Birchgrove Comprehensive School Prospectus
Welcome Croeso
This prospectus is intended to give you a real flavour of the high standards of education and the wide range of opportunities, activities and experiences that are available to everyone at Birchgrove Comprehensive School. I hope that the pages that follow will convey the safe, caring and supportive environment that underpins our successful and improving school and illustrate why so many visitors are impressed with our learning community. They should also show that the available facilities, whether academic, sporting or the arts are second to none and play a significant part in creating a purposeful and attractive learning environment for teaching and learning. Above all, they are intended to demonstrate how we put our educational aims and beliefs into practice; how the governing body, staff and pupils work together with our partners to build a successful and improving school that all can be proud of, a school where high standards are not just encouraged but are expected for all. We want Birchgrove to be a school at the heart of its community, fit for the 21st Century with the very best resources and facilities. The next few years will see very important changes to the way in which young people are educated, not just in Swansea but across Wales; we are determined that Birchgrove will continue to flourish and provide the best possible educational opportunities to allow our pupils to learn and succeed, irrespective of ability.
Karen Holland Karen Holland, Headteacher
1 Birchgrove Comprehensive School, Swansea, Wales / Ysgol Gyfun Gellifedw, Abertawe, Cymru
Our Vision Ein gweledigaeth
•
To maximise every pupil’s academic potential in a safe, caring and supportive learning environment.
•
Through accelerated learning techniques, provide every pupil with a unique set of learning skills that will transfer into lifelong learning and employment.
•
To develop pupils’ social skills to raise their understanding through the provision of wide-ranging extra-curricular experiences.
•
To be at the heart of the learning community.
COME EQUIPPED TO LEARN ARRIVE ON TIME RESPECT EACH OTHER EDUCATE YOURSELF FOR LIFE
2 Birchgrove Comprehensive School, Swansea, Wales / Ysgol Gyfun Gellifedw, Abertawe, Cymru
Welcome to Birchgrove Comprehensive School Croeso i Ysgol Gyfun Gellifedw Situated at the entrance to the Swansea Valley, Birchgrove is a popular mixed 11-16 community school with 746 pupils. It is located in Birchgrove, just off junction 44 on the M4 motorway. The school was founded in 1989 and moved to its existing, purpose built site in 1990.
We are a true comprehensive school and consider ourselves to be fully inclusive, providing a rich and varied range of opportunities that improve and extend the knowledge and skills of all our pupils. Birchgrove Comprehensive School is a popular school taking in numerous preferred placements from out of catchment area schools every year. Parental questionnaires attributed this to three main reasons: • The overall high standards of educational provision and opportunity • High levels of academic achievement irrespective of ability • Very good discipline based on mutual respect and a positive learning ethos We are fortunate to accommodate a designated Special Teaching Facility or STF for pupils with moderate to severe learning difficulties on site. We also have significant resources for pupils with physical disabilities including wheelchairs. In addition the school has received national recognition and awards for a wide range of its educational developments. These include: Investors in People • Basic Skills Agency Quality Mark • Welsh Secondary Schools Award for Transition • Welsh Secondary Schools Award for Pupil Tracking & Monitoring • Sportsmarc Cymru • Discipline for Learning recognised School • Range of Media Studies Awards We are also represented locally in many inter school competitions and are fortunate to have achieved a high level of success in a range of genres. 3 Birchgrove Comprehensive School, Swansea, Wales / Ysgol Gyfun Gellifedw, Abertawe, Cymru
Our main strength however, is in the high quality teaching and learning experiences we offer our pupils. In Birchgrove the knowledge and understanding, experience and professionalism of our teaching and associate staff ensures total commitment to the development of our pupils.
Mrs S M Jenkins (left) Deputy Headteacher, Mrs K E Holland Headteacher (centre) Mr R Francis Deputy Headteacher (right)
4 Birchgrove Comprehensive School, Swansea, Wales / Ysgol Gyfun Gellifedw, Abertawe, Cymru
Facilities Cyfleusterau Birchgrove is an up to date secondary school in the City & County of Swansea. It is based in a purpose built, well maintained building. The main school building houses: •
50 classrooms all equipped with PC/broadband internet and TV access
•
Majority of classrooms with interactive whiteboard facilities
•
ICT suites refurbished in 2009 with state of the art equipment
•
Specialist art, drama and music facilities including sound-proofed practice rooms and recording studio
5 Birchgrove Comprehensive School, Swansea, Wales / Ysgol Gyfun Gellifedw, Abertawe, Cymru
•
Modern 4-court sports hall
•
Gymnasium
•
Fitness room
•
New £1 million pound, lottery funded playing fields
•
A learning resource centre with broadband access, a wide selection of books, videos and CD roms and materials designed to enhance pupil learning opportunities
6 Birchgrove Comprehensive School, Swansea, Wales / Ysgol Gyfun Gellifedw, Abertawe, Cymru
•
6 well equipped science laboratories
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5 Technology rooms with the latest computer guided equipment
•
Special Teaching Facility
•
All corridors and classrooms form part of the learning ethos of the school and are full of displays and pupils work.
7 Birchgrove Comprehensive School, Swansea, Wales / Ysgol Gyfun Gellifedw, Abertawe, Cymru
Transition Pontio We are very proud of our transition/liaison links with our local primary schools and recognise the importance of developing close links both academically and pastorally to ensure pupil continuity and progression across Key Stages. It is vital that pupils settle quickly into Birchgrove and feel safe and happy. To achieve this, our transition programme starts very early in the primary school and builds year on year as the pupils reach year 6 and the transition phase. Senior staff take pride in regular contact with our partner primaries and visit classrooms and assemblies to meet with prospective pupils. The Key Stage Manager links ensure pastoral and assessment information are transferred effectively. In conjunction with our partner schools the pupils, with professional guidance have made a transition DVD which is available to all prospective parents and is on the school website. Our key skills curriculum development programme ensures a continuum of work and teaching styles across the primary/secondary divide and regular teacher exchanges leads to a high degree of understanding. Pupils regularly attend a variety of subject based days in Birchgrove from Science to PE, all intended to raise the pupils’ familiarity and confidence in readiness for Year 7. Finally, parents and pupils attend a parents’ evening in June where they meet their new form teachers and receive helpful transition documentation. We pride ourselves on developing strong partnership arrangements with our parents.
ESTYN “Pastoral, academic and social links with primary schools are very good”
8 Birchgrove Comprehensive School, Swansea, Wales / Ysgol Gyfun Gellifedw, Abertawe, Cymru
How I settled into Birchgrove Comprehensive School Sut wnes i setlo yn Ysgol Gyfun Gellifedw “I’ve made a lot of new friends here and I am enjoying it here.” “Within a couple of days I felt fine, because all my teachers are kind and helpful and give you a map if you get lost” “At first we were really nervous and thought we would get lost a lot but the older pupils help a lot, so ask. They are great mentors and give us lots of good advice” “There are lots of new clubs like art, media and ICT and we get lots of support after school in all subjects if we need it.” “School dinners are delicious and unlike primary school you can eat what you want when you want.” “If you put a lot of effort into your work you will get merits. Every term people who have enough merits go on merit trips in each Key Stage. They are brilliant!”
Admission Arrangements Trefniadau Derbyn Disgyblion City & County of Swansea LEA controls the admission arrangements and distributes the admission procedure and parental preference form to Year 6 pupils early in the autumn term, to be returned by Mid December. The form is the same if you are attending the local secondary school or are making a preferred placement application, you will need to complete and sign the relevant section.
As a result of new legislation pupils who reside within the catchment area of the school no longer have an automatic right to attend that school unless a written application is made to the authority/school and only then if there is space. Admission or attendance of pupils at the feeder primary school does not provide automatic entry to the chosen secondary school.
Those children who live in the school’s catchment area, and whose parents have expressed a preference, will be offered places first.
9 Birchgrove Comprehensive School, Swansea, Wales / Ysgol Gyfun Gellifedw, Abertawe, Cymru
If the number of those pupils is greater than the standard admission number, pupils will be selected according to the following criteria which are listed in priority order. 1. Children recommended by the authorities SEN panel 2. Children with siblings (brothers or sisters) attending the school. 3. The distance from home to the school measured by the nearest available walking route.
Home/School Agreement Cytundeb Ysgol/Cartref Copies of our Home/School Agreement are available from the school and are signed as part of the transition process. We ask all parents to sign the agreement as it forms a key part to the strong links forged with home. It clearly outlines the expectations on all three parties i.e. the school, the pupil and the parents. It is our intention that it will lead to a good understanding of the joint responsibilities and lay the foundation for a successful partnership between parents and the school.
The School Curriculum Cwricwlwm yr Ysgol Our curriculum is designed to provide all pupils with a broad and balanced education. Its intention is to maximise the potential of all. The school strives to develop learning and teaching styles that promote positive attitudes to learning and the understanding and acquisition of new knowledge and skills. Each school year is organised into mixed ability form groups which initially form the teaching groups, but change over time as individual subjects set on ability. We also have an additional learning needs class in each year and a Special Teaching Facility for pupils with moderate to severe learning difficulties. We are highly confident that we can cater for all pupils across the full ability range. The timetable is arranged so that pupils are taught 5 lessons a day, each 1 hour long, four before lunch and one after lunch. This is in line with all schools in the East Side Partnership.
10 Birchgrove Comprehensive School, Swansea, Wales / Ysgol Gyfun Gellifedw, Abertawe, Cymru
Homework Gwaith Cartref Homework is an important element of the pupil’s education and is set on a regular basis in accordance with the published timetable. All pupils are issued with a school planner in which to record their homework. Parental support in supervising the completion of homework and checking their planner is actively encouraged.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9) Cyfnod Allweddol 3 (Blwyddyn 7-9) Excellent links with our primary schools allows us to build on the good foundation set them through the transitional planning process and its associated teaching and curriculum links. On entry in to year 7 pupils continue with the full range of national curriculum subjects and in addition will benefit from the skills based curriculum. We aim to give all pupils the necessary independent learning skills to fully access all aspects of the curriculum on offer and the subsequent 14-19 Key Stage 4 curriculum. At the end of this Key Stage all pupils will be assessed in the National Curriculum Subjects and assigned levels of attainment by their respective teachers.
11 Birchgrove Comprehensive School, Swansea, Wales / Ysgol Gyfun Gellifedw, Abertawe, Cymru
Key Stage 4 (Yrs 10&11) Cyfnod Allweddol 4 (Blwyddyn 10&11) All pupils will study the core subjects of English, Mathematics, Science, Welsh RE, PE and PHSE. As part of the 14-19 Learning Pathways they will then choose up to four other subjects from a wide range of options. These will include GCSE, applied GCSE, short course GCSE, vocational, ASDAN and work related/ apprenticeship type experiences. As the option pattern varies from year to year, parents and pupils will be notified of the full range of subjects available through the published option pattern in year 9. Throughout the curriculum emphasis on the acquisition of key skills is seen as vital to unlocking the full potential of your child. We aim for all our pupils to receive accreditation in Essential Skills Wales qualifications throughout both Key Stage 3 and 4.
The Welsh Baccalaureate Qualification The Welsh Baccalaureate Qualification is studied at Key Stage 4 during statutory subject lessons (PHSE; RE; Welsh) and on dedicated Welsh Baccalaureate Days. This qualification is equivalent to 4 GCSEs.
Mrs K E Holland Headteacher with Mr J Toghill Key Stage 4 Manager and Mr M Tucker Assistant Key Stage 4 Manager with KS4 pupils.
12 Birchgrove Comprehensive School, Swansea, Wales / Ysgol Gyfun Gellifedw, Abertawe, Cymru
Support and Guidance for our Pupils Cefnogaeth i’n Disgyblion Birchgrove has been nationally recognised for the high quality of care, guidance and support that we offer our pupils. We aim to provide a supportive and caring environment where individuals are encouraged to be successful and gain high levels of self esteem. Pastoral support is provided through the Faculty of Pupil Progress and Welfare. Comprising a Head of Faculty, a Key Stage 3 and a Key Stage 4 Manager who have overall responsibility for the academic progress and pastoral care of years 7-9 and 10-11 respectively. In addition there are three Assistant Key Stage Managers and form tutors who will progress up through the school with your child thus providing continuity of knowledge and understanding of their developmental needs. A range of associate staff with specific support roles complete the support structure, these include Behaviour/Attendance Manager, Educational Welfare Officer and Pastoral Manager. Child Protection issues are dealt with by the nominated Deputy Headteacher using the agreed procedures and policy.
13 Birchgrove Comprehensive School, Swansea, Wales / Ysgol Gyfun Gellifedw, Abertawe, Cymru
Extra Curricular Activities Gweithgareddau All-Gyrsiol Pupils are offered a wide variety of cross curricular activities to reinforce their learning and to develop their social skills. They form an essential part of the ethos of the school and pupils are actively encouraged to play a full part. Some notable examples are: KS3 Eisteddfod Inter House Sports Day Full range of sports teams Local, National and International sports tours Ski Trips Chess Club ICT Club Gym Club French Club Welsh Club Orchestra and various music groups and tuition Choir Drama productions Field trips Merit trips Educational visits both locally and abroad Residential courses ESTYN: Extra-curricular provision is very good. Pupils enhance their learning through these activities
Careers Gyrfaoedd Careers’ guidance is strongly developed in the school and is delivered as part of the PHSE programme to all pupils from year 7 onwards. The school has a good working relationship with Careers Wales West, who provide a professional careers advisor three days a week to work with pupils and parents on establishing appropriate learning and career pathways. In addition, cross curricular industry days allow pupils to experience different aspects of employment. We are particularly proud of our enterprise activities. The programme is supported by a well stocked careers library in school and all main post 16 providers are present at parents’ evenings. We are partners in the Swansea Guarantee and will ensure that all our pupils receive appropriate advice, guidance and support for future learning needs. 14 Birchgrove Comprehensive School, Swansea, Wales / Ysgol Gyfun Gellifedw, Abertawe, Cymru
Additional Learning Needs Provision Darpariaeth Anghenion Dysgu Ychwanegol Our Additional Learning Needs policy and practice are regularly revised to meet the requirements of the SEN code of practice in terms of identification, assessment and support for individual pupils. Our aim is to include pupils with additional learning needs as far as possible into mainstream classes and enter everyone for external examinations. We also provide smaller teaching groups where pupils can receive specialist attention to support their educational needs. Those pupils identified through assessment with special educational needs but not awarded a full statement benefit from a range of support including 1:1 learning support and various reading, literacy and numeracy recovery/booster programmes. We are supported by a range of external agencies as appropriate including the LEA Educational Psychologist and Behaviour Support teams. More able and talented pupils are provided for by the individual subjects which use a range of extension materials and projects to ensure the more able are catered for appropriately.
Special Teaching Facility Gwasanaeth dysgu arbennig At Birchgrove we are fully committed to an inclusive education; we cater for physically disabled, visually impaired and pupils with severe learning difficulties such as Down’s Syndrome. Learning Support Assistants accompany pupils from the STF into mainstream classes to allow access to the full curriculum. They are encouraged to play a full part in school life including social visits, productions and educational courses. Results in external examinations are outstanding!
ESTYN: Pupils with statements of SEN receive good teaching, care and support. Curricular provision for pupils with SEN is good. They have good support for integration into the full life of the school. Pupils of high ability make good progress because teachers ensure that pupils tackle work that both motivates and challenges them. 15 Birchgrove Comprehensive School, Swansea, Wales / Ysgol Gyfun Gellifedw, Abertawe, Cymru
PE & Sport at Birchgrove Ymarfer Corff a Chwaraeon yn Gellifedw
Building on their success and experience in representing school, many pupils go on to represent the county and every year some pupils achieve the highest accolade of representing their country. We currently have internationals in cricket, girls’ football, athletics and rugby.
In addition to our very full fixture list as a school we pride ourselves in allowing our pupils to experience different cultures and develop new sporting and social skills associated with playing sport abroad.
Birchgrove has an excellent reputation for the quality of our physical education programme. Through teams, training sessions and extensive inter-school competition, pupils have the opportunity to participate in a wide range of sports, including rugby (both male and female), football (male and female), athletics, basketball, cricket, gymnastics, netball, hockey, dance and aerobics to name but a few.
At Birchgrove pupils can follow a range of formal qualifications in sport ranging from the National Sports Leaders Award through to GCSE PE and OCR Sports Studies. Our facilities are excellent and include new lottery funded playing fields, multipurpose sports hall, gymnasium and fitness room. A range of extra-curricular activities are offered through the 5x60 Programme and these include:
Basketball Street Dance Rock Climbing Circuits
16 Birchgrove Comprehensive School, Swansea, Wales / Ysgol Gyfun Gellifedw, Abertawe, Cymru
Music Cerddoriaeth The music department is very much at the heart of the school. All pupils at Key Stage 3 are offered a wide range of musical opportunities through their timetabled lessons and an expert team of peripatetic teachers provide additional tuition on strings, woodwind, brass, drums and guitar. The department is well resourced with a key board room, three practice rooms, a recording room and main stage. Its pupils are heavily involved in concerts, school productions, Eisteddfodau and the wider community through our road shows.
Religious Education & Collective Worship Addysg Grefyddol a Gwasanaethau Crefyddol RE forms part of the core curriculum of all pupils’ education and is taught in accordance with national policies. The vast majority of Key Stage 4 pupils sit GCSE Short Course in Year 11, with a few candidates entered at full course. We hold daily acts of collective worship in the main hall where we emphasise moral values, mutual respect and good citizenship. Withdrawal from RE and assemblies is possible on written request to the Head teacher.
PHSE Addysg Bersonol a Chymdeithasol ac Iechyd PHSE is taught as a discrete subject that encompasses citizenship, health (including drugs & alcohol awareness and sex education), careers and environmental issues. In addition parts of the learning to learn curriculum are delivered through timetabled PHSE lessons. Cross curricular days on health, industry and learning support the holistic developmental needs of all pupils. In year 7 all new pupils as part of PHSE go through an induction programme specifically designed to aid their settling in and allay fears.
Equal Opportunities Cyfle Cyfartal The school is fully committed to a policy of equal opportunity regardless of age, gender, race, culture, social background or ability. 17 Birchgrove Comprehensive School, Swansea, Wales / Ysgol Gyfun Gellifedw, Abertawe, Cymru
Welsh Language Yr Iaith Gymraeg Birchgrove is committed to promoting Welsh as a second language and the development of Welsh ethos across the school, including bilingualism and the Curriculum Cymreig. The highly successful Welsh department offers residential courses at the Urdd camps in Glan Llyn and Llangrannog and takes educational visits to Cardiff and other places of interest in Wales. Every year we hold a very successful Eisteddfod for pupils in years 7 to 9 with a full complement of stage, academic and sporting competitions. The school supports bilingualism through use of bilingual signs throughout the school.
Sex Education Addysg Ryw The health PHSE/education programme incorporates sex education that is taught in a balanced way as agreed by the Governing Body. The main emphasis is on relationships and moral issues that will reflect the needs of the pupils as they develop over the key stages. The programme is supplemented by seminars provided by health service staff on the cross-curricular health day. Parents have the legal right to withdraw a child from these lessons if they apply in writing. Sex education taught within areas of the National Curriculum such as science, however, is compulsory.
Educational Visits Ymweliadau Addysgiadol Birchgrove offers a wide range of educational visits including residential study opportunities, activity weekends and cultural visits to enhance the curriculum and support social development and citizenship. Financial contributions, if any, are raised in line with the school’s Recharge Policy.
18 Birchgrove Comprehensive School, Swansea, Wales / Ysgol Gyfun Gellifedw, Abertawe, Cymru
Work Experience Profiad Gwaith At Key Stage 4 we endeavour to provide every pupil with an appropriate, relevant week’s work experience. All arrangements are made in partnership with Careers Wales West who support the school in ensuring risk assessments are undertaken prior to commencement of the work placement. Pupils are exposed to an outstanding variety and quality of experiences that help them to learn and develop new skills in preparation for life beyond the classroom. Pupils are accredited for Work Experience as part of The Welsh Baccalaureate Qualification. “My work experience took me to a hair salon in Llansamlet. I gained many skills during the week. I improved my communication skills and dealing with customers’ needs. My work experience will stay with me for life so it’s important to chose wisely and enjoy the week.” “I spent the week at a Chartered Accountants’ office. I was able to take part in different administration tasks. I learned many Key Skills and had a great insight into working life. I thoroughly enjoyed my time and would recommend a week of work experience to anyone.” “Tunisia was the destination for my two weeks’ work experience. I went with my coach and other athletes and helped set up and organise the training sessions. I thought it was an amazing opportunity, which I learned a lot from by working with a variety of ages and activities. I would definitely recommend going on work experience as it is a help for the future and great fun. “ “I was able to split my work experience between Penlan Leisure Centre and Talycopa Primary school. I think this was good experience for me because it really opened my eyes to the world of work. I was able to develop many different skills such as communicating and dealing with other people. By completing my work experience I made many new friends and I also met up with many old faces from my former primary school. I was able to work with others, young and old and I really enjoyed it.” “Birchgrove Primary school welcomed me for work experience and I enjoyed it very much because it showed me the difference between school and the world of work. I learned skills such as communicating with young children, ICT and working with other teachers to provide the children with enjoyable and fun lessons. In my opinion, work experience was a brilliant and useful opportunity.”
19 Birchgrove Comprehensive School, Swansea, Wales / Ysgol Gyfun Gellifedw, Abertawe, Cymru
Initial Teacher Training Hyfforddi Darpar Athrawon Birchgrove is a recognised centre for the training of new teachers. Our expertise in this area is recognised by the three Universities with whom we have formed strong partnerships.
School Council Cyngor Yr Ysgol Birchgrove school has a democratic, strong and thriving pupil voice through its School Council structure. We have introduced a Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 Council and selected pupils who contribute to a regular Full School Council Meeting. Issues for discussion range from teaching and learning, uniform and healthy eating to rewards and sanctions.
In addition we have two elected Associate Pupil Governors who play a full part in Governor’s meetings including the appointment of all teaching staff.
20 Birchgrove Comprehensive School, Swansea, Wales / Ysgol Gyfun Gellifedw, Abertawe, Cymru
Rewards and Sanctions Gwobr a Chosb Birchgrove has a deserved, excellent reputation for good behaviour. Our reward and sanction system is based in the Discipline for Learning System where pupils are actively rewarded for their efforts and attainment. The rewards are based around a merit system and pupils can cash in their merits for a range of appropriate rewards suited to the culture of our pupils. This is in addition to termly merit trips. Great emphasis is placed upon the positive aspects of schooling and staff have introduced initiatives to engage pupils in the development of an ethos linked to praise and encouragement. Awards’ assemblies are a real privilege to attend. Running alongside this is the sanctions ‘check’ system. We will not tolerate the disruption of pupil learning activities by unaaceptable behaviour and any incidences are dealt with immediately with the appropriate check or punishment. At Birchgrove we have a strong anti-bullying policy and WILL NOT tolerate any form of bullying, acting immediately and involving parents, pupils and implementing a range of support strategies. Senior pupils support staff in the mentoring of individuals who may need someone to talk to.
Security, Health & Safety Iechyd a Diogelwch The school site is enclosed, with a limited number of entry and exit points. We do NOT allow the pupils to leave the site without permission. All visitors are asked to report to reception and sign in. The school entrances form part of a computerised locking system and no visitors can enter the building other than through main reception. In addition all corridors and external walkways are covered by CCTV. Medical emergencies and accidents are dealt with by staff holding the full First Aid at Work Certificate. The building has two main lifts and a series of chair lifts to assist access to the majority of the building for children with mobility problems. We have a comprehensive Health & Safety Policy including the new Fire Risk Assessment and a dedicated Health & Safety member of staff, which ensures the school environment, is a safe place for everyone to work. 21 Birchgrove Comprehensive School, Swansea, Wales / Ysgol Gyfun Gellifedw, Abertawe, Cymru
Community Links Cysylltiadau a’r Gymuned Birchgrove has a very strong community focus with excellent relationships with our partner primaries, colleges and community organisations.
Our sports facilities are utilised on a regular basis by local sports clubs and our new lottery funded sports fields form an intrinsic part of community sports provision. Our pupils either as individuals, form groups or through the School Council raise large sums of money annually to support local and national charities events include discos and fashion shows.
School Policies Polisiau Ysgol We are happy to provide full copies of any policies to parents on request. Please make all requests to the Clerk to the Governors.
Concerns or Complaints Pryderon Neu Gwynion Birchgrove has a strong partnership ethos with all our parents. We strive to maintain excellent relationships and communication with parents. The partnership between school, parents and pupil is the key to a successful education at Birchgrove. However, we realise that from time to time the school may not be able to meet the expectations of every parent. In situations such as these, parents will rightfully expect a way in which they express their concern or complaint. Most issues can be dealt with informally. If such attempts do not alleviate concerns then our formal Complaints Procedure can be activated by writing to the Headteacher.
Email: Birchgrove.Comp.School@swansea-edunet.gov.uk
Website: Currently in the process of re-development
22 Birchgrove Comprehensive School, Swansea, Wales / Ysgol Gyfun Gellifedw, Abertawe, Cymru
APPENDICES
Key Stage 3 Curriculum Key Stage 4 Curriculum Attendance Data Performance Data Student Destinations School Uniform Staff list – teachers Staff list – non teachers Governors
23 Birchgrove Comprehensive School, Swansea, Wales / Ysgol Gyfun Gellifedw, Abertawe, Cymru
KEY STAGE 3 CURRICULUM The timetable for years 7 - 9 will consist of 25 one hour lessons. It will contain the following subjects, the figures below are a guide to weekly hours of study: YEAR 7
YEAR 8
YEAR 9
3
3
3
3.5
3.5
3.5
Science
3
3
3
History
1.5
1.5
2
Geography
1.5
1.5
2
Religious Education
1
1
1
French
2
2
2
Welsh
2
2
2
Design Technology
2
2
2
1.5
2
1.5
Art
1
1.5
1
Music
1
1
1
Information & Communications Technology (ICT)
1
1
1
Connect 3
1
-
-
SUBJECT English Mathematics
Games / P.E.
24 Birchgrove Comprehensive School, Swansea, Wales / Ysgol Gyfun Gellifedw, Abertawe, Cymru
KEY STAGE 4 CURRICULUM A number of subjects are available through a range of external examinations as part of the Swansea 14 – 19 Learning Pathways. The more popular subjects are shown below but many more are becoming available. SUBJECT
SUBJECT
English
HE Food
English Literature
History
Double Award Science
ICT
Art
Mathematics
ASDAN
Media Studies
Biology
Music
BTEC Health & Social Care
PE Boys
BTEC Sport and Recreation
PE Girls
Chemistry
Physics
HE Child Development
RE
Drama
Spanish
DT Graphics
Statistics
DT Resistant Materials
Welsh
DT Textiles
Welsh Baccalaureate Qualification
French
Geography
Essential Skills Wales to Level 2
25 Birchgrove Comprehensive School, Swansea, Wales / Ysgol Gyfun Gellifedw, Abertawe, Cymru
SCHOOL ATTENDANCE REPORT BIRCHGROVE COMPREHENSIVE SCHOOL ACADEMIC YEAR: 2009 - 2010
Autumn Term NoR at start of term
Half day sessions available
Total pupil sessions available
Sessions attended
Percent attendance
Unauthorised absence sessions
Percent unauthorised absence
Year 7
147
142
21,012
19,490
92.8%
428
2.0%
Year 8
141
144
19,726
17,969
91.1%
458
2.3%
Year 9
145
144
20,682
18,629
90.1%
638
3.1%
Year 10
148
144
20,876
18,704
89.6%
688
3.3%
Year 11 Term total
152 733
144
21,480 103,776
19,547 94,339
91.0% 90.9%
403 2,615
1.9% 2.5%
NoR at start of term
Half day sessions available
Total pupil sessions available
Sessions attended
Percent attendance
Unauthorised absence sessions
Percent unauthorised absence
Year 7
148
114
16,300
14,685
90.1%
488
3.0%
Year 8
140
114
15,393
13,981
90.8%
327
2.1%
Year 9
148
114
16,085
14,498
90.1%
447
2.8%
Year 10
148
114
16,132
14,484
89.8%
484
3.0%
Year 11 Term total
155 739
114
16,876 80,786
14,888 72,536
88.2% 89.8%
812 2,558
4.8% 3.1%
NoR at start of term
Half day sessions available
Total pupil sessions available
Sessions attended
Percent attendance
Unauthorised absence sessions
Percent unauthorised absence
Year 7
149
122
17,632
15,789
89.5%
648
3.7%
Year 8
139
122
16,579
14,886
89.8%
414
2.5%
Year 9
149
122
17,646
15,666
88.8%
673
3.8%
Year 10
147
122
17,346
15,143
87.3%
939
5.4%
Year 11 Term total
154 738
122
18,172 87,375
17,709 79,193
97.5% 90.6%
200 2,874
1.1% 3.3%
271,937
246,068
90.5%
8,047
3.0%
Year Group
Spring Term Year Group
Summer Term Year Group
Year Total
26 Birchgrove Comprehensive School, Swansea, Wales / Ysgol Gyfun Gellifedw, Abertawe, Cymru
Cyrchfannau Disgyblion Blwyddyn 11 Ysgol Birchgrove 2009 Destinations of Year 11 Pupils
Birchgrove School 2009 – Merched Females
(2010 details published end of October 2010)
Bechgyn Males
Cyfanswm Disgyblion Total Pupils
Addysg Amser Llawn - Coleg
Full Time Education - College
108
Addysg Amser Llawn - Ysgol
Full Time Education - School
2
Cyflogedig
Employed
3
Ddim yn gallu cael mynediad i CAH Unable to enter EET
0
DdMCAH – cofrestredig NEET - registered
2
DdMCAH – heb gofrestru NEET - unregistered
2
Hyfforddiant Yn Y Gwaith – Cyflogedig Work Based Training Employed Hyfforddiant Yn Y Gwaith – Heb ei Gyflogi Work Based Training Non-Employed
0
0
Hyfforddiant Yn Y Gwaith – CGC 1 Work Based Training NVQ 1
3
Hyfforddiant Yn Y Gwaith – Hyfforddiant Cychwynnol Work Based Training prep training Dim Ymateb No Response
12 1
Wedi Symud o’r Ardal Moved from area
1
Cyfanswm/Total 134 EET - Education Employment and Training NEET – Not in Education Employment and Training
Figures as at 19th November 2009
27 Birchgrove Comprehensive School, Swansea, Wales / Ysgol Gyfun Gellifedw, Abertawe, Cymru
Total 0%
13%
4%
2%
1% 6% 3% 60%
7% 4%
Female 1%
9%
3%
Male
1%
5%
5%
17%
2%
3% 6% 5%
67%
6% 4%
55% 7%
Addysg Amser Llawn - Coleg
Full Time Education - College Addysg Amser Llawn - Ysgol
Full Time Education - School Cyflogedig
Employed Ddim yn gallu cael mynediad I CAH Unable to enter EET DdMCAH – cofrestredig NEET - registered DdMCAH – heb gofrestru NEET - unregistered
4%
Hyfforddiant Yn Y Gwaith – Cyflogedig Work Based Training Employed Hyfforddiant Yn Y Gwaith – Heb ei Gyflogi Work Based Training Non-Employed Hyfforddiant Yn Y Gwaith – CGC 1 Work Based Training NVQ 1 Hyfforddiant Yn Y Gwaith – Hyfforddiant Cychwynnol Work Based Training prep training Dim Ymateb No Response Wedi Symud o’r Ardal Moved from area
28
Birchgrove Comprehensive School, Swansea, Wales / Ysgol Gyfun Gellifedw, Abertawe, Cymru
BIRCHGROVE COMPREHENSIVE SCHOOL SCHOOL UNIFORM AND EQUIPMENT WHAT WILL MY CHILD WEAR AT BIRCHGROVE? Our present school uniform consists of the following items: •
The burgundy polo shirt with school logo available from: o Bergoni, Unit 1 Cambrian Court, Ferryboat Close, Enterprise Park, Swansea. This outlet is currently our only recognised supplier.
• • • • •
Black v neck jumper with school logo Black school trousers or black school skirt Black shoes (no trainers). Black school fleece with school logo. School rain jackets are available from Bergoni.
No denim jackets, ‘hoodies’, tracksuit tops or other branded sweatshirts are allowed. Jewellery Pupils may wear one plain ring. Pupils who have had their ears pierced may wear one small plain stud in the bottom of each ear lobe. Necklaces, bracelets, nose, eyebrow and tongue studs are not permitted. Pupils may be asked to remove jewellery in lessons such as P.E. for reasons of safety. Hair colour We do not allow unnatural hair colours. The final decision on matters relating to uniform will rest with the Headteacher. All pupils are expected to present themselves for school in a neat and tidy school uniform. Please label all clothing as appropriate. WHAT EQUIPMENT WILL PUPILS NEED AT BIRCHGROVE? All pupils will need the following: • A school bag, pen, pencil, rubber, ruler, coloured pencils and P.E. kit. Other useful items: •
A calculator - preferably Casio fx 83ES / fx 85ES (solar) and angle measurer (360°); craft apron and an old shirt to wear in Art class.
Please label all items. Pupils must look after all books and equipment issued by the school. Any damaged and lost items will need to be replaced. Valuable pens, watches, etc should be left at home. Mobile phones, other electrical devices and items of jewellery - the school accepts no liability for loss, damage or theft and will NOT investigate any such incidents.
29 Birchgrove Comprehensive School, Swansea, Wales / Ysgol Gyfun Gellifedw, Abertawe, Cymru
TEACHING STAFF Mrs K E Holland Mr R Francis Mrs S M Jenkins Mr A Nicholas
(KEH) (RF) (SMJ) (AN)
-
Headteacher Deputy Headteacher – on secondment 2010-11 Deputy Headteacher Senior Teacher
Mrs C S Davies Mrs J E Hicks Mr S Martin Mr N J Heywood Miss C Davies Mr L Lewis Mr K Williams Mr P Davies
(CSD) (JEH) (SM) (NJH) (CD) (LL) (KW) (PD)
-
Head of English Head of Faculty - Mathematics Head of Faculty – Science Head of Faculty - Technology Head of Faculty - Humanities Head of Faculty - Aesthetics Head of Faculty – Inclusion Head of Faculty – Pupil Progress and Welfare
Mr D A Hamm Mr J Toghill
(DAH) (JT)
-
Key Stage 3 Manager / Maths Key Stage 4 Manager / History
Mrs C Dellow Miss A V Stephenson Ms C E George Mrs J James
(CAD) (AS) (CEG) (JJ)
-
Second in English / Media Studies English / Literacy Co-ordinator English English / SEN
Miss J L Thomas Mrs B Williams (Mr J Kedward) Mrs S Gutteridge
(JLT) (BW) (JKed) (SG)
-
French Welsh Welsh Welsh
Mrs A Elkin Mrs G Battell Mr M Tucker
(AE) (SGB) (MT)
-
Mathematics / Second in Faculty Mathematics Mathematics / Assistant Key Stage 4 Manager
Dr S E Burton Mr D M Heal Mr I E Bellamy Mr R Hayward
(SEB) (DMH) (IEB) (RH)
-
Science / Second in Faculty Science / Head of Physics Science / Assistant Key Stage 3 Manager Science 30
Birchgrove Comprehensive School, Swansea, Wales / Ysgol Gyfun Gellifedw, Abertawe, Cymru
Ms C Vallespir
(CV)
-
Science
Mr J King Miss B Harry
(JK) (BH)
-
Head of History R.E.
Mrs C Taylor Ms H E James Mr A M Davies Mr M Arnold
(CT) (HEJ) (AMD) (MA)
-
Design Technology / Second in Faculty Design Technology Head of ICT / Mathematics ICT
Mr C Jones Mrs B S Williams Miss L Hopkins Mr R C Bonell Mrs A J Davies Mr R D Hopkins Ms C Thomas
(CJ) (BSW) (LH) (RCB) (AJD) (RDH)
-
Head of Music / Second in Aesthetics Head of Art Art / Essential Skills Co-ordinator P.E. P.E. / Assistant Key Stage 3 Manager P.E. P.E. Temporary / Part-time
Mr A M Lear Mrs K Lee
(AML) (KL)
-
STF STF
31 Birchgrove Comprehensive School, Swansea, Wales / Ysgol Gyfun Gellifedw, Abertawe, Cymru
ADMINISTRATION / TECHNICAL STAFF Mrs D Morgan Mrs L E Morgan Ms J R Lloyd Mrs L M Mumford Mrs C Miller Mrs C Lloyd Mr K Brooks
-
Mr C D Evans Mrs E Llewelyn Mr G Evans Mr K Phillips Mrs C L Jones Mr L Davies Mr P S Morgan Mr M J Powell Mr M J Hancock Mr C Honey-Jones Mrs R Richards Mrs M Davies Mrs Y Parry Mrs M Thomas Mrs D Artis Mrs C Astill Mrs E Berry Mrs J Beynon Mrs L Coates Mrs S Evans Mrs J Daniels Mrs E Fackrell Mr N Griffiths Miss K James Mr L Martinelli Mrs M Rogers Miss C Rosser Miss C Simpson Mrs R Wells Miss J Whiteman Mrs A Barber Miss B Lee Mr G Morris Miss K Salter Mrs A Kirkhouse Miss K Richards
-
School Business Manager Senior Pupil Records Officer / Reception Pupil Records Officer / Reception Finance Officer Finance & Premises Officer/Cover Supervisor Headteacher’s PA Examinations’ Officer/Welsh Baccalaureate Admin/EVC Co-ordinator/Admin support for Health and Safety Inclusion Support Officer Pastoral Support / Attendance Officer Caretaker Senior Laboratory Technician Laboratory Technician Faculty Support Assistant Technology Technician Learning Resources Officer School Network Manager Education Welfare Officer Careers Advisor Cover Supervisor Cover Supervisor Senior Teaching Assistant Teaching Assistant Teaching Assistant Teaching Assistant Teaching Assistant Teaching Assistant / Lunchtime Supervisory Assistant Teaching Assistant Teaching Assistant Teaching Assistant Teaching Assistant Teaching Assistant Teaching Assistant Teaching Assistant Teaching Assistant Teaching Assistant Teaching Assistant Teaching Assistant Teaching Assistant – STF Teaching Assistant – STF Teaching Assistant - STF Teaching Assistant - STF Lunchtime Supervisory Assistant Lunchtime Supervisory Assistant
32 Birchgrove Comprehensive School, Swansea, Wales / Ysgol Gyfun Gellifedw, Abertawe, Cymru
GOVERNING BODY CHAIRPERSON
Mr H W Jones
VICE CHAIRPERSON
Mrs M Ellery
LEA GOVERNORS
Cllr R Doyle Mr P Lloyd Cllr P Matthews Mr A Warner Mr G Lewis
PARENT GOVERNORS
Mrs C Bevan Mrs E Llewelyn Mrs C Williams Mrs T Sturgess Miss J Thomas Mr R James
COMMUNITY GOVERNORS
Mrs M Ellery Mr H W Jones Mr M Gray Cllr P Smith Mr P Thomas
TEACHER GOVERNORS
Mrs M Hendry VACANCY
STAFF GOVERNOR
Mr C D Evans
ASSOCIATE PUPIL GOVERNORS
Natasha Bowen (Head Girl) Daniel Brooks (Head Boy)
HEADTEACHER
Mrs K E Holland
CLERK TO THE GOVERNORS
Mrs C A Lloyd
33 Birchgrove Comprehensive School, Swansea, Wales / Ysgol Gyfun Gellifedw, Abertawe, Cymru