Fairfield Newsletter Autumn 1 2012
Transcription
Fairfield Newsletter Autumn 1 2012
Autumn 1 Newsletter 2012 Headlines This summer, for the fifth year in a row, we produced our best ever GCSE results. 99% of pupils obtained 5 or more A* - C grades and 78% obtained 5 or more A* - C grades including GCSE English and Mathematics. Despite the challenging economic circumstances, fewer Year 11 leavers were NEETs (not in education, employment or training) than last year. The above outcomes were particularly pleasing because Year 11 had come from a lower starting point than previous years and because, across the country, results had suffered as a result of the fall in English grades. To continue to maintain our high standards this year, we will focus on the following: Areas where there is room for improvement in pupil achievement Providing the highest quality of teaching The curriculum, in terms of literacy, numeracy and as the provider of a greater variety of rich experiences and opportunities (L-R) Erin Valentine (7A*s, 5As), Chloe Jones (10A*s, 2As), Sarah Hogan (7A*s, 5As), Rebecca Lai (10A*s, 2As) and Anna Hart (8A*s, 4As) The last point is absolutely critical to ensuring that every single girl makes outstanding progress and our staff training this year will focus on teaching and learning. At the start of the year, I would like to draw your attention to the long list of extra-curricular activities on offer this term and I ask you to encourage your daughter to find something in which to get involved. For new pupils, the Friday Friendship and SHINE (Students Happy In a New Environment) groups are great ways to get to know people. Mr J. Hedley Headteacher The Big Tidy Up 2012 Leavers’ Prom Just before the end of the last term, when we were in Year 7, our Form went out onto Fairfield Avenue and tided up lots of rubbish. We did this out of respect for the community. We had to wear bright green plastic tabards to protect our clothes and we each had a litter picker and glass proof gloves to protect our hands. We had a special box for glass and bottles and, if there was any broken glass, we had to inform Mr Di Paola and he came to move it for health and safety reasons. We collected over 20 full bin bags. We found various pieces of rubbish including food wrappers, cans, and glass bottles. Our Form made an effort to clean all the alley-way up, but in the last 3 months the rubbish has been building up again. Mr Di Paola might be asking for volunteers to help clean to alley again so get thinking if you would like to help us improve the environment. All of our Form recommend helping to clean the Avenue as we all had a brilliant time. Georgia Evans and Jessica Phillips, 8F Tel: 0161 370 1488 E-mail: admin@fairfieldhigh.tameside.sch.uk At the end of the summer term, Fairfield High School for Girls held its annual Prom to say a final farewell to Year 11. The evening started at 7pm with our former pupils arriving in style in stretched limousines and executive saloons. The girls looked stunning; they had spent most of the day preparing for the event, donning expensive ball gowns and prom dresses and getting their hair and nails done. Organised by the Head Girl and her team, the event comprised a gourmet three course meal, a highly experienced photographer and DJ. This year the girls had also organised elegantly lit table decorations, disposable cameras to capture the event and a sweets table full of traditional treats. After a gorgeous meal and a speech from Mr Hedley, pupils danced until late and had a thoroughly enjoyable evening. Mr Williams Web: www.fairfieldhigh.tameside.sch.uk Page 1 Head Girl Team news Planetarium visit Before the holidays, Year 7s had the opportunity to experience a planetarium. As Head Girl I believe it would be nice to include a bulletin from me, or any other member of the Head Girl Team, in each newsletter. The purpose of this would be to give you a general insight into what it is like to be on the Head Girl Team, what we’re all up to, upcoming events and so on. It looked scary when we first looked at the dome but once inside it was brilliant! The beginning of a new half term and my first as Head Girl has, as expected, brought lots of new tasks into my school day. With the Head Girl Team I have spent many hours tweaking the Prefect Rota and discussing, as a Team, things we would like to achieve. These have been very enjoyable of course! Mr Green talked about space. The planets, stars and star signs were great to look at, spinning around the dome, it was really exciting! Prefecting has been our biggest task, although we are now moving on to planning the Year 7 Christmas Party, alongside the Lead Prefects who have adopted a new role this year, working closely with Year 7. Party planning is a love of mine, and the first step to take is deciding a theme for the whole event to be based on. Once the theme is ticked off the list, we can go into further depth in order to make the party one that Year 7 will remember in years to come. Mr Green told us to close our eyes if we got dizzy because he was going to spin the stars around really fast - it was great fun to watch. After it was over, no-one wanted to leave! We would love to go and watch it again! Georgia Lomas, 8E Pupils visit Slattery’s Chocolatier During the summer term, 80 Year 10s (now Year 11) pupils took part in a Food Technology competition to design and create a dessert which could be served in a restaurant. We had to make sure it looked appetising and tasted just as good. Mrs Middleton and Mrs Duncan invited two members of the office staff to come and judge the desserts. 21 winners were chosen and the prize for each was an afternoon visit to Slattery’s On behalf of the team (Georgia Hampson, Lauri Dale, Emily Coward and Joanna Leigh) I would like to make sure that every girl knows they can approach us with any questions or queries. I know when I was a younger pupil I was always curious as to what the Head Girl Team were up to – if this is you too, please ask! Happy first half-term! Holly Beddingfield, 11C ‘Lionheart Enterprise’ Regional Final This event took place in July, at the Reebok Stadium in Bolton for the winning team of the Year 10 Enterprise Challenge. chocolatier in Whitefield. The visit took place on Tuesday, 7th June 2011. We stayed from 10am until 1pm. During this time we were given the opportunity to look around the shop and buy a few things. After that, we then went upstairs and listened to a talk about chocolate, where we learnt many interesting things we didn’t previously know and watched as the lady who ran the course transformed chocolate into things like truffles and chocolate lollies. The team was a strong one, comprising Emily Currie, Katie Bromley, Elena Farres, Chloe Dootson, Emma Bragg, Shuly Begum, Emma Wilde and Olivia Barker. They pitted their business skills against many other schools from across the region in a challenge to design a product which would help paramedics to save more lives. Their idea of a special foam which stabilised knife wounds impressed the judging panel and they ended a very intensive day winning the category of ‘Best Marketing Plan.’ We were then allowed to prepare and make our own hand made chocolates. Any chocolates and lollies we made we were allowed to take home for free. Notice to Parents This was a wonderful opportunity; we all really enjoyed ourselves and ate lots of chocolate! Thank you to Fairfield for arranging this for us. Good luck to all the Year 10s next year! Jessica Hardy, 11F Tel: 0161 370 1488 Mr Johnson We are pleased to advise parents that we now have two defibrillators installed in the school and that various staff have had the appropriate training in their use. Mr Cook E-mail: admin@fairfieldhigh.tameside.sch.uk Web: www.fairfieldhigh.tameside.sch.uk Page 2 Girls’ Mathematical Olympiad Library news We now have nine Kindles available for pupils to use in the Library at break, lunch and after school. They hold a selection of classic literature and foreign l a n gu a ge di ct io na r i es; further titles will be added over the coming weeks. Pupils will be able to suggest books they feel will be a good addition to the selection, particularly books to be read by our Reading Group or to share with friends. In September, four of our gifted and talented mathematicians sat the exam for the Girls’ Mathematical Olympiad, run by the United Kingdom Mathematics Trust (UKMT). The paper is an incredibly challenging set of problems which pupils work on for three hours. Successful applicants receive training to represent the UK in the European Girls’ Mathematical Olympiad. We are currently awaiting results from this but the Maths department would like to congratulate Holly Beddingfield (11C), Niamh Farren (11E), Chloe Dootson (11E) and Lauren Reynolds (11G) for their hard work and enthusiasm. Miss Bates Mrs Mutter History revision classes Year 10s visit Alton Towers Are you studying History? Is your target grade an A*, an A or a B? Would you like to fab up your knowledge for your Controlled Assessment? Would you like to enhance your already-gigantic brain functions before the January Paper I Exam? Are you thinking of doing A-level History? If the answer to any of the above questions is yes, then you may be interested in... At the end of the last term, 89 Year 10 pupils (now Year 11) were invited to go on an exciting trip to Alton towers. This was a reward for their excellent behaviour and organisation throughout the year. We departed from school in 3 big coaches at 8.30 am. Then after two long hours of scary tight squeezes and many traffic issues - we arrived! Lots of group photos were taken whilst we waited on our longed-for full day passes. This is a group to help you to improve your Higher Order Thinking and thereby improve your performance in your Controlled Assessment and in your G.C.S.Es. We shall be meeting in F24 on Mondays after school (2.45pm3.45pm), starting after half term. Order of play for next half term is as follows: 5th November: Joseph Stalin – Fiendish or Frightfully Nice? 19th November: Joseph Stalin - Would you take him home to meet your mother? 3rd December: The Treaty of Versailles – Would it have been more jolly with the Germans at the Party? 17th December: Does Santa rule his Elves with a Totalitarian Regime? Once in the park, we were joined by several other schools. Although we had to wait roughly 2 hours for the popular ride Oblivion, we started talking to some other nice girls who were also from an all-girls school which was on the other side of the country! It was interesting to find out the differences between their school compared to ours. They told us how they felt about also being in an all-girls school, and obviously told us they loved it! At the end of the day, we had been on the majority of exciting rides (such as Oblivion and The Rapids), had a delicious Burger King, had two professional photos taken of us with our friends and of course shopped in the Ice Age store. Then, to end the day on a high, we went home traffic free! Overall, the day was fantastic and a great opportunity; it’s an amazing way to be rewarded. On behalf of all the pupils who went, we would like to thank everyone who was involved in making it happen and the teachers who kindly accompanied us there. Please let Miss Ridehalgh know if you are interested in attending. Miss Ridehalgh Tel: 0161 370 1488 Lauri Dale, 11G and Georgia Hampson, 11F E-mail: admin@fairfieldhigh.tameside.sch.uk Web: www.fairfieldhigh.tameside.sch.uk Page 3 Science Faculty News Since the last newsletter there have been several Science-based activities to educate and to stimulate thought. As always, many thanks to the staff, pupils, parents and visitors who have helped to make these activities such a success. Dr Beckett Director of Study, Science Chester Zoo Chester Zoo photography competitions In July, the whole of Year 7 went to Chester Zoo. We crowded onto the coaches and were very excited as we set off. It was a nice sunny day and when we arrived we were allowed to explore the zoo with our friends and see all the different animals. It was a great experience to see the amazing animals close up. All Year 7 pupils on the Chester Zoo trip were able to enter 2 competitions. Most of us went to see the new dinosaur exhibition. It was like going back to the past – they looked so real. For many of us, the monkeys were the favourite animals, with their cheeky faces and playful behaviour. Others liked the butterfly house the best. There were all different types and colours of butterflies and if you were lucky they would land on you. Some girls also got to do a ‘Handson’ lesson which was really fun and very interesting. They got to learn about different animals, their habitats and adaptations. When the time came to go home, we were a bit upset because we wanted to stay and have more fun and excitement! We all had a fantastic time and had lots of fun – it rated a 10/10. We couldn’t think of a better place to go. The Photography Competition saw a large number of entries. After careful deliberation, Georgia Marsh's photograph of an elephant eating was declared the winner of the Animal category, with Kyla Ravenscroft's picture of a resting tiger being runner-up. In the Plant category, the winning photograph was Wing Chen's composition of budding orange flowers with dark leaves, which just beat Laura Rose's meadow scene. The judges felt that the entries of Phoebe Verigotta, Amelia Cantwell-Hyde, Amy Rockett and Chloe Cheetham were also worthy of special mention. In the Chester Zoo Ecology Quiz, the overall winner was Jordan Riley. Other noteworthy entries were made by Katie Sonley, Georgia Lomas, Lucy Brooks, Melissa Hamlet and Jodie Cawthorne. Well done to every pupil who entered! Dr Beckett Director of Study - Science 1st Place - Animal category 1st Place - Plant category 2nd Place - Animal category 2nd Place - Plant category A big “thank you” to all the science teachers – they made this amazing trip possible. Article written by pupils in Science group 8.3. Quiz winners A-Z Newsletter Quiz (Summer 1 2012 newsletter) winners are: Molly Ryall Thomson (Year 8) Georgia Lomas (Year 8) Cristy Outhwaite (Year 11) Charys Finn (Year 8) Science A-Z Quiz (Easter 2012) winners are: Hafsa Farrukh (ex Year 7) Misha Farooq (ex Year 8) Shelly Khatun (ex Year 9) Caitlin Doherty (ex Year 10) Anna Hart (ex Year 11) ) Tel: 0161 370 1488 E-mail: admin@fairfieldhigh.tameside.sch.uk Cub Scouts Throughout September, a local Cub Scout pack visited Fairfield's Science laboratories to complete their Science Badge. Mr Rhodes, Miss Moss, Dr Cahill, Dr Beckett, Mrs Limen and Mrs Davenport helped the cubs to undertake activities such as monitoring the growth of seedlings, growing crystals, making a periscope and measuring the effect of exercise on pulse rate. Web: www.fairfieldhigh.tameside.sch.uk Page 4 Colleges Convention European Day of Languages On 24 September, the Year 9s celebrated the ‘European Day of Languages’ with a series of themed lessons and a theatre production in French. This annual event took place on the 10th October, with all Year 11s taking time out to attend and help make their minds up on where they are heading after Fairfield. The Hall was full of stands from all the local colleges, many of whom brought past Fairfield girls with them to help with the presentations. There were additional stalls from colleges from further afield such as Xaverian and Oldham Sixth Form and the event was again attended by representatives from Manchester University who helped with those girls looking even further into the future! Apprenticeships options were also represented by way of a talk by Mrs Kindley and a stall from Damar Training, an apprenticeships provider in the field of law and accountancy. Mr Johnson Macmillan Coffee Morning Fairfield participated in the nationwide Macmillan Coffee morning, again this year. Organised by Mrs Basterfield, Mrs Jessop and Mrs Knowles and thanks to numerous supporters, pupils and staff were treated to delicious cakes, biscuits and chocolates. Mrs Jessop sold yummy chocolate with scrumptious cream and sprinkles! Departments involved included: English, Geography, History, ICT, Maths, Music, Science and Modern Languages. Pupils undertook a range of activities from testing moisturisers from across Europe to looking at foreign-language adverts, ‘booking a holiday’ and researching the pitfalls of online translators! One of the highlights of the day was the French play which involved a large amount of audience participation, both from pupils and the staff! The main actor, Pierre, had to compose himself on a number of occasions due to laughing along with us so much. Many thanks to everyone who took part in making the day a great success. Mr Devine Visit by Tameside College hot Thanks to everyone who baked, donated, helped and supported, we raised £143.38 for this very worthy cause. Friday Friendship Club Friday Friendship is a club run for all Year 7s and it is a place where Year 7s can meet up, bring their friends or make new friends and have fun. This club is organised by Mrs Searle and Mrs Graham. We also have some Year 8 and Year 9 helpers. The helpers are girls who have attended Friday Friendship themselves and are trained to help with the planning and organisation of the club. We also cover a variety of topics by discussion/or activity sessions including: Settling in to Fairfield and getting to know each other Understanding friendship What is bullying and what can be done Emotions and feelings Stranger danger Peer pressure Smoking, drink and drugs Health and wellbeing On the last Friday of the summer term, pupils from Year 9 (now Year 10) had a visit from two members of the Catering Department of Tameside College who came to give us a ’Food Experience’! We were split into two sessions and each session was divided into two groups. One group was with Ray, who was very funny and Derek, who was very professional! I was in Ray’s group and we made home-made pasta and a sauce, each from scratch. After we did all the cooking we had the chance to taste the food that we had made. The other half of the group, who were with Derek, made fruit pies, shortbread and home-made bread. When all the cooking was finished they got to take the food home. At the end of the sessions we were given a talk about catering at Tameside College, to see if we wanted to take up a Cadet’s course at the College. Alongside this we play games, participate in fun activities and have parties. We also work together with other clubs within the school. Everyone was very enthusiastic about the course. We had a lot of fun with the chefs and learnt lots. We meet every Friday, in the Drama room at one o'clock. Mrs Graham and Mrs Searle Tel: 0161 370 1488 E-mail: admin@fairfieldhigh.tameside.sch.uk Chloe Kelly, 10E Web: www.fairfieldhigh.tameside.sch.uk Page 5 PE Department News We have had a busy start to the new academic year. Inter-school competitions are underway and extra-curricular activities are being well-attended. The very poor weather has not only affected PE lessons, but has unfortunately also caused the cancellation of several Tameside competitions. Mrs Dolan World Marathon Challenge Competitions Tameside has a comprehensive competition calendar and Fairfield has entered virtually all the competitions. We will be hoping to build on the great success we had last year. So far this term we have taken part in Badminton, Football, Netball and Athletics, details of which are included below. Badminton Over a two week period, our KS4 Badminton team played in the heats of the Tameside Badminton competition. Despite their best efforts, the team were runners up. However, they went on to play in the Plate Final, played here at Fairfield on 3rd October. The team of Hannah Bancroft, Samantha Ashton, Danielle Humphrey and Emma Nathaniel beat Alder and Droylsden to win Gold. Football Fairfield has once again entered teams in the Tameside Monthly Football League U14 and U16 competitions. Both teams have made a good start. U14 Football Squad Beth Thorley 9D Beth Taylor 8B U16 Football Squad Emily Shorrock 11F Olivia Lockett 11E Mackenzie Holland 8D Imogen Ward 8B Georgia Pownell 11F Tamara Keighley (GK) 10E Megan Banks-Carr 8G Megan McHugh 8G Phoebe Hughes 7B Maddison Schofield 7C Lucia Cicchirillo 10B Samantha Ashton 10F Niamh Howson 10C Netball Owing to the poor weather, the Year 8 and 9 tournaments were cancelled. However, the senior team played their tournament and will be playing in their league before half term . Senior-Year 10/11 Netball Squad Emily Summerfield Amy Lees Megan White Hannah Bancroft Emma Nathaniel Leonie Ormsby Olivia Power Georgia Williams Tel: 0161 370 1488 E-mail: admin@fairfieldhigh.tameside.sch.uk On Tuesday 16th October, sixteen Year 8 pupils teamed up with fifteen boys from West Hill to take part in the World Marathon Challenge at Sportcity. It was part of an event where teams of children across the world competed in a challenging simultaneous relay race in support of Save the Children. Seven teams from Greater Manchester took part at this particular venue. Local running legend, Ron Hill, started the race. Each child ran a 200m stretch, six or seven times each, passing a baton to their team-mates. Each team covered a total of 26.2 miles – a full Olympic marathon. Their aim: to beat Patrick Makau's brand new world record marathon time of 2 hrs 3 mins and 38 seconds and/or Paula Radcliffe’s time of 2 hrs, 15mins and 25secs Unfortunately, the Tameside team had to run outside on the 400m track, completing the 105 laps + 195m opening leg in rain, wind and cold. Despite this, the team of 31 completed the marathon distance in 2hours, 9 minutes and 14secs winning the outdoor event. The Year 8 girls representing Fairfield were: Megan McHugh, Amie Comer, Flora McConnell, Isobel Carmody, Georgia Richardson, Devonne Upton, Phoebe Veriogotta, Elizabeth Waters, Olivia McGee, Georgia Lomas, Brittany Nutting-Ashworth, Imogen Ward, Freya Perkin, Megan Banks-Carr, Molly Cordingley and Sian Lloyd. A fantastic effort - well done! Volleyball Year 10 pupils, Hannah Bancroft and Alice Kenyon, have been selected for the England Cadet squad and Year 11 twins, Molly and Sarah Van Essen have been selected for the England Juniors. They flew to Finland and competed in their first International at the start of September. Congratulations! Web: www.fairfieldhigh.tameside.sch.uk Page 6 Olympic football Back to Sport/Get Fit On Tuesday 31st July, 10 pupils had the experience of going to the Olympics. We were chosen because of all the sport we play for school. There were two pupils from each Year Group and we were glad to be part of the chosen ones! The sport we spectated was women’s football (USA v North Korea) and it was hosted at Old Trafford. The USA won the game 1-0 and celebrated right in front of where we were sat. They were the eventual gold medal winners of the whole competition so it was good to see them play. Tameside Sports Trust has started a number of new sessions during the early evening using our sports hall. Several of the activities are aimed at 16years+, including Back to Badminton (Tuesdays 6.00-7.00pm), Back to Netball (Wednesdays 6.00pm - 7.00pm) and Active Zumba Dance. The Zumba sessions are for those who are 12 years and over and take place on Thursdays, 6.00-7.00pm, so it could be a good family activity to get involved in. There is also a badminton session for 9 - 16 year olds on Tuesdays 5.00-6.00pm. The cost: Under 16 - £3 and 16 years+ - £4 per session. However, there is an introductory price of £1.50 for students and £2 for adults for the next few weeks. Why not have a go?! Even from a distance you could feel the excitement as the stadium was filled with expectant football enthusiasts. The atmosphere was electric! Rio Ferdinand was amongst the crowd and we managed to sneak a glimpse of him. You can check availability www.tamesidesportstrust.com. On behalf of all the 10 pupils who attended we would like to say thank you to the teachers who nominated us - it was an experience we will never forget and a big thank you to Miss Adderley for giving up her time and taking us. Outdoor PE lessons and book online at Pupils will be outside for a number of their PE lessons and, as the weather is getting colder, they will need to bring tracksuit bottoms/leggings and a sweatshirt/fleece, as well as their shorts and polo shirts. Proper trainers should also be worn for PE. (See Fairfax uniform pages). Georgina Gledhill and Beth Thorley, 9D GCSE PE visit Debdale Outdoor Centre On Monday 17th September, the Year 11 GCSE P.E. class, and a few from the Year 10 class, went to Debdale Outdoor Centre where we took part in kayaking or sailing as part of our practical assessment. The weather wasn’t very pleasant, however the wind created a more exciting sailing experience. As for the kayakers they had a rougher ride! On the first day we all got a briefing on safety in the water and then we were split into the different groups. In sailing we had to work in pairs to assemble the small Pico boats. We were taught how to rig up the boat, steer and control the sail and tie useful knots to stop the boat from floating away once in the water. Once everything was safe we were let loose and we sailed away. The windier it was the faster the boats went and the more fun it was. There were a few capsizes which was very entertaining for the people left dry in the other boats. We learned valuable skills and most of us gained a sailing qualification. From where we were in the boats the kayaking looked like hard work, especially on the arm muscles. They were constantly moving around Debdale reservoir and hardly ever stopped for rest. They also had to purposely capsize their kayaks, which many did not enjoy. On the last day we did a few fun things and played a few games. The sailors had the choice to try and perform a dry capsize but most of us failed and fell into the water. Overall we all had a really good time and it was a great opportunity to learn new skills. Keirah Spalding, 11F, Joanna Skelly, 11B, Emily Shorrock, 11F, Georgia Pownell, 11F and Emily Summerfield, 11F. Tel: 0161 370 1488 E-mail: admin@fairfieldhigh.tameside.sch.uk Web: www.fairfieldhigh.tameside.sch.uk Page 7 Pastoral care at Fairfield At Fairfield we pride ourselves on our strong pastoral care. We have a number of additional ways that we can support students. I have outlined some of them below, and detailed what they can offer and how they can be accessed. Miss J Mawdsley Assistant Headteacher, Inclusion, Pupils and Families. Key Stage 3 Learning Mentor Key Stage 4 Learning Mentor The Key Stage 3 Learning Mentor at Fairfield is Mrs Knowles. The Key Stage 4 Learning Mentor at Fairfield is Miss Hannible. Mrs Knowles is based in the Student Support Centre, near the Drama room. She has an ‘Open Door Policy’, where pupils are able to pop in before and after school, at break or lunchtime. The Key stage 4 Learning Mentor is based in the office at the end of the Creative and Expressive arts corridor. Pupils may visit Mrs Knowles alone, or with a friend, to discuss issues which are worrying them. Issues may include:- Attendance and punctuality Motivation Home life or emotional issues affecting learning Difficulties with transition from year to year or primary school to secondary Looked after children Young Carers Mrs Knowles works closely with all staff to address the needs of individual pupils. The Key Stage 3 and 4 Learning Mentors can help the girls by offering: A Personalised response Mentoring Study support Organisational support Revision strategies Course work catch up sessions School intervention Anger management sessions Self esteem Motivational interviews Stress management Open door policy Confidentiality where appropriate There is an open door policy which means girls can come and see Miss Hannible before morning registration, at break, at lunchtime and after school. They can discuss any problems they might have be it at home or in school. These issues could be: Attendance and punctuality Motivation Home life Mental Health Issues Physical Health issues Emotional problems Coursework problems The Key Stage 3 and 4 Learning Mentors can refer girls to other agencies available in and outside school for support these include: School Nurse Health Mentor Branching Out CAMHS YOUthink Relateen, school counsellor During exam season we can offer: Revision sessions Revision techniques Relaxation sessions SHINE (Students Happy In a New Environment) SHINE is a pupil mentoring service run by Miss Woodhouse and Miss Kennerley and a number of Year 9 and 10 pupils who have undergone mentoring training. The group is aimed at Year 7 and 8 pupils who are having difficulties settling in to school and making new friends, have low self-esteem, confidence issues or are the victims of bullying. These pupils are referred by form tutors or the pastoral heads, and parents can also request that their daughter attends SHINE if they are worried about any of the above issues. SHINE runs twice a week on Tuesday and Thursday lunch times and pupils are encouraged to bring a packed lunch so that they can all eat and socialise together. Activities are planned for every session that encourage team work, confidence building and develop social skills. Each pupil is also paired up with a personal mentor, and time is set aside for 1-1 mentoring sessions. There is a rewards incentive for attendance, and every term pupils have a celebratory session where prizes and certificates are given out, and pupils have had lunch provided for them. The progress of pupils is closely monitored and many of our SHINE mentees have gone on to become confident, motivated and successful pupils in all aspects of their school life. Tel: 0161 370 1488 E-mail: admin@fairfieldhigh.tameside.sch.uk Web: www.fairfieldhigh.tameside.sch.uk Page 8 Relateen School Nurse This is a counselling service offered by Relate, for young people who are affected by difficult relationships or the past or current breakdown of their parents' relationship. The school nurse will be in school every Monday if you have any health concerns. She runs a drop in session on a Monday lunchtime in the Pastoral Meeting room or you can make an appointment to see her. If things are getting you down at home, you may think it's your fault. You may feel angry and confused and possibly torn between your parents. You may have concerns about the future and how things will turn out. It can be quite difficult to discuss the way you feel with your parents, without worrying about making things worse. If you wish to make an appointment to see the School Nurse please contact Mrs Murphy either directly or through your form tutor. Peer Mentoring When things at home aren't right, it can have an impact on other aspects of your life such as friendships, school or your overall happiness and ability to cope with life. Every year we offer Peer Mentor training to Year 9 pupils to run our SHINE and Peer Mentoring groups. At times like this, it sometimes helps to talk to someone outside the family, who has some understanding of the difficulty you may be having. Pupils are asked to submit detailed application forms and successful candidates are then trained up over a number of after school sessions, to work with other pupils, offering support, advice and a ‘friendly face’. If you would like to see a Relateen counsellor, please speak to Mrs Murphy. There may be a short waiting time before seeing the counsellor. This year, 16 Year 9 pupils were chosen to be trained as Peer Mentors and all successfully completed the training. The successful pupils are: Health Mentors Our health mentors are in school every Monday and Wednesday. If you wish to arrange an appointment with them, please see Mrs Murphy. How can they help you? They are here to support young people and are someone to talk to or if you need any help or advice about how to be healthy. They can offer more specific advice on issues that you may have to face as you get older. These include: Smoking Healthy weight Alcohol and drugs Emotional health and wellbeing Bereavement Kayley Thompson, 9A Abbie Carney, 9A Rachael Bragg, 9B Bethany Wellfair, 9C Rebecca Hart, 9C Natalie Ratchford, 9D Chloe Ledward, 9D Letticia Bayley, 9D Jessica Matlock, 9E Courtney Rudder, 9E Jade Taylor, 9E Emma Conroy, 9E Charlotte Ginder, 9E Saba Ahmed, 9F Jemma Hemmings-Fitton, 9F Ellie Clarkson, 9G Careers and Aimhigher Progression Adviser Mrs Kindley joined the school in September 2011 as Fairfield’s Careers and Aimhigher Progression Adviser. She works closely with other members of the Progression Team and our Connexions Adviser to ensure that all our pupils have the information, advice and guidance that they need to make good decisions about their future. Before coming to Fairfield Mrs Kindley worked as a Graduate Officer for Aimhigher. This was a government initiative designed to raise aspirations and encourage young people to consider university and Higher Education as an option for them. Within this role she designed and delivered 1 to 1 and group activities in schools and colleges around Tameside to give young people more information about university, student life and the benefits of Higher Education. As Mrs Kindley is a university graduate herself, she also acted as a role model for the young people that she worked with. Within Fairfield, Mrs Kindley helps our pupils to consider their next steps, be that Year 9 options choices, college and apprenticeship applications, university and later careers. She runs a ‘Progression Drop In’ at lunchtimes within the library which means that pupils can come to her and ask any questions they have about their futures. For those who need a little more support, Mrs Kindley meets with them one to one to signpost useful information sources and advise them of the best routes to the careers they aspire to. She also creates information leaflets and bulletins to keep our pupils up to date on issues such as student finance and college open days. We believe that good quality information, advice and guidance can make a real impact on the lives and choices of young people and we are glad that Mrs Kindley is a part of this at Fairfield. Tel: 0161 370 1488 E-mail: admin@fairfieldhigh.tameside.sch.uk Web: www.fairfieldhigh.tameside.sch.uk Page 9 Pastoral care cont., Connexions PA Our Connexions PA for 2012-13 is Jayne Harris. She will be working with targeted young people in Years 9, 10 and 11 to ensure that they get the support that they need. The Connexions service is provided by Careers Solutions on behalf of the local authority. Connexions works with schools, colleges and other organisations to provide impartial information, advice and support to young people. Mrs Kindley Year 11 Diagnostic Careers Event In September, the Progression Team arranged for every girl in Year 11 to have the opportunity to discuss their ideas and plans for the future with a Connexions Personal Adviser. These interviews took place over four days from the 25 th-28th September. The aims of the event were to check the progress of the girls’ careers and progression planning and to identify any pupils who needed further support. It is important to us that our girls make good decisions regarding their future and choose options that will enable them to succeed. Due to this, we especially wanted to encourage the girls to think carefully about their choices for next year, and choose the college and apprenticeship courses that are best for them. 119 girls were identified as needing further support with careers and progression and will be scheduled to have an additional careers interview with our Progression Adviser or Connexions PA over the coming weeks. Mrs Kindley Birds of Prey visit Fairfield Numeracy Leaders In July 2012, Year 8s (now Year 9) went into the Sports Hall to enjoy a show about birds of prey for around 2 hours. This year sees the start of a new group known as Numeracy Leaders. Some of our excellent mathematicians in Year 10 are working hard to support younger pupils who are struggling to make the expected progress in maths. When we went in we all sat around the Hall, leaving space for the birds in the middle. A bird handler then came in and he talked to us about the birds and then brought in one of them, it was a very big bird! Every Monday lunchtime, our Numeracy Leaders work in small groups with pupils identified for support by the Maths department. Currently Year 8 pupils are being supported in this way, with other groups being identified later in the year. The bird walked around the hall and the handler told us that we could stroke it if we wanted. The handler then explained to us how the bird hunts. A further 2 birds were brought in, one after the other, and they were both equally as big as the first! Numeracy Leaders has been very successful so far with the Year 10 pupils gaining experience in teaching, mentoring and supporting others as well as working as part of a team. The Year 8 pupils have been developing their mathematical skills and knowledge. Amber Parker-Marshall, 9C The Maths department would like to thank the Numeracy Leaders Anya Cottrill (10C), Taylor Bishop (10C), Georgia Woolfenden (10A), Lucy Gurney (10C), Hannah Bancroft (10G), Amy Foster (10A), Charlotte Hough (10B), Victoria Davies (10B), Georgia Woolfenden (10A), Eleanor Wellfair (10A), Lauren Welsby 10A, Hannah Bancroft 10G for their dedication, hard work and enthusiasm so far. Work Experience Ms Bates In the Summer term, all of Year 10 took part in the annual Work Experience programme. We again worked with the agency ‘Engaging Brighter Placements’ who match the girls’ career interests with appropriate work places. Many girls went out and found their own placements which lead to some interesting and challenging experiences in some cases. Library resources Although we didn’t get to see any fly (this activity could not take place outside due to bad weather), it was a great day and very interesting! The feedback from the placements was, as usual, extremely positive with some girls being asked back for Saturday jobs! The process will start again soon for the current Year 10 and we are hopeful of obtaining even more quality placements and extending links with local companies and industries. Mr Johnson Tel: 0161 370 1488 E-mail: admin@fairfieldhigh.tameside.sch.uk The school Library is available for pupils to use during break, at lunchtimes and after school until approximately 3.30pm. Pupils can take time to read the books, magazines and Kindles (see page 3 for more details), do schoolwork or use one of the many computers. The library is a vital resource for pupils and is an ideal quiet space to finish homework or carry out research. Pupils can request new books, if they are not already stocked, or take advantage of the selection recommended by Mrs Mutter. Web: www.fairfieldhigh.tameside.sch.uk Page 10 Focus on the Music Department Hairspray: The Musical This year, we are putting on Hairspray: The Musical as the school production. Hairspray is a musical about happy go lucky teenager Tracy Turnblad, who teaches 1962 Baltimore a thing or two about racial integration after landing a spot on a local TV dance show. The first round of auditions took place on the 2nd and 5th October and over 80 people auditioned. Call back auditions for main parts took place on the 16th and 17th October. The production now has a full cast in place and music rehearsals will begin the week after half-term where every member of the cast will learn all the songs. Acting and dance rehearsals will begin after Christmas and will take place on Wednesdays and Thursdays after school. The production takes place on Tuesday 16th and Wednesday 17th April 2013. Key Stage 4 Jeff Rich Drum Workshop On Monday 8th October 2012, Jeff Rich visited the school and gave a percussion master class to all Year 8 pupils. Jeff is the former drummer with Status Quo and has played with Def Leopard amongst many other bands. In Key Stage 4, two examination pathways are offered by the Music Department. Edexcel GCSE Music is delivered as a two year full GCSE course. During the course, pupils have to learn about 12 piece of music ranging from classical to popular music and beyond which they are examined on at the end of year 11. Pupils have to compose two differing pieces of music, which they must fully evaluate. They also have to perform two pieces of music, one piece as a soloist or accompanied solo, and one as part of a musical ensemble. BTEC First Award in Performing Arts is also offered by the Department. This is a vocational course which trains pupils how to work in the world of Musical Theatre. Pupils will undertake lessons in acting, singing and dancing and use them to stage a musical production. Key Stage 3 Music is studied by all pupils in Years 7, 8 and 9. Through music lessons pupils will learn how to compose, perform and write about music which they study. Topics studied during Key Stage 3 include Vocal Textures, Indian Music, Blues Music, Song Writing, Glee Performance, Variations, Ground Bass and Advert Music. Rock Band School Rock band school takes place on Tuesday afternoons between 2.45pm – 3.30pm. It is suitable for both advanced players and complete beginners Playing in a great band with your friends, in front of a cheering audience is one of the best experiences life can offer - but how do you get there? Band School on a Tuesday afternoon is offering an exciting new after school club that aims to give you the skills to join a band or take your existing band to the next level. Band School will teach you how to: Organising rehearsals effectively Write songs Improve your individual and band sound Sing vocals and harmonies Build a band website and use social media to promote your band Make best use of available technology Arrange gigs Set your gear up including PAs Record a demo and design artwork Tel: 0161 370 1488 E-mail: admin@fairfieldhigh.tameside.sch.uk Jeff talked about the development of the drum, from its origins as a piece of wood hit with a stick through to the development of military drums and the modern day drum kit. Pupils came up and performed with Jeff, playing on African Drums and more modern ones. Jeff then demonstrated how the modern drum player develops their skills through exercised called rudiments and then gave a solo drum performance, which was excellent. Pupils were invited up to play a range of percussion as large groups, keeping beat with Jeff when he was performing using the drum kit. Pupils enjoyed the session and said “he taught us what different drums were and how to play them” and “It was fun and everyone got involved”. Peripatetic Music lessons A number of different teachers visit the school on a weekly basis to delivery lessons on various instruments. These currently include voice, piano, brass, woodwind and guitar. If your daughter is interested in learning how to play a musical instrument, they should collect an information leaflet from their music teacher. Vocal Intensity (Choir) The school choir is now called Vocal Intensity. We meet regularly on Thursdays in G39 between 2.45pm and 3.45pm. Vocal intensity is attended regularly by around 35 pupils and 2 members of staff. We sing a range of music from African chants and songs through to modern popular music. Vocal Intensity sings at the Young Voices series of concerts at the MEN Arena where they form part of a 6000 strong choir performing with top recording artists such as Randolph Matthews and Connie Talbot, runner up in the 2007 series of Britain’s Got Talent. Currently, Vocal Intensity are preparing for the Christmas series of concerts. The Christmas Showcase takes place on Wednesday 19th December 2012 at 6.30pm in the school Hall and Vocal Intensity always perform as part of our school carol service which takes place on Thursday 20th December 2012 in the Moravian Church. Web: www.fairfieldhigh.tameside.sch.uk Page 11 Pupil Voice Craft Club Congratulations to the Pupil Voice Teams for 2012-2013. The following pupils from each form have been elected by their peers to represent them within the school. The representatives will be expected to : Button bracelets Felt tissue pockets I’ve been going to Craft Club ever since I started at Fairfield. You can go along with your friends or make new ones. You can make lots of things like fun seasonal gifts, unique birthday cards and creative gift bags and you can do all these with the help of Mrs Bradbury and Mrs Mutter who are very nice and happy to help. It is held in the Library on Tuesdays between 2.40pm and 3.45pm and it’s great fun! We look forward to seeing you! Zoe Higham, 9B 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Listen to the views of others Represent their form at meetings Contribute to the school newsletter Support the school at evening events Contribute to the Teaching & Learning at Fairfield The Pupil Voice Team will be taking part in a training session at the end of term which will equip them for their duties throughout the year ahead. Congratulations to them all. The Head Girl Team Name Form Name Form Megan Jackson 7A Tish Bayley 9D Paige Morris 7A Jasmine Smith 9D Darcy Payne 7B Jade Taylor 9E Carla Rigby 7B Jessica Matlock 9E Chloe Roberts 7C 9F Josie Edge 7C Hamno Bano Jemma HemmingsFitton WAGOLL is a method that we use as part of our Teaching and Learning Policy to model exceptional work to all pupils, and also as a way of celebrating the achievements of those pupils who have produced exceptional work. Grace Rainey 7D Francesca Bonworth 9G Sumaiya Ahmed 7D Pooja Bhavsar 9G Cerys Hooley 7E Abby Thorpe 10A Mia Hellawell 7E Katherine Scholes 10A Examples are routinely presented in individual classrooms and we also have a WAGOLL board just outside the Hall doors, where everyone can see outstanding work when they attend assembly. The following pupils have had their work on the WAGOLL board: Morgan Kerr 7F Ellie Smith 10B Abigail Thompson 7F Ashleigh Peatfield 10B Summer Brassington 7G Anya Cottrill 10C Madison Swainbank 7G Danielle Humphrey 10D Morgan Brown 8A Olivia Power 10D Laura Rose 8A Amy George-Davidson 10E Imogen Ward 8B Danielle Mathews 10E Abbey Newman 8B Leah Solomon 10F Krishna Udani 8C Fabbiha Iqbal 10F Holly Carley-Hannan 8C Ying Liang 10G Rhian Appleyard 8D Phoebe Tucker 10G Nayaab Jilani 8D Sarah Edwards 11A Jodie Cawthorne 8E Jodie Griffiths 11A Hafsa Farrukh 8E Zara Altaf 11B Molly Thomas 8F Lucy Meagh 11B Chloe Davies 8F Becky Sidebotham 11C Amelia Bryan 8G Becky Dixon 11C Kyra-Li Lowe 8G Harriet Ward 11D Kayley Thompson 9A Molly Yates 11D Nicole Dyer 9A Krystal Byrne 11E Rachael Bragg 9B Georgia Holden 11E Zoe Sankey 9B Jessica Hardy 11F Holly Richardson 9C Lauren Cooke 11F Tilly O'Reilly 9C Olivia Healey 11G Raine Hollingworth 9C Danielle Scholes 11G What a Good One Looks Like! (WAGOLL) What A Good One Looks Like Year 9 Beth Thorley Spanish Year 9 Courtney Rudder German Year 9 Aimee Lewis German Year 9 Kayley Mylchreest German Year 9 Liz Mercer German Year 9 Lauren Mercer German Year 9 Amy Mottershead German Year 8 Elana Warburton French Year 8 Megan Sutton French Miss Ridehalgh Tel: 0161 370 1488 E-mail: admin@fairfieldhigh.tameside.sch.uk Web: www.fairfieldhigh.tameside.sch.uk 9F Page 12 Extra Curricular activities These are the activities taking place within school at the moment. Join in, make new friends, learn new skills or catch up on homework/coursework. ACTIVITY STAFF VENUE DAY TIME Open to all pupils Technology Block Various – see Mrs Orrett 2.40pm - 3.30pm Mrs Graham/Miss Holland Open to all pupils Canteen Every day 7.30am - 8.00am Sunrise Club Mr Gauld Open to all pupils Drama Studio Every day 7.30am - 8.00am Homework Club Mrs Procter Open to all pupils G28 Every day 12.55pm - 1.20pm Peer Counselling Miss Woodhouse Open to all pupils Drop in Centre (Opp History office) Every day Break and lunch time Volleyball Mr Jump Open to all pupils Sports Hall Monday 12.55pm - 1.20pm Table Tennis/Board Games Mr Gauld Year 7 Drama Studio Monday 12.55pm - 1.20pm Chess Club Mr Gauld/Mrs Graham Open to all pupils G26 Monday 12.55pm - 1.20pm Numeracy Leaders Miss Bates Years 8 & 10 G48 Monday 1.00pm - 1.20pm Drama Club Mrs Basterfield & Year 10 pupils Years 7 & 8 Drama Studio Monday 2.40pm - 3.30pm Volleyball Mr Jump Years 7, 8 & 9 Sports Hall Monday 2.40pm - 4.00/5.00pm Golf taster sessions Mr Gauld Open to all pupils (limited numbers) See Mr Gauld Monday 2.40pm Table Tennis Mr Gauld Year 8 Drama Studio Tuesday 12.55pm - 1.20pm Duke of Edinburgh Cooking Skills Mrs Middleton Years 9 & 10 G54 Tuesday 2.40pm - 4.15pm Rock Ensemble (Band) Mr Howard Open to all years G39 Tuesday 2.45pm - 3.30pm Football Miss Adderley Open to all years Sports Hall Tuesday 2.40pm - 4.00pm Craft Club Mrs Mutter & Mrs Bradbury Open to all pupils Library Tuesday 2.45pm - 3.45pm Art & Design Homework Club Mr Evison Open to all pupils G37 Tuesday 12.40pm - 1.40pm Sports Hall activities including Dodgeball, Badminton, Fitness, Handball Mrs Dolan & Miss Adderley Open to all pupils Sports Hall Tuesday & Wednesday 12.55pm - 1.20pm Crown Green Bowls Mr Gauld Open to all pupils (limited numbers) See Mr Gauld Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, until Half Term, weather permitting 12.55pm - 1.25pm Shine Miss Woodhouse See Miss Woodhouse G26 Tuesday & Thursday 12.40pm - 1.40pm Literacy Leaders Miss Bell Years 7 & 9 G27 Tuesday & Friday 1.00pm – 1.20pm Microsoft Club Miss Nisbet Years 9, 10 & 11 S7 Wednesday 12.55pm - 1.25pm Table Tennis/Board games Mr Gauld Year 9 Drama Studio Wednesday 12.55pm - 1.20pm Young Enterprise Miss Bates Year 10 G46 Wednesday 2.40pm - 3.40pm Netball Mrs Loney Open to all pupils Sports Hall Wednesday 2.40pm - 4.00-pm Wednesday 2.40pm – 4.00pm One Wednesday per month (see Mrs Knowles for details) 2.40pm - 3.30/4.00pm Design Technology Workshop Technology Staff Breakfast Club ATTENDEES Personal Survival Miss Adderley Years 10 & 11 Denton Swimming Pool (see Miss Adderley Fairfield Young Carers Mrs Knowles, Mrs Graham & Miss Hannible All young carers Conference Room See overleaf for continuation of extra-curricular activities. Tel: 0161 370 1488 E-mail: admin@fairfieldhigh.tameside.sch.uk Web: www.fairfieldhigh.tameside.sch.uk Page 13 Extra Curricular activities cont., Fairfield Amnesty International Group Dr Cosgrove & Miss Lealman Year 10 G66 Alternate Wednesdays and Thursdays 1.00pm - 1.20pm Table Tennis/ Board Games Mr Gauld Year 7 Drama Studio Thursday 12.25 pm – 1.20 pm Volleyball Mr Jump Open to all years Sports Hall Thursday 12.55pm - 1.20pm Learning Leaders Miss Bates Years 7, 8 & 10 G27 Thursday 1.00pm - 1.20pm Volleyball Mr Jump Years 10 & 11 Sports Hall Thursday 2.40pm - 4.00/5.00pm Maths GCSE resit revision (Nov exam) Mrs Hill & Miss Fisher or Mr Wilson Y11 by invitation G49, G57 or G58 (see teacher) Thursday 2.40pm - 4.00pm Vocal Intensity (school choir) Mr Blaylock Open to all pupils G39 Thursday 2.45pm - 3.30pm Friday Friendship Circle Mrs Graham & Mrs Searle Open to all Year 7s Drama Studio Friday 12.55pm - 1.20pm Indoor Rowing Mrs Dolan Open to all pupils Sports Hall Friday 12.55pm - 1.20pm Cricket Mr Gauld Open to all pupils Sports Hall Friday 12.55pm - 1.25pm Badminton Miss Adderley/Mrs Dolan Open to all pupils Sports Hall Friday 2.40pm - 4.00pm Manga Club Miss Woodhouse Open to all pupils G30 Friday 2.40pm - 3.30pm Table Tennis Mr Gauld Open to all pupils Drama Studio Friday 2.45pm - 3.45pm Science Bistro Science Department Lower school - See Dr Cahill Science Corridor See the school calendar for dates 6.00pm - 7.30pm Art and Design success This year’s cohort of pupils achieved an incredibly high standard variety and quality of work. AQA Examination Board rewarded them with exceptional GCSE grades: 100% achieved A*-C, 48.48% of those achieved either A* or A. Their determination, creativity, tenacity and dedication to task was absolutely commendable. Well done everyone, pupils and staff. Several pieces of the artwork by the 2011-12 GCSE pupils are shown below. Mr Evison Head of Art and Design ‘Here and Now’ (External Test Examination) Megan Sargent ‘Animals’ (External Test Examination) Grace Knight ‘Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds’ (Song Illustration) Hannah Starkie ‘To the Lighthouse Virginia Woolf’ (Illustration) Anna Hart ‘Iconic Character’ (Pop Art Exercise) Lauren Wilde Key Stage 3 Spelling Bees The end of last year saw 3 fiercely contested competitions taking place in G48, the very first annual Fairfield Spelling Bees! The talent on show was amazing, with outstanding girls representing each form of the 3 Year groups, they demonstrated great spelling skills and lightning fast reactions but, as is always the case, there could only be one winner. The 2012 Champions are indicated on the table to the right. Year Form Representatives 7 G Anisha Parekh and Nicole Yeung 8 D Chloe Ledward and Ashley McLaughlin-Watt 9 F Leah Solomon and Fabbiha Iqbal Year 8 take the award for highest points scored in all 3 competitions with an incredible 20 points, 7 above the nearest competition. Well done! All girls received a certificate and there will be a trophy to the winning forms. Many thanks to all the girls who took part, now let’s get training for next year! Miss Bell Tel: 0161 370 1488 E-mail: admin@fairfieldhigh.tameside.sch.uk Web: www.fairfieldhigh.tameside.sch.uk Page 14 Important information regarding attendance Approved holiday list 2012-2013 Important information for Parents/Carers regarding school attendance Autumn Term 2012 Friday 26th October Please find below important information from the Local Authority that we are required to share with all parents concerning absence from Fairfield High School for Girls. It is for information only and outlines the actions that could be taken against parents/carers regarding attendance. Monday 29th October to Friday 2nd November - Half Term Holiday Penalty Notices for Non-School Attendance Section 444(A) of the Education Act 1996 empowers the Local Authority to issue Penalty Notices in cases of unauthorised absence from school. This means that when a pupil has unauthorised absence of 10 sessions (5 days) or more in any 12 week period (where no acceptable reason has been given for the absence) or if their child persistently arrives late for school after the close of registration, their parents or carers may receive a Penalty Notice fine of £60, which must be paid within 28 days. If payment is made after 28 days but within 42 days, the penalty is increased to £120. Where a fine remains unpaid after 42 days, the matter will be referred to the Borough Solicitor, who will consider instigating criminal proceedings. In law, an offence occurs if a parent or carer fails to secure a child’s regular attendance at school. Tameside Education Welfare Service, in conjunction with schools and Greater Manchester Police, will use these powers as an early deterrent to prevent patterns of unauthorised absence developing. Parents may also receive a Penalty Notice without a warning letter for the offence of failing to secure regular school attendance for the following reasons: If their child is stopped on a truancy sweep more than once If they go on holiday in term time without the school’s permission or are late returning from an extended holiday If they have not co-operated with the Education Welfare Service following a referral from school after they have taken steps to address the absences with the parent/carer and pupil If their child fails to return to school following a fixed term exclusion The Education and Inspections Act 2006 also makes it an offence if a parent fails to ensure that their child is not in a public place during the first 5 days of a fixed term or permanent exclusion. Penalty Notices may be issued in relation to this matter. The Local Authority and schools are committed to providing the best possible future for your child. If you have concerns about your child’s attendance at school or if you are experiencing any difficulties, contact school and ask for help. Support is also available from the Education Welfare Service on telephone number 0161 342 2297. Break up for Half Term Monday 5th November Thursday 20th December Friday 21st December School resumes Term Ends Staff Training Day (2) Spring Term 2013 Monday 7th January Friday 15th February Term Begins Break up for Half Term Monday 18th February to Friday 22nd February - Half Term Holiday Monday 25th February Thursday 28th March School resumes Term Ends Summer Term 2013 Monday 15th April Monday 6th May Friday 24th May Term Begins May Day - Bank Holiday Break up for Half Term Monday 27th May to Friday 31st May - Half Term Holiday Monday 3rd June Monday 8th July Friday 19th July School resumes Staff Training Day (3) Term Ends Autumn Term 2013 Autumn Term 2013 will commence on Monday, 2nd September 2013 for staff and Tuesday, 3rd September 2013 for pupils. Lost Property Six weeks into the new academic year and we already have l0 coats, 10 hoodies and 12 umbrellas. There are also numerous PE kits, pencil cases, glasses, keys and other miscellaneous items. Please be aware that where possible, lost property not claimed will be sent to a local charity at the end of each half term as we do not have the facilities to store unclaimed items indefinitely. All unclaimed lost property is displayed in the junior entrance for the last two weeks of term. If your daughter has lost any items since the start of the new academic year can you please encourage her to have a look at the items displayed or to speak to Mrs Cheetham regarding smaller items. Please, please put names in everything! returned promptly. They can then be Fund raising for British Heart Foundation A cake sale, organised by Georgia Richardson and her form 8D, has raised £50 for the British Heart Foundation. The event was successfully hosted by Eleanor Lightfoot, Amy Summerfield, Tuesday Skade, Riya Joshi, Abbi Mason, Carris Mallon and Hannah Orchard, overseen by Mrs Knowles and Mrs Basterfield. Rhian Appleyard baked some delicious cakes and pupils were treated to lots of yummy delights! A huge "Thank You" to everyone who supported by baking, helping and buying! TRADITION Tel: 0161 370 1488 VISION E-mail: admin@fairfieldhigh.tameside.sch.uk LEARNING Web: www.fairfieldhigh.tameside.sch.uk Page 15