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PROSPECTUS 2010 STRABANE Grammar School

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Page 1: Strabane Grammar Prospectus

P r o s P e c t u s 2 0 1 0

s t r a b a n e Grammar school

Page 2: Strabane Grammar Prospectus

Strabane Grammar School Prospectus 20101

OPEN EVENINGThe 2010 Open Evening for parents and prospective Year 8 pupils will be held on Thursday, 28th January, 2010 at 7.30 p.m. For those who cannot attend on this occasion, visits may be arranged at mutually suitable times.

HOLIDAY ARRANGEMENTSThe school will be closed for most of the months of July and August (except for examination results, careers advice and induction of new pupils). Information about other holidays at Christmas, Easter and mid-term will be sent to parents at the beginning of September.

MISCELLANEOUS MATTERSThe school day begins with classes at 9.05 a.m. There are nine 35 minute periods with Break at 10.15 a.m. and Assembly at 11.40 a.m.; Lunch is taken from 1.00 p.m. to 1.55 p.m. Classes end at 3.40 p.m. Buses transport pupils to and from school bringing them into the school grounds and collecting them there in the afternoon. There is a late bus at 4.30 p.m. every day to facilitate pupils taking extra-curricular activities or sports after school. Pupils come from a wide catchment area and school buses collect them on the main routes from Londonderry, Omagh, Castlederg, Newtownstewart, Ardstraw, etc.

Homework is set in accordance with our Home Study Policy and a schedule is drawn up annually by each Form Teacher.

Recommended home study time ranges from 7 - 10 hours a week in Junior School; for pupils preparing for GCSE and Advanced level exams it should be considerably more.

ADDRESSStrabane Grammar School, Milltown House, 4 Liskey Road, Strabane, Co. Tyrone BT82 8NW

TELEPHONE028 7138 2319 028 7138 2522

FAX028 7138 3506

[email protected]

CHAIRMAN OF BOARD OF GOVERNORSMr P McColgan

HEADMASTERMr L J Lacey B.A. Dip.Ed. D.A.S.E. M.Ed

CLASSIFICATION OF SCHOOLW.E.L.B. Controlled, co-educational, non-denominational, day, grammar school.

Age range of pupils 11 - 19 years

EXPECTED NUMBER OF PUPILS IN 2010/11: Admissions Number: 54 Enrolment Number: 400

Facts about the school

Page 3: Strabane Grammar Prospectus

Strabane Grammar School Prospectus 2010 2

Introduction by the HeadmasterStrabane Grammar School is a controlled, co-educational and non-denominational grammar school. Situated just outside Strabane, it nestles in 23 acres of very attractive wooded grounds. A relatively small school where everyone is known, it caters most effectively for the needs of pupils aged 11 to 18 from all social and religious backgrounds.

This prospectus is designed to give you some insight into the life and work of Strabane Grammar School. I trust you will find it informative and interesting. Many of the strengths of the school will be evident to you as you read it, though it is more difficult to convey on paper the exceptionally warm and friendly relationship which pervades the whole school community. Our aim is to serve the social, personal and academic needs of each individual within a partnership of pupils, staff and parents. Your child will enjoy the benefits of a disciplined happy environment, conducive to study under the guidance and instruction of well-qualified, committed and successful teachers. The school has long had a reputation for academic prowess but care is taken not to neglect the equally important pastoral dimension. We want pupils of Strabane Grammar School to be successful but, just as importantly, we want them to be happy.

There is a proposal to merge pupils and staff from Strabane High School with Strabane Grammar. A new school of 700 pupils will be built which will be

designated and constituted as a grammar school, with the same intake of 54 pupils who sit the AQE transfer test and who will follow an academic curriculum. The new school will also be allowed to admit a similar number of pupils (about 50) whose parents did not want them to sit a test or who did not gain access to the grammar stream. The needs of all pupils will be fully met with a combination of vocational, academic and practical subjects. The new facilities will allow every child to enjoy the best education in purpose built state-of-the-art accommodation. For the first time all children from 11 to 18 will be able to complete their education in the same school and have access to a wide combination of academic and vocational courses which will qualify them to proceed to specific employment or to university and higher education. The proposal is still at an early stage so our pupils will remain on the existing site on the Liskey Road until the new accommodation is completed – possibly in September 2013.

I hope that this prospectus will provide you with sufficient information to stimulate your interest in the school. Any individual information required on policies or organisational arrangements can be obtained from the School Office or by specific enquiries to the Headmaster.

L J Lacey Headmaster

Page 4: Strabane Grammar Prospectus

Strabane Grammar School Prospectus 20103

INTELLECTUAL/ACADEMIC

nTo provide a sound general education in the Junior School; to allow specialisation for GCSE and to provide Sixth Form education relevant to abilities and preferences for higher education and careers.

nTo provide a curriculum which has balance and breadth, and which is relevant to the world about us.

nTo develop study skills so that pupils acquire knowledge relevant to adult life in a changing society.

nTo encourage each pupil to make full use of academic opportunities available.

SOCIAL

nTo enable each pupil to see school as a society to which he/she belongs, to know and understand the rules, and to play an active part in school life.

nTo establish a working partnership between school, parents and community.

nTo equip pupils with the skills needed to develop good relationships and to encourage them to practise co-operation and tolerance.

nTo encourage pupils to have respect for the environment, both natural and man-made.

nTo train pupils in using new technologies.nTo develop an acceptance of responsibility

for one’s own actions.nTo maintain a Christian atmosphere in the school and

encourage the pursuit of Christian principles.

PHYSICAL

nTo encourage pupils to realise the importance of participation in all aspects of life which promote fitness and good health.

nTo encourage interests in physical development through meaningful sporting and recreational activity.

nTo develop an awareness of sporting ideals and realise the value of social contact through sport.

CREATIVE

nTo provide opportunities for participation in a range of cultural activities.

nTo encourage an appreciation of arts, design and crafts and cultural heritage, local, provincial, national and international.

PASTORAL

nTo provide Pastoral Care which will encourage fairness, tolerance, forgiveness, respect, self-discipline and generosity.

aims of the school

Best Girls and Boy at GCSE Rachel Gowdy, Rachel Throne, Graeme McCrabbe

Page 5: Strabane Grammar Prospectus

Strabane Grammar School Prospectus 2010 4

admissions criteria

To Year 8ENTRANCE TEST RESULTSThe Board of Governors has determined that all children resident in Northern lreland at the time of their proposed admission to the School will be selected for admission before any child not so resident. Decisions about how the criteria should be applied to each child will be taken solely on the basis of information provided on or attached to the Transfer Report Form including the score provided by AQE (or awarded as a result of Special Circumstances or Special Provisions) Parents are advised to record the Age Standardised Score awarded by AQE, together with the AQE Candidate Number, in Section C of the Transfer Form and attach the statement of result. Parents should note that they may be required to produce documents verifying information pertinent to the School’s Admissions criteria.

SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES AND/OR SPECIAL PROVISIONStrabane Grammar School has academic performance as its first criterion, subject only to the consideration of medical or other problems which may have affected performance in the Common Entrance Assessment (CEA) and which are supported by documentary evidence of a medical or other appropriate nature. These ‘medical or other problems’ are commonly referred to as ‘special circumstances’

Please note:

nif a claim for the consideration of Special Circumstances is made in respect of matters for which Special Access arrangements were granted, the School will take into account the fact that the applicant was granted Special Access arrangements for those matters

nif a claim for the consideration of Special Circumstances is made in respect of a child’s score in only one assessment the School will take into account that the child’s score is based on the best two results

Parents who wish to apply to the School under Special Circumstances should complete Form SC09 obtainable from AQE, and attach it with appropriate documentary evidence to the Transfer Form, as detailed below.

nDetails of Medical or Other Problems

Where it is claimed that a child’s performance in the CEA has been affected by a medical or other problem, it is the responsibility of the parents to set out in the Form SC09 precise details of the problem and append evidence to corroborate its existence.

Where the problem is a medical one of short term duration which affected the pupil only at the time of the CEA, the School will give greater weight to evidence that the pupil was examined by a medical practitioner in relation to the illness at the time of the assessment.

Where the problem is of a non-medical nature the parents should set out in the Form SC09 precise details of the problem and append any appropriate evidence to corroborate its existence.

nEducational Evidence

The score achieved in the Common Entrance Assessment.

Objective documentary evidence must be provided by the parents. This may include the results for the applicant of any standardised tests conducted in Year 5, Year 6 and Year 7 and the results in any end of year tests in English and Mathematics.

Parents may also provide additional comparative information verified by the Primary School and attach this to the Transfer form.

The Admissions Sub Committee will consider the application for Special circumstances. Where this is accepted, the panel will determine, on the basis of the information available, an appropriate score for the child. Such children will then be considered with all other children who have received a CEA score and the Admissions criteria applied.

Prize Night Sarah Friars, guest speaker and past pupil, Head Girl Janine Pollock, Mr Lacey (Headmaster) Head Boy Damien O’Kane and Mr McColgan Chairman of the Board of Governers

Page 6: Strabane Grammar Prospectus

Strabane Grammar School Prospectus 20105

SPECIAL PROVISIONSSpecial provisions will apply for:

(a) Children whose parents wish them to transfer from schools outside Northern Ireland.

(b) Children who have received more than half their primary education outside Northern Ireland;

(c) Children, entered for the AQE Common Entrance Assessments, who because of unforeseen and serious medical or other problems which are supported by appropriate independent documentary evidence, were unable to participate in any of the assessments.

Note: It is expected that all those seeking admission should sit the AQE CEA, with the exception of those applicants who take up residence in Northern Ireland after the start of Year 7.

Parents who wish to apply to the School under Special Provisions should complete Form SC09 obtainable from AQE stating the precise reason why they believe the applicant is eligible for consideration under Special Provisions. This should be sent to the School with appropriate independent documentary evidence.

The Admissions Sub Committee of the Board of Governors will consider the application for Special Provisions. Where this is granted, the following procedures will apply:

nThe School will consider any accredited assessments including information supplied by the child’s Primary School, and will accept additional objective evidence of the child’s academic ability.

nThe Admissions Committee will determine, on the basis of all the available information, an appropriate assessment of the child. Such children will then be considered with all other children who have received a CEA score and the above Admissions criteria applied.

ADMISSIONS CRITERIAIn the event of the school being oversubscribed the Board of Governors has approved the criteria described below and has delegated the task of applying these criteria to the Principal. Decisions in respect of “Special Circumstances” and “Special Provisions” are taken in consultation with the Admissions Sub Committee to whom decision-making powers have been delegated by the full Board of Governors. Further reference, therefore, to the Board of Governors may imply the Admissions Sub Committee or the Principal.

The Board of Governors will first consider for admission to Year 8, children who have taken the AQE Common Entrance Assessment and been awarded a standardised score by AQE, subject only to the consideration of those children claiming “Special Provisions”, as defined above.

Consideration will also be given to those children claiming “Special Circumstances”, as defined above, in respect of medical or other problems which may have affected performance in the Common Entrance Assessment.

Strabane Grammar School will not use as a criterion the position of preference given to the school on the Transfer Form; for example, a child who has chosen Strabane Grammar School as a second

preference school will be considered in the same way as all first preference applicants.

If the number of applications is greater than the Admissions Number, the following criteria shall be applied in the order set down below.

1. Children who have taken the AQE Common Entrance Assessment and been awarded a score by AQE, or awarded a score as a result of Special Circumstances or Special Provisions, as defined below, will be considered before other children. Pupils will be placed in strict rank order of marks, so that higher scores precede lower scores. Where there are children with the same score applying for the last available place, the criteria set out in paragraph 2 below will be applied.

2. lf there are still places available after consideration of all the children who have taken the AQE Common Entrance Assessment and been awarded a score by AQE, or awarded a score as a result of Special Circumstances or Special Provisions, the School will consider for admission any children who have not taken the AQE Common Entrance Assessment. Children from this pool will be allocated to the remaining places up to the School’s Admissions Number using the criteria listed below.

(i) Children who have a sibling¹ currently attending the school or who are the eldest /only² child in the family

(ii) Children who are transferring from Controlled Primary Schools(iii) Children who are transferring from Maintained Primary Schools(iv) The age of the child, preference being given to the eldest child

(established by date-of-birth on the Birth Certificate)

¹ Where applicable “sibling” is defined as another child of the family [Article 2(2) of the Domestic proceedings (Nl) Order 1980] to include, for example, half-brothers and sisters, together with children who are adopted or fostered.

² Twins and other multiples who are eldest in the family are treated as joint eldest children.

lf the Admissions Number is exceeded by the application of a particular criterion, then the remaining criteria will be used, in turn, as necessary to reduce the number of children still being considered for places until the correct Admissions Number is reached.

In the unlikely event, in criterion (iv) above, of two or more children having the same birthday, children will be selected by establishing a rank order determined on the basis of the alphabetical order of surnames A to Z, using the surname as entered on the Birth Certificate or Adopted Children’s Register. In the event that two or more such children have identical surnames then the rank order will be determined on the basis of the alphabetical order of the initials of the forenames (as entered on the birth certificate). In the event of the matter not being resolved using the above methods computer generated random selection will be used.

SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDSThe procedures for children in receipt of a Statement of Special Educational Needs will operate outside the normal enrolment procedures in order to ensure that such children are provided with the most appropriate school placement. Further advice may be obtained from WELB/ESA, as appropriate.

Page 7: Strabane Grammar Prospectus

Strabane Grammar School Prospectus 2010 6

ADMISSIONS TO YEAR 8 FOLLOwING COMPLETION OF THE TRANSFER PROCEDUREShould the Board of Governors determine that a child who has arrived in Northern Ireland after the Transfer Process has been concluded is suitable for admission, and our Admissions Number has been reached, it will seek approval from the Department of Education to admit the child through the allocation of an additional place.

Parents/Guardians who wish to have their child considered for admission in the event of a place arising after the beginning of the school year should write to the Principal stating this. An acknowledgement will be issued. If any place(s) become available after 1st September 2010 and there are more applicants than places available, then decisions will be made on application of the Year 8 Admissions Criteria to those children seeking admission at the time the place(s) become available. When the Board of Governors considers that the admission of the child would prejudice the efficient use of resources it may refuse admission.

It is the responsibility of parents to ensure that all information on the above relevant factors is given on the child’s Transfer Form and in documents attached thereto.

lf the Board of Governors becomes aware of

(a) Any material irregularity in the application made to the Association for Quality Education Limited in connection with the prescribed test or

(b) Any falsification of any documents submitted to the Association for Quality Education Limited in connection with the prescribed test, or

(c) Any material breach of the conditions on the part of the child or his parents or guardians relating to the prescribed test

The Board reserves the right to reject the application of such a child.

THE VERIFICATION OF INFORMATIONThose making applications should note that the information contained within an application that qualifies the child for admission will be verified. The Board of Governors therefore reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any application form/Transfer Form. This information will be requested from those whose applications have been successful on or shortly after 30 May 2010 when they have been notified of their allocation of a place at Strabane Grammar School. Those making applications should also note the provision of false information or incorrect information, or the failure to provide verifying documents according to the required deadline, may result in either the withdrawal of a place or the inability of the school to offer a place.

ADMISSION TO YEARS 13 & 14As Year 12 numbers could be in excess of the anticipated Admissions Number for Year 13, GCSE grades will be converted to points using the following allocations:

A* = 4 A = 3 B = 2 C = 1

The total number for each applicant, for the school’s own Year 12 and for outside candidates, will be used to determine a cut-off point below which pupils will not be accepted back, except in very special circumstances. Pupils will be expected to have grade B or better in the subjects they propose to take to AS level. This requirement may not be necessary in relation to pupils taking Applied GCE courses. Some subjects may be taken at ‘A’ level without having completed a GCSE e.g. Business Studies, History, I.C.T. and Health & Social Care.

INFORMATION ABOUT APPLICATIONS AND ADMISSIONS

Year of APPLICANTS ADMISSIONS Admission Number with Transfer Grade Total Number with Transfer Grade Total

A B1 B2 C1 C2 D A B1 B2 C1 C2 D

2009 / 2010 39 10 7 6 9 6 77 38 10 6 0 0 0 54

2008 / 2009 44 7 10 5 9 1 76 43 7 5 2* 0 0 57

2007 / 2008 26 15 9 3 8 0 61 26 15* 9* 3* 3* 0 56

2006 / 2007 36 11 10 7 7 2 73 36 11 10* 0 0 0 57

2005 / 2006 40 12 11 7 1 4 75 40 12 5 1 0 0 60#

2004 / 2005 31 8 12 9 9 5 73 31 7 12 4 1* 0 55

2003 / 2004 36 13 6 9 6 1 72 36 13 5 1* 0 0 55

2002 / 2003 36 13 11 7 7 3 77 36 13 5 0 0 0 54

2001 / 2002 36 12 6 10 5 5 74 36 12 6 0 0 0 54

2000 / 2001 38 9 14 11 2 1 75 38 9 8 3* 0 0 58

* Some of these pupils were upgraded or were admitted after an Appeals Tribunal ** Two pupils were statemented so did not need to sit the Transfer test

Page 8: Strabane Grammar Prospectus

Strabane Grammar School Prospectus 20107

A broad curriculum is followed by all pupils. It is designed to provide a breadth of experience and an academic depth as well as being relevant to the world of work.

KEY STAGE 3Pupils in Years 8 - 10 follow courses in the following subjects:

Art & Design, English, Citizenship, Employability, French, Geography, German, History, Home Economics, Information Technology, Mathematics, Music, Personal, Social & Health Education including Careers Advice, Physical Education, Religious Studies, Science and Technology.

All Year 10 pupils complete the Certificate of Competence in Information Technology at the higher levels.

KEY STAGE 4Pupils in Years 11 - 12 are prepared for GCSE examinations, normally at the highest levels, in 9 to 12 subjects. They will take various combinations of subjects from the following list of the 21 currently being offered:

Additional Mathematics, Art & Design, Biology, Business Studies, Chemistry, Double Award Science, English Language, English Literature, French, Geography, German, History, Home Economics, Mathematics, Music, Physics, Physical Ed ucation, Religious Studies, Technology & Design, Information & Communications Technology and Learning for Life and work.

KEY STAGE 5In Years 13 and 14 pupils could choose subjects from a range of GCE AS levels, A2 levels, Applied A levels and Key Skills. The following is a list of 27 subjects currently being offered:

Art & Design, Agriculture, Biology, Business Studies, Chemistry, Child Development, Construction, Computer Games, Information & Communication Technology, Engineering, English Literature, French, Geography, German, History, Home Economics, Single Award Health and Social Care, Leisure, Mathematics, Media Production, Music, Music Technology, Physical Education/Sports Studies, Physics, Religious Studies and Technology & Design.

With guidance from careers staff, pupils entering Year 13 will be encouraged to create a study portfolio from a range of curriculum opportunities which, while retaining the present academic rigour, will also provide a breadth of experience that will enhance their options for entry to Further and Higher Education.

Other examinations taken are a Sentinus Food Science and Sentinus Engineering ‘Gold Crest’ awards, the European Studies Programme and Key Skills in Communication.

INTERNATIONAL LINKSPupils and staff participate in cross-curricular communication with partner schools in Denmark, France, Hungary and the North and South of Ireland. The school annually celebrates the European Day of Languages with a wide range of activities, and the European Studies group participates in the ‘Euroscola’ competition, the European Youth Parliament and the International Award Scheme. Every year we welcome language assistants to our teaching staff to complement classroom teaching and provide greater knowledge of our target language countries. We are currently applying for the International School Award, which would recognise our efforts and desire to promote awareness, knowledge and respect for other cultures and societies. Pupils frequently have the opportunity to take part in exchanges, where they have opportunity for cultural and leisure activities, whilst experiencing at first-hand life in a French or German family and school. Multi-media opportunities further improve communication skills and competency in Information and Computer Technology. Strabane Grammar School continues to be recognized as an “Outward and Forward-Looking School”.

curricular Provision

European Studies Day - Liam Caldwell

Prefect Training Gortatole

Page 9: Strabane Grammar Prospectus

Strabane Grammar School Prospectus 2010 8

These are also an important part of school life. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme continues to thrive under Mr Birkett’s control, helped at Silver level by Miss Somers. Following on from the exciting expedition to Kenya, Mr Birkett’s energy and enthusiasm led him to organise a World Challenge Expedition to Brazil, which from all accounts was a fantastic experience for all.

Sport continues to play an important part in school life. Last season all teams performed well against tough opposition. In hockey there were five teams entered in league and cup competitions. The U16 XI was the most successful almost winning NW League. Rugby had a successful season with the 1st XV reaching the 3rd round of the Cup. In cricket the U19 girls’ team won through to the final of the Schools’ Cup and the boys 1st X1 reached the semi final of the Plate competition.

In Athletics Sean McBride won Senior Boys’ Javelin in the Ulster Schools’ Championships and placed second in the All Ireland Championships. In Karate Stephanie Gallagher won a gold medal in the Ulster Championships and went on to represent Northern Ireland in the World Championships.

Music and DramaMany pupils are involved in some form of music or drama. This year with House Competitions, ‘Stars in Your Eyes’ and the ‘Back to the 80’s’ musical many pupils benefited from some form of participation. Our thanks go to Miss Hopkins, Mrs McCaughey and other staff who help our pupils develop their musical and acting talent.

Scripture Union continues to thrive at both junior and senior levels, meeting regularly at school and several forms of outreach and charity work are organised and very well supported.

The SENTINUS Engineering Scheme provokes much interest and this year and the team went on to win a Gold Crest Award for solving an engineering problem. The team, led by Mr White, included Peter

Riddles, Janine Pollock, Connor Loughrey, Jason Hamilton and Aaron Campbell. A Sentinus Gold Crest Award was also achieved for Food Science. Its team, led by Dr Dunn and Mr Haughey, included David Young, Aoife O’Donnell and Rebecca Hunter.

The development of team building and personal skills was extended to all Year 8 pupils through a week of outdoor pursuits at Gortatole, which helps the first year’s to get to know each other in a more informal environment. Much valuable charity work takes place. Last year the school raised over £6000 – many of the events organised or initiated by pupils as well as staff. This is a huge figure for a school of 400 pupils.

These are just a few examples of the diversity of talent and opportunities at Strabane Grammar and reflect our aim to develop and encourage pupil potential in all areas, not just academic.

extra-curricular activities

Silver Duke of Edinburgh Expedition

Ski Trip Newhampshire

Page 10: Strabane Grammar Prospectus

Strabane Grammar School Prospectus 20109

Technology - Jamie McBride Year 8

Year 10 - Home EconomicsRugby Tour to Rome

Stars in Their Eyes Chloe Wilders as Miley Cyrus

Page 11: Strabane Grammar Prospectus

Strabane Grammar School Prospectus 2010 10

POSITIVE BEHAVIOUR MANAGEMENTA detailed policy on school discipline and a set of school rules are available to parents on request from the Headmaster. A copy is included in the Day Book for pupils and parents to see.

The school has always enjoyed a high standard of discipline and the policy is based on the following assumptions and principles:

nChildren and adults have a right to be respected.nGood discipline is best promoted by a curriculum and teaching

methods which are appropriate to pupils’ needs.nUnacceptable behaviour can be changed.

The policy is implemented by the pastoral staff (Section Heads and Form Teachers) and/or by academic staff (Heads of Departments and class teachers) and, if necessary, by a Vice Principal and Headmaster.

The school is justly proud of the happy environment and the excellent relationships that exist among pupils and between staff and pupils. A DAY BOOK helps pupils, parents and teachers to be better informed about daily progress and to make them aware of quality of work, punctuality, behaviour and other notable achievements/practices. By the end of a school year the Day Book will hopefully contain records about which each pupil and parent will be justly proud.

To help fulfil the school aims all teachers have responsibility for the pastoral care of pupils but in addition a Form Teacher is given specific responsibility for the welfare of a class group. He/she will liaise with parents, monitor academic progress, counsel pupils and deliver the Personal and Social Education programme.

Parents’ Evenings are arranged so that teachers, parents and pupils can discuss progress. Reports on pupil attainment are also sent twice yearly. Parents may, at any mutually convenient time, make an appointment to talk to staff about any concerns they may have. Form Teachers play a pivotal role in the partnership between parents, staff and pupils.

RELIGIOUS STUDIESIn Religious Studies pupils have two periods a week in Years 8-10 and a GCSE course in Religious Studies is taught in Years 11 and 12. An ’A’ level is available in Years 13 and 14. Parents who do not wish their children to participate in Religious Studies classes, morning assemblies or special services should make such a request in writing to the Headmaster, who will make alternative arrangements for these pupils.

CHILD PROTECTION*The school shall refer any concerns about the well-being of its pupils to the Social Services Department to protect pupils in its care and to comply with the Department of Education (NI) regulations. Pupils may speak to the Designated Teacher for Child Protection, Mrs McCaughey, or the Deputy Designated Teacher for Child Protection, Mrs Stewart.

ANTI-BULLYING POLICY*

AIMTo make the school a safe environment in which everyone can feel safe, so that all pupils will be able to benefit from the opportunities available at the school.

DRUG AND SOLVENT ABUSE*POLICY ON SUBSTANCE MISUSEThe aims of the school as set out in the Prospectus and in the Staff Handbook, promote positive attitudes in the academic, social, physical, creative and pastoral experiences of the pupils. The school policy on Tobacco, Alcohol, Drug and Volatile Substances Misuse revolves around prevention and response and springs from the pastoral dimension.

PREVENTIONStrabane Grammar School aims to prevent the misuse of substances (illegal drugs, prescription drugs, volatile substances, alcohol and tobacco) through its school rules, smoking policy and drugs education programme. The school rules about substance misuse will be available to all pupils at all times, (e.g. in the Day Books).

RESPONSEEach member of staff in Strabane Grammar School has been made aware of the problems, signs and symptoms of drug and solvent abuse and has a responsibility to adhere to and promote this Policy. Opportunities will be created to regularly update staff in

* Full copies of policies on Anti-bullying, Child Protection, Special Needs, Charging, Discipline and Substance Misuse are available from the school office.

Pastoral care

Year 8 pupils supporting the Shoe Box Appeal

Page 12: Strabane Grammar Prospectus

Strabane Grammar School Prospectus 201011

ALL PUPILS RECEIVE: A PLANNED PROGRAMME OF CAREERS EDUCATION AND GUIDANCE.This is a programme appropriate to individual needs which will give students knowledge of their skills and abilities and help them to make informed decisions about their future. The programme is delivered in modular form as a component of the Employability curriculum, in Years 8 - 10. Students in Years 11-14 will follow a separate Careers programme, involving aspects of career awareness, exploration and planning.

ACCESS TO INFORMATION:Outside speakers are invited to talk to interested groups and targeted audiences. Where appropriate, vocational visits are organised to local businesses and agencies, thereby ensuring that up-to-date and reliable information about careers opportunities, education and training is readily available to all students. The school has a purpose built Careers Suite incorporating a study area which can also be used for interviews. These facilities, along with Computer Software, enable students to make effective career choices during the transitions that affect their future education.

EXPERIENCE OF wORK:Students in Year 13 have the opportunity to go on work experience for which they have been thoroughly prepared. Such experience is essential as many universities are viewing it as a prerequisite for access to many courses. This is further developed with emphasis on Interview Skills, Study Skills and other links with a Business/Education partnership, Industry Matters and Young Business Enterprise schemes.

Further curriculum development initiatives include the Company programme, which provides practical business experience through running a company. Project Business UK, a partnership between education and business for Year 11 pupils, also helps to develop business skills at an early age.

INDIVIDUAL GUIDANCE:Pupils in Years 10, 12 and 14 all have individual interviews at the appropriate times in their school year. This guidance is from school staff who have relevant and up-to-date training, is confidential, free from bias and is regularly reviewed, giving students an opportunity to discuss, agree and review an action plan. In addition, Year 12 students are involved in the ‘Getting Connected’ Programme organised by the Careers Service, and each pupil receives an interview with the Careers Officer during the year. Year 14 students are also given the opportunity to have individual mock interviews and feedback for certain high-demand courses by the Careers Department in school.

ACADEMIC SUCCESS2008/09 was another outstanding year for examination results. At ‘A2’ Level there was a 100% pass rate and 88% of the grades achieved were in the A to C category. The percentage of pupils who gained 3 or more A – C Grades was again above average with 20% of pupils achieving 3 or more A grades. Almost half the year group achieved exclusively A or B grades.

This is the first year of results in the new vocational ‘A’ levels in Engineering, Media Studies and Child Care & Development in which over 70% of pupils achieved A grades / Distinctions.

At GCSE level there was an overall pass rate of 99%, remarkably almost 50% of grades were in the A*/A category. The entire year group gained 5 or more A* - C grades.

These results again placed us among the top scoring schools in Northern Ireland in various league tables for our combined A level and GCSE performance.

From a subject point of view at GCSE there was 100% pass rate in 14 out of 19 subjects. The effect was that almost all of our Year 12 earned the points to return to study A level so our Sixth Form continues to expand. The school is now oversubscribed in every year group with applications from parents who want their children to attend. Regardless of league tables all the pupils who did their best, whatever the outcome, deserve praise.

This level of achievement, year on year, reflects the dedication and expertise of staff as well as the good relationships between staff, pupils and parents.

careers educationYear 8 Learn to Earn Seminar

Top A Level student Rachel McCrabbe

Page 13: Strabane Grammar Prospectus

Strabane Grammar School Prospectus 2010 12

The aim of the Physical Education Department is to establish a carefully structured programme following the Northern Ireland Programme of Study in Physical Education, which reflects the aims of Strabane Grammar School.

The Physical Education programme will:-

nContribute to the physical development of each child through the promotion of skills acquisition and competence in a range of physical activities.

nContribute to the social education of the individual by providing opportunities for pupils to co-operate with one another and to share the value of sports and games through a sense of satisfaction and achievement from play.

nPromote in each pupil a keen interest in and knowledge of physical activity and its contribution to the maintenance of life-long personal health and fitness.

nPrepare pupils to make active, creative and purposeful use of their leisure time throughout their lives.

nEnable pupils to gain enjoyment and an aesthetic appreciation of movement through purposeful and progressive activity.

nPromote healthy attitudes towards success and failure.nBe aware of the benefits of Physical Education as a means of

helping to cope with stress related problems.

These aims are met by the comprehensive and varied programme of curricular and extra curricular sports available at the school.

SPORTS FACILITIES AVAILABLE:1 Assembly Hall/Gymnasium4 Tennis Courts/1 Netball Court/1Basketball Court1 All Weather Pitch1 Multi Gym/Fitness Suite1 Rugby/Cricket Pitch1 Rugby/Football PitchCricket Nets

OFF-SITE FACILITIES:Golf Centre (hired for 6th Form games)Strabane Rugby ClubMelvin Hall (hired for games, hockey and football matches)Riversdale Leisure Centre (hired for games, spinning and swimming)Strabane High School

TIME ALLOCATED TO SPORT:Years 8 - 10: 1 double and 1 single period of PE per weekYear 11: 1 double period of PE per weekYears 11 -12: GCSE PE 5 periods per weekYear 12: 1 triple period of PE per weekYears 13 - 14: 1 double period of PE per weekYears 13 - 14: A Level PE 16 periods per week

23 hours per week are timetabled for sport within the Curriculum with much more taking place at lunchtime, after school and on Saturdays.

LIST OF SPORTS AVAILABLE TO PUPILS:Aerobics, Athletics, Badminton, Basketball, Cricket, Cross-Country, Dance, Tennis, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme, Football, Gymnastics, Health-Related Exercise, Golf, Hiking, Hockey, Netball, Orienteering, Rounders, Rugby, Skiing, Spinning, Swimming, Table Tennis, Volleyball, Lacrosse, Softball, Tag Rugby and Weight Training.

EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES:Badminton, Cricket, Dance, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme, Football, Hiking, Hockey and Rugby.

Physical education Programme

Strabane Grammar School Girls Cricket Team

XV Rugby Team Stuart Hamilton

Junior Football Team

Page 14: Strabane Grammar Prospectus

Strabane Grammar School Prospectus 201013

2009 KS 3 ASSESSMENT OUTCOMES

YEAR 10 RESULTS OF TEACHER ASSESSMENT AND EXTERNAL TESTS

The % of pupils in Year 10 achieving level

STRABANE GRAMMAR SCHOOL RESULTS

Level 4 5 6 7

English: Teacher Assessment 0 14 52 34

Maths: Teacher Assessment 0 10 34 56

Science: Teacher Assessment 0 2 36 62

Information Technology 0 0 0 100

KEY SKILL IN COMMUNICATION - YEAR 13

Percentage of pupils entered Level Percentage gaining full award

100 3 100%

GRADED OBJECTIVES IN MODERN LANGUAGES - GERMAN RESULTS

Number of Year 10 Pupils Entered Level Percentage gaining full award

1 1 100%

49 2 100%

Number of Year 9 Pupils Entered Level Percentage gaining full award

57 1 100%

GCSE EXAMINATION RESULTS

Number in final year % pupils entered % pupils achieving

Grades A* - C Grades A* - C

56 7 or more subjects - 100 7 or more subjects - 97

5 or more subjects - 100 5 or more subjects - 100

1 - 4 subjects - 0 No GCSEs - 0

Public examination results

Page 15: Strabane Grammar Prospectus

Strabane Grammar School Prospectus 2010 14

GCSE RESULTS BY % Total A* A B C D E F G U

Biology 14 7.1 42.9 50 0 0 0 0 0 0

Chemistry 14 14.3 50 28.6 7.1 0 0 0 0 0

Physics 14 21.4 50 28.6 0 0 0 0 0 0

Science (DA) 82 12.2 29.3 41.5 17.1 0 0 0 0 0

Mathematics 55 41.8 21.8 25.5 10.9 0 0 0 0 0

Mathematics Additional 18 11.1 50 33.3 5.6 0 0 0 0 0

ICT 32 0 18.8 50 31.3 0 0 0 0 0

Design & Technology 13 23.1 61.5 15.4 0 0 0 0 0 0

Home Economics 22 4.5 18.2 45.5 22.7 9.1 0 0 0 0

Art & Design 13 15.4 53.8 30.8 0 0 0 0 0 0

Geography 28 10.7 21.4 42.9 25 0 0 0 0 0

History 22 22.7 31.8 27.3 9.1 9.1 0 0 0 0

Religious Studies 36 11.1 33.3 38.9 13.9 0 2.8 0 0 0

Learning for Life & work 54 3.7 46.3 31.5 9.3 9.3 0 0 0 0

English Language 55 1.8 9.1 49.1 32.7 7.3 0 0 0 0

English Literature 16 0 6.3 62.5 25 6.3 0 0 0 0

French 41 17.1 41.5 36.6 4.9 0 0 0 0 0

German 11 0 18.2 72.7 9.1 0 0 0 0 0

Music 11 0 0 72.7 27.3 0 0 0 0 0

GCSE Subject prize winners

Page 16: Strabane Grammar Prospectus

Strabane Grammar School Prospectus 201015

‘A’ LEVEL EXAMINATION RESULTS

Number in Final Year % Pupil Achieving

52 3 or more A-C - 65%

2 or more A-E - 100%

A’ LEVEL RESULTS BY % Total A B C D E U

Business 8 0 0 25 37.5 37.5 0

Health & Social Care 8 0 75 25 0 0 0

ICT 11 18.2 18.2 27.3 27.3 9.1 0

Biology 13 53.8 30.8 15.4 0 0 0

Chemistry 5 80 0 20 0 0 0

Physics 13 38.5 7.7 23.1 30.8 0 0

Mathematics 16 75 6.3 6.3 12.5 0 0

Art & Design 3 66.7 33.3 0 0 0 0

Geography 13 46.2 30.8 15.4 7.7 0 0

History 15 13.3 13.3 60 6.7 6.7 0

Religious Studies 16 18.8 43.8 37.5 0 0 0

English Literature 6 50 33.3 0 16.7 0 0

French 3 33.3 33.3 33.3 0 0 0

Music 2 0 0 50 50 0 0

Sport/PE Studies 8 37.5 12.5 37.5 12.5 0 0

Design & Technology 3 0 0 100 0 0 0

PERFORMANCE IN PUBLIC EXAMINATION 2003/04 TO 2007/08 N. Ireland Grammar Schools’ Averages compared to Strabane Grammar School

2003/04 2004/05 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08Performance Indicator SGS NI SGS NI SGS NI SGS NI SGS NI

% achieving 5+ GCSEs Grades A* - C

100 96 96 96 100 96 96 96 100 96

% achieving 7+ GCSEs Grades A* - C

93 91 88 90 93 91 88 90 100 90

% achieving 3+ A levels Grades A - C

70 71 70 68 70 71 70 73 72 72

% achieving 2+ A levels Grades A – E

100 99 100 99 100 99 100 99 100 99

Public examination results

Page 17: Strabane Grammar Prospectus

Strabane Grammar School Prospectus 2010 16

CHARGING POLICY*A full Statement of Charging Policy is available at the school but the main charges are as follows:

(i) board and lodging on residential visits.(ii) the costs associated with the provision of individual tuition

on a musical instrument whether inside or outside school hours, unless it is provided as part of the syllabus.

(iii) the costs of entering a pupil for a non-approved public examination and for preparing the pupil for that examination outside school hours.

(iv) the cost of entering a pupil to resit an approved public examination.

(v) the cost of entering a pupil for a second approved public examination in the same academic year when preparation by the school enables the pupil to take more than one examination in that subject (often referred to as a double entry).

(vi) the cost of entering a pupil for an approved public examination,

the pupil failing to sit the examination or withdrawing from the examination twenty one days after the closing date of entry.

(vii) the cost of any re-scrutiny of examination results if such a re-scrutiny is requested by the parents.

(viii) the cost, in cash or kind, of ingredients or materials needed for practical subjects if parents have indicated in advance a wish to own the finished product.

(ix) the cost, in cash or kind, for paper and ink used for ICT throughout the school other than for normal class work.

(x) the cost of photocopying or laminating pupils work.(xi) tuition fees for individual tuition in the playing of a musical

instrument provided by the Board’s peripatetic tutors.(xii) for damage to other pupils’ property or school property

resulting from improper behaviour on the part of a pupil.(xiii) voluntary contributions to clubs and societies, Parents’

Association membership and insurance at the beginning of each year (currently £30).

additional Information

SCHOOL UNIFORMSchool colours are royal blue, grey, red and white.

Girls wear a royal blue blazer, grey skirt, grey sweater and white shirt;

Boys wear a royal blue blazer, black trousers, grey sweater and white shirt.

Precise details of clothing, together with the names of suppliers, are listed in a separate uniform guide available to all pupils accepted for admission. School uniform is compulsory and pupils are expected to co-operate fully about regulation wear.

CANTEENThe canteen in the school, which is under the control of the Board’s Catering Services, is open daily for breakfast, morning breaks and lunch. A varied range of freshly cooked meals is available which includes traditional, ethnic and dishes from around the world. There is also a variety of hot and cold snacks, drinks and salads. Our staff will, where possible, strive to meet the individual needs of their customers

COMPLAINTS PROCEDUREComplaints shall be dealt with in accordance with Article 33 of the Education Reform (N.I.) Order 1989 and regulations as subsequently made by the Department of Education.

ANNUAL ATTENDANCE RATE (ALL PUPILS)Total days attended by all pupils on roll as % of total possible days was 96%

Craig Peters Yr 8 High Jump

AS Art and Design Lesley Wallace

Corey & Stephanie Gallagher Karate World Championships

A Level Science

Page 18: Strabane Grammar Prospectus

Strabane Grammar School Prospectus 201017

DESTINATION OF SCHOOL LEAVERSDESTINATION YEAR 12 YEAR 13 YEAR 14

No. % No. % No. %

Another School 1 1.7 - - - -

F.E. - - - - 5 9

H.E. - - - - 44 80

Employment - - - - - -

Gap Year - - - - 6 11

Total leavers 1 - - - 55 -

Total in Year Group 56 - - - 55 100

additional Information

Formal 2009

Page 19: Strabane Grammar Prospectus

A.D. McClay & Company

Many thanks to all these companies for their financial contribution towards the printing of this prospectus.

Page 20: Strabane Grammar Prospectus

Strabane Grammar School 4 Liskey Road, Strabane, BT82 8NW

Co Tyrone, Northern Ireland

Tel: (028) 71 382319/71 382522 Fax: (028) 71 383506

E-mail: [email protected]

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