Archbishop Holgate's School Prospectus 2011

PROSPECTUS

Archbishop Holgate’s SchoolA Church of England Academy Founded 1546

© Archbishop Holgate’s School, York. 2011.

Forgiveness

Following Jesus’ example forgiveness is at the

centre of all we do. Showing forgiveness requires us

to have courage and strength, bringing us freedom from anger

and a sense of peace. Forgiveness means we take responsibility for what

we have done wrong and we desire not to do again.

Justice

Trust

CompassionJustice means giving everyone what is right and

fair. We act out of concern for each other

in our school community and the world in which

we live. Working for justice encourages all of us to have

hope for the future.

Trust is at the heart of all we do and all the relationships that underpin our school community, helping us to live and learn together in harmony. Trust allows us to work together to enrich every member of our community and make the most of our individual gifts and talents.

As a school community we strive to show compassion in all we do, by being sensitive to the needs of others in our school community and beyond. We want to share with others the compassion that we, ourselves, receive.

Inspired by the example of Jesus’ life, these are the values weseek to nurture as a school community and live out day by day.

Our Values

Additional Information

Moving into secondary school 30

The school day 32

School life 32

Homework 33

School uniform 33

Travelling to & from school 33

School meals 33

Extra-curricular activities & trips 34

Admissions 36

Admissions Policy for Year 7 2012 37

Further information 38

Archbishop Holgate’s School governors 40

ContentsThe School

Welcome to Archbishop Holgate’s School 02

Church of England Academy 04

Caring for the individual 06

The Curriculum

Curriculum 10

Art & Design 12

Design & Technology 13

English & Media 14

Geography 15

History 16

Information & Communication Technology 17

Modern Languages 18

Work Related Learning 19

Mathematics 20

Music 22

Physical Education 23

Religious Education 24

Science 26

Sixth Form education 27

Archbishop Holgate’s SchoolA Church of England Academy Founded 1546

Welcome to Archbishop Holgate’s School

Parents and Guardians

I am delighted that you are considering Archbishop Holgate’s School for the next stage of your son or daughter’s educational journey. Choosing the right secondary school is a vital decision for each and every family. I hope that the information in this prospectus, together with our strong reputation within the local community, will give you a flavour of what we believe is distinct and special about Archbishop Holgate’s School.

We have a long tradition of serving the community of York dating back to 1546. Founded in the reign of King Henry VIII as York’s cathedral school we are now proud to be a Church of England Academy and to provide the best possible education and opportunities for each and every student. At the heart of all we do is a commitment to ‘Values, Care and Achievement’:

• Christianvalues that underpin all we do.

• Outstandingpastoralcare that sees each student as an individual.

• Maximumachievement for all students, at all levels.

We seek to offer an environment which is hard working, secure and caring, and in which students and staff take pride in their achievements. We believe in a curriculum which develops the academic potential of each student, and is at the same time broad enough to meet each individual need. We believe that we have a learning environment where our students are happy, motivated and ultimately successful.

Archbishop Holgate’s School benefits from a range of high qualityfacilities.WehaveexcellentSciencelaboratories,well-equipped multi-media rooms and an outstanding newSixthFormbuilding.WehaveexcellentfacilitiesforTechnology;suitesofroomsforEnglish,Mathematics,ModernLanguages,andforRE,HistoryandGeographyaswellasspecialistArtandMusicsuites.Sportsfacilitiesare outstanding: the school has its own heated indoor swimmingpool,extensiveplayingfieldsonsite,sportshalland gym, and five tennis courts.

ThefutureforArchbishopHolgate’sSchoolisextremelyexciting.Thisisatimeofrisingresultsandrecognitionandthe school is flourishing. We are fully subscribed from Years 7to11,havearapidlyexpandingSixthFormandourshiftto Academy status has given us the additional capacity to build on the outstanding judgements given to us by

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© Archbishop Holgate’s School, York. 2011.

Forgiveness

Following Jesus’ example forgiveness is at the

centre of all we do. Showing forgiveness requires us

to have courage and strength, bringing us freedom from anger

and a sense of peace. Forgiveness means we take responsibility for what

we have done wrong and we desire not to do again.

Justice

Trust

CompassionJustice means giving everyone what is right and

fair. We act out of concern for each other

in our school community and the world in which

we live. Working for justice encourages all of us to have

hope for the future.



Inspired by the example of Jesus’ life, these are the values weseek to nurture as a school community and live out day by day.

Our Values

bothOfstedandSIAS.Movingforwardwewillcontinuetoensure that all students succeed, making the most of their individual gifts and talents.

OurOfstedInspectionreportdescribedArchbishopHolgate’s as “an outstanding school”, a judgement accorded to only one secondary school in ten, with “excellent quality of education and care ... excellent teaching and support for learning ... high standards ... excellent range of extension courses ... outstanding opportunities for gifted and talented ... excellent spiritual, moral, social and cultural development ... leadership and management are outstanding ... this is a school where every child does matter”.

I hope this prospectus answers some of the questions you may have about Archbishop Holgate’s. If you would like to find out more, we will be pleased to make an appointment to see you. We value a close working relationship between students, parents and the school and pride ourselves on our communication with parents through weekly newsletters, anewtextserviceandanoutstandingVLE(VirtualLearningEnvironment).Wewelcomestudentsfromawidegeographical area with parents from nineteen different Primary Schools selecting Archbishop Holgate’s School last year. Parents and prospective students who would like to arrange a visit on a normal working day, to sample its atmosphereandexperiencesomethingofwhatArchbishopHolgate’s offers, will be very welcome.

Andrew DalyHeadteacher

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“Values Care Achievement

‘Thought for the Day’ each and every morning. Indeed during the 2010/11 academic year the school community collectively decided that the Christian Values of trust, forgiveness, compassion and justice were the ones that most closely represented the work we do as a school. Archbishop Holgate’s is also committed to the concept of service and to support those less fortunate than themselves, with charity work and volunteering a priority throughout mainschoolandSixthForm.ThecommitmenttotheChristian way of life is at the heart of our caring community, within which each individual matters and where our own personal conduct should model the values and integrity that underpin the entire school community.

OurlinkswiththeChurchofEnglandincludeanannualinvitationtoholdourCarolServiceinYorkMinster;a deepening relationship with our ‘home’ parish of Heslington; and developing links with other parishes and churches within the area we serve. Archbishop Holgate’sisnot,however,anexclusivelyChurchofEnglandinstitution.Theschooliscommittedtoexploringwaysinwhich these and other links with the Church of England can be deepened, and ways in which our links with other denominations and faiths can also be further developed. Membersoftheschoolcommunity–bothstudentsandstaff–cometoArchbishopHolgate’sfromawidevarietyofdenominations, beliefs and faiths, and are gladly accepted,

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Church of England AcademyChristian values underpin the school’s endeavour to be a caring community, within which each individual matters. We aim to serve the community by providing an education ofthehighestqualitywithinthecontextofChristianbeliefand practice. A belief in the value of each person as an individual is essential, and through our inclusivity we believe that children of all abilities can and do flourish at Archbishop Holgate’s.

The move from Voluntary Aided status in April 2011 to a Church of England Academy signals a deepening of the school’s commitment to an ethos in which Christian values arelivedintobeing.OurChristianfoundationwillcontinueto remain at the centre of all we do and give the school anextradimensionandadistinctivenesswhichmakesusdifferentfromacommunityschool.OurChurchstatusdoesnotprovideacontextforevangelising;butthosecommittedto the Christian path will find many ways in which their faith canfindexpressionthroughthecorporatevaluesoftheschool.

The Christian ethos of the school is supported by regular collective worship. All Assemblies have a clear Christian focus and are complemented by a fortnightly Chapel Assemblyandthroughtutortimewherestudentsexplore

Schools are rooted in their local communities, listening carefully to and reflecting the traditions and concerns of those communities. But more than that, Church schools stand for values within the Christian tradition which parents perceive to belong to our heritage as a nation and the ethical standards and moral norms which go back to the teaching of Christ.

The Archbishop of Canterbury

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intheexpectationthattheywillfeelateaseinsuchasetting.

Faith–makingtheschoolaplaceinwhichthestudyandpractice of Christianity and other faiths is central through religious education lessons, collective worship and the work of the Chaplaincy team.

Care–settingouttobeacaringcommunity,withinwhicheach student is known as a individual and cared for as an individual.

Spiritual development–usingtheextradimensionthatour Christian foundation brings, by allowing it to provide a contextwithinwhichmoralandspiritualdevelopmentcanbe nurtured, in an atmosphere of trust and understanding.

Collective worship–modellingforstudentsacommitmentto ‘Thought for the Day’ and collective worship, and supporting students in delivering form assemblies which expressChristianvalues.

Charity fundraising–promotingacommitmenttohelpingothers in need.

Service to the community–encouragingservicetoothers,both within school and through volunteering and service in the wider community.

Citizenship–supportingandfurtheringtheCitizenshipcurriculum.

SMSC–celebratingthespiritual,moral,socialandculturaldimension of the curriculum.

Chaplaincy–seeingtheworkofthechaplaincyteamasintegral to school life.

Personal conduct–aiminginourownpersonalconductto model Christian values such as trust, forgiveness, compassion and justice.

“Recognising its historic foundation, the school will preserve and develop its religious character in accordance with the principles of the Church of England and in partnership with the Church at parish and diocesan level. The school aims to serve its community by providing an education of the highest quality within the context of Christian belief and practice. It encourages an understanding of the meaning and significance of faith, and promotes Christian values through the experience it offers to all its students.”

Ethos statement – Archbishop Holgate’s School Instrument of Governance

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We place great emphasis on a disciplined and ordered environment in which students can feel secure and give of their best. In keeping with the values of our Church School, we aim to foster the development of the whole person, in a calm and positive atmosphere, in which both students and staff work together with mutual respect, courtesy and consideration for others.

A team of people work very hard to ensure that students are known and cared for throughout their time in Archbishop Holgate’s School. This team consists of Form Tutors, Heads ofYear,theDirectorofSixthFormandtheHeadofPastoralCareaswellastheLayChaplain.

We believe that Archbishop Holgate’s School is a very specialplacetobe.OurlastOFSTEDinspectionconfirmedthis view by saying that pastoral care was a strength of this outstanding school.

We believe that we are a very caring school and aim to ensure that each student is able to achieve the very best for themselves in a structured, ordered and secure environment.

A vital part of this team approach to student care and achievement is the partnership with parents.

We regularly inform parents of each child’s progress both academically and personally. We contact parents as soon as we think there might be a problem or if a child has achieved a high standard.

Caring for the individual at Archbishop Holgate’s School

Ourmission

Christian values

an ethos which lives Christian values into being

Care for the individual

effective pastoral care with students valued as

individuals

Maximum achievement

maximumachievementfor each student at all levels

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We do this through reports, the student planner, phone calls,letters,textmessagesande-mail.

We like this to work both ways and would hope that parents will contact us if they have any concerns or to let us know that something has been particularly successful.

We do take a very firm line with any student who lets him or herself down by either misbehaving or underachieving.

The school is well known for treating students fairly but firmly. We are a Church School and our policy is to treat each child as an individual while ensuring that the needs of the group are not overlooked.

Any incidences of misbehaviour and particularly bullying are dealt with speedily and firmly with an emphasis on restoring self-esteem.

Attendance and punctuality are key factors in securing achievement. We therefore work hard to monitor and track students whose attendance may prevent them from achieving their best. This includes contact with parents and discussions with staff to help families overcome any barriers to good attendance.

We are proud of our students’ achievements and work together with them and their parents to make sure that they achieve the best that they possibly can.

Curriculum

Art & Design

Design & Technology

English & Media

Geography

History

Information & Communication Technology

Modern Languages

Work Related Learning

Mathematics

Music

Physical Education

Religious Education

Science

Sixth Form education

The curriculum at Archbishop Holgate’s

School

OurValuesJustice

Justice means giving everyone what is right and fair. We act out of concern for each other in our school community and the world in which we live. Working for justice encourages all of us to have hope for the future.

CurriculumAt Archbishop Holgate’s School we strive to ensure that the curriculum has: balance, breadth, depth and continuity throughout all Key Stages.

The curriculum is designed to ensure that all students are exposedtothefollowingessentialareasofexperience:

• Aesthetic

• Creative

• Ethical

• Linguistic

• Literary

• Mathematical

• Physical

• Scientific

• Social

• Political

• Spiritual

• Technological

HeadsofDepartmentsworkwiththeirexperiencedteamstoensure that the material presented to the students:

• iscapableofstimulatingtheircuriosity

• allowsforrecognitionofthedifferencebetweentruth and falsehood

• distinguishesbetweenfactandfeeling

• activatesemotionalresponses

• generatestheabilitytosustainanargumentand to tackle problems in a creative way

• providesfordifferentlearningstrategies

• developsanawarenessofcommunalandindividual lifestyles

• developsanawarenessofnumericalprocesses

We ensureflexibilityandrelevanceforthestudents,beingmindful of their needs and interests, as well as the demands of society at large.

We encourage an awareness of the dangers of ignorance.

We ensure students take proper account of the society in which we live and then prepare students to take their places in it.

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Each Head of Department works tirelessly to meet our curriculum aims; to foster a love of learning and a spirit of successandhighexpectation.

Curriculum KS3/KS4

Main school students undertake the following subjects with weekly time allocations in hours indicated in brackets:

Key Stage 3

Year 7

RE(2),EnglishandLiteracy(4),Maths(3),Science(3),Food/Textiles(1),ProductDesign(1),ICT(1),History(2),Geography(2),

ModernForeignLanguage(2),Art(1),Music(1),PE(2)

Year 8 and 9

AsforYear7,exceptthatEnglishreducesto3periodsandModernForeignLanguageincreasesfrom2to3.

Key Stage 4

All students take the following subjects:

Maths(3),English(3),Science(5),PE(2),RE(1),Guidance&Enterprise(1),ICT(1)

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AllstudentswiththeexceptionofthoseonDiplomacourses,Study Plus or Work based learning undertake:

ModernForeignLanguage(2)(French,GermanorSpanish)andaHumanity(HistoryorGeography)plustwoOptionSubjects from the list shown below, which may include doublesfromtheMFLorhumanitysubjects.

• ArtandDesign

• Graphics

• Textiles

• ProductDesign

• Media

• PE

• Music

• BusinessStudies

• ICT(Extended)

• Dance

Some students incorporate Critical Thinking Short CourseGCSEintotheGuidancetime.Allstudentsgainthe preparation for working life qualification during Guidancetime.SomestudentsareselectedtocompleteaqualificationinNutritionandHealthduringGuidancetime.

Art & DesignIn Art and Design we aim to foster creativity, an understanding of visual language and independent learning skills. We seek to develop students’ visual and tactile skills through working with different materials, and to relatetheseexperiencestoabroadspectrumofEuropeanand world artists and designers.

DuringKeyStage3,studentsdeveloptheirskillsthroughdrawing and painting, printmaking, clay and three dimensionalworkinarangeofmedia.Theyexploreanddevelop an understanding of different cultures, study a range of traditional and contemporary art movements, and undertake projects in applied learning. Throughout KeyStage3weseekthroughArtandDesigntoencouragestudents’ individual interests, a sense of achievement and pride through the artistic process, and above all an enjoyment of the subject.

StudentsinYears10and11mayoptforGCSEArtandDesign,theOCRLevel2NationalAward,ortheNationalCertificate in Art and Design. Year 11 students are increasingly encouraged to develop their own individual ideas and approaches from starting points set by the teacherortheexaminationboard.Studentswhowishto pursue a career in Art and Design continue with theirstudiesintheSixthFormthroughourOCRLevel3National Certificate in Art and Design, and are given every encouragement and support.

Homework is set weekly. After school art sessions provide opportunities for students to complete homework using specialistmaterialsandfacilitiestoextendtheirwork,helpedandguidedbyArtandDesignstaff.GCSEandSixthForm students are offered further opportunities to work towardstheirexhibitionsthroughafterschoolsessions,outof hours learning and Easter holiday sessions.

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Design & TechnologyWe aim through Design and Technology to offer a unique learningexperience,tostimulatecuriosityabouteverydayproducts and develop skills and knowledge essential for anincreasinglytechnologicallyadvancingworld.OurintegratedKeyStage3DesignandTechnologyprogrammedrawstogetherFoodTechnology,TextilesTechnologyandProductDesign.Ourfacilitiesarefirstclass,includingspecialist workshops, kitchens and studios, and access to virtual rapid prototyping, laser cutters and industry-standard computer aided design, graphic design and electronic programming software.

Students in Years 7, 8 and 9 study all aspects of the design process, including how professional designers and manufacturers work together to develop and market new products. The course includes aspects of architecture, electronic product design, engineering, fashion design, food production, graphic design, nutrition, and computer aided design and manufacture. It aims to develop skills of creativity, teamwork, independent problem solving and communication as well as practical skills. The curriculum includes industrial practice and links with local industries.

Wehaveoutstandingextra-curricularopportunitieswithin Design and Technology ranging from designers in residence and business links to enterprise activities and local, regional and national competitions.

SeveralGCSEcoursesareofferedwithinDesignandTechnology.TextilesTechnologyandGraphicDesignarevaried, interesting courses giving students the opportunity to apply designing and making skills to produce quality products,exploringmodernmaterialsandwell-knowndesigners then applying these to students’ own creative work using industry standard equipment. Food Technology exploresavarietyofmodernandculturaldishesandgivesan opportunity for students to design their own products for a particular age or need. Engineering combines academic and applied learning styles and includes all sectors of engineering ranging from civil engineering to electronic engineering.ForSixthFormstudyweofferawiderangeof technological and industrial design options, offered in aSixthFormbuildingwithoutstandingspecialistfacilities,and featuring business links which are second to none across the city.

English & MediaBecause success in English promotes success in all subjects, we offer students a wide range of opportunities to develop their reading, writing, speaking and listening skills. We want our students to develop their understanding of the world around them by becoming fluent, accurate communicators.Languageskillsofallkindsaredevelopedto promote fluency, accuracy and the enjoyment of reading. Studentsencounterawidevarietyoftextsfromnon-fictionmediatextstowell-knownclassicwritingfundamentalto our culture, encompassing poetry, prose and drama. Students read regularly in class and are encouraged to read widely for pleasure.

Speaking and listening skills are developed through class and group discussion, drama and formal presentations. Buildingontheirgrowingconfidence,weexpectstudentsas they grow older to be ready to perform and to listen with real attention to their peers. Drama forms an important partofKeyStage3English,helpingstudentsunderstandthetextstheystudy,aswellasdevelopingconfidenceinspeakingskills.MediaformsanotherkeyelementofEnglish;thosewithagenuineinterestinMediacanopttoextendtheirknowledgeandskillsthroughGCSEMediaStudies–combiningtheoreticalunderstandingofaudience,representation, institution and language with practical applications–andonintoourSixthFormcurriculum.

We teach writing in a variety of styles for a variety of purposes.Ouremphasisthroughoutisondevelopingaccuracy and a clear sense of audience. Spelling, grammar and punctuation skills are taught systematically, highlighted regularly, and reinforced through testing. Literacyandcatch-upclassesanddifferentiatedteachinggivefurthersupportasappropriate.OuroutstandingKeyStage3workprovidesstrongfoundationsforGCSEEnglish,GCSEEnglishLiteratureandSixthFormstudy.Resultshaveconsistently shown very high added value reflecting some of the best progress in the country.

We aim to foster the enjoyment of English through a broad rangeofmaterials,themesandideas.Ourliteracy-basedapproach includes language work; novels, short stories, drama and poetry from different periods; and opportunities to develop sensitive understanding and clear thinking. Regularhomeworkdevelopsandextendsworkdoneinclass, as staff seek to help students to full awareness of the pleasures of accurate and thoughtful communication.

Outofschoolhoursstudentshaveopportunitiestodeveloptheir skills in a school drama club, through theatre visits, lectures, and a creative course which is offered to gifted and talented writers.

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GeographyGeographyseekstoexamineboththephysicalforcesthatcreate the world around us, and the human impact upon it.StudyingGeographywillenableyoutodevelopawiderange of useful skills relevant to many industry sectors. The subjectcoversaninterestingmixoftopicsandwillhelpyou to further understand the world today. The syllabus is designedtoexplorepresentdayissuesandprovideyouwith an opportunity to develop your own opinions. We aim tobringGeographyalivethroughstudentsapplyingtheirlearning to real life situations; simulations such as the FairTradechocolategameexploringissuesbetweenthedeveloping and developed countries; global sustainability; breakingnewsstoriesshowingtheimpactofGeography.

Educational visits are an important part of the programme ofstudy,withstudentsvisitingplacessuchasMalham,FlamboroughHeadandGoathland,whileconductingfieldstudies to enhance classroom teaching by setting work withinthecontextoftherealworld.

GeographyinYears7to9rangesfromhumantopicssuchas population and globalisation to physical topics including how the earth is shaped by rivers and tectonic movement. Environmental issues such as sustainability and climate change are also central to the course.

GCSEGeographycombinesacourseworkenquirywithfieldworkandmodularexaminations.Theenquiryelementincludes sorting and presenting data, decision-making, as well as displaying an understanding of the environment, economic understanding and sustainability.

A-Levelareasofstudycanincludethefollowing:

• Population-changingpopulationanditseffectonsociety, managing population growth, migration and urban population change.

• Glaciation-thelandformsandprocessesassociatedwithcoldlands(ice,meltwaterandpermafrost).Exploitationanddevelopmentofcoldlandareas,including the future of Antarctica.

• Energy-managingenergy,includingsources,environmental impact and sustainable use of energy.

• Rivers-riverfeaturesandprocesses,hydrologyandthecausesandmanagementofflooding.Riversalsoformthe compulsory fieldwork element of the course.

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HistoryStudents in York are surrounded by history and, at Archbishop Holgate’s School, study the subject in one of the country’s most historic schools. We want students to engage with the ‘story’ of history and see how it relates to their own lives. We deal with everyday ideas such as continuity, change, chronology, cause and consequence - as well as source analysis, historical enquiry, and concepts likedemocracy,revolutionandcitizenship.Mostimportantly,we want all students to enjoy History and succeed at it.

We look both at knowledge about the past, and at the skills and methods which make sense of it. Students in Years 7-9 see how developments from the Norman Conquest to the twenty-first century have helped to shape the society, culture, economy and political structure of modern Britain, and also study the non-European world, including American and African history. Students of all ages are introduced to a wide range of stimulus materials and sources of historical evidence-includingarchivematerials,artefacts,exhibits,film and fieldwork. We have good links with the Castle Museum,EdenCampandYorkArchaeologicalTrust.Regularhomeworksandresearchprojectsbuildonworkdone in class.

HistoryisanextremelypopularoptionatGCSEandstudentsfollowtheOCRModernWorldHistorycourse.This comprises of three key elements; the Cold War and its impact from 1945; an in-depth study of America during the 1920’sand1930’s;andasourcestudyofBritainbetween1890 and 1918. In addition, students also complete a controlledassessmentontheCivilRightsmovementintheUSA,withemphasisonMartinLuther-King.ThereisalsoanopportunitytovisitPolandforamovingvisittoAuschwitz.

StudentschooseA-LevelHistorybecauseitinvolvesafascinatingjourneyintoexploringpastsocieties,individuals,ideas and values. History is regarded by employers as anexcellentsubjectfordevelopinganalyticalabilityandthe capacity for debate. The subject is highly regarded by admissions tutors for universities, as it equips you with so many transferable skills.

OurValuesCompassion


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OurexcellentInformationandCommunicationTechnologyfacilities are acknowledged as among the very best in the area. We have four fully-equipped multi-media computer rooms, including digital cameras, web cams and scanners; broadband internet access; and a wide range of subject software. There are also computer stations and data projectors in each classroom throughout the school;interactivewhiteboards;andaLibraryResourcearea with networked computer terminals, each replacing hugesetsofreferencebooks.Ourfacilitiesareunderconstant development; our new Daniel, Johnson, Vinter and WoodwardICTRoomsallfeaturethelatestnetworkedmulti-mediacomputingtechnology.AnewVLEallowsstudentstopersonalise their learning by accessing resources, learning materials and their school network area from home, while also giving access to attainment and attendance data, blogs and forums.

Year 7 students are introduced to word processing, desk-top publishing, spreadsheets, control and presentations. In Years 8 and 9 they further develop their information and communication technology skills in these and other areas including web design and databases, and apply themincontext.TheyarethenreadytoentertheLevel2National,aGCSE-levelqualification.Aswellasbeinganimportant subject taught in its own right, Information and Communication Technology is fundamental to all subjects, and is therefore also taught across the curriculum as part ofEnglish,Mathematics,Science,TechnologyandtheHumanities.

All students continue cross-curricular ICT work at Key Stage 4. In addition, students may also opt for additional GCSE-levelqualificationsintwosubjects,bothofwhichhave a very strong record of success: either ICT, or Business Studies,whichincludesappliedICT.OurSixthFormstudents have the opportunity to deepen their knowledge and skills in Business and ICT in a fully ICT-enabled LearningCentrewithstate-of-the-artfacilitiesandexcellentbusiness links.

Information & Communication Technology

Modern LanguagesAllstudentsstudyGermaninYear7.FrenchisintroducedlaterinKeyStage3.Eachcourseaimstodevelopstudents’ability and confidence in the four skills of speaking, listening,readingandwriting.LessonsincludeextensiveuseofCD-ROMrecordings,internet,DVD,interactivewhiteboard, computers, pair-work and group-work. As much as possible of each lesson is conducted in the target languageofGermanorFrench.Homeworkcanincludereadingandwritingexercises,learningtorecogniseorspell vocabulary for a test, or perhaps making a recording or PowerPoint presentation.

In Years 7 to 9 students build on language skills developed in primary schools and apply them in situations that might be encountered in a foreign country, such as asking the way, shopping, travelling, or staying with a French or Germanfamily.Atthesametimetheylearntosayandwritemore about themselves and their families, school, hobbies, food and drink, and other everyday situations, leading to students gaining confidence in using tenses, offering opinions and speaking and writing with increasing detail and accuracy.

As some students will be able to progress more quickly than others, as far as possible students are grouped by ability. All groups cover the same topics at appropriate levels of attainment, and the four skill areas are formally assessed on a regular basis according to National Curriculum criteria. In Years 10 and 11 all students have the opportunity to continue the study of at least one foreign language to examinationlevel.

ALanguagesClubgivesstudentsopportunitytostayin touch with languages studied at primary school. All students are offered opportunities to join trips abroad to GermanyandFrance,tolearnmoreaboutthecultureand practise their developing language skills in a real-life context.

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Work Related LearningTheWorkRelatedLearningprogrammeaimstoempowerlearnerswiththeskillsemployersarelookingfor–workingwith others, communication skills, problem solving skills, self awareness, resilience and creativity. It also hopes to open learner’s eyes to the opportunities available to them and to provide them with the support and means to achieve theirgoals.WorkRelatedLearningalsoaimstoimproveconfidence, self esteem and social skills applicable to all elements of adult life.

The programme is offered through option choices to selectedstudents.StudentsareselectedbytheLearningSupport Department and Head of Year. Parents and students are then invited in to discuss the course in full detail. Students and parents can then make the decision to remaininthemainstreamselectionofGCSEsiftheyfeeltheprogramme is not appropriate for them. Students will not be selectedforWorkRelatedLearningiftheyhaveattendanceissues or serious behaviour difficulties. Students will also studyEnglish,MathsandScienceatGCSEorEntryLevel.

WorkRelatedLearninginvolvesalternativestudyanda more practical, work-based approach to learning. StudentswillstudytheASDANBronzeAward,ASDANCoPE(CertificateofPersonalEffectiveness)andWiderKeySkillsatLevel1.Studentsmustcompleteanextendedworkplacement which is attended on a weekly basis from the summer term of Year 10 through Year 11. Students will also take part in a variety of trips and visits, including liaising with other outside agencies. The course aims to increase the employability of learners and/or encourage them into occupations, apprenticeships or continued education leading to vocational qualifications.

ManystudentscontinuetheirWorkRelatedLearningintoSixthFormwheretheyarejoinedbystudentsfromotherschoolsacrossYorkonournationallyrecognisedSixthForm programme of study.

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MathematicsWe believe that all students should be given a balanced andvariedexperienceofMathematics,toenablethemto choose and make use of its skills, knowledge and understanding, both in other subjects and in everyday life.

Ourwiderangingschemeofworkhasbeenhighlycommended by Inspectors. It builds directly on the numeracy work done by students in primary schools; it can beusedflexiblytoensurethateachstudentstartsatanappropriatelevel;itincorporatesmanyskills(computerandcalculator techniques, problem solving, estimation, spatial awarenessandothers)thatwillberequiredinmanyothersubjects;anditcontainsagreatdealofmaterialtoextendand enthuse our most able students without prejudicing the progress and development of others in the group.

In Year 7, students study a variety of modules, covering such topics as basic numeracy, data handling, probability, number patterns, algebra and graphs. Students will be assessed on the work covered at the end of each term. Homework, which normally takes between half and three quarters of an hour, is set each week.

Work in Years 8 and 9 builds on these foundations. Some investigative work is undertaken, as is some kinaesthetic work, all of which contributes to the overall assessment of students’learningandprogress.Ourrecentresultshavebeenexcellent,afteragreatdealofenthusiastichardworkby students and staff alike. In Years 10 and 11, students studythehigherNationalCurriculumlevelstoGCSEMathematics(and,whereappropriate,GCSEStatistics),buildingontheirprogressduringKeyStage3andpavingthewayforspecialiststudyintheSixthForm.Thisincludesapopularandsuccessful‘A’LevelMathematicscourseandFurtherMaths,whichcanbestudiedtosupportScienceorTechnology subjects or can be chosen in its own right.

“Excellentqualityofeducationandcare...excellentteaching and support for learning ... high standards ...excellentrangeofextensioncourses...outstandingopportunitiesforgiftedandtalented...excellentspiritual,moral, social and cultural development ... leadership and management are outstanding ... this is a school where every child does matter.OFSTED

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MusicWe are fortunate at Archbishop Holgate’s in having committedstaffandexcellentfacilitiesfortheteachingofthisNationalCurriculumsubject.Ourrecentlyrefurbishedmusic block, with its spacious classrooms and practice areas, is one of the best in the area.

StudentsexperienceMusicthroughawiderangeofpractical activities, including performing, improvising and composing different musical styles, listening to and responding to music, and using music technology to assist in composition and record their work. Students are encouraged to stretch the imagination, heighten aural perception,andexperiment.StudentsinYears10and11mayoptforGCSEMusicand,inrecentyears,severalhavegone on to pursue their study of the subject at Advanced Diplomalevelor‘A’Level.

We believe strongly that commitment, interest and enthusiasmareasimportantasmusicalexperience.Activities include choir, orchestra, bands, ensembles, clubs and workshops leading to concerts and Cabaret Evenings. Tuition is offered on woodwind, brass, percussion, strings, guitar, bass, keyboard and voice, with opportunity totakegradedexaminationsforrock,classicalandjazzmusicians.Otherhighlightsoftheyearincludeourmusicalproductions, music for our Awards ceremony, and our annualCarolServiceinYorkMinster.

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Physical EducationOuroutstandingsportsfacilitiesincludea25metreheatedindoor swimming pool, fully equipped gymnasium and sportshall,tenniscourtsandexcellenton-siteplayingfields.

Throughout their teaching of team games and individual activities, PE staff seek to promote learning, enjoyment, progress and respect for others, together with the development of skills, and establishing a positive attitude towards participation. We seek to provide a programme of activities that can create success and enjoyment at all levels. As students develop skills and progress through the school, they are given greater choice. A comprehensive rangeofextra-curriculareventsandmatchessupportouraims. The very high quality of provision and the wide range of partnerships have led to the award of Sportsmark status and significant success in a wide range of sports at district, regional and national level.

OfcoursemanystudentswhochoosePEatGCSEcontinuetostudythissubjectatSixthForm,eitherthroughBTECor ‘A’Levelcourses.

Activities include:

Swimming Gymnastics

Soccer Tennis

Netball Exercise Activities

Trampolining Rugby

Hockey Cricket

Athletics Cross Country

Volleyball Badminton

Basketball Orienteering

Health Related Fitness Softball

Golf Dance

Rounders Water Polo

Aerobics Life-Saving

World Sports

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Religious EducationReligiousEducationasksquestionsofultimateimportance–Where do we come from? Who am I? Where are we going? Whyarewehere?AmIhereforapurpose?IsthereaGod?If so, how does that affect us? Is there an afterlife? These aresomeofour“starterquestions”inReligiousEducationforexploringsomeofthefundamentalissuesofhumanexistence.

TheReligiousEducationcourseaimstohelpdevelopmoral values, social skills, and an appreciation of the spiritual dimension within the human condition. Students areencouragedtoexploretheirownbeliefs,andthoseofothers, to help them make reasoned, informed judgements about religious, moral and spiritual questions in a pluralistic society.FollowingtheYorkDiocesansyllabus,ourReligiousEducation studies Christianity and the teaching and principlesofothermajorreligioustraditions,toencourage–fromYear7throughto‘A’LevelinYears12and13–abroadunderstanding, respect for and appreciation of the beliefs of others.

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CitizenshipformspartofREandGuidanceandisanimportant part of the school curriculum, of students’ personal development, and of our Church School ethos. Itaimstodevelopthewholeperson–body,mindandspirit–focusingonvaluesandattitudeswithinschoolandcommunity, and on developing students’ self-awareness, self-esteem, health, study skills, careers guidance, problem-solving, teamwork, social responsibility and care for others. It also aims to foster a positive approach to learning; develop students’ personal, social and communication skills, independence and confidence; and promote an environment within which individuals growing towards adulthoodacceptresponsibility–forthemselvesandeach other, in the affairs of the school, and in the wider community.

Collective worship follows the teaching of the Church of England, but a broad approach is taken, in keeping with the inclusive character of the Anglican tradition. MembersoftheChaplaincyteamtakepartonaregularbasis; so too, from time to time, do representatives of otherdenominations.OurAssembliesprovideatimeforpersonal stillness and reflection and the opportunity to reflect upon shared values and the spiritual dimension of humanexistence,aswellasthecelebrationofactivitiesand achievement. Parents considering withdrawing their childrenfromREorcollectiveworshipareinvitedtodiscussthe matter first with the Headteacher.

ScienceAt Archbishop Holgate’s School we see Science as relevantandexciting.Weaimtogiveallstudentsthebestpossible preparation for a rapidly changing technological society, through a scientific awareness relevant both to the workplace and to daily life.

In Years 7 to 9 all students follow an integrated Science course emphasising the links between science and society. Practical study units introduce students to key scientific ideasthatformthebasisoftheirstudiesthroughtoGCSE.Biology, Chemistry, Physics and investigative skills are developedthroughthesixkeyideasofenergy,organisms,how chemicals and materials behave, electricity and forces, the environment, and behaviour and health. All units include the latest National Curriculum changes. Students receive regularhomework–research,writingup,conductingashort survey, collecting information, learning, or revising foranend–of–unittest.Thereareregularassessmentstomonitor students’ progress and practical skills.

In Years 10 and 11, all students spend 20% of their school week following a broad and balanced Science course. This takes a practical and investigative approach and normally leadstoadoubleGCSEqualification–CoreScience,normally taken in Year 10, plus Additional Science. Some students may follow the very successful Applied Science coursewhichexploreslinksbetweenScienceandsociety.

OthersmayfollowGCSEcoursesinthethreeseparateSciences of Physics, Chemistry and Biology. There are manyopportunitiesforenrichmentworkandextensionwork. Throughout their upper school work, students are taughtbymembersofstaffwithspecialisttopicexpertise.For each student, one member of the Science staff takes a leadincoursework,reportsandcontactwithparents–toensure continuity, to monitor progress, and to ensure that each student progresses in Science to the best of his or her ability.

Scienceistaughtinasuiteofsixup-to-the-minutelaboratories.Twomore,fullyequippedfor‘A’Levelstudiesin Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Applied Science, are partofourSixthFormprovision.WehavecloselinkswithScience City York, Smith and Nephew, the National Science LearningCentreandmanyotherlocalScience–basedorganisations. We aim to help students become confident citizensinanincreasinglytechnologicalworld.Wehopetostimulate curiosity about Science and its applications, an understanding of its limits, respect for living things, concern for personal health, care for the environment and wonder at theuniverse–andsopreparestudentsfortheirfuturelivesasinformedcitizensorforfurtherstudy.

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Sixth Form educationOur purpose built Sixth Form offers Sixth Form provision of the highest quality at Archbishop Holgate’s in a dedicated learning environment with state-of-the-art facilities.

We are committed to ensuring that qualities at the heart of the school’s success – Christian values, care for the individual and high achievement – are key features of the Sixth Form provision at our Sixth Form. We are equally committed to the highest quality guidance and support as our students move towards independence.

A great emphasis is placed on a professional and business like working environment, with every student known as an individualandcaredforasanindividual;aSixthForminwhich our students can feel secure, supported and can give their very best.

Ouraimistocreateapositive,warmatmosphere,inwhich every student can work hard, receive recognition for theirachievementsandaimforexcellence,andinwhichstudentsandourexperiencedstaffcanworktogetherwithmutual respect, courtesy and consideration for each other.

When work is not completed on time or behaviour is unprofessionaltheSixthFormwilltakeafirmbutsupportiveline and challenge the student to improve. We provide our students with every opportunity for the best possible education, through a curriculum which is broad and balanced.

Aswellasasuiteof‘A’Level,AdvancedDiplomaandBTECcourses, qualifications that combine academic rigour and applied learning, we also offer a highly successful Work RelatedLearningprogramme.ThesequalificationsarecentraltoourSixthFormprovisiontoensuretheschoolmakes a distinctive contribution to the City’s educational provision and future economic and employment needs, and most importantly meets the needs of all of our students as they prepare for university.

Business links are outstanding. Collaboration is at the heart of the provision, offering opportunities to develop learning and enrichment opportunities here and in partnership with other high performing schools and businesses.

We value a close working relationship between students, parentsandtheSixthForm.IfyouwouldliketofindoutmoreaboutArchbishopHolgate’sSixthFormpleasemakeanappointmenttoseetheDirectorofSixthForm.

Director of Sixth Form

Moving into secondary school

The school day

School life

Homework

School uniform

Travelling to & from school

School meals

Extra-curricular activities & trips

Admissions

Admissions Policy for Year 7 2012

Further information

Archbishop Holgate’s School governors

Additional information

We recognise that starting secondary school is a significant moment for each young person and their family and at Archbishop Holgate’s we are proud of the successful transition arrangements that offer support and security during this process.

During their last half term at Primary school, many Year 6 students transferring to Archbishop Holgate’s School are visited at their primary school by members of the Pastoral team including the Head of Year 7. The purpose of this visit is to allay any fears they may have about transferring to secondary school. All information passed on is student orientated,andinformsthemofwhattoexpect,andwhatisexpectedofthem.Studentsaregivenachancetoaskquestions at this informal meeting and wherever possible we try to place students into classes with some children that they already know, to help them settle in quickly and feel valued.

This is followed in June by a Welcome Evening for Year 6 parents and their children. The purpose of the evening is to welcome both students and parents alike, inform them of specific procedures, remind them of the impending Day Visit and meet members of the School Association.

All Year 6 students are then given a day release from their primary schools to spend a day at Archbishop Holgate’s. Thevisitusuallyrunsfrom10.00amto3.00pmonthefirstWednesday in July. Students meet their Form Tutor and the other members of their Form for the first time; begin to become familiar with day-to-day routines and the layout of the school; sample the school lunch system; and spend an afternoon in lessons. A number of other initiatives are also in place, including work with Year 5 students in Science, Maths,Technology,EnglishandMusic,ModernLanguagesand PE.

OnceschoolstartsinSeptemberstudentsmeettheirFormTutor each day. This is the person who will be responsible for their pastoral care, support them in their progress, and encourage them to make the most of the many opportunities at Archbishop Holgate’s School.

A number of other staff help new students feel at home asquicklyaspossible.MrsSylph,theAssistantHeadfor Pastoral Care and Inclusion, oversees the welfare and progress of students throughout their first years at Archbishop Holgate’s, and in particular works hard to ensure the smoothest possible transition into the school fromourpartnerprimaryschools.SheisassistedbyMissNicol, the Head of Year 7. All pastoral staff work closely togetherundertheguidanceofMrsLawes,HeadofStaff

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Moving into secondary school

and Students, to support and advise students and parents, and, working with Form Tutors, to oversee the progress and welfare of the students in their care.

The Form Tutor or the Head of Year are therefore the people to contact first in school if you, or your child, have any worries or difficulties. Please do not hesitate to ring or e-mailourSchoolReceptionists,sothattheycanmakeanappointment for you to see the most appropriate member of staff.

Ourwhole-schoolapproachtoSpecialNeedsisdesignedto help all students take full advantage of what Archbishop Holgate’s has to offer. We aim to be sensitive to the fullrangeofneedsandabilities.OurhighlyregardedprogrammeofExtensionStudiesprovidesspecialout-of-hours learning courses of study for gifted and talented students. For those needing help with academic progress orsocialskills,LearningSupporthelpsstudentsgainconfidence in basic skills. This may be in small groups with specialist teachers, in the classroom with support from a school assistant, one-to-one with another adult in our well-resourcedLearningSupportenvironment,orthroughspecial learning materials in the student’s usual classroom. One-to-onecounselling,guidanceandsupportmayalsobe arranged when needed through our Intensive Support Worker.

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We fully understand the need to ensure an effective transition from primary to secondary school and strive to go theextramiletoensurethatthishappens.

We also value the part that parents can play in this and as such all parents are automatically members of the School Association, which organises a range of events during the year promoting links between home and school. Parents and staff are able to meet to discuss matters of interest; membersofthecommunityarewarmlywelcomed.Moneyraised is used to benefit the education and opportunities of all the students in the school. Year 7 parents are invited toaReceptionEveninginSeptemberatwhichtheycanmeet their child’s Head of Year and senior staff. A typical year’s School Association programme may include events rangingfromaquiznighttoafashionshow,linedancingtoan auction of promises. The aim in each case is to combine an enjoyable evening with support for the school. School AssociationmembersalsodoexcellentworkmeetingprospectiveparentsatOpenEvening,servingrefreshmentsat concerts and shows, and helping with the Year 6 Welcome Evening.

OurValuesForgiveness

FollowingJesus’exampleforgiveness is at the centre of all we do. Showing forgiveness requires us to have courage and strength, bringing us freedom from anger and a sense of peace. Forgiveness means we take responsibility for what we have done wrong and we desire not to do again.

Keeping in touch with your child’s progress

We believe in close co-operation and partnership between parents, students and school. There are several ways in which we keep you in touch with your child’s progress at Archbishop Holgate’s School:

Parents’ Evenings–ThereisanopportunityintheAutumnTerm for Year 7 parents to meet their child’s Form Tutor and discusshisorherwelfareandprogress.Laterintheyearparentsareinvitedtomeetsubjectteachers.Otherparents’evenings give parents every opportunity to meet staff and discusstheirchildren’sprogressfromYear8to13.

Homework Diaries–Theseareusedbystudentsinall years to record homework set and help in meeting homework deadlines. We ask parents to sign the Homework Diary each week as a way of helping them keep in touch with progress and work being done.

Work in progress–Parentsareencouragedtomonitorprogressbytakinganinterestinexercisebooks,folders,coursework etc. particularly when students are completing homework. Encouragement at home is a good stimulus to helping young people to give of their best.

Reports–Thesearewrittenregularlybysubjectteachers.Theyaresenthomeandacopykeptinschool.Reportsarenormally followed by parents’ evenings.

Progress summaries–Thesearetimedbetweenfullreports and show achievement in each subject together with how progress compares with each student’s individual target grades.

Further Communication–Staffmonitortheprogressofallstudents continuously, through day-to-day contact, marking, and regular reviews during which staff meet to discuss the progress of all individual students, classes and year groups. If we feel there is cause for concern we will write, telephone or e-mail. In the same way, if parents have worries about the progress of their children, we would like to know what is giving concern. We will do all we can to help.

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School life

8:50 Bell - students enter school for registration with form teachers. (Students who need to arrive early are welcomed into the school library.)

9:00 Lesson 1

10:00 Lesson 2

11:00 Break

11:15 Lesson 3

12:15 Lunch

1:10 Registration with form teachers

1:15 Assembly

1:25 Lesson 4

2:25 Lesson 5

3:25 End of school

The school day

School uniformAt Archbishop Holgate’s we believe smart uniform sets the tone for the high standards we are aiming for in all aspects of school life. We are proud of our uniform, and ask students to be dressed as follows:

Lower School (Years 7-9):Claret sweatshirt

White polo shirt

Navy blue or black skirt or trousers

Plain dark shoes

Upper School (Years 10-11):Navy blue sweatshirt

White polo shirt

Navy blue or black skirt or trousers

Plain dark shoes

Sweatshirts and polo shirts are embroidered with the school’s mitre logo.

Travelling to & from schoolOn foot–ApelicancrossingtakesstudentsacrosstheHullRoad.Staffareondutyeachdaytoensurethatstudentsleave the school site safely.

By cycle–Manystudentscycletoschoolandparktheircycles in the Cycle Stores. The school cannot, however, accept responsibility for cycles left on school premises. We therefore ask parents to ensure that cycles are security coded, insured and securely locked. We encourage students cycling to school to wear a helmet.

By car–Studentsmaybedroppedsafelyattheschoolgates.

By bus–ThereareservicesdirecttoArchbishopHolgate’sfrom Heworth, Hempland, Appletree Village and Ashley Park; and from Stamford Bridge. Archbishop Holgate’s is well served by buses from all parts of York, and further afield, including Pocklington and Wilberfoss. Students livingintheDunnington,Elvington,Warthill,GateHelmsleyand Stamford Bridge areas may qualify for free transport: details are available on request.

School mealsSchoolmealsareexcellent,withagoodchoiceeachdayof hot main meals, healthy-style dishes, snacks, salads and cold foods available at a cash-cafeteria. Prices vary, but£2.30willnormallycoverthecostofagoodmeal.Alternatively, students may eat packed lunches in the dining hall. Students staying at school are supervised at lunchtime.

If you think your child may be entitled to free meals please contact the school for further information.

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HomeworkEverystudentisexpectedtodoregularhomeworktodevelop work done in school. Homework can take many forms–preparingahead,reading,research,writingup,learning, or finishing work started in class. It should occupy a few hours per week in Years 7 to 9. In Years 10 and 11, dependingontheexamcoursesbeingfollowed,itmayoccupyuptotwohourspernight.ForSixthFormstudents,homework is supplemented by supervised private study. Students record the homework set in a Homework Diary which also works as a personal organiser. Parents are asked to sign the Homework Diary each week. Written comments will be especially welcome.

It is important that homework is completed well and on time. Parents can help their children with this responsibility by encouraging them to plan a regular homework time, such as late afternoon or early evening; trying to provide a firm, well-lit working surface in a place which is free from distractions; and supporting them by looking from time to time at the work in progress, to encourage them to give of their best. If you feel that your child is worried by too much homework, or if you are concerned about an apparent lack of homework, please get in touch with the Form Tutor or the Head of Year, or write a brief note in the Homework Diary.

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Extra-curricular activities & tripsExtra-curricularactivitiesandtripsbothlocallyandabroad play a very important part in the enrichment of school life. Year 7 students are offered a residential at Bewerley Park to foster group identity and teamwork in a secure environment through outdoor and adventurous activities. There are many opportunities through sport, music, drama, the creative arts, theatre visits, enterprise challenges, a wide range of clubs and societies, fieldwork, study visits, community links and charity work.

Particularextra-curricularhighlightsincludeshows;concerts; the Duke of Edinburgh Award; Activities Days; residentialvisitsabroadeg.SouthAfrica,Kenya,Germanyand America, for study, service to others, personal growth orpleasure;theLeavers’Prom;andtheschool’sannualCarolServiceinYorkMinster.

AdmissionsHow do I enrol my child at Archbishop Holgate’s?

If your child is at a York primary school:

RequestaplaceatArchbishopHolgate’sfromtheCityofYork Council via the cities Common Application Form. The form should be returned to the City Council on line. It is importantthatyouexpressapreferenceforArchbishopHolgate’s on this form, and that you return the form by 31st October.YouwillhearinMarchwhichsecondaryschoolisoffering your child a place.

If you are applying for a Foundation place, you also need to fill in the school’s Foundation application form. Ensure a completedMinister’sReferenceaccompaniesit.Detailsofthe criteria for Foundation places are set out in the school’s AdmissionsPolicyonthenextpageandonthewebsite.Extracopiesofallthesedocumentscanbeobtainedfromthe school. Please return Foundation application and reference forms directly to the Admissions Secretary at Archbishop Holgate’s, by 31st October. For a Community place you need to take no further action.

If your child is at a primary school outside York:

The application procedure is as above, but please note thatdifferentLocalAuthoritiesmayhavedifferentclosingdatesforsecondaryschoolchoices.TheEastRiding,workstoasimilarreturndateforformsof31stOctober;howeverwhereyourLocalAuthorityasksforanearlydate,pleasealso return any Archbishop Holgate’s forms by the same earlydate,sothatwecanworkinpartnershipwithLocalAuthority staff.

If your child is at another secondary school, or if you are moving into the area:

Please contact the Admissions Secretary, eitherbyletter,bytelephone:01904411341 or e-mail: [email protected]. Wewillbehappytoexplaintheproceduretoyou.

Well over half our students come to Archbishop Holgate’s from outside the school’s designated catchment area, and their applications are warmly welcomed. Foundation places are offered on faith grounds to members of Christian churches and other major world faiths. Community places are offered to those seeking a school with a Christian tradition, with priority first to siblings, second to students living in the area normally served by the school, third to those with the closest safe walking route. As part of enrolment, students complete an Admission Form. Students and parents also sign an Acceptance Form, based on the school’s aims, and marking the beginning of a partnership between home and school.

Admissions checklist

1. Find out about the school–fromtheProspectus;fromvisitingtheschoolonourOpenEveninginOctober;fromthe website; or from personal contact. Decide whether you can commit to the aims, values and ethos of the school.

2. Find out about the school’s admissions procedure –ItshouldbenotedthatforSeptember2012,40Foundation and 122 Community places were available.

3. Find out about the Local Authority’s admissions procedure–fromAGuidetoParents(CityofYorkCouncil)orSecondarySchoolAdmissions(EastRidingofYorkshireCouncil).

4. Complete an Archbishop Holgate’s School Application Form–On-lineapplicationisnotpossible.Formsareobtainable from the school and are returned direct to the school. Application forms must reach the school’s Admissions Secretary by the last day of December.

5. Inform the Local Authority–CompleteandreturntheCommonApplicationFormforyourLocalAuthority.InstructionsareissuedbytheLA.FormsarereturnedtotheLA.

If you need further information–pleasebeintouchwiththeAdmissionsSecretary,MrsJ.Sissons.Shewillbepleased to answer any questions you may have and will do all she can to help.

Admissions - key dates

13thOctober

ThisisthedateofArchbishopHolgate’sSchoolOpenEvening which starts at 7 p.m. Parents travelling by car are encouraged to aim to arrive by 6.45 p.m. to give ample time for parking. The evening is always tremendously busy.

31stOctober

LatestdateforparentstocompletethesecondaryschoolchoicepreferencesheetfortheirLocalAuthority.

EastRidingparentsarealsoencouragedtoreturnArchbishop Holgate’s School application forms by this date. Applicationforms(withreferenceformwhereappropriate)are sent directly to the Admissions Secretary, Archbishop Holgate’s School.

End of December

For admission into Year 7 in September 2012, school application forms must reach the school’s Admissions Secretary by the last day of December 2011.

BeginningofMarch

Parents are informed about secondary school allocations.

If you need help or advice...

Information about admissions in York is available from the Admissions team, City of York Council. Alternatively, please ring our Admissions Secretary; on the school telephone number01904411341,whowillbeveryhappytoexplaintheprocedures to you.

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Admissions Policy for Year 7 in September 2012Archbishop Holgate’s is a Voluntary Aided Church of England Academy serving the whole community in which it is set. It is committed to giving its students the best possible educational opportunities whilst living Christian values into being, within the tradition of the Anglican church. From its foundation in 1546, Archbishop Holgate’s has welcomed applications from both its local community and a wider area, and continues to do so as a Voluntary Aided school.

The number of places available for admission into Year 7 is 162. These are divided into two categories:

Foundation places are allocated on faith grounds to members of Christian churches and the other major world faiths. There will be up to 42 Foundation places available each year. If all Foundation places are not allocated, the remainder will become available for Community applicants.

Community places are for parents who live in the area normally served by the school and the wider community, and who want their child to attend a school with a Christian tradition. There will be at least 120 Community places available each year. After considering those with special circumstances including children with statements and looked after children, priority is given first to siblings, second to students living in the area normally served by the school, third to those with the closest safe walking route.

Foundation places

The threshold for consideration for a Foundation place will be two years’ attendanceatworshipbyparents/carerpriortotheapplication(November2011).ApplicationswhichdonotqualifyforaFoundationplacewillautomatically be considered for Community places. In accordance with the law and recommended practice, priority will be given to Foundation applicants qualifying for a place who are also looked after.

If the number of applicants meeting the threshold for consideration for the remaining Foundation places is greater than the number of places available, places will be offered to applicants in the following priority order:

1. Anapplicant‘attheheartofthechurch’–aregularworshipper,bywhich is meant one who worships at a Christian church normally twice a month. Within this category, the worshipper may be one or both parents/carers, or, provided the minimum threshold for consideration for a Foundation place is met, the child for whom the application is made.

2. Anapplicant‘attachedtothechurch’–aregularbutnotfrequentworshipper, by which is meant a parent or carer who usually attends a monthly service or is regularly involved in a weekday church activity including an element of worship.

3. Anapplicant‘knowntothechurch’–notaregularbutanoccasionalworshipper, by which is meant a parent or carer who attends at least sixtimesperyear.Thismaybethroughuniformedorotherchurchorganisations.

If there are more applicants for Foundation places within any given qualifying criterion than there are places remaining, the places for these applicants willbeallocatedtostudentswhosehomesarefurthestawayfromtheirnextnearest available Church of England secondary school, measured by the closest safe walking route. Any remaining applicants will automatically be considered for a Community place. All applicants for Foundation places must submit, with their application form, a reference form from a minister of religion or faith group leader. Christian churches are defined as churches belonging to Churches Together in Britain and Ireland. Up to 10% of Foundation places will be available for children of active worshipping familiesofothermajorworldfaiths(Buddhism,Hinduism,Islam,JudaismandSikhism)whoseapplicationsaresupportedbyanappropriatereference.

Community places

Archbishop Holgate’s VA School is committed to serving its local community andworkinginpartnershipwiththeLocalAuthorityandneighbouringschools.ThecriteriaoppositearebasedcloselyontheLocalAuthority’sadmissions policy.

Inaccordancewithlawandrecommendedpractice,Governorswillgiveprior consideration to: students having statements of special educational need which, after discussion with the school, name Archbishop Holgate’s; to‘lookedafter’children–placesforlookedafterchildrenwillbeallocatedinthelightofadvicefromtheLocalAuthoritySocialServicesteam;andtostudentsconsideredbytheGovernorstohaveotherexceptionalsocialormedicalneedsspecifictoArchbishopHolgate’sSchool–parentsapplyingunder this criterion will already have consulted the school about its suitability for their child, and will provide written references from the Director of Social Services or a consultant medical practitioner.

If the number of applicants is greater than the number of places available, priority will then be given according to the following criteria:

1. To students having a sibling attending Archbishop Holgate’s School at thebeginningoftheterminquestion.(‘Siblings’ are defined as brothers or sisters living in the same house, as their primary place of residence, including half- and step-brothers or sisters).

2. Tostudentslivingintheareanormallyservedbytheschool.(‘The area normally served by the school’ is the school’s priority admissions area as defined by the Local Authority and as set out in its Guide for Parents. ‘Living in the area’ is defined as the parent/guardian and child being ordinarily resident at an address in the area defined above. You may be asked for evidence of residence).

3. Tostudentswiththeclosestsafewalkingroute.(‘The closest safe walking route’ is defined as the distance from home to school as measured from the home address to the nearest entrance to the school site using the Local Authority’s computerised measuring system).

If there are more applicants within any given qualifying criterion up to and including criterion 2 than there are places remaining, the places for these applicants will be allocated to students with the closest safe walking route.

Late applications

Forms received from those moving into the area normally served by the school,asdefinedbytheLAandsetoutinitsGuideforParents,andreceivedby31stDecember2011,willbeincludedintheinitialallocation.Forms received from those moving into the area after that date will be given individualconsideration.Otherlateformswillonlybeconsideredafterallothers.

Waiting list

Applicants who are unsuccessful in obtaining a place have the right to appeal, but will on written request be placed on a waiting list ranked according to the criteria used for admission to the school and set out in this policy.Thewaitinglistwillbemaintaineduntil31stDecemberofyearofentry.

Applying for a place

For Community applications: application for a place at Archbishop Holgate’s School is through the Common Application Form of the child’s ‘home’LocalAuthority.Aslateapplicationformswillonlybeconsideredbythe school after all others, parents are particularly asked to ensure that the Common Application Form is returned direct to the ‘home’ Local Authority byitsdeadline.ForboththeCityofYorkandtheEastRidingthedeadlineis31stOctober2011.Forotherlocalauthoritiespleasecheck:pleasealsowriteto let us know of your application.

For Foundation applications

There are three forms to fill in. Applicants for a Foundation place must fill in the Common Application Form of the child’s ‘home Local Authority’ as set outabove.Thisisreturnedtothe‘home’LocalAuthority.Parentsarealsoasked to complete a supplementary School Application Form, together with a completed Reference Form from your priest, minister or faith group leader, to assist the school in applying its oversubscription criteria. Please ensure these two supplementary forms are completed as accurately and fully as possible, and that they are returned direct to the school. The school will withdraw the offer of a school place if an application is found to be fraudulent. School application forms and reference forms are available direct from the school. They are also available from City of York Council SchoolAdmissions,MillHouse,NorthStreet,York.Pleaseensurethatall information supplied is accurate. Early receipt will be welcomed. For admission into Year 7 in September 2012, school application forms must reach the school’s Admissions Secretary by the last day of December 2011.

Policy approved November 2010

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Further informationAnyone wishing to find out more about Archbishop Holgate’s School, a Church of England Academy is warmly welcomed to contact the school. If you are unable to find what you need in this prospectus or on our website www.archbishopholgates.org do not hesitate to contact the Headteacher who will do everything possible to make the necessary information available.

The education at Archbishop Holgate’s School that takes place within school hours, and that forms a part ofaprescribedexaminationsyllabusorpartofNationalCurriculum requirements, is offered free of charge. Charges may be sought for certain visits and activities, board andlodging,musicaltuition,examinationfeesincertainindividual cases, and materials for practical subjects where the finished product is retained. Parents on Income Support may request remission of charges for compulsory board

and lodging, and may be considered for assistance within the limits of available funding for musical tuition and visits within school hours. The full school policy on charging and remissions follows the principles of the City of York policy; it is available on request.

The admissions limit for September 2012 entry is 162. Further information on admissions procedures have been included in this prospectus and the full school’s Admissions Policy and record is on our website. An application form isavailablefromtheschool,andintheGuidetoParentspublished each Autumn by City of York Council Educational Services,MillHouse,NorthStreet,YorkYO16JD.

Authorised absence during 2010-2011 is recorded. This can beaccessedonlineusingtheVLE.

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Parents are reminded that the school carries no insurance covering students’ property or accidents to students. Parents are encouraged to ensure that cycles, valuables and students’ other personal property are properly insured. Personal Accident Insurance Scheme leaflets are available from school. Parents are urged to share concerns informally with the school at an early stage. Formal complaints procedures, including details of official procedures for looking at concerns about the National Curriculum, ReligiousEducation,andotherissues,areavailablefromschool.

Although the information in this prospectus is correct at the time of publication this information is continually been updated. Parents seeking up-to-date information on particular points are asked to check with the school. Meanwhilewewillkeepparentsinformedofnew

developments. We aim at all times to work closely with parents in providing the best possible education and opportunities for the students of Archbishop Holgate’s School.

OurValuesTrust


Archbishop Holgate’s School governorsTheGoverningBodyisastrongworkinggroup,committedtothewelfareoftheschool.FoundationGovernorsmeetaspartofthefullGoverningBody,andasaseparategrouptosupport the spiritual and moral dimension of school life and exercisetrusteeshipoftheschoolbuildings.Inrecentyearsthe Foundation has funded significant enhancements to the school’s facilities; the Pool, the Chapel, new facilities in ScienceandTechnology,thenewfrontofschool,theLibraryandexcellentcomputerfacilities.

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I’mexcitedaboutthebreadthandthequalityofprovisionand care we can offer at Archbishop Holgate’s School.

There is a real sense of energy, commitment and determination from teaching colleagues and I know students will be energised and inspired not only by what they learn, but by how they learn it. There is no great teaching without great teachers, and the enthusiasm, ability and professionalism of our staff is second to none.

What makes Archbishop Holgate’s unique? Naturally there’sarelentlessfocusonmaximumachievementforallstudents. But it’s much more than that. It’s a combination of the calibre and commitment of its staff, the personalised learning environment we can offer, the breadth of the curriculum enrichment available, and our distinctive values. Alliedtoadeepunderstandingandexperiencetheseallcombine to provide an unbeatable offer.

Oneofthepostersdisplayedonthewallinschoolsumsupour continuing ambition for students and staff: “Work hard to become good. Then work hard to become better.”

We look forward to welcoming your son or daughter to Archbishop Holgate’s School.

John Hattam

Chairman,ArchbishopHolgate’sSchoolGoverningBody

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Archbishop Holgate’s School York, YO10 5ZA

Telephone: 01904 411341

Email: [email protected]

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Archbishop Holgate’s has always been a Church school. It was founded by Robert Holgate, Archbishop of York and one of the leading statesmen of the reign of King Henry VIII. Its first three hundred years were in tiny premises in the shadow of York Minster, between Ogleforth and the city walls. Classical languages and scripture were important parts of the curriculum. Links with York Minster were close; Archbishop Holgate’s was for a long period the school attended by the Minster choirboys.

In 1858 the chance came to move to the fine buildings on Lord Mayor’s Walk that today form the centre of York St John University. Some students received scholarships, but most paid fees. Students came to Archbishop’s not only from York but also from the three Ridings and even beyond. Many were boarders. By the turn of the century, Archbishop Holgate’s had been designated as a Science school. Science and Technology continue to be a strength of the school: both faculties at Archbishop Holgate’s have been acknowledged as outstanding.

465 years of education

Values

Care

Achievement

In 1963 Archbishop Holgate’s School moved to spacious new premises on the Hull Road in the parish of Heslington, next to the new University of York which was established in the same year. In 1985 it became a mixed comprehensive, one of only four Church of England secondary schools in the Diocese of York. In 2004 the shift to Voluntary Aided Status marked a deepening of the schools commitment to its Christian foundations. Since this time the school has regained its 11-18 status and achieved national recognition for the quality of its leadership, its results, its strong track record of development, its support for other schools, and its capacity for further improvement. The successful transition to academy status in April 2011 and the rapidly expanding Sixth Form means that the school looks forward to the next stage of its history with confidence and optimism.

Hull Road, York, North Yorkshire YO10 5ZA Tel: 01904 411341 Fax: 01904 414948

Email: [email protected] Web: www.archbishopholgates.org

Archbishop Holgate’s School

Our mission

Christian values

an ethos which lives Christian values into being

Care for the individual

effective pastoral care with students valued as

individuals

Maximum achievement

maximum achievement for each student at all levels

Archbishop Holgate's School Prospectus 2011

Documents

Transcript of Archbishop Holgate's School Prospectus 2011