open evening booklet
DESCRIPTION
Catmose College Open Evening BookletTRANSCRIPT
OPEN EVENING 2012
“The College excels in all aspects. It is a modern school with great teachers
who are driven to support my child’s learning” (Yr 7 Parent 2012)
PRINCIPAL’S INTRODUCTION
Welcome to Catmose College. There are few decisions as important as where you choose for your child to attend secondary school. We want to help ensure that you have all of the information you need to make the right choice for you and your child.
We believe in the traditional values of education; that students do best when they are happy, behave well and are engaged in purposeful activity. Our approach blends high expectations with innovative practice to ensure that all students are able to achieve their potential. We adapt our curriculum to meet the needs of individual students, offering a wide range of academic and applied learning that allows students to be successful in whatever they excel in. We complement their learning with an extensive range of extra-curricular activities in sport, the arts, music and drama.
When making decisions at the College, our guiding principle is, ‘would it be good enough for our own children?’ By ensuring that the standards of everything we do meets this benchmark, we ensure that the quality of services we offer are exceptional.
The College enjoyed its best ever examination results this year, something that we are very proud of and building on five years of continuous improvement. It is a testament to the hard work and partnership between our students, parents and staff; it is this partnership which is so important to the success of the College. We will ensure you are kept up-to-date with the progress that your child is making and ask that if you have any concerns please contact us.
Our £28m new campus is one of the most innovative school buildings in the country, giving students a first class learning environment, superb sporting, drama and music facilities and the opportunity for staff to work with students in ways which are not possible in most schools.
If you decide that Catmose College is right for your child, we will do our best to ensure that your child is successful, that the experiences we offer will challenge and enthuse them to do their best. If you have any further questions please do not hesitate to contact me at the College.
Stuart Williams Principal
PROGRAMME
Throughout the evening tours will be provided by prefects. You are invited to look around the whole College. Each team will be available in their areas, showcasing the work of students at the College. You are welcome to ask questions of staff and students.
ART D&T FOODTECHNOLOGY
ADULT EDUCATION ADMIN SEN CLIENTSERVICES
MUSICHELLERUPDRAMATHEATRE
SCIENCE ICT
HUMANITIES/ MFL MATHS
LIBRARYHELLERUP
STUDENTENTRANCE/ EXIT
RECEPTIONSPORT
LOWER LEVEL
UPPER LEVEL
RESTAU
RAN
T
SCIENCE
ENGLISH
MATHEMATICSMathematics is split into four main branches, number, algebra, shape and space and data handling. All of these branches are taught during the year. We relate the maths studied, closely to the real world so the students understand the relevance of learning all the topics covered. The paired and group work we include enables students to develop a logical and questioning mind along with organisational skills which can then be taken into other subjects.
The mathematics team include a wide range of activities to keep the maths studied relevant to the real world. ICT is regularly incorporated into lessons as well as paired and group work. Some students will have the opportunity to enter The National Maths Challenge and compete with students from all over the country.
We start studying the GCSE course at the beginning of year 9 and complete it over the three years instead of the normal two.
Tonight you will be able to see students demonstrating the electronic resources we have available as well as completing some logic puzzles and games. There will also be some colouring and cutting out activities based on maths skills which can be taken home.
‘We are so thrilled with the school, what it has to offer and its values. It’s fantastic and such a great environment to learn in’
(Yr 8 Parent 2012)
ENGLISHKey Stage 3 English is an exciting exploration into the world of language and literature. Students learn to express their ideas confidently in written and oral form. The students are taught the skills to help them express their ideas creatively with confidence, developing a sense of purpose and audience in their work. Students will be engaged in developing literacy and reading skills through the exploration of a wide range of classic and contemporary literature as well as a range of non-fiction texts.
In studying English, we use a variety of learning styles from the practical and functional to the innovative use of ICT. We also bring in guest speakers, use live streaming and skype for students to interview people of interest. Students have the opportunity to use a range of media equipment for presentations and are also given Make Waves accounts to post their work online for others to read.
In year 9, students undertake a Functional Skills course as part of their literacy skills education. Year 9 is the ‘bridging year’ and students begin to prepare for the GCSE and IGCSE courses. Tonight you will see Young Writers performing their prize winning poetry in the open English area; experience the Royal Shakespeare Company’s ‘ I, Cinna’ (based on Julius Caesar) live streaming in Bronte; Year 9 Literacy events in Shakespeare.
‘The College is good at nurturing the child as a whole and not just focusing on one aspect. I feel my daughter is well rounded as a result and enthusiastic about all aspects of her education’
(Yr 9 Parent 2012)
SCIENCE
In Science lessons we aim to exploit our students’ natural curiosity about the world around them to develop independent thinking, as well as problem solving and practical skills through a balanced Science curriculum. We offer a two year skills based KS3 Programme of Study in years 7 and 8. A variety of Biology, Chemistry and Physics Science topics are taught promoting application of knowledge and theory, encouraging collaborative as well as individual work, thus allowing students to progress confidently to their GCSE studies. At KS4 the students are offered a choice of Triple Award or Additional Science at GCSE, as well as BTEC Science for those who prefer a more vocational based course. We are proud that our curriculum includes the academic option of separate Sciences enabling students to specialise in a particular science post 16.
The specification has evolved considerably over the last twelve months, allowing us to embed students’ learning into real life context. Teaching styles are varied, from classic scientific experiments to the use of sophisticated IT equipment such as Data Logging units and ipads. Out of school enrichment activities include Science workshops for Gifted and Talented students, as well as weekly ‘Progress Clinics’ to enhance and support learning.
Tonight you will be able to join students conducting a variety of scientific experiments in our new state of the art laboratories. You are welcome to talk to staff and students and join in the practical experiments.
‘I like the friendly discipline and sense of respect and belonging that I notice whenever I visit the school’
(Yr 8 Parent 2012)
ART & DESIGN
The art and design team currently teaches year 7 in a linear group throughout the year by the same member of staff. In year 8 and 9 we use a carousel system in KS3. This enables the students to experience a wide range of creative activities and develop knowledge, understanding and practical skills in art, digital art, 3D studies and textiles. In all years we use the creative design process to teach students to be problem solvers. This is a skill they can use throughout their education and to enhance and improve their own environment.
Students’ skills are developed to a high standard, enabling them to demonstrate the necessary knowledge, understanding and practical skills required to achieve high quality outcomes at key stage 3 and 4. This is fundamental to our philosophy of helping students achieve their maximum potential. As part of their experience, students will have the opportunity to work with professional artists/designers and experience workshops, exhibitions and visits to museums and galleries throughout their time at the College.
In year 9, students undertake the Arts Award which is an externally certified award that enables students to work on personally set individual challenges. The award is the equivalent points of half a GCSE at grade B, so our students are adding to their final point score in year 9. Last year 150 students in year 9 gained the Silver Award. In year 7 we ran a pilot scheme and the whole group of 15 students achieved the Bronze Award.
Tonight you will be able to see students from a variety of year groups working in our specialist rooms. Please feel free to talk to students about the work they are doing. You will also be able to see work by students and artists and photographs of events, performances and concerts displayed around the College.
‘I think this college is amazing and any person who comes here is extremely lucky.’
(Yr 7 Student 2012)
DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY
The Design and Technology team has 3 specialist areas situated within the same area as the Art and Design team.
In Key Stage 3, we aim to promote students’ knowledge, skills and understanding of a wide range of specialist materials, tools, equipment and processes. Students are encouraged to develop their creativity and independent learning and thinking skills by designing and making a range of exciting projects. Students make products in the focused areas of Graphics Products, Resistant Materials and Electronics, and Food Technology. As a department, we also work collaboratively to deliver a range of generic core skills, knowledge and understanding, central to all focus areas of Design & Technology.
In Key Stage 4 we offer GCSEs in Graphics Products, Product Design and GCSE in Food.
During the evening you will be able to see students working in all areas on practical and classroom based projects.
‘As a new Year 7 student I have been made to feel welcome at Catmose and it makes students joining, relaxed and able to enjoy their time.’
(Yr 7 Student 2012)
DRAMA & MUSIC
The Performing Arts has a strong reputation within the community for producing outstanding performances throughout each academic year. Students have the opportunity to develop skills such as teamwork, discipline and creativity within their Music and Drama lessons. The students will study a whole range of performances during key stage 3 and will then have the option to study further as a GCSE subject. Students will develop their confidence through performing to their peers in an array of contexts within Key Stage 3 and 4 Music and Drama lessons. The use of ICT is used regularly throughout the lessons.
The Performing Arts has a plethora of opportunities available to all students. There is an annual College trip to the West End for Year 7s to watch a show and to work at Pineapple Studios with members of the cast - this academic year students will watch Matilda. As well as small College productions, students are welcome to take part in the large musical production as an actor, musician, dancer or technician. The Performing Arts offer many trips to enrich students’ learning. Trips to London theatres as well as the biannual Performing Arts Tour always have a high level of interest. We also have great success in competing at the local Music and Drama Festival. The College offers many extra-curricular activities ranging from drama clubs to an array of musical ensembles. In year 9, students embark on the Silver Arts Award within their Music and Drama lessons. They will develop their leadership skills as they teach other students an Art skill. Once complete, students will be accredited with half a GCSE grade.
Tonight you will see a glimpse of the Performing Arts in action. At the bottom of the Hellerup staircase the choir will be in an open rehearsal and the Year 10 Drama students will be performing Poetry.
In addition there will be performances from soloists and duets in ‘Vivaldi’ and the Year 11 Drama students will also be performing mask pieces at various places around the College.
HUMANITIESIn Years 7, 8 and 9 all students will follow courses in history, geography and religious studies. Students will be encouraged to be inquisitive about the world around them; to use a variety of resources and sources to reach substantiated conclusions and to develop an appreciation of religious and moral issues. As far as possible the content is designed to be relevant to the student’s life and to equip them with an enquiring and critical mind.
Students are encouraged to engage with each of the subjects by combining individual research and presentations with collaborative group work. Wherever possible, practical work is included and much use is made of the College’s sophisticated ICT facilities. Students will apply their knowledge, skills and understanding of each subject to real life situations and try to use what they have learnt to deepen their understanding of the world around them. Fieldwork is part of the geography curriculum and includes a very popular visit to the North Norfolk coast as well as opportunities to look more closely at the local environment.
Tonight you will see geography students applying their map skills to complete practical activities. Other students will be continuing to work on their investigations into Medieval castles.
‘I think the school has a strong identity, good facilities, excellent teachers all supporting a good learning environment’
(Yr 10 Parent 2012)
ICTICT is seen as an important part of the Curriculum and encompasses both Information Technology and Computing. Through our ICT lessons, students develop an understanding about how technology has developed over recent years and how it can be used within the school and the workplace. This year we are introducing more computing elements within our Key Stage 3 Curriculum, as we believe this will further develop students’ problem solving skills and independence while also promoting intellectual development. Each year we reassess and enhance our ICT Curriculum to ensure that it remains up to date and relevant to students.
During ICT lessons we are able to take full advantage of the resources available to us within the College and regularly use iPads, digital cameras and video cameras. We also try to promote digital literacy during each topic. This involves using a variety of software packages and computer systems which help to develop a fundamental understanding of computers and allows students to communicate and work more efficiently. During Key Stage 3 we cover a wide variety of topics from website development and social media campaigns to spreadsheets, databases and simple programming using ‘Scratch’; therefore we expect students to be both practical and creative while also being able to work independently and as part of a group.
In year 9 students begin the Cambridge Nationals course which allows students to achieve a GCSE equivalent by the end of Year 10.
Tonight you will be able to see students working in groups, producing a video of the open evening. This will then be edited and feature on the Catmose College ‘Makewaves’ website. Please feel free to talk to students about the work they are doing and how the website is used across the College.
‘The school has provided exceptional support in the transition from primary school well beyond my expectation’
(Yr 7 Parent 2012)
MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGESIn years 7 and 8, students study French with the option in year 9 of also starting either German or Spanish. During these first few years, students will gain a strong grounding in French grammar, working within a wide variety of topic areas and concentrating on the cultural aspects of French-speaking countries.
Students of Modern Foreign Languages will enjoy many opportunities to experience the cultures of the countries where the foreign language is spoken. The department has established links with schools in both France and Germany and trips abroad, include the French Opal Coast and the south of Spain.
Within lessons, students work both independently and in groups, completing varied activities practising their listening, speaking, reading and writing skills. The Modern Foreign Languages department is very fortunate in that it is one of only a few schools in the country that has a state of the art language lab, which students use in the course of their studies.
Tonight you will see students in Modern Languages using their language skills to sing in a French Choir. Some students will also be working on an interactive website, on which they will be taking part in French challenges and completing real-life scenarios. Please do come along and speak to the students about their work.
‘The technology is outstanding with a large amount of ipads, computers and apple macs etc. The building is amazing for a secondary school. The learning environment is positive and staff encourage this’
(Yr 8 Student 2012)
SPORTThe main aim of the Sports Team at Catmose College is to lay the foundations for a lifelong love of physical activity. In lessons, students study a range of sports from the traditional team games of football and netball to the disability sports of sitting volleyball, wheelchair basketball and boccia. This variety provides a fun curriculum and gives all students the opportunity to develop their physical literacy and self - confidence. By the time students complete Key Stage 3 they should have enhanced cognitive, creative, personal, physical and social abilities. These are skills which can easily be transferred to other subject areas. Regardless of the activity taking place, teachers work hard to personalise lessons, thus ensuring that every child reaches their potential. During year 7 students will experience a wide range of innovative teaching methods such as Games for Understanding, Teaching for Creativity and Sport Education. The emphasis is on allowing individuals to make their own decisions and to take responsibility for their learning. During the year they will get a chance to perform the roles of leader, coach, official, choreographer and many more. The College boasts a rich and varied Extra – Curricular Physical Education programme, consisting of over 20 activities. These take place before, during and after College and are well attended. This is largely down to students having input into what’s on offer. Our focus sports are football, rugby, netball and volleyball in winter and cricket, rounders and athletics in summer. All clubs are run by the Sports Team with the help of specialist outside coaches. With competitions ranging from Inter-house all the way through to Level 3 Regional events, there really is something for everyone. Having just been crowned Varsity Champions 2012/13, now is a great time to be involved in sport at Catmose College.
Tonight you will have the opportunity to take part in an interactive sports session. Activities include a penalty shootout, short tennis and a square ball competition. Staff and students will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS & THE DESIGNATED SPECIAL PROVISION (DSP)For students attending Catmose College who have a statement of special educational needs we have a comprehensive system of support. Students are all assigned a Key Worker in order to enable one significant member of staff to have in-depth knowledge of the students’ needs and to be the primary contact for parents. All Key Workers are members of the SEN teaching staff with an excellent understanding and experience of special needs.
Students’ progress is closely monitored and reviewed regularly. There is also a range of strategies used in order to ensure each student is making the best progress possible, for example, small intervention groups, 1:1 lessons for specific subjects and study support sessions.
The DSP has places for 25 students with enhanced statements who would benefit from a greater amount of support, working mainly in small groups with specialist SEN teachers. It is predominantly intended for students who have moderate learning difficulties, but some students have more severe learning difficulties or autistic processing styles. All students are valued members of tutor groups who participate fully in the tutorial programme and electives as well as Sport and Art and Design lessons. Every effort is made to ensure that the curriculum is relevant and engaging, with additional opportunities ranging from growing vegetables to visiting The Galleries of Justice or The National Space Centre.
Tonight you will have the opportunity to meet Katie Aluzzi SENCO for Intervention and Jane Clift SENCO DSP. Please feel free to ask us any questions.
‘I have loved my first full week it has been great making friends and exploring the college.’
(Yr 7 Student 2012)
GIFTED & TALENTEDStudents of all abilities are encouraged to reach their full potential. A G&T co-ordinator monitors the progress of our most able students and ensures that the provision within the school provides the appropriate level of stretch and challenge.
Throughout their school life, students are supported in making potentially life-shaping decisions to ensure they are on the best possible path to future success. We raise the aspirations of all students. This year students benefitted from accessing a mentor, visiting Cambridge University, and taking part in a range of enrichment activities.
Students will have many chances to enrich their skills and studies. There are opportunities, for example, to participate in exchanges and trips abroad for sport, languages, musical performance and science. This year four of our Gifted and Talented science students went to the ‘Extreme Physics’ competition which was held during the Easter holidays at the prestigious Stowe School.
This year plans to be another busy year as we have collaborative days with peers from other Rutland colleges; visiting artists, theatrical troupes; a packed Electives selection with a wide range of activities and courses, external courses and a full programme of extra-curricular subjects and activities after school.
‘Great atmosphere at the school and facilities are second to none’
(Yr 8 Parent 2012)
‘Catmose College has basically amazed me in the first week, ensuring that we have a great time at the school.’
(Yr 7 Student 2012)
ELECTIVESOur electives programme forms a central part of the extra-curricular and enrichment life of the College. All students at the College elect to take short courses that take place on Wednesday afternoons from 12:45 to 2:15pm. They are led by our own teachers, support staff and by visiting tutors who are experts in their field. Students may stay at the College after 2:15pm to access the library or take part in our extra-curricular activities. The electives programme does not in any way replace our diverse range of extra-curricular activities; our full programme of lunch and after College activities will continue.
The programme has been designed to broaden student experience and develop skills that universities and employers find attractive in potential candidates. There is also a strong link between students who take part in a range of extra-curricular activities and successful outcomes in examination results (http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/education/8080865.stm). Students in year 7 are given an electives booklet during their first term at the College. In this booklet students will find details on every elective we offer. This information will include who is running the elective, an overview of what the student will learn, any special equipment required and any cost associated with it. Students will usually take a different elective each term. One of the benefits of the electives programme is that students get to meet students from across the Year 7 – Year 11 age range. The electives programme is subsidised by the College budget. Voluntary contributions will be needed to cover materials, transport, hire of facilities and employing specialist tutors. Students can take home items made. This year we are pleased to be able to offer the Rutland Extended Services Activity Grant which may be applied for to assist with payment towards the elective programme. Details of this grant are sent out with the electives booklet. Electives run at different times during the year and there are compulsory courses that students are required to follow. In year 7 the compulsory course takes place in term 1 and contains a range of sessions designed to smooth the transition from primary to secondary school.
A list of this years choices for electives:
ART & CRAFTCardboard Head SculpturesCrochetCupcake Decorating Cute Crafts Furniture Making Knitwits Make A Vase Mixed Media Jewellery Painting in Acrylic Paper Craft Potter’s WheelPlush Toys Salt Dough Creations Soft Toys Stitched CardsThe Creative Sketchbook Watercolours
MUSIC/ DRAMA & DANCEChamber ChoirChristmas PlaysFlash MobJunior ChoirMusical PerformanceSchool of RockSong Writing 101Street Dance
CAREER BASEDCadetsChildcare KS3Hair & Beauty Starting An Internet Business
Virtual Millionaire
MEDIABBC News School ReportFilm StudiesJournalismMusic TechnologyPhotographyRadio Imagery ProductionSupporter 2 ReporterTheatre Technology
CULTUREBlame CanadaBooster French – Year 9Designing Sustainable CitiesRough Guide To The VikingsGrande Tour EuropeWunderkind - Intro to GermanSwahili and Kenyan CultureTreasure of ArabiaAdventure Service Challenge First AidPersonal Survival Level 1Personal Survival Level 2Simply Signing Venture Force: Ghana 2013VolunteeringFood from Around the WorldIndian BitesMaster ChefVoice Your IdeasBook & Creative Writing ClubYouth Speaks & Debating
Indoor Games and ChessQuizzes, Puzzles, Riddles & ThinkingQuizzersWarhammerPotions
SPORT & LEISUREBadminton & Table TennisBowlingBoxerciseCheerleadingCyclingFencingFly FishingFootballGolfHorse RidingIce Figure SkatingImproving FitnessJudoJunior Athlete Education (JAE)Mountain BikingOrienteeringRock ClimbingSkiingSquashSummer Boot CampSwimmingTennisThai BoxingUltimate FrisbeeWatersportsZumba
HOUSE SYSTEM The House System is central to life at the College and adds to the strong sense of community. Every student at Catmose belongs to one of the four houses: Burley, Barnsdale, Armley and Hambleton. These take their names from the woods around Rutland Water. Experienced staff and House Captains from Year 11 take responsibility for promoting house events, selecting teams and creating a supportive and caring environment. Throughout the year there are over 50 events, with highlights being Sports Day, House Music, Ready Steady Cook and the Poetry competition.
‘We are extremely happy with the education and pastoral care that our children receive. Thank you’
(Yr 8 Parent 2012)
PREFECTSThis evening you will be shown around the College by our team of Prefects. These students play a key role in guiding the student council and being an active role model to our younger students. Prefects volunteer their services to subject teams and help influence a range of decisions. They represent the College at a number of public events and tonight you will hear the Head Boy andGirl talk about their time at Catmose College.
PASTORAL CAREThe quality of pastoral care influences the ethos and tone of the College. It is a crucial part of creating an atmosphere in which young people feel secure, know that they are valued as individuals, and are encouraged in their learning. Each student will be closely supported by a form tutor who will be a regular point of contact and also responsible for delivering a weekly tutorial programme that covers both life and study skills. The College benefits greatly from a designated Client Service team which play an important role in ensuring students make a smooth transition into Year 7. Our team is able to offer access to a range of services including health workers, mentoring, and one to one support.
‘My daughter has gone from strength to strength at Catmose, I cannot recommend it highly enough’
(Yr 9 Parent 2012)
‘As I approached Catmose on my first day, I had a range of emotions. It was excitement and fear all wrapped up in one. I came from a school with only one other person so I knew very few people.
Later on I got into my main classroom and I realised that there was nothing to be scared of because Catmose is just like a big, I mean huge, happy family. As our third lesson approached us I felt so welcome and I knew that Catmose was the perfect school for me.’
(Yr 7 Student 2012)
LIBRARY
The Berners-Lee Library can be found at the top of the ‘Hellerup’ staircase, right in the heart of the College.
As well as a range of books for all levels, the library has a great stock of resources available for students to use, including iPads, digital cameras, video cameras and audio recorders.
Tonight you will meet student librarians who can help answer any questions you may have regarding the use of the library and its facilities. Also, student reporters will be present from our award winning MakeWaves station (www.makewav.es/catmosecollege) who can talk to you about how MakeWaves is used within the curriculum to enrich learning and engagement – they may even interview you about your visit!
The library is open throughout the College day and is a great place for students to study and research in a calm purposeful environment. A homework club is held in the library every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 3.30pm – 4.30pm where teaching staff are available to offer advice and guidance.
‘When I was starting secondary I was a little fish in a big pond. So it was daunting but now I think why was it so daunting? It has been really fun and enjoyable ... I really like Catmose.’
(Yr 7 Student 2012)
