff, parents will always be informed. In extreme cases and serious incidents, students may be temporarily or permanently excluded.

No student is admitted to St Clares without parent(s)/carer(s) agreeing to the school Behaviour Policy. Parents and Carers are required to support the School’s Home/School Agreement.

REWARDS

All the staff at St Clares are fully committed to producing a caring, supportive and happy atmosphere in which the students make positive developments in all aspects of their learning. Students need to feel secure, safe and cared for if they are to develop a relationship of trust with adults. This environment enables students to maximise all of the opportunities on offer.

Products made in Enterprise Week 2009

Students achieve more, are better motivated and generally behave better in schools and classrooms where effective reward systems are operating. We believe that rewards should be in continual use to encourage and support students. At St Clares we reward students in order to promote a sense of achievement and to contribute to the ethos of warm and friendly acceptance. Rewarding students helps to build up their self esteem and emphasises the best behaviour that is required. Rewards are used to encourage both academic and social behaviour.

One aspect of the rewards system at St Clares is a well established system of Certificate assemblies. Certificates are awarded to students at least three times a term.

Each member of staff is able to nominate two students who have shown initiative, effort, courtesy, courage or determination in their work or within the school community. At the end of each term there is a very special Achievement assembly in which students are able to choose prizes according to the number of certificates they have been awarded during the term.

Additionally all year groups have their own Tutor group reward system where stars or merits are awarded for good work, effort and attitude. The Class Tutor keeps a record of the stars and merits achieved over the term by students in their group and a group visit or treat is arranged towards the end of the term, if group targets are achieved.

GCSE Art Work

Each year, in the summer term we ask students to choose their “Student of the Year”. Students and staff vote for the students who have been nominated by each class and an overall winner has their name engraved on “Ian Morrison Student of the Year” shield. Other special awards are awarded for “Individual Progress”, “Progress in Literacy”, “Friendship” and “Sportsmanship”. Students are given a small trophy or medal to note these special achievements.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES

We develop attitudes and ways of behaving which respect all individuals regardless of their ability, colour, culture, gender or social circumstances. St Clare’s school is unequivocally opposed to any form of discrimination. We seek to form a partnership with Students, Staff, Governors and Parents/Carers to combat ignorance and prejudicial attitudes both in school and in the community as a whole.

SCHOOL COUNCIL

Our School Council is elected at the beginning of each term. Each tutor group elects its own representative. The post is seen as an important one. The Council meets once a month with the Head Teacher. Each Council member is expected to contribute to the debate and express the views of their own class. It is usual for the form Tutor and the Council representative to discuss with their class the agenda of the forthcoming meeting and the minutes of the last meeting.

The views of all students are given serious consideration and are often incorporated into the School Improvement Plan.

In January 2008 the school gained the Gold Level Award from the Local Authority in recognition of the work undertaken by the School Council.

GCSE 3D Art Work

ANTI-BULLYING POLICY

St Clares is totally opposed to bullying in any of its forms and it will not be tolerated in school. Governors, Staff and Students review the anti-bullying policy, procedures and sanctions and sign an Anti-Bullying pledge.

SCHOOL MEALS

Lunch is prepared on the premises and served in the school dining hall. Dinner money is collected on the first day of each week for the whole week. The cost of a school meal (fixed by the schools meal service) is £2 per day or £10 per week. A Salad Bar is also provided so that pupils will be able to have salad items in addition to the cooked menu on offer.

Students may bring packed lunches if they prefer. These are also eaten in the dining hall. If students wish to change from a school meal to a packed lunch, two weeks written notice from parents/carers is required (to enable the Kitchen Staff to adjust the ordering of meal ingredients). All students remain on the premises during lunch times.

COMMUNITY LINKS

St Clares has always worked hard to make a positive contribution to the local community. The school makes many educational visits and ‘residentials’ within the local area and beyond. Such experiences are seen as vital to widen students’ appreciation of different people and their environment. Students in Years 10 and 11 take part in the school’s work experience programme linking with local businesses.

Community links are seen as a two-way process. Many groups and individuals visit the school throughout the year enriching the curriculum enormously. Our senior students are encouraged to become prefects and some students do community service whilst at school, often as part of the ASDAN Youth Award. This has been extended to our younger students recently in their study of Citizenship.

Year 10 GCSE Art Trip to the Yorkshire Sculpture Park

Students and staff take part in voluntary fund raising activities for numerous charities every term. We have had links with Derby Volunteer Bureau, and provide placements for University and College students.

We run a very successful “Enterprise Week” every year in line with current government initiatives. Enterprise Week provides students with opportunities to develop an understanding of the skills and qualities needed to become a successful employee.

Year 11 Residential to the Derbyshire Dales – 2010

AN INVESTOR IN PEOPLE

St Clares continues to be an “Investor in People” school. This award was achieved in recognition of the high levels of professional standards across the staff team. We feel that this standard of excellence continues to be reflected in the achievements made by the students at St Clares.

FUND RAISING

During the course of the year pupils and staff raise money to make donations to a number of charities.

Jeans for Genes

Children in Need

Comic Relief

British Legion Poppy Collection

The Padley Centre for Homeless People

UNICEF

Cancer Research

Diabetes UK