and Military
Welcome to the Dover Federation for the Arts. Our vision for The Federation centres upon: The importance of the respect agenda. The development of a sense of values. The pursuit of excellence in all aspects of College life. The uniqueness and supreme importance of each individual. The celebration of a caring, compassionate and well ordered college community. The focus on the visual and performing arts. The importance of visual literacy as a theme of raising standards and achievement. The development of ceremonial and public service in partnership with the
We want to create as large a framework in the sky as possible, within which the Astor Family of students, teachers, support staff, parents, governors, friends and the wider community can fly. This will encourage and stimulate an exciting, creating and caring environment in which individuals can maximise their personal and professional development. The Federation comprises of Astor College, a Specialist College for the Arts (one of the Nursery and Infant School, White Cliffs Primary College for the Arts and KETV Film and Sound Productions. Each of the schools/colleges has its own Principal. These are: Mr Pallant (Astor), Mr Meades (Barton and Shatterlocks) and Mrs Knight Fotheringham (White Cliffs).
the College is to come and see us in order to experience what the College has to offer. It is only by talking to students and staff that one can get a true feel of Astor and the special relationship between students and staff. Very best wishes.
Mr C Russell BA Med Cert Ed FRBA FRSA FCMI Chief Executive Officer
Mr E Pallant Principal
Astor will promote an arts led educational culture that will raise standards across the whole of its curriculum, age and ability range, enabling all students to reach their full potential. This will result in a significant improvement in student performance in examinations in all phases. We will work energetically with our family of schools and in the wider community of Dover to create a learning society within a framework of enhanced links with business and commerce. At post sixteen we will provide young people with the skills and confidence needed to progress into higher education, further training and employment. We will raise the esteem of the town and the families within it through the celebration of our status as an Arts College and our links with the military. This will be achieved by: The dissemination and exchange of good practice across all subject areas through increased awareness of visual literacy as a key aid to learning. The increased breadth of teaching methodology and expertise through appropriate INSET. We will raise standards of achievement for students through the arts and the military specialisms. This provides improved and extended teaching and learning, together with course diversification which will include vocational accreditation. We will develop ICT as an essential keystone in all areas of the curriculum. The enrichment of the arts-technological experience for young people through extra-curricular activities in the arts, leading to the fast tracking of some students through the examination programme. A broad and ambitious sequence of events and projects focussing upon the expressive and performing arts involving link schools, other communities and organisations abroad. Improve accommodation and resourcing of the specialist arts areas to enable community access. The public will be strongly encouraged to share the enhanced facilities.
interests. Working with our Federation schools: Barton Junior School, Shatterlocks Infant and Nursery School and White Cliffs Primary College for the Arts, to raise standards in the quality of teaching and learning, together with a strengthened college ethos with a particular emphasis on the use of arts based curricular and extra-curricular work.
and events, promoting a climate of opportunity and lifelong learning.
Astor School was established in 1948, since when it has grown considerably, not merely in size, but also in public esteem. In 2002 it was designated a specialist school and became Astor College for the Arts. It is now known as Astor College but has kept its Art Specialism and is also focussing on military and public service underpinned by the respect agenda. Parents know that much is expected of their sons and daughters and the highest goals are set, always within the context of care for the students and concern for what is appropriate for the individual. The family is at the heart of
Over the years, the strengths and skills of many experienced staff have been enriched by the enthusiasm and gifts of young teachers. A combination of hard won traditional achievements and modern educational innovation produces caring atmosphere is sought after by staff and students alike. The staff are extremely committed to providing richness of experience through a wide variety of extra curricular activities out of College hours, including weekends and holidays.
A college must provide an environment where learning and teaching can take place in a disciplined yet creative way. Astor College continues to be proud of its examination record. Our results are excellent by any standard. Many students of Astor College go on to Universities, Colleges of Art and Architecture, Agricultural Colleges, Colleges of Higher Education and careers in the armed forces and public service. Ex-students from all kinds of training and walks of life often return to maintain contact. Courtesy and concern for others underpin life at Astor. Students are expected to respond to this and follow the codes of behaviour necessary to maintain it. Discipline is firm but fair, enabling all to share in the security of a well-ordered college community. We passionately believe that every student has the right to learn and every teacher has the right to teach without interference to that process. Violence or intimidation of a physical or verbal nature is not tolerated and severe action is taken against anyone who behaves in this way. We rely upon parents to support the standards we are trying to achieve. The partnership between parents, students and staff is the cornerstone of our philosophy. On very rare occasions mistakes will be made. Our aim is to identify those errors and with great urgency rectify them.
Students coming from relatively small and close knit Primary Schools are bound to experience some apprehension when entering a larger Secondary School. Astor College is part of the Dover Federation for the Arts and all staff regularly work in partnership with primary staff, sharing expertise. This results in a smooth transition from Primary to Secondary Education. We have a system of year groups each with their own Director of Year and Pastoral Team. We are aware that impressions formed early on in college life can affect progress and enjoyment in the future. Therefore, we have developed a programme of induction to ease the transition from primary to the secondary phase.
Close links are set up with partner Primary Schools to ensure smooth progression from Year 6 into Year 7. All parents and students are given a personal interview with the Form Tutor in order to talk about the College and discuss any matters that may be of concern. The Director of KS3 and the Director of Year will visit Primary Schools to see and speak to all students in their own environment and to talk with Primary School teachers. There will be an induction day during the Summer Term when students coming to Astor in September will be invited to experience sample lessons. This will be followed by an evening to which all new intake parents will be
For some students there is a special induction programme. This is aimed at those students who may have difficulties settling into a secondary school and consists of three afternoons where they will visit the College, meet staff and get to know a group of children.
Yes! If your child is willing to work and enjoy all aspects of life at Astor, then we shall do all that we can to see that no door is closed. The curriculum is designed to provide a rounded education, ensuring the aesthetic, spiritual, practical, academic, social and physical development of our students. We aim to prepare students to leave College with the necessary skills and understanding essential to lead a full and satisfying adult life. A large College, such as Astor, has all the resources to provide for the whole range of students and can offer a wide variety of courses leading to GCSE, AS/A2 level and vocational courses.
Homework is seen as an essential and integral part of the planned curriculum. Teachers set a variety of tasks according to their own methods and requirements aimed at increasing competency and confidence. This may involve research, further reading or writing.
The college community is divided up into six year groups. There are Directors of Year and Form Tutors within each grouping. Pastoral Managers work with staff, students and parents.
Directors of Year Year 7
Year 8
Year 9
Year 10
Year 11
Mr D Clue
Mr S Jones
Mr B Harrison
Mr M Gibson
Mr S Moore
Director of Year
Director of Year
Director of Year
Director of Year
Director of Year
Mrs S Chapman
Mr A Payne
Ms B Shahroodi
Mr S Davies
Miss A Withrington
Deputy Director of Year
Deputy Director of Year
Deputy Director of Year
Deputy Director of Year
Deputy Director of Year
Mrs S Castle
Miss E Biddle
Mr P Wright
Mr R Esdale
Mr M Sadler
Pastoral Manager
Pastoral Manager
Pastoral Manager
Pastoral Manager
Pastoral Manager
Sixth Form Mrs J Walton Director of Year
Mrs L Jones Miss P Butterfield Deputy Directors of Year
Study Managers In order to provide continuity for student learning, Study Managers are an integral part of the College team. These members of staff supervise students during short term absences and work closely with Department Directors and Directors of Year to provide continuity and support on a day to day basis.
Session
Times
Registration Period 1 Period 2 Period 3 Tutor Period Break Period 4 Period 5 Lunch Period 6 Period 7
0850-0855 0855-0935 0935-1015 1015-1055 1055-1110 1110-1130 1130-1215 1215-1300 1300-1355 1355-1440 1440-1525
Lunches are served on a cafeteria basis. Hot meals and snack lunches are available. Students may bring a packed lunch which must be eaten on the premises. It is strongly advised that students do not leave the premises at lunchtime. If they do they must have written permission from parents and will be issued with an exit pass.
Terms Term 1 Start - Tuesday 4 September 2012 Finish - Friday 26 October 2012
Term 2 Start - Monday 5 November 2012 Finish - Friday 21 December 2012
Term 3 Start - Monday 7 January 2013 Finish - Friday 15 February 2013
Term 4 Start - Monday 25 February 2013 Finish - Thursday 28 March 2013
Term 5 Start - Monday 15 April 2013 Finish - Friday 24 May 2013
Term 6 Start - Monday 3 June 2013 Finish - Wednesday 24 July 2013
EQUIPMENT A college bag, calculator, pen, pencil, ruler, colouring pencils, jotter, pencil sharpener, rubber, protractor, pair of compasses and set square.
Astor College students should wear their uniform with pride because: It provides our students with a sense of identity and pride in their College. It enhances the appearance of students and therefore the reputation of the College. It helps to instil in students a sense of purpose and respect.
The Astor College Uniform consists of: Black College blazer with embroidered badge Black v-necked sweater (optional) White shirt with top button done up School tie Black trousers and black socks Black skirt (no culottes) and white/black socks or black/natural tights Black shoes (no boots) Suitable waterproof overcoat (not denim, leather or a hoodie) The Sixth Form students wear either a plain black v-necked sweater, a plain black v-necked cardigan or a plain black blazer/jacket (not leather, denim or a hooded sweat top).
Sportswear Girls
Boys White short sleeved polo shirt with collar (plain) White training shoes White/Black ankle/trainer socks Plain navy shorts Black fleece (plain) Knee length plain black football socks Football boots (rubber studs but NOT astro boots) Shin pads Towel and soap
White, short sleeved polo shirt with collar (plain) White training shoes White/black ankle/trainer socks Plain black shorts (two pairs) Reversible Astor rugby shirt Knee length plain black football socks Football boots (rubber studs but NOT astro boots) Shin pads Towel and soap Gum shield
NB The polo shirt is to be worn twice weekly, so it would be helpful to have two. Optional kit: In addition to the standard kit, plain black or navy tracksuit bottoms may be worn. Boys may also purchase and wear a plain black fleece or sweatshirt.
Dancewear
Art and Design
An old shirt, apron or overall as protective clothing. T-Shirt (any colour) Shorts (any colour) Tracksuits Sweatshirt (no hoods) Slipper socks/jazz shoes/non-marking indoor trainers
The Reading Gallery is a newly developed space at the heart of the College. The philosophy: , embraces the importance of reading for pleasure with in an inspiring environment of a gallery space. Students from Year 7 to sixth form are able to use this space to develop their enjoyment of reading, through a range of contemporary and classic literature, across all levels and genre. Reading for pleasure, will be supported by reading initiatives throughout the academic year, such as Booked Up, World Book Day and other campaigns. In addition students have the opportunity to use a scholastic book club, which provide opportunities for being able to purchase books whilst supporting new stock into the Reading Gallery. The Reading Gallery will also house artwork by students and staff, creating a strong visual literacy for students. The Reading Gallery is an evolving space which will provide continual development of literacy opportunities for students at Astor and the wider community.
We take a pride in our Arts status. Consequently, all students will have Fine Art, Textiles, Graphics and Ceramics lessons during their first three years with us. During Year 9 students have to select at least one Arts subject as a part of their option choices. At GCSE level we provide courses in Fine Art, Textiles, Ceramics, Graphics and Photography. These subjects are also available in the Sixth Form at A Level. There is also a regular life drawing class for students
Astor organises the annual National Students Art Exhibition under the patronage of the Royal Society of British Artists at the Mall Galleries in London. This is the ninth year of providing the only national showcase for the art work of students in English Secondary schools. Astor also exhibits at the John Downton Awards at County Hall, Maidstone, which is the Kent showcase for school visual arts. In this arena we have won the Schools prize a number of times as well as individual awards. Astor has been awarded Artsmark Gold since its inception. This award, created by the Arts Council of Great Britain, is a rigorous assessment of the level of Arts Provision in an educational establishment. Our investment in the Arts has meant that what our children achieve here has been recognised year after year as outstanding. Each year we take our work out into the community and put on an exhibition in the Stone Hall of Dover Town Hall. Since its inception in 1993 we have displayed the work of our A level students with all our creative disciplines on show. Students, parents, governors and staff are invited and the exhibition continues into our Speech Day the following evening. In addition to the art and design related programmes we endeavour to enrich all levels and aspects of the curriculum by the use of visual literacy. All teachers are encouraged to be creative through displays in their learning environments and throughout the shared areas of the College. We believe that if young people engage with and enjoy what they see in all aspects of their lives, levels of achievement can be significantly raised. Personalised programmes for students are developed through negotiation with art and design staff.
Music, Drama and Dance are extremely strong elements in the College life both in terms of the curriculum and
We have an outstanding reputation for our international work in the Performing Arts and we put on major musical productions in the National Theatre, Croatia, Siberia, France, Belgium and the USA as well as in our own White Cliffs Theatre. The reputation for excellence of our productions is second to none and we are proud of a rich tradition in theatre that goes back to the 1950s. We frequently run trips to productions and have professional actors, musicians and directors running workshops in College. With the White Cliffs Theatre, Drama, Music and Dance studios as amazing resources the students are fortunate to be able to operate with professional facilities. Astor is a member company of The National Theatre and we also work in partnership with the Royal Shakespeare Company. Drama thrives at Astor. At Key stage 3 all students are taught Drama. At GCSE there is a very healthy uptake of students for this popular course. At post 16 level students can study all aspects of Theatre from acting to set design. We have a large number of students who take A level Theatre and Drama studies. We also have a large number of students who take Advanced level courses in the Performing Arts. In the Music Department all students have weekly lessons at Key Stage 3 where they have the opportunity to explore Samba, African drumming, keyboard and vocal skills, and the history of different styles of music among a variety of other topics. All students learn to perform, compose, analyse and understand these exciting areas of music and many students go on to further explore and develop their practical skills at GCSE in Key stage 4 and A level in the Sixth Form. There is a College choir and a Chamber Choir performing regularly in College concerts and outside events in the community and an emphasis on growing other musical ensembles including African drummers, rock groups and music technology. Dance is taught to all students at Key stage 3 and is a very popular subject. Every year the uptake for students wishing to do Dance GCSE increases. We run various clubs for students of all ages and all abilities encompassing many different styles of dance. We also organise visits to see professional Dance companies both in London and when they visit local venues. Workshops run by professional dancers are a regular part of the examination programmes. All of these activities are showcased every year in our annual Summer D ance Shows which are noted for their high standards and their joy in performance. We have a dance group called
Military School, a high achieving academy with a military tradition, means that part of our intake will have a military background to their education. The intake will cater for three types of students: A military cadre closely associated with the Duke of enjoying that association and ethos, including a very strong public service theme to the curriculum, leading to qualifications in public have ceremonial uniforms (provided free) and be part of the CCF. A normal intake of students because Astor is their school of choice and is local. Students will continue to come because of the arts specialism's of the visual arts, performing arts, television broadcasting sound and media.
YEAR 7
Military Cadre
General Students
Students Specialising in the Arts
The military cadre will initially start in Year 7, but there will be facilities for students in Years 8, 9, 10, 11 and the sixth form to either join from outside or move across internally. In addition there is the opportunity for any student, regardless of ability, to join the military cadre. However, the more able students will be taught in accelerated top sets. Underpinning all this is public service.
All students have the opportunity to undertake a range of activities relating to Personal and Social Development through clubs, activities and organised schemes.
Sport The following activities are available at Astor: Football, Cricket, Hockey, Tennis, Dance, Netball, Volleyball, Rounders, Badminton, Athletics, Gymnastics, Rugby, Basketball, Cross Country, Weight Training and Aerobics. The PE Department offers a broad range of activities. Students are encouraged to develop not only their individual skills, but also to improve their coaching and refereeing ability, and to learn the reasons why exercise is important and how this affects the body. Progress is carefully monitored to ensure that each student reaches his/her potential. Other important features of the work in lessons include good sportsmanship, the building of team work skills and the
The Department offers a Fixture List that involves inter-form, local and county opposition. In recent years there has opportunity to further their experience outside the realms of college sport.
and college sport.
Military Cadre Astor is developing a military cadre of students who will be focussing on ceremonial, These students will also be a part of the Combined Cadet Force.
Combined Cadet Force The CCF is a voluntary youth organisation that promotes responsibility, self reliance, resourcefulness, endurance and self discipline in exciting and challenging ways. Students can join from Year 8 and take part in a large number of activities including flying, gliding, adventure training, camps and visits throughout the UK and abroad. Training is progressive and Cadets can learn to become leaders and instructors. The CCF offers formal qualifications such as the Duke of Edinburgh Award(s) at Bronze, Silver and Gold and Young Life Saver First Aid. Cadets also have the opportunity to gain qualifications in flying and adventure sports, such as the British Canoe Union Star qualifications. Activities are sponsored by the services and all courses and camps are extremely good value for money.
Student and College Voice The students voice are responsible for each year group whilst the College voice students meet regularly to discuss many aspects of College life. Students are encouraged to communicate their views through this forum. This is seen as an important aspect of the programme which forms part of a citizenship rich College curriculum. In the last College year the Student Voice has campaigned successfully for a rentable DVD collection in the Elnor Reading Zone, had ten more bins put around the College site; met regularly with The Knole Academy Council in Sevenoaks to discuss issues concerning the schools; joined and attended the Dover Cluster Schools council meetings and attended regional
Community Arts The Schools and Community partnership initiative has stimulated fresh and invigorating arts activities in the Dover area. These are currently enjoyed by local people of all ages, from Parent and Preschool Children arts activities to intergenerational festival projects such as Zest Fest, and large scale community arts projects which bring together the Triangles community centre. Our community activities have included the Buckland Hospital and Dover Handicapped Group creating colourful ceramic, glass, and papier machĂŠ artefacts. The Migrant Helpline has assisted in setting up Family Arts workshops to create a series of multicultural banners for Refugee Day. Astor College also promotes arts workshops for adult learners to participate in community arts projects. This has generated interest in facilitating the creative process through collective working and gaining experience in use of a diverse range of media. It is a popular activity which gives rise to both personal development and creation of distinctive artefacts for schools, community centres and festivals. The results have been amazing, from carnival style artefacts to tactile jig-saws and textiles. Local schools have benefitted by working with Astor arts specialists and have jointly instigated special projects that enliven the school environment. Developments have included the installations of art features at Aylesham Infants and Primary School and a jungle mural at River Primary School.
vibrant and exciting art department and through contact with arts professionals. The multiillustrated by Astor students is now in print and is currently available on loan through Kent Libraries. Local schools and community activities have been facilitated by Astor College through our Specialist School and Academies Trust status, but a vital part of our success is through much valued partnership support from a number of sources including Creative Partnerships Kent, Dover District Council, The Delta Project (New Opportunities Scheme), Kent County Council, HST Connect Project, National Heritage Lottery, NHS Trust, The Royal Society of British Artists, Sure Start, St Radigunds Community Centre Company Ltd, the Migrant Helpline and the Crabble Mill Trust. Our partnership activities have fostered a greater interest in the arts and engender a real sense of community pride. Our specialist art staff are involved in link work with our family of schools. This takes the form of Astor Art staff delivering regular outreach work as well as students from other schools coming into Astor for practical workshops. We are currently exhibiting the Wolverton Warrior for the Alkham Archaeological Society. If you require details on current activities or ongoing projects then please telephone Astor College.
Astor College has built up extremely strong international links over the past twenty years. Many staff have an international experience and international aspects feature in many Departmental Curricula. Major projects in France include Art Exhibitions, joint musical productions, dance performances, sports fixtures and workshops, French Literature classes, business and work experience links, and historical visits. Italian connections centre around Florence and there is a ceramics and textiles link being established. Two students gave a presentation in Rome at the European Seminar on Health Education and HIV/Aids in schools. The Croatian link is extensive, with six major art exhibitions and five photographic exhibitions. There is a close partnership with the National Theatre of Croatia in Split. Our link school is 1 Gimnazija. Oliver, My Fair Lady, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (twice), South Pacific, Fiddler on the Roof and Godspell were all outstanding, sell-out successes. Croatian Opera singers visited Dover and two students took part in a UNESCO week in Dubrovnik focusing on heritage and the environment. There have also been student exchanges. Art students visit Venice, Amsterdam, Brussels, Florence, Paris, Barcelona and Cologne to pursue their studies. This work is very exciting because it greatly enhances their course and is a useful background for interview discussions.
There is a remarkable link with Carlinville, Illinois. We offer a teacher/student in-service training programme. Staff and students work in the American school and their counterparts do the same at Astor. More staff and students will be involved this year. There is so much we can learn from each other with the advantage of not having a language barrier. Astor College is an important part of the Kent link with Virginia and the Chief Executive was present in the Understanding. We performed the Rock Opera, Jesus Christ Superstar in New Kent County, Virginia, in October 2005 with American students visiting Dover in the December to perform on the White Cliffs Theatre stage. In 2008, as part of the celebrations of the 400th Anniversary of Jamestown and the forming of the United States, Astor led a major performance of West Wide Story also performed in The Kimball Theatre, Williamsburg. Other performances have included Sweeney Todd and we are performing Cabaret in October. We have a fantastic partnership with School No96 named after Victor Astafiev in Zheleznogorsk, Siberia, Russia. Joint musical productions have taken place in the Town Theatre with music provided by the Red Army Band. Russian students, educators, politicians and businessmen have visited and worked with us in Dover. We have also taken art exhibitions to Russia. The College has hosted Japanese visitors and a dance group from Astor has worked and performed in Spain. We have an excellent theatrical link with the St Josefinstituut, Belgium. Astor students have twice visited Los Angeles to take part in a NASA project, M.Y.S.P.A.C.E. (Multinational Youth Studying Practical Applications for Climatic Events). During an intense three days, they built friendships with students from around the world whilst gaining global perspectives.
sight into other cultures. Astor has been awarded the International School Award.
Work related learning, in a variety of forms, is an entitlement for all students. By working with local providers and other outside agencies, Astor College will provide all students with the opportunity to experience the world of work. This will take the form of work experience or work shadowing, where available and appropriate, work related and enterprise activity days and other work related and business experiences. All Intermediate students in Year 12 undertake some form of work experience as part of their course. We have close links with industry and the business world of Dover and the surrounding area and we are fortunate in having an excellent relationship with parents who often help with work placements.
career staff and the Connexions Careers Advisers. The main aim of the work of the Careers Department is to provide students with the information and skills to enable them to make informed choices and decisions for the future and to successfully carry out their career plans. This is provided by: 1. 2. 3. 4.
A structured Careers Education Programme in Years 7-14 as part of a comprehensive PSHE programme. Group guidance sessions and interviews in Years 9-14 with the Connexions Careers Adviser. A weekly lunchtime drop-in clinic available to all students. Access to current careers information resources in the careers room (Room 66). This includes computer databases of occupational information and diagnostic careers guidance programmes.
Astor College has developed close links with local employers and businesses, colleges and universities. Students and parents are kept informed of the opportunities available in employment, training, further and higher education.
Astor possesses the Investor in Careers Award.
The curriculum at Astor College is planned to enable all students to aspire to excellence regardless of ability. Every student will be helped to develop all aspects of their personality so that they can play a full part as a caring and productive person in an ever changing society. All students are provided with the same opportunities in all subject areas and in all areas of experience. Due account is taken of individual differences in ability so that each student can make the most of the opportunities available. There are three progressive stages in the curriculum of each student. Key stage 3 of the National Curriculum Years 7-9 (ages 11-14) Key stage 4 of the National Curriculum Years 10-11 (ages 14-16) The Sixth Form Years 12, 13, and 14 (ages 16-19)
The 11-16 and 16the 5-11 primary phase. The Astor curriculum aims to equip students to leave school with: (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) (g)
A clear understanding of the world around them, of themselves and their position in the world. An awareness through personal experience of the richness of our language and the intrinsic importance of Science, Technology, the Arts and the Humanities. A perception of the world from a moral and ethical viewpoint based on Christianity, but with an awareness of other major religions. A maximum development of the ability and attitudes needed to live effective and happy lives in a technological society. An improvement in their ability to communicate effectively in a variety of modes, including a wide use of information technology. An understanding and experience of international links, the building of friendships between people and different cultures.
As part of the negotiation process, great care is taken to ensure that all students achieve breadth, balance and coherence in their programme of studies. This ensures the continuity of the development of important skills related to numeracy, communication, information technology and other aspects of personal development. A series of day conferences supplements and enriches this to ensure coverage of important themes and issues.
The planned curriculum is based on the National Curriculum of Core and Foundation Subjects: English Mathematics Science Humanities Information and Communication Technology Modern Foreign Languages Technology Expressive and Performing Arts Physical Education Personal, Social, Careers and Health Education (including Citizenship) Religious Education Work Related Learning and Enterprise All students follow courses provided by these areas throughout their 11-16 education. In Years 10 and 11, English, Mathematics, Science, ICT, Physical Education, Religious Education, PSHE, Work Related Learning and Enterprise are compulsory. Careers Education and Guidance and Citizenship are delivered as part of the PSHE programme. In addition, all students choose 3 subjects from a range of subjects on offer. Aspects of information and Communication Technology and Personal, Social, Careers and Health Education are delivered as part of all subjects in addition to their delivery as a discrete subject. All appropriate National Curriculum themes are given full coverage in the taught curriculum and through a programme of curriculum enrichment which is achieved through community involvement, use of conference days and activity weeks, concentrating on a single or group of related themes.
potential is measured through prior attainment and standardised tests. Students following the Military Cadre will have to take a public service course through our Combined Cadet Force.
How the Curriculum is delivered to students of different age groups in the College Key stage 3 Curriculum:
Key stage 4 Curriculum Subject
Subject
English Mathematics Science French Technology Geography History Art PE/Games Dance/Drama ICT Music PSHE RE Core Skills
Year 7 Periods
Year 8 Periods
Year 9 Periods
5 5 4 2 3 2 2 2 3 1 1 1 1 1 2
5 5 4 3 3 2 2 3 3 1 1 1 1 1
5 5 4 3 3 2 2 3 3 1 1 1 1 1
English Mathematics Science ICT PE RE/PSHE Option A Option B Option C
6 6 5 3 2 1 4 4 4
Selection of Courses for Years 10 and 11 In the Spring Term of Year a choice of which courses to follow in Years 10 and 11 is made by students in consultation with their parents and teachers. Detailed advice is available at this stage from Form Tutors, the Director of Key Stage 4 and the Careers staff. During Year 9, students commence their GCSE courses in the core subjects of Maths, English and Science. This enables our students to achieve the best possible attainment in these essential subjects. Parents are invited to a meeting at the beginning of the Spring Term and will also have the opportunity to have an individual interview with a senior member of staff during which more help and information can be given. Key stage 4 Options Students generally choose 3 from the following: Art 2D Art 3D Ceramics Art Graphics Business Catering Construction Dance Drama
French Geography Hairdressing History Media Music Photography Public Services
Religious Education Resistant Materials Sociology Sport Textiles
The Sixth Form Years 12, 13 and 14 Astor College prides itself on the strength and quality of its Sixth Form which consists of about 160 students. There is a considerable variety of opportunity and Sixth Form students formulate their own programmes of study in negotiation with their tutors and in the light of guidance from the Careers Staff. The Sixth Form has its own Council which meets regularly to discuss College matters and arrange a social programme. It also serves as a method of liaison between the Sixth Form and the teaching staff through the Head Prefects. The day to day organisation of the College and its programme of special events involve the Sixth Form fully, thus there is plenty of opportunity to develop personal and social skills alongside and within the academic framework. Students are encouraged to develop a good balance of courses that will result in appropriate qualifications. These individual programmes can include A/AS level, BTEC Level 3 or Level 2 (Intermediate courses). There is the facility to retake English, Mathematics and Science at GCSE. Sixth Formers occupy their own study/social rooms. There is a study block with computer provision. Courses of study in the Sixth Form may last one, two or three years.
Many Higher Education Institutions and Employers recognise the extra-curricular achievements of students alongside their more formal academic qualifications and see them as evidence
Courses of Study Available Each course of studies followed by Sixth Form students is unique to them and based on their individual needs. The course package is determined after a very careful period of consultation during the induction progress which starts in November of Year 11. Astor prides itself on the range of A Levels it can offer. Many students who study Intermediate courses in Year 12 stay on in order to complete Advanced courses over a further two years. The advanced level courses on offer from September 2012 are: Art Graphic Design Biology History Business ICT Ceramics Law Drama and Theatre Studies Media Studies English Literature Music General Studies Performing Arts (Dance) Geography Photography Graphic Animation Psychology
Public Services Pure Mathematics and Mechanics Science Sociology Sport Textiles Travel and Tourism
All Advanced students in Year 12 will study AS General Studies. The Intermediate courses available this year are: Hospitality BTEC Hairdressing BTEC These are full time 1 year courses which can lead onto Advanced Level courses. They are designed to bring students available.
Destination
%
Year 11
Year 12
Year 13
Continued Education
88.7
92.0
59.6
Entered training (non-employed status)
1.1
0
2.1
Entered employment with training inc. Modern apprenticeships
2.7
3.4
21.3
0
0
0
Voluntary and part time activities
1.1
4.5
2.1
NEET
3.8
0
4.3
Moved away/unavailable
1.6
0
8.5
Unknown
1.1
0
2.1
Entered Employment without training
for all our students The Learning Support Department consists of an experienced and dedicated team, including teaching assistants and support teachers. They are managed by the Director of Learning Support. We work closely with the primary feeder schools to ensure a smooth transition to the secondary environment. We aim to identify at the earliest opportunity all students who need special consideration and ensure that they are given the appropriate support to allow every student full access to the National Curriculum in a positive framework. The department operates in a variety of ways to support the identified requirements of all students who have specific learning needs. Withdrawal groups and one to one work help students who are having difficulties with specific skills such as basic reading and phonics. We currently have two members of staff trained in phonographix to deliver intensive programmes to these students. The majority of students are supported within lessons and teaching assistants help students to achieve the best standards of work possible within their lessons. All staff are made aware of the needs of the identified students on the audit and strategies are given to support them in a mainstream environment.
If your child has been identified by his or her primary school as requiring support in the secondary environment he or - run jointly by Wave, Safe Schools and the Dover Secondary Schools. This is valuable to the students to aid their settling in to their new school, helping to alleviate and answer their fears and questions. Our aim is to help parents to understand various special needs issues that interest them and we aim to support parents who want to help their children with college work at home. Therefore an open invitation to contact the Learning Support staff is extended throughout the whole year as well as regular contact through KS3 and KS4 Academic Review Days. Some students will receive an Individual Educational Plan, which parents will be invited to review. This re-inforces the good relationships between parents, students and the Department.
Astor College is committed to providing all students, irrespective of gender, race, disability or background, with the opportunity to fulfil their potential in every area of the curriculum and life of the College. Astor College fully supports the Kent Policy on Equal Opportunities.
Astor College strives to ensure that the culture and ethos of the College is one of which, whatever the heritage and origins of members of the college community, everyone is equally valued and treated with respect. Astor believes that each student and adult within the college community is unique, has rights and responsibilities and should be treated equally and with respect. The College will not tolerate racial harassment of any kind. As part of its work to promote racial equality, the College aims to ensure that within its education provision students are offered opportunities to: Understand and celebrate diversity. Develop and understanding of global citizenship. Develop relationships with students from other countries and communities. Develop an understanding of their rights, the rights of others and their responsibilities to each other.
The focus of Social Inclusion is on raising educational attainment for those students who are demonstrating disaffection or failing to participate fully in the College experience through challenging behaviour or poor attendance. Astor College meets these requirements by early intervention and identification of students at risk, by being proactive in meeting their needs and by providing teaching and learning within the College which is of the highest standard. Ensuring social inclusion is the responsibility of every member of staff, teaching and non-teaching. We have an Inclusion Centre running from 2.15pm until 6pm.
Astor holds the Basic Skills Award for Literacy and Numeracy. This means that we have shown, and will continue to show improvement in the Literacy and Numeracy grades of all our students. Our work will continue this academic year, by targeting those students who, on entry to Astor, have Key Stage 2 SATS Literacy and Numeracy levels of 3 or below in line with Government guidelines. These students will be given small group literacy and numeracy progress lessons during English and Mathematics lesson time to improve their competence in a variety of areas.
All college policies are available via the website or by a request in writing to the Principal. Financial Support If any school or college is to provide more than the bread and butter of education, it needs to call upon its parents and support general fundraising and sponsorship activities organised by the College. College Rules 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.
Bullying (verbal and physical), swearing, anti social behaviour and vandalism are forbidden. Students must not leave the premises unless they have written authority from parents and permission from staff. Smoking on college premises is forbidden at all times. Students are forbidden to bring knives or any other offensive weapon into College. Uniform must be worn at all times. Coats must not be worn in the classroom. Blazers should be worn at all times. Bicycles may not be brought onto college premises. Extremes of personal appearance are not accepted eg shaven or partially shaven heads, moustaches and beards, nose studs and other visible body piercing (apart from earrings) and visible tattoos. Mobile telephones will be confiscated if they are seen or heard at anytime or anywhere on the College site. A parent or adult is required to collect the item. The College and local environment must be respected.
10. 11.
Admissions Policy Our standard roll allows for an admission of 210 students. Places will be allocated taking account of the following in priority order: 1.
2.
3.
Children in Local Authority a child under the age of 18 years for whom the local authority provides accommodation by agreement with their parents/carers (Section 22 of the Children Act 1989) or who is the subject of a care order under Part IV of the Act. Current Family Association a brother or sister means children who live as brother or sister in the same house, including natural brothers or sisters, adopted siblings, stepbrothers or sisters and foster brothers and sisters. Health and Special Access Reasons Medical/Health and Special Access Reasons will be applied in Act 1995. Priority will be given to children under this criterion whose health or physical impairment means they have a demonstrable and significant need to attend a particular school. Medical/Health and Special Access Reasons must be supported with written evidence from an appropriately qualified
4. 5. 6.
the particular school. Staff who have children that wish to attend a Federation School. and the College in a straight line using Ordnance Survey address point data. If the College is oversubscribed, up to 10% of places will be admitted on ability in the arts. Please note that children applying for these places will need to spend a session as the College working on a set of creative tasks which will be assessed on merit.
Examination Entry Policy Students will be entered for appropriate examinations and the college will pay all the entry fees, provided they attend consistently, make continuous effort and submit all their coursework by deadlines. If students fail to meet these criteria, or are absent from examinations without good reason, parents may be invoiced for the entry fee. Externally set examinations cannot be rescheduled and so must, therefore, take a priority and precedence over other activities, including hospital appointments etc. Attendance In view of the continuous assessment required at all Key Stages by the DfE and the importance of student attendance, holidays in term time are not permitted. In exceptional circumstances, if a child has very good attendance, parents may apply for a holiday, but this must be accompanied by a letter of verification from their employer. Without this it would be classed as an unauthorised absence. Citizenship Citizenship education aims to prepare students for life as citizens of democracy. The Citizenship programme of study teaches students how to be: aware of their rights and responsibilities as citizens. informed about the social and political world. concerned about the welfare of others. articulate in their opinions and arguments. capable of having an influence on the world. active in their communities. responsible in how they act as citizens. In College, Citizenship is recognised as more than just a taught subject. It is tailored to the local needs of students. The skills and values taught aim to enhance democratic life for all of us; beginning in school and radiating out.
It is about enabling students as citizens to make their own decisions, to take responsibility and to make positive decisions in their lives. It encourages students to play a helpful part in the life of the College, their neighbourhood community and the wider world. In College, students are encouraged to play a full part in the community of the College through the Student Voice, via peer mentoring schemes, anti-bullying initiatives, links with other schools and reception duty.
Trustees Mr C Russell (Chairman) Mrs C Boxall Mr J Peall Mr B Williams Board of Directors Mr J Peall (Chairman and Appeals Officer)) Mr G Snellin (Vice Chairman) Mr C Russell (CEO) Mr B Williams (Deciding Officer) Mr B Eccles (Responsible Officer) Mrs C Boxall Cllr J Hood Mrs L Hannent Mrs A Billing Mrs C Donovan Mrs U Mills Mrs A Kehaya Mr J Skeggs Miss R Tolhurst (Company Secretary)
Parents have the right to address any matter with the Board of Directors. However, they must adhere to the Complaints Policy which states that such complaints must be dealt with through the Principal of the College in the first instance. The Board of Directors agrees to pay allowances to Directors to cover the following expenditure: Care arrangements for a dependant relative (including childcare/babysitting) Telephone charges, photocopying, stationery etc Travel and subsistence (ie reimbursement for meals purchased that would not have otherwise been bought) Although this is not an exhaustive list of possible allowances, it must not include payments to cover loss of earnings or for attending meetings. Travel allowances will be paid at the College rate not exceeding the maximum level of the Inland Revenue Authorised Mileage Rate. The Board of Directors will make provision from within the delegated budget in making adjustments for disabled Directors or for providing support to those Directors whose first language is not English.
DFAMAT Directors of Year 7 Chief Executive Year Mr D Clue Officer Mr C J Russell BA Med Cert Ed FRBA FRSA FCMI PA to Chief Executive Officer Ms R Tolhurst Director of Operations Mr M Doole Director of Finance Mrs M Cressey
Administration
Year 8 Mr S Jones
Administration Assistants: Ms P Powell Miss L Penn
Year 9 Mr B Harrison
College Receptionist: Mrs C Richards
Year 10 Mr M Gibson
Payroll and SIMS Co-ordinator: Miss K Edwards
Year 11 Mr S Moore
Director of Post 16
Finance Assistants: Mrs W Pettman Mrs D Pitts
Miss J Walton
Astor College Principal
Deputy Directors Of Year
Mr E Pallant BA/Ed(Hons) NPQH Director of Administration and PA to the Principal Miss M Marshall
Miss S Cloke Miss A Fenwick Mr S Davies Miss B Shahroodi Mrs S Chapman Mrs L Jones Mrs P Butterfield
Vice Principal
Pastoral Managers
Mr A Gerry BSc(Hons) PGCE
Assistant Principals Mrs A Kehaya MA Cert Ed Mr D Williams BA(Hons) PGCE Mr J Horne BA(Hons) PGCE FRBA Dr S Martin BSc(Hons) PGCE PhD
Mr M Sadler Mr P Wright Mrs S Castle Mr R Esdale Miss E Biddle BSc (Hons)
Inclusion Centre Manager Mr T Grady
Military Cadre & Combined Cadet Force Mr A Fotheringham BA (Hons) PGCE Mr A Krakowski LCGI MIiInstr Mr P Goko MSc (Hons) MSc
Media Resource Officer: Mrs V Powell Director of Examinations and Data Management: Miss H Power BA(Hons) Director of Secondary Student and Parent Support: Ms S Willis BA(Hons) MA Dipsw KAPT First Aider: Mrs D Doble
Operations and Support Staff Director of Site: Mr K Jones Assistant Director of Site: Mr D Winterbottom Mr A Smith Technicians: Mr S Blackford Mr G Holden Mr S Everett BA(Hons) PGCE Mr P Manship Mr L Stonebridge College Assistant: Miss L Fleming Site Managers: Miss L Fleming Mrs C Tucker Cleaners: Mrs A Martin Mrs F Neale Mrs J Wakefield Mrs J Westwood Mr A Smith Mrs J Bowler Mrs D Cook Mrs L Fleming Mrs J Fennings Mr P Glass Mr R Holbourne Mr C Grant Miss H Matthews
English and Media Department Director of English and Mathematics Mr A Gerry BSc(Hons) PGCE Associate Director of Department Mrs R Dutton BA(Hons) PGCE Mrs J Walton BA(Hons) PGCE Mrs E Hall BA/BSC(Hons) Mrs J Williams Cert Ed Mr R Lea BA (Hons) Miss A Amici BSc Mrs C Townsend BA(Hons) Mr A Silk BA(Hons) Mrs J Parker BA (Hons) Miss R Chapman BA (Hons) Miss C Mannion BA (Hons) PGCE Mr G Powell
Mathematics Department Director of Kent Challenge Mr A Gerry BSc (Hons) PGCE
Deputy Director of Department Mrs S Falconbridge BSc (Hons) PGCE Mr K Brown BSc PGCE Miss E Dando BSc Mr S Flack BEng (Hons) PGCE Miss M Foster BEd Mrs G Browne BSc (Hons) Cert Ed Miss K Turnball MA MSc
Humanities Department Director of Humanities Mrs C Blackman BSc (Hons) MA PGCE Mrs S Hills BA (Hons) PGCE Mr S Davies BA (Hons)
Mr D Clue BA (Hons) PGCE Mrs S Chapman BA (Hons) PGCE
Psychology Department
Mr S Everett BA (Hons) PGCE
Director of Department Mrs J Walton BA (Hons) PGCE
Miss K Elliott BSc(Hons) PGCE
Mr T Goodwin MA Dip Ed Cert Ed
Mrs A Fenwick BA (Hons) PGCE Miss D Sinclair BA (Hons) PGCE Mrs P Matthews-Crow BA (Hons) PGCE Mr B Harrison BA (Hons) Miss S Scott BA (Hons)
PE Department Director of Department Mrs S Fountain BEd (Hons)
Mr C Gellatly BA (Hons)
Deputy Director of Department Mr G Clubb BA (Hons) PGCE
Mr S Jones BA (Hons) PGCE
Mr M Gibson BSc (Hons) PGCE
Mr A Silk BA(Hons)
Mr S Moore BEd
Miss C Small BA(Hons) PGCE
Mrs R Krauspe HDE Sec Arts
Hospitality Department
Mrs M Pasquino CLANSA CLAIT
Mr T Goodwin MA Dip Ed Cert Ed
Performing Arts Department
Law Department Director of Department Mrs P Bragge BA (Hons) Dip Law
RE Department Director of Department Mrs M Greenstreet BA (Hons) Mr D Clue BA (Hons) Mrs H Clifford BA (Hons)
Sociology Department Director of Department Mrs A Crocker BSc (Hons) PGCE Mrs M Greenstreet BA (Hons)
ICT Department Director of Department Mr D Fountain BSc (Hons) PGCE
Lead Teacher in Mathematics Mr P Goko BSc (Hons) MSc
Miss D Sinclair BA (Hons) PGCE
Mr D Williams BA (Hons) PGCE
Mrs A Shopland Bed (Hons) Cert Ed
Mr A Fotheringham BA (Hons) PGCE
Mrs C Prior City and Guilds Hairdressing
Mr D Tracey BA (Hons)
Modern Languages Department
Director of Department Mr S Oliver Diploma in Acting
Director of Department Mrs A Kehaya MA Cert Ed
Mrs V Chamberlain BA (Hons) Cert Ed BTDA
Mr R Swain BSc (Hons) PGCE
Miss S Cloke Cert Ed
Business Studies Department
Mrs L Goodwin BEd Mrs A Shopland Bed (Hons) Cert Ed Mr M Gibson BSc (Hons) PGCE Mr S Moore BEd Mrs C Stupples Cert Ed Miss C Jones BA (Hons) PGCE Mr D Mowat BSc (Hons) PGCE
Science, Health and Social Care Department Director of Department Dr S Martin BSc (Hons) PhD PGCE
Mr J Floate BA (Hons) Mrs V Iverson Cert Ed Dip Languages
Art, Design and Media Department Director of Department Mr J Horne BA (Hons) PGCE FRBA Deputy Director of Department Mrs J Bates BA (Hons) PGCE Mr D Burns BA (Hons) PGCE
Director of Performing Arts Mrs V Chamberlain BA (Hons) Cert Ed BTDA
Drama Department
Ms B Shahroodi BSc PGCE Mrs L Jones BA (Hons) PGCE Miss P Butterfield BSc (Hons) Mrs R Krauspe HDE Sec Arts
Music Department Director of Department Mrs J Stapley BA (Hons) PGCE Mr S Oliver Diploma in Acting
Director of Department Mrs L Jones BA (Hons) PGCE
Miss S Cloke Cert Ed Miss A Gerrard BA (Hons)
Mrs A Crocker BSc (Hons) PGCE
General Studies Department Director of Department Mr T Goodwin MA Dip Ed Cert Ed Mrs S Fountain BEd (Hons) Miss V Wood BA (Hons) Cert Ed BTDA Miss S Cloke Cert Ed Mrs J Walton BA (Hons) PGCE
Public Services Department Mrs L Jones BA (Hons) PGCE Mrs A Shopland BEd (Hons)
Vocational Education Department Mrs A Shopland BEd (Hons) Mr S Jones BA (Hons) PGCE
Hairdressing and Retail Beauty Consultancy Mrs C Prior City and Guilds Hairdressing
Learning Support Director of Department SENCO Mrs S Stupples Cert Ed Mrs J Williams Cert Ed
Study Managers Miss C Matcham BSc (Hons) Mrs L Swain Mr T Grady Miss A Gerrard BA (Hons)
Teaching Assistants
Mrs A Shopland Bed (Hons)
Mrs K Brown BA (Hons) NVQ3
Miss P Butterfield BSc (Hons)
Mrs C Roushas City and Guilds (NVQ3)
Dance Department Mrs V Chamberlain BA (Hons) Cert Ed BTDA
Mrs H Clifford BA (Hons)
PSHE Department (Personal, Social, Citizenship and Health Education)
Mrs B Head OCNI Mrs M Pasquino CLANSA CLAIT Mrs S Linstrem
Director of Department and Personal Development Mrs L Goodwin BEd
Mr M Winter Miss N Midgley BA (Hons)
Mr E Pallant Principal
Mrs A Kehaya Assistant Principal
Mr C J Russell Chief Executive Officer of the DFAMAT
Mr E Pallant Principal of Astor College
Mr D Meades Principal of Barton Primary and Shatterlocks Infant and Nursery
Mrs S Knight Fotheringham Principal of White Cliffs Primary College for the Arts
Miss S Willis Director of Secondary Student and Parent Support
Painted by Beth Garner, Year 13
Astor College A Specialist College for the Arts Astor Avenue, Dover Kent CT17 0AS Telephone: 01304 201151 E mail: admin@astor.dfamat.com www.astorcollege.com This Prospectus was printed at Astor College in the Media Resources Department
Astor College A Specialist College for the Arts Astor Avenue, Dover Kent CT17 0AS Telephone: 01304 201151 Email: admin@astor.dfamat.com www.astorcollege.com
Cover image courtesy of Nikola Jurikova Prospectus designed and printed at Astor College