Bedford Academy

PROSPECTUS Welcome to Bedford Academy

Welcome to Bedford Academy, part of HEART Academies Trust. I am hopeful that this prospectus provides you with enough information about what it means to be part of our school. We are first and foremost a community-minded school who put our students at the centre of everything we do.

Bedford Academy provides a fantastic foundation for success. Our structured pastoral support for the next steps in your child’s education, programme enables the key focus during school whatever pathway they choose to follow. We hours to be on developing students’ love of recognise that every individual is unique and we learning. encourage individuality, challenging stereotypes and demonstrating a commitment to removing Our outstanding facilities and building create an barriers to learning, so that everyone has the environment where both staff and students can same life opportunities. thrive. We work together to ensure students are ready, respectful and safe - fully prepared to face We provide consistent support, guidance and every challenge that the modern world throws at challenge for your child, helping them to become them. Our outward facing approach has allowed well-rounded, thoughtful and responsible us to build a school that really is at the HEART of members of the local and wider community. We our local community. have high expectations and provide a firm but fair approach that helps to develop an individual’s Our curriculum pathways allows students to social intelligence. Our insistence on core establish a thirst for knowledge and an eagerness fundamentals such as a smart appearance, good to learn, whilst our committed and talented punctuality and attendance, and a willingness to staff are driven to achieve the highest possible always try your best creates a mindset to support outcomes for all the students they interact with students development in their journey as young on a daily basis. adults. This is a great time to study at Bedford Academy. We recognise the key role that parents and Welcome to our school! carers play in the development of student aspirations and understand the importance of Mr C Deller working relationships between home and school. Head Teacher Our partnership agreement supports this and identifies clearly what we must do together to ensure every child has the same opportunity

2 Our Sponsor Our Vision Our Values

As a charity which works to help people in and HEART Academies Trust aims to create a family of schools who There are 6 key themes that make up our code of conduct or around Bedford, The Harpur Trust is proud to sponsor are at the heart of their community improving life chances for all shared values for the school. We call this ‘The BA Way’. This HEART Academies Trust. through challenge and support. provides all stakeholders with clarity and purpose about what we expect from everyone whilst they are in our school community. The Harpur Trust has existed in the town since 1566 when Sir William Harpur, and his wife Dame Alice, created an endowment COMMUNITY MINDED The 6 key themes are: to sustain a school in Bedford. The endowment also made • Attendance provision for the marriage of poor maids of the town, for THROUGH DRIVE • Lessons deprived children to be nourished and informed and for any • Conduct residue to be distributed to the poor of the town. AND ASPIRATION • Uniform • Rights and Responsibilities Today, the work of The Harpur Trust is still very much based DRIVEN • Environment on this legacy. Their aims are clear and simple; they are here to The passion to get better and better inspire and support people in the Borough of Bedford to improve For more information about The BA Way, visit the Bedford their lives by: at something that matters. Academy website. • providing and promoting education COMMUNITY MINDED • offering help and relief to anyone who is sick, in need, The will to do what we do in hardship or distress the service of something bigger • providing recreational facilities with a social welfare purpose than ourselves.

Over 1,100 people in Bedford work for The Harpur Trust, either directly or in one of their schools, making it the town’s third ASPIRATIONAL largest local employer. The commitment to improve life chances. For more information visit www.harpurtrust.org.uk or call 01234 369500. These motivators underpin everything we do as a Trust. Through applying them on a daily basis Bedford Academy strives to:

• Have a relentless focus on good relationships and high standards for all • Create engaged learners by ensuring all children and young people receive high quality teaching every lesson, every day through the delivery of our knowledge rich curriculum • Value and celebrate the success of ourselves and others, encouraging young people to learn from their mistakes and take ownership of their own decision making • Remain focused on providing the best possible education for the community we serve

3 Organisation Timings of the Academy Day Structure 8.30 Start of School Day for Students

The Academy is organised into Learning Villages 8.30 - 9.00 Preparation Time in Tutor Groups based upon the following combinations of 9.00 - 10.00 Period 1 subjects: First Break 10.00 - 10.20 Year 7, 8 and Sixth Form • Communications (English and world 9.00 - 11.20 Period 2 languages) Second Break 11.00 - 11.20 Year 9, 10 and 11 • Maths and Computing 11.20 - 12.20 Period 3 • Humanities • Science and Technology (incorporating First Lunch 12.20 - 12.55 Year 7 and Year 8 Business) • Arts and Sport Period 4 Second Lunch 12.55 - 13.30 Year 9 and Year 10 Each Year Group is assigned to a Learning Village Third Lunch 13.30 - 14.00 and this will form their pastoral base for their Year 11 and Sixth Form time with us from Year 7 to 11. Each village has its own designated wing. Students move between 14.00 - 14.55 Period 5 the Learning Villages for their lessons to ensure 14.55 - 15.10 Reflection Time they get the specialist teaching they need. 15.10 End of the School Day If students require additional support, our Access To include: department provides SEN support, language 15.10 onwards Extended opening development, behaviour support, counselling and Enrichment, Meetings, CPD, Detentions alternative curriculum provision. Term Dates The Academy operates a similar term structure to Bedford Borough Council schools. From time to time training days may vary.

TERM DATES 2020/2021 AUTUMN TERM 2020 SPRING TERM 2021 SUMMER TERM 2021 Staff Training Days Term Starts Term Starts Term Starts Thursday 3rd September Monday 7th September Tuesday 5th January Tuesday 13th April Friday 4th September Half Term Half Term Half Term Friday 11th December Monday 26th October - Friday 30th Monday 15th February - Friday 19th Monday 31st May - Friday 4th June Monday 4th January October February Term Ends Monday 12th April Term Ends Term Ends Thursday 22nd July Friday 18th December Friday 26th March 4 What Makes us Special?

Bedford Academy is a state funded independent school for students aged 11-18. We use our independence to be innovative and to constantly improve.

At Bedford Academy we do things differently; • We believe in spending extra time on Maths, • We provide a phone free environment that allows English and Science to ensure the highest students to focus on their education and social standards of literacy and numeracy. development. We do not tolerate the use of mobile phones anywhere in our school building. • Lessons are one hour in duration. We recognise that students build knowledge and understanding • Our ‘Access’ centre provides a student centred by building on prior learning. This means they approach to additional support. It acts as an need time to revisit/retrieve knowledge and Academy within the Academy for students that practise using it. We structure lessons carefully require more intensive support at any time. to make sure that there are a variety of activities, • Our in-house award-winning careers team learning is active and meets students’ needs. work hard to ensure students have the right • Students are encouraged to attend before and independent information, advice and guidance to after school enrichment activities, meaning that progress to their next life stage. the Academy is open from 7.30am until 4.10pm. • We offer a broad and balanced curriculum where • Excellent food facilities are available, with a range students are able to progress through their of tasty and nutritious dishes on offer, cooked on qualifications at a pace appropriate for them site by our own staff. rather than according to their age alone. • Our superb IT facilities provide enough computers for every student to use. • The Academy believes in promoting reading and the love of books and has an excellent Independent Learning Centre situated in the atrium right in the hub of the school. Students have several DEAR (Drop Everything And Read) sessions in prep time during the week where they have a focused slot developing reading.

5 The Bedford Academy Journey

The BA Way is the foundation of our curriculum. At Bedford Academy we strive to ensure every student becomes a young person who is:

COMMUNITY DRIVEN: ASPIRATIONAL: MINDED: a confident individual has high expectations of a responsible, thoughtful that achieves their full themselves and others, always and independent member of potential and works towards aiming to improve, succeed society that takes ownership success, without excuses or and excel of their own actions and compromise decisions

The BA curriculum is broad, balanced and inclusive. Traditional academic Key Stage 4 is two years where students study a range of optional subjects subjects are allocated a significant proportion of curriculum time to reflect alongside their core offer (Year 10 and 11). the profile of our school community. This enables us to raise aspirations and Key Stage 5 is two years with A-Level and Level 3 vocational qualifications develop students’ self-belief that everyone can achieve. studied (Year 12 and 13).

We offer a diverse range of academic and vocational courses to provide Bedford Academy prepares students to make a positive contribution to individual pathways that reflect the interests and strengths of our students. society in their next steps outside of school and in their future careers. The breadth of these pathways supports the building of aspirations and has clear and purposeful links to our post 16 offer.

All students are encouraged to complete the demanding EBACC qualifications in order to study their choice of A-Levels and aspire to achieve a University place. For students who wish to follow a different pathway we offer extensive guidance and a range of vocational qualifications at Key Stage 4 and 5. This offer is supported by our strong careers provision and our Sixth Form Sports Academy.

We believe in a seven-year curriculum model, spanning from Year 7 to 13.

Years 7, 8 and 9 build up an entitlement for all students ensuring they are well-prepared for modern life. This includes in Year 7 and 8, building skills, knowledge and confidence for Year 9 where the first assessed qualification is gained.

Year 9 is a transition year where all students study a one-year GCSE or Vocational option subject alongside their traditional curriculum. Here students experience success and are prepared for the demands of Key Stage 4. 6 Exciting Challenging Curriculum

KEY STAGE 3: YEARS 7 AND 8 KEY STAGE 5: YEARS 12 AND 13

A Level Subjects BTEC National (Level 3) Subjects Subjects Biology Art and Design English Art & Design History Chemistry Business Mathematics Performing Arts Computer Science Computer Science Creative Media Science Food Technology Music Economics Health and Social Care Personal & Careers Development (PCD) Spanish Religious Studies English Language & Literature ICT Physical Education Geography Geography Performing Arts History Science KEY STAGE 4: YEAR 9 Maths Sport Media Studies Core Subjects Options Physics Psychology English Child Development Religious Studies Mathematics Health and Social Care Sociology Science Creative Media Production Geography Digital IT Our Sixth Form provision is expanding, with new courses being added to our curriculum offer. We History Performing Arts are very excited to be able to offer such a wide range of subjects so that students are able to follow Spanish Photography the pathway most appropriate to them. In addition to Level 3 courses, students will also have the Computer Science Sports Science opportunity to retake GCSEs in English and Mathematics should they wish to improve their grades. PCD Physical Education We have also expanded our provision to include the Bedford Thunder Basketball Academy which enables students with a passion for basketball to excel through training and game play whilst working towards their chosen Level 3 qualifications. KEY STAGE 4: YEARS 10 AND 11 SUPPORT AND EXTENSION Core Subjects Pathway Subjects Students’ individual needs are well supported and benefit from a range of interventions, including additional curriculum time for literacy and numeracy lessons. English Art and Design Computer Science Mathematics Business Studies Media Studies Many students successfully complete qualifications in home languages other than English and Science - Combined or Triple Child Development Music are encouraged to do so when they are ready. We also encourage students to complete other PCD Citizenship Performing Arts qualifications early where appropriate, so that they can continue to challenge themselves with higher Physical Education Drama Religious Studies levels of study. Food Technology Sport Geography Sociology Health and Social Care History Spanish

The structure and offer within the curriculum is under constant review to ensure we offer the most appropriate curriculum for our students. 7 Teaching and Learning Raising Aspirations

Our ‘community minded, driven, aspirational’ values mean that UNLOCKING POTENTIAL learning is considered to be a partnership between students, Bedford Academy nurtures the talents of every student and we recognise that staff and parents. We aim to create an environment based on some students have outstanding academic gifts. As part of our personalised encouraging students to aspire for excellence as a result of the learning curriculum, these students take part in the more able programme. delivery of high quality teaching and learning across the school. The programme incorporates a wide range of activities and close monitoring of each student’s progress, achievement and participation. The teaching at Bedford Academy is designed to be engaging, exciting and challenging. We want all our students to be fully prepared for their futures by EXTRA-CURRICULAR LEARNING providing them with a range of academic opportunities and developing their character so that they leave us as well-rounded, employable young people. With leading University places and degree apprenticeships being ever more competitive and an increasing importance placed upon extra-curricular, Our curriculum model puts the core subjects of English, Maths and Science at super-curricular and even supra-curricular activities being prominent in the heart of what our students study. Getting the foundations right in these student applications, the role of the Achievement Leader for More Able areas opens up more effective learning across a wide range of subjects. Students is to source opportunities for students across Bedford Academy to add to their school experience. Primarily these opportunities are targeted at At Bedford Academy lessons last for 1 hour. Our staff work hard so that all our more able students, as the places they often end up competing for are students are challenged and supported to make sustained and substantial the most competitive of all. However, we ensure that a wide variety of them progress in all aspects of their studies. This is achieved through: are offered to all students to give everyone a wide range of experiences, learning opportunities in younger years and leadership projects in later years. CONSISTENT HIGH EXPECTATIONS SIXTH FORM The high expectations underpinned by The BA Golden Five mean that lessons are conducted in a positive working environment that is conducive For Sixth Form students, we aim to increase student responsibility to high quality teaching and learning. Teachers use the information available with a diverse range of opportunities. This has seen the launch of three to them to plan lessons that meet the individual needs of the students we new programmes which comprise the Bedford Academy Pre-Teaching teach. Programme.

STRETCH AND CHALLENGE All lessons contain a variety of learning activities and tasks to ensure that students are engaged and challenged. Teachers employ a range of strategies that offer the opportunity to transfer, reinforce and extend the knowledge and skills of the students they teach. This includes high quality questioning and a focus on independent learning.

HIGH QUALITY FEEDBACK As we look to foster a love of learning in our students and develop independent and resilient learners, our students will receive high quality feedback, both written and verbal, that provides students with clear next steps on what they need to do to improve and develop the quality of their work.

8 The BA Student Journey Ladder

9 Access Homework

All staff at Bedford Academy are ambitious for all students, Bedford Academy is fully committed to the setting, completion, including those with physical, emotional or learning needs and tracking and assessment of homework as part of each student’s the large, vibrant Access department works tirelessly to meet educational provision. the needs of a wide range of students. Our ethos clearly values every student for who they are and what they can bring to Additional learning, study, research and revision outside of the classroom is the school community. Our vision is to create a positive and an integral part of students’ learning. As well as improving performance in supportive environment for all students without exception. All individual subjects, it develops positive routines which students can utilise students, regardless of their starting point, need to feel valued effectively in their journey through Key Stage 4, Sixth Form and further education as well as in the world of work. and included if they are to achieve well and thrive. This will

mean that at times our decisions will be driven by a deep sense Students who take part in additional study support activities outside of their of equity as well as equality. normal learning get better GCSE results than their peers of equal ability who do not participate. These students score an average of 3.5 grades more on As an inclusive school we aim to remove barriers to learning and their best GCSE results and they gain one more 9-5 pass (Source: National participation, provide an education that is appropriate to pupils’ needs, Youth Agency & University of Strathclyde). promote high standards and the fulfilment of potential for all students. Homework will be set regularly across all subject areas and allows students At Bedford Academy we will: to develop skills, consolidate learning and prepare for future learning • Build an ongoing, holistic understanding of our students and their needs opportunities. • Ensure all students have access to high quality teaching Bedford Academy use Epraise to set and track homework across the school. • Complement high quality teaching with selected small group and one-to- Epraise is an online portal which allows parents, carers and students to review one interventions the homework that has been set and keep track of submission dates. • Work effectively with Parents / carers

We do not believe in separation or isolation. All students need to learn to work cooperatively and collaboratively. All students will be helped to develop independence both in terms of learning habits as well as social skills. Enrichment This includes longer term career development where the Access Careers Champion, part of the Careers team, ensures that the careers programme is accessible and meets the needs of all students. We believe that it is important for students to make the most of their time at the Academy and we are proud of the varied activities and opportunities available to students during the academic year.

All teaching staff contribute to our enrichment programme, resulting in a variety of clubs and extra-curricular activities. We expect students to attend at least one enrichment, although many choose to attend more!

Our Enrichment programme covers Sport, Arts, Science and Technology, Careers, Music and Languages to name just a few.

10 Events and Visits Personal and

Enriching the lives of our students comes Careers in many forms, not just extra-curricular clubs. On site events, residential, day Development trips and short visits encourage students to experience different environments, (PCD) cultures and to meet new people, giving opportunities to increase their curiosity, Personal and Careers Development (PCD) are organisational skills, personal initiative and lessons for life. Every student in the school will self-confidence. follow an individualised programme designed We offer a wide variety of events and visits to for their year group, taught by their form tutor enhance learning, uncover new interests and help at the same time every week. prepare students for the next stage of their education or employment. Students will be exposed to issues surrounding wellbeing, personal health, social interactions, safety, This includes themed weeks such as National Careers finance and independent living. week, team building, sports day, productions and concerts. Visiting employers, lecturers and speakers The careers element will involve topics such as self provide course and pastoral and careers related talks. development, investigating jobs, the labour market, These raise awareness for students beyond that of employability skills, enterprise, post 16 and post 18 Academy staff and provide insights into different choices and career management. approaches to learning. Lessons will be delivered by form tutors with input from Tutorial time provides activities focused on guest speakers, volunteers from industry and specialist students’ skills including: productions. • Literacy • Careers information, advice and guidance • Bullying and pastoral matters

Citizenship based activities encourage student participation in events such as Children in Need and Comic Relief, where fundraising develops students’ planning, decision making and organisational skills.

11 Careers Learning Sixth Form

Bedford Academy won the ‘School of the Year’, Careers Excellence Award in We believe that Sixth Form is the pinnacle September 2019 and was the second school in England to meet the revised of our students’ education and forms the Quality in Careers Standard, December 2018. Our aim is to build employability bridge to adulthood. Bedford Academy Sixth skills, develop knowledge of careers and the labour market, explore career ideas Form provides a range of opportunities and and offer impartial guidance to students about their next steps and career ideas. continued support to enable students to Ultimately we want our students to move on to sustained destinations not only progress successfully in their future careers. with the skills to survive but to succeed and thrive. We recognise leadership skills as a vital tool in Students have access to a comprehensive range of careers education activities and guidance through succeeding in a modern global community and a combination of tutorial activities, PCD lessons, career learning embedded in to the curriculum, provide students with opportunities to develop these assemblies, careers events, external visits and individual guidance interviews to support their through the senior prefect team. Sixth Formers have decision making whilst at school and to prepare them well for the future. Recent examples of opportunities to take on community projects, charity activities and resources provided for students include: work and mentoring roles for younger students. • Year 8 university visit • Year 9 employer visits Students in the Sixth Form study three Level 3 courses and these may be a mix of A Levels and BTEC • Personal Guidance appointment in KS3 4 and 5 qualifications. Students also have a tutor and follow a • Year 12 careers conference core Personal and Careers Development programme. • National Careers Week activities Students gain extensive careers and industry insights • Alumni day as part of our personalised approach to support and guidance. Sixth Form students have access to a • Year 12 work experience number of enrichment and leadership opportunities • Careers education programme in PCD throughout the year. • Health Care Roadshow • Careers Hub and range of online resources A Sixth Form prospectus is available on the Bedford Academy website or from the school Reception. • Career insight talks • Mock interviews • National Careers Service live webinars • Year 11 Next Steps event • Challenging stereotypes transition day event • Universities visits • National School Leavers Show • College and Sixth Form taster day • National Apprenticeship Show • Meet the Professional events

For further info on our careers programme, or if your organisation would be interested in contributing to our careers programme, contact Miss Green, Director of Aspiration on 301500 ext 182, email [email protected] 12 Academy Standards and Expectations

LATENESS For serious breaches of the rules, including persistent breaches of The student’s academic tutor is the first point of contact for parents. the rules, students may be excluded from school on a fixed term For all year groups, parents and carers will also have an opportunity The Academy expects all students to arrive punctually and be ready or permanent basis. Bedford Academy uses a simple tiered warning to meet directly with their child’s subject teachers once a year to to commence learning at 8.25am each day. Students must arrive system that encourages positive behaviour and prevents students discuss their progress for each subject in detail. to lessons within 5 minutes. Lateness to lessons disrupts the flow from making poor choices. of a lesson, the learning of the student and that of other students; ATTENDANCE punctuality is a life skill and one that is always requested in future ASSESSMENT employer references. To encourage good attendance, students risk At Bedford Academy we believe that for our students to gain the detentions either daily or weekly for single or multiple occurrence The key function of assessment at Bedford Academy is to contribute greatest benefits from their education, it is vital that they attend of lateness. to the educational process which helps our students become better regularly. Our students should be on time, every day the Academy learners. Assessment is the vital tool in the determination of levels opens unless the reason for absence is absolutely unavoidable. It is MOBILE PHONES AND ELECTRONIC DEVICES and tracking progress of students, as well as promoting learning. very important that families recognise their responsibility to ensure We assess our students regularly within the classroom through the their child attends school regularly and on time. 98% attendance is Mobile phones are part of many students’ lives and at Bedford use of ‘Journey Questions’ and end of topic tests, as well as through a realistic and achievable target for all students that allows for the Academy we recognise that many parents/carers feel their child is formal exams and pre public exams. occasional emergency or sickness absence. safer with the phone on them on the way to and from school. We assess students’ learning in order to: At Bedford Academy, we have implemented a new initiative and have • Provide students with constructive feedback banned the use of all mobile phones during school time. To achieve • Motivate students this, every student is provided with a lockable case in which to put • Identify learning strengths and areas for development the phone at the start of the day. The case with the phone inside • Identify progress and intervene to ensure the learning process is kept in the student’s possession until the end of the day and is moves forward then unlocked during reflection time. This completely eradicates the • Assist in the evaluation of teaching methods and learning impact and distraction of social media, allowing the students to fully materials concentrate during lessons. • Provide information for other stakeholders (colleagues and parents) Bedford Academy will not accept any responsibility for phones or • Enable students to form a judgement about the quality of their headphones brought into school. This is done at the owner’s risk. work • Assist in moderating standards across classes SANCTIONS • Promote learning Students collect praise points for going above and beyond in their lessons and around the Academy. Achievement is celebrated in a Assessment is carried out for two main reasons: to find out number of ways throughout the school year. Students who do not how much a student has achieved and to promote learning and follow the rules will receive demerits, next day detentions and may understanding. The recording of such information allows us to be placed in isolation away from peers. monitor the progress of students and inform our planning of future teaching. Students can avoid any sanctions by arriving to school and lessons on time, by wearing the correct uniform and by following the school REPORTS routines and expectations. Parents and carers can support students At every assessment point, parents and carers receive a progress by ensuring their child has everything they need and by supporting report generated from the central database summarising their child’s the school and their teachers. attainment, target data and attendance. These reports are sent home with students and are also emailed out to all parents and carers who have supplied an email address to the school. 13 Anti-Bullying Parent Partnership

Bedford Academy encourages students to show respect in their PARENTS MAKE A DIFFERENCE relationships with all members of the Academy’s community. Parents, carers and families are by far the most important influences on The Academy takes a zero-tolerance approach to bullying – this includes all children’s lives. We believe that where parents take on a supportive role in forms of bullying relating to race, religion and culture, homophobic bullying, their child’s learning both at home and in partnership with the school their bullying related to special educational needs and disabilities, sexist and sexual children do better and achieve more. These benefits can be long-lasting and bullying, and the use of cyber technology to bully. extend to better health, relationships and improved employment.

We encourage students to: Bedford Academy is an open and honest school who puts the community at • Say NO to BULLYING it’s heart. We are developing an active partnership with our parents including • Know and understand what bullying means and the consequences of open days where any members of our community are welcome to look bullying-type behaviour around the school. We hold Parent Voice meetings where a senior leader • Be active not passive – speak out and report incidents discusses current issues within the school but we listen to parent/carer input • Listen to, support and help bullied students to help drive our school forward. • Take personal responsibility • Take collective responsibility PARENT VOICE • Develop loyalty to the Academy and students within it. To emphasise and formalise the effectiveness of this partnership we have created the BA Partnership Agreement. This outlines what all staff, We are affiliated members of the Anti-bullying alliance. We have a member students and parents / carers will do to ensure our students have every of staff who leads a team of trained students who are our anti-bullying chance of success at Bedford Academy. This document will be signed by home, ambassadors. This further promotes the opportunities for students to school and students and will be issued to all new students when they start at approach someone regarding any conflict issues and be active in maintaining Bedford Academy. a respectful and safe environment at Bedford Academy.

Our simple sanction model with bullying: FAMILY SUPPORT MANAGER STEP ONE Our Family Support Manager is available throughout the school day to support families with concerns they may have around issues that occur The conflict is logged and communication to outside of school but may well affect your child at the Academy. They can all parties is carried out, ensuring any relevant provide support and information in regards to matters such as housing warning is delivered to instruct students to benefits, employment and parenting. remain respectful.

STEP TWO PARENT GOVERNOR Should a student continue to show disrespect Our Parent Governor sits on the Local Advisory Board for the Trust and in any form of bullying they are isolated and is a representative parent who holds a unique position of having a parental their details are added to our central log which viewpoint of the Academy. They are available to discuss issues raised by we share with Bedford Borough. parents and are actively involved in the life of the Academy.

STEP THREE

Any student who continues with inappropriate behaviours will risk exclusion from Bedford Academy. 14 Rewards Student Voice

At Bedford Academy our standards are high. We Student Voice is the set of systems through believe that no goal is beyond possibility for our which young people contribute their opinions students and we encourage their aspirations and and suggestions on Academy life in an open, achievements by use of rewards. honest, secure and constructive way.

EPRAISE At Bedford Academy we believe that all students are entitled to contribute actively in shaping the educational Epraise is an online rewards system used by students, staff experience they and their fellow students receive. and parents at Bedford Academy. Students are rewarded Bedford Academy is committed to placing Student Voice with praise points and these can be used towards rewards at the centre of lesson planning and design of the wider in the online shop. There are also a number of achievement curriculum. badges that students are encouraged to work towards throughout each academic year. Students in all years at Bedford Academy have many opportunities to contribute their views and opinions. Epraise can be accessed on computers or through the The Student Voice team meet regularly to look at a wide app, therefore allowing students and parents to track and variety of issues that come under the broad headings monitor successes easily. of Environment, Charities and Student Wellbeing. They also look at issues specifically affecting the different year END OF TERM CELEBRATION OF REWARDS groups. The end of each term is a highlight for all. Our students are recognised for their achievements in front of their The Student Voice team also play an increasingly peers during celebration assemblies. Heads of Year, important role in the interview process of recruiting Teachers and Form Tutors nominate students for both new staff and play an active part in whole school academic and pastoral based rewards. Our students decision making, including presenting their ideas to thoroughly enjoy these events and are inspired to do their the staff and governors of the school. best the following term to secure a reward for themselves.

END OF YEAR CELEBRATION OF REWARDS During the summer term reward trips take place and special awards are made. Students who have achieved the highest standards of attendance, achievement, effort and participation are rewarded and invited to take part in these exciting events.

15 Student Uniform Uniform Standards

All students are expected to be in FULL Academy GIRLS BOYS uniform whilst inside the Academy building. This includes correctly worn ties, tucked in shirts, blazers, skirts at Order from the online shop. knee length and school shoes. Students must also have A current pricelist is available at www.totalclothingshop.co.uk/bacad a plain, dark bag / backpack with them each day which UNIFORM: UNIFORM: is strong enough to carry books; additional bags may be Navy Blazer with Academy Badge Navy Blazer with Academy Badge used to carry PE kit or cooking ingredients if required. Inappropriate items of clothing, jewellery and hair Academy Skirt (knee length) OR Charcoal Grey Trousers accessories will be confiscated. Charcoal Grey Trousers (religious/ Academy Tie medical reasons only) In addition: Academy Tie is optional • Hair styles must be in keeping with the smart appearance of our uniform and be of a conventional length and colour (unnatural PE KIT: PE KIT: hair colours and markings cut into the hair are not appropriate). Academy Track Suit Jogging Bottoms Academy Track Suit Jogging Bottoms • Excessive make-up and coloured nail varnish, fake nails and Academy Polo Shirt Academy Polo Shirt eyelashes are not permitted. Academy Shorts Academy Shorts • Students may wear a wrist watch and one pair of plain silver or gold colour studs in their earlobe only (except for during PE); no Academy Skort (optional) Academy Socks jewellery is to be worn in any body piercings; additional jewellery Academy Socks Academy Football/Rugby Top (op- or hair ornaments will be confiscated. tional) Academy Football/Rugby Top • Visible tattoos, including henna tattoos, are not permitted. (optional) Academy Base layer (optional) • Students are expected to wear plain black school shoes. Trainers, Academy Base layer (optional) Academy Fleece (optional) boots or sandals are not permitted. Shoes must not be open-toe, Academy Fleece (optional) resemble trainers or have any logos. • Hooded tops, caps and bandanas are not appropriate clothing and must not be brought to the Academy site. Available at other stores • Religious headscarves must be plain black or navy. • All clothing must be clearly marked with the student’s name. Plain Black Socks or Tights Black Socks Plain Black School Shoes Plain Black School Shoes The only exceptions to the uniform policy are as follows: Proper Winter Coat – Black or Grey Proper Winter Coat – Black or Grey • If the Head Teacher declares that summer uniform may be worn, (no denim, leather or large logos) (no denim, leather or large logos) students may remove blazers. Trainers for PE (Hockey Boots Trainers for PE (Football Boots • Students unable to wear uniform for medical reasons must optional) optional) provide a note of explanation to their Head of Year; a uniform Open Neck White Blouse White Long Sleeve Shirt pass for the appropriate period of time will usually be issued in these circumstances.

When a student does not arrive to school in Bedford Academy uniform, they will be expected to wear loan uniform and return this 16 at the end of the school day. If the uniform is not returned, parents will be invoiced. Financial Difficulty Procedures

The Academy provides a free education to all students but also provides a number of additional services and activities for which charges will be made. The Academy is committed to the belief that no student should be at a disadvantage if their parents/carers are in receipt of benefits.

The Academy is able to offer financial assistance to those • The Academy restaurant will provide a main meal option students for whom the Academy receive pupil premium with dessert and drink (water) that does not exceed or whose parents or carers are in receipt of one of the the daily free meal allowance. However, students will be following benefits: able to make alternative choices and to use the free meal • Income Support allowance in part payment for their chosen meal. • Income-based Jobseekers Allowance Extras, such as drinks or extra dessert, above the allowance value will need to be paid for by parents/ • Income-related Employment and Support Allowance carers. • Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act • The Academy reserves the right to reclaim any Academy 1999 benefits that are overpaid as a result of any financial • Child Tax Credit (provided you’re not also entitled to misinformation received. Working Tax Credit and have an annual gross income of no more than £16,190 (subject to review*) UNIFORM AND SPORTS KIT • Working Tax Credit run-on – paid for 4 weeks after you stop qualifying for Working Tax Credit Assistance with the provision of uniform will be provided for those parents/carers whose children are in receipt of free • Universal credit - if you apply on or after 1 April 2018 school meals. your household income must be less than £7,400 a year (after tax and not including any benefits you get) TRIPS AND VISITS • The guaranteed element of pension credit Deposits should, in all cases, be paid for in full by the parent/ *This threshold is provided by the DFE and is subject to carer. To apply for assistance with the remaining amount, a change. letter should be sent to the Finance Department stating the reasons for the application. Reference should be made to the Academy’s Charging and Remissions policy for further MEAL ALLOWANCE guidance. • A free meal allowance per day will be allocated to eligible students against the cost of a main meal. OTHER ENQUIRIES Free School Meals (FSM) can be claimed by those All financial assistance queries should be made in writing students whose parents or carers are in receipt of one of to the Finance Department. They will be considered on the the benefits outlined above. grounds of the pupil premium/benefit criteria outlined above. If you feel you may be eligible for Free School Meals you can contact Bedford Borough Council Education Welfare Service and request an application form to be sent to you or apply online via www. bedford.gov.uk.

17 Academy Catering

Bedford Academy understands the importance of providing students with healthy and nutritious food which enhances levels of concentration and achievement.

Our team of chefs constantly refreshes the We are also very excited to be able to introduce a designated external dining area for al fresco menus and provides food of the highest quality Halal as a meat option on the main menu. dining during late spring and summer. in our restaurant on a daily basis. The Academy offers free breakfast during break time, of cereal We also cater for allergens and intolerances – The Academy operates a biometric cashless and fruit, to every student. We provide nutritious we are nut free and are proud to offer gluten system for catering. Your child will have an and substantial snacks to buy at break as well as free alternatives to pasta, pizza and sandwiches. account which can be accessed and topped up providing appetising and satisfying lunches. Students who wish to bring a packed lunch from online via ParentPay. If you require further home may do so, eating either in the restaurant information on cashless catering please contact Our menus comply with the standards set by the or on one of the outside benches. the Finance Department at the Academy. Food Standards Agency to assist our students to Our bistro style restaurant provides a modern make healthy choices in their diet. A free meal allowance per day is allocated to and relaxed environment in the main atrium at eligible* students. the heart of the school where students can enjoy The food reflects a variety of tastes and breakfast, break and lunch and socialise with their cultures. The menu has been designed so that all friends. Lunch times are staggered to ensure that vegetarian dishes on the main menu are all vegan. queues are minimised. Doors open out onto

Sample Menu

* If you feel you may be eligible for Free School Meals, please contact Bedford Borough Council Education Welfare Service and request an application form to be sent to you or 18 apply online via www.bedford.gov.uk. Student Admissions

Bedford Academy will consider all applications for places. Admissions into the Academy are organised in conjunction with Bedford Borough Council.

Each year the Council distributes information packs via local Primary and Middle Schools on the admissions process for Secondary Schools. Places need to be applied for and a completed application form needs to be returned to the Council by 31st October. Places will then be allocated and parents will be informed the following spring. We anticipate reaching our full admission number each year therefore you are advised to put Bedford Academy as your first choice if you wish to secure a place for your child.

ENTRY IN TO OTHER YEARS Contact Bedford Borough Council Admissions Service for an application form. All applications will be considered and if the year group applied for has a place available the Academy may admit the child.

Bedford Borough Council School Admissions Service T: 01234 718120 E: [email protected]

Policies

If you wish to view any Academy policies please follow the link to the policies section on the Bedford Academy website: http://bedfordacademy.co.uk/policies

19 Contacts

We welcome enquiries about the Academy, please do not hesitate to contact us:

CEO of HEART Mr David Morris Academies Trust

Head Teacher Mr Chris Deller

KEY STAGE 3 Key Stage 3 Co-ordinator Mr Ian Little Head of Year 7 Mr Alex Parrott Head of Year 8 Mrs Abby Jordan

KEY STAGE 4 Key Stage 4 Co-ordinator Mrs Lauren Turner Head of Year 9 Mrs Charlene Camfield Head of Year 10 Mr Andrew Burns Head of Year 11 Ms Carly Tarrant

KEY STAGE 5 Key Stage 5 Co-Ordinator Mrs Rachel Lovett Head of Years 12 and 13 Mr Jack Green

Bedford Academy Mile Road Bedford MK42 9TR

T: 01234 301500 Bedford E: [email protected] Academy www.bedfordacademy.co.uk

Created by www.concept4.com (ref J14360-06/2020)