Parent Handbook: senior section by Wakefield Grammar School Foundation

PARENT HANDBOOK SENIOR SECTION

Welcome to Wakefield Girls' I am delighted that your daughter will be joining our school. Welcome, also, to you and your family. I hope that you will all enjoy becoming and being a part of our Wakefield Girls’ community. This handbook is designed to provide you with useful information about the school which we hope will answer the many questions that you and your daughter may have about life and learning here. At the end of the handbook you will find a recap on some key dates for your diary and some important admin to take care of ahead of your daughter’s first day. We are confident that your daughter will enjoy her time with us. We all want our students to live each day to the fullest. We’re a happy school brimming with lots of opportunities to help your daughter fulfil her academic and personal potential. This handbook shares information on our systems that enable this and will be a helpful reference as your daughter progresses through Wakefield Girls’. Should you have any queries, please use the contact points outlined here so we can best help you. With best wishes, Ms Heidi-Jayne Boyes Head

Contents AIMS AND ETHOS TRANSITION TO WAKEFIELD GIRLS’ CONTACT POINTS IN SCHOOL COMMUNICATION & REPORTING

1 3 7 11

A-Z ACADEMIC CURRICULUM ATTENDANCE BAD WEATHER ARRANGEMENTS BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL CAREERS GUIDANCE CATERING THE CODE OF CONDUCT DRAMA EXTRA CURRICULAR EXAMINATIONS FOUNDERS DAY AND CELEBRATIONS HOMEWORK HOUSES

14 16 17 18 19 20 21 21 22 23 23 24 24

LEARNING SUPPORT LIBRARY MATRON MUSIC PASTORAL ORGANISATION PERSONAL, SOCIAL, HEALTH AND ECONOMIC EDUCATION PHYSICAL EDUCATION POSITIONS OF RESPONSIBILITY POSSESSIONS PRIZES, COMMENDATIONS AND MEDALS PTA SCHOOL TRIPS SITUATION AND BUILDINGS TERM DATES TIMINGS OF THE DAY TIMETABLE (example) TRANSPORT UNIFORM WITHDRAWAL FROM SCHOOL

IMPORTANT ADMIN PREPARING FOR YOUR DAUGHTER’S FIRST DAY KEY DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

25 26 27 28 30 30 31 33 33 34 35 35 35 38 40 40 41 42 42 42

43 44

Aims and Ethos Wakefield Girls High School is one of the North's top independent schools with a defining ethos which has prevailed for 145 years. At the heart of this ethos is the idea that there are no limitations on learning or what girls can achieve. We support and prepare students to achieve the qualifications and to develop the necessary skills to fulfil their potential and thrive in our changing world. Our school has a stimulating, respectful environment and we promote positivity to instil the happy and vibrant atmosphere you will find here, where students develop a joy of learning and celebrate individual and team achievements in the solidarity of balanced friendships and with supportive staff. We strive to know our students personally and promote their self confidence, to help each find and develop her interests, character and to flourish. Students have daily contact with tutors and teachers and it is important to us that students know who to contact in school as and when they need support. We value student voice, independent thought and empathy and seek to develop these qualities in our students. We encourage students to be inquisitive, explore and debate ideas, formulate their own views and consider those of others in all areas of the curriculum where spiritual, moral, social and cultural issues arise. Our curriculum is broad and balanced, responsive to technological and educational developments, and is delivered by well qualified, committed teachers in facilities which allow study and an extensive range of diverse extra curricular activities to flourish. Excellent results in external examinations and impressive sporting success at local, national and international level combine to give the school its outstanding reputation. The words on our historic crest and of the school hymn, “each for all”, epitomises the school’s camaraderie and the philanthropy evident in its charitable giving. We value and forge partnerships with all areas of our community, far and wide.

Our aims are: We want our students to be: outward looking, motivated to support each other and ready to make a difference be proud to be part of a warm and caring community future ready with a strong sense of social responsibility be intellectually curious and experience a Joy of Learning at Wakefield Girls

Our values are: Empowered Together Aware

TRANSITION TO WAKEFIELD GIRLS’ Moving to Wakefield Girls' is a process we care deeply about. When students join us from junior school we have a number of key events and communications to help make this move as seamless and smooth as possible. They are explained over the next few pages.

A limited number of students join Wakefield Girls’ in Years 8 - 10 and Year 12. New students joining us at these points will be paired with a buddy from the year group and monitored closely by their Form Tutor during the initial weeks.

All New Students For Year 7 New Parents Information Evening - 24 April 2024 All new families are invited to school for a welcome meeting 6pm - 8pm. New students will meet their Form Tutors and all the other new form members while parents listen to a variety of key presentations from members of our school team, including the Head and Head of Year 7. There will be opportunities to see the school uniform and learn about the upcoming residential trip which is a key part of helping all new students to settle in quickly.

Transition Day - 18 June 2024

Personal Meetings - May Our Head of Year 7, Mrs Lindley, will visit every student joining Wakefield Girls’ for 15 minutes at their primary school during May. The dates will vary depending on agreements with the Headteacher of each respective school. This is an opportunity for your child to meet with her new Head of Year, to show the work she has been doing and ask any questions about life in our Seniors. We may also meet with Headteachers or Year 6 teachers to discuss any aspects of the transition for individual students.

All students joining year 7 will be invited to a day to get to know each other and meet their current Year 7 buddies. There will be a tour of the school site to help new students become familiar with our facilities as well as fun orientation activities and team-building games. Students should come in comfortable nonuniform clothes, ready for any weather. Transition Day is dedicated to helping everyone to settle into daily life in our school.

School starts: Monday, 2 September First Day

First Month

Welcome

Year 7 Team Building Residential

We are excited to welcome our new students to Wakefield Girls'. Students can arrive anytime between 8am and no later than 8.35am on their first day. Mrs Lindley, Head of Year 7 will be on site with our senior prefects to welcome new students and guide them to their form rooms to meet their tutors. Students can arrive either via our Wentworth St or Margaret St entrances. Here is a map of our site.

We quickly bring together and unite all our new students from various different junior schools with a lovely residential trip enjoying fun outdoor activities at YMCA Lakeside.

Houses Every student becomes a member of one of four Houses, and remains in this House during her school life. This helps students settle quickly into our community, fostering friendship, belonging and a shared sense of purpose.

In Year 7 students are placed into one of four tutor groups, each with around 23 students led by a Form Tutor. They will be taught in these Tutor Groups. Tutor Groups are rearranged in Year 8 and students have a different Form Tutor who they remain with for the next two years. Tutor Groups are re-grouped again in Year 10 and students remain in these groups until the end of Year 11. Sixth Form students are in mixed Tutor Groups with the same Tutor throughout their two years in Sixth Form. The Head of Year also remains the same in Years 8 & 9; 10 & 11 and Sixth Form to ensure continuity for students.

Digital Induction Our students all use Chromebooks in their studies and to work independently, in and out of school, at a time convenient for them. New Year 7 students will be given their own Chromebook and a full digital induction.

First Year Form Time A daily programme of Form Time runs where students have opportunities to discuss current events, take part in form activities and consider their contributions to school and community life with their Form Tutor and other form members.

Progress Mentoring Year 7 Form Tutors monitor the progress of every student. Mentoring meetings are arranged to assist and further support student transition throughout the year as needed.

Assemblies There is a strong sense of community in the school and non-denominational assemblies, led by the Head, Senior Leadership Team and school staff, are an important part of life here. The whole school gathers in Jubilee Hall for assemblies on Monday and Friday mornings. Assembly time includes celebrating successes of the week and handing out awards and certificates or typically consist of a theme of educational, social, global or moral interest. Year Group and House assemblies are scheduled at regular intervals every term and we also encourage students to work in their Tutor Groups to lead an assembly at least once a year.

Extra-Curricular Clubs We offer 95 different clubs throughout the year in our EDGE programme and encourage students to explore and get involved in the many opportunities available.

PSHE Lessons Covering Friendships, Diversity, Moral Decision Making, Careers, Citizenship and Emotional Literacy.

Contact Points In Our School Office If you have any concerns about anything at all, please do not hesitate to contact school. The School Office is open from 8.00 am until 5.00 pm during term time and is also open during the school holidays from 9.00 am until 4.00 pm. During the summer holidays, the office will only be open for the 1st week of the holidays, and the last 2 weeks of August.

Here is how to reach our team.

The School Office If you have a concern, query, problem or want to report an absence please reach our office team by calling 01924 372490.

Mrs Celeste Fisher Admin Support Manager cfisher@wgsf.net

Mrs Jen Haigh Attendance and Admin Assistant jhaigh@wgsf.net

Mrs Debbie Marshall School Secretary dmarshall@wgsf.net

Mrs Claire McKinlay Receptionist and Admin Assistant cmckinlay@wgsf.net

Academic Queries

Pastoral and Wellbeing

Heads of Department are responsible for the educational provision in their subjects. If you have a query about an academic matter please contact the relevant Head of Department of the subject concerned. Contact details for all staff are available on Firefly.

Student welfare is the priority for all staff. Heads of Years are specifically responsible for the pastoral care and discipline within their year group. With each year group, students are grouped by forms and meet twice daily with a Form Tutor. If you have any pastoral questions, please contact your daughter’s Form Tutor first of all. Tutors can deal with the majority of pastoral issues. If your daughter needs advice or guidance, please encourage her to approach her Form Tutor during the two registrations each day. Contact details for your child’s Form Tutor will be given at the start of the year. Please don’t hesitate to contact them.

Mrs Judith Tingle, Deputy Head: Academic, and Mr David Eggleston, Deputy Head: Teaching & Learning are available to parents with serious concerns relating to academic progress

Please seek the help of the Head of Year if needed. Mr James Harris, Deputy Head: Pastoral, is responsible for the pastoral care in school and is available for parents and students with serious concerns.

Senior Leaders In School

Heidi-Jayne Boyes Head

Judith Tingle Deputy Head: Academic

David Eggleston Deputy Head: Teaching & Learning

James Harris Deputy Head: Pastoral

Contact Points For Each Year

Mrs Kelly Lindley Head of Year 7 klindley@wgsf.net

Mrs Rebecca Manson Head of Year 8 rmanson@wgsf.net

Mrs Natalie Phillips Head of Year 9 nphillips@wgsf.net

Mrs Laura Margereson Head of Year 10 lmargereson@wgsf.net

Mrs Elizabeth Maher Head of Year 11 emaher@wgsf.net

Mrs Kirsty Varley Associate Assistant Head of Sixth Form kvarley@wgsf.net

Mr Christopher Murtland Assistant Head of Sixth Form cmurtland@wgsf.net

Mr James Harris Deputy Head: Pastoral jharris@wgsf.net

Mrs Judith Tingle Deputy Head: Academic jtingle@wgsf.net

Mr David Eggleston Deputy Head: Teaching & Learning deggleston@wgsf.net

Communication We value relationships with parents and understand the importance of smooth, effective communication between school and home. We will email all important news once a week and share your child’s progress via our secure website, Firefly.

Firefly Firefly is the school’s secure website where you can read up to date regular information about your child including their attendance, behaviour, progress, marks, teacher feedback and information relating to their year group. As a parent at Wakefield Girls’ you will be given a username and password to access Firefly once your daughter begins school. You will find copies of all letters which have been emailed/sent home as well as up to date information about your daughter’s progress from her teachers. We also share resources and information so you can support learning outside the classroom. Your daughter will also use Firefly to access her timetable and messages from staff on her homepage. All homework instructions are given via Firefly, helping students to manage their time and independent study effectively. Teachers provide feedback on homework including guidance about how to improve. We share resources, set homework, share feedback and provide online learning activities that students can access whenever and wherever they want, empowering them to work in their own way and at their own pace.

Weekly Email

Parents Evening

We will email any and all letters related to your child via an email every Thursday at 5pm along with a few highlights of school life. We try to send all correspondence through our weekly email so as not to overload your inbox.

We provide Parents’ Evenings to enable parents to discuss their child’s progress with all staff who teach them. There is one Parents’ Evening in Years 7, 8, 9 and 11. This increases to two Parents’ Evening in Years 10, 12 and 13. We provide an appointment system. Please feel free to contact us at any point to make an appointment with your child’s Form Tutor, Head of Department, Deputy Heads (Academic or Pastoral) or Headteacher.

School Life We keep parents updated about the life of the school through news featured on our website, on facebook, instagram and twitter. Please follow us @WGHSYorkshire. We also produce an annual school magazine, The Review, which will be shared electronically with all students at the start of the autumn term. The magazine is packed with information about life at Wakefield Girls' and includes details of academic, cultural and sporting activities, competitions, creative writing, staff updates, university news and art work.

Reporting

In Years 7 - 9

We provide termly reports so that you are aware of your child’s progress in order to support them fully. Please respond immediately with any queries or concerns following reports. Form tutors read through the students’ reports individually with them, to assist understanding and individual target setting. All reports include an achievement grade based either on the term's work or an examination result, an effort grade and a grade indicating your daughter's organisational skills, level of participation in class and whether or not she is meeting work deadlines.

The attainment grade scale used for marking your child’s work is: A1 Attainment is outstanding A2 Attainment is excellent A3 Attainment is very good B1 Attainment is good B2 Attainment is creditable C Attainment is acceptable D Attainment is unsatisfactory - Not applicable or not able to give a grade

The achievement grade reflects the teacher's assessment of your daughter's performance based on homework, classwork, any departmental tests and/or any other appropriate information.

In Years 10 – 13

Effort grades represent staff opinion of how hard she has worked throughout the session prior to that report in classwork, homework and, when appropriate, in preparation for the end of year examinations.

Work completed in Years 10–13 is assessed in line with the GCSE and A Level grades. Grades will be based on work covered up to a given stage in the course and, therefore, must not be used as an accurate predictor of the final grade.

Merit Effort (ME) and Merit Achievements (MA) are shown on reports and in Year 7 are awarded to a maximum of five students from each teaching group.

Academic Curriculum The Wakefield Girls' curriculum is structured to consolidate study over time and provides plenty of opportunities for crosscurricular learning. At a senior level, the expanding realisation of exactly what they can achieve, makes each student’s educational journey both liberating and empowering. Individuality and innovation are encouraged at every stage as they learn to think differently and develop the life skills and character-building qualities that will power them along future pathways. Our teachers are all A Level experts in their fields with excellent academic, and often industry, expertise. In their small, supportive classes they provide an exciting and engaging mix of personal inspiration, challenge and intellectual adventure. Our teachers know girls and know each individual student well.

Curriculum Guide - Years 7 to 9

GCSE Choices - Years 10 and 11

Read the Year 7 - 9 Curriculum Guide

Read the GCSE Choices Guide

Academic Curriculum We live in a rapidly changing world and our curriculum is kept under constant review. Our independence allows us to assess current practice and to select and provide what we consider to be in the best educational interest of our students.

Key Stage 3 (Years 7 - 9)

Key Stage 4 (Years 10 - 11)

Sixth Form (Years 12 - 13)

Your child will follow a very wide curriculum, which includes: Art, Design Technology, Drama, Food Technology, Textiles, Biology, Chemistry, Computing, English, French, Geography, German or Spanish (beginning in Year 8), History, Latin and Classical Civilisation, Mathematics, Music, Physical Education, Physics and Religious Studies.

Your child will follow an individually designed course leading to an examination in 9 subjects at GCSE. All students study Mathematics, English Literature and English Language. They may choose to follow a route which offers the equivalent of two GCSEs in science or the equivalent of three. We also expect all students to complete at least one foreign language. The aim at this stage is to choose a broad and balanced course, which keeps the widest possible range of options open at A level. In addition to those subjects already taken, students may begin to study Greek (Greek is taught outside the normal curriculum) and Further Mathematics.

We provide a bespoke curriculum and high quality personal support enabling our Sixth Form students to pursue their interests and benefit from depth and breadth in all their studies. Sixth Form students have a free choice of subject combinations and most study three A level subjects over two years. Most students also take the opportunity to complete the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) on a subject of their choice. We support students with themed lessons covering research skills, referencing and interpreting data. In addition to their A levels our students can tailor their own curriculum by completing additional courses which complement their other subjects, for example, ‘Future Learn’ courses and MOOCs.

In Year 9 support is given to help your child decide on their GCSE choices. They are given a free choice of subject combinations and an Options Brochure which explains the procedures and subjects in detail.

We have 27 A level subjects on offer, with courses widened from those offered at GCSE to include Economics, Business Studies, Politics and Psychology. We collaborate with brother school Queen Elizabeth Grammar School for some subjects at Sixth Form level. Further details can be found in the Sixth Form brochure.

Attendance Illness If your daughter is ill and cannot attend school please telephone the School Office by 8.45 am on the morning she is ill. Please follow this up with a signed letter explaining the reason for absence to your daughter's Form Tutor, on her return.

Regular Attendance You will appreciate that regular attendance is essential for continuity of learning. Please arrange holidays during the school holidays so work is not missed. When absence cannot be avoided (eg medical treatment or performance in teams) we will support students as they catch up on work they have missed. Special requests for any kind of absence from school should be made in writing to the Head at least two days in advance.

Safety We use an electronic signing system so we know who is on site. It is essential that everyone signs in and out as they enter and leave school premises. We also register students for each lesson. If a student is not marked present during registration, and there has been no message left at the School Office, parents will be contacted by a member of our School Office staff.

Punctuality We expect students to be on time for school and all lessons. Please allow time for visiting lockers, chatting to friends, delivering homework etc. Students should be on site by 8.30am for 8.40am registration. 16

Bad Weather Arrangements Our priority is for the safety of our students. As a general principle, we will only close the school in exceptional circumstances. If any emergency interrupts normal school attendance we follow these guidelines. We will communicate changes via our website and parent portal, FireFly as early in the morning / as quickly as possible and, if in school, we will tell students by 2pm at the latest. Students will not be free to leave before this time other than in very exceptional circumstances. Students will be kept fully informed and we request that parents check our website and Firefly rather than phone. When students are dismissed from school they should go straight home. Please prepare your daughter for what she must do in order to get home if she is dismissed early from school. Jubilee Hall will remain open for those that need to wait for special transport and until every student has been collected.

Before & After School Before School All students can arrive in school at 8am and go to their Form Room.

After school After school provision runs in the Langham Library from 4pm 6pm.

Careers Guidance Our school provides a wealth of opportunities within the curriculum and through extra-curricular activities that develop confident, fearless girls with the qualifications and qualities to have a wide choice of future career options. Our comprehensive careers programme is made up of formal and informal elements. This encompasses classroom-based activities as well as research, visits, guest speakers, work experience, role models, mock interviews and drop-in sessions with the Head of Careers. This process begins in Year 7 and is carried right through the school. It is intended that this structure will have sufficient scope and variety, as well as the depth and breadth of advice, to suit every student in our school, whether they choose a university route, including Oxbridge support, one of the many apprenticeship routes or direct employment.

Ready For Big Futures Wakefield Girls leave ready to enjoy big futures of their choice. We have a strong and supportive alumnae network who support our current students with careers talks, mentoring and a whole range of advice. Every fortnight we're joined on Instagram Live by an alumnae who shares practical tips and advice, inspiring students as well as helping them to begin their own practical preparations. A quick glance at our current alumnae will show the diverse range of careers our alumnae go on to succeed in. They have become our Medics, Chemists, Analysts and Engineers; our Artists, Performers, Producers and Authors; our Lawyers, Investment Managers, Business leaders and Entrepreneurs; they include Parliamentary Officers, a British Ambassador, Olympian and British Empire Medal winner. 19

Catering Lunch All students eat lunch in school. Our excellent catering team provides delicious nutritious choices daily. Students can have up to four courses every lunchtime. These are: 1. a salad / soup 2. a main course - there are always two hot choices plus a vegetarian option 3. dessert 4. fruit Students can also choose from a selection of sandwiches and jacket potatoes with a various fillings Lunch is served between 1pm and 2pm and the time your child eats with her year group will vary from day to day on a rota basis. Our menus change termly to make best use of the seasonal trends and variations in supplies. Lunch menus are available to see here. We are always open to suggestions. The students can at any time make their views and suggestions known via the School Council.

Other Times Soft drinks, breakfasts, morning break and end of day snacks are all also available at an additional cost. 20

The Code of Conduct Self discipline is promoted and considerate, courteous good behaviour, respect for self, others and the environment is the norm at Wakefield Girls’. Students are expected to follow a standard of behaviour and staff, especially Form Tutors, will explain this so students quickly understand what is expected of them at all times whether they are in school or outside. We regularly highlight the importance of inter-personal relationships to all students throughout their time with us via our pastoral program and PSHE lessons. We expect our students to be able to work and play in a safe, secure, friendly and supportive environment. Code of conduct can be found in our Behaviour Policy.

Drama Drama is highly popular with the students at Wakefield Girls', with a large number of extra-curricular events organised across the Foundation. There is at least one theatrical production a year, a Drama club that operates at lunchtimes for Years 7-9, together with a Drama Competition in the later part of the year. Recent productions have included Sister Act, Little Shop of Horrors, The School of Rock, The Wizard of Oz, The Sound of Music, Heidi, Wuthering Heights and Bad Girls.

Extra Curricular Duke of Edinburgh

EDGE Programme

The Duke of Edinburgh award scheme is the world’s leading youth achievement award, and the school is immensely proud to be one of the largest DofE centres in England.

Success often comes from opportunities and we provide lots on top of a rich curriculum at Wakefield Girls'. Our EDGE programme (which stands for Enriching and Developing Girls' Education) provides space for personal growth through a diverse array of incredible extra-curricular activities. We highly value the development of skills sought after by top universities and employers and design our EDGE programme to explicitly help students to foster them.

There are three progressive levels of the programme which, when successfully completed, lead to a Bronze, Silver or Gold award. For each level, students must complete 4 key elements (Volunteering, Physical, Skills and Expedition) with each element requiring considerable commitment and self-discipline. Students can enrol for the Bronze Award in Year 9 (on their 14th birthday) and continue to participate in the scheme right through to Year 13.

EDGE takes place on Thursday afternoons and involves every student at Wakefield Girls', from Year 7 to Year 13. It is a chance for students to customise a small corner of their timetable by choosing from a wide range of activities led predominantly by Wakefield Girls' staff. Above all, we hope that the students really enjoy their EDGE experiences and perhaps discover a hidden talent!

As well as the sense of achievement in receiving an award, students really appreciate the many benefits of the scheme. New hobbies, interests and sporting skills are developed and there is a chance to do work in the community. The scheme develops personal qualities such as self-confidence, perseverance and commitment, and on expedition, students must work as a team and develop leadership skills. When applying to university, students often discuss their DofE experiences to emphasise the breadth of their education and achievements.

Extra curricular activities enrich the life of the school and there is always a wealth of clubs and societies available although they may vary according to the particular enthusiasm of students and tutors at the time. You can view our extra curricular activities list here.

Founders Day, Celebration Assembly & Prize Giving

Examinations Parents are specifically asked not to arrange holidays during the examination period, which for Years 7 to 10 take place within the two weeks immediately before half term in the summer term. This end of year examination gives a final measure of achievement and progress for that year. The achievement grade on each student’s results sheet reflects the performance in the examination providing a clear indication of the level a student has reached towards the end of the school year.

Founders Day is held on the Friday closest to September 16th. The school celebrates its foundation with a service at Wakefield Cathedral in the morning, which all students attend. The Celebration Assembly is held within the first week of the Autumn term and only prize winners and the Sixth Form will attend. Students in Years 7 to 11, who are not prize winners go home at lunchtime on this day.

Should students be absent through illness, then every effort will be made to make alternative arrangements for them to take papers later but this might not be possible nor appropriate. Papers may NOT be done at an earlier date. Students who take examinations in this way will not be eligible for the prize list. The guidelines for conduct during and after the examination will be explained in detail to the students. However, if any invigilator is not satisfied with any aspect of a student’s behaviour, information will be sent to the Head immediately. Misconduct could result in a paper being cancelled. After their A levels, the majority of our students go to university, gaining places at excellent establishments to study a diverse range of subjects. 23

Homework

Houses

Homework is an essential part of the school course. It is designed to help students to gain independence of working and reach high academic standards.

Every student is welcomed to one of four Houses, and remains in this House during her school life. With its own identity and loyal membership, each House engenders a shared sense of purpose as students relax, socialise, study and build a true team spirit with girls of all ages, making lifelong friends through our many inter-house activities, socials and contests. On a practical note, each house also has small, intimate tutor groups, where students meet daily with their designated tutor for supervision, guidance and mentoring. Houses are: Mackie (red) Lee (blue) Clayton (green) Heywood (yellow)

A homework timetable is provided at the beginning of the autumn term for every student in Years 7-9. This will specify subjects to be studied each evening and an approximate guide to the amount of time required for each subject. What is set for homework will vary: sometimes students are asked to complete a task set during a lesson; reading or learning homework can vary in the length of time needed to complete them, as can projects or assignments which are sometimes set over a longer period of time. In addition to set work in the subjects, we expect the students to be reading widely to learn more about their main interests and for pleasure. Your daughter’s homework instructions will be set via our on-line learning platform Firefly.

Houses also provide leadership opportunities for students in every year group.

We value the cooperation of parents in ensuring that homework is done fully, with care and punctually. We will share a copy of the Homework Timetable with you and ask that a quiet area is made available for study. Should any problems regarding homework arise, please do not hesitate to contact school to discuss your concerns. Usually your first point of contact would be with your daughter's Form Tutor. Homework can also be done at the end of the school day in our library which is open until 6pm. 24

Learning Support We see all students as as potential high performers who are not limited by ‘ability’. This comes from a research-based, pedagogy-led philosophy that responds to our growing understanding of human capability. We use a unique teaching and learning framework, called High Performance Learning, to systematically grow minds and develop the cognitive skills, values, attitudes and attributes needed to reach success. The framework is built around two sets of characteristics and values, which when taken together allow each student to develop a thinking and learning style and a way to behave that opens up the opportunity to perform highly in all aspects of their learning. For this, we are an accredited world class school. A dedicated department supports students with particular learning needs through individual support and a programme of Learning Enrichment throughout the year. The department is also responsible for exam access arrangements in line with current JCQ criteria (e.g. laptop use or extra time) where a student has a particular need identified resulting from a specialist assessment. If any parent has questions or concerns regarding access arrangements for public examinations, they are invited to contact Mrs Gardiner at vgardiner@wgsf.net

Library The Langham Library is at the heart of the school’s learning and teaching. It is open from 8.30am until 6pm and is staffed by a full-time professional librarian and a part-time library assistant. It is a busy, friendly and safe environment where students can read for pleasure, use books and computers for research and complete homework. The library houses around 12,000 non-fiction books to support study. We also hold around 5000 fiction books which are constantly being updated. The library runs lunchtime reading groups for students who want to expand their reading further. The library takes a variety of magazines, journals and newspapers and also holds over 400 DVDs. We support the students to develop their independent learning skills by teaching them to actively find reliable information. Year 7 students have fortnightly lessons in the library where they develop knowledge-retrieval skills, such as critical evaluation of websites. It is also a chance for them to explore fiction and enjoy reading a book.

Matron Wakefield Girls’ has a full time school nurse available throughout the school day. This service includes health advice, a confidential drop-in, pastoral and mental well being support, minor illness care, first aid provision, simple over the counter medication if parental consent is given, and support of students with medical conditions. Matron also organises our school vaccination programme and contributes to Health Education through our PSHE programme. It is intended that this service should not replace your GP who should retail sole control over any prescribing for your daughter; although some referrals to other health professionals can be made if required. We have a small sick bay although it is not possible to keep an unwell students for long periods of time. Parents are expected to make arrangements to collect their daughter if necessary. Please note that it is very important that we have up-to-date medical information and medication, and contact details, in case of emergency. Please see the last page in this guide on how to share medical information. We encourage you to keep us up to date with any changes that you feel will help us to support your duaghter.

Music We provide many musical opportunities for students: to learn a new instrument, to continue learning to play an existing one and / or to join one of our choirs. Bands, orchestras and choirs all operate on a regular basis, together with a large number of smaller ensembles. Many groups are run jointly with Queen Elizabeth Grammar School, and this adds an extra dimension to an already flourishing scene enabling students to work alongside their talented male peers.

Regular musical events include: A variety of additional events feature throughout our school year: October: Cabaret Evening December: Carol Service (Wakefield Cathedral); Christmas Concerts February: Stage Production (Play or Musical) with QEGS March: Y13 Recital; KS4/5 Music Competition April: Big Sing (biennial) May: Summer Concerts June: KS3’s Got Talent, Suzuki violin concert

Individual tuition Individual tuition is available as an option at Wakefield Girls' in voice and the following instruments: Woodwind: Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Saxophone and Bassoon Brass: Trumpet, Cornet, French Horn, Tenor Horn, Euphonium, Trombone and Tuba Strings: Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass, Bass Guitar, Classical Guitar, Electric Guitar Keyboard: Piano*, Keyboard and Organ* Percussion: Drum Kit* and Orchestral Percussion Voice For instruments marked* it is essential that students have their own instrument. For other instruments it may be possible to hire an instrument from school. Should you wish to purchase an instrument; the Music department will be pleased to advise you.

Associated Board Practical and Theory Exams The school has a strong team of individual music lesson teachers, and students can take their Associated Board Practical and Theory exams in school. We offer free classes in aural and theory for candidates taking Associated Board Practical and Theory exams, and free accompaniment for internal candidates.

Application For Individual tuition Please complete and return an application form for individual music lessons to the main school office before the penultimate week of the summer term. Here is a link to the application form.

Application For Instrument Hire We hire out instruments subject to availability. This excludes pianos, guitars and drum kits, but if you require advice on what kind of instrument would be appropriate to buy, please ask. Please complete and return an application form to hire an instrument to the main school office before the penultimate week of the summer term. Here is a link to the application form.

Pastoral

PSHE Education

Student welfare is the priority for all staff. Form Tutors look after the students in their Tutor Group under the overall direction and help of the Head of Year. The Director of Pastoral Care and Wellbeing has responsibility for the pastoral system and the Head is kept fully informed at all times. A Pastoral Support Assistant supports the Director of Pastoral Care and Wellbeing and Heads of Year to maximise student support and achievements across the spectrum of school life.

Every student has timetabled lessons during which various aspects of Personal, Social and Health Education are covered. This includes topics such as wellbeing, study skills, health, citizenship, financial matters, drugs education, sex and relationships education, living in the wider world, diversity and careers. We also cover life skills within the context of ordinary lessons, assemblies and Form Time.

The Form Tutor is the central person in a student's school life. She/he monitors the progress of the students and guides them as they meet the challenges of the different years. Form Tutors get to know their Form very well and encourage their all round development. The relevant Head of Year will deal with any matter passed on by the Form Tutor. We offer a pastoral event series for parents - Wakefield Girls' Matters. Events are usually offered online and outside of the school day so you can join us from wherever you are. Events cover topics and issues that matter most to anyone successfully supporting and raising girls. It's another way we carry out our educational mission of preparing girls ready to succeed in life. Join us for Wakefield Girls' Matters throughout the year. Find details of these events here on our website.

Physical Education In the first two years a basic programme is taught which includes Gymnastics and Dance in the winter term along with the major winter games of Hockey and Netball. In the summer term, Tennis and Athletics are taught as well as the Year 7 students being introduced to striking and fielding games via their Ball Skills lessons in PE. As the students mature physically, new games are introduced. In Year 9 Table-Tennis, Badminton, Basketball, Health Related Fitness, Football, Tag Rugby and Cricket are played during their games lesson. In their PE lesson, Year 9 students will access a fitness based programme including ‘Just Dance’ activities, Zumba and Circuit Training. In Year 10 Yoga and Lacrosse broaden the programme further. By Year 11 the students have had an opportunity to play a wide range of sports and are now able to choose between fitness or games based activities. Many students further enrich their experience of Physical Education at the school by opting for physical activities in their EDGE choices.

The school policy is to endorse all Sporting Governing Bodies in their guidelines surrounding the use of dental protection within PE and games. All students will require a mouthguard to take part in Hockey lessons at school. Students may bring their own mouthguards. Titan Mouthguards cater for all students wishing to purchase a custom, dental-fit mouthguard which you can order online using their remote E-Fitting service.

As well as their standard styles, Titan has designed a School Special Edition with the school colours and crest which is priced at £49.99 with replacement/spare guards starting at a reduced cost of £35. Titan’s prices are vastly reduced from dental practices and similar services and include: Elite quality of fit using 3D printing technology in manufacturing. Highest industry level of protection and comfort available. Under-side of custom-fit guards embedded with the wearer’s name. Free of charge delivery. Comprehensive aftercare service with reduced price replacements and support yearround. Titan also cater for those wearing a fixed brace with flexible Instant-Fit Ortho-Guards, rather than custom-fit guards. Ortho-Guards are recommended by the British Orthodontics Society as they allow for movement in the teeth, whilst retaining sufficient protection. These can be purchased using Titan’s online form at a reduced cost. For a faster production time, please place your order and return your impression to Titan before 11/08/2023. If ordering in September and October, please allow a 10-15 working day production time, due to increased production demands. If you have any questions about school please email the Titan customer service team: info@titanmouthguards.co.uk.

Positions of Responsibility During their school life, students have many opportunities to develop important, sought after skills and abilities through positions of responsibility. We hope that your child will stand for election to those positions of interest to them so they benefit from the experience of different roles. The positions of responsibility open to students are:

In Years 7 - 11

In Sixth Form

Form Sergeants School Council Charity Representatives Games Captains Food Committee Representatives Librarians Diversity & Inclusion Reps Digital Champions

Student Ambassador Academic Subject Student Leader Non-Academic Subject Student Leader Peer Mentor Prefect House Official Student Union member (our Student Union is fully affiliated to the National Union of Students) Head Girl Team Coaching training is provided for students to help them support each other effectively, whether as form sergeants, peer mentors or prefects.

Plus in Year 8: Buddies

Election to the roles of Prefect, Student Union, Head Girls’ team and House Captain is chiefly influenced by the results of votes cast by both teachers and students.

Plus in Year 11 Student councillor Subject mentor 33

Possessions We are a very trusting, friendly community but it is essential that students take responsibility for their possessions. We recommend parents to talk with their child about how to take care of possessions and clearly name all belongings brought into school.

Lockers All students are assigned a locker and we recommend it is used to store items of value as well as larger items such as PE kit, coats and books.

Mobile Phones Students may bring their mobile phone to school but it must be switched off from 8.30am to 4pm. Students must not ‘charge up’ their mobile phones at school during the day. Mobile phones will be confiscated for the duration of the day if students are caught using them. Students must report to the School Office for the return of their confiscated item at the end of the day.

Please support this policy by not contacting your child during the school day. If there is an emergency please phone the School Office who will take the appropriate action. Students should not use mobile phones to contact parents in case of illness but should go to Matron or the School Office who will contact parents if required.

Lost Property Inevitably, with movement between school rooms, students sometimes mislay their belongings. If your child loses anything, she should check at the School Office and speak to her Form Tutor or Head of Year. Unclaimed items of lost property are displayed at the end of each half term, and then disposed of after a reasonable length of time. Please remember that we cannot guarantee the return of any item that is not named and regret that the school and governors cannot be held responsible for any items which might go missing. We strongly recommend that parents ensure that their household insurance covers all their child's possessions.

Prizes,Commendations & Medals The giving of prizes and medals at Wakefield Girls' is traditional. Prizes and Commendations are given as a reward for high achievement and as a motivation for students to work hard. Year Prizes are awarded to students based on their results in the end of year examinations. Money for Special Prizes has been donated by various sponsors of the school over the years and these are awarded according to the donor's wishes. Medals have also been donated by leaving staff and students and the number of these tends to increase nearly every year, as more are donated. These are awarded by Heads of Department and subject staff, according to the criteria specified by the donor. Prizes, Commendations and Special Prize winners are announced by the Head in assembly during September every year. Medals are presented during assembly usually in the first week in October. Year Prize and Special Prize winners will receive their prize at the Celebration Assembly in September. Students may wear school medals, badges and the enamelled school crest.

PTA Students are expected to follow the same standard of behaviour as in school to ensure the safety and happiness of all students and staff. Breaking rules on any trip is regarded very seriously and may result in sanctions. The student(s) concerned will be disciplined and possibly sent home at the parents’ expense. Please also be aware that should there be any serious misbehaviour, prior to a trip/visit then permission to go will be withdrawn and the costs incurred will be borne by the parents.

The Parent and Teacher Association (PTA) organises events and activities every year and relies on the support of parents to help organise them. All parents are members of the PTA - please involve yourself as much as you are able in the varied activities. It will help you to get to know the school better and more quickly. The PTA email address is: wghsss.pta@gmail.com The PTA meets regularly every term to discuss events and fundraising activities which help to buy extra ‘luxuries’ for the school that will enhance the quality and variety of educational experience your child receives.

School Trips

School Site

Every year there are numerous trips and exchange programmes designed with a curricular and pastoral emphasis to give our students opportunities to broaden their horizons and develop self-confidence.

The school occupies an extensive site in a conservation area near the centre of Wakefield. The Georgian house in which it began has been adapted and extended over the years as numbers have grown. A steady programme of building and the acquisition of near-by property have enabled the school to anticipate and meet the needs of succeeding generations of students. It has also ensured a variety of architecture and buildings, which are known by their names rather than by their function.

In Year 7, all students take part in an outdoors activity residential trip, which encourages teamwork and friendshipbuilding. It allows students and staff to get to know each other at the start of what will be a successful, adventure-filled and fun journey at Wakefield Girls'.

Jubilee Hall was built in 1928 to mark the school's 50th Anniversary and is used for assembly, amongst other timetabled activities and events. The Main Building contains all the administrative offices, the Mathematics, Geography, History and Classics departments and the staff facilities. The Beaumont Building is a development completed in 1982, which links Jubilee Hall with the main school. It is home to a large Common Room which Year 11 enjoy as their social area. It also houses separate Tutor rooms and the Religious Studies department. Newstead Wing is the block of teaching rooms opposite the Jubilee Hall. This building houses the Langham Library and the Modern Languages Department, including the multi-media language laboratories. Cushions is a comfortable seating area between the Langham Library and Mathematics rooms. Sotterley House and the later addition in 1981 of the Ross Rooms house the Sixth Form. This separate building complex contains private study areas, common rooms, and fully equipped kitchens for the students’ use. There is also a separate kitchen and café which provides lunches and snacks throughout the day. Cliff House houses some classrooms for English, Economics and Psychology, mainly for the Sixth Form. Matron is based on the ground floor and on the first floor is the Learning Support Centre which caters for the needs of all Students in both the Senior and Junior sections. 38

Willows is a Victorian house adapted to the teaching of Food Technology and Music. The Science and Technology Centre (STC) was opened in 1990 and contains areas for Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Academic PE and Computing. There is also a large Lecture Theatre. The classrooms on the ground floor are occupied by the Junior Section who also have access to the other facilities. The Hartley Pavilion opened in May 1996 providing indoor facilities for hockey, netball, tennis, badminton and basketball. The large Gymnasium is used for indoor Physical Education lessons. The Pavilion and Games Field are situated a short walk away. There is an astro-turf, hockey pitches, netball and tennis courts and an athletics track. Hepworth House is named after our illustrious Old Girl, the sculptress Barbara Hepworth. This is the home of the Art Department and provides excellent space for both the Sixth Form and the lower school with specialist provision for pottery, sculpture, 3D, textiles and photography. The Fielding Suite, named after best selling author and alumna Helen Fielding, houses the English Department. It connects, via The Gill Linkway, Hepworth House, Cliff House and The Forrest Building which houses our Product Design Studios, Textiles Studio and large drama workshop along with an additional English classroom. You can explore our school using our interactive map here.

Term Dates View term dates here.

Timings of the School Day Our school day is divided into six teaching periods plus assemblies / form time. All lessons are 50 minutes long and then there are 5 minutes to walk between lessons. The curriculum is taught over a two week teaching cycle, Week A and Week B

8.00am - 8.40am

Students may come into school and go to their Form Room

8.40am

Morning registration

9.10am

Lesson 1

10.05am

Lesson 2

10.55am

Break

11.15am

Lesson 3

12.10pm

Lesson 4

1.00pm

Lunch in Peppers

2.15pm

Lesson 5

3.05pm

Lesson 6

4.00pm

End of the school day

4.00pm - 6.00pm

After school provision in the Langham Library

Timetable: an example Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

8.40am

Registration

Lesson 1

English

Games

Computer Science

Maths

Geography

Lesson 2

Science

Games

Maths

Computer Science

Physical Education

10.55am

Break

Lesson 3

Classics

English

PHSE

Technology

Lesson 4

Music

Science

History

French

Technology

1.00pm

Lunch

Lesson 5

Physical Education

English

Lesson 6

Science

Religious Studies

Science

Music

EDGE

Maths

French

Transport We recommend the use of public and school bus services to reduce private car journeys. A number of school bus services operate throughout Yorkshire. School buses arrive at Wakefield Girls' main entrance on Wentworth Street by 8.30am and depart at 4.15pm. You can view the school bus services here.

Uniform Students are expected to take pride in their appearance and school uniform is compulsory. No make-up, jewellery or nail varnish should be worn in Years 7 - 9. Students in Years 10 & 11 may wear a small pair of plain gold or silver stud earrings, one in the lobe of each ear, if they wish. Hair should be a natural colour and, if long, tied back throughout the day. All hair accessories must be plain black or navy blue. Year 11 upwards may wear their hair down and may also wear discreet make-up. Parents who wish their daughters to have their ears pierced are asked to have this done at the beginning of the summer holiday so they have time to heal. Nose studs and any other form of body piercing is not permitted. Uniform requirements are listed here and are available to order online from our supplier, www.stevensons.co.uk

Withdrawal From School A full term's notice in writing to the Director of Finance and Operations or to the Head is required before a student is withdrawn from any part of the school. Should you be considering withdrawing your daughter then please discuss it with the Head first.

Preparing For Your Daughter’s First Day We look forward to welcoming your daughter on her first day. To ensure smooth running ahead of her arrival, there are some administrative tasks for you to take care of. Please can you check over and complete these items before your daughter starts school:

Uniform Checklist Medical and Data Consent Form Mouthguard Fitting Service (optional but a mouth guard is needed for Hockey) Music Lessons Application Form (optional) Instrument Hire Agreement (optional)

Key Dates For Your Diary 24 April - New Parents Information Evening May - Personal Meeting (Mrs Lindley visits your daughter in her current school) 18 June - Transition Day

2 September - Start of Term tbc September - Year 7 Parents Information Evening tbc September - Year 7 Residential Trip

AN EMPOWERING EDUCATION FOR GIRLS WAKEFIELDGIRLS.ORG.UK