108514-1-350

Lasswade High School

LASSWADE HIGH SCHOOL

AN INTRODUCTION FOR PARENTS

1

Lasswade High School

LASSWADE HIGH SCHOOL CENTRE Eskdale Drive Bonnyrigg Midlothian EH19 2LA

CONTACTS

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School Office School Fax Sports Centre Reception Community Education Community Education Fax School E-Mail School Website

0131 663 7171 0131 663 6634 0131 660 1933 0131 663 8170 0131 663 8170 lasswade_hs@midlothian.gov.net www.lasswade.info

Lasswade High School

CONTENTS 1.

Introduction from the Head Teacher

Page 4

2.

History and Aims of the School

Page 5

3.

Organisation of the School Management Structure Personnel

Page 12

4.

Curriculum and Assessment - An Overview

Years 1 and 2

Years 3 and 4

Years 5 and 6 Assessment

Reports and Consultation with Parents

Record of Achievement

Page 17

5.

The Curriculum in the first Three Years Subject and Course Details

Page 27

6.

Pupil Support The Guidance Team Child Protection

Page 41

7.

Administrative Items and Notes for Parents

Address Attendance

Books and Equipment

Bus Permits Cafeteria

Careers Office

Clothing and School Dress - Clothing Grants Complaints

Discipline and Codes of Conduct

Education Department Employment Enrolment

Extra Curricular Activities

Foreign Travel

Free School Meals

Fund Raising

Health and Safety

Homework and Study

House Competitions

Parent Council

Medical Care

Lothian Children’s Family Charter

Parental Contacts

Religious Education and Assemblies Roll

Session Dates

Times of the Day

Page 44

8.

Page 67

Calendar of Events

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Lasswade High School

1. INTRODUCTION FROM THE HEAD TEACHER Dear Parent/Carer Any prospectus can only give a brief outline of the life of the school. To find out the real nature of the school it is essential to visit it, to talk to teachers and to meet students. I sincerely hope that all parents of prospective students will take the time to do this, either by means of visits arranged through their own Primary School or by personally arranging to call at the school. I feel confident that if you do this you will be impressed by the friendly and orderly atmosphere and by the work that is going on in classrooms, laboratories, workshops and other areas such as the Library.

In Lasswade we aim to give all our students a broad and balanced curriculum, which will enable them to acquire the skills, knowledge and qualifications they will need to take their place in society. The society in which our children are growing up is more complex, less secure and presents more challenges than in the past. It is our task, therefore, to help our students to grow up to become well-informed, flexible, self-confident, caring people, able to respond to the demands of life in the twenty-first century.

In addition to providing a wide range of courses and setting high standards for all its students, a school has to reflect the life of the community in which it is based and, indeed, of society at large. At Lasswade we endeavour to create opportunities for our students to understand and contribute to the life of our community and allow those who live and work in the area to share in the life of the school.

We believe that we are successful in doing this and our students have a relevant and stimulating education. They leave school knowing that their education has only just begun and that they, like the adults who have been in school with them, can continue to add to their knowledge and skills for as long as they choose.

I hope that by working in partnership with parents, by establishing relationships with employers and local agencies, by promoting visits to colleges and universities, we can help our young people to see the range of options available to them and encourage them to grasp those opportunities.

I believe that in Lasswade High School Centre, students, adults and members of the community are working together to shape a society where people can live harmonious, satisfying and creative lives.

Yours faithfully

Albert Jaster Head Teacher November 2012

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Lasswade High School

2. HISTORY AND AIMS OF THE SCHOOL

HISTORY Education has flourished in the parish of Lasswade from mediaeval times in various church and monastic establishments, but schooling, as we know it dates from the 16th century. Lasswade Kirk Session records list the names of the parish schoolmasters from 1646, and some of these, particularly the famous William Tennant, LL D, later professor of Oriental languages at St Andrew’s University, and Robert Marshall, who resigned in 1899 after 32 years as Headmaster, laid the foundation of Lasswade’s excellent record as a higher grade school. The school Dux to this day is presented with the Marshall Memorial Medal.

There are obvious connections with the noble estates of Melville, Dalhousie and Roslin and the school coat-of-arms reflects these and other educational connections with the area. On petition by the former Headmaster, the late Mr F Webster, MA, the Lord Lyon granted to the school a coat-of-arms, which is reproduced on the cover of this booklet.

The Melville “fess” or bar in red on a gold background, with the “engrailed” edges refers to the great House of Roslin. The falcons’ heads are the heraldic charge of the Nicolson Family, closely associated with Lasswade, and the Gold Key represents Gibson of Pentland, the family most prominently associated with the school. The black spread eagle represents, of course, the House of Dalhousie; the open book - learning.

The school motto “Usque Conabor” proclaims, “I shall keep on trying”!

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Lasswade High School

MORE RECENT DEVELOPMENTS In 1956, Lasswade Senior Secondary School, as it was then known, transferred to a new building on the present Poltonhall site. At the same time the decision was taken to transfer to the new school all students of secondary age in the immediate area. The school already served as the centre for students from Bonnyrigg, Lasswade, Loanhead, Penicuik and Rosewell, selected by examination for senior secondary education leading to the Scottish Leaving Certificate, but 1963 saw the last of the Penicuik students, who transferred to their own local school. The inclusion of all Loanhead students at a later stage made the newly named Lasswade High School a totally comprehensive senior school catering for boys and girls of all abilities.

In the past forty years the school population has varied between 700 and 1500 students. The current roll is around 1200 and it is expected to increase from this over the next few years.

The extensions, which were officially opened in 1978, provided new accommodation for Business Studies, Home Economics, Music, Art & Design, Science, Craft, Design & Technology, Library, Computer Room, Kitchen, Dining Room and Sports Centre. Areas of the existing school were converted to form new Craft, Design & Technology, Science and general classrooms.

During the year 2000 the school had a new Mathematics and Support wing built. This included fully equipped Mathematics classrooms, Guidance classrooms, offices and meeting rooms and a Support for Learning base with tutorial rooms. These have proved to be important developments for all students. A new security system was also installed as in all Midlothian schools.

The Sports Centre attached to the original school gymnasium comprises of a large Games Hall, two Squash Courts, Fitness Training Room, Activity Movement Studio, Games Room, Cafeteria, Kitchen, Crèche, Administrative Suite and Changing Rooms. Our playing fields are sited within the school grounds. Our most recent development has been the construction of an international standard Gymnastics Training Hall as part of the school. This has been named the Midlothian School of Gymnastics. It was constructed during 2003 and is now being used by day school students as well as by clubs at other times.

Construction work started on our new school building in November 2011 and at present is on schedule to open in August 2013 on the site of our present playing fields. In the meantime, the school will run as normal in the present building. The impressive building promises to be at the heart of the community with its extensive facilities and, for the first time in our history, a swimming pool.

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Lasswade High School

THE COMMUNITY SCHOOL Following extensive consultation, Lasswade High School was designated as a community school in August 1979. We have continued to develop the community dimension since then. In essence, this means that our staff, the facilities of our building and our other resources are available to students, young people and adults, during the day and in the evenings every day of the week including weekends.

Groups and individuals within the local communities are encouraged to make full use of our facilities for personal, educational, social, recreational and/or sporting activities. Lifts have been provided to allow easy access for people who have mobility problems.

We hope that students, parents and the community as a whole will continue to make use of the facilities and activities that are available. These are widely publicised by the school, in the local press at the start of each term and from time to time for special events and on the school website given below. www.lasswade.info

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Lasswade High School

OUR ASSOCIATED PRIMARY SCHOOLS Our seven associated primary schools are situated in the main centres of population of the district.

In Bonnyrigg and Lasswade, there are four primary schools; Bonnyrigg, Hawthornden, Hopefield and Lasswade. The two Loanhead schools are Loanhead and Paradykes. Rosewell Primary School serves the village of the same name and its surrounding communities.

The details of these schools are: Primary School

Address Telephone

Head Teacher

Bonnyrigg Primary School Cockpen Road Bonnyrigg EH19 3HR

0131 271 4570

Mrs S Hogg (Acting Head Teacher)

Burnbrae Primary School 144 Burnbrae Road Bonnyrigg EH19 3GT

0131 271 4605

Ms C Inglis

Hawthornden Primary School 0131 271 4600 Polton Avenue Road Bonnyrigg EH19 2NZ

Mrs G Maitland

Lasswade Primary School 7a Pendreich Drive Bonnyrigg EH19 2DX

0131 271 4615

Mrs J Fox

Loanhead Primary School 34 Edgefield Road Loanhead EH20 9DY

0131 271 4625

Mrs J Finlayson

Paradykes Primary School 3 Mayburn Walk Loanhead EH20 9HG

0131 271 4650

Mr T Wallace

Rosewell Primary School 85 Carnethie Street Rosewell EH24 9AN

0131 440 2233

Mrs L Dunbar

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Lasswade High School

A close relationship with our primary schools is maintained through regular meetings of Head Teachers and the close liaison of teaching and non-teaching staff. Some departments have a regular teaching commitment in our associated primary schools giving specialist help such as Physical Education, Home Economics, Mathematics and English. In other departments occasional contacts have been established to assist with the continuity of work through the later primary and early secondary stages. Particular care is taken to ensure that the transition between primary and secondary is smooth and free from undue stress.

OUR VALUES • We respect ourselves, others and the environment • We are supportive and caring to one another • We value hard work and enterprise

AIM OF THE SCHOOL “Nothing is more important than building a culture of inquiry and a community of learners. I would prefer my children to be in a school in which differences are looked for, attended to and celebrated as good news, as opportunities for learning …” (Roland Barthes, Harvard University).

Lasswade High School Centre offers all students - young people and adults alike - a varied and full curriculum along with a comprehensive community programme that promotes lifelong learning.

The aim of the centre is to provide a broad, balanced and challenging education appropriate to the aspirations, needs and abilities of each of our students in a caring environment in which staff and other resources are deployed to best effect. This aim can be described in more detail.

Academic Development - Curriculum and Attainment • To foster effective teaching and learning.

• To encourage all our students to achieve the highest possible standards.

• To cater for the needs and the all-round development of each individual student so that he/she can fulfil his/her potential.

• To encourage students’ enthusiasm for learning, their spirit of inquiry and their self-confidence.

• To provide students with a firm grounding in intellectual, physical, aesthetic, practical and personal skills which will be invaluable in a rapidly changing world.

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Lasswade High School

Ethos • To encourage students to see for themselves the value of education throughout their lives.

• To reflect the needs of the local community, of society at large and to encourage awareness of the wider world.

• To create opportunities for our students to understand and contribute to the life of our community and to allow those who live and work in the area to share in the life of the Centre.

• To work effectively in partnership with parents, external agencies and the local community so that the Centre is seen to be a vital asset to Midlothian.

Personal and Social Development • To value and provide appropriate support for each individual in the Centre.

• To encourage students to participate responsibly in a wide range of activities and to contribute to the life of the Centre.

• To develop in students the values of civilised behaviour - self-discipline, courtesy, honesty, respect for themselves, for others and for the environment.

Staff Development • To encourage all staff to maintain and enhance their skills.

• To encourage all staff to contribute to the life of the Centre and the community in general.

• To ensure that all staff are clear about their role in the organisation and management of the Centre.

• To encourage all staff to contribute positively to the effectiveness of the Centre.

Resources • To provide a safe, secure and attractive environment for learning and teaching.

• To maintain and enhance the provision and use of high quality resources to support effective teaching and learning.

Our School Aims can be achieved most effectively if staff, students, parents and the local authority work together, sharing a commitment to progress and excellence in learning. Each of these groups can contribute in the following ways:

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Lasswade High School

STAFF

STUDENTS

• Provide a stimulating and disciplined learning environment throughout the Centre.

• Provide appropriate support and challenges for students of all abilities to ensure progress in learning for all students.

• Communicate fully with parents/carers through Reports, Guidance staff, consultation meetings and about new curriculum initiatives.

• Show respect to all students and act in a fair and just manner. Take immediate action on indiscipline, truancy and attitude or personal problems,

• Attend, come fully equipped with all you need and be prepared to do your best.

• Use your homework diary; plan your study time at home; return homework assignments on time.

• Learn to co-operate, listen and discuss to solve your problems. If you fail, ask advice.

• Respect your surrounding environment. Seek help on how to improve it.

• Respect other students and all others who help you. Follow your Codes of Conduct.

PARENTS

MIDLOTHIAN COUNCIL

• Ensure that your son/daughter arrives in school on time, with all essential equipment: schoolbag, pen, pencil, eraser, ruler, PE kit, etc. Support the school Uniform Policy.

• Check our Calendar of Events for dates affecting your son/daughter, especially Parents’ Consultation Evenings.

• Be aware of the pressure of homework arrangements: check and sign his/her homework diary. Provide access to sources of information which he/she may need for study eg books, local libraries, TV programmes.

• Support the school in its Discipline Policy.

• Contact the school at any time to discuss any problem, which may arise. Contact the Chair of the Parent Council regarding any general issue that you feel is important.

• Provide a safe and pleasant environment for students and staff.

• Provide adequate staffing and resources to ensure the effective delivery of courses for students.

• Provide in-service training for all staff and opportunities for all students.

• Support the school in its Discipline Policy.

• Ensure effective communication of all issues, which affect

NOTE: Persistent disruption of learning or bullying will never be tolerated.

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Lasswade High School

3. ORGANISATION OF THE SCHOOL THE STRUCTURE At present, there are over 90 teaching staff employed in Lasswade, covering the statutory secondary provision, primary specialist assistance and the wider demands, both day and evening, of a community high school. The personnel and number of staff will of course vary from year to year. They are assisted by a number of Support Staff who help to ensure the smooth running of the school.

The Management Structure of the school is illustrated in the diagram below. These senior members of staff form the Board of Management of the Centre.

Head Teacher Mr A Jaster Depute Head Teacher Science DEPARTMENTS: Faculty Biology, Business Management, Computing, Craft Design and Mr C S Mitchell Technology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, Science Depute Head Teacher Arts Faculty DEPARTMENTS: Mrs R D Mitchell Art and Design, Drama, Home Economics, Physical Education, Music Depute Head Teacher Humanities DEPARTMENTS Faculty English, History, Geography, Modern Languages, Modern Studies, Miss A Ward Religious Moral and Philosophical Studies Depute Head Teacher Support Faculty Mrs F Wightman

Pupil PUPIL AND SUPPORT TEAMS: Guidance, Support for Learning, Partner Agencies

Acting Centre Manager Miss C Butters

CENTRE SERVICES: Coaches and Crèche, Sports

Senior Community Worker Mr J Herriot

COMMUNITY EDUCATION: Community Teachers and Activity Leaders Local Community Team

Administrative Assistant Mrs D Sneddon

ADMINISTRATION: Administration and Organisation, Support Staff

Duty Co-ordinator Mr J McCann/ Mr I Sturgeon

MAINTENANCE: Cleaning and Visiting Maintenance Staff, Janitorial

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Lasswade High School

AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY OF MEMBERS OF SENIOR MANAGEMENT AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY OF MEMBERS OF SENIOR MANAGEMENT CURRICULUM & ASSESSMENT

SOCIAL & COMMUNITY

ADMINISTRATION

STAFF RELATIONSHIPS

FUNCTION Head Teacher

Overall School Policy

Forward Planning

Educational Links

Appointments

MR A JASTER

Deployment of Staff

Information

Parent Council

References

Equal Opportunities

Public Relations

Coordination of Community Programme

Probationer Reports

Discipline

Working Groups

Discipline ~ Overall

Welfare and Support

Quality Assurance

Assemblies

Library and Resource Centre

Health and Welfare

Curriclulum for Excellence

School Fund

Pupil Council

Technician and Janitorial

Health and Safety Head of Science Faculty

Timetable Operation

Computerised Administration

Website

Staff in Faculty

MR C S MITCHELL

Curriculum Development

Examinations

GLOW

Records

and Assessment within the

SQA Co-ordinator

Science Faculty

CAT Testing

SQA Co-ordinator Improvement in Performance Achievement and Reporting Numeracy Head of Arts Faculty MRS R D MITCHELL

Curriculum Development

Prize Givings

Special Events

Staff in Faculty

and Assessment within the

Charities

Visits Abroad

Staff Absence Management

Arts Faculty

Communications

Outdoor Education and Excursions

International Education

Study Support

House Competitions

S3/S4 Curriculum

New School Building

Extra Curricular Activities

Health and Wellbeing

Publicity Excursions (finance) Discipline in 'SL'

Head of Humanities Faculty

Learning and Teaching

Discipline in 'SA'

Staff in Faculty

MISS A D WARD

Staff Development

Parents' Evenings Arrangements

Staff Development

Curriculum Development

S1 Induction

Assocated Primary School Link

and Assessment within the

Eco Schools

Humanities/Languages Faculty

P7 Transfer

Literacy Head of Pupil Suport MRS F WIGHTMAN

Curriculum Development and Assessment within Guidance and Pupil Support

Registration

Discipline in 'MK'

Guidance Teams

Records, References and UCAS

Careers Guidance

Support for Learning

Work Experience

Liaison with Partner Agencies

Additional Support Needs

Personal and Social Education

Pupil Welfare

Child Protection

Welfare and Support Staff

S5/S6 Curriculum + 16 Choices

S5/S6 Coursing

Senior School Induction

Partner Agencies

Inclusion and Equalities

Over 12's Forum

Improvement Planning

Admissions

Co-ordinated Support Plans

Acting Centre Manager

Development of Sports and

Finance

Recreation and Leisure

Centre Management Staff

MISS C BUTTERS

Leisure Activities

Reception

Programmes and Liaison

Support Staff

Lets/Hires

Weekend Events

Creche

Repairs and Improvement Planning

Holiday Programmes

Coaches

Large Events Senior Community Worker

Development and Maintenance

Publicity and Advertisements

Community Groups

Community Staff

MR J HERRIOT

of Community Programme In and

Supervision of Programme Staff

Local Community Team

Part Time Community Staff

Out of the Centre

Staff Development on

Adult Students

Administration Staff

Community Issues

Local Young People

Administrative Assistant

Administrative and Auxiliary

Administration

Community Use of Reprographics

Administrative Staff

MRS D SNEDDON

Support

Minutes

Facilities

Auxiliary Staff

Clerical Support

Accounts

Janitorial and Cleaning Staff

Requisitions Reprographics Hardware Maintenance Statistical Returns Duty Co-ordinator

Janitorial and

Maintenance Log

Support for Community Access

MR I STURGEON

Maintenance Support

Cleaning Equipment

and Use of Facilities

Inventory Monitoring of Cleaning

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Lasswade High School

PERSONNEL Our staff are caring, committed, professional people who are tackling the challenging demands of an ever changing education scene with skill and imagination.

The full staff, teaching and non-teaching are listed.

Mr A Jaster Mr C S Mitchell Mrs R D Mitchell Miss A D Ward Mrs F Wightman ART Mr M Miller Mr C Dolan Mrs A Gatherar Mrs E H Hannah Ms H Hanratty

Head Teacher Depute Depute Depute Depute Head of Department

BUSINESS STUDIES AND COMPUTING Mr G Tennet Head of Department Mrs D J Beards Computing Mrs Y A Field Computing Mrs C J Marple Business Studies Ms M McKenna Computing Mrs S Young Business Studies BIOLOGY/CHEMISTRY/PHYSICS/SCIENCE Miss A Wallerstein Head of Department Biology Miss M MacGregor Mr G Boyle Dr J Kerr Mrs A Medlock Chemistry Mrs W Easterbrook Mr J A E Haggart PT Guidance Mr A Proctor Mr I J Stewart Physics Ms D Fullard Mr L Rogers Science Mr J Campbell CRAFT DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY Mrs S Rhodes Head of Department Mr S Gulzar Mr B Inglis Mr S Johnson Mr J McQueen PT Guidance Miss G Ryder Mr Technician 14 J Green

DRAMA/MUSIC Miss L Hume Drama Mr M Mason Ms M Paul Music Mrs J Connor Miss A Grigor Ms G Jack Ms T Dance Mr J Dickson Mrs A Dougan Instructor Mr G McLeod Mrs C Timmins Instructor Miss J Waddell ENGLISH Mrs L Sloan Mrs I A Brown Mrs F Chalton Mr D I Hughson Mr C Lee-Barron Ms D Johnston Miss E Lloyd Miss K Longmore Mrs R D Mitchell Miss C Paterson Miss M Shepherd Mr S Tranter Mr C Turton Mrs F Wightman Mrs S Wilkins GEOGRAPHY/HISTORY Miss E Malcolm Geography Mrs F A N Owen Mrs A Wilson History Miss L Cathro Miss A Kemp

Head of Department

PT Guidance Cello Instructor Brass Instructor Double Bass/Piano Guitar Instructor Upper Strings Percussion Instructor Head of Department

Depute

Depute PT Guidance Head of Department

Lasswade High School

GUIDANCE Mrs S Begbie Mrs J Connor Mr J A E Haggart Mr J McQueen Mrs M Muirhead Mrs S Wilkins Mrs J Costello HOME ECONOMICS Mrs J Ross Miss M Anstruther Mrs L Bigley Mrs C E J Eccles Miss L Fairley Mrs M Muirhead Mrs S Taylor MATHEMATICS Ms M Edmond Mr S Carruthers Mr I Christie Mr D Hunter Miss J Hunter Mr P Knox Mrs J Macdonald Miss J McDonald Mr C Mitchell Ms J Robertson Mrs S Wallace Miss A Webb Ms G Wright MODERN LANGUAGES Mr J Poots Mrs S Begbie Mrs C Coquerelle Mr J Forbes Miss M Gelard Mr I R Stewart Miss C Wang Miss A Ward Mrs S Watt MODERN STUDIES Ms C Gee Mrs A Rodger Mrs K Simpson

PT Mount Esk PT St Annes PT St Leonards PT St Annes (Acting) PT St Leonards PT Mount Esk Support Assistant

PHYSICAL EDUCATION Mr G Falconer Mrs L Burge Mr C Dewar Mr I Gallagher Miss R Low Mrs C Main Miss C Murray Miss S Outerson

Head of Department

Head of Department

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION Ms F Williams Head of Department Miss H Lyon Mr K Wilson

PT Guidance Auxiliary

SCIENCE Miss J Liddell

Head of Department Principal Teacher

Depute

French/German/Spanish

Head of Department PT Guidance

Depute

Head of Department

Technician

SUPPORT FOR LEARNING Mrs C Easton Head of Department Mrs K Flynn Mrs S Hall Principal Teacher Mrs N Lyell Mrs V Lyon Mrs F Wightman Depute Mrs K Wilson Mrs J Balloch Learning Assistant (ASN) Mrs E Gerrish Learning Assistant (ASN) Mr W Fleming Learning Assistant (ASN) Ms Y Gray Learning Assistant (ASN) Mrs G Halley Learning Assistant (ASN) Mrs K Kane Learning Assistant (ASN) Mrs C King Learning Assistant (ASN) Mrs C MacKenzie Learning Assistant (ASN) Mrs A Macpherson Learning Assistant (ASN) Mr I Rankin Learning Assistant Mrs S Thomson Learning Assistant Miss C Duns Youth Worker ADMINISTRATION AND RESOUCE SERVICES Mrs D Sneddon Administrative Assistant Mrs R Risien Administrative Assistant Mrs S Bolton Support Assistant Mrs J Charters Support Assistant Mrs J Costello Support Assistant Mrs E Fairley Support Assistant Mrs J Fawns Support Assistant Mrs S Higginson Support Assistant Mrs S Innes Support Assistant Mrs A Kelly Support Assistant Mrs D McInulty Support Assistant Mrs B Scott Support Assistant Mrs Z Gray Welfare Auxiliary Mr K Stewart Printroom Operator Mr H Cochrane IT Technician Mr R Wilson IT Technician 15

Lasswade High School

CATERING SERVICES Mr D Toon CENTRE SERVICES Miss C Butters Mr D Burnett Mr J Gilfillan Mrs A Forrest Mrs M Arnott Mrs C Henderson Mrs P Smith Mr C Anderson Mr R Davidson Mr A Innes Mrs S McKenzie Mr D Wrobel Mrs K McDonald Mrs A Sinnet

Acting Centre Manager Duty Officer Asst Centre Manager Support Assistant Support Assistant Support Assistant Support Assistant Attendant Attendant Attendant Attendant Attendant Crèche Supervisor Crèche Supervisor

COMMUNITY EDUCATION Mr J Herriot Snr Community Ed Worker Ms K Lamb Comm Learning Worker Mrs J Charters Support Assistant Mrs I McCulloch Support Assistant FACILITIES STAFF Mr I Sturgeon Mr J McCann Mr P Duffy Mr J Turnbull

Duty Co-ordinator Duty Co-ordinator Site Supervisor Site Supervisor

LIBRARY RESOURCE CENTRE Mr A Robson Librarian

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4. CURRICULUM AND ASSESSMENT - AN OVERVIEW This section outlines the curriculum offered to students at different stages – first, second, third years and during the Broad General Education (BGE) fourth years, fifth and sixth years, the senior phase.

Additional, more detailed, information about the courses offered is issued to parents at the appropriate times. This is supplemented by meetings for parents and by individual discussion with Guidance or senior members of staff.

We aim to provide an educational programme that will equip every student with knowledge and skills, which will be important to them in the adult world of work, leisure, personal relationships and adult life. It is the policy of the school that the combination of subjects offered is kept as flexible as possible so that all interests and abilities can be satisfied while keeping as many career options open as possible.

It is our aim that all students will follow courses in which they have a reasonable chance of success.

The curriculum takes full account of the changing needs of society and industrial and vocational links are emphasised in many courses.

The atmosphere within the school is also important in reinforcing students’ understanding of certain values. Through contact with other students, including adults, and staff both inside and outwith the classroom we try to ensure that students appreciate the importance of qualities like honesty, selfreliance, co-operation, concern for others, tolerance and hard work. Social competence and awareness are encouraged both in classes and in extra-curricular, residential and community activities.

CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE What is Curriculum for Excellence?

Curriculum for Excellence aims to achieve a transformation in education in Scotland by providing an improved, more flexible and enriched curriculum for all children and young people from 3 to 18. The curriculum includes all of the experiences which are planned for children and young people through their education, wherever they are being educated. All schools and nurseries in Midlothian are working hard to raise standards so that children and young people will develop all of the skills necessary to continue to be successful when leaving school and entering the world of higher education, training or work.

Curriculum for Excellence is underpinned by the values inscribed on the mace of the Scottish Parliament – wisdom, justice, compassion and integrity. The purpose of Curriculum for Excellence is encapsulated in the four capacities – to enable each child or young person to be a successful learner, a confident individual, a responsible citizen and an effective contributor.

What are the Curriculum Areas in Curriculum for Excellence?

There are eight curriculum areas:Expressive Arts Health and Wellbeing Languages (literacy) Mathematics (numeracy)

Religious and Moral Education Sciences Social Studies Technologies

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Lasswade High School

Literacy and numeracy are given added importance because these skills are so vital in everyday life. All teachers will have a responsibility to teach literacy and numeracy.

Learning is divided into levels and stages:Curricular Level Early First

Second

Third/Fourth

Senior Phase

Stage the pre-school years and P1. to the end of P4. to the end of P7.

S1-S3.

S4 – S6 and College.

What Will Assessment Look Like?

Assessment will focus on the application of standards and expectations of each student’s progress and achievement in knowledge and understanding in:• Skills, knowledge • Attributes and capabilities in respect of experiences and outcomes in each of the student’s timetabled curricular areas.

Reports will indicate each student’s progress in the curriculum areas.

Assessment will help students to show their progress through the levels and enable them to demonstrate their achievements in a range of ways appropriate to their learning. For a student to demonstrate their progress is secure and that they have achieved a level they will need to show they:• Have achieved breadth of learning in that curricular area.

• Can respond to the challenge set out in the experience and outcome.

• Can apply what they have learned into new situations.

How will my Child’s Learning be Assessed Nationally?

There will be new ways of assessing each child’s progress to make sure that potential is achieved. New qualifications are being developed:Literacy and Numeracy will be assessed (at the end of S3) from 2012/2013.

National 4 and 5 qualifications from 2013/2014.

Access, Highers and Advanced Highers will be updated to reflect Curriculum for Excellence.

In classrooms, staff will be using improved ways of assessing children’s learning, taking account of national and local advice and guidance. Your child’s progress will be reported to you so that you know how well your child in doing.

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Lasswade High School

Students in S1 follow courses in the eight curricular areas during their first year, covering each of the eight curriculum areas. In addition there will be opportunities for some topic based learning, incorporating a number of these subject disciplines within projects (Interdisciplinary Learning). Personal learning plans will also be developed to help students to think about the learning process and, with their teachers, to identify next steps in learning across the curriculum.

It is our intention to allow some limited choice within a few curriculum areas during S2 and some degree of specialisation and choice in S3, in preparation for the Senior Phase.

Parents will be kept informed of these developments as they are confirmed.

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THE CURRICULUM IN YEARS 1,2 AND 3 (BGE) Each student is introduced in his/her first two years to a course of studies, ie a course shared by all students of whatever ability. Presently the thirty two period structure will be allocated to the subjects as follows. During the coming year, this structure will be reviewed in line with a Curriculum for Excellence.

1st Year

2nd Year

3rd Year

English

5

5

4

Mathematics

5

5

4

French

3

3

3

Geography

1

1

) Choice

History

1

1

)2x2

Modern Studies

1

1

) periods

Craft, Design & Technology

2

2

) Choice

Computing

1

1

)2x2

Home Economics

2

2

) periods

Science

3

3

4 choice 2 Science

Art

1

2

) Choice

Drama

1

1

)2x2

Music

2

1

) periods

Religious Education

1

2

2

Physical Education

2

2

2

Personal & Social Education

1

1

1 1

32

33

33

The Support for Learning Department offers support to any students, at any stage of their school career, who feel they need support with their learning. Students may refer themselves; parents, subject teachers or Guidance teachers may also refer them. Mrs Easton is the Head of the Support for Learning Department; Mrs Hall is Principal Teacher with specific responsibility for students with Additional Support Needs. Support may take a variety of forms. Some students may just need a chat with a Support for Learning teacher. This might take place during break or lunchtime, or might involve coming out of a class for one period. Sometimes students come for a block of time, perhaps six weeks, to work in depth on a particular problem. Where there are significant difficulties a student may be extracted from classes for an agreed number of periods each week in order to provide longer term, regular support. Support is also provided for students in class. This support may be offered by an S6 volunteer, a Learning Assistant (Additional Support Needs) or a Support for Learning teacher. Whatever your child’s needs it is a good idea to speak to your child’s Guidance teacher or to the Support for Learning teacher assigned to your child’s House if you have concerns about his or her learning.

Mount Esk .................. Mrs Hall St Annes .................. Mrs Flynn St Leonards ............... Mrs Lyon

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Allocation to classes has reference to primary school assessment of abilities and to catchment area, the aim being to make each class a reasonably representative group of mixed ability, drawn from more than one area. Students will be placed, whenever possible, in the same House as any elder sister or brother.

This in turn leads to a wider circle of friends and the sense of belonging to one large family. The classes in Mathematics are rearranged (set) by ability in the subject to allow the students to develop at different paces. Some rearrangement of classes is undertaken in English and Modern Languages during these two years. In the other subjects students continue to be taught in their original classes during second year.

Detailed information about the courses in first and second year is given in Chapter 5.

Eco Schools Working Group The school had its Green Flag status renewed last year.

The Eco Group has three active branches comprising a junior group who meet at lunchtimes, a senior group who meet weekly and the steering group who meet monthly. All members are welcome at any of the after school steering group meetings.

Our priorities for this year are waste minimisation and achieving Fairtrade status. We have a regular Fairtrade Friday tuck shop which is very popular. Last year we trialled selling rice from Malawi and became ‘Rice Champions’ as we sold every kilo required to meet the ‘Rice Challenge’! In addition, we sold some jams and chutneys made by Swazi women and this was so successful that we will be selling these again this year in the run up to Christmas.

Our S2 students study Eco Schools and choose a topic to research in groups. They then present their findings to others in the class and also produce displays. There is a best group prize drawn from the best in House groups judged by member of the community.

The Senior Eco Group is helping to create a new garden area for Mount Esk Nursery. This is an exciting project as the group have to clear the existing area and start designing a garden to meet the needs of the nursery pupils.

We would be delighted if any parent/carer or member of the community could help us in any way with the eco work.

If you could help us, please telephone the school on 0131 663 7171 or pick up a form from the school office.

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THE CURRICULUM IN YEAR 3 Towards the end of second year and during S3, students will be given the opportunity to have greater personalisation and choice in each of the curricular areas. Students will all carry forward the operating areas of Literacy, Numeracy and Health and Wellbeing.

• • • • • • •

Mathematics English Languages Science Social Subjects Creative Arts Technology

All students will continue to study Religious Education. During S3, students will develop skills at 3rd level or 4th level in the subjects they select to continue with whilst embarking on content for studies at National 4 and National 5 in S4.

THE CURRICULUM IN YEAR 4 Current students are following a course of study taking up to eight subjects with English and Mathematics compulsory. The subject will be studied at each National 3, 4 or 5.

There are also a variety of vocational options available to students which include :• • • •

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Hospitality Hairdressing Horticulture Craft and Construction

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THE CURRICULUM IN YEARS 5 AND 6 A wide and varied range of courses is available to our S5 and S6 students. Most of those on offer are Scottish Qualifications Authority Courses and Units. These courses can be studied at various levels Advanced Higher, Higher, Intermediate 2 and Intermediate 1. Students can therefore choose to study at the level and pace which best suits the individual. Interest classes are also offered in addition to the Personal and Social Education Programme so that our young people benefit from a rounded and wellbalanced curriculum. (A copy of the Course Choice Sheet is included for your information.)

Course Choice for our senior students takes place in the Spring term, in preparation for the following session. A full programme of University/College and Careers advice is in place which prepares them for what is, an extremely important decision making time.

Homework in S5 and S6 is intensive, but can vary from subject to subject. It is however an integral part of Higher courses and we encourage parents to support both the student and the teacher in ensuring it’s completion.

A full Study Support Programme is in place, which gives students the opportunity to reinforce class work. Our extremely well resourced Library is available to all students for private study.

Whether students plan to go on to University, College Training or employment, mechanisms exist to facilitate their transition to life after school.

We encourage our senior students to play a wider role in the school. Many are chosen to be Prefects and help in the day to day running of the school. We believe that this type of responsibility is a good preparation for adult life.

Our S6 students are invited to apply for positions as Office Bearers (Head Boy, Head Girl and their Deputies and House Captains). Office Bearers are expected to organise Prefect Duties and to chair various committees - Charities, Website, Prom etc. The Charities Committee has an enviable reputation for raising money for a wide variety of good causes at home and abroad. Again, we believe this is an important aspect of our young peoples’ education.

Our aim in S5 and S6 is to prepare our young people for life. We believe that it is just as important that young people leave Lasswade as well-rounded individuals, as with good academic qualifications.

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REPORTS AND CONSULTATION WITH PARENTS Each year parents receive one tracking and one full report providing information about students’ progress in each subject. Parents are able to comment on the details of the report or to request an interview with Guidance Staff or a member of our Senior Staff to discuss the report. There are, of course a number of full Parents’ Meetings where you can meet your son’s/daughter’s class teachers (please see Chapter 8, Calendar of Events for dates in the current session), and you are invited at any time to make an appointment to discuss matters of concern with Guidance Staff. The Head Teacher, Mr Jaster, is also available at his surgery on Monday evenings, between 5.00 pm and 7.00 pm, or during the school day by appointment.

Please note that arrangements for Parents’ Consultation Meetings are governed by National Agreements, which limit the amount of time that can be devoted to such meetings. As a school, we are not able to extend the time available, nor can we increase the number of meetings held annually.

REPORTS First, Second and Third Years In the first three years, students will follow a Broad General Education. They will have their progress assessed, reflecting performance in subjects or in key topic or skill areas within the subject. Departments will indicate progress and achievement in line with Curriculum for Excellence guidelines.

Reporting Cycle for 2012-13 S1 Tracking Report indicating general progress – December 2012.

S1 Full Report giving details of progress in each subject area – June 2013.

S2 Tracking Report indicating general progress – November 2012.

S2Full Report giving details of progress in each subject area – March 2013.

S3 Tracking Report indicating general progress – October 2012.

S3 Full Report giving details of progress in each subject area – May 2013.

S4 Tracking Report indicating general progress – October 2012.

S4 Full Report giving details of progress in each subject area – January 2013.

S5/S6 Tracking Report indicating general progress – December 2012.

S5/S6 Full Report giving details of progress in each subject area - February 2013.

RECORD OF ACHIEVEMENT Each student’s record is summarised and presented to him/her as a formal ‘Record of Achievement’ at the end of his/her school career. It is a documentary account of the student’s achievements while at school. The document: • • • •

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Describes achievements.

Outlines what he/she can do.

Covers academic and other areas such as personal qualities.

Highlights core skills (eg literacy and numeracy) and practical skills.

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It has long been conceded that examination results alone give an incomplete picture of the qualities of an individual. The Record of Achievement provides: • • • • •

Recognition for students.

Motivation to work at school.

An opportunity to show individual personal development.

Assistance for learning.

A documentary record on which the student can base future planning.

It has been designed to: • • • • • •

Benefit students in schools.

Provide information for parents.

Enable schools to highlight the achievements of students.

Help in the preparation of career plans through discussion with careers advisers.

Provide a basis for discussion at interviews with employers.

Assist entry to Further and Higher Education by including relevant information.

We have found that students who have received their Record of Achievement in the past have found it to be a useful document, which is well worth possessing and is, more and more, being requested by prospective employers during interviews.

PRIZE GIVING In Lasswade High School Centre we believe in rewarding our young people for as wide a variety of school achievements as possible.

Junior Prize Giving Junior Prize Giving takes place in June each year. Students in S1-S3 are nominated by their class teachers in a number of categories.

On a regular basis Achievement Assemblies will take place to reflect Academic Achievement, Sporting Achievement, Behaviour, Attendance, Public Speaking and the Arts. The school has also developed sport colours to reflect the sporting achievement of students during the session.

Certificates are presented to the winners in front of an audience comprising parents, school staff and invited guests. Musical items are a most enjoyable part of the ceremony.

Senior Prize Giving Prize Giving for years S4-S6 takes place in September each year. A guest speaker presents the prizes to our senior students. We try to encourage former students to come back to the school to fulfil this role.

Previous speakers have included former Head Girl, Lesley Purdie - now an Advocate, Graeme Randall - former World Judo Champion, Alan Jones - Detective Chief Inspector (Lothian & Borders Police), Rajiv Joshi, former Head Boy and Chair of the Scottish Youth Parliament and Peter Wright, Scottish and British Lions Rugby International.

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Prizes are awarded by subject departments to those senior students whose achievements are considered worthy of recognition. This is on the basis of their SQA results and their performance in class over the year.

The Marshall Memorial Medal is presented to the Dux of the school. This medal was first presented in 1901 and is in memory of a former Head Teacher of the school, Robert Marshall. Mr Marshall was Head Teacher from 1867-1899. We in school are very proud of this tradition and the medal is cast each year

by Alex Kirkwood & Son of Edinburgh as it has been from its inception.

We also recognise sporting achievements and the Arts. A number of Special Awards are presented.

These include the Stuart Adam Milne Award - presented in memory of a former student who tragically died while a student at Edinburgh University.

The Alex Elrick Award is presented to the senior student who in the view of the Music Department has made the greatest contribution to music through singing. Alex was Head of Music at Lasswade High School Centre in the 1960s, then Assistant Head Teacher until his retirement in 1982. An extremely popular and inspirational teacher, he was the founder of the world famous Kevock Choir.

Senior Office Bearers (Head Boy/Girl and their Deputies as well as House Captains) receive certificates.

It is our aim to reward as many and varied achievements as possible.

These events are an important and high profile feature of our school calendar. They allow all parties, students and parents to celebrate the achievements of our very talented young people.

Positive Praise Stamps The school has introduced an award system, initially for S1 and S2 students. Students are awarded ‘stamps’ by their class teacher. These stamps are recorded in students’ homework diaries. When a full page of stamps has been collected students will receive a positive referral and certificate at Achievement Assemblies.

Positive referral forms are also issued to students who have produced good work, performed well or represented the school.

Achievement Assemblies Individual student achievements at departmental, whole school and within the community will be recognised at monthly Achievement Assemblies. At these assemblies, students will be presented with certificates to celebrate their achievement.

Sports Colours Sports colours are awarded in recognition of the service and contribution students make to sport and who have displayed outstanding achievement, dedication and commitment, in their chosen activity, in school or at club level. Students can be nominated for awards by teachers, coaches, parents/carers, peers or themselves. To nominate from outwith the school, please send any information via email to lasswade_hs@midlothian.gov.uk to tell us of any sporting achievements.

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5. THE CURRICULUM IN THE FIRST THREE YEARS This chapter is intended to give you detailed information about each of the subjects studied during first and second year in the school.

ART AND DESIGN Art and Design Department take a thematic approach, handling a range of issues including citizenship, health and wellbeing, enterprise and successful learning.

Students will enjoy a wide range of stimulating and exciting artistic experiences including drawing and painting, ceramics, sculpture, printmaking and computer aided design. They will also engage in interdisciplinary projects with other departments.

Students will experience a broad range of creative media and cover all the relevant artistic areas including line, tone, texture, colour, critical activity and problem solving. Lessons offer breadth, challenge and application and enable all students to achieve success.

Students are continually assessed and both class work and test pieces are considered. Self and peer evaluations are utilised. Assessment is informative, identifying strengths and needs as well as next steps.

The Art and Design Department recommends that students visit the various art exhibitions held throughout the year within the school. Visits to the public galleries should also be encouraged.

Homework sketchbooks are issued to all first and second year students and regular use greatly adds to their creative development. Students receive written and oral feedback for all homework.

ICT is used to explore artists and designers and their work. Students are introduced to graphic design software.

Students are encouraged to creatively express themselves in a positive and meaningful manner.

The emphasis of our course is on providing a rewarding and enjoyable experience for all students enabling them to fulfil their visual and critical creativity. This experience will enable students to make an informed option choice.

DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY The course in CDT provides a range of different contexts for learning that draw on important aspects of everyday life and work.

It includes creative, practical and work-related experiences and outcomes in craft, design, engineering, graphics and information technologies.

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Participating in experiences and outcomes in the technologies enables children and young people to become informed, skilled, thoughtful, adaptable and enterprising citizens, and to:• Develop a considered understanding of the role and impact of technologies in changing and influencing societies.

• Contribute to building a better world by taking responsible, ethical actions to improve their lives, the lives of others and the environment.

• Gain the confidence and skills to embrace and use technologies now and in the future, at home, at work and in the wider community.

• Become informed consumers and producers who have an appreciation of the merits and impacts of products and services.

• Be capable of making reasoned choices relating to the environment, sustainable development and ethical, economic and cultural issues.

• Broaden their understanding of the role that information and communications technology (ICT) has in Scotland and in the global community.

• Experience work-related learning, and establish firm foundations for lifelong learning and, for some, specialised study and careers.

This will be delivered through a course which covers the following learning areas:• Designing.

• Making.

• Graphic Communication.

• Technology.

DRAMA The S1 course, fitting the requirements of a Curriculum for Excellence, contains three blocks; Using Movement and Mime; Using Voice and Language; Adopting and Developing Role. It aims to develop the students’ ability to express themselves both physically and verbally. It is also about bringing on a student’s creative talent, whilst helping develop more confident individuals.

The S2 course has been designed to further develop drama skills gained in S1 and also meet the requirements of a Curriculum for Excellence. There are three blocks; Devised Drama; Scripted Drama; Scottish Drama and Drama Forms. There is an emphasis on using drama to explore issues that affect young people, developing the idea of responsible citizenship. Throughout the progression of the course breadth of materials that challenge the student have been embedded into the course that accommodates the pace of learning for all students. Developing drama through group work encourages students to become more effective contributors and also confident individuals who can make a contribution to the classes through their understanding of the themes and issues explored. The course also looks at popular culture and the

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In S3 and S4 students are able to progress to Standard Grade Drama to develop their performance and theatre skills.

ENGLISH Students follow courses in English and literacy studies which are designed in accordance with the principles of a Curriculum for Excellence. The courses provide students with opportunities to engage in the learning experiences and to achieve the learning outcomes appropriate to their stage of development.

The aims of the courses are to provide opportunities for students to consolidate and to build upon literacy and English skills acquired in primary school; to develop their skills in reading, writing, talking and listening; to further their interest in personal reading and to respond imaginatively and critically to literature and to media texts.

In order that the needs of all are met, students are taught in broadly banded sets.

Curriculum The courses are made up on planned blocks/units of work which, in accordance with curriculum for Excellence guidelines, include for all students the elements of reading, writing, talking and listening.

Students are encouraged to engage actively in their learning so as to:• • • • • • • • • •

Write appropriately, effectively and accurately for a variety of purposes.

Read effectively, for a variety of purposes, functional texts of differing types.

Read closely shorter texts to appreciate aspects of the writer’s craft.

Read critically literary texts (prose, drama, poetry).

Watch and/or read critically media texts.

Listen attentively for a variety of purposes.

Participate effectively in class, group and paired discussion.

Prepare and deliver interesting individual presentations to an audience.

Work collaboratively in pairs or in groups when required to do so.

Develop their emotional and social well-being.

English department staff work closely with the School Librarian to devise programmes of user education and information retrieval and to ensure that students borrow from the well-stocked shelves books which are commensurate with their interests and reading level. Students are urged to keep records of personal reading. Visiting writers and special events, such as the Book fair, also encourage students’ interest and enthusiasm.

A Curriculum for Excellence advocates cooperative working among subject departments in the second school. English department staff seek actively, opportunities to include meaningful cross-curricular activities in their programmes of study.

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Assessment Students’ performance in classwork assignments of various types is assessed according to specific criteria. Students are encouraged to assess their own work and to engage in peer assessment so that they become more critically aware. Teachers, of course, assess students’ work, give constructive feedback indicating strengths, areas for improvement and next steps and record the results of their assessment on individual student profiles. Profiles are updated regularly throughout S1, S2 and S3 and each student’s assessed pieces are kept in a folio of work. Thus each student’s progress is monitored.

Homework Students are expected to complete homework tasks when appropriate. These may include: • • • • •

Required reading.

Preparation for writing, ie ideas/outline/first draft.

Redrafting, providing/expanding a written piece started in class.

Preparation for talk, notes.

Specific tasks in comprehension, spelling, punctuation and language use.

You can help! Parents’ help can be invaluable when: • • • •

Ensuring that homework is done.

Listening to their child reading aloud a completed written piece.

Helping with the preparation of notes and ideas for writing or discussion.

Encouraging their child to talk about books being read.

A good pocket-sized dictionary is extremely useful and makes an excellent birthday or Christmas present!

GEOGRAPHY The aims of the course are to give students a lasting interest in Geography and an opportunity to learn about the great variety of physical and human environments that exist in our world.

Students will gain an understanding of the different ways in which people have reacted to, modified and shaped their surroundings. Through first and second years, students will be able to develop a wide range of skills and competencies that are required in Geographical enquiry and are widely applicable in other contexts. Geography makes a major contribution to the students’ development of informed attitudes and the multi-disciplinary nature of the subject also requires students with extremely useful career and life skills. The various units of work in first and second years provide an excellent context for developing their own opinions.

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Units of work in first year are: • Weather and People.

• Winners and Losers.

• A World of Extremes.

Units of work in second year are: • • • • •

Let’s Visit Scotland.

The Restless Earth.

Our Endangered Planet.

GIS Detectives.

Kenya - A Land of Contrasts.

A variety of teaching strategies is used to create a positive experience. Where appropriate, individualised learning is fostered through the use of differentiated materials. An element of choice is included in units of work so students have the opportunity to pursue their own particular interests.

Homework is an integral part of the Geography courses and students are required to complete at least two homework assignments in each unit of work. There is also a major fieldwork exercise that is set in S2.

HISTORY The main aims of the History Department are to help students to understand both past and present by using primary and secondary sources, to encourage critical thinking about these sources (eg whether they are accurate, biased or limited in scope) and to enjoy History and foster a lifelong interest in the subject.

Students are encouraged to acquire and develop skills in both written and oral expression, working independently or with other students. History makes a major contribution to the development of informed attitudes and the enquiry based nature of the subject gives students extremely useful career and life skills.

Units of work in first year are: • History Detectives.

• The Plague of London.

• Boom and Bust (USA in 1920s and 1930s).

The units studied in S2 aim to build on the themes of history, such as change and progress studied in the S1 course.

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Units of work in second year are: • Old Edinburgh.

• The Slave Trade.

• The Wars of Independence.

A variety of teaching strategies is used to create a positive experience. Where appropriate, individualised learning is fostered through the use of differentiated materials. An element of choice is included in units of work so students have the opportunity to pursue their own particular interests.

Homework is an integral part of the History courses and students are required to complete at least two homework assignments in each unit of work.

Parental involvement in homework is encouraged, welcomed and expected. Any stimulus to historical thinking is important: • The use of historical sites on the internet.

• Television programmes on discovery and History channels.

• Oral history – interviews with elderly relatives.

• Objects – ration cards, photographs, medals.

• Diaries.

• Family visits to museums or places of historical interest.

All these activities play their part in helping to give students an understanding of the past and how the events have shaped the society in which we live. They provide enjoyment as well as promoting a lifelong interest in the subject.

HOME ECONOMICS The purpose of Home Economics is to equip young people with skills, which will allow them to become valuable members of society. The subject encapsulates many concepts and involves the study of a number of areas of knowledge through experiential learning - scientific, social, aesthetic, creative and technological.

The Home Economics course covers experiences and outcomes from Health and Wellbeing and Technologies as well as covering a number of different Literacy and Numeracy outcomes, some of which are undertaken as interdisciplinary projects covering the four capacities.

S1 The students study two topics.

Textile Technology Students are taught the basic principles of design then use this knowledge to design, manufacture and evaluate a textile item. During the manufacturing process they acquire basic skills in hand and machine sewing.

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Health and Food Technology Students are taught good hygienic practices and sound nutrition considering themselves and the members of the wider community in relation to future health. Students will also learn how to use kitchen equipment safely and hygienically, while being taught basic cookery skills in the preparation and cooking of recipes which reflect current dietary recommendations.

S2 During second year these basic skills and knowledge are expanded upon and students are encouraged to organise and manage their work more individually. The students study two topics.

Fashion and Textile Technology Students will design and make a simple fabric item, expanding on the basic practical skills taught in first year. They will also investigate fashion design and the design process.

Health and Food Technology Students complete two units of work. (a) Scottish Dietary Targets

Students will further develop their practical and organisational skills and will investigate the current dietary targets and how they affect health.

(b) Food and Culture Technology

The students will investigate and prepare recipes from other cultures, then using all the skills they have learnt, they will design, produce and evaluate a new food product using modern equipment.

In both S1 and S2 courses, students are continuously assessed for both their practical skills and theoretical knowledge and understanding. Homework tasks are given regularly as an integral and important part of each year’s work. We look forward to parents’ support in ensuring that homework is fully completed on time.

DEPARTMENT OF COMPUTING AND BUSINESS EDUCATION Information and Communications Technology courses have been designed using the Technology and Social Studies Experiences and Outcomes from the new Curriculum for Excellence.

Throughout the course the students will build upon ICT and enterprise skills that they have gained at primary school and at home.

Information and Communications Technology • Programming with Scratch.

• Internet & Internet Safety.

• Word Processing.

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S2 Information and Communications Technology • Computer Systems.

• Multimedia.

• Enterprise.

The courses will also incorporate elements of Numeracy, Literacy and Health and Well Being and will provide students with the opportunity for cross curricular work with other departments in the school.

Throughout the course, students will use a wide range of application packages providing them with transferable skills.

All students receive their own email address, which can be accessed from home as well as from school.

Other departments also have the opportunity to book one of the several ICT suites in school to use with their classes.

The responsible use of Internet and email are included in the course. If you want to find out more about safe internet use, visit www.thinkuknow.co.uk or www.safesocialnetworking.com.

MATHEMATICS S1 students are placed in set classes by taking into account the progress made by each student at primary school. There are two group of 5/6 sets.

The students will follow a course which covers all the Numeracy and Mathematics Outcomes from Curriculum for Excellence. Students will either start at Third or Fourth level depending on progress in primary school. As well as covering the above Outcomes, students will also cover some Literacy and Health and Wellbeing Outcomes (HWB).

The students will follow a teacher-led textbook course involving whole class, group and individual work. There will also be project work which the students will participate in mixed groups.

All classes cover every topic, with extension work being covered by the upper sets and the lower sets attempting support material. At every stage the students are pushed to make progress towards the next level.

Continuous assessment takes place throughout the year - with end of topic and unit tests, project work and self and peer evaluation. Students will continue to complete their Maths Passport throughout S1 and S2, which will become a record of the work they have undertaken.

In S2 there are three routes students can take:• Students who have completed the Fourth level at the end of S1 will start working towards their National 4 and National 5 examinations at the start of S2.

• Students who are working through the Fourth level at end of S1 will continue with this level at the start of S2 and start working towards National 4 or National 5 examinations by the January of S2.

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• Students who are still working through Third level by the end of S1 will complete and then start Fourth level and hopefully complete by the end of S2.

Homework for both years takes two forms. Generally, students will be asked to complete class work at home. At the end of every topic a formal homework will be set. We look to parents for support in ensuring that homework is completed and returned to school on time. A Homework Club runs one evening a week from 3.30 pm to 4.30 pm.

In both first and second year the course includes the following aspects of Mathematics:• Number, Money, Measurement.

• Shape, Position and Movement.

• Information Handling.

• Algebra.

• Probability and Statistics.

• Place of Mathematics in the World.

• Problem Solving and Enquiry.

MODERN LANGUAGES From August 2012, students will be studying French.

We follow the EXPO course (from Heinemann). This attractive, relevant and useful course places emphasis on the spoken language. (In line with Curriculum for Excellence, students will gain experience in listening for information, listening and talking with others, organising and using information, using knowledge about language, finding and using information, reading to appreciate other cultures, reading for interest and enjoyment.)

EXPO 1, the first year course book covers the following topics:• French and the French speaking world.

• Personal information – family, ages, birthdays, pets.

• Classroom language and equipment.

• Describing appearance and character, colours, • House and home.

• In town and buying a snack.

• Daily routine at home and school.

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• Leisure – sports, hobbies and holidays.

• Ordering food and drink.

We aim to interest students in the French speaking world, its general background, its people, customs, cultures etc. A variety of techniques including listening and talking, reading and writing assessments are used to assess students’ progress and to direct their work.

Homework is given at least once a week. Teachers should give students at least two nights in which to do it. No piece should take more than thirty minutes to complete. If two pieces are set, they should not take more than 45 minutes in total to complete. In addition to formal homework, students are encouraged to revise vocabulary and grammar on a regular basis by taking home their vocabulary and grammar jotters.

What can parents do to help their children at home? In addition to ensuring that homework is done, parents can also help their children at home by:• Making sure they have a bilingual dictionary (eg Collins Easy Learning French Dictionary).

• Encouraging them to watch any beginners’ language learning programmes about countries in which French is spoken.

• Asking to see jotters and homework diaries to keep track of what their children are doing in class.

Parents can also encourage students to:• Make enquiries about getting a French speaking pen pal.

• Use French at home as much as possible, including speaking to anyone else at home who has already studied the language.

• Acquire books/DVDs in French and English, for example, the ‘Astérix’ cartoon series.

• Check and see which of their favourite DVDs have French subtitles or soundtrack. Watching them with subtitles up in French or listening to the French soundtrack with English subtitles will improve reading an listening skills.

• Access web sites recommended by teachers in the department. Examples are:- www.bbc.co.uk/languages (a great starting point) - www.fr.yahoo.com (French version of Yahoo) - www.tfl.fr (watch the French news) - www.lequipe.fr (French sports news) - www.meteo.fr (check the weather in France) - www.rfi.fr (listen to Radio France International) - www.amazon.fr (French version of Amazon) - www.leparisien.fr (read a French newspaper)

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During the first several weeks of the year, students will complete a Foundation course before beginning the textbook. This reinforces vital grammar and basic language, while increasing an awareness of the relevant culture. Setting by ability will take place early in the year.

MODERN STUDIES Modern Studies deals with social, political and economic issues at local, national and international level. At all levels and in all topics students are encouraged to develop their own attitudes and opinions based on the knowledge they have gained from a variety of classroom activities. We aim to encourage discussion and debate from S1 to S6 of current issues and to support students in becoming effective contributors.

In S1, Modern Studies covers topics on ‘Scotland and China’, ‘The Mass Media’, ‘Human Rights’ and ‘Rich World, Poor World’.

In S2, it covers the topics of ‘USA’, ‘Crime and Punishment’, ‘Politics in Scotland’, ‘Terrorism’ and an investigation.

Students in all Modern Studies courses are encouraged to develop investigative, analytical and reporting skills.

MUSIC Music in first and second year is based on a series of 5/6 week units. All units in S1 are based around practical work and all students learn to play drum kit, tuned percussion, guitar and keyboard. All students learn to read music and singing is incorporated into some of the units. In S2, units are more topic based and incorporate the practical skills learned in S1 introducing more of an element of choice of instrument and more use of musical technology. Homework is issued weekly and completion is often a preparation to the following lesson. These short units are intended as a preparation for the wide range of music courses we offer in years three to six.

The school is visited by seven instrumental teachers who provide specialist tuition in woodwind, brass, string, percussion, guitar and piano. Further information about this provision is available from the Music Department.

The department offers a large variety of lunchtime and after school activities, including a Jazz Band, Concert Band, Ceilidh Band, Brass Band, a String Orchestra, Guitar Group, Percussion Group as well as S1/S2 groups on guitar, drums, singing and keyboard led by senior students. We also have a ‘Musical Theatre’ Group which meets after school and works towards a ‘musical’ production at the end of the year. Details of these activities will be given to students in the new term as times may vary from year to year.

PERSONAL AND SOCIAL EDUCATION PSE is concerned with the personal and social development of each student.

Every first year receives a 50 minute period of Personal and Social Education a week, delivered by their Guidance teacher.

The first year PSE programme covers a wide number of topics from an Introduction to high School and Health issues to Resilience and Road Safety.

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A main focus is our small group work where the class is split into three small groups for seven weeks.

This involves team building activities and highlights some of the learning outcomes we look at in first year including:• Understanding others’ feelings and reactions (3.04a) and • The importance of building positive relationships (3.05a).

As part of a Curriculum for Excellence, we cover a wide range of learning outcomes in the Health and Wellbeing category in PSE, focusing closely on students’ ability to:• Express feelings and talk about them (3.01a) • How to manage a variety of thoughts and emotions (3.02a) and • Knowing the people they can talk to for different types of support (3.03a).

The Health and Wellbeing experiences and outcomes concerned with mental, emotional, social and physical wellbeing are further developed in second year, as is the Planning for Choices and Change strand where we focus on Careers Education in preparation for subject choice where students choose their certificated courses for studying in third and fourth years. In second year we also expand our focus on the Relationships, sexual health and parenthood strand, when we begin teaching from the SHARE (Sexual, Health and Relationship Education) resource. Finally, we revisit the Substance Misuse strand in S3, this time not just looking at alcohol and smoking but also that the messages from popular culture surrounding them.

We are always happy to answer any questions you may have regarding our programme and are happy for parents/carers to arrange a time to come in and see our materials.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION Physical Education if offered for two single periods per week.

Activities include outdoor games, indoor games, racquet sports, gymnastics, dance, athletics, developing skills and fitness.

Most classes are taught in separate groupings of boys and girls and the time allocated to each activity is on a ‘block’ basis lasting seven weeks.

Lasswade High School Centre’s Physical Education Department encourages all parents to take an active interest in their child’s health and wellbeing. With parental co-operation and support, we hope to achieve extremely high standards of participation.

Students are expected to bring a change of clothing for PE. This should consist of:• • • •

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White t-shirt (sports – with the exception of Rugby).

Black shorts (sports).

Training Shoes (or boots for outdoor games).

Black jogging bottoms.

Lasswade High School

In the interests of Health and Safety, all items of jewellery must be removed and long hair tied back before taking part.

It is our aim to develop all students’ ability in physical education. It is our expectation that when students have an injury or illness that prevents full participation they can continue to be involved in the class by coaching, refereeing, scoring or measuring. In this way, we find that they continue to enjoy PE and keep up to date with the work. If students cannot participate fully they must bring their full PE kit and a note explaining why.

There are a variety of extra curricular activities for students to get involved in during lunchtimes and after school. Clubs vary from purely recreation to competitive teams to compete in interschool competitions and leagues.

Students will also have the opportunity to take part in the inter house competitions throughout the year.

Mrs Burge is Lasswade High School Centre’s Sports Co-ordinator and students can see her for details of all clubs.

RELIGIOUS, MORAL AND PHILOSOPHICAL EDUCATION Our courses have been developed to fulfil the experiences and outcomes for a Curriculum for Excellence.

The courses will cover Beliefs and Values. Students will study Christianity and selected World Religions, their practices and traditions.

In S1 we will focus on Philosophy, Ultimate questions, religious and moral values. Values such as justice, wisdom, integrity and compassion will be explored. Students will be encouraged to discuss, research and develop their own opinions. Literacy and Health and Wellbeing will also be key focuses throughout the courses.

Courses are delivered in an inspiring and lively way. Discussion, group work, active learning and resource based learning are all employed. Students should enjoy our courses and find them challenging.

We aim to promote the four key aims of Curriculum for Excellence by helping to produce, successful learns, effective contributors, confident individuals and responsible citizens.

Students will receive support and guidance throughout the course. Students will be given regular feedback on their progress and advice about how to make improvements. Assessment will be continual and take a variety of forms. One aspect of assessment is more formal in terms of national assessments.

A number of homework tasks will be set; these are often research tasks. Additionally, students will be expected to study at home in preparation for assessments. We welcome parent support with this.

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SCIENCE The general aims of the Science Department are that students should be assisted towards a better understanding of themselves and the world about them; an ability to solve problems and think scientifically and an awareness of the culture, which is science. They should also acquire practical skills in the handling of laboratory equipment and develop a safety conscious attitude in their working methods.

Students follow courses developed according to the outcomes and experiences set out in the Curriculum for Excellence guidelines.

In S1, the course consists of eight topics, each topic lasting usually for six to seven lessons. The ideas and concepts in each topic are revisited and expanded in subsequent topics. In second year a further nine topics are covered.

In S2 each topic falls into a category related to one of the three major Sciences; Physics, Chemistry and Biology.

It is extremely helpful if parents or carers can regularly check homework diaries to show that the work has been set, as this reassures the parent that their child is receiving regular homework. The homework does not always refer solely to the work which students have undertaken in class; often it is intended to encourage students to seek additional information on topics of scientific interest. This may mean that they have to consult the reference section of the school library or carry out simple experiments at home.

In addition, it helps us to encourage regular study habits at an early stage.

Parents or carers can also help by encouraging their children to watch television programs of scientific interest and there is a wealth of material available eg CD-ROMs, encyclopaedias and magazines.

These are useful sources of information, which can help with homework completion and also promote scientific awareness.

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6. PUPIL SUPPORT In Lasswade High School Centre all teachers have some responsibility for the care and welfare of students whom they teach. All students will find that they require support at some point in their school career and, for many of them, this will require no more than the ongoing advice from their subject teachers or careers advice from their Guidance teacher.

As a school we recognise however that, in order to benefit fully from their education, an increasing number of students will require additional support, at some point. The school has a team of specialist Pupil Support staff, both teachers and learning assistants, who work closely together to meet the needs of any student who requires additional support.

GUIDANCE Your son’s/daughter’s Guidance teacher is often the first person you will talk to regarding their progress.

Our main role is to ensure that each student is known personally and in some depth by at least one member of staff. We also aim to ensure that each student feels supported and secure within the school so that they can reach their full potential in all areas of school life. Guidance teachers work closely with home, subject teachers and other agencies, responding to your son’s/daughter’s needs, whether academic or personal.

To help us get to know your son/daughter, the Guidance teacher is reliant on a variety of different information. Although our first information usually comes from the primary school, we always welcome contact from home and see this as a vital partnership. To get to know your son/daughter once they have started high school, the Guidance teacher will teach them weekly for Personal & Social Education.

As the term progresses they will arrange to interview new students and will gather information from various school reports.

There are many options available to Guidance teachers in working with those students who require additional support. Beyond the day-to-day support that is offered, we have access to additional support in school from our other Pupil Support colleagues. We can, through discussion and agreement with the student and parent/carer refer some students for additional support from outside agencies.

Link Support for Guidance Teams Learning Teacher Mount Esk Susan Begbie and Sarah Wilkins Sarah Hall St Annes

James McQueen and Julie Connor Kathy Flynn St Leonards Alan Haggart and Margaret Muirhead Vicki Lyon Please do not hesitate to contact us, as we value the partnership we have with you.

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SUPPORT FOR LEARNING The Support for Learning Department works throughout the school with students of all levels of ability.

Many students experience difficulties in their learning at some time in their school career. Staff in the department provide help, advice and planned programmes of supported work for students. They work in cooperation with subject teachers, with small groups and with individual students. They make special arrangements for SQA exams where this is appropriate. They are a resource available to all students.

Some students experience a range of difficulties. Others, at all levels of ability, may have very specific difficulties. As a department we work with these students, with their parents, with the extended support team and with outside agencies where appropriate (such as the Educational Psychologist) to assess the needs of students and to establish specific targets for these students.

Parents who have any concerns about their child’s learning should contact the Head of Department, Mrs Carol Easton.

SUPPORT BASE We aim to provide help and support to students who have problems, other than learning difficulties that affect their education. We may support in class, provide one to one work or organise group work to meet the needs of the young people with whom we work. We know how important your role is and we would appreciate your involvement in planning a support programme.

The Support Base is also used to support students who may be anxious about returning to school after long term absence. Students can work in the Support Base on their return to school and be supported in gradually returning to full time attendance in classes. We can also provide short-term provision to support students who have experienced serious personal difficulties.

The Support Base is a short-term facility. The aim is to address the student’s difficulty with the minimum interruption to their education and time in class. We aim to build self reliance and responsibility, to help students to manage their individual situations as fully as possible, with minimum support. To achieve this we work closely with parents, teaching staff, Guidance, Support for Learning and outside agencies.

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ADDITIONAL SUPPORT FOR FIRST YEAR STUDENTS We recognise that the transition to secondary school may be an anxious time for many students and their parents. For this reason the school provides additional support for all first year students. All first year register classes are provided with assistance from two sixth year students, known as ‘Buddies’.

Their role is to befriend the younger students and to provide a link between them and the school staff.

These senior students may also provide support in the playground, in the lunchtime homework club (Club 10) or in classes.

All first year parents will have the opportunity to meet with their child’s Guidance teacher and Support for Learning staff in the first term, at an informal parents’ meeting. We would, however, encourage parents to contact the relevant Pupil Support staff at any time, should the need arise.

Most departments offer extensive support in their curriculum area. This takes place either at lunchtime or at the end of the school day. A list of extra classes is available on the school’s website.

CHILD PROTECTION As a school we have a range of duties and responsibilities for promoting the best interests of the students and young people we teach, including their right to be protected from harm and abuse. Abuse can be physical, sexual, emotional or neglectful in nature and has elements of exploitation by adults and the absence of consent from the student/young person. The school’s duties and responsibilities for this are set out in the Edinburgh and Lothian’s Child Protection Committee’s ‘Child Protection Procedures’.

In the rare circumstances where staff in school have significant concern that a child/young person has been, or is at risk of harm within their home or community, the school is required to pass information to the Police and/or Social Work Department and/or Medical Services who have a legal duty to investigate further. While we always work in an open manner in our contacts with parents/carers, there are occasionally some circumstances when it is not appropriate to inform them that information has been passed to the Police and/or Social Work Department. We are guided in these matters by the Edinburgh & Lothians Child Protection procedures. On such occasions the decision as to when and how parents/ carers are informed is the responsibility of Police and Social Work as part of their investigation.

Parents/carers should be assured that, in all cases, the welfare of the child is paramount.

Should you wish to discuss this further please contact the Head Teacher or the school’s designated member of staff for Child Protection, Mrs Wightman, Depute Head Teacher.

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7. ADMINISTRATIVE ITEMS AND NOTES FOR PARENTS These are meant to help you and us. Do keep them handy and refer to them when required. If in doubt – please RING US! Address Telephone Lasswade High School Centre Eskdale Drive

Bonnyrigg

Midlothian

EH19 2LA

School Office

0131 663 7171 School Fax

0131 663 6634 Community Education

0131 663 8170 Community Education Fax

0131 663 8170 Sports Centre

0131 660 1933 School E-mail lasswade_hs@midlothian.gov.uk School Web site

www.lasswade.info

ATTENDANCE Students can only make the most of their education if they attend school on a regular basis. As a parent/ carer, you can help by ensuring that your child attends regularly.

We realise, however, that there will be occasions when your child is unable to attend school. These guidelines will tell you what steps you should take on such occasions.

What should I do if I know my child is going to be absent, for example to see a doctor or orthodontist?

You should write to your child’s register teacher, giving the date(s) and the reason as soon as you know.

That way the school will know not to expect your child on that day.

What do I do if my child is going to be absent today, for example because he/she is unwell?

In this situation the onus is on you to contact the school. You should telephone the school before 9.00 am to explain the reason for absence and to let them know the likely length of this absence. You must provide the school with a letter, confirming the reason for absence, on the first day of the child’s return to school.

What if my child does not turn up at school?

If your child does not arrive for school and you have not contacted the office to explain why they are absent, the school will attempt to contact you through an automated attendance system known as ‘Truancy Call’. You will be required to return this call, giving a reason for your child’s absence, if you know about it. Any calls that the school makes about absence will be made after 10.00 am. Please ensure that the school has up to date contact details for you. Should your details change, for example a new mobile telephone number, please ensure that you pass on the information.

What do I do if I suspect truancy?

Please telephone the school immediately and arrange to speak to your child’s Guidance teacher.

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Irregular Attendance Parents have a duty for ensuring that their child attends school regularly. In cases of unsatisfactory attendance, Guidance staff will ask parents to come to school to discuss the problem and to seek their support. Should the problem persist, the Guidance teacher will ask an Education Welfare Officer to visit the home.

Lateness Persistent lateness is treated seriously. Students who arrive late must report to the school office to explain the circumstances, and the lateness is recorded. If the problem persists then parents will be invited to the school and the reasons for lateness investigated.

Holidays in Term Time The school, under the guidance of the Scottish Government and the Education Authority, actively discourages parents from withdrawing their child from school during term time for the purpose of family holidays. This is because of the disruption caused to the education of the individual child and the others in the child’s classes. Where parents feel that they have no option, the school may accept a request for holiday leave for up to two weeks in any one year. For a request of any more than two weeks, the parent must apply in writing to the Head of Schools. All requests must be made in advance of the holiday. Other than in exceptional circumstances, such absences are recorded as unapproved leave.

Truancy Call The school operates an Automatic Communication System, that will contact you directly if your child is marked absent at registration. This will ensure that the reason for the absence is known as soon as possible and alert you if your child is not in school when they should be. Post-registration absences can also be detected and reported to you.

Should you child be absent for medical reasons, you should contact the school as soon as possible on the first day of the absence to confirm the reason and likely duration of the absence. (See Attendance procedures set out above.)

To allow you to familiarise yourself with this system, a special local rate telephone number 0845 225 0201 has been set up, which you may wish to call.

Your child will be automatically included on the system, however, if you have any concerns, please contact the Head Teacher to discuss this further.

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BOOKS AND EQUIPMENT It is essential that all books and equipment are looked after very carefully and we ask parents to be vigilant and see that students do so. Books and equipment are very expensive and the costs increase yearly.

Students should provide a strong container for books. If books or equipment are damaged or lost then students will be asked to pay for the cost of their replacement.

BUS PERMITS Bus permits are issued to all Loanhead and certain other students living more than three miles from the school. Consideration may also be given to requests for assistance with travel in exceptional circumstances eg where the road between home and school is deemed dangerous by the Authority, and where there is no public transport available. These are provided and paid for by the Education Authority and will be withdrawn if the conditions of issue are abused ie they must be only used for travel to and from school and at no other time. Grace and Favour applications are not considered until October, depending on the level of applications and seats available. There is an annual £200.00 (pro rata) charge for Grace and Favour passes and payment will be required before a pass is issued. Finally, the bus permit will be withdrawn from any student behaving on a school bus in a manner other than that in which he/she would be required to behave in school.

Active Travel At Lasswade High School Centre, we actively promote safe, green travel to our students. This contributes to our Curriculum for Excellence criteria of responsible citizens and effective contributors.

We are also an Eco School and therefore encourage students to travel in the most eco-friendly way possible. Congestion caused by private vehicles parking in the school zone results in various dangerous manoeuvres – reversing, parking on pavements etc and reduces visibility for students crossing. As we have vast numbers of students that are entering/existing school at the same time – congestion is therefore a potential road safety danger.

Walking/cycling to school is an obvious healthy choice for students. It is also sociable, teaches valuable road safety skills and reduces carbon emissions. We would also like to ask that if you are entitled to a school bus service, you use it. These measures help with our ultimate aim of reducing the number of cars travelling to our school.

In our recent travel surveys, a quarter of students came to school by car – we want to see a reduction in this figure by the time of our next annual survey. We do understand that occasionally it may be necessary to come by car – perhaps carrying large instruments, ski equipment etc. We would however ask parents/carers, under normal circumstances, to always refrain from entering the school car park and suggest, if it is essential to travel by car, that one of the recommended car parking areas is used as shown on the Drop Off Points, allowing students a short healthy walk to school.

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RECOMMENDED Drop Off Points

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CAFETERIA Our modernised kitchen offers an excellent cafeteria service in congenial surroundings, offering a wide choice of courses, catering for all tastes. Students select their own dishes and pay at the desk on a daily basis. The present charge for a two course value meal is £1.80.

Cashless School Meals In common with many schools across the UK, students use a Smartcard instead of cash to make all food purchases.

The cards will have to be credited with money prior to use. To enable students to do this, there are ‘top up’ units located in and around the dining area where students can deposit cash to charge their card.

The ‘top up’ units accept £2, £1, 50p, 20p and 10p coins. Parents can also make bigger payments by cheque direct to the school office, perhaps to cover a week at a time. Cheques should be made payable to Midlothian Council. Students can also use this system to pre order meals.

The Council proposes to make it easy for parents to credit money to their children’s cards in a number of ways. It may also be possible for parents to make payment over the Internet or by more traditional direct debit or standing order types of arrangement. These facilities are not available at the moment.

In our cashless cafeteria, a non-meat choice should be available throughout the lunch service period. If this choice is not suitable, other arrangements can be made through our school office and the Catering Manager. If your child requires a special diet on medical grounds, it would be appreciated if a copy of any diet could be supplied to the school.

Under the Education Committee’s policy, children in attendance at schools under the management of the Authority are entitled to free school meals if their parents are in receipt of Income Support from the Department of Social Security. Children attending certain special schools where eating skills and the midday meal are part of the educational programme also receive free meals. No other children are eligible for free school meals.

A seated area is also available for the consumption of packed lunches.

Further information and an application form can be obtained from the school or from the Education Office, Greenhall Centre, Gowkshill, Gorebridge, EH23 4PE.

CAREERS PLANNING AND ADVICE A considerable amount of careers advice is available from Mrs Wightman and the Guidance Staff and an important section in the Library is devoted to Careers Information and Advice. We are well supported by the local Careers Service (Skills Development Scotland) who are based at:20 Croft Street Dalkeith EH22 3BA Telephone 0131 663 7287

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Students can access advice on career planning through the Skills Development Scotland website ‘My World of Work’. Careers advisers are available as students progress through the school should they require more specialised support and guidance on career planning.

CLOTHING AND POLICY ON SCHOOL DRESS In August 2004, following consultation with students, parents and staff, Lasswade High School Centre introduced a new school uniform. All students wear a white shirt, school tie, black skirt/trousers (not jeans) and black shoes or boots (not trainers).

There are a number of optional garments available with the school logo on them.

The optional garments are available by ordering from Lasswade High School Sports Centre and forms are available from the school. School uniform can be ordered on-line. Go to www.lasswade.info and follow the uniform link on the left hand list.

To maintain high standards of appearance, the following will not be acceptable:• • • • • •

Hats (unless by prior arrangement for students with a medical condition or on religious grounds).

Extremes of hair style/colour.

Jewellery in Physical Education is unsafe and should be removed.

Any form of body jewellery is inappropriate.

Showy fashion belts are inappropriate as are skimpy garments.

Outdoor clothing with inappropriate designs or logos.

Outdoor clothing should be removed when students are in class.

Clothing Grants The Authority operates a scheme of clothing grants to assist parents/carers in ensuring that a student is sufficiently and suitably clad to take full advantage of the education provided. Families in receipt of:• Income Support (with Child Tax Credit) • Income-based Job Seeker’s Allowance • Child Tax Credit only (with annual income of less than £15,860) (Incapacity Benefit or Employment and Support Allowance included) • Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 or • Child Tax Credit and Working Tax Credit (with an annual income less than £6,420) will automatically qualify for such a scheme. Parents/carers making such a claim will need to provide TC602 for the current year.

Application Forms and Information Notes are available from the school office or by contacting the Education Division by writing to Midlothian Council, Education Division, School Clothing Grants, Fairfield House, 8 Lothian Road, Dalkeith, EH22 3ZG.

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EDUCATION MAINTENANCE ALLOWANCE What is EMA? EMA is a weekly payment worth up to £30 for students who are aged 16 and planning to continue in post-compulsory education. Payments are made direct to the student’s bank account.

Students are entitled to an EMA if they have reached school leaving age, are on non-advanced further education courses (up to SVQ level 3) in fifth year at schools and Further Education colleges and the household income is £22,403 or below (dependent on the number of dependent children in the household).

Students applying and who qualify for EMA for the first time in 2011/2012 will be awarded a weekly payment depending on the total taxable household income and sibling(s) in full time education.

Students born between 1 March 1993 and 28 February 1997 are eligible for an EMA. Also, students of 16 years of age or over before 30 September 2012 may be eligible for an EMA from the beginning of the school term. If a student’s 16th birthday falls between 1 October 2012 and 28 February 2013, then they may be eligible for an EMA from January 2013.

You can ask any of the following about EMA: • • • • • •

Careers teacher.

Guidance teacher.

Local college student support services.

Local council education department.

Website: www.emascotland.com.

Email: studentsupport@scotland.gov.uk.

COMPLAINTS Parents and schools separately can do a great deal to assist children’s educational development; together they can achieve even more. We will keep you informed of your child’s progress and we will deal confidentially with any information that will help us in planning her/his education. We will keep you informed of our policies and procedures and will consult you whenever significant change is contemplated. We rely on your support and welcome your comments on the school.

1.

If you are concerned about … … a particular aspect of our work, please arrange an appointment to discuss the matter with the Head Teacher in the first instance. Where appropriate, the Head Teacher may nominate another senior member of staff to act on his behalf. The Head Teacher will listen carefully to what you have to say, establishing clearly the issue(s) of concern and, if appropriate, provide you with any relevant information. In some cases, your concerns can be dealt with immediately; other matters may require more extended investigation. In any event, the Head Teacher will notify you, normally within five working days, of the school’s response. It is anticipated that, in most cases, the above steps will result in a satisfactory solution for all concerned.

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2. If you are dissatisfied with the school’s response … … please notify the Head Teacher that you wish to pursue the matter further. He will review the proposed action or notify you of the appropriate officer of the Education Authority whom you should contact (see Education Department - Useful Addresses on page 57). Contact the named officer by telephone or by letter at Education Division headquarters. The officer will investigate the matter and endeavour to resolve any difficulties. He/she will report the outcome to you, normally within five working days of being contacted.

3.

Nearly all matters of concern are resolved through the above procedures. If you remain dissatisfied, please contact again the officer involved at stage 2; he/she will review the situation and/or indicate what other avenues are open to you.

4. In all cases, final appeal can be sought through the Chief Executive’s office.

DISCIPLINE All students have the right to an atmosphere and conditions where learning can take place. Students and teachers should expect to be treated with mutual respect and courtesy.

All staff are under clear instructions never to accept persistent or serious indiscipline. Where this occurs, they will refer the student to a senior member of staff - the main object being: (i) to emphasise the serious view we take of misbehaviour and (ii) to allow the rest of the class to get on with their work.

A letter will be sent to the parents informing them that a formal warning has been given. Any subsequent indiscipline will normally result in suspension of the student. Readmission will only be accepted if adequate assurances are given about future behaviour.

Punishment exercises are also used as an intermediate approach and these should be signed by the parents/carers to make sure that they are aware of the problem. Detention after school is also used as a sanction.

Codes of Conduct are issued to all students each session. These are produced on the following two pages for your information.

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LASSWADE HIGH SCHOOL CENTRE CODE OF CONDUCT Our Belief At Lasswade High School Centre we believe in strong positive relationships within our school and community. Positive relationships allow everyone to achieve and do their best in school.

Values • Respect for self.

• Respect for others.

• Respect for our environment.

Rights and Responsibilities • • • •

We all have the right and responsibility to: Feel safe at school and help others to feel safe and secure.

Learn to the best of our ability and help others to learn to the best of their ability.

Be treated with fairness and respect and treat others with fairness and respect.

CORRECTION CODE As part of our drive to improve Literacy, we have introduced a standardised Correction Code which will be displayed in teaching areas and used across the school. We are also highlighting certain aspects of language on a regular basis in order to promote Literacy skills.

LEARNING CHARTER At Lasswade High School Centre we believe that learning is a partnership between students, teachers and parents/carers. Staff, students and parents/carers worked together to produce the Learning Charter which is displayed in each teaching area. The Charter highlights the rights and responsibilities each of us has in promoting successful learning.

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EDUCATION AND CHILDREN’S SERVICES DIVISION USEFUL ADDRESSES AND TELEPHONE NUMBERS Based at Midlothian House, Buccleuch Street, Dalkeith, EH22 1DJ Chief Executive

Kenneth Lawrie

0131 271 3002

Based at Education Department, Fairfield House, 8 Lothian Road, Dalkeith, EH22 3ZG Director, Education and Children’s Services Head of Education (Acting) Education Officer, Lasswade High School Centre Head of Children and Families Additional Support Needs Officer Community Learning & Development Education Welfare Service Worker Placing Requests, and Primary School Swimming Programme Parent Councils Free Meals and Clothing Grants Education Maintenance Allowance, FE Bursaries and Higher School Allowance School Lets Principal Education Psychologist Probationer Teachers Fieldwork Group Manager Children and Families

Don Ledingham Sheena Dawe Alan Wait Mary Smith Susan Flynn Anne McConaghy Rhona Panton

0131 271 3718 0131 271 3719 0131 271 3724 0131 271 3418 0131 271 3689 0131 271 3708 0131 271 3961

Fiona Campbell Kevin McGuire Terri Smith

0131 271 3733 0131 271 3727 0131 271 3728

Gail Robertson Mhairi McLennan 0131 271 6696 Elaine Napier Christine Schaffer

0131 271 3730 0131 271 3705

Debbie Hunter Norman Catto

0131 561 5453 0131 561 5263

Paul Jacobs Patsy Bruce

0131 270 5743 0131 270 5660

0131 271 3722 0131 271 3606

Based at Commercial Services, Bonnyrigg Transport Officer FM Manager Based at TOPS Service, 208 Main Street, Pathhead Inclusive Services Manager English as a Additional Language

Department of Community Health and Child Care, East and Midlothian NHS Trust Musselburgh Primary Care Centre Inveresk Road, Musselburgh, EH21 7BP

0131 440 4123

0131 556 8400

Scottish Government (Education) Victoria Quay, Edinburgh EH6 6QQ

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EMPLOYMENT OF CHILDREN Employment of school students, outwith school time, is permissible only at a certain age and for stated times each day. Employers must apply to the Head Teacher for permission to employ students. The necessary application forms can be obtained from the school. Any employer who does not observe this procedure may be reported to the police. Please fill in the necessary form - it is for your child’s protection. Please note that employment before school, for example for a paper round, will not be accepted as an excuse for lateness.

Current legislation puts the following restrictions in place: • Students under the minimum school leaving age are limited to working 12 hours per week.

• Within this limit, the daily limits in term time are - 2 hours per school day, 2 hours on a Sunday and 8 hours (over 15 years of age) or 5 hours (under 15 years of age) on a Saturday.

• No child may be employed less than 13 years of age.

During school holidays, the maximum working hours are: • • 25 hours per week if they are between 13 or 14 years old.

• 35 hours per week if they are 15 years old.

• At least 2 weeks per year must be free from work during school holidays.

ENROLMENT Normally students due to transfer to secondary education at the end of the session will be automatically enrolled in the district secondary school (except where a placing request has been submitted for an alternative school). All parents of P7 students are invited to visit and have of a tour of the school on Monday 7 December 2009 and meet some staff and students. If parents wish to discuss matters more confidentially, individual meetings can be made with Mr Jaster or another senior member of staff. This can be done at any time by appointment or directly at Mr Jaster’s ‘surgery’ on Monday evenings. It should be noted that requests for admission of non-district students to the new S1 should be made in writing to the Head of Schools, Fairfield House, 8 Lothian Road, Dalkeith, EH22 3ZG. For other years, requests should be made to Depute, Mrs Wightman.

EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES An important aspect of education is participation in activities which are not part of timetabled curriculum, although some may stem from subjects in that curriculum, such as Physical Education and Music. A broad programme of Clubs and other interest-based activities is offered to our young people.

Amongst others, there are various sports clubs like basketball and table tennis as well as the more usual football teams, rugby teams and athletic events. There are strong music and drama traditions within the school with regular concerts and performances. Many teachers offer the facilities of their departments at various times, such as lunchtime, for students to develop their interest.

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All students are encouraged to take part in these voluntary activities and none will be refused if places and instructors are available. Do encourage your youngsters to take part in something; he or she does not need to excel, only to enjoy himself or herself. Many of the following activities will be available others may be provided if demand is there.

Amnesty International Golf Athletics Guitar Group Badminton Gymnastics Basketball Mathematics Brass/Wind Band Orchestra Chess Performing Arts

Choirs

Rugby (girls and boys) Drama School Shows Environment/Eco Group Snowsports Fitness Swimming

Football (girls and boys)

Trampolining Some of these activities are already part of the normal school physical education programme, but the resources provided in the Sports Complex allow for an extension and amplification of these after school and in the evening as part of our community education programme. The pattern of activities varies from time to time depending on the changing expertise and interests of staff and students. Parents are encouraged to volunteer their services to run activities in collaboration with the school staff.

Many Lasswade students have achieved recognition at Regional and National levels both in school teams and as individual representatives. For example; • Lasswade football teams have won the Scottish Under-15 Shield and were runners up in the Scottish Under-18. Several players represent Midlothian in their age groups and others have gone on to play for Senior Clubs both in Scotland and the English Premiership. Several Lasswade boys have been capped for Scotland.

• Lasswade students are representing Edinburgh District in rugby at Under-15 and Under-18 age levels with one player who played for Scotland at Under-18 level. In 2011 the seniors reached the final of the Bowl for the second time and the Under-16 level the semi-final. In 2012 Lasswade under !6s won the SRU Bowl.

• Our school band performed on Dutch television during their tour of the Netherlands.

• Our string orchestra and recorder groups have played specially commissioned works with the Dalkeith Symphony Orchestra in several recent concerts and students have performed at the Millennium Dome and at every Midlothian Festival of Music.

• Students have represented Scotland in Boys’ Basketball, the Scottish National Karate Under-21 squad and Cross-country.

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• We currently have two students representing Scotland in athletics.

• Lasswade have won the Midlothian Golf Championship and two boys represented Midlothian at the Scottish Championships winning the Team Event and the Junior Event.

• A senior boy was runner-up at the European Archery Competition - he was a previous Junior World Champion.

• Graeme Randall, a former World Judo Champion, is a former student of Lasswade High School Centre.

• Sean Fraser won bronze medal in the swimming at the 2008 Beijing Paralympics and was a silver medallist at the Delhi 2010 Commonwealth Games. He represented Great Britain in London 2012.

• Peter Wright the Rugby Commentator for Radio Scotland and former British Lion is a former student.

• Two current students Iain Rose and Jennifer Henderson are Scotland squad swimmers.

FOREIGN TRAVEL In the course of their time at Lasswade High School Centre, students will have a number of opportunities to participate in visits abroad. Guidelines on educational visits is available at http://outdoorlearning. mgfl.net/?page_id=252.

Trips that have been regular features include: • Geography Field Studies in France, Italy, Germany, Iceland, Austria and Switzerland.

• Ski trips to various countries for all interested skiers.

• Language based visits to Germany and France.

• History visit to the Trenches of the First World War. • New York.

• Beijing PRC • Shanghai PRC

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FRIENDSHIP LINK WITH CHINESE SCHOOL During the October 2009 holiday Depute Head Teachers Colin and Rosemary Mitchell visited Tianlin No 3 Middle School in Shanghai in the Peoples Republic of China. Tianlin and Lasswade High School Centre signed a Friendship Agreement in 2004. This was the first time staff from Lasswade High School Centre had made an official visit to the Chinese school. Since then, a group from Lasswade High School Centre visited Shanghai in October 2010 and again in October 2012. In May 2011, students and staff from Shanghai visited Lasswade High School Centre for the first time.

Plans for the future of the twinning arrangement include a placement for Chinese teachers in Lasswade High School Centre. As well as visiting the school, a compelling mix of ancient culture and ultra modern, plans will be made for a return visit from Chinese students.

MANDARIN IN LASSWADE We are fortunate this year in having a Mandarin teacher for the first time. Miss Chin-Yu Wang, who is from Taiwan, is teaching Mandarin Chinese to students in S1 and S2. She is also teaching aspects of Chinese culture, food and the arts.

FREE SCHOOL MEALS The Authority operates a scheme whereby students attending the school are entitled to Free School Meals if their parents/carers are in receipt of:• Income Support (with Child Tax Credit) • Income-based Job Seeker’s Allowance • Child Tax Credit only (with annual income of less than £16,190) (Incapacity Benefit or Employment and Support Allowance included) • Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 or • Child Tax Credit and Working Tax Credit (with an annual income less than £6,420) will automatically qualify for such a scheme. Parents/carers making such a claim will need to provide TC602 for the current year.

Application Forms and Information Notes are available from the school office or by contacting the Education Division by writing to Midlothian Council, Education Division, School Clothing Grants, Fairfield House, 8 Lothian Road, Dalkeith, EH22 3ZG.

FUND RAISING From time to time we shall ask your support for various fund-raising activities. We consider this not only a way to provide extra money for the school but also a way for the students and the community to contribute to the various charities. The sixth year students run the Charities Committee. All the groups and projects supported have been very worthwhile and we welcome as much support as parents and families can give us. The Charities Committee of 2011-2012 raised over £8,000 and supported such worthwhile charities as Water Aid, The Poppy Appeal and Breakthrough Breast Cancer. This included £2,500 donated to Breast Cancer at the Western General Hospital. Lasswade High School Centre is now on the ‘Supporters’ Wall’.

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HEALTH AND SAFETY The Education Department has prepared a series of statements of safety policy for all areas of its responsibility in accordance with the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974. The school staff are fully instructed in their responsibilities in this respect and safety regulations apply to all aspects of school life, both on and off the premises. It is expected that students will behave responsibly and comply with all safety requirements. The support of parents in promoting good practice in health and safety matters is of great importance to the school.

In the light of the Cullen Report, a programme for improving school security and risk management has been undertaken. All Midlothian schools have been fitted with access control systems.

HOMEWORK AND STUDY Homework is an important aspect of a student’s education as it allows the curriculum to be extended and enhanced and the student’s understanding to be improved.

All students will be given homework regularly and no parent should be satisfied with their youngster’s report that he or she has no homework.

Many departments set written work, which must be done at the time stated and done well. If the student does not conform, we shall tell you. Regular homework not only reinforces and supplements the work of the class but also helps the learner to develop independent study habits essential to success in the senior school and tertiary education.

Written work is only one aspect of homework. Revision and consolidation, on a regular basis, of work done in the classroom is also expected of all students and the parent should ensure that this aspect of homework is carried out regularly and effectively.

To assist students in achieving these aims, a Lasswade High School Centre Diary/Planner is issued to every student for recording homework given and for noting other important matters. The diary also provides advice to students on the planning of their weekly homework and details of the specific expectations of each subject.

Please ensure that it is used properly and inspect it regularly.

All students have the opportunity to study in school if that would be convenient to them. The Library hours are from 8.00 am - 1.05 pm and 1.50 pm - 4.15 pm (Monday to Thursday) and 8.00 am – 12.45 pm (Friday), with additional evening openings on Wednesdays until 7.00 pm, during term time. These sessions have staff and/or senior students on hand to support your son/daughter if required.

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Homework Club (Club 10) Club 10 runs every lunchtime in C10 from 1.25 pm – 1.45 pm and is open to all S1 and S2 students.

The aim of the Club is to provide a place where students can get support with homework, play board games or simply socialise in a quiet area with their friends.

It is staffed by Guidance, Support for Learning and Buddies.

Study Support Study Support classes are an invaluable asset at Lasswade High School Centre. They provide backup for students in almost every academic subject. Teachers give of their own time to offer classes to those students who wish to maximise their academic potential. Each year a programme of classes on offer, from S1 to S6, is published.

HOUSE COMPETITIONS At Lasswade students are allocated to one of four Houses: • MK Mount Esk • SA St Annes • SL St Leonards The register class shows to which House a student belongs - for example, in the first year it could be 1MK1, 1SA2 or 1SL1. House Competitions, for which House Points are awarded, are organised at different times during the year in Home Economics, English, Mathematics, Modern Languages and in a variety of sports including cross-country running and athletics. Senior House Captains are appointed to co-ordinate teams for these events.

PARENT COUNCIL The Scottish Schools (Parental Involvement) Act 2006 has recognised the vital role that parents play in supporting their children’s learning and aims to help parents be:• Involved in their child’s education and learning.

• Welcomed as an active participant in the life of the school.

• Encouraged to express their views on school education generally.

All parents/carers attending Lasswade High School Centre are automatically members of the Lasswade High School Centre Parent Forum. A smaller representative group, the Lasswade High School Centre Parent Council will be selected annually at the Annual General Parents’ Meeting in October.

Click on the Parent Council link with the school website, www.lasswade.info, for more information.

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MEDICAL CARE When a child is taken ill or has an accident in school, parents/carers are contacted and asked to accompany their child home or to their own doctor. Arrangements are made to care for the child until contact is made with home. It is helpful, in these circumstances, if telephone numbers of relatives or friends can be provided to assist should we be unable to contact parents/carers in the first instance. In an emergency the ambulance service will be called and the parent or emergency contact telephoned.

Students should not be sent to school when they are obviously unwell. While the school has appointed a Welfare Auxiliary, it must be understood that she does not have formal medical training and is only there to provide basic first aid and to care for students until parents/carers are contacted.

It is important that the school is informed of any medical problems affecting students so that plans can be put in place to meet their needs.

Administration of Medication There is no requirement on school staff to administer medication of any kind to any students. Parents are asked, where possible, to ensure that any routine medication is administered at home. Where students require regular medication to be administered or self-administered during the school day then parents must complete the relevant request forms, available from the school.

Should your child have a medical condition that may require essential treatment or emergency administration of medication, the following arrangements exist: 1. While school staff are under no obligation to administer medication to any child, they may, after a briefing, agree to administer medication in an emergency.

2. Schools will hold medication, under secure conditions and clearly marked, for use by your child.

3. You are responsible for supplying this medication to the Welfare Auxiliary. YOU SHOULD NOT SEND IT WITH YOUR CHILD. The responsibility for ensuring that all essential medicines are kept up to date rests with you as a parent.

4. All emergency or essential medication should be accompanied by a letter from a doctor, describing your child’s condition and outlining the treatment.

5. An individual Healthcare Plan will be drawn up, which you must sign. This plan will be reviewed annually.

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The School Health Service Throughout your child’s years at school, a team of specialist Health Service and Education Department staff will be seeing him/her from time to time to make sure that he/she benefits as much as possible from what the school has to offer. The School Health Service has direct links with those who carry out health checks on children before they start school.

Many different services are provided. The staff involved make every effort to work closely with parents and others who are caring for your child, both at school and in other branches of the Health Service. If a concern is raised by education staff, the child or the parent, School Health staff may become involved.

Naturally, if treatment is thought to be required, the child’s parents will be informed and consent requested.

Each school has a named School Nurse who visits, but is not based in school. She helps to support young people who have health problems and may offer confidential advice and information on general health matters.

Immunisations are offered to all students in S3 (Diphtheria, Tetanus and Polio) and HPV vaccinations although you may ask your family doctor to immunise the child if you prefer.

PARENTAL CONTACTS Parents are encouraged to regard Lasswade as a place where it is as easy and natural to go, just as it is to go to the shopping centre or the bank or the health centre. While teachers themselves are not always available to see parents because of their commitments in the classroom it is usually possible for a senior member of staff to be found to offer help and advice or to arrange a particular appointment.

Guidance Staff The first point of contact for parents is usually the student’s Guidance teacher. He or she will have the fullest information about the youngster’s progress or will be able to collect that information readily.

Guidance staff like to get to know parents and parents should feel free to discuss concerns with them promptly.

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Head Teacher’s Surgery Mr Jaster is available each Monday between 5.00 pm and 7.00 pm specifically to see parents or members of the community who wish to drop in. No appointment is required and parents do not need to feel that they must have a ‘reason’ for coming. If you have a concern or simply want some information please feel free to call in on a Monday evening.

Parents’ Meetings Formal meetings with parents are arranged either once or twice each year usually following ‘Reports to Parents’. The dates are listed in Chapter 8, Calendar of Events. These are very important meetings to parents - you may bring your son/daughter with you if you prefer to do so.

Parent Council The Parent Council allows parents and other adults to meet for social activities or to discuss issues of concern to them. The meetings are informal and are called throughout each session. Events have included a Burns’ Supper, Drugs Awareness, Health Promotion and Car Boot Sales.

PHOTOGRAPHS On several occasions during the school year, a student may have his/her photograph taken. This may be for display in the school, for inclusion in the Year Book, School Handbook or as a feature in the local newspapers. If a parent/carer would prefer that no photographs are taken for these purposes he/she should inform the Head Teacher of this in writing.

Photographs are also taken for administrative purposes and for National Entitlement cards and these are kept confidentially within the school and Authority.

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION AND ASSEMBLIES Throughout their schooling, students are introduced to religious issues, values and perspectives through courses provided by the Department of Religious, Moral & Philosophical Education. During morning registration, weekly assemblies are held for each House. During some weeks, specific Year Assemblies are held. Normally the Head Teacher leads the Assemblies with our School Chaplain, Mr G Duffin, participating approximately one week per month.

Parents who wish to exercise their right to withdraw their children from these classes and assemblies are asked to inform the school by letter. In such cases, facilities will be provided for private study - parents are asked to encourage their children to use this time to develop the understanding of their own beliefs or faith.

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ROLL In December 2012, the school roll was as follows: S1 S2

S3

S4

S5

S6

259 270 238 222 179 119

Total

1287

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SESSION DATES FOR 2013/14

2013 Term 1

Staff Resume Monday *19 August 2013

Students Resume Monday 26 August 2013

Autumn Holidays Friday 13 September 2013 Monday 16 September 2013

All Resume Tuesday 17 September 2013 Mid-term Holiday Students break Thursday 10 October 2013 Staff break Friday 11 October 2013

All Resume Monday 21 October 2013

Term Ends Friday 20 December 2013

2014 Term 2

All Resume Monday 6 January 2014 Mid-term Holiday Students break Thursday 6 February 2014 Staff break Friday 7 February 2014

All Resume Monday 17 February 2014

Term Ends Friday 4 April 2014

2014 Term 3

All Resume Tuesday 22 April 2014

May Day Monday 5 May 2014

All Resume Tuesday 6 May 2014

Victoria Day Monday *19 May 2014

Students Resume Tuesday 20 May 2014

Term Ends Friday 3 July 2014

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* In-service Days

TIMES OF THE SCHOOL DAY

Monday to Thursday Friday only Warning Bell 08.25 am Warning Bell Registration 08.30 am – 08.40 am Registration Period 1 08.40 am - 09.30 am Period 1 Period 2 09.30 am - 10.20 am Period 2 Interval 10.20 am - 10.35 am Interval Period 3 10.35 am - 11.25 am Period 3 Period 4 11.25 am - 12.15 pm Period 4 Period 5 12.15 pm - 13.05 pm Lunch 13.05 pm - 13.50 pm Period 6 13.50 pm - 14.40 pm Period 7 14.40 pm - 15.30 pm

08.25 am 08.30 am – 08.40 am 08.40 am - 09.30 am 09.30 am - 10.20 am 10.20 am - 10.35 am 10.35 am - 11.25 am 11.25 am - 12.15 pm

MONDAY

3 December S4 Prelims

24 December HOLIDAY 31 December HOLIDAY

17 December

HOLIDAY HOLIDAY

House Assembly - MK S5/S6 Parents' Evening 5.00 pm - 7.00 pm

S4 Prelims

26 November S4 Prelims

10 December

S4 Prelims

19 November P7 Open Evening for Parents Tour 6.00 pm/Meeting 7.00 pm

S5/S6 Senior Maths Challenge

S4-S6 Skills Scotland

MID TERM BREAK

House Assembly - MK

Higher Education Convention S5/S6 - 10.00 am - 12.15 pm S3 CAT Testing LEAPS Interviews S4 Geography Field Trip to Vogrie Assembly - S2 Girls Photographer's Catch Up Visit Snowsports Trip to Italy Parents' Evening 7.00 pm - 9.00 pm S1 Guidance and Support for Learning Evening Assembly (L&B Police) - MK

In-service (2)

TUESDAY

S4 Work Experience Week S5/S6 Intermediate 2 Hospitality Practical Practice Prelim House Assembly - MK Midlothian Schools Festival of Music

12 November S4 Work Experience Week HPV Vaccinations

8 October S1 Family Learning Evening 5.00 pm - 7.00 pm 15 October MID TERM BREAK 22 October In-service (CfE) Trip returns from Beijing/Shanghai 29 October 5 November Remembrance Assembly - MK

1 October HPV Vaccinations

24 September Assembly (L&B Police) - SL

17 September AUTUMN HOLIDAY

10 September House Assembly - MK Senior Prizegiving - 7.00 pm

3 September S3 CAT Testing

20 August In-service (1) Staff Resume 27 August Photographers' Visit S3-S6

TERM 1 WEDNESDAY

HOLIDAY HOLIDAY

House Asssembly - SL School Christmas Concert 7.00 pm - 9.00 pm

S4 Prelims

S4 Prelims

Remembrance Assembly - SL S4 Parents' Evening 5.00 pm - 7.00 pm S4 Work Experience Week S5/S6 Intermediate 2 Hospitality Practical Practice Prelim House Assembly - SL

MID TERM BREAK S5 World Challenge - Assembly

DAT (2) Trip to Cairngorm departs SAT (2)

S6 'Shore Thing' Beach Visit Yellowcraigs - full day S5/S6 Higher RMPS Trip to Eskdalemuir Samye Ling Buddhist Centre Achievement Assembly - S4-S6 Fire Drill - 3.00 pm House Assembly - SL

Students visit Lasswade Beijing Dulwich College Students return to Beijing

HOLIDAY HOLIDAY

S4 Prelims S5/S6 Tracking (Departments) Proud to be a Scot S4 Prelims SAT (3) S1 Tracking (Departments) Friday Night Music Project 7.00 pm - 9.30 pm (doors open 6.45 pm) Non Uniform Day

Beijing Dulwich College

S2 Tracking (Departments) S4 Work Experience Week DAT (4)

SATURDAY

Trip to Beijing/Shanghai departs Non Uniform Day - 'Wear It Pink' MID TERM BREAK S4 World Challenge - Assembly S4 Tracking (Departments) S1 - Gideons Assembly DAT (3)

S3 Tracking (Departments)

AUTUMN HOLIDAY

SAT (1)

FRIDAY Photographers' Visit S1 Group Photograph S6 DAT (1)

House Assembly - SL

Tomorrow's Driver Event S6 Brunton Theatre 12.00 pm - 3.00 pm S3 CAT Testing LEAPS Interviews

THURSDAY Students Resume

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Councillor Lisa Beattie 2.15 pm - 3.00 pm HOLIDAY HOLIDAY

House Assembly - SA

S4 Prelims

S4 Prelims

House Assembly - SA

S4 Work Experience Week

Remembrance Assembly - SA

House Assembly - SA S3 Geography Field Trip to Kelso MID TERM BREAK

Achievement Assembly - S1-S3

Assembly (L&B Police) - SA

LEAPS Interviews Adult Learning Open Day 2.00 pm - 8.00 pm House Assembly - SA S3 Biodiversity Survey 1.50 pm - 3.30 pm

In-service (CfE)

LASSWADE HIGH SCHOOL CENTRE - CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2012 - 2013

Trip returns from Cairngorm

SUNDAY

13/02/2013

Lasswade High School

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

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S2 Reports

HOLIDAY HOLIDAY

18 March S2 Parents' Evening 5.00 pm - 7.00 pm HPV Vaccinations 25 March HOLIDAY 1 April HOLIDAY

4 March

11 March

Senior Department Fair 5.00 pm - 7.00 pm

HOLIDAY

11 February HOLIDAY

18 February 25 February

S5/S6 Prelims House Assembly - MK P7 Maths/Science Challenge S5/S6 Reports

21 January S5/S6 Prelims 28 January 4 February P7 Maths/Science Challenge

TUESDAY

S5/S6 Prelims

MONDAY

14 January S5/S6 Prelims

7 January All Resume

TERM 2

S2 Coursing Better Late Than Dead On Time' Road Safety Show S1-S3 - pm HOLIDAY HOLIDAY

S1 Parents' Evening 5.00 pm - 7.00 pm

HOLIDAY

S5/S6 Prelims Snowsports Trip to Italy Parents' Evening 7.00 pm - 9.00 pm S5/S6 Prelims House Assemly - SA

WEDNESDAY

HOLIDAY HOLIDAY

Music Concert 7.00 pm - 9.00 pm

S1-S6 Dance Show 7.00 pm (rehearsals from 10:35 am)

Senior Coursing Strictly Lasswade' - 7.00 pm

S5/S6 Prelims House Assembly - SL S1/S2 Parents' Information Evening 7.00 pm - 8.30 pm S3/S4 Intermediate Maths Challenge P6/P7 In-service (3)

S5/S6 Prelims

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

HOLIDAY HOLIDAY

S1 Coursing SS Comic Relief - Red Nose Day SAT (4) Non Uniform Day TERM ENDS - 12.15 pm

DAT (6)

In-service (4) Authority

S5/S6 Prelims SIP Non Uniform Day

S4 Reports SAT S5/S6 Prelims

Snowsport Trip to Itlay departs

SATURDAY

Snowsport Trip returns from Italy

SUNDAY

Lasswade High School

MONDAY

Event to be approved

24 June

20 May In-service (5) 27 May 3 June 10 June New Timetable Music Department Show Technical Rehearsal 4.00 pm - 7.00 pm 17 June Junior Prizegiving - 7.00 pm

22 April 29 April 6 May 13 May

15 April S3 Exams

8 April S3 Exams

TERM 3 TUESDAY

Music Department Show Dress Rehearsal 4.00 pm - 7.00 pm

SQA Exams Commence

S3 Exams S3 Dip/Tet/Polio/Whooping Cough

S3 Exams

WEDNESDAY

Primary Induction Music Department Show 7.00 pm - 9.00 pm

S3 Parents' Evening 5.00 pm - 7.00 pm

S3 Exams

S3 Exams

THURSDAY

S1 Reports S6 Induction Primary Induction Music Department Show 7.00 pm - 9.00 pm S4 Home Economics Students visit to Royal Highland Show

S1/S2 Junior Maths Challenge

S3 Exams

S3 Exams

TERM ENDS 12.15 pm

S6 Induction SAT (8)

SAT (7)

FRIDAY S3 Exams Colin Beattie (MSP) 11.00 am - 12.00 pm S3 Exams SAT (5) DAT (7) S3 Reports SAT (6)

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

Lasswade High School

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