Ballyclare High School: Sixth Form Information 2019|
CONTENTS Principal’s Welcome ..................................................................................................... 4 Admissions Criteria to Sixth Form .............................................................................. 5 A Level Entrance Criteria ............................................................................................. 6 The Sixth Form Curriculum ......................................................................................... 8 Examination Results .................................................................................................... 9 AS Subject Choices Form .......................................................................................... 10 Pastoral ....................................................................................................................... 11 Careers Education ...................................................................................................... 13 University Choices ..................................................................................................... 14 Recent Pupil Achievements ....................................................................................... 15 Pupil Leadership ......................................................................................................... 17 Uniform ........................................................................................................................ 19 A Typical Day .............................................................................................................. 19 After School Activities ............................................................................................... 20 Bus Information .......................................................................................................... 21 Accolades.................................................................................................................... 22 Values .......................................................................................................................... 23
Ballyclare High School: Sixth Form Information 2019|
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Ballyclare High School
“Developing lifelong learners in a caring, creative community.�
...am part of
Ballyclare High School Ballyclare High School: Sixth Form Information 2019|
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Principal’s Welcome Ballyclare High School is a competitive grammar school with a proven record of achievement in academic distinction and extra-curricular excellence. It is steeped in a tradition of high performance that reaches back over one hundred years and is best represented in the school motto, “Industria et Probitate”, which emphasises the fact that hard work and personal integrity are at the heart of our values. In our determination to blend the best of long-established processes and cutting-edge contemporary approaches to learning, we believe that we offer an approach in sixth form which provides an ideal basis for our pupils to advance into the adult world with confidence and success.
Dr M Rainey Principal
“…..we consider the Sixth Form at Ballyclare High School to be a key part of a large and highly successful school.”
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ADMISSIONS CRITERIA TO SIXTH FORM For the great majority of those in Year 12 who wish to return to School to study GCE Advanced Level examinations in Year 13, it should be noted that the number of places is limited by the Department of Education within the School’s total enrolment figure. It is therefore necessary to apply a set of criteria to all those seeking places. Criteria for the admission of pupils to the Sixth Form. 1. Pupils entering the Sixth Form to take a two year course leading to GCE Advanced level must have a record of academic success indicated by the achievement of a minimum of 7 A*–C grades (equivalent to Reformed grades 9 – 4) at full GCSE level and an average GCSE score of 11 points or better in all entries (where grades A* or 9 = 16; A, 8 or 7 = 14; B or 6 = 12; C* or 5 = 11, C or 4 = 10; D or 3 = 8; E or 2 = 6; F = 4 and G or 1 = 2) or its equivalence as judged by the Principal. Where pupils have taken more than nine subjects their average may be calculated on the basis of their best 9 full GCSE subjects. Pupils will not be allowed to drop subjects at GCSE in order to improve their average score. Only in exceptional circumstances will any pupil be permitted to drop out of any AS subject once courses have begun. 2. All pupils entering the Sixth Form must have evidence of what, in the Principal’s opinion, is a record of good conduct. In the event of a dispute on this issue a panel of senior staff and Governors may be asked to consider the matter and the decision of this panel will be final. 3. Pupils will be expected to study for at least 3 A level subjects. For entry to any AS or A level course a pupil must meet subject specific entrance criteria in those subjects which will be studied. 4. Pupils are required to commit themselves to a full curriculum which will include studies additional to A level or AS level courses. Specific choices will be determined in conjunction with the School’s Careers staff. 5. A small number of pupils who have achieved an average of 10 points may, after negotiation, be permitted to return to School for one year to complete a course of study leading to AS level. Preference will be given to elite athletes, musicians, or students of Art and Design where their exceptional talent in these areas is likely to enhance the opportunities available to them to enter higher education. These pupils may, at the end of AS study, be permitted to return in the subsequent year to take courses of study leading to A2 level provided that they have achieved a level of attainment comparable with the average for the Year Group. 6. If after application of criteria 1 to 5 there are places remaining in the Sixth Form the Principal, with the advice of Careers staff, will decide on the advisability of the admission of individual pupils in light of the wider curriculum. 7. Where criteria 1- 6 are met preference will be given to pupils already attending the School. 8. Admission of pupils applying from other schools must be approved by the Department of Education. Please contact the School Office on 028 93322244 for further information.
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A LEVEL ENTRANCE CRITERIA NB: subject specific entrance criteria may be enhanced to accommodate timetabling and staffing. A level Subject Accounting Art & Design
Biology
Business Studies
Chemistry
Digital Technology (ICT)
Alternative Entrance Criteria (if subject has not been studied at GCSE level)
Entrance Criteria
GCSE Mathematics Grade B or above OR GCSE Business Studies Grade B or above.
N/A GCSE Art Grade 6 or above.
GCSE Biology Grade A or above. Average GCSE grade score of 12 or above. Should a pupil wish to study more than one science (i.e.
Biology, Chemistry or Physics) to A level then entry may also be determined by the rank of their average GCSE grade score.
Double Award Science AA or above.
GCSE Business Studies Grade B or above or subject to agreement with the Principal and HoS.
GCSE Chemistry Grade A or above. Average GCSE grade score of 12 or above. Should a pupil wish to study more than one science (i.e.
Biology, Chemistry or Physics) to A level then entry may also be determined by the rank of their average GCSE grade score.
Double Award Science AA or above.
GCSE Computer Science Grade 5 or above.
GCSE ICT Grade B or above.
GCSE Drama Grade B or above OR GCSE English Drama
English Literature
French
Geography
German
Health & Social Care
Language Grade B or above (with English teacher approval). It is expected that pupils will participate in the school production (either on stage or in a backstage team). Evidence of outside involvement in Drama. GCSE English Language Grade A or above AND consent from the HoS.
GCSE English Literature Grade 6 or above. GCSE French Grade B or above. All components must have been taken at Higher Tier. Pupils should have a Grade B or above in each of the components i.e. listening, speaking, reading and writing. However, special consideration may be given to a pupil with a Grade C in one component, if they have achieved a Grade A* or A in either the Speaking or Writing component. GCSE Geography Grade B or above. GCSE German Grade B or above. All components must have been taken at Higher Tier. Pupils should have a Grade B or above in each of the components i.e. listening, speaking, reading and writing. However, special consideration may be given to a pupil with a Grade C in one component, if they have achieved a Grade A* or A in either the Speaking or Writing component.
N/A
GCSE Grade B / 6 or above in one of the following subjects: Business Studies, Child Development, English Language, English Literature, Geography, History, Home Economics, ICT, PE or a science. Ballyclare High School: Sixth Form Information 2019|
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A LEVEL ENTRANCE CRITERIA A level Subject History
Alternative Entrance Criteria (if subject has not been studied at GCSE level)
Entrance Criteria GCSE History Grade B or above.
Mathematics
GCSE Mathematics Grade A Mathematics Grade C or above.
and
GCSE
Further
Further Mathematics
GCSE Mathematics Grade Mathematics Grade A.
and
GCSE
Further
MIA
Music
Nutrition and Food Science (formerly HE)
PE
A
All pupils must undergo an interview as places are limited. Preferable criteria: GCSE English Language Grade B or above GCSE English Literature Grade B or above GCSE Art Grade B or above
N/A
GCSE Music Grade B or above. Obtaining regular music lessons. Grade 4 or above performance (recognised instrument or voice). Grade 5 Theory (ABRSM) At the discretion of the HoS pupils may be required to undertake an informal meeting and practical assessment. Grade B or above in a GCSE science.
GCSE HE Grade B or above.
GCSE PE Grade B or above. Play a minimum of one sport within the School and club. Have a history of participation in School sport to a high level.
Physics
GCSE Physics Grade A or above. Average GCSE grade score of 12 or above. Should a pupil wish to study more than one science (i.e.
Biology, Chemistry or Physics) to A level then entry may also be determined by the rank of their average GCSE grade score.
Double Award Science AA or above.
If GCSE History has not been Politics
GCSE History Grade B or above.
RS
GCSE RS (full course) Grade B or above OR GCSE RS (short course) Grade B or above.
Software Systems Development / Computing
GCSE Computer Science Grade 6 or above.
Spanish
Technology & Design
studied a Grade B / 6 is required in one of the following subjects: English Literature, Geography or RS. An interview with the HoS may be required as places are limited.
GCSE Spanish Grade B or above. All components must have been taken at Higher Tier. Pupils should have a Grade B or above in each of the components i.e. listening, speaking, reading and writing. However, special consideration may be given to a pupil with a Grade C in one component, if they have achieved a Grade A* or A in either the Speaking or Writing component. GCSE Technology & Design Grade B or above.
GCSE Manufacturing Grade B or above. Ballyclare High School: Sixth Form Information 2019|
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THE SIXTH FORM CURRICULUM We would like to take this opportunity to explain a little bit about what Sixth Form life will be like here at Ballyclare High School and wish you well with your GCSE revision. What you do between now and your exams will determine not only your results and in turn your entry to Sixth Form but the subject combination you can secure. First, however, the biggest decision: ‘is A level at Ballyclare High School the best option for me?’ Read on and see if you are convinced that you are ready for responsibility and independence! Listen carefully to the advice of your teachers and careers staff. Sit down with your family and discuss your options and feelings. Life in Sixth Form at Ballyclare High School has a significant amount to offer, but it also comes with a commitment! Your final two years at school are not compulsory but should you choose to return to Sixth Form you are accepting that academic performance is key to your future. You are also committing to developing your talents, awareness of others and sense of self as you explore your interests and develop your skills. Once you enter Sixth Form your role as a member of the Ballyclare High School family will change. Not only is it a question of a more flexible timetable but you will also take more responsibility in the running of the school and act as a role model for younger pupils. The Sixth Form is a special community within the larger school where care, guidance and support is balanced with opportunities for you to be creative, take responsibility and have a little more freedom. If you like what you’ve read, read on! Let’s look at key academic aspects first. For pupils studying CCEA specifications AS plus an A2 equates to an A level in one subject. Pupils who choose subjects from English or Welsh Awarding Bodies, such as AQA, have separate subject specifications for AS (Year 13) and A level (Year 14). This means that all pupils should expect to sit external exams at the end of Year 13 and Year 14. In Year 13 you normally study four subjects at AS and then continue with three in Year 14, although some of you with proven ability may continue with four. This allows a degree of breadth in your studies. Details of the 26 A level subjects on offer are given in the subject choice booklet so consider this information very carefully when you are making your choices and considering your career options. With regard to the less formal aspects of life in Sixth Form the most common thing your predecessors tell us is they believe they are treated like adults by their teachers. Relationships in the classroom and beyond are more relaxed and mature and there is a true sense of working together: staff take a keen and personal interest in your progress to get the best for you. You’ll have a little more time on your hands with periods for private study where you are expected to get on with managing your work commitments independently in a supervised environment. You’ll also have common room time to relax and chill out with a Sixth Form-only servery open for treats and lunches when you are in Year 14. Enrichment Programme On Thursday afternoons you’ll have what we call ‘Thursday Options’. The classes that operate during this time are designed to be fun and allow you to relax whilst learning something different. They are also important for your CV and UCAS application. Classes include Community Service, Careers, Choral and Operatic Singing, Russian Studies, Japanese Studies, Italian, Self-Defence, Survival Cookery, Sign Language for the Deaf, Food Safety in Catering Award, Community Sports Leader Award, School Magazine / Yearbook, Primary School ICT Support, Language Leaders, Primary School Afterschool Club Support and Pupil Mentoring. Pupil Leadership Programme Another area that might interest you is our Pupil Leadership Scheme. Sixth Form students who wish to become buddies for Year 8 tutor groups are trained in-house in issues of child protection and communication, then assigned in pairs to each form class to assume the role of liaison between pupils and tutors. Year 13 and 14 pupils can also gain accreditation as a mentor as noted above, or pursue the Community Sports Leader Award. Representatives from all year groups are nominated for places on our School Council. Current arrangements for the appointment of Prefects and Senior Prefects who assist staff with various duties and in decision making, complete the Pupil Leadership Programme to date. Expertise and training will be provided for you and you are sure to find it very rewarding; ask our current Sixth Formers!
The Sixth Form Team
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Sixth Form (Years 13-14): 26 courses are now offered and taught In Year 13 pupils will normally study four subjects at GCE Advanced Subsidiary Level in order to encourage breadth of opportunity. Options are chosen from a variety of both general and applied courses provided to meet statutory obligations of Curriculum Entitlement. Three of our A level subjects are delivered in partnership with Ballyclare Secondary School as part of the Ballyclare Learning Community. The following optional studies are externally validated: Community Sports Leader Award (Level 2), Food Safety in Catering Award (Level 2). The following are offered at A Level:
Accounting
Drama
Health & Social Care
Physics
Art & Design
English Literature
History
Religious Studies
Art & Design Photography
French
Mathematics
Software Systems Development
Biology
Further Mathematics
Moving Image Art
Spanish
Business Studies
Geography
Music
Technology & Design
Chemistry
German
Nutrition & Food Science
Digital Technology
Government & Politics
Physical Education
EXAMINATION RESULTS Performance Indicator
2014/2015 Schoo NI l Av.
2015/2016
2016/2017
2017/2018
Scho ol
NI Scho NI NI Av. School Av. ol Av.
% Year 12 Achieving 5+ GCSEs at Grades A*-C
97.8
97.8
98.4
96.6
98.9
96.5
97.8
-
% Year 12 Entered for 5+ GCSE subjects
100
-
100
-
100
-
99.5
-
% Year 12 Achieving 7+ GCSEs at Grades A*-C
89.1
-
93.5
-
94.0
-
92.4
-
%Year 12 pupils entered for 7+ GCSE subjects
100
-
99.5
-
99.5
-
98.9
-
% Year 14 Achieving 3+ A Levels at Grades A-C
75.4
77.0
70.5
76.3
66.9
78.1
79.0
-
% Year 14 Achieving 2+ A Levels at Grades A*-E
100
99.7
100
99.5
100
99.7
100
-
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Year 12 Choices FOR AS 2019 / 2020 This form should be returned to your Form Tutor by Monday 25th February 2019. Name (print): _________________________________
Form Tutor: ________________
Do you plan to return to school? (please circle) Yes / Maybe / No If you plan to come back to school, you should choose (tick) 4 subjects from the list below: ACCOUNTING*† ART AND DESIGN / PHOTOGRAPHY BIOLOGY BUSINESS STUDIES CHEMISTRY DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY (ICT) DRAMA ENGLISH LITERATURE FRENCH GEOGRAPHY GERMAN HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE* HISTORY MATHEMATICS FURTHER MATHEMATICS MOVING IMAGE ARTS † MUSIC NUTRITION AND FOOD SCIENCE (HE) PHYSICAL EDUCATION PHYSICS POLITICS RELIGIOUS STUDIES SOFTWARE SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT / COMPUTING SPANISH TECHNOLOGY AND DESIGN
It may not be possible to accommodate all subject combinations due to timetable constraints. If an issue arises we will discuss this with you. Once your choices have been processed it might not be possible to make changes. However, following GCSE results publication, changes may be possible for a small number of pupils. You must attend this year’s advice day will be held on Thursday 22nd August 2019. * Depending on student numbers some classes may run at Ballyclare Secondary School † Due to timetabling constraints, it may be that students will be unable to study both of these subjects. Parent / Carer Signature: ___________________________________
Date: ________________
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PASTORAL Pastoral Care relates to the:-
Academic Progress of all pupils Behaviour of all pupils Welfare of all pupils
Academic Progress of all pupils
As a school we recognise that one size does not fit all. As a Pastoral Team we continue to nurture, support, include and inspire all pupils to achieve their very best in the classroom by: Personalised effective learning based on data It is essential for staff to have knowledge of the needs, abilities and aspirations of each pupil so that they can prepare teaching and learning strategies to meet those needs. The introduction of Tracking Tuesdays allows Form Tutors to regularly monitor progress with their form class. Assessment for learning approaches then foster skills and competences to develop all learners and ensure independence; Inclusion and removing barriers to success Ballyclare High School aims to provide a wealth of opportunities and experiences while nurturing a sense of health and well-being to allow all pupils to participate fully in all the school has to offer. Nothing succeeds like success and so it is crucial that early intervention combined with learning support identifies, arrests and addresses difficulties to raise expectations and achievements; E-enabled school Ballyclare High School, as a former Specialist School, continues to embrace ICT in every facet of school life enabling individualisation. ICT is a powerful tool used to change the nature of the classroom. It removes barriers of time and geography to engage pupils in innovative ways of sharing new ideas and knowledge;
Behaviour of all pupils Good behaviour keeps pupils safe, reduces stress for teachers and contributes to a welcoming and caring environment. In such a place, pupils can develop and both pupils and teachers can do their best work. We are very proud of the high standards of behaviour which prevail in the school due to the joint efforts of teachers, pupils and parents. Ballyclare High School’s Discipline Policy shows our commitment to an atmosphere of positive, supportive and purposeful discipline. The School aims to promote self discipline and acceptance by pupils of responsibility for themselves and others within and beyond the school community.
Welfare of all pupils All teachers have a role to play in developing good relationships and effective communication. At Ballyclare High School we recognise that by far the greatest influence on a child is the home and so we work hard to foster excellent home/school links. Parents are therefore encouraged to communicate with the school through the Form Tutor or Head of Year to inform us of any issues arising at home that may affect the child’s progress at school. The Special Educational Needs Coordinator may also be involved where a child has particular needs. Counselling in School
The Department of Education awarded the contract for counselling in schools to Familyworks for all Schools in Northern Ireland.. The School Counsellor assigned to us is available for consultation one day every week. Referral for counselling is made by Mrs McKay (VP Pastoral), but pupils can also self refer via the post box situated on the wall beside Mrs McKay’s office.
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SAFEGUARDING As well as a statutory responsibility in relation to pupils’ learning and pastoral care, Ballyclare High School recognises that the pupils in our charge have a fundamental right to be protected from harm. In particular, we undertake to do whatever is reasonable to safeguard and promote our pupils’ safety and well-being. Children cannot learn effectively or develop unless they feel secure and therefore we expect every pupil and member of staff to work hard to maintain an ethos which contributes to the care, safety and well-being of all pupils in our school community. Our Safeguarding Policy sets out clearly the procedures to be followed in cases of suspected abuse, drawing on the advice provided by the Education Authority and Support Service for Schools. All our staff are fully trained with regard to Child Protection procedures and remain vigilant for any problems of this nature. Staff or pupils who have any concerns regarding a Child Protection matter can approach either Mrs A McKay (Designated Teacher for Child Protection), Mr G Lenaghan (Deputy Designated Teacher for Child Protection) or Mrs M Hill (Deputy Designated Teacher for Child Protection with responsibility for Online Safety). You can be assured of our professional discretion. Parents should also be aware of the School’s Safeguarding arrangements and the fact that this may require cases to be referred to external agencies providing specific pastoral support such as: School Counsellor Education Welfare Social Services CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service) External Support Services hosted in School.
SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS - ‘CELEBRATING DIFFERENCE’ Ballyclare High School welcomes young people with additional needs, recognising the strengths they bring to the classroom and the school. We have pupils ranging from stage 1 to stage 5 on the ‘Code of Practice’. Some pupils manage very well in school with little intervention as many of our teaching and learning practices are enabling for the child with Special Educational Needs (SEN). However, at times, our pupils with SEN can find school life challenging. At Ballyclare High School we aim to work in close partnership with our pupils, their parents and external organisations to provide the correct support to enable them to reach their full potential. For pupils with a Statement of Educational Needs, extra adult support in terms of classroom assistance may be provided by the Education Authority. The Special Educational Needs Coordinator is available to discuss SEN issues with pupils, parents and staff.
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CAREERS EDUCATION Information, Advice and Guidance in Sixth Form As careers staff in Ballyclare High School we are passionate about working with our young people to help them through this transitional stage into the world of higher education and the workplace. We acknowledge that the future we are preparing them for is fast-paced and transcends a global stage. This is both an exciting and daunting experience for young people and the School places a high emphasis on supporting them through this important final step of their career journey into one of the many post-18 opportunities. Pupils are offered:
Individual and group careers guidance interviews An annual Careers Convention Presentations on a wide range of careers Mock interviews for higher education places CV preparation University talks and visits Labour market information workshops Weekly careers education lessons Work experience Work shadowing Interviews with DFE careers advisors
Recognising that these career decisions can be stressful for parents too the School provides information evenings for parents, in association with universities from across the British Isles. The implications of subject choices made at school are considered in the light of the most up-to-date labour market information. UCAS - 98% of pupils receive offers from their first choice university choices. They make ideal students because of their values, skills and enterprise.
“…..work related learning opportunities were highly commended, particular note made of provision for all careers–related pathways not just university.“ recent Inspection Report September 2017
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UNIVERSITY CHOICES 2017/2018
Based on records available to date, we are proud to note that the majority of our pupils continue to succeed at undergraduate level and leave university with a 1st or 2:1 class honours. Ballyclare High School: Sixth Form Information 2019|
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PAST PUPIL ACHIEVEMENTS Zoe Wilson What an amazing summer Zoe Wilson has had – the stuff dreams are made of! Former pupil Zoe was a member of the Irish Hockey Team who reached the final of the World Cup, winning silver medals. Zoe and her team mates have undoubtedly sent a message to us all; everything is achievable if you work hard and believe. Ireland were ranked 16th in the world before entering this competition and no one could predict their steady progression to knock out team after team to reach the final against the Netherlands: a David v Goliath story, amateurs versus professionals, the comparisons could go on and on. Ireland are now ranked 8th. It is even more remarkable that Zoe manages all this and still finds time for her studies in Food and Nutrition at the University of Ulster where she is a second year student. As a pupil she was on our Schools’ Cup-winning hockey squad, scoring the all important goal in extra time. She also represented the School in athletics and badminton. On leaving school she attended Syracuse University in America to play hockey, where she helped them win the American University League for the first time in their history and so met President Obama. She then moved to Germany where she played for Harvester. Zoe has become a valuable asset to our coaching programme here working alongside Mr Corry with the senior squad. We wish her every success as she embraces the next challenge, that of reaching the Olympics 2020 in Japan.
Rory Dorman Rory Dornan was one of our top performers at A level in 2018 when he gained 3 A* grades in Mathematics, Further Mathematics and Physics and secured a place in his chosen course, Actuarial Science at Trinity College Dublin. In his role as Head Boy, Rory displayed outstanding leadership skills, juggling many responsibilities and taking them all in his stride. He was Captain of the 1st XI Cricket Team who won the Ulster Schools’ Plate Final and a member of the 1st XV Rugby Squad who won the Ulster Schools’ Subsidiary Shield. We thank him for all he has contributed to school and wish him every success for his future studies and career.
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Wilby Williamson Wilby Williamson BMedSci, MSc (Hons), MRCP, MFSEM Atlantic Fellow at GBHI Trinity College Dublin. Clinical Research Fellow at the University of Oxford. After leaving school Wilby Williamson graduated in Medicine from the University of Nottingham in 2005 followed with an MSc (Distinction) in Sport and Exercise Medicine, from the University of Nottingham in 2007. Wilby then completed clinical rotations in internal medicine and acute critical care through University College Hospitals London before undertaking higher specialist clinical training in Sports and Exercise Medicine at Cambridge University Hospitals in 2010. He then moved to Oxford in 2012 to further his dual clinical academic training. In 2014 Wilby was awarded a Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Training Fellowship to undertake doctoral studies in Cardiovascular Medicine at the University of Oxford. Wilby completed higher specialist clinical training in Sports and Exercise Medicine in 2018. He has now commenced a clinical research fellowship at Oxford University. Wilby is a leading light and hugely respected in this field of work.
Imogen Forbes Imogen Forbes was our top academic performer with an A* and 4A grades at A level in 2018. This is a remarkable achievement and even more remarkable when we tell you a little bit about the other talents she has. Imogen was principal clarinet in the school orchestra, the school band and in the Education Authority band. She has also achieved the top grade, grade 8 in voice, piano and saxophone. As a member of the Senior Choir and Chamber Choir she performed numerous solos in our concerts and productions, She was a Buddy, assisting younger members of school to settle into school life. In addition she was a member of the Bar Mock Trial team who spent hours preparing and competing against other schools in the province. All her commitment and contributions saw her awarded the Exemplary Conduct and Unselfish Service Award from the Newtownabbey Rotary Club, a fitting reflection of the person she was in our school community. Imogen is currently in first year at Durham University studying Natural Sciences. We wish her the very best with her future studies and look forward to seeing her at our musical events;
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PUPIL LEADERSHIP Ballyclare High School is a pupil-centred school where independence is encouraged and achievement is recognised. Focus is on the individual pupil and the whole pupil. They are guided to show initiative, set ambitious goals and demonstrate personal endeavour. Such characteristics are nurtured through a broad extra-curricular programme from an early age in Year 8 right through to 6th form. Specific opportunities for experience as leaders include roles as:
Class representatives;
School Council representatives;
Digital Leaders;
Language Leaders;
Sports Leaders;
Team Captains;
ICT Buddies;
House Captains;
Pupil Mentors;
Junior School Buddies;
Prefects;
The Cast of Musical and Drama Productions;
Coaches - outreach to local primary schools and clubs
These many and varied roles promote confidence, self-esteem, positive discipline, self-respect, respect for others, tolerance and teamwork.
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It is this recipe of academic excellence, strong community and the provision of enriching activities that makes our Sixth Form such an outstanding place to work and learn.
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UNIFORM Hair - no extreme style or colour permitted. It should not touch the blazer collar. Facial hair not permitted.
Shirt - plain long sleeved white shirt.
Hair - no extreme hair style or colour permitted. Long hair should be held back.
Coat - plain navy or black. Hooded jackets are not permitted under school blazers. Blazer - black blazer with School badge
Scarf - regulation school scarf only. Badges - only a school badge and one other badge of a recognised Youth Organisation may be worn.
Knitwear - plain charcoal grey or black v-neck pullover
Jewellery - watch and plain ring are permitted. Girls - small stud earrings. No make-up or nail polish.
Trousers standard style black trousers
Blazer navy blazer with School badge.
Knitwear plain navy v-neck pullover
Skirt - Grey terylene pleated skirt
Socks - plain charcoal grey or black Tights plain black tights.
Shoes - plain black, strong leather shoes
Shoes - plain black, low heeled strong leather shoes (not suede or patent)
A TYPICAL DAY Each day is made up of 18 periods. All subjects are delivered over multiple periods. Below is an example of a typical day. Time
Period
9.00
Class Time to get organised
9.10
Registration
Meeting with my Form Tutor.
9.20
1-5
First class of the day - History
11.00
Breaktime
11.20
6-9
12.40
10 - 11
Lunchtime
1.20
12 - 14
Private Study periods
2.00
14 - 18
Final class - Chemistry
3.40
End of school
Assembly Second class - Mathematics
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AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES In Ballyclare High School we believe that there is much to be gained from having an exciting and diverse extra-curricular school life. The bell which rings to end lessons does not bring to an end opportunities for children to learn. After-School activities include: Athletics Badminton Bar Mock Trial Boys’ Choir Chamber Choir Chess Club Creative Writing Circle Cricket Girls & Boys Cross Country Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme Eco Club Film Club Fitness Suite Football Girls & Boys French & German Debating Golf Hockey Girls & Boys Library Club Netball Orchestra Outdoor Pursuits Pins & Needles Club Rugby Girls & Boys Senior Drama Scouts School Council School Musical Scripture Union Self Defence Show Jumping Sports Leaders Award Squash Swimming Table Tennis Tennis Wind Band
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BALLYCLARE HIGH SCHOOL BUSES
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ACCOLADES Investors in People (2006, 2008, 2011, 2014, 2018) In January 2006, Ballyclare High School received formal recognition as an Investor in People. This prestigious award demonstrates that the school recognises the value of its people, their performance and their contribution to the success of the organisation. Re-awards in 2008, 2011 & 2014 confirm that the School has in place a foundation from which we can build a solid future through continuous improvement and development. Our staff feel a strong sense of belonging in the school and are proud to see this accredited.
Investors in People Health and Wellbeing Award (2014 & 2017) Ballyclare High School is the first secondary level school to also achieve the IiP’s Good Practice Award for Health and Well-being. This recognises and endorses the practices in place to support a culture of health and well-being throughout the School for staff and pupils. Traditionally great emphasis has been put on health and well-being, and this recent endorsement provides reassurance that our attempts to support work/life balance in its broadest sense, and build resilience as staff navigate continual change in the workplace, are of a creditable standard. Ballyclare High School, in partnership with UK company Developing Potential, has created the NI Academy for Wellbeing and works with 14 partner schools.
British Council International School Award & British Academy Language Award (2000-2021) Ballyclare High School has been awarded the British Council’s prestigious International School Award in recognition of its work to bring the world into the classroom. Ballyclare High was the first school in Northern Ireland to ever have achieved this award and is again breaking records by receiving this recognition for its international work for an unprecedented 7th time.
Secondary Geography Quality Mark (2007, 2011, 2014 & 2017) The Geography Department was re-awarded the prestigious Secondary Geography Quality Mark from the UK Geographical Association in September 2017. We are the only school in Northern Ireland to be awarded this accolade four times. The award is presented to Geography Departments which show excellence in teaching and learning, leadership and curriculum development.
Best Kept School Award (2014, 2015, 2016 & 2018) In June 2016 the School again fought off stiff competition to win the Northern Ireland Amenity Council’s Best Kept Post Primary School in the North Eastern Region for the 4th time. Judges were particularly impressed with pupil involvement in environmental issues through the work of the Eco-Club.
ECO-UNESCO Young Environmentalist Award (2014) Two awards were secured at the ECO-UNESCO competition final held in the Mansion House, Dublin during May. The BT Young Scientist Team won the Most Innovative Action Project for their work on creating carbon neutral concrete. The Eco Club won the Junior Enterprise Award for their entrepreneurial work on creating environmentally friendly Christmas decorations made from up-cycled materials such as golf balls and paper.
DIGITAL SCHOOLS AWARD (2017) Ballyclare High School is the first secondary school in Northern Ireland to achieve the prestigious Digital Schools Award. This fact was recognised by the Minister for Education & the Department of Education (Education and Training Inspectorate). Mark Horton, the ICT Mark Assessor, described Ballyclare High School as having “… excellent leadership structures for ICT” and commented on “... the exemplary work BHS was undertaking in extending its ICT expertise and facilities to the broader community as well as a sound vision for ICT which is pedagogically driven.” Marie Smyth (Studywiz Etech, Nov 2009) “We frequently refer to the model used at Ballyclare when discussing good practice with other (schools) Etech customers.” Angela Smith (Minister of State) “Not only do they wish to raise standards in their own school but are willing and able to share best practice for the benefit of the pupils in the wider community.”
E-Safety Mark (2015 & 2018) Ballyclare High is committed to ‘Keeping children safe online’ and was the first school in Northern Ireland to be awarded the E-Safety Mark. NSPCC training for the pastoral and e-safety team ably co-ordinated by our e-safety Co-ordinator has ensured that staff are equipped to protect and educate our pupils in this important area of their digital footprint. Our pupils recognise that they can report online issues to our eSafety Coordinator or to another member of the Pastoral Team. Our eSafety Coordinator is a qualified CEOP Ambassador and ENABLE Anti-bullying Ambassador, working with leading national organisations to ensure that our pupils receive advice and support that is both age and stage appropriate.
Digital Schoolhouse (2017, 2018) Digital Schoolhouse status has been awarded to Ballyclare High School by Ukie, the only trade body for the UK's games and interactive entertainment industry, which is delivering the innovative project. As a Digital Schoolhouse, the school works to inspire, upskill and engage the younger generation in the ever-developing world of technology, through partnerships with feeder primaries. Ballyclare High School: Sixth Form Information 2019|
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SCHOOL VALUES
Ballyclare High School: Sixth Form Information 2019|
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Ballyclare High School: Sixth Form Information 2019|
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