GREAT BARR 2015/2016 PROSPECTUS 2 Contents

A C A D E M Y GREAT BARR 2015/2016 PROSPECTUS 2 Contents

Principal/Chief Executive’s Welcome 4 A Message From Our Sponsors 5 Our Vision For Learning 6 Introducing The Q3 Companies 7 Student Support 8 Our Ethos 9 Everyone Has a Say 11 Tailored Learning 13 Key Stage 3 14 Key Stage 4 & 5 15 Extended Learning 17 Kickstart 18 Designed Differently 19 Supporting Individual Learning 20 Academy Life 21 A Day or Year of Learning 22 Dressed For Success 23 How To Apply 24 3 Principal/Chief Executive’s Welcome

Q3 Academy Great Barr is a vibrant and Our Sponsors and Governors are exciting place to learn and grow, where committed to supporting staff in we strive for excellence in all that we do. providing the highest quality learning experience for every young person who In September 2016 we open our new joins Q3. Academy; Q3 Langley. We are delighted to be able to expand our work more Strong, collaborative partnerships with widely across Sandwell. our parents and carers contribute to the ongoing success of their children. Academic achievements are impressive, This relationship begins before entry to and to support this we focus on character Year 7 to ensure a smooth and seamless development and have high expectations transition. of behaviour. Pastoral care is exceptional and Ofsted have highlighted our We have exceptionally high expectations outstanding ethos which is based on of our young people. When they leave Christian values. Excellent relationships one of our Academies we are determined are a striking feature of our work, as that they will have the qualities, academic we help students to develop mutual success and interests that will enable respect, empathy and care for others. We them to enjoy life, and make a positive recognise that education is also about contribution to society. nurturing talent and every young person is encouraged to engage in the wide I am very privileged to be the Principal range of activities on offer at Q3. and I give you my personal commitment to ensuring that ‘No child is left behind‘. We have an outstanding team of staff who work tirelessly to challenge every I look forward to welcoming you to our student to be the ‘best’. They encourage Academies. creative thinking, designing learning to engage and inspire all students. Dr Caroline Badyal Principal/Chief Executive 4 A Message From Our Sponsors

Do it! Get Active!

No matter how motivated we are there Many well known people have had times are times when we flag and need a when they felt they had no energy left - helping hand to keep us on form and they felt de-motivated. Disappointments, energised. failures, illness, these things and many more all go towards shaping how we feel. Working together with others is a good When these times come remember to way to keep motivated as ideas can be handle them in a positive way and push bounced off each other and a good end on towards your goal. result is usually achieved. Eric and Grace Payne were both born There is no road to success but through a in West Bromwich and spent their What of the times when we feel clear strong purpose. Nothing can take formative years in the town. After everything is hard going and motivation its place. Before artists put a brush retiring from successful business is lacking? It is then it is important to to their canvas they see their picture careers and with a passion to help push on, push on through the pain mentally. If you think of yourself in terms young people they sponsored the Q3 barrier, push on through the hard slog. of a painting what do you see?.... Is the Academy in Great Barr which replaced Sometimes the best helping hand you picture one you think worth painting? the former Dartmouth High School. can be given is from someone who will The new £30m building at Great Barr encourage you to remain focused so So keep motivated and energised in all was officially opened in 2010. don’t resent someone trying to help you you do now and in the future days. in this way. Eric and Grace Payne

5 Our Vision For Learning

All staff are committed to ‘making a We are committed to a personalised difference’. They are enthusiastic and curriculum, creating the flexibility to inspire our young people to have a ‘love match all our students’ abilities and fire of learning’. There is a culture of high their imagination. expectation and our young people work hard because that is what everyone does at Q3 Academy. This approach is vital in developing keenness to learn that Our vision for learning is based students will carry throughout their lives. around the whole child ensuring no child is left behind. Students in Key Literacy and Numeracy intervention Stage 3 experience a unique Kick Start is a priority. Students experience a programme, which is designed to engage wide range of teaching and learning their interest and provide an enjoyable techniques to encourage high levels of start to the week. progress at all levels.

6 Introducing The Q3 Companies

Arts Each company has a Personalising providers give Post 16 students access Music, Drama, Visual Learning Director. They look after to a large number of universities. This is Arts, Fashion Design & every aspect of Learning and Personal also supported by business leaders who Photography Development. give generously of their time to advise students and provide them with valuable We make sure that innovation, Design work experience. Communications and Enterprise are central to the whole English, Media and learning environment allowing students The Academy supports the belief that Languages to grow through experience. ‘Education must be about opening new doors, not constantly reopening the A wide range of learning opportunities old ones’. from level one to four is available, and Discovery our strong links with Higher Education Design & Technology, Mathematics and Science

Lifestyle Sport, Hair & Beauty, Business, ICT, Health & Social Care and Psychology

Social Design Geography, History, R.E., Citizenship/Headstart and Sociology 7 Student Support

The Company and tutor structure help Every student should feel a valued, to give each student a well rounded respected and equal member of the education. There is a strong emphasis Q3 family. Each is placed in one of on the relationship with parents and five companies when they arrive. carers, which helps with consistency in They then join a Vertical Tutor Group, encouraging hard work, tackling concerns consisting of 23 mixed age students and promoting good behaviour. Your (Years 7 - 13), supported by Personal child’s tutor is your first Contact for any Tutors. queries or concerns.

We support student learning from primary school upwards. We have a Transition Co-ordinator who works closely with our family of primary schools.

Learning responsibility

Each company has their own board with formal positions of responsibility. This gives students the chance to develop leadership and team building skills.

A Junior Executive team also exists with representatives from each of the companies. In keeping with our Design and Enterprise focus, we provide students with a wide range of leadership opportunities. 8 Our Ethos

We build on our ethos to provide a holistic education that provides enrichment for every student. Spiritual and moral development is a powerful resource within a school’s environment, reflecting the diversity of culture, ethnic background and experience in the local community. So what exactly is meant by ‘spirituality’?

9 We build on our ethos to provide lives, with values like respect, care and a holistic education that provides empathy, which are all key to a happy “Spirituality is concerned with enrichment for every student. and successful life. ‘whole child’ development, taking an holistic view of education. A school Spiritual and moral development is a that continues to address spiritual powerful resource within a school’s Policies to support progress development will find that children environment, reflecting the diversity become more ‘ready’ learners, willing of culture, ethnic background and Our students’ health, safety and welfare to co-operate and contribute within experience in the local community. So are key priorities. You can find out more the school community.” what exactly is meant by ‘spirituality’? about our policies, for example, on topics Standing Advisory such as Safeguarding, Attendance and Council for Religious Education Positive Behaviour at: (SACRE) Our ethos shapes our name. www.q3academy.org.uk The letter ‘Q’ represents the Latin word Quaerere - meaning ‘seek after‘ or ‘search Paper copies are also available at a small for‘. We see life as a journey, during which charge to cover the cost of photocopying. we look to improve our knowledge, our aspirations and develop our values.

The name Q3 represents three high ideals, which we mean to follow in everything we do.

- To seek for that which is good “The development of a sense of - To seek for that which is right identity, self worth, meaning and - To seek for that which is true purpose. It is about the development of a student’s ‘spirit’. Some people Our ethos helps to shape an may call it development of a student’s understanding of appropriate behaviour ‘soul’, others as the development of and family values. In developing ‘personality’ or ‘character’.” character it creates commitment to The Office for Standards in Education care and compassion. Students are (Ofsted) able to build firm foundations for their 10 Everyone Has a Say

Working with families Student Voice and carers Research shows that students who have We have strong partnerships with a say in their education enjoy greater families and carers, to ensure that every success, therefore their views are very student achieves their potential. important to us.

Our Academy Partnership Agreement We have created a unique ‘Diary Room’ outlines the details, covering such issues where students can give their opinions on as good attendance, punctuality and anything about O3 to camera. business dress. We appoint five Post 16 students, known However, the most valuable support any as ‘Junior Executives’ to act as a link parent or carer can provide is to take an between students and the Executive active interest in the Academy, and what team. A Junior Executive chairs a council their son or daughter is doing in terms of forum for each company. Any issues to academic work, Independent Learning, do with Academy life are discussed and and how they are taking advantage of fed into the termly Q3 Academy Council. the extended activities and opportunities on offer. A detailed parents/carers’ handbook is published in the summer term before students join the Academy, and progress reports for all subjects are issued every nine weeks. There are opportunities “Five post 16 students, known as for parents to meet with their child’s Junior Executives, form a link between personal tutor throughout the year. the Q3 students and the Executive team.”

11 Welcoming you Connecting with business Linking in education

Q3 is not just for the students. We want We work within the community to build We have strong relationships with Higher parents and carers to enjoy our excellent shared responsibility and commitment Education providers too. facilities too. for lifelong learning. Birmingham City University is a key We have an ‘open door’ policy, with a Our strong business links allow students partner, offering many collaborative special point of contact; PACT (Parent and to get excellent opportunities in a variety opportunities for staff, students, parents Academy Contact Team) for parents and of work based settings. The Academy’s and the local community. Our work carers. Parental Support Workshops are membership of the CBI and The Black with the Sandwell North Collaborative also available to help parents and carers Country Chamber adds further strength of Secondary schools, Wolverhampton support their children with learning, to our work with business. Grammar School and Great Barr Cluster social and personal development. of Primary schools is gaining momentum all the time. The Q3 website and Learning Platform help to keep you in touch and offer direct Our inclusive vision means we offer lines of communication. flexible learning spaces for adults too, allowing them to benefit from the range of learning and recreational opportunities available.

The facilities we have at the Academy like the restaurant, hair and beauty salon, sports hall and fitness suite are all open to the community.

12 Tailored Learning

Our innovative curriculum allows us to personalise education and offer individual learning pathways

13 Key Stage 3 Years 7 & 8

Subjects include:

During Key Stage 3, we offer a broad curriculum base with three distinct learning pathways.

Our aim is for all students to access the English Baccalaureate subjects.

Accelerated Learners Breakthrough Learners

These students have an additional focus This learning pathway mirrors closely the on Design and Enterprise to reflect the programme followed by most students Academy’s specialism. This enables them during this Key Stage. The only significant to develop entrepreneurial and creative difference is that students are exempt skills further, in preparation for Key Stage from studying MFL. This additional time 4 and beyond. means we can focus more attention on Mathematics, English and Science, Outlook Learners allowing students to fill any gaps in their core skills. Learners following this pathway are on a curriculum programme very similar to the Accelerated Learners, but with extra emphasis on literacy and numeracy skills rather than on Design and Enterprise. 14 Key Stage 4 Yr 9, 10 & 11

At Key Stage 4 students follow a curriculum of compulsory core subjects and additional optional subjects.

At Key Stage 4 students follow a We are confident that our young people curriculum of compulsory core subjects are prepared for life-long learning and and additional optional subjects. well equipped with essential skills to continue their success beyond the Courses offered are wide in scope and Academy. cover both academic and vocational qualifications.

All students are expected to have a mature and dedicated outlook on their education and will in turn be supported by a committed team of Learning Consultants to monitor, support and assess work. This is all geared towards raising achievement. Key Stage 5 For more details on the 6th Form, please ask for a copy of the Academy’s 6th Form Prospectus.

15 Core curriculum includes:

Mathematics | English | Science Physical “At Q3 we recognise the importance Education | Head Start* of being independent and having ownership of your own learning.” *Head Start is a unique course designed to address the spiritual, moral, social and emotional needs of the students in addition to developing leadership and citizenship skills.

Option subjects include:

In addition, we also offer a selection of BTEC approved qualifications.

‘Independent Learning’ will help students: “Learning outside of lessons is a vital part of our students’ progress. Many - Develop the skills, confidence and call this homework, but we prefer motivation needed to study effectively on to call it ‘Independent Learning’; it their own. supports learning and independence and won’t necessarily be done - Consolidate, reinforce and extend at home. The Academy Learning the skills and understanding developed Solutions Centre is open for students in lessons. to work in at the end of the day.” 16 Extended Learning Q3 Academy offers a full and exciting life that extends beyond compulsory study hours. We believe these extra experiences play a valuable part in developing the student.

Students have the opportunity to take part in a wide variety of activities.

At the Academy, sport is a vital part of everyday life; it is one of the many ways in which we actively encourage our students to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Students of all abilities are given the opportunity to represent the Academy in various sports events.

Students are encouraged to take advantage of the many extra-curricular activities and visits abroad on offer; these include trips to museums, galleries, the theatre and other places of interest. These kinds of experiences extend and enhance learning and give opportunities that many students would otherwise not be able to access.

They have the opportunity to take part in our exciting Academy productions and performances, which involve Quavers (Choir) and Qube Players. 17 Kickstart

A great add on to the already rich, extended learning experience is Kick Start. Sessions take place on a Monday morning and KS3 students have these timetabled as part of the Academy day.

These additional sessions change every half-term and allow students to try out a range of holistic, sporting, creative, practical and intellectually stimulating activities that are not part of their normal curriculum.

As well as being enjoyable, these activities greatly enhance the learning experience.

There are lots of opportunities to attend extra-curricular activities and clubs at the end of the Academy day. The activities a student gets involved in are recorded in their Q3 Passport and monitored by the Personalising Learning Director.

Assemblies are held as part of the daily tutorial sessions and are delivered by staff and students.

18 Designed Differently The brief of the Academy was clear: be different, be creative and be world class. The facilities at Q3 not only aim to meet these demands but surpass them.

Bespoke Q3 Design Centre Flexible learning solutions State of the art environments

This truly creative feature of the Academy Students can use a variety of media and A state of the art lecture theatre, science opens up tremendous potential for our ICT devices to help them complete their laboratories and a performance theatre. students. Exhibits, promotions and being assignments and independent learning These are just three of the environments part of a regional centre of excellence for tasks. that ensure learning at the Academy is design ensures our ethos benefits the very 21st century. students of Q3 and the local community.

19 Supporting Individual Learning

Reflection space

A holistic approach to development is fundamental to the Q3 ethos. All students are able to reflect on issues important to them in a number of spaces including the room for reflection and the Big Brother style diary room.

Learning studio

Developing teaching as well as learning at the Academy is important.

The learning studio helps colleagues to refine and share their teaching strategies, ensuring the highest standards at all times.

Quisine

Nutrition and healthy eating are top priority for us. Our Quisine Restaurant offers a variety of eating options to help students and staff enjoy a balanced diet. A number of students arrive early in the morning, using this space to socialise and enjoy a complimentary breakfast. 20 Academy Life

Excellence is achieved in an encouraging atmosphere and with a high degree of personal motivation.

21 A Day or Year of Learning

The Q3 Day Exceptions The Academy opens from 8.00 am. 8.15am Breakfast available There are a variety of Kick Start Mondays (toast and juice: sessions taking place on Monday 9.00-10.00 - Kickstart Year 7/8 no charge) Library mornings, as well as extended extra- Wednesday open for support/ curricular and community activities Academy teaching day ends at 16.00 access to ICT which give students the opportunity to enhance their learning experiences. 9.00am Period 1 10.00am Period 2 The Q3 year 11.00am Tutor Time/ Assembly The year is divided into six half terms 11.15am Break which includes four assessment and reporting cycles. 11.35am Period 3 12.35pm Period 4/Lunch The summer term is extended by one (To include three week to facilitate ‘Transition Week’ with separate lunch the Autumn term reduced by one week. sittings each of 30 minutes) 2.05pm Period 5 3.05pm Period 6 (Wednesdays only) 3.05pm - 5.00pm Extended Activities (inc. Library access and study support sessions) 5.00pm - 10.00pm Community Activities 22 The Academy operates a strict Business Dress (uniform) policy Dressed For Success and all students attending Q3 must How to be worn/other conform to it. The uniform (referred Business Item information to as business dress) helps to instil a sense of pride, reflecting a modern, To be worn on jacket lapel and visible successful and thriving environment. Company identity badge at all times. If lost a charge will be levied for a replacement To be worn on jacket lapel and visible Company pin badge at all times. If lost a charge will be levied for a replacement Navy pin striped suit (Trousers or skirts for females)

White shirt (M) or white rever collar blouse (F) Tucked in

Tie at correct length with the logo Company tie (M) or Company cravat (F) clearly visible

Plain black or navy outdoor coat Not to be worn inside the building

Q3 jumper Over the shirt and below the business No hooded tops, denim jackets, sweatshirts, dress jacket (This garment is optional) cardigans or track suit tops Black lace up or slip on shoes without logos (M) or black low- heeled sensible style shoes without logos (F) Trainers, trainer style or canvas shoes or boots are not allowed

Dark coloured plain socks (M/F) or navy opaque/ flesh coloured tights (no patterns)

Jewellery and unusual hair styles/colours are not permitted. Further information is available on the Academy’s website. 23 How To Apply Contacting the Academy

There may be queries, positive issues and sometimes concerns about which parents a) Children in public care; and carers may wish to express their Q3 Academy is part of the Sandwell views. b) Children with a particular medical Admissions Scheme. You will need to condition. Applications submitted under complete a Local Authority application There are a number of ways to do this: this criterion must be accompanied by form, available from your child’s a medical declaration form (ASU75M) primary school or from the Local - A written comment in the student’s signed by the child’s general practitioner Authority of the borough in which Learning Diary or consultant confirming the condition, you live. Return the form to the Local detailing the child’s needs and specifying Authority by the closing date shown. - A letter to the Personal Tutor why, in their opinion, the preferred school is the only or most appropriate to - Telephone or email contact meet the child’s needs. All applications under this criterion will be assessed by If an issue needs to be dealt with urgently the local authority to decide whether please contact the Academy Receptionist For admission into Year 7 applicants will the child’s need’s can be met most who will ensure that you are referred to need to be aged 11 by September 1st in appropriately by the preferred school. the appropriate member of staff. the year of entry and will be expected to meet the entry criteria. Where the c) The admission of students whose In the unlikely event that an issue has not number of applications for admission is siblings (brother, sister, stepbrother and been resolved to your satisfaction you greater than the published admissions stepsister) currently attend the Academy may contact: number, applications will be considered and who will continue to do so on the against the criteria set out below. date of admission; and Mr. R. Quayle The Chair of Governors After the admission of students with an d) Admission of students on the basis Education, Health & Social Care plan where c/o Q3 Academy of proximity to the Academy using Q3 Academy is named on the plan, the Wilderness Lane criteria will be applied in the following order: straight line measurement from the main Great Barr entrance of the Academy to the main Birmingham entrance of the child’s home. B43 7SD 24 The Grace Charitable Trust

25 Q3 Academy Wilderness Lane Great Barr Birmingham B43 7SD

Tel 0121 358 6186 Fax 0121 358 5967 www.q3academy.org.uk

facebook.com/qthreeacademy.trust

@q3academy

Design and Enterprise Academy maintained directly by the DFE

Sponsor: The Grace Charitable Trust Eric and Grace Payne

Principal/Chief Executive: Dr. Caroline Badyal

No. of students: 1180