2014-2015 Focus School - Swaffham Campus

2014-2015
Revision 2
Focus School – Swaffham Campus
Prospectus
© 2014 Medeshamstede Education Trust, Swaffham PE37 7XD
Contents
A. INTRODUCTION
School Information
Directions to the School
Welcome to Focus School Swaffham Campus
Aims & Objectives of the School
Brief History of the School
School Policies
B. GENERAL INFORMATION
Term Dates
Teachers & Staff - Junior School
Teachers & Staff - Senior School
Students
C. UNIFORM POLICY
See Appendix for FLT Policy
Uniform
Focus School Swaffham Campus P.E. Kit Policy
Labelling
Baggage
Lost Property
D. THE CURRICULUM
Special Needs & Learning Support
Parent/Teacher Appointments
Communication with Parents
Homework Diaries & Year Planners
Examinations
Inspections
Careers Guidance
The Virtual Classroom
I.T. Provision
Timetable & School Hours
Junior School Day
Senior School Day
2
4-9
4
5
6
7
8
9
10-15
10
11
12-15
16
17
17-18
18
18
18
18
19-26
19-20
21
21
21
22
23
23
24
25-26
27
27
27
E. BEHAVIOUR MANAGEMENT POLICY
28
See Appendix for FLT Behaviour Management Policy
General Rules of the School
29-32
F. FACILITIES & GENERAL
Child Protection & CRB Disclosures
Health & Safety
Transport Facilities
Insurance
Support Teams
.
© Medeshamstede Education Trust 2013
3
33-36
34
34
32,35
35
36
A. Introduction
SCHOOL INFORMATION
Name
Tel No
Fax No
Email address
Website:
Focus School Swaffham Campus
(operated by Medeshamstede
Education Trust)
Turbine Way
Ecotech Business & Innovation Park
Swaffham
Norfolk
PE37 7XD
01760 336939
01760 336990
[email protected]
www.focusschool-swaffhamcampus.co.uk
Head Teacher
Email address
Mr Matthew Garrod
[email protected]
After hours contact
Tel No
Bob Fryer or Jonathan Jackson
01760 721411 / 723366
School Secretary
Tel No
Anne Lloyd
01760 336939
Address
Trustees & School Management
Stephen Turner
Stephen Hynd
Jeremy Briston
Kevin Dunham
Will Goodenough
Gordon Fentiman
Peter Allen
Maurice Temple
Karlo Humphris
Stuart Gardner
Dick Brothers
Rob Evershed
Dan Fentiman
Gary Cox
Ken Crawshaw
Special Responsibilities
C.A. Team - HR
C.A. Team – Curriculum
C.A. Team - Communications
C.A.Team
C.A..Team – Infrastructure / H&S
Policies, Admin Support, Trust Chair
Resources
Legal & Accounting
Educational Visits
Finance
Primary Manager
Learning Support
Learning Support Team Leader
Special events / Transport
Careers Officer
Registered Charity Name
Registered Charity No
DfE Registration No
Focus Learning Trust No
Examination Centre No
Medeshamstede Education Trust
1071840
SI(D)926/6153
417
18304
Focus Learning Trust ( FLT )
03300 555600
4
DIRECTIONS TO THE SCHOOL
From Brandon & Thetford
Enter Swaffham on the A1065 and continue into the Town Centre,
then follow the directions below
From Watton
Enter Swaffham on the B1077 and turn right onto the Brandon Road,
which changes to London Street.
Continue into the Town Centre.
At the second mini roundabout, bear right (signed "A1065 Cromer")
passing the Market Place and Buttercross on your left.
At the traffic lights, continue on the A1065 (dog leg junction) Station Street, which changes to Castle Acre Road.
Continue on for about a third of a mile, past the Ambulance Station
and turn next left by the new supermarket – Brocks Road
At the T-junction, turn right and the school entrance is next on your
left.
From A47 East or West
Turn off onto the A1065 signposted to Newmarket, and take the
next turn right, where it is signposted "Superstore" by Waitrose (not
the A47 slip road).
Pass Waitrose; carry straight on at the mini roundabout and up to
the T-junction.
Turn left and the school is the 2-storey timber-clad building on your
right.
5
WELCOME TO FOCUS SCHOOL SWAFFHAM CAMPUS
Focus School Swaffham Campus is a distinctive independent school,
where students learn and develop in a protective, supportive and
controlled family environment, from ages 7 to 18 (Year 3 to Year 13).
…a distinctive
independent
school, where
students learn and
develop in a
protective,
supportive and
controlled family
environment....
The school is operated by the Medeshamstede Education Trust and
is a registered independent school, affiliated to the Focus Learning
Trust. The school is registered as having a special religious character
and it operates to a Christian ethos, appealing to parents who value
an education based on scriptural values and Christian faith.
It is important to understand that there is a tripartite
parent/school/pupil partnership.
Parents are encouraged to
maintain a detailed interest in all aspects of their child's education
and to advise the school of any concerns they may have at any time.
A working partnership should exist between the school; the parents
and the pupils; and good communication channels will greatly assist
in securing this aim. Early contact often prevents later problems.
The school recognises that the parents are responsible for choosing
their child's education. Once the decision has been made to enrol
their child at Focus School Swaffham Campus, the acceptance of the
school's authority, including the guidelines in the enrolment and
discipline policies, is obligatory until the child ceases to attend the
school. Parents are expected to support the authority of the school
in upholding school discipline, rules and policies.
The upper school (Post 16) encourages students to take more
responsibility for their own learning (self-directed learning); in view
of progressing to tertiary studies and work.
School visits are welcomed, and the contact number is 01760
336939, ask for Anne Lloyd. Parents wishing to enrol their child will
be expected to attend pre-enrolment interviews.
6
AIMS, OBJECTIVES AND ETHOS OF THE SCHOOL
To have a family-orientated atmosphere where all individuals are
equally valued.
...to have...
...to encourage...
...to provide...
...to equip...
...to promote...
...to be...
...to offer...
To encourage and enable all individuals to achieve their full
potential.
To provide a safe and positive learning environment where students
can develop morally, physically and spiritually.
To equip students for adult life.
To provide opportunities for independent learning.
To promote active community involvement and a good home/school
partnership.
.
To be an integral part of, and asset to, the local community.
To offer a broad and balanced curriculum for all students enrolled at
the school.
At this school, students are encouraged to develop their full
potential and acquire the discipline of learning how to learn; while
upholding Christian teachings and beliefs.
The truth and authority of the Holy Bible and strong family values
underpin the commitment of the School to provide quality in every
facet of education – curriculum, teachers, facilities, management
and discipline – in a safe and caring environment.
OUR GOALS FOR 2014-15
•
To establish a mentor support system in view of making a
massive, positive impact on student progress and
development.
•
To focus on early identification of each student’s needs and
support them to achieve beyond expectation at every level.
•
To develop and instil self-confidence, self-esteem and selfdiscipline into every child.
7
BRIEF HISTORY OF THE SCHOOL
...parents took the
initiative of taking
their children out of
the mainstream
secondary
schools...
During the early 1990's a number of parents took the initiative of
taking their children out of the mainstream secondary schools to
educate them 'otherwise' at home, as provided for in the 1944
Education Act. This was as a result of conflict between their
convictions and the introduction of morally defiling influences and
curriculum content into the schools.
In time, these parents began informally to work together to share
tutors and resources, and small schools or study centres were set up
in Peterborough and Norwich. After some years of operation, the
Focus Learning Trust was set up as a national education trust to
provide co-ordination of expertise and support for many schools
around the UK, all of which were established on the same basis.
Both the Norwich and the Peterborough schools, along with most of
the Focus-affiliated schools, were registered as Independent Schools
with the DFES in 2004.
...to improve the
standards of
education and
facilities and still
operate costeffectively...schools
were amalgamated...
In order to improve the standards of education and facilities and still
operate cost- effectively, the two schools were amalgamated, and
Breckland Park School opened at the start of the school year in
September 2005.
Early in 2008 the school obtained permanent planning permission on
the site and major construction work began. The project included a
complete refurbishment of the existing buildings and construction of
a new gym and senior teaching block. In September 2008, Breckland
Park School opened its doors to the Primary years 3, 4, 5 and 6, in
addition to a full time year 12 and 13 provision.
In March 2009, the school was inspected under the Education Act
2002, and was commended in respect of good and outstanding
teaching, providing a good quality of education for well motivated
pupils and good support for pupils with particular needs.
There was a further 162A Inspection in March 2012 in which the
school was deemed to have “made good progress since the last
inspection”. This report is available on the SIS website
www.schoolinspectionservice.co.uk.
In September 2012 the school changed its name to Focus School –
Swaffham Campus.
Focus School Swaffham Campus is constantly striving to improve
standards in every area of the curriculum and facilities and to realise
the full potential in every student enrolled at the school.
8
SCHOOL POLICIES
... provide primary
and secondary
education to boys
and girls aged 7 to
18...who appreciate
and respect a
Christian ethos
...on a nonselective basis
among brethren
community...
Focus School Swaffham Campus has adopted a number of policies
which have been developed by Focus Learning Trust to which the
school is affiliated. These policies are regarded as important in that
they both help the school to fulfil its legal requirements and also
reflect the ethos of the school.
Focus School Swaffham Campus exists to provide primary and
secondary education to boys and girls aged 7 to 18, whose parents
appreciate and respect a Christian ethos. Students travel from the
Peterborough, Kings Lynn, Swaffham, Norwich and Lowestoft areas.
Admissions are on a non-selective basis.
The following School Policies are annexed to the Prospectus:
• Admissions Policy
• Uniform Policy
• Behaviour Management Policy
• Attendance Policy
• Complaints Procedure**
The Ethos & Guiding Principles of the School are included in the
Enrolment Form which is issued to parents before their child is
admitted to the school.
The following policies are available to parents on request, from the
School Office:
• Able, Gifted & Talented Policy
• Anti-Bullying Policy
• Camera Policy
• Curriculum Policy
• Data Protection Policy
• Emergency Closure Policy
• Exams Policy
• Health & Safety Policy (includes First Aid provision and Fire
Safety)
• Homework Policy
• Marking Policy
• Safeguarding Children Policy (Child Protection)
• Information on educational and welfare provision for
pupils with Statements of SEN; and for pupils for whom
English is an additional language.
• Particulars of academic performance during the preceding
year including the results of public examinations.
Some of these are also displayed in short form on the main School
notice board in the Reception area.
** There were no complaints registered during the school years
2011-12, 2012-13 or 2013-14.
9
B. General Information
FOCUS SCHOOL SWAFFHAM CAMPUS TERM DATES FOR
2014/15
Autumn Term 2014
th
Thursday 4
th
September to Friday 19 December 2014
Autumn Half Term
th
st
Monday 27 October to Friday 31 October 2014
Christmas Break
Monday 22
nd
December 2014 to Friday 2
nd
January 2015
Teacher Training
rd
th
Wednesday 3 September and Friday 24 October 2014
Spring Term 2015
th
th
Tuesday 6 January to Friday 27 March 2015
Spring Half Term
th
th
Monday 16 to Friday 20 February 2015
Easter Break
th
th
Monday 30 March to Friday 10 April 2015
Teacher Training
th
Monday 5 January 2015 and Friday 30th January 2015
Summer Term 2015
th
th
Monday 13 April to Friday 17 July 2015
Summer Half Term
th
th
Monday 25 May to Friday 29 May 2015
Summer Break
th
st
Monday 20 July to Monday 31 August 2015 (TBC)
Bank Holiday
th
Monday 4 May
10
TEACHERS & STAFF - JUNIOR SCHOOL
Teacher Profile
Teacher Profile
Name
Name
Miss Donna Abbott
Mrs Susan AmbroseSimpson
Qualifications
BA (Hons) 1996
PGCSE (Primary) 1997
Role
KS2 SeniorTeacher
Qualifications
BA 1980
PGCE 1980
Role
Primary Teacher
Teacher Profile
Staff Profile
Name
Name
Miss Alexandra Flint
Mrs Jenny Hill
Qualifications
BSc
PCE with QTS
Role
H.L.Teaching Assistant
acting Primary Teacher
Staff Profile
Staff Profile
Name
Name
Mrs Rachel Forsyth
Mrs Jackie Palmer
Role
Teaching Assistant
Role
Teaching Assistant
(HLTA)
Staff Profile
Name
Mrs Judith Fuller
Role
Teaching Assistant
(HLTA)
11
TEACHERS & STAFF - SENIOR SCHOOL
Teacher Profile
Teacher Profile
Name
Name
Miss Michelle Boyton
Mrs Sarah Burke
Qualifications
BA (Hons) Humanities
Qualifications
BSc (Open)
Diploma in Mathematics
Diploma in Computing
PGCE Post Compulsory
Education 2006
Subjects
English
Citizenship
Subject
Mathematics
Teacher Profile
Teacher Profile
Name
Name
Mr Patrick Carberry
Mr Mark Clayton
Qualifications
B Ed - Design Tech 1995
HND in 3D Design 1989
Qualifications
BEng (Hons) Mech.Eng.
QTLS 2012
Subjects
CDT
Product Design
ICT
Subject
Mathematics
ASDAN
Teacher Profile
Teacher Profile
Name
Name
Mrs Margaret Dalton
Mr William Dashley
Qualifications
Diploma in PE
Art/English Bedford
Teaching Cert.Cambridge
BA(Hons) Education
Qualifications
BA (Hons) History
(Sussex) 1984
PGCE 1985
Subject
Art
Textiles
Subjects
History
ASDAN (Post-16)
ICT
Role: Deputy Head
Child Protection Officer
12
Teacher Profile
Teacher Profile
Name
Name
Mrs Sally Faulkner
Mr Matthew Garrod
Qualifications
Cert. Ed.
B. Ed. (Hons)
Qualifications
BA
PG Certificate in Teaching
& Learning 2012
Subjects
Food Technology
Culinary Skills
Subjects
History
PSHE
Role
Head Teacher
Teacher Profile
Teacher Profile
Name
Name
Mr Robert Green
Mrs Sarah Harris
Qualifications
BSc (Hons) Scarborough
PGCE University of East
Anglia
Qualifications
BA (Hons) English
Teaching Certificate 1999
Subjects
Geography
Citizenship
PSHE
Subject
English
Role
Exams Officer
Teacher Profile
Teacher Profile
Name
Name
Mrs Sue Lord
Mrs Patricia Martin
Qualifications
BA (Hons) 2008
PGCE ( U.E.A.) 2009
Qualifications
Degree in Law 1999
PGCE (2005)
Level 5 Cert Teaching
Learners with SPLD
(2005)
Subject
French
Role
SENCO
13
Teacher Profile
Teacher Profile
Name
Name
Mrs Joanna Olivier
Mr Nigel Spencer
Subject
Physical Education
Qualifications
BSc (Hons)
PGCE
Subject
Science
Teacher Profile
Staff Profile
Name
Name
Mr Jamie Thurlow
Miss Jeanette
Tomlinson
Subject
Physical Education
Subject
Music teacher (individual
lessons)
Teacher Profile
Staff Profile
Name
Name
Miss Lucy Wood
Miss Anne Lloyd
Qualifications
BSc (Hons) Mathematics
PGCE 2008
Roles
Office Manager/Secretary
DBS Co-ordinator
Health & Safety
Subject
Mathematics
14
(Primary and Secondary
School)
Staff Profile
Staff Profile
Name
Name
Mrs Samantha Leman
Mr Matthew
Chamberlain
Role
H.L.Teaching Assistant
Role
Teaching Assistant
Staff Profile
Staff Profile
Name
Name
Mrs Cheryl Devine
Mrs Penny Crawshaw
Role (part time/job share)
Admin Assistant
Receptionist
Role (part time/job share)
Admin Assistant
Receptionist
(Primary and Secondary
School)
(Primary and Secondary
School)
The list of voluntary helpers and staff is available, on request, from
the Office.
15
STUDENTS – numbers in class
PRIMARY 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15
Year 3
15
11
10
Year 4
12
16
11
Year 5
13
12
16
Year 6
12
13
12
__
__
__
TOTAL:
52
52
49
16
SECONDARY 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15
Year 7
23
12
14
Year 8
14
23
12
Year 9
14
14
24
Year 10
14
14
15
Year 11
15
14
14
Year 12
13
15
14
Year 13
10
13
14
__
__
TOTAL:
103
105
107
C. Uniform Policy
The latest Focus Learning Trust Uniform Policy is appended to this
Prospectus.
...prescribed
uniform...proper
standards of
discipline...
The wearing of the prescribed uniform contributes to proper
standards of discipline and eliminates any distinctions between
children. It is essential that parents understand and support the
need to adhere to a uniform code and also ensure that students
leave home dressed correctly.
The uniform, including P.E. kit, is common to all Focus schools across
the country. The aim is to instil a sense of 'belonging' in the students.
It is important that the uniform is strictly enforced at school.
Teachers will be expected to check that the uniform code is adhered
to throughout the school day. Focus School Swaffham Campus will
expect the parents to fully co-operate and support their uniform
policy.
Some uniform stipulations are due to Health & Safety
considerations.
Failure by pupils to adhere to the uniform policy will result in debits
to the students in the first instance. Continued or serious breach of
the uniform policy will result in increasingly severe sanctions and
parents of the offending child may be asked to make an
appointment with the Head Teacher.
Only the Head Teacher has discretionary power to grant an
exception to the uniform policy - no other teacher has this authority.
Such exceptions shall be for specific individual circumstances (e.g.
medical). In such cases, parents should inform the Head Teacher
before the child arrives at the school; this can be done by telephone
initially and should be further enhanced in writing. The Head
Teacher will make a decision as to whether the reason given
warrants a relaxation of uniform policy. If a parent disagrees with
the Head Teacher's decision, an appeal will have to be launched
through the Trustees. Parents should note that pending the outcome
of an appeal, a pupil may be isolated from other pupils within the
school and in the most extreme cases, the pupil will be asked to stay
at home until the matter is resolved.
The school uniform is an approved Focus uniform and should be
purchased through the approved channels. If there is a doubt about
any part of the uniform please contact the school.
17
HEAD COVERINGS/HAIR ACCESSORIES (Girls)
Note: The FLT Policy on these important items is varied in view of
practicality.
Inexpensive and hardwearing products have been selected, and are
on display at school. Only these items will be permitted to be worn
at school. It is policy for the girls to wear navy or black bands to and
from school, and on school outings.
Items available include black bands, scrunchies (black or tartan; or
blue/white check for Primary, black for Secondary). Black concord
clips, black elastics, black swing clips, black barrettes, black bands
with bow, black or navy bows on swing clip are available for
Secondary.
Other forms of hair decoration (flowers, feathers, etc) are not
acceptable at school.
FSSC P.E. KIT POLICY
Students will be expected to wear their P.E. kit as instructed. The
Focus School Swaffham Campus policy on this subject is
'No P.E .kit = No P.E.'. Students failing to arrive at school with the
complete and approved P.E. kit will be excluded from the lesson, and
must stand and observe the lesson as a spectator. Alternative indoor
work will not be set in the instance of lack of P.E. kit. Parents are
expected to support this policy.
LABELLING
All garments must be labelled with the pupil's name. This is to avoid
confusion of ownership and speeds up the return of misplaced
items. The school cannot be held responsible for the loss of
garments arising due to a lack of labelling.
BAGGAGE
Students are required to bring a bag to school daily. This should be
large enough to hold textbooks, the student's homework books,
homework equipment and relevant school stationery. Again, this
should be named.
Wheeled cases may be used, only in a size specified by the Head
Teacher. All school baggage must be stored in the lockers provided,
and not left in corridors.
LOST PROPERTY
Lost property can only be kept for a limited period and will be
disposed of if not claimed. It is available from the School Office.
18
D. The Curriculum
...promoting
Christian values
and... ensuring that
students develop
academically,
aesthetically and
physically...
All pupils at Focus School Swaffham Campus, up to Year 11, study
the core subjects: English, Mathematics and Science. In addition to
this, History, Geography, Bible Studies, Food Technology, Design and
Technology, Physical Education, French and Art are also taught.
Citizenship, in which personal, health and social issues are explored,
is followed by all years, as well as Music by most pupils. This is a
curriculum that wholly supports the school's ethos in promoting
Christian values and provides a balance, ensuring that students
develop academically, aesthetically and physically.
All the teachers recognise that learning becomes more relevant and
meaningful to pupils when links are made between subjects and
such links are actively encouraged and carefully mapped, where
appropriate, within individual lessons and on special cross-curricular
days.
All students continue their Post 16 studies in the sixth form. The
study of English and Maths in years 12 and 13 is a requirement for all
students and this is delivered in various courses that are appropriate
to the students’ levels of ability.
AS and A levels English, History, Geography, Mathematics, Accounts,
Law, Business Studies and French are some of the subjects available
to students. The campus makes use of modern virtual classroom
equipment to link up with other schools for some of the subjects.
This provision enables students to study subjects that would not
normally be economically viable. Self-directed learning is provided
for and encouraged.
Additional creative subjects such as Graphic Communications and
Culinary skills are available to students along with PE and personal
study skills.
POST GRADUATE EDUCATION
This is a vital part of the learning skills which students are
encouraged to pursue, in conjunction with their employment. The
concept of pursuing a life-long objective and a worthwhile
qualification is essential, along with the discipline of taking
responsibility for their own learning. A large range of post graduate
study subjects are promoted and the schools provide guidance and
advice by way of regular meetings to assist students in their choices.
“Earn whilst you learn” is recognised as an excellent way forward for
our school leavers.
19
SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS & LEARNING SUPPORT
Focus School Swaffham Campus has a well-established and
dedicated Learning Support Department. We consider that all
students share a right to a broad and balanced curriculum which
promotes personal development, preparing them for increasing
independence and responsibility.
...all students share
a right to a broad
and balanced
curriculum which
promotes personal
development...
independence and
responsibility...
To this end, initial assessments are carried out on all new students in
order to identify any learning needs beyond those catered for by
normal classroom differentiation. This would include pupils of
exceptional ability as well as those with learning difficulties. We
liaise closely with feeder schools to ensure that any existing
provision is carried forward. Any action that may be required is then
discussed confidentially with parents.
Support is provided in a variety of ways, and may include help during
timetabled lessons, small group sessions and/or one-to-one tuition.
A single Learning Support Department caters for both Junior and
Senior learning needs as shown in the following Learning Support
management structure. This helps to ensure that the transition from
Junior to Senior education for all students is as seamless as possible.
Further details on the educational and welfare provision for students
with statements are available from the Learning Support
Department.
If parents have any concerns regarding learning support or special
educational needs, they should contact Mr Garrod.
Learning Support Department
SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS (SEN)
ABLE, GIFTED, TALENTED (AGT)
Mrs Patricia Martin
JUNIOR LEARNING
SUPPORT
LIAISON WITH TRUSTEES
R Evershed / D Fentiman
JUNIOR LEARNING
SUPPORT
ADMINISTRATION
Miss Donna Abbott
JUNIOR LEARNING
SUPPORT
ASSISTANTS
Mrs Jenny Hill (teaching)
Mrs Julie Manning
Mrs Rachel Forsyth
20
FAMILY LIAISON
PARENTS
SENIOR LEARNING
SUPPORT
LIAISON WITH TRUSTEES
R Evershed / D Fentiman
SENIOR LEARNING
SUPPORT
ADMINISTRATION
Mr Matthew Garrod
SENIOR LEARNING
SUPPORT
ASSISTANTS
Mrs Samantha Leman
Mrs Judith Fuller
Mr Matthew Chamberlain
PARENT/TEACHER APPOINTMENTS
Teaching staff are normally engaged in tutoring during the course of
the working day. Parents cannot expect to arrive at school and
receive an immediate appointment with a member of the teaching
staff, Learning Support Department or the Head Teacher. If you wish
to have a meeting with a member of staff, please leave your name
and a contact number with the Office.
A member of staff will contact you as soon as possible in order to
arrange a mutually convenient appointment.
We regard regular contact between parents and teachers as key to
successful education.
COMMUNICATION WITH PARENTS
...to bring greater
parental interest
into the school and
to keep open
excellent lines of
communication...
The school communicates with parents in several ways. There will be
individual letters sent home with the students, together with general
letters about events and details of items which the school needs to
bring to parents’ attention. A regular newsletter will communicate
the essential news on a regular basis, including examples of student
work and any class/school outings.
Twice yearly, there will be an opportunity for parents to meet
subject teachers and the Head Teacher and discuss school-related
issues. The intention of the meetings is to bring greater parental
interest into the school and to keep open excellent lines of
communication. Parents are expected to attend school for these
important meetings.
The attention of parents is drawn to the complaints procedure which
should be followed if parents have issues or queries to raise with the
school.
HOMEWORK DIARIES AND YEAR PLANNERS
Homework is compulsory at Focus Schools, and is viewed as an
essential ingredient to success in education.
Homework diaries and year planners are provided to each student at
the beginning of the school year. Parents are required to read,
comment on and sign these diaries weekly to maintain good lines of
communication with the school. Key Stage/Form teachers will
periodically check and sign the student diaries. The Head Teacher
may conduct 'spot checks' on diaries from time to time as part of the
quality control process. All parents have been notified of the new
Homework Policy.
Students are encouraged to bring, and use, their own personal
planners alongside the provided homework diary. However, these
will not be accepted as a substitute for the homework diary.
21
EXAMINATIONS
Focus School Swaffham Campus offers a broad and balanced
curriculum leading to national GCSE, AS and A2 qualifications in
Years 11, 12 and 13.
The school is an approved Examination Centre for AQA, Edexcel,
OCR, WJEC, CIE, City & Guilds and ASDAN.
Within Key Stage 3 (KS3) and Key Stage 4 (KS4), the following is
offered:
Baseline assessment
September;
testing
for
all
KS3
students
in
Due to national concern with SATS, Focus School Swaffham
Campus has changed to Teacher Assessments at the end of KS3,
in the core subjects – English, Mathematics and Science;
GCSE examinations at the end of KS4 - most students study a
minimum 8 subjects towards a Higher or Foundation level GCSE
examination. Some subjects may be taken at GCSE level at the
end of Year 10, or even Year 9.
GCSE and AS examinations at the end of Year 12;
AS and A2 examinations at the end of Year 13.
The results of all examinations are available to parents on request.
STATISTICAL RESULTS ANALYSIS 2008 - 2014
Focus School Swaffham Campus - All Results 2007-2013
GCSE Results
2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
%
5+
A*-C
(including Maths
and English)
69
73
99
57
72
100
AS Results
%A-C
%A-E
2008
2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
48
41
68
63
33
36
72
89
84
100 85
tbc
A2 Results
%A-C
%A-E
2008
2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
50
71
67
47
55
100 100 100 100 100
% A* - C
% A* - G
22
100
95
100
90
87
100
77
79
100
71
82
100
79
82
99
INSPECTIONS
From time to time Focus School Swaffham Campus will be subject to
SIS inspections, or to inspections by ex-OFSTED inspectors employed
by the Focus Learning Trust. The results of these inspections will be
provided to all parents and will also be accessible on the School
Inspection Service website. An inspection of the school was carried
out by the SIS in March 2012 with excellent results. The full report
was copied to all parents and is also on the SIS website
(www.schoolinspectionservice.co.uk). It is also available to download
from the school website.
CAREERS GUIDANCE
The FSSC Careers Officer has worked with the teachers and parents
to establish the Careers Office.
...provide maximum
support for our
students, to enable
them to set goals
and make detailed
plans with a view to
achieving optimum
results for a
successful and
happy future...
Our mission is to provide maximum support for our students, to
enable them to set goals and make detailed plans with a view to
achieving optimum results for a successful and happy future.
For this to come to pass we are reliant on a pupil/parent/teacher
relationship which plays an essential role in the realisation of the
potential of each individual.
The potential is assessed and recorded by the teachers, to be
included in the suitable recommendations by the Careers Office to
all future employees.
Work experience will be included to introduce each student to the
working world and contribute to the successful transition from
education to appropriate positions in commerce.
The person responsible for Careers Guidance is Mr Ken Crawshaw.
23
THE VIRTUAL CLASSROOM
...equipment...of a
high standard,
producing high
quality images and
sound...
Focus School Swaffham Campus have now been successfully using
the Virtual Classroom equipment supplied by Focus for a number of
years. This equipment establishes a video link with any other Focusaffiliated school, which has compatible equipment, enabling classes
to be taught in different locations with one teacher. The equipment
is of a high standard, producing high quality images and sound, and
has recently been upgraded accordingly.
In addition to providing for interactive classroom situations, the
equipment also has facilities for one-to-one teaching by means of a
separate monitor.
A classroom visualiser ensures that the teachers' notes and
information can be readily transmitted to the other school.
The main advantages of the Virtual Classroom are that student
travelling is reduced whilst maintaining a consistent high standard of
teaching, and that a greater range of subjects is offered to all
students.
It is important that unauthorised contact with other VC sites is not
made under any circumstances. As well as disrupting the school day,
it is intrusive and costly. Students who do this may face disciplinary
procedures.
24
I.T. PROVISION
The provision of computers in FLT schools is a continuing
development which not only benefits the teaching and learning
process at Focus School Swaffham Campus but also helps to fulfil the
legal requirements in schools.
There are a number of operational guidelines for the use of this
equipment which students and teaching staff must adhere to. The
following notes set out these requirements.
Equipment Ownership
The equipment is wholly owned by FLT and FLT retains title to all
hardware and software, although damage, loss and maintenance are
the responsibility of the school.
Software licensing is provided by FLT.
Operational Guidelines
Each student has their own password protected folder and
teachers have access to these folders for marking and
control. Students are to keep these passwords confidential
and must only work at the computer that they have been
allocated to.
Work is not to be transferred between computers.
Student computers are to be used for school related
activity only.
Students must be supervised whilst computers are in use.
The provision for the transfer of data between school computers
and off site equipment is only via the school admin office. The
USB ports on the computers are disabled and the use of memory
sticks and non-school provided CDs and DVDs is expressly
prohibited.
Any interference with or misuse of any FLT computers is strictly
prohibited.
Teachers are to understand that:
Student assignments that are computer based must be able
to be completed in school time, and supervision must be
provided.
Students who are able to access off site equipment (e.g. business
or home computers) may do so, but should not receive extra
marks on this account.
Required computer research must be able to be undertaken
at the school, not at public libraries.
Teachers are requested to communicate electronically with
students via Moodle.
25
It will be necessary to make requests in advance for safe site
inclusion onto the FLT Network Server listing e.g. for a particular
topic.
Face to face teaching is preferred; computer use is to meet
government requirements for computer literacy.
Students are to understand (and sign a user agreement stating) that:
The computer settings are not to be altered, and no external
data is to be introduced. Flash sticks, jump drives, memory
sticks or other memory devices can not be utilized.
Students are responsible for material in their individual files,
and are not to divulge their password to others.
Computer work is to be completed at school. However, in special
instances, opportunities may be given before or after school to
complete work.
Teachers’ equipment is not to be used under any circumstances.
Departure from the user agreement could result in the facility
being withdrawn for a specified time.
Focus prohibited I.T. activities:
•
Personal memory sticks/USB flash drives are not allowed;
except by prior permission for a specific project (signed
permission form S1 required).
•
SEN laptops are not allowed to be used to store or play
games, or keep other unauthorised materials.
SEN memory sticks are not to be taken home.
Photographs are not to be manipulated during lessons.
Students are not allowed cameras at the school, nor mobile
phones, MP3 players or similar devices.
Teachers are not allowed to let students use their Focus
laptops, nor to show films or DVDs which are not Focus
approved.
No students should bring their personal laptops to school.
•
•
•
•
•
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TIMETABLE AND SCHOOL HOURS
The timetable is issued as a separate document and may be changed
from time to time through the year. Parents will be notified well in
advance of any changes that are to be made.
Punctuality is of all importance at FSSC.
JUNIOR SCHOOL DAY
The Swaffham Campus Primary School operates on a five day week
from 8.10am to 2.15 pm. Pupils arrive at the school at 8:00am.
Registration takes place at 8:10am. The rest of the day is divided into
5 sessions with first break at 10:30 to 10:50am and lunch break at
12.35pm to 1.15pm. The school day finishes at 2:15pm.
SENIOR SCHOOL DAY
Each day comprises of six lessons of 50 minutes each. School starts
at 8:05am with a 10 minute ‘form period’ and registration; and the
first lesson commences at 8:15am. The first break is from 9.55am to
10:20am and the lunch break is from 12:00noon to 12.30pm. The
students’ school day finishes at 2:15pm.
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E. Behaviour
Policy
Management
The full Behaviour Management Policy is annexed to the Prospectus.
POSITIVE INCENTIVES (REWARDS AND RECOGNITION)
...positive
reinforcement is the
best method of
behaviour
management...
The reward system is designed to recognise students’ achievements,
progress, diligence and basic attitudes to work. It also allows
teachers to convey concerns about students’ performances to
students and their parents.
It is worth remembering that positive reinforcement is the best
method of behaviour management.
Each student will belong to a house - America, Australia, England or
France. Details of the merit schemes are in the full Behaviour
Management Policy.
A new system of Motivational Awards is now in place, encouraging
students to achieve Academically, as well as in Leadership,
Management, Involvement in school activities and Fulfilling
Potential. These qualities are assessed from the earliest years, and
the rewards for students are substantial. Award presentation days
are held annually, and usually include a guest speaker.
PUBLIC ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
...success breeds
success…
At the end of each term, the House with the most merits will hold
the Merit Trophy which will be displayed in the school trophy
cabinet.
At the end of each year, the House with
the most merits will be awarded a trophy
that will be displayed for a year in the
trophy cabinet.
Success breeds success. FSSC is keen for
all those involved in the school to share
in the success of the school, as a whole.
Efforts will be made to inform parents
through regular publications connected
with the school.
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...good behaviour
and discipline is
absolutely essential
if meaningful
learning is to take
place in a school …
GENERAL RULES OF THE SCHOOL
…Punctuality is
prime…
Parents and students will realise the importance of punctuality at all
times in order to make the best use of quality teaching time. Delays
in the start of lessons are costly, inefficient and frustrating for
students, teachers and supervisors alike. Students must be ready to
begin lessons on time.
Around The School
A punctual and business-like approach to all lessons is essential.
Aimless wandering around the school corridors and/or in the
classrooms is not allowed.
In The Classroom
Students must be prepared to work – on time.
Students must ensure that they have sufficient stationery with them.
Students are not permitted to eat and/or chew during lessons. Only
bottled water is to be taken into the classroom.
...the goal of
Swaffham Campus
will always be to
modify poor
behaviour and offer
support to students
when necessary …
Students must be attentive to lessons at all times: not talking
together, unless permitted to do so, and not distracting others in the
class.
…Bullying is
outlawed…
Students will not be allowed into the classroom if their dress does
not conform to the dress codes as set out in the Uniform Policy.
Students are encouraged to follow instructions first time and follow
them carefully.
Students should not interrupt others. They should allow others to
have their say and should respect the opinions of others.
Respect for the Head Teacher, Trustees and any other visitor should
be recognised by students by standing up when one of these persons
enter the classroom.
Teachers, supervisors and classroom assistants must not be
addressed by their first names. This also applies to Post 16 teachers.
Respect should be shown for all: school property and buildings;
Teachers; Supervisors and fellow students.
Rules regarding the I.T. room, and use of its contents, must be
adhered to as detailed under I.T. Provision.
The concept of a referral room has been introduced to the school. If
teachers’ warnings are unheeded, students causing disruptive
behaviour will be sent to this room where they will carry out specific
tasks under supervision and for a specified length of time.
School and Personal Property
All personal property should be clearly marked with the student’s
name.
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The property of the Trust and of all at the school must be respected.
Misuse, defacing of and damage to property will not be tolerated. It
has all been provided at personal cost.
All damage to school property must be reported immediately to the
Office. Students responsible for damage will be requested to pay the
costs of making good the property concerned. This also applies to
other students’ property and clothing.
Students shall not interfere with alarms, heating controls,
telephones or the school bell.
Areas Out of Bounds to All Students
The Teacher and Day Admin/Supervisor Staff Rooms;
The CEO/Day Admin Office;
The School Office, unless under direction;
The Head Teacher’s office, unless under direction;
The school telephone – a pay-phone is provided for
students’ use, but only in emergencies. Use of this
telephone is restricted to break times only.
The mezzanine floor area above the Gym corridor.
Prohibited Items/Language
Cigarettes, alcohol, drugs, radios, television, mobile or portable
telephones, memory sticks, electronic games, knives, sharp
objects, fireworks, skateboards, scooters, chewing gum,
magazines, tabloid newspapers and the like are not permitted in
any form whatsoever. Only literature approved by the Trustees
may be brought onto the school premises. Personal cameras must
not be brought into school without prior written permission from
the Head Teacher.
Tape recorders, CD and MP3 players, mini disc players and video
recorders are strictly only to be used as authorised by the
Trustees within the school. They are not permitted on school
buses to and from the school.
Foul language, swearing and blasphemy are prohibited.
Regard for these standards on the part of the Students and Teachers
will be insisted on, so as to maintain an environment conducive to
learning and consistent with a scriptural Christian way of life.
Break Times
Two breaks (20 and 35 minutes – Secondary; 20 and 40 minutes Primary) are provided for respite, for students and staff. Students
are not allowed off the school grounds during breaks, and visits to
local shops are not permitted at any time, for the junior or
secondary pupils. Post-16 students may be permitted to visit the
local shops, only with prior authorisation from the Head Teacher,
and only during break times. It is essential that students recognise
this requirement to maintain a good relationship with neighbours.
Abuse of this privilege may lead to it being withdrawn.
30
Snacks and drinks should be consumed within this period – high
sugar content /fizzy drinks are not allowed.
Rough play and/or body contact sports are not permitted.
Climbing on fences and roofs is strictly prohibited.
All students are expected to finalise their use of the toilets and drink
machine before the end of break.
There are separate designated areas inside and outside for boys and
girls during break times, and these are to be respected.
Students are to move towards their classrooms immediately after
the ring of the bell at the end of each break.
Lunchtime Arrangements
During a normal school day boys and girls will eat in separate
designated parts of the school. All food and drink should be
consumed in these areas.
Attendance
...lateness or
absence must be
notified …
Students are expected to attend school every designated day for the
duration of the daily timetable. Regular attendance is essential if
progress is to be satisfactory. A daily attendance register is kept at
the school.
All students are expected to be at school by 8.00 am.
For safety reasons, it is essential that after the arrival at Focus School
Swaffham Campus no student leaves the school grounds at any
time for any reason.
Parents must notify the Head Teacher of a planned absence. This
must be done well in advance of the absence, in writing or by email,
to the school office. Requests for leave of absence (e.g. visiting
family, or overseas guests) are no longer permitted by law except in
special circumstances and this will be considered on a case by case
basis – application is to be made to the CEO in these circumstances.
Parents are required to notify the school by 8.30 am on the first
morning of an absence through illness. It is essential that parents
recognise this legal requirement to avoid the absence being
recorded as unauthorised.
Any absence will require a written explanation on the child’s return
to the school. This is in addition to the phone call that the parent will
have made previously.
Longer absences will have to be explained in more detail. This may
require a meeting with the Head Teacher.
A student who arrives late to school will need to bring with them a
note of explanation from their parents. Alternatively, a phone call
can be made, by the parents, to the school.
31
Travelling
Seat belts must always be worn when the vehicle is moving.
The Driver’s and supervisors’ instructions must be obeyed
implicitly at all times.
Students must sit in their allocated seats. Inappropriate behaviour
on school minibuses will not be tolerated, as a moment’s
distraction of the driver could have serious consequences,
endangering the lives of all passengers.
Litter should not be left behind after a journey.
Vehicles and other persons’ property must be respected.
Any wanton vandalism of school vehicles will not be tolerated
and will follow normal school disciplinary procedures.
The use of MP3 players and other similar electronic
equipment on the coaches or minibuses is not permitted, neither
is any playing of music.
The person responsible for school transport is Mr Gary Cox.
32
F. Facilities and general
Focus School Swaffham Campus has undergone a series of changes
in the nine plus years of its existence. Situated on over two acres of
land in a developing business park, the school boasts excellent
facilities for every area of the curriculum.
In 2007, a separate teaching block was added to the original modular
buildings on the site. This block included a new staff room, a new
general hall and a ‘state of the art’ food technology room. This
provision served its purpose at the time but could not satisfy the
school’s future needs to provide for greatly increased numbers of
students.
Early in 2008, the decision was taken to provide education for four
years of primary students on the same site, and this decision
immediately placed additional strain on the school facilities team. A
new building team was formed to begin a feasibility study and
prepare costings on major building works on the site. It was soon
established that a project could be completed on time and also
within budget constraints. The success of this project was entirely
dependant on dedicated community commitment.
Following extensive consultation with teaching staff, trustees, the
students and parents, a plan was produced which was favourable
with the Council Planners. Work on the new gym and teaching block
and planning for refurbishment of the existing buildings was soon
underway. The whole project was only just completed in time for
the start of new school year.
In 2012 a further move was made to provide larger facilities for Art
and Design Technology, and to convert the original CDT workshop
into a larger classroom. A new two storey modular building was
erected behind the existing buildings, which also includes a new,
larger, staff room and further offices, meeting room and storage
areas. The Learning Support department has moved to this new
block and now boasts two teaching areas and a separate office.
th
The Post-16 (6 form) area has classrooms dedicated to the teaching
via VC link, plus additional private study areas and a kitchenette.
In 2014, an addition in the form of a new reception area was carried
out, with improved information and staffing facilities.
Amongst other facilities, the school now includes:
Primary school with 4 classrooms, in the original building
Post-16/Sixth Form suite
Administrative areas
Large Gym
Dedicated Learning Support rooms
Cookery room and Dining area
Dedicated I.T. room
Primary and Senior Libraries
Science lab
33
Self-directed learning facilities
CDT and Art Rooms
Hard and soft play areas and playing field
CHILD PROTECTION AND DBS DISCLOSURES
In view of the importance of the Child Protection Policy, everyone
who is to have unsupervised contact with our students has to apply
for a Disclosure & Barring Service check (formerly CRB). No
Teachers, members of staff or voluntary helpers are allowed access
to our students without having presented their CRB/DBS Disclosure
to the Designated Person (DP) or a Trustee. This will then be
registered on the school’s central record. This policy also applies to
classroom assistants and minibus drivers, who have to apply for a
DBS check via Focus Learning Trust and the school’s DBS
Coordinator.
The Safeguarding Children Designated Person is Mr W Dashley. The
Deputy CPOs are Mr Matthew Garrod and Mrs Patricia Martin; and
the Trustee CPO is Mr Gordon Fentiman.
Maintaining regularly updated records will help us to achieve our
aim of providing a safe environment where students can develop
morally, physically and spiritually.
HEALTH & SAFETY
Focus School Swaffham Campus is committed to ensuring the health
and safety of our students, staff, helpers, visitors, contractors and
members of the public with whom we may come into contact during
the course of our activities.
It is our intention to promote high standards of health and safety
provision, which will minimise risks and avoid accidents and ill
health.
More specific information can be found in the Health & Safety
Guidance Manual in the school Office.
Specialist help in this area is now available to the Trustees via Focus
Learning Trust and Southall Associates consultants.
34
TRANSPORT FACILITIES
The school has for several years implemented a well-proven plan to
minimise traffic movements to and from the school. The students
generally travel in a fleet of minibuses, (owned by OneBus and
leased to the school) driven by volunteer drivers, or those who live
locally, in cars driven by parents. Students are discouraged from
bringing their own vehicles to school, and are not allowed to give
lifts to any other students without parental consent.
Focus School Swaffham Campus ensures that all drivers are CRB/DBS
compliant and follow the OneBus drivers’ handbook procedures, to
ensure that the same level of control and safety is maintained during
the journey as is maintained at the school.
INSURANCE
Focus School Swaffham Campus is fully covered for Public Liability
and Professional Indemnity insurance through the scheme
negotiated by Focus. The policy also includes insurance on premises
and contents.
HOWEVER, VISITING THE SCHOOL OUT OF HOURS PUTS OUR
INSURANCES AT RISK.
It is essential that every time the school is visited or used ‘out of
hours’; for whatever reason, a Trustee (keyholder) is notified and is
in attendance. Master keys will not be released for any reason if a
Trustee cannot be present.
If the school is visited out of hours, all rooms in the school are out of
bounds to visitors, unless by permission of a Trustee.
Any out of hours use of the school without these controls puts our
Insurance at risk, and the safety of the individuals involved.
35
SUPPORT TEAMS
The School Management structure is available on request and details
the teams in the main areas of Support:
Infrastructure, which includes the care of the school
facilities and planning for the future; Health & Safety, etc.
Communications which includes school marketing;
educational visits, events, transport, etc.;
Curriculum which includes teaching resources, Library and
SEN/Learning Support provision;
Finance which includes the Parents and Friends fundraising
division.
CEO & HR which includes recruitment, staff welfare and
management meetings.
A Trustee is responsible for each of these five management ‘silos’
with help from their team. Regular management meetings are held
to ensure proper communications.
36
Appendix 1
Focus Learning Trust Schools Admission Statement
The trustees of this Focus Learning School have adopted the principle of inclusion. Although there may
be some children whose needs we are unable to meet, we wish to include as many children as possible.
Parents of pupils with any type of disability and/or special educational need are encouraged to contact
the CEO well in advance of their child’s anticipated entry to the school, in order to discuss their child’s
individual needs. This is so that with parental permission an assessment can be arranged. In this way,
the needs of the child can be fully identified.
All Focus Learning schools endorse the principles of the Disability Equality Duty (Disability Discrimination
Act 1995).
On an annual basis, the School’s SENCo will attend training courses to ensure the school provides
appropriate support to all pupils.
A copy of the school’s Accessibility Plan, as well as the SEN Policy, is available on request.
37