big wood prospectus

Big Wood School, Business & Enterprise College Prospectus, September 2012

Big Wood School, Business & Enterprise College

Prospectus

Be Willing to Succeed


WELCOME TO BIG WOOD SCHOOL

I would like to take the opportunity to introduce myself as the new Head Teacher of Big Wood School. I feel particularly privileged to lead a school which has so many excellent features, summarised in the most recent OFSTED inspection: “care, guidance and support are strong and ensure all students are very well looked after both academically and pastorally. As a result, students feel safe in this warm and welcoming school” Here at Big Wood School we benefit from a wonderfully spacious and light building, set in beautifully landscaped surroundings. This provides an inspiring environment in which we can all work to our full potential. I make no apologies for having high expectations of students at Big Wood School. 52% of our students achieved 5A*-C GCSE grades including English and Maths in 2012. These are the best results the school has ever achieved, for the second year running. I have every confidence that we will continue to build upon these successes in the future. Big Wood school benefits from an innovative curriculum, which caters well for the needs and abilities of all students. However, I believe that school life is much wider than what goes on in the classroom. There is a wide range of extra-curricular and enrichment opportunities available for students. Many students take positions of leadership and responsibility in school which contribute to positive relationships as noted by OFSTED: “relationships between students are strong; they respect each other, have a clear understanding of the difference between right and wrong, and show much respect for their teachers” We have excellent partnerships with all our primary schools and our comprehensive transition programme enables students to move seamlessly into secondary education. Furthermore, through our outstanding PSHE programme, students are well equipped to leave the school environment to further their education or to enter the world of work. I hope that this prospectus gives you an understanding of Big Wood School, but to really appreciate the school, it is important to see it in action. I hope you will be able to attend our annual Open Evening, or alternatively, contact the school to arrange a visit. I look forward to meeting you personally and welcoming you to Big Wood School.

Mrs A Healey

Headteacher


WELCOME TO BIG WOOD SCHOOL

Big Wood is an 11-16 School built on

the edge of Bestwood Country Park,

with approximately 750 pupils currently

on roll.

The school stands in approximately 22

acres of grounds with extensive playing

fields. It is a very well resourced school

and Faculties are housed in specialist

areas. Our building provides facilities

that are the best that we can make them for pupils. All facilities are state of the art.

There is a constantly changing range of adult classes

available both during the day and in the evening. These

courses are tailored to fit local demand. Courses which

have run recently include a Job Club, First Aid and

Beauty Therapy.

In September 2005, Big Wood School achieved

Specialist Status as a Business and Enterprise

College. This has increased the opportunities for

all pupils at Big Wood and its feeder schools.

Links with local business are increasing and the

aim is to build on the community work established

through the Education Improvement Partnership

and now the Big Wood Partnership.

The number on the school roll has grown steadily in recent years. We are oversubscribed in

all year groups. All indications are that this will continue in the future.


BIG WOOD SCHOOL STRIVES

to be positive in all relationships, supporting and challenging pupils and staff to

achieve

to provide a diverse and relevant curriculum that encourages all to reach their full

potential.

We aim to be a Community that

values and respects each member

nurtures and develops the talents of all

provides a caring, supportive and safe environment

recognises and celebrates all achievement

is committed to quality in all things


SCHOOL UNIFORM

All pupils are required to wear school uniform. It is designed to be smart, serviceable and inexpensive. We have consulted staff, pupils and parents regarding the design of our school uniform in order to improve the appearance of our pupils. The school uniform is strictly enforced. We look to parents to support us by ensuring that their child leaves home wearing the correct uniform.

Uniform List

Blazer Black with school emblem for Years 7 – 11

Trousers/Skirt Black (no cords, denim or leggings)

Shirt/Blouse White

White summer top with emblem may be worn by pupils after the Easter break with a blazer

Sensible shoes Black (no trainers and in the interest of safety, no platform or sling back shoes)

Sweatshirt Burgundy with emblem

Tie Silver and blue stripe

Jewellery Pupils are permitted to wear a watch and a small pair of ear studs. For health and safety reasons nose studs and other facial piercings are not allowed in school under any circumstances.

Hairstyle Extreme hairstyles are not permitted.

Uniform can be ordered from Morleys, Rolleston Drive, Sherwood.

PE Uniform

Girls Boys

Big Wood PE Top Big Wood PE Top Black shorts/lycra bottoms Black PE / football shorts White socks White socks Trainers Trainers Big Wood black tracksuit bottoms Burgundy Top Big Wood black fleece Burgundy football socks Swimming costume (Yr 7 & 8) Football boots (not a bikini) Swimming trunks (Yr 7 & 8) Gum shield


CURRICULUM

All pupils at Big Wood School follow a broad, balanced and relevant curriculum, which provides much more than is required by the National Curriculum. Pupils will follow a timetable which offers 25 lessons of one hour duration each week. The school also benefits from specialist teachers who are well qualified in their subjects. We expect all of our pupils to achieve their very best. We offer firm, fair discipline; frequent reports on pupils progress; lessons, which are well-planned and well-delivered with high standards of work.

Key Stage 3 (years 7 – 9)

Pupils follow a wide curriculum which complies with National Curriculum guidelines and also provides a broad and balanced curriculum for all pupils. Pupils are encouraged to take responsibility for their own learning and are given many opportunities to develop their individual talents in subjects such as

Music. All pupils are given the opportunity to learn how to swim. Year 7 pupils take part in Faculty theme days throughout the year. These aim to improve pupils’ personal learning and thinking skills. There is a regular monitoring programme, which ensures that the experience for pupils is of a high quality.

Key Stage 3

Number of lessons per week

Subject Year 7 Year 8 Year 9

English 4 3 3

Maths 4 3 3

Science 3 3 3

Design 2 2 2

World Studies 3 Hi 2 Hi 2

Gg 2 Gg 2

RE 1 RE 1

Expressive Arts 3 3 3

Modern Foreign Languages 2 2 2

ICT 1 1 1

PE 2 2 2

PSHE 1 1 1 Total 25 25 25


CURRICULUM

Key Stage 4 (years 10 – 11)

We have developed an individualised timetable which is tailor made to meet the needs of each pupil. We take an active part in the strategic planning for the new 14-19 curriculum. The curriculum is delivered in a variety of ways and in conjunction with our long standing partners. Some pupils may attend college or undertake work placements. A range of qualifications is accessed by pupils, ranging from the traditional GCSE and BTEC to the Diploma. As a school we have worked hard to develop flexibility in our curriculum in order to meet the diverse needs of our pupils. We are always investigating new ways in which to improve and broaden our provision.

With the recent developments in education, for example the English Baccalaureate, it is important that pupils are given clear and relevant guidance while making their subject choices. This ensures that pupils have an appropriate curriculum that meets their individual needs and matches their future ambitions.

Number of lessons per week

Subject

Year 10 Year 11

English 4 4

Maths 4 4

Science 5 5

ICT 1 1

PE 2 1

Citizenship/RE - 1

Opt A 2 3

Opt B 2 2

Opt C 2 3

Opt D 2 -

PSHE 1 1

Total 25 25


CURRICULUM

Vocational Education at Big Wood

School

The school offers a range of appropriate vocational programmes to pupils. The Diploma in Construction & the Built Environment is one of the areas on offer. There is an opportunity for our pupils to opt for Hair & Beauty, Health & Social Care and Child Care courses delivered in our Enterprise Centre.

Careers Education

All pupils from Year 7 to Year 11 take part in a careers programme, which includes visits to Universities and Colleges. We run an extensive work experience programme, which includes practice interviews and raises awareness of the world of work. The school has achieved the Gold Standard Career Mark for our excellence in this area. As a school, we have extensive links with local Further Education Colleges and Higher Education Institutions. We also have links with agencies that can assist pupils to achieve a modern apprenticeship. We take every opportunity to prepare our pupils for lifelong learning.

Personal, Social, Health &

Emotional Education (PSHE)

All pupils take part in a PSHE programme, which aims to develop Citizenship and an awareness of their place in society. The programme is delivered through tutors and covers important issues that are of concern in today’s world. A wide range of topics are studied so your son/daughter is prepared to take their place in the world of work. Pupils also participate in two PSHE days. These aim to develop the skills and social attributes that pupils need to be successful citizens. Ofsted recently recognised our practice in this area as Outstanding and an exemplar for other schools to follow.


CURRICULUM

Religious Education

Religious Education in the school follows the Nottinghamshire Agreed Syllabus. The school has no specific religious affiliation but recognises the importance of spiritual values in our lives. Through a series of themes, pupils are given knowledge of the beliefs and practices of the major world faiths. Pupils are encouraged to explore their own beliefs, values and experiences in terms of the religious, spiritual and moral aspects of life. The course aims to foster respect for other people, their beliefs and lifestyles. Every effort is made by the use of religious artefacts, visits to local churches and visiting speakers to set the course in the context of the real world and the local community.

Information Communication Technology

The school is very well equipped with the latest technology to support learning in all curriculum areas. We have two dedicated, air conditioned, fixed ICT suites as well as over 300 laptops, a large number of Macs and Ipads giving pupils wireless access to resources both inside and outside our school buildings. A range of state of the art audio visual equipment is also available to enhance teaching and to assist pupils in producing work of outstanding quality.

Library

The Library provides a range of materials for pupils to access. The multi-media resources available include Kindles, books, audio and visual facilities. A network of computers with internet access allows pupils to work independently. The Library is used by classes during the school day and is open to pupils during lunch and after school. There is also a specialist careers section within the Library.

Home Learning

Home Learning is an important part of the school experience for all pupils. The amount of home learning set will depend on the age and ability of each pupil. A home learning timetable will be issued at the beginning of each year.


PUPIL PROGRESS

Staff regularly discuss and monitor pupil progress. We have a Year 7 ‘settling in’ evening in October to ensure your child is beginning to make progress. You will receive regular updates on your son/daughter’s academic progress. We hold an annual parents’ evening and you will receive an annual report. If you have any concerns you are welcome to contact your son/daughter’s tutor to raise issues. We believe in working in partnership with parents.

Assessment and Reporting

Parents/carers are invited to discuss the progress of their children at an annual parent/carers information evening. In addition, parents/carers are provided with one interim report and one full report each year. Awards evenings are held annually for Year 11 pupils and for pupils in Years 7-10 to celebrate their achievements. Parents/carers are invited to attend and share in their child’s success.

Rewards and Sanctions

The creation of a positive learning environment is the aim of all at Big Wood School. To promote this we have a system that rewards excellent work, progress, achievement and positive contributions to the community by issuing credits. Credits can be saved and exchanged for goods.

The system also raises pupils’ awareness of financial issues such as the advantages of saving. Interest, in the form of extra credits, is paid on any credits held in the pupil’s account. There are occasions when sanctions have to be imposed on pupils. The school has a clear behaviour policy which pupils are expected to follow. There are clear expectations of pupils in terms of work and behaviour; pupils are made fully aware of the consequences if they do not adhere to these.

Mobile Devices

We do not allow pupils to use phones or other devices anywhere in school. This is to ensure that the focus is on learning and achievement. If a pupil has to be contacted this must be done by phoning the main school office. Any devices seen will be confiscated and held in school until parents/carers collect them after 3pm which is the end of the school day.


CARE OF PUPILS

At Big Wood School we pride ourselves on the quality of care and relationships in every aspect of school life. Ofsted described our pupil care and guidance as ‘outstanding’.

Before your son/daughter joins Big Wood School extensive work will have taken place with their primary school. This is one of the advantages of our primary to secondary transition programme. We make sure that we know about friendship groups and academic abilities so that we can ensure a smooth transition.

When your son/daughter joins Big Wood School they will be placed in a tutor group and will be part of a Year Group. All our Achievement Co-ordinators are very experienced in developing pupils to their full potential. Normally, pupils will remain with their Tutor and Achievement Co-ordinator throughout their time at Big Wood. This ensures consistent support throughout their time at the school.

Inclusion

The school believes wholeheartedly that all pupils, regardless of abilities and constraints, have a right to play a full part in all aspects of school life and we have the highest aspirations for the progress of all of our pupils. The school has a very well regarded inclusion team who provide personalised support for pupils with a range of learning support needs.

Our team of Teaching Assistants provide extra teaching and in-class support for children with learning difficulties in a range of subject areas. Excellent links with the feeder primary schools ensure continuity of help where it is needed.

Parents and carers of all pupils on our Special Educational Needs register are invited to attend a review meeting at least twice per year and are encouraged to contact our inclusion team at any time they need to discuss the provision and support for their child. Each pupil on the SEN register is allocated a Key Worker, who is usually the first point of contact for that pupil and their parent or carer.

A team of Learning Mentors work with those pupils who are identified as having barriers to learning which limit their academic and personal progress. Learning Mentors work with pupils individually and in groups to structure improvement in many areas such as classroom focus, study habits and examination technique as well as techniques for managing positive interactions with staff and peers. We also have a mentor who specialises in supporting pupils to develop positive behaviour in and outside of the classroom.


CARE OF PUPILS

Y7 Transition Feedback

Big Wood has excellent relationships with its feeder schools. The work of the Transition Learning Mentor ensures that all pupils are well prepared when they start at Big Wood. Usually pupils will have visited Big Wood more than once before they start to ensure that they feel comfortable in their new surroundings. Parents are also offered support in the transition process and their feedback is sought. The results of the most recent survey reveal a high level of satisfaction.

Parent Transition Feedback, October 2011

Healthy Schools & School Food

Policy

The school has gained Healthy Schools status for work regarding its emotional and social care of pupils; the contribution to young people’s physical education and its approach to food education. The school has consulted with pupils and parents with regard to our Healthy School Policy which can be found on our website to ensure that pupils are offered food that is both appetising and healthy. Pupils who bring their own packed lunch are encouraged to bring a well balanced meal.


CARE OF PUPILS

Cashless Catering and SQuid

The school now operates a cashless catering system. Pupils have an account which can only be accessed by them. Money can be added to their account before school, break and at lunchtime. Pupils choose their food and the cost is automatically deducted from their account; no money changes hands. Pupils who are entitled to free school meals will automatically have their accounts credited with the value of a free school meal each day. SQuid is a new system that allows parents to pay on line for cashless catering and school trips.

School Text Service

The Big Wood School texting system will inform parents/carers if pupils are absent from school. This is an important part of keeping parents informed. It is vital that we are provided with the correct contact details to ensure that parents receive accurate information.

The school’s amphitheatre which is used for alfresco dining and entertainment such as concerts and plays.


ENRICHMENT

Gifted and Talented

Gifted and talented pupils have access to a wealth of extension activities and opportunities within and beyond the classroom. In line with national guidelines, we identify 7% of our pupils in each year group as ‘gifted’ and 3% of our pupils as ‘talented’ (applies only to sport, design, music, creative and performing arts). Pupils have the opportunity to attend additional activities and classes which can result in additional examination opportunities. Trips and visits are also organised by subject departments, which includes visits to Universities. Pupils on our Gifted and Talented register will receive additional mentoring sessions, individually or in groups, from our Gifted and Talented Learning Mentor at least twice per year. These sessions are intended to structure and support ambitious academic and personal goals. Additionally, pupils are given the opportunity to become members of the National Association of Gifted Children (NAGC). This comprises the top 5% of pupils in the country. For further information about opportunities for Gifted and Talented pupils, please contact our Head of Pupil Progress and Performance.

Pupil Voice

Pupil Voice is an important part of life at Big Wood School. Pupils are elected to the School Council annually by their peers. The group meet on a regular basis with a Deputy Head to discuss issues raised by their peers. Pupils are also elected to sit on the School Governing Body where they can voice the concerns of fellow pupils. The value that the school puts on pupil opinion is reflected in the fact that, as part of the recruitment process, any

member of staff appointed to the school is interviewed by a pupil panel. Regular surveys of pupil opinions are used by Faculties and the School Leadership Team to drive improvement and provide the best possible education and experience for youngsters. Our Peer Listening Counsellor scheme has received national recognition after being featured on BBC television. The scheme trains our youngsters to deal with the problems that their peers can encounter in everyday life. Issues such as bullying and friendship issues are dealt with in confidence and very successfully by the PLCs.


EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

There is a wide range of extra curricular activities available to pupils. We believe that learning takes place in many different environments and because of this we offer a wide range of activities for pupils to participate in including visits and residential trips both in this country and abroad. We aim to broaden pupils learning and promote the connection between the outside world and their studies in school. Pupils can participate in extra lessons, sporting activities or enrichment activities after school. The school has excellent sporting facilities including a state of the art sports hall, fully equipped gym, MUGA and extensive playing fields. Pupils can join one of the school teams or participate in activities such as trampolining or dance purely for enjoyment. Many of the school teams have enjoyed success in competition. This success has been in sports as diverse as soccer, indoor rowing and archery.

Creative Arts play an important part in the life of the school. Every encouragement is given to our young musicians and tuition is available after school in a range of instruments at our Music Academy. There are also ‘drop in sessions’ after school for pupils interested in guitar, drums, keyboard and singing. All of these lessons are currently provided free of charge. Pupils perform at a number of events during the year, which the local community are given the opportunity to attend.

School and Community Links

Effective links between school and community are essential to the success of Big Wood School. We publish the ‘Big Wood Buzz’ and send newsletters to parents on a regular basis to keep them informed of developments at the school. Parents/carers are asked to provide us with their views and opinions on a regular basis. The Big Wood School website provides interested parties with information about the school.


SPECIALIST SCHOOL STATUS IN BUSINESS & ENTERPRISE

Big Wood School gained specialist school status in 2005 and was redesignated in 2008. As well as ensuring that every child fulfils their full potential we will ensure that pupils gain an understanding of business, enterprise and finance. This is achieved through the day to day curriculum and through dedicated enterprise days. We look at enterprise in two ways, from the business perspective and social enterprise. Pupils are given social enterprise opportunities through such schemes as our Peer Listening Counsellors and Pupil Voice. Pupils are encouraged to think for themselves and become risk takers. We aim to give pupils the skills, knowledge, attitude and resourcefulness necessary to succeed in the world of work.

Enterprise Centre

The Enterprise Centre is a facility for use by both the school and the local community. Facilities include a fully equipped gym which is open every evening during the week. The XStyle hair and beauty salon is currently open on Thursdays and Fridays and is managed by a professional stylist. The area also includes construction, adult learning and conference facilities. Enterprise Centre enquiries can be made through the main school office.

Business Involvement

As part of specialist school status we actively seek partnerships with locally based business. We have developed an excellent relationship with Capital One who sponsor our rewards scheme and have supported curriculum development in a number of subjects. Through such groups as Business in the Community and Young Enterprise our pupils have benefited from being able to meet and work with many people from the world of business.


BIG WOOD PARTNERSHIP

One of the most exciting developments in our school is our Big Wood Partnership with our feeder schools.

The Big Wood Partnership includes schools in the Big Wood area of the City. The three main priorities are:

To deliver collaborative projects/strategic plans across the Big Wood area

To provide a wide range of enrichment activities

Develop and strengthen sustainable parental engagement

The programme has already had an impact on pupils’ experiences of school life. As the programme develops it will directly impact on pupil achievement. It ensures a much richer curriculum, which benefits all pupils in the family.

The Big Wood Family –

Glade Hill Primary & Nursery School

Southglade Primary & Nursery School

Warren Primary Academy

Big Wood School, Business & Enterprise College

As a family of schools, together we are working really hard to ensure a smooth transition at all stages. We have a real commitment to offering all our pupils the best educational opportunities we can. As a family we all value the worth of each individual pupil and will do our best to develop each child. We are also developing projects through our wider school links.


WHY CHOOSE BIG WOOD?

PSHE curriculum judged as Outstanding by Ofsted.

Ofsted identified the school as a haven for its pupils

Ofsted described the Headteacher as a relentless driving force in the school’s journey

of improvement

Specialist School status in Business & Enterprise.

One of the first BSF Schools to be built in Nottingham with 21st Century facilities.

Large enough to provide a full range of activities and courses, yet small enough to be

a real community.

An excellent 14 – 19 programme that provides for a diverse range of courses and

options.

A fully developed work experience programme.

Gold Standard Career Mark ensuring the best quality in all aspects of Careers

Education.

Healthy Schools Award.

An excellent range of extra-curricular activities.

An excellent record in a range of local and national sporting competitions.

A fully developed Peer Listening Counselling Scheme, which is nationally recognised.

It has been used in a BBC programme as an example of excellent practice.

A Home-School Partnership that values the vital part that parents play in their

sons/daughters education.

An exciting and expansive green site with many opportunities for outdoor education.


WHY PUPILS CHOOSE BIG WOOD SCHOOL

This is what Tia, Madjara, Bradley and Matthew think of Big Wood School:

“More lessons to do and have fun in”

“We’re learning new things all the time”

“I love the music rooms”

“All the teachers are nice”

“You have better equipment at secondary school”

“I enjoy the after school activities they keep me active”

“I use the library for homework club”

“I thought I was going to get lost in the new building but it is easy to find your way round”

“You’re treated like everyone else at Big Wood”


KEY STAGE 3 & 4 RESULTS

Key Stage 3 results, level 5+

YEAR ENGLISH %

MATHS %

SCIENCE %

ICT %

2007 65.0 67.0 71.0 58.9 2008 60.0 66.0 65.0 42.0 2009 56.5 63.3 70.8 73.5 2010 63.0 71.0 78.0 78.0 2011 70.8 70.2 63.0 77.7 2012 84.4 76.2 63.3 71.4

Key Stage 4 results

YEAR ENGLISH % A – C

MATHS % A – C

SCIENCE 2 GCSEs % A – C

ICT % A – C

2007 43.5 35.2 56.8 2008 45.0 36.2 49.3 52.0 2009 46.5 39.4 54.2 63.0 2010 38.4 52.5 57.2 74.5 2011 51.0 60.0 65.5 95.0 2012 est 59.6 66.7 66.7 82.5

YEAR 5 A*-Cs Inc Eng & Maths %

5 A*-Cs %

5 A-Gs %

1 A-G %

Yr 11 Cohort

2007 25.0 41.0 78.0 89.0 148 2008 26.0 56.4 84.0 93.0 144 2009 34.0 50.0 91.0 98.0 155 2010 31.7 59.3 87.6 99.3 145 2011 42.8 71.0 93.8 100 145 2012 est 54.6 80.1 95.7 99.3 143

Destination

Analysis


2011 GCSE RESULTS, % A* - C


ADMISSION CRITERIA FOR COMMUNITY SECONDARY SCHOOLS:

2012/2013

Please note the standard pupil number for Big Wood School is 150.

In the event of oversubscription within any of the criteria listed below, preference will be given to applicants who live closest to the school, as measured in a straight line (i.e. as the crow flies) from a point at the school campus to a point at the pupil’s home, both identified by the Local Land and Property Gazetteer (by a computerised geographical information system). Where two or more pupils are equal in all respects, and it is therefore not possible to differentiate between them, a method of random allocation by drawing lots will be used to allocate places. Pupils who have a Statement of Special Educational Need, where that school is named in the child’s statement will be admitted. In this event, the number of places that remain available for allocation will be reduced.

1. Places will first be allocated to pupils who, at the closing date for applications, live

within the catchment area, whose parents have requested a place at the school and who, at the time of admission, will have a brother or sister attending the school or Individual Needs Centre.

2. Places will then be allocated to other pupils who, at the closing date for applications,

live within the catchment area and whose parents have requested a place at the school.

3. Places will then be allocated to pupils who live outside the catchment area, whose

parents have requested a place at the school and who, at the time admission, will have a brother or sister attending the school or Individual Needs Centre.

4. Places will then be allocated to other pupils who live outside the catchment area whose

parents have requested a place at the school. The above criteria (1-4) will be overridden and priority given to pupils looked after by the Local Authority (Children in Public Care) as required by the Education (Admission of Looked After Children) (England) Regulations 2006 and in accordance with section 22 of the Children Act 1989 and who (a) are looked after at the time of an application for admission to a school is made and (b) in relation to whom the local authority has confirmed that the child will still be looked after at the time when the child will be admitted to the school. The above criteria (1-4) may be overridden and priority given to an applicant who can establish any of the following:-

pupils with Special Educational Needs that can only be met at a specific school (e.g. where the school is host to specialist provision)*;

children of travellers, pupils with exceptional medical, mobility, or social grounds that can only be met at a specific school*.

*Applications in these categories must be supported by a statement in writing from a doctor, social worker or other relevant professional. This is necessary because you will be asking the Authority to assess your child as having a stronger case than other children.


ADMISSION CRITERIA FOR COMMUNITY SECONDARY SCHOOLS:

2012/2013

Each case will be considered on its merits by the Corporate Director of Children’s Services (or his nominated representative) in consultation with the school concerned.

With the exception of pupils in Key Stage 4 waiting lists will be maintained for all other year groups for community secondary schools which are oversubscribed for the academic year until the summer half-term.

For admission purposes the Local Authority considers a sibling connection to relate to any of the following:-

a brother or sister who share the same parents;

a half brother or sister, where two children share one common parent;

a step brother or sister, where two children are related by a parent’s marriage;

adopted or fostered children living in the same household under the terms of a Residence Order.

Where applications are received in respect of twins, triplets or children of other multiple births, the authority will endeavour to offer places in the same school, admitting above the planned admission number where necessary. If this is not possible, the parent/carer will be asked which child(ren) should take up the place(s). The parent/carer will still have a right of appeal against a refusal of a place.

Any parent/carer whose child is refused a school place for which they have applied has the right of appeal to an independent appeals panel*. (Full details will be provided at the time of refusal).

*(Except, the parent/carer of a child who has been permanently excluded from two schools and where at least one of those exclusions took place after 1 September 1997. This applies to a twice excluded pupil for a period of two years beginning with the date the last exclusion took place).

Please note that the Local Authority does not operate a ‘feeder’ arrangement. Attendance at a particular primary or junior school is not taken into account when places at secondary schools are allocated.

Home School Agreement

The school has a home school agreement which clearly sets out the expectations of pupils and the support required from parents when a pupil is accepted at Big Wood. The school will also abide by the criteria set out in the agreement. All parents and pupils will be expected to sign the agreement.

Pupils’ Attendance

During the academic year 2011/2012, 2.5% of pupils had unauthorised absence, and the overall attendance was 92.2%


SCHOOL TERM DATES 2012 – 2013


STATUTORY INFORMATION

School Governors

The Governing Body play an active part in the life and development of Big Wood School. Regular meetings ensure that the Governing Body are kept up to date with the day to day running of the school. Being a School Governor can be both extremely interesting and rewarding. If you are interested in becoming a School Governor, or would like more information, please contact the main school office.

Complaints under the Education Reform Act

The Governors have adopted the complaints procedure recommended by Nottingham Education Authority. This procedure states that, in the first instance, complaints should be dealt with informally by the Head Teacher and the teachers concerned. If the complaint cannot be resolved informally the complainant should write either to the Clerk of the Governing Body, whose address is available at the school, or to the designated officer in the Education Authority, who can be contacted at the Sandfield Centre. If a formal complaint is lodged, the Head Teacher will provide details of the complaints procedure.

Statutory Documents

The school also holds copies of several documents, which parents may consult. They include DFE Orders and Circulars about the Curriculum; the LA’s statement of curriculum policy, RE syllabus and complaints procedure; and syllabuses and schemes of work used by the school. Please contact the School Office for details.

Charges for School Activities

In accordance with the Educational Reform Act 1998, the Governors have determined the following policy on charging and remissions. The Governors will charge parents for:

Board and lodging on residential visits.

Activities which take place wholly or mainly outside school hours and which are not

provided as part of the syllabus for prescribed public examinations and are not in

order to fulfil statutory duties relating to the National Curriculum.

The cost of entering a pupil for a public examination not prescribed in regulations.

The Governors will seek voluntary contributions in support of school activities. Pupils

will not be treated differently according to whether or not their parents have made

any contribution in response to a request.

SQuid is a system that enables parents to pay for trips on line


HOW TO CONTACT US

Head Teacher: Mrs Andrea Healey Big Wood School – Business & Enterprise College Bewcastle Road Warren Hill Nottingham NG5 9PJ Tel: 01159 53 9323

Fax: 01159 20 8052

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.bigwood.nottingham.sch.uk

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.bigwood.nottingham.sch.uk/

big wood prospectus

Documents

big wood school big

big wood school benefits

welcoming school

school environment

school life

resourced school

high expectations of

positive relationships