AllAll Saints Advocate Advocate Vol 2 No 6 July 2011

ALL SAINTS From the Principal ACADEMY

Ms Young (PE) - good luck in the next stage of your career, Mr Wow! What a year we’ve had… Talbot (Maths) – best wishes for your training to be a If you have passed the Houghton Road Missionary, and Mr Lee (Business Studies) – best wishes for entrance lately you will have seen the your travel overseas. In September we will be joined by the visible signs of the construction of our following teaching staff: Miss Di Giampasquale new building. Having been involved with (Communications), Miss Russell and Mr Thompson (Science), the plans from the outset, and having Miss Thomas (Maths) and Mr Walbank (ICT). Mr Christou- visited several academies built by Willmott Dixon, I Harris will join us as an Apprentice ICT Technician. A warm know we shall have a building to be proud of, with superb ICT welcome to all our new colleagues. facilities, fantastic Sports facilities, and outstanding facilities Looking forward, we are anticipating another significant for the Arts. That’s just the start - the finish of the buildings I improvement in results and we are trying very hard to make have seen brings school building design to a new level. sure every single one of our students outperforms expectation. Construction work is on schedule ready for handover to us in We are, of course, still playing catch-up for issues prior to the June 2012; from September 2012, therefore, all classes will be Academy’s opening and we will continue to strive to achieve delivered in the new futuristic learning environment. the highest standards for all our students. What is most The Academy year 2010/11 has been even more exciting than significant is the continued transformation in our students’ the previous year. In terms of achievement, many of our attitude to work and to their education students have been entered early for their courses. In the The message is clear – we are going to try our hardest for our current Year 10, therefore, 86% of the whole cohort has a students, do our best for them, go the extra mile and to GCSE grade C or above equivalent in ICT and 90% as a GCSE encourage them to be ambitious for themselves, their grade C or above equivalent in Business Skills for Work. In the Academy and their community. In expecting this of our current Year 9, 92% have achieved at least a C grade in ICT. In students we have noticed an upbeat ethos, an ethos which is addition to this, all Year 9 students studying Childcare have friendly, positive and extremely aspirational. Visitors to the been accredited with at least a Pass at GCSE level subject to Academy continue to be astonished, not just at the ratification. transformation from previously but they frequently mention During the year we have seen the quality of Teaching & how welcoming the Academy is from the moment they set Learning go from strength to strength. Our HMI visit in foot on site, from the Reception area and the Reception staff, September 2010 was most positive and we have used this and to every other adult and young person in the building. We good inspection as a springboard for further improvements. do believe we are writing history and, therefore, we are We are trying very hard to link with local schools to ensure spending a lot of time ensuring that the conditions for learning that students entering in Year 9 hit the ground running. As I are correct and that we as adults in the Academy are setting a write, Mr Kemp, my Vice Principal, is already planning a change continuously positive upbeat and aspirational tone. We shall of timetable to be introduced in January 2012 so that Year 9 be judged over time but if I could see into the future I would students can start their GCSE courses early. say that All Saints is the place to be.

In this year we have seen some staff leave but every single Finally, I should like to say a big thank you to every single appointment since September 2010, both teaching and person, student, staff, parent, carer, governor, sponsor, associate staff, including those who will start with us in stakeholder, community user, colleague Headteachers, and September 2011, has been an improvement on those colleague associate staff for your part in developing All Saints outgoing. A big thank you to all staff who are leaving us in July; into our exciting and vibrant learning community. You will be you have all played a huge part in the transformation of pleased that you are part of history in the making! education within our community and I wish you all the very best in the next phases of your lives. 1 Tom Waterworth

www.allsaintsacademydunstable.org INTAKE DAY

We as the Student Leadership Group put together a session for the Year 8 Taster Day including a starter activity, a video and a plenary. The focus of our session was to give the upcoming Year 8 a basic guideline of Academy life at the Academy, and what they can expect when they come here, also as an introduction to the staff at the Academy, such as; ICT, Music and Religious Studies teacher interviews. The outcomes we expected from our sessions was for Year 8s to gain knowledge of the Academy, such as; different areas of the Academy and different teachers from different subjects. From planning these sessions we have gained confidence and know how to work independently and collaboratively to develop an interactive and informative session. Also knowledge of how to set up an intake day session has been similar to how teachers plan lessons, and having the experience of organising group events, which has been fun, but hard work. We hope this will encourage Year 8s to join the Student Leadership Group when they join in September, and hopefully they can give us new aspects, views and opinions to improve school life for everyone at All Saints Academy. The day was a great success. By Aeilish Wynne and Nathan Marshall

By the time you are reading this article, the new intake of Year 8s into Year 9 will have had their two “taster” days atthe Academy. This is the second year where two complete days were devoted to the new intake so that these students were able to become acclimatised to the new rules and regimes, expectations and aspirations that the Academy has for the new students. As in previous years, a completely separate timetable was mapped onto the existing timetable for the two days which gave the new students an opportunity to taste the wares of the café (we provided them with a free lunch on both days), to find the Main Academy Hall, the Sports Hall, the various classrooms as well as experience some lessons given to them by our teachers. This year, the timetable was again full with taster activities in Media, Health & Social Care, BTEC and GCSE Sport and Business Studies. More traditional lessons of science, textiles, music, PE, drama and dance were also attended by the Year 8s. Their new form tutors spent two very useful days accompanying the students as they went to their lessons; useful because the form tutors now say they have had an opportunity to get to know their tutees before September and so, useful bridges have been built. The new intake also saw superb presentations given to them by the Student Leadership Group who introduced the Year 8s to other, more student led, activities and aspects of the Academy. The two days also gave an opportunity for important tests tobe conducted so that accurate and up to date data could be gained in order to place students in the correct band and set before September; obviously we have already gathered information and data on students from the Middle Schools but this additional information that the CATs (Cognitive Ability Tests) yield enable us to begin to set further targets for the students basedon possible predictions that CATs give with regard to GCSE. So, after a final assembly, during which the Year 8s were congratulated for their excellent behaviour, polite manners and smart dress, the year group was dismissed and we look forward to another year in which the standards for the Academy will b raised by a cohort of young people who want to come here and will live up to the mission statement because they want to “Aspire, Strive and Achieve” at All Saints! Oh, and a big “thank you” needs to go to all colleagues who assisted with the smooth running of the arrangements, to the café staff for accommodating us all, to the Student Leadership Group who not only put together the presentation but also provided invaluable help in the classrooms, and lastly to all of the parents who attended the parents’ meeting on the evening of the second Intake Day.

Allan Grubb Achievement Leader KS 3

www.allsaintsacademydunstable.org KARL WHITE, YEAR 13

I have just completed 3 years in the Sixth Form at All Saints Academy (one of which was at NTC) and am really pleased with my progress during the course of this time. In my first year in the Sixth Form I was shocked to see that I had underachieved in a big way and decided to restart my Year 12 in September 2009, the first year of the Academy. I studied Maths, Chemistry and Forensic Science, and I am currently waiting for my results which will take me to Hertfordshire University to do a degree in pharmacology. I know that my place at University depends on my results, however, I feel that I deserve a place because my work ethic, maturity, motivation and drive have all changed for the better. I really appreciate the work that my teachers have put in; they have worked tirelessly with me to ensure I had all the support needed to pursue my goals. At Northfields I did not have the best results but at All Saints Academy staff have excelled themselves in making my education a priority. Staff here help those who in the past did not excel to now realise their full potential. Everyone is encouraged to aim for higher education and to have high aspirations. A big and sincere thank you to all who have supported and guided me in the Sixth Form. Karl White Year 13 Student

SIXTH FORM BBQ

www.allsaintsacademydunstable.org YEAR 9 GCSE MUSIC GROUP

On the 18th May 2011, the Year 9 GCSE Music group plus some Year 13 Performing Arts students, (accompanied by Mrs McEachran and Mr Prattley) visited the ‘British Music Experience’ in the O2 Arena. We left school at 8.40am, and travelled by coachinto London.

Once we had arrived at the O2 we spent about an hour looking round the interactive museum and learning about the history of British Pop music from the 1960s until the present day. There were music tracks to listen to, as well as outfits and instruments to see which belonged to people right through from The Beatles to Adele. There was also a ‘Dance the Decades’ booth, where you could learn different dances from all eras and be videoed performing them. It was really funny watching our videos back!

After a short break for lunch, we participated in a workshop with various other schools. During the workshop we learnt about all the people and work involved in producing a pop star. We then had to create and market our own pop star and present our work to the rest of the group. Sharon and Mitchell did a humorous presentation on behalf of our group - our pop star was a rapper called 3Dee who had his own fashion label! To finish off, we went back into the museum and visited a section called the ‘Gibson Interactive Studio’. We were able to play on guitars, drum-kits, and pianos, as well as use a mixing desk and record in the vocal booth.

All in all everyone had a really good day, and we all (including the teachers!) came away having learnt something new about the history of British pop music.

Keely Sharp Year 9 Music Student

www.allsaintsacademydunstable.org DANCE SHOWCASE

The All Saints Elite Crew performed at the East Kent dance Showcase, and represented the Academy amazingly. They were mature and professional backstage, and captivating on stage. ASA also performed at the Red Cross Dance4Life competition on Sat 25 June, and at the Carnival on 9th July. Kerry Metcalf Teacher of Dance

www.allsaintsacademydunstable.org READING CHALLENGE

We are starting an exciting new reading project over the long summer holidays; open to all students (and staff) of All Saints. All you have to do is read six books over the holiday, of your own choice, review the books to a member of staff in September and grab yourself a £5 book voucher to treat yourself to another new book for the Autumn term! See me for more details.

Amanda-Jane Bird Teacher of English / Literacy Co-ordinator

VIVO MILES Vivo Miles is the Academy’s reward system, awarding students under various categories, which will then enable them to collect virtual money; working in the same way as Tesco Club Card!

Each student is given individual login details and can access their account from home. If you would like to know more about Vivo Miles please visit www.vivomiles.co.uk .

If you would like to look at your child’s Vivo Miles account, please speak to your child and they can give you a separate ‘parent login’.

The Top 5 students in each year group with the most amount of Vivos are…………..

YEAR 9 YEAR 10 YEAR 11 YEAR 12 YEAR13 Aelish Wynn 1351 Alison Canavan 2127 Robin Stone 2038 Lauren Harker 1374 Karen Flecknell 1739 Rebecca Markham 1231 Paige Wyllie 1768 Emma Hunter 1846 Hayley Flecknell 1307 Karl White 1350 Matthew Sibley 1155 Sophie McGrath 1636 Nick Carter 1714 Megan McMahon 1062 Pooja Tank 1214 Nathan Marshall 1133 Rachael Elmes 1513 Kira Solley 1679 Ebony Ankra 1025 Misty Nicholson 1198 Courtney Ayre 1127 Colin Sweetman 1509 Lauren White 1625 Kira Gorman 797 Craig Sharp 1177

At the time this information was obtained, the student with the most Vivos is Alison Canavan Year 10 with 2127. Well done Alison!!

Louise Lissaman Assistant Vice Principal - Student Achievement

www.allsaintsacademydunstable.org MATHS DAY

The Olympics The University of trainee teachers came into All Saints to deliver inset maths sessions based on the Olympics.

“On the Maths Day at school, we had three sessions; ‘events’, ‘construction’ and ‘planning travel’. The first session I took part in was ‘events’. There were three different events you could take part in, which were javelin, egg and spoon race and hammer throw. The second session was ‘construction’. We got a brief about what building we would be constructing. We then chose a manager who kept us on task. Once we built it we had to work out the build price, number of seats etc. The third and last session was ‘planning travel’. Three Olympic teams had to get to their destination, and we had to plan their travel. Either mini bus, train or plane could be used, as long as we were under budget and our teams were there seven hours before the event. On the whole it was an enjoyable day.” Report by Kerrie Loughnane

“On the 21st June a group of students visited the ‘University of Bedfordshire’. We spent the day creating a presentation of either reporting what we learnt when the university students visited our school or creating a new event. This was very enjoyable, as was the activities day.” Report by Yemi Omotayo, Abigail Hyde and Nathan Marshall

“I enjoyed meeting new people and understanding that maths is used a lot in the real world. It was a very helpful day and it taught us lots”. Report by Ellis and Ocean

“All of us had a really good and eventful day. We did a great presentation about the Maths Day we did recently.” Report by Danielle Vickers

“On the 21st June some students from ‘All Saints Academy’ went to visit the ‘University of Bedfordshire’. We did a presentation on the two days. We took part in their activities at our school and the university students got feedback on how they could improve. It was a great day and I wish we could do it all again. I would like to thank all for taking us. It was amazing.” Report by Laurna and Shana

“The Maths Day was really fun and showed us that maths is actually used in real life.” Report by Pippa Jones and Lusi Whitlock

“We thought that the day was interesting and we had lots of fun.” Report by Marie and Billy

www.allsaintsacademydunstable.org CHILTERN SCHOOLS SPORTS PARTNERSHIP SPORTS AWARDS EVENING 2011

Hosted at the Conference Centre with five hundred people attending to celebrate students’ achievements in school sport was the Chiltern School Sports Partnership Sports Awards Evening on Wednesday 29 June. Nominees for awards were invited from all schools across the Dunstable and Houghton Regis area. Nominated for awards from All Saints Academy were:  Olivia Ayre – Year 9/10 and 11 Sports Ambassador of the Year  Rhiane Lindsay – Year 12 and 13 Sports Ambassador of the Year  Jay Smith – Year 9/10 and 11 Sports Personality of the Year  Tricia Gould – Year 12 and 13 Sports Personality of the Year  Alex Elder – Year 9/10 and 11 Leader of the Year  Patrick Gallagher – Year 12 and 13 Leader of the Year  Under 16 golf team - Team of the Year  Jordan Rees – Captain of the Year  Alasdair Coles – Unsung Hero of the Year Olivia Ayre, Tricia Gould and Jordan Rees all went on to win their category for their respective awards. Congratulations. In attendance were many proud parents alongside sports coaches, primary teachers, PE departments, head teachers, governors, local councillors and the Mayor of Dunstable. On stage the Academy’s Gymnastics Team, consisting of Laura Harris, Kristen Cronin, Stephanie Regan, Hollie Jenkinson, Amber Plenty and Georgina Gleghorn, performed a fantastic display that was much appreciated by the audience. All Saints Academy also won the Upper School of the Year award for its new initiatives and improvements in school sports provision and the impact it has had on engaging new students in to school sport this year. Congratulations to the PE department; their hard work in delivering these fantastic sporting opportunities at All Saints makes this award well deserved! Katie Milton Partnership Development Manager Chiltern School Sport Partnership

www.allsaintsacademydunstable.org UNLOCKING POTENTIAL

13 students and 2 staff attended a unique sporting opportunity as guests of the Dame Kelly Holmes Legacy Trust (DKHLT) and the University of Bedfordshire. The All Saints students, all selected for their sporting ability, leadership potential and ambition, were treated to a superb day of various workshops, performance enhancing sessions and lectures on how to make the most of their potential in the world of sport. The sessions were led by double gold medal Olympian Dame Kelly herself along with her team of ex-Olympians, world champions from a variety of sports and experts in the field of sports science & technology. Dame Kelly started the day with a motivational and inspirational talk about the journey to the top of the sporting pyramid. She talked about the pitfalls and barriers that potential sports performers may encounter. We were treated to a reminder of her double gold medal win in Athens 2004. The film still raises the hairs on the back of your neck – what an amazing achievement – still to this day! After being whisked off for interviews with 3 Counties radio and the BBC, the students started their workshops. These workshops covered aspects of  Communication & Media  Anti-doping Legislation  Physiology - heartmath  Conditioning and circuit training  Lifestyle management & mentoring I don’t think the students have worked quite as hard as they did with Dame Kelly urging them on! The coaches and tutors for the day were two-time rowing World Champion and Olympian Toby Garbett, six-time World Champion canoeist Anna Hemmings, and international Ironman Triathlon athlete Cathy Wood. International rowing star Charles Cousins, and GB hockey player Purdy Miller, England rugby player Fiona Pocock, badminton Olympian Donna Kellogg, international kayaker Kate Forgione, Olympian sailor Paula Reinoso and Jenna Downing, World Champion in extreme inline skating were also on hand to coach the youngsters. The students had plenty of opportunities to speak with Dame Kelly, photo opportunities and a chance to mix with many other sports performers and athletes from other Bedfordshire academies. The students found the day exciting, enjoyable, and beneficial. For many, the information learned will be used in their GCSE, BTEC and Sports Leaders’ courses. They will also take a way with them the memories of that day – a legacy, just what Dame Kelly’s charity aims to do!

A fabulous day and a chance of a lifetime! Helen Anton AVP- Professional Development

How many people can say that they have met a true Olympian? Well I can! Last Wednesday a small group of us went to The University of Bedfordshire to be part of the Dame Kelly Holmes Legacy Trust for the day. We got to do loads of amazing things but the thing that stood out for me the most was getting the chance to do a circuit training session led by Dame Kelly herself. She worked us really hard and showed us just a fraction of the hard work and dedication it took to win two gold medals atthe Olympics.

Rachael Elmes

www.allsaintsacademydunstable.org RESULTS DAY

The arrangements for Students receiving Results are as follows: AS/A2 Level Thursday 18 August 8.30am – 11.00am, Main Hall GCSE Thursday 25 August 8.30am – 11.00am, Main Hall

Alison Spicer Exams Office/Achievement Leader KS 4

SIXTH FORM SIGN UP DAYS

There will be staff on site at the following times in August for students to officially sign up for the Sixth Form:

Thursday 25 August 2011 9am - 12pm Friday 26 August 2011 9am - 11am

DISTRICT ATHLETICS

The South Bedfordshire District Athletics Championships were held at Stockwood Park Athletics Stadium this year on the 25th May 2011. We had in total 27 students participating and had entries for the following events:

Intermediate Girls: shot put, long jump, high jump, 800m, 100m, 1500m, 200m, 300m and 4 x 100m relay.

Intermediate Boys: long jump, high jump, 800m, 100m, 1500m, 200m, 400m and 4 x 100m relay

Junior Girls: shot put, high jump, long jump, 800m, 100m, 1500m, 200m, 4 x 100m relay

Junior Boys: long jump, high jump, 800m, 100m, 1500m and 200m

All students represented the Academy with enthusiasm and put 100% effort into their events. The Sport, Health and Leisure Curriculum Area would therefore like to congratulate the following students:

Year 9- Sharna Hall, Natasha Geary, Olivia Ayre, Shannelle Bowyer, Hayley Fergusson, Aeilish Wynne, Yemi Omotayo, Danielle Vickers, Tiffany Mtoko, Tayla Read, Krishan Devshi and Grant Macleod

Year 10- Vanessa Ankrah, Rachael Elmes, Ashleigh Coffill, Bethany Pollard, Robyn Hutchinson, Roxanne Stone, Natasha Ryan, Jade Full Brook, Matthew Brown, Colin Sweetman, Cameron Booth, James Allmett, Jason Doorne, Jake Wyatt and Kieran Keasley.

Stephanie Flynn School Sports Co-ordinator & Technician ASAD & Chiltern School Sport Partnership www.allsaintsacademydunstable.org SPORTS DAY

Wednesday 29 June saw another successful Sports Day at the Academy, with many students from Years 9 and 10 taking part in numerous activities including Rounders, Football, Danish Long Ball and Cricket. The day was very competitive with the students demonstrating excellent teamwork and co-operation throughout the day as all 4 of the house teams competed for the points and the ultimate prize of being crowned sports day winners! A thoroughly enjoyable day was had by the students involved, which in the end resulted in a two way battle for the top spot between Team Bolt and Team Ennis, who were separated in the overall standings by just 2 points! But winning their second sports day in a row and reclaiming their title of Sports Day Winners were Team Ennis. Well done to all the students who took part during Sports Day.

Final Standings: 1st = Ennis - 72 Points 2nd = Bolt - 70 Points 3rd = Holmes - 58 Points 4th = Hoy - 54 Points

Mark Gilbert Teacher in P.E.

www.allsaintsacademydunstable.org

NEWS FROM KS4

What a Year we have had! All of the Year 10 Students have sat their Maths and English GCSE, the results of which will be issued to the students on Thursday 25 August, 8.30am to 11.00am, in the Main Hall. At the moment the Year 10 students are out on their Work Experience, I am sure they will embrace the world of work with the same gusto as they have put into their Academic Studies. The Year 11s started their official study leave on the 6 June and at the time of writing this (1ST July!), we still have Year 11 students attending the Academy working on improving their BTEC Grades. This is an indication of how far we have moved with the Achievement Agenda within the Academy. Our KS4 students are not prepared to accept reaching their predicted grades, they want to exceed them! Once again we look forward to issuing them all with a successful set of results in August. The Year 11 students also showed us that not only can they work hard, they can party hard. The venue for this years Prom was Putteridge Bury Conference Centre. The weather was beautiful which meant that we could take full advantage of the terraced gardens. The students pulled out all the stops and looked wonderful in all their finery. The Events Manager at the venue congratulated us at the end of the evening on the way our Students conducted themselves during the evening. A good time was had by all. So another academic year draws to a close; I wish the Year 11s every success as they start down the road towards their chosen careers. Good luck to all those students who are getting results in August and have a good summer break. Alison Spicer Achievement Leader KS4

www.allsaintsacademydunstable.org

www.allsaintsacademydunstable.org CRE8 GROUP - DANCE AND MUSIC

As part of the CRE8 Project, which looks at cross curricular teaching, combining science with the arts, selected Year 10 students went on a trip to Pineapple Dance studios in London. The day was a great success, and the students gained a lot from the experience. They spent many hours in the famous studios, doing workshops, choreographing and rehearsing their dance piece based around genetics, and worked incredibly hard to produce some top quality work. They were also given some time to walk around Covent Garden with myself, watching street performers and taking in the atmosphere. Overall it was a productive and enjoyable day! Kerry Metcalf Teacher of Dance

On the 23 June, 5 GCSE Music students visited the Upper Room Recording Studio in Dunstable. Students worked hard throughout the morning recording various takes of their CRE8 piece composed by the students the week previously. The final result was excellent – the quality of the recording was superb and the students performed their individual parts brilliantly. Well done! Rebecca McEachran Teacher of Music

www.allsaintsacademydunstable.org CRE8 GROUP - ART

On Thursday 23 and Thursday 30 June the CRE8 art group were given the opportunity to spend the day in the art room planning and creating art work around the theme of Genetics. Students had to mind map their thoughts, ideas and understanding of genetics. This mind map then helped students to research genetics, come up with a concept and then develop their concept into a creative piece of art work. Those involved were, Colin Sweetman, Daniel Pickett, Dominic Booth, Jake De-Lastie, Jodie Gillot, Kegan Witton, Lisa- Marie Tuohy, Louise Litchfield, Luksika Tasai, Matthew Brown, Rikki Lanouette, Rory Herbert and Roxanne Stone. Not all of these students were art students, however, every single student created a very clever concept and art piece. I would like to thank these students for all their hard work throughout the two days, they showed a commendable level of enthusiasm for the task and created some fantastic pieces of art work. Elizabeth Parry Second in Creating & Designing

www.allsaintsacademydunstable.org THE BUILDING SITE

On 24 June 2011 a group of 9 students visited the new building site; with Mr Waterworth this group consisted of Mark Wade, Jodie Gorman, Ellie Bastian, Georgia Craig, Lewis Reid, Samuel Giddings, Tara-Marie Mcgann, Luke Hogan and Nathan Marshall. On our entry we were instructed to change into protective gear such as hard hats, gloves, wellies and High Visibility jackets. On our tour around the site we observed the placing of cement pylons and walls of our new building. We were able to imagine our new school in place and being used. We found it very interesting and enlightening. Some students say that it was absolutely amazing and we cannot wait till we are able to move in. Obviously, it has not had much work done so far and will take most of the summer holidays to be able for it to be completed but this means it will

be better created. By Tara-Marie Mcgann and Nathan Marshall

In this interview Ellie Bastian and Jodie Gorman asked Mr Waterworth a few questions about the new school building that should be ready for 2012. Do you think the designs for the new school is a good idea? I think it’s a great idea because unless you are doing sports you do not have to go outside. We have 8 new ICT suites, all new classes, all weather pitch and a new stage for drama. Do you think the other students will like the designs for the new school? Student Leadership Group helped design the peace garden that we are having and helped design the school. How much did this all cost? £15.4 million…£1 million went on the ICT suites. Is it environmentally friendly? Yes there is going to be ground source heat pump, we are going to recycle our waste paper; there are going to be hand dryers in the toilets; solar panels; we shall cut down waste and the building will have lots of natural light because there will be lots of windows. Will there be a variety of different facilities available? Most of the Curriculum Areas have ICT suites. There is a sports fitness room, brand new drama and dance studios, retractable seating in the hall a good music room with keyboards, practice and recording rooms and a separate 6th form room. Do you think visitors would like the look and layout of the school? Yes, it’s going to have the wow factor. It’s going to be fabulous. What are we going to have in the school? *2 meeting rooms Great equipment *The School will be really spacious *New canteen with all new furniture *New LRC visible from the first floor *New changing rooms *Retractable seating in the hall *50 square metres meeting room *Lots of natural light *Indoor toilets

Do you think people who go past our new school building of a night will think WOW? Definitely, the front of the building is all going to be lit up and it will look very posh.

www.allsaintsacademydunstable.org RED CROSS ‘DANCE4LIFE’

Once again this year the ASA dancers competed at the Red Cross Dance For Life competition and put on an amazing show! They rehearsed very hard and the end result was a dance piece that was mature and moving. The judges were very impressed, and the performers received some great feedback. They were given the award for best sound track and theme, as well as an award for raising the most money for the Red Cross out of all the schools at the competition. Well done Dancers!! Kerry Metcalf Teacher of Dance

HOUGHTON REGIS CARNIVAL

This year All Saints not only performed in the arena like last year, but also took part in the procession with an amazing float (sponsored by Aldwyck Housing Association), created by the students and staff, and they performed throughout Houghton Regis. Their performance in the procession included live vocals by Ebony Ankra, dancing in various different styles from around the world, bright and colourful costumes, and cheers and claps from both the audience and dancers themselves. The overall theme of the float was celebrations from around the world, and the students communicated this clearly with smiles and enthusiasm. In the main arena they also performed everything from a comedy mime sketch, through to full Bollywood routines and street dance pieces. They were outstanding, and were awarded first place for their outstanding effort and overall performance. Well Done All Saints!!! Kerry Metcalf Teacher of Dance

www.allsaintsacademydunstable.org SHUTTLEWORTH VISIT

When I hopped onto the mini bus for our journey to Shuttleworth, I felt relaxed and not worried at all. However, about 15 minutes later my feelings started to kick in; I was full of panic, nervousness and worry. Later, seeing the big, black gates of Shuttleworth in front of me, a huge lake was coming into view from the left hand window of the minibus with the canoeing/ kayaking boats laid out next to each other on the shores of the lake, my nervousness started to rise even higher.

Finally, we had travelled to the bottom of the long narrow drive way. The mini bus had come to a stop, the side door slid open and we all stepped out on to the dusty gravel. I looked around and saw a lot of ropes and helmets scattered all over the place. I then started to think about what we were going to be doing for the day.

Once we had been registered and introduced to all of the instructors and found out what we will be doing for the day, my nerves started to steady because I started to think to myself that I was going to be alright and had nothing to worry about. The first activity was an orienteering and problem solving task. My partners and I completed that after a bit of challenge.

Then I started to become very relaxed. By now, it was lunchtime and during lunch we had been told that our next activity was going to be canoeing. At first, I didn’t want to do it as I have a fear of boats and then I had been persuaded by my partners and my instructors just to give it a go. So I did! Throughout that activity I started to enjoy it and we had a water fight between each boat. At the end, my partner decided to jump in the lake and that is how we finished our activities.

After packing everything away, we had a little award presentation and left Shuttle worth. From that day on, I realise that I work very well in a team as well as doings things that cause me to fear them.

Kieron Keasley Year 10 Student

At first, I did not want to go but I was pleased I went in the end because my friends told me that it would be a good laugh. So I went with my friends Shannon, Amy, Hayley, Kieron K, Kieran, Matt, Martin, Colin and Charlie. When I got there, it was a really nice day. It was a big place with a really big building. We had to get into our groups. Most of the schools that were there had to be split up but luckily I was able to stay with my mates at all times. After a short meeting we went to our first activity which was crate stacking; that was fun. Then I did our second activity which was a problem solving one; we had to go through a loop and undo the loop as a team. After we had done these two activities, we went for lunch on the hill at the front of the house. When we had finished lunch, we went to our last activity. It was kayaking and first of all, me, Amy and Shannon would not go in. Then we all said that we would go into the boats. Mr Grubb come over with his camera and took pictures of us in the pond. We all got wet in the kayaking boat and the funniest part is that the person who was in charge was dared to put me in the water. He lifted me up in the boat and I fell in. When we finished our last activity, we had to go back to the hill at the front and have another meeting. We were given a certificate for all the hard work we had done that day. All of us were proud of ourselves because we had joined in everything.

Louise Litchfield Year 10 Student

www.allsaintsacademydunstable.org 11 - 18 UPDATE

Thanks to all stakeholders for your part in providing feedback on whether we should extend our age range to take youngsters from the age of 11. We have received over 600 responses and feedback is very positive. I have been in contact with the Department for Education who have advised me to submit my final proposal once we have our exam results in August. I will let you know as soon as we have any further news.

Tom Waterworth

Principal

ACADEMY CALENDAR 2011/12

Details of All Saints term dates are always available on the website and the events calendar is on the VLE (and subject to minor amendments). Please can I draw your attention to the early closure to students on Friday 06 July 2012 to facilitate our move into the new building and for training on our new ICT systems.

Tom Waterworth Principal

www.allsaintsacademydunstable.org SIRENS Facts Sheet - Exercise and Nutrition Study

www.allsaintsacademydunstable.org ATTENDANCE

Punctuality, Attendance and Holidays

Please ensure that your child arrives on time for school. Students need to be on the school premises by 8.25am so that they will not be late to registration at 8.30am. Students arriving late will receive a 20 minute detention after school on the same day, if a student has more than 3 late’s in any one week they will also be required to do a 1 hour detention on a Friday afternoon with their Achievement Leader.

The school attendance target is 92.4%; any students below this will be monitored and if they drop below 85% All Saints Academy will need medical evidence to be able to approve the absence.

Medical evidence can be any one of the following: Copy of an appointment card/letter, a note from the GP/practice nurse giving reason for absence, a copy of a prescription made out to the student or any other suitable documentary evidence. A decision on whether or not to authorise the absence will be made by the Academy.

Holidays will not be approved by the Academy unless they are in exceptional circumstances.

Statutory School Attendance

I am glad to be able to advise that the Academy attendance levels are currently 92.04% and would like to thank all students and their parents/carers for their continued support. The Academy target is 92.4% and therefore, I ask that everyone continues to help improve attendance so we can reach this level.

I am also pleased to be able to report that we have the lowest level of persistent absentees since the Academy opened. (A persistent absentee is a student with attendance below 80%).

Lates have also dramatically reduced and are also at the lowest ever level.

Current School Year Figures

Year 9 Year 10 Year 11 SSA School year Figures to date. 92.4% 91.4% 92.2% 92.04%

Medical Appointment

May I remind parents/carers to make medical appointments for out of school hours, as far as possible. We do appreciate that this is sometimes impossible and would ask that students only take the necessary time out of school, not the whole day. Medical evidence will be requested for students with attendance concerns.

Absence

All Absences should be reported at the earliest possible convenience on the first day of absence by calling 01582 619707

Emma Gaskell Attendance Officer

www.allsaintsacademydunstable.org FIRST AID PROCEDURES

A reminder to parents/carers of the procedure which the Academy follows in the event of a first aid incident

or in the event that a student wishes to go home due to illness. If a student is ill they will be sent to Student Reception (or Main Reception, if Student Reception is

closed) to be assessed; they will only be referred to the Medical Room if absolutely necessary.

The First Aid qualified member of staff dealing with the student will assess the situation and make contact with parent/carer to get permission to send the student home or to make arrangements for the

student to be collected

Only once all these steps have been followed can the student sign out at Reception

Students should NOT contact their parents via mobile phone and ask to be collected without the above procedures being followed. The Academy thanks parents/carers for their continued support in this regard.

VISITORS’ CAR PARKING

Vehicular access to the site is via Northfields and there is very limited parking for parents and visitors at the rear of the school building. Parents/carers are politely requested to drive onto the site only if absolutely necessary as there is minimal room for movement of vehicles. Please would parents/carers be mindful of the residents in Northfields when dropping children to school in the mornings and collecting them at the end of the day. Thank you for your co-operation and understanding during this period of disruption.

EMERGENCY CONTACT DETAILS

A reminder for all parents/carers to please advise the Academy of any change of address or telephone numbers. It is important that our records are up-to-date, and the correct telephone numbers are vital in order that we can make contact in the event of any emergency.

www.allsaintsacademydunstable.org Diary Dates 2011

AUGUST

Thursday 18th AS/A2 Level Students Results in School 8.30am - 11.00am

Thursday 25th GCSE Students Results in School 8.30am– 11.00am

“ “ Sixth Form Sign up day 9.00am - 12.00 noon

Friday 26th Sixth Form Sign up day 9.00am - 11.00am

SEPTEMBER Thursday 1st Staff Training Day

Friday 2nd Staff Training Day

Monday 5th Sixth Form Induction Week

Term Starts for Years 9 and 12

Tuesday 6th Term Starts for Years 10, 11 and 13

Thursday 22nd Year 8 into 9 Open Evening

Friday 23rd School Closed, Staff Training Day

Thursday 29th Academy Awards Evening

OCTOBER

Friday 7th October World Skills - Sixth Form Educational Visit

Thursday 20th October Year 9 Parents’ Consultation Evening

Years 12 and 13 Parents’ Consultation Evening

Monday 24th - Friday 28th Half Term Holiday

Monday 31st Staff and Students return to School after Half Term Holiday

www.allsaintsacademydunstable.org

Principal: Tom Waterworth BA MA

ALL SAINTS ACADEMY DUNSTABLE HOUGHTON ROAD DUNSTABLE LU5 5AB

Telephone: 01582 619700 Fax: 01582 619701 Email: [email protected] Web: www.allsaintsacademydunstable.org

Business & Diocese of St Albans Science Enterprise

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