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Annual Report

of the Board of Governors

2016 - 2017

1 Board of Governors Designation

Aquinas Diocesan Grammar School

2016/2017

Name Category

Mr Terry McDaid (Chair) Trustee Representative

Mr Peter Coll Trustee Representative

Mr Patrick Leggett Trustee Representative

Mrs Joan Cronin DE Representative

Mrs Geraldine Goodall DE Representative

Mr Brian Jamison DE Representative

Mrs Helen Macklin-Burns Elected Parent Representative

Mrs Margaret Hart Elected Staff Representative

Mr Barry Kelly (Principal) Secretary to Board of Governors

The Aquinas Diocesan Grammar School Community is very proud of its catholic ethos. It is very difficult to do justice to our ethos by listing all the events that take place. It is best experienced by being here as a pupil or a teacher on a daily basis or as a parent or friend by attending the wide variety of celebrations that take place throughout the school year.

It is best reflected in the mutual respect that is evident between all members of our community. As a Catholic school we welcome students from a wide variety of backgrounds – accepting that there are different faith backgrounds and none. Nevertheless, we are Catholic in our welcome and in the Gospel values we try and live up to in our daily relationships in school and with all our partners in the local community and beyond.

2 CONTENTS

Page Number Accounts/Finances 4 Art & Design 5 Biology 8 Business Studies 10 CEIAG 13 Chemistry 16 Community Link 18 Drama and Theatre Studies 19 English 22 French 25 Fundraising 27 Geography 28 Government and Politics 31 History 33 Home Economics 35 ICT 37 Irish 40 Mathematics 42 Moving Image Arts 45 Music 48 Physical Education 50 Physics and Double Award Science 53 Religious Studies 55 Sociology 57 Spanish 58 Technology & Design 61 Year 8 65 Year 9 67 Year 10 68 Year 11 70 Year 12 72 Year 13 74 Year 14 76

3 ACCOUNTS/FINANCES AGM 2016-2017

2017 2016 £ £ INCOME 4,319,58 Department of Education Grants 4,536,670 8 Other Income 68,314 85,037 4,404,62 4,604,984 5

EXPENDITURE 2,684,94 Teaching Staff Costs 2,749,813 0 1,186,45 Non Teaching Staff Costs 1,352,422 1 Other Operating Costs 448,836 438,565 4,309,95 4,551,071 6

Operating surplus 53,913 94,669 Bank Interest Payable (2,675) (3,524) SURPLUS FOR THE FINANCIAL YEAR 51,238 91,145

4 ART & DESIGN AGM 2016-2017

The number of students studying Art and Design in 2016/17 are as follows; Key Stage Nos. of Students Studying Art and Design Key Stage 3 351 Key Stage 4 33 Post-16 12

Staffing Structure The department consisted of three part-time teachers and a part-time technician in addition to a part time ancillary member of staff who was employed throughout the year sharing housekeeping roles with general duties around the department.

Examinations We continued to follow the CCEA specifications at GCSE, AS and A2 Levels, having introduced the new specification for AS level in Year 13.

Aquinas Art and Design Results 2017 Art and Design NI Grammar School Average/Aquinas Grammar Average Level and Grade Band NI Grammar School Aquinas Grammar Average Average (CCEA 2017 provisional) GCSE A* - B 78.8% 84.6% GCSE A* - C 94.8 100% AS Level A - B 88.9% 100% A2 Level A* 18.9% 40% A2 Level A*/A 46% 80% A2 Level A*- B 80.1% 100%

Celebrating Excellence One of our A2 level students was awarded Joint Top Candidate in NI at the CCEA “Celebrating Excellence” ceremony held in Stormont in December 2016 having achieved full marks in his A level Art and Design. One of our GCSE Art and Design students was also awarded Joint Top Candidate, having also achieved full marks. Two of our students exhibited in the CCEA “true colours” exhibition in the Ulster Museum. This exhibition profiles the best and most interesting work from GCSE, AS and A2 levels in Art and Design across Northern Ireland and we were delighted to have two units of work selected; one from an A2 student and one from an AS student. We enjoyed the opening of this exhibition in January 2017 and returned with our Year 11, 12, 13 and 14 students to celebrate the display of work of the two Aquinas students.

Focus for Department 2015-2016 The main focus for the department in 2016-2017 was in line with the school development plan. We explored possible Numeracy strategies for use within our department.

5 Links with Community/Outside Agencies We promoted our department through the continuation of our after school KS3 art club, which was ably and enthusiastically led by two Teaching and Learning Assistants. KS4 and KS5 Art and Design support from the art and design teachers continued two evenings per week throughout the year.

We also promoted the art and design department through the exhibition of student work in the Mall and Foyer areas.

Our A level students entered their work for the Saatchi Gallery School Art Prize, an online competition that provides students with the opportunity to exhibit their work on a public forum through the Saatchi website.

One of our Year 11 GCSE students achieved highly commended in the “Your City” competition where she won art supplies and a guided tour of the Art College.

CEIAG We continue to work extensively with our senior students on their portfolios for applications to further and higher education art related courses and conduct mock interviews to assist them in their preparation. Aquinas A-level students visited UU’s Foundation Art Exhibition in addition to the Faculty of Art, Design and the Built Environment’s Information Evening. They also enjoyed a number of presentations by visitors to the art and design department including past pupil, Damian Campbell who visited and talked to examination level students about the textile pieces he had been working on for his portfolio and Rachel McCloskey who outlined her career and showcased her work as a model designer to Year 11, 12 and 13 students.

Year 11-14 students gleaned insight into careers within art and design in their visit to the RUA Exhibition in the Ulster Museum in October 2016. Year 13 and 14 students enjoyed an intaglio printing workshop in December 2016 which gave them the opportunity to work alongside practising artists in Seacourt Print Workshop and to see successful business opportunities within the field of art and design. Year 11 and Year 13 students also created prints during a visit by Seacourt Print Workshop in June 2017. KS3 Year 8 students researched architecture, providing insight into possible career paths within art and design. Year 10 students learned about Careers in Art and Design and researched a range of careers giving a presentation to their class.

Professional development A member of Aquinas art and design department attended the GCSE Agreement trial, the AS Agreement Trial and the A2 Agreement Trial. One teacher was employed by CCEA as an A2 Moderator and two teachers were employed by CCEA as AS Moderators. All members of staff were encouraged to engage in professional development where relevant and possible.

Summary of main highlights: KS3 KS3 art club students grouped together to create designs for the school bins in an anti-litter campaign.

6 The Year 8 “Welcome to Aquinas” graphic design poster continued with the work of the winning entrant published on the covers of the introductory booklet for our in-coming Year 8 students.

KS4 and KS5 Staff and all examination level students enjoyed an educational visit to the Ulster Museum in October 2016. We viewed the RUA Exhibition, which students found to be beneficial in addressing Objective 1 of the CCEA assessment criteria.

The department continues to offer after school tuition and support for exam students on a weekly basis. The KS3 art and design club continued and proved very successful. We are delighted that art and design remains a successful choice in Aquinas and that many of our students pursue art and design related courses in further and higher education, leading to careers in this field.

7 BIOLOGY AGM 2016-2017

There are two specialist teachers within the Biology department. The number of pupils taught in each year is given below.

Year No. of pupils

2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18

10 Bio 119 118 118 120 121 11 DA 36 28 20 29 17 11 Bio 61 73 70 61 79 12 DA 32 65 13 24 31 12 Bio 59 62 71 80 64 13 Bio 43 37 32 27 34 14 Bio 35 33 26 35 18 Total 385 386 351 376 364

Results overview for 2015 is as follows:

A2: A*-A, 33.0%, A*-B, 62.9.3% B, A-C, 74.0% AS: A, 28.0 %, A-B, 60.0%, A-C, 68.0 % GCSE: A* 12.3%, A*-A 50.6% , A*-B 75.3.6%,

Departmental three year average results compare favourably with N. Ireland figures for the same time period.

At GCSE, and GCE the CCEA specification is used.

The department continues in its efforts to promote achievement and this is reflected in the results above. Pupils who were underachieving particularly at AS and GCSE were identified and given additional help both during and after school hours. Pupils taking re-sits at AS/A2 were given additional classes at mutually agreeable times and after school. Lunch time sessions were also provided. Core material in Double Award and Biology has been supplemented with extension materials for gifted and talented pupils and support resources were also extended for those with special educational needs. Continued extensive use has been made of the shared area and Goggle Classroom has been trialled with GCSE and GCE pupils. It is intended to make more widespread use of electronic communication methods in the future.

The department has continued to focus on sharing good practice and improving the quality of feedback to our pupils. Standard cover sheets for tracking assessments and homeworks continue to be developed. Pupil self-evaluation and peer evaluation sheets are also in use.

Careers in biology are promoted during classroom teaching and through the prominent display of wall posters. Reference to careers is also made in the options booklets and has been integrated into schemes of work. Some topics in GCSE and AS/AS have obvious 8 vocational implications and every opportunity was taken to raise pupil awareness of career issues. Careers materials from the Royal Society and the Society of Biology are being used with A’level students.

Departmental members continue to be vigilant regarding staff development opportunities particularly in relation to the new specifications which have been introduced.

This year, the department once again hosted students from Queen’s University. They both observed and participated in learning activities on two occasions. It is hoped that their experience will inspire them to enter the teaching profession

Highlights of the year have been the fieldwork exercises conducted with Yr 12 and Yr 13. As far as “value added” is concerned, we engage in a range of activities, talks, competitions and educational visits. The “Pathology Week” activities where well received. The school based electronic news sheet “BioBubble” has been revitalised using Google classroom and has provided A’level pupils a means of experiencing stretch and challenge. A wide range of web based A’level resources provide biological content, self-tests, and feedback.

Members of the department look forward to the future with great enthusiasm and are eager to implement the 2017-18 school development plan. It is our aim to continue to be a vibrant, self-improving department through the sharing of good practice and focusing on the needs and aspirations of all our pupils. This will continue to be achieved through the provision of high quality learning and teaching, effective leadership and community involvement. It is our intention that every learner will fulfil his or her full potential at each stage of his or herdevelopment. The interests of the pupils will be at the centre of all efforts to improve educational achievement and address under-achievement. Consequently, a child-centred approach and provision for a diversity of need will continue to be evident in all our work. Quality assurance will be employed in the self-evaluation cycle with the aim of improving learning and teaching, the experiences of the pupils and the standards they achieve.

9 BUSINESS STUDIES AGM 2016-2017

The Business Studies department has 2 members of staff. In 2016-17 we taught 70 pupils at Key Stage 4 and 36 at Key Stage 5.

At Advanced Level the Year 14 pupils studied the CCEA Business Studies specification. In 2017 there was a 100% pass rate at grades A*-C. This compares favourably with the NI Grammar School average of 85%. At AS level 94.4% achieved grades A-C. At GCSE level the pupils cover the CCEA specification. The results were again favourable with 79.4% of the pupils achieving grades A*-B in comparison to the NI Grammar School Average of 71.1%.

In line with the School Development Plan, ‘Together Towards Improvement’ and ‘Every School a Good School’ documents, one focus of the Business Studies department in 2016-17 was to participate in at least two TLNI training sessions and implement strategies to include skilful questioning, plenary sessions, and peer and self-assessment in lessons. Department members also participated in lesson observation and discussed outcomes with a trusted colleague. A second focus was to promote and develop numeracy within Business Studies. Use of maths was identified and included in schemes of work at GCSE and A level. The numeracy skills audit was reviewed and updated.

Within the Business Studies department, we try our best to link the subject content to the development of career thinking. In conjunction with Young Enterprise NI the Business Studies department runs a variety of programmes through which the pupils have the opportunity to work and interact with people from a range of careers. The Company Workshop enables year 13 students to meet and network with Entrepreneurs, Managing Directors, Marketing Managers, Accountants and Sales consultants as well as ICT specialists, giving them an insight into these occupations. AS Business Studies pupils set up and run their own company which involves applying for functional roles. Job descriptions and person specifications are available for each functional position - those students wanting to hold the post of Managing Director give a presentation and are formally interviewed by our Business Adviser. All other posts are interviewed by the function directors from the previous year’s company who know exactly what the post entails. This helps the pupils to develop the skills and capabilities necessary for employability including communication, numeracy, Information and Communications Technology (ICT), working with others, problem solving, decision making, self-management and managing information.

Throughout KS4 and KS5 pupils investigate recruitment and retention procedures taking into account the rights and responsibilities of employees and employers. They consider how employers and employees might maintain an effective working environment as well as investigating the increasing social responsibility of business in the community.

In the first term, the Head of Department attended a South Belfast Area Learning Community meeting. The purpose of this meeting was to share good practice and produce sample answers for the new AS level specification. In the third term the Head of Department attended two events. The first was the launch of the CCEA Revised GCSE Business Studies specification in Stormont, Belfast. The second occasion was the launch of the CCEA Revised A2 level Business Studies specification.

10 The highlights of our academic year included a variety of industrial visits and visiting speakers which added value to the department.

In 2016-17 Aquinas continued to participate in competitions. Eight Year 14 students participated in the First Trust ‘Build a Bank’ competition. This involved setting up a bank in school. It also included carrying out lots of fundraising for various charities, including organising and running events such as a penalty shoot-out for Chest, Heart and Stroke. The pupils took part in presentations and interviews in the Hillgrove Hotel in Monaghan in March and got excellent feedback from the judges.

The year 13 Young Enterprise Company held their meetings every Friday. A business advisor was always in attendance passing on the benefit of his vast experience and expertise. The students gained practical experience of business and enterprise through setting up and running their own real company. The company participated in a Bank of Ireland Sales events in November. This proved to be a successful trading day with the team selling many products and receiving great feedback from customers. The team then went on to take part in the Belfast Board’s trade fair in the Kennedy Shopping Centre in February, interacting with the public and a panel of judges. Our Managing Director won Best Salesperson award on that day. In February the team also submitted a ten-page Annual General Report to Young Enterprise and completed their trading year by taking part in the regional presentations and interviews. One student participated in the Entrepreneur of the Year award for the Belfast Board which was an excellent experience.

Four of our year 13 Business Studies pupils attended the NISP Connect Generation Innovation ‘Night of Ambition’ in the NI Science Park in February. They heard from many inspiring speakers and met a variety of entrepreneurs from across the globe.

Year 12 GCSE Business Studies pupils enjoyed a field trip to Tayto Castle which provided much relevant information regarding production and marketing. They observed the production process and got great pleasure from tasting various types and flavours of crisps and corn snacks. Year 12 pupils carried out their Controlled Assessment and as part of their research they were fortunate to attend an industrial visit to Schrader Electronics in Antrim Technology Park. Michael Quinn, Process Engineering Manager provided them with a wealth of fascinating information about the business.

Year 11 students completed their first GCSE unit which was worth 35% of the overall qualification. The results were pleasing with 83.3% achieving A*-B grades. As part of GCSE Business Studies, year 11 students participated in the Young Enterprise ‘Enterprise in Action’ programme which was held in school in September. This included participating in many practical activities which were extremely good fun as students interacted and worked in teams.

Year 10 pupils participated in a one-day Young Enterprise ‘Project Business’ programme. This ‘taster’ course enabled each pupil to make an informed decision for GCSE, with twenty- two pupils choosing to pursue their study of Business Studies to this level.

11 The Business Studies department also worked closely with the Careers department in the third term to organise a year 9 trip to Coca-Cola HBC (NI) and Aunt Sandra’s Sweet Factory. This was an excellent trip giving pupils an insight into how businesses operate with a focus on contrasting the running of a multinational organisation with a small local manufacturer.

Overall in 2016-17 Business Studies students were encouraged to gain a holistic understanding of business behaviour from a variety of perspectives, generating creative and enterprising solutions to business problems and issues throughout key stages 3 – 5.

12 CEIAG (Careers Education Information Advice and Guidance) AGM 2016-2017

The Careers department has excellent accommodation in the form of an office and spacious resource area for class work and research. This location off the central mall area raises the profile of the CEIAG department, making it visible and accessible to all year groups. The pupils from Year 10 -14 accessed careers staff to consult on a range of issues from subject choices, university and college applications to work related learning. The department has access to the internet within three ICT suites, which is vital for relevant careers information and exploration, university applications and choice of courses.

Mr McAufield was appointed as Head of CEIAG with Mrs Lambon appointed as CEIAG coordinator.

Key Stage 3 This academic year, all pupils at Key Stage 3 continue to receive CEIAG in their overall timetable. The CEIAG department has designed and regularly reviews progressive schemes of work for each year group in line the joint Department of Education and Department of Employment and Learning strategy for CEIAG “Preparing for Success”.

Year 8 pupils participated in an educational visit to Titanic Belfast in June. An exercise in thinking outside the box, Abandon Ship uses actual life rafts supplied by Survitec Ltd. Another workshop, The Panel, gave pupils the opportunity to examine the British and American inquiries that investigated the Titanic disaster and delve a little deeper into what happened on that fateful night. They studied and analysed pieces of evidence before taking on the role of advisory panel members making recommendations future maritime safety.

Pupils also had the chance to view and engage with the nine Galleries at Titanic Belfast and the slipways. The information in these galleries told them of the growth of Belfast, the story of Titanic as well as allowing them to avail of a variety of interactive activities.

Year 9 pupils participated in a CEIAG visit to Coca Cola and Aunt Sandra’s in June. This involved tours and talks from the human resources personnel on product design, recruitment and selection and health and safety in the store. The pupils also were educated about annual turnover, profit margins, customer care, buyer behaviour and sustainability in the two commercial environments.

Year 10 also took part in a “Learn to Earn” programme which was delivered by industry ambassadors sourced through Young Enterprise prior to the Options Day in February.

Key Stage 4 Year 11 and 12 pupils all participated in the CEIAG module which was delivered by members of the careers team. The department have designed progressive schemes of work for these modules.

13 Work shadowing also continued for Y11 pupils. Pupils spent three days in June in various work related environments and this is now embedded within the Y11 curriculum.

All Year 12 pupils received an individual careers guidance interview with the DEL careers adviser. The purpose of these interviews was to develop a careers plan for post 16 study.

Key Stage 5 Year 13 and 14 pupils all have 1 period of CEIAG in their timetable. The department have designed progressive schemes of work for these lessons.

Year 13 Each student participated in a one-week work experience placement in December. The rationale behind the programme is to help students see what a chosen career could offer, to gain self-awareness, confidence and the sense of responsibility needed in work and to provide greater incentive and motivation to work in school. The experience was preceded by classes, which prepared students for the experience. The work experience programme was very successful and has helped students in developing their Personal Career Plans.

In addition to the set week of work experience, a number of pupils attended work inspiration days throughout the academic year in Engineering, Graphic Design, Marketing, Medicine, Pharmacy, Midwifery, Accountancy, Management Consultancy and Law.

All Year 13 pupils attended the UCAS convention in the Eikon Exhibition Centre in March. This event incorporated exhibits from over three hundred third level institutions and proved to be an excellent start to the process of applying for third level study.

The CEIAG department further developed their employer networks this year forging sustainable links with local companies such as Deloitte, Kainos, Schrader Electronics, Charles Hurst and Price Waterhouse Coopers to name but a few. A number of Year 13 pupils also attended additional work experience over the summer holidays in the UK and further afield.

Year 14 The bulk of work with Year 14 students comprised of arranging applications through UCAS (University and Colleges Admission Service), CAO, (Central Applications Office) and admissions to further education and higher education colleges. The enormous administrative task was accomplished successfully by a team effort from Careers staff and senior management. All applications were completed on-line and within the specified deadline. There were also a number of applications to Conservatoires and Schools for Performing Arts.

Individual advice and guidance was on offer from CEIAG teachers and the DEL careers adviser on a self, parent and Year Head referral basis. Pupils were introduced to the UCAS website, various careers software packages and learned how to market themselves to potential employers and universities in the future.

Mock interviews were held in November in association with the Knights of Columbanus, for those Year 14 students who were applying to courses which had an interview element as part of the selection process. This included Social Work, Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary, Nursing, Physiotherapy, Pharmacy and Midwifery. In addition to the interview evening, 14 those students applying to Medicine were offered the opportunity to attend a medical interview training session.

Talks by a range of universities across Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland and Scotland were hosted in the careers room. Information on open days throughout Ireland and the UK was disseminated through display boards in the CEIAG department and sixth form study.

Two Year 14 pupils, after successfully completing their A levels, joined Deloitte on their Brightstart Programme.

All Year 14 pupils on the Special Educational Needs register were interviewed with their parents by the SENCO and DEL careers adviser to plan for their future progression. The DEL careers adviser was present at all annual reviews for pupils on the SEN register.

GCSE and A Level Options Heads of Department contributed to a GCSE Options Booklet for pupils and parents. This contained relevant information about all GCSE specifications, changes in specification and the format under which options would be organised. Coursework implications and requirements were outlined.

An Advanced Level booklet was produced with contributions from Heads of Department. This outlined comprehensively the nature and content of Advanced Level Specifications. All students made provisional choices at the start of March.

An options morning was held for prospective GCSE pupils and an options afternoon for potential GCE pupils were held in February.

Advice and Guidance The DEL careers adviser worked with pupils and parents on different mornings throughout the year. The adviser delivered talks in September to Year 10, 12, 13 and 14 pupils to outline her guidance role in school.

Training  Two members of the department attended the autumn conference and spring conferences of the NI Schools Careers Association (NISCA).  CEIAG teachers attended the annual QUB Careers Advisers Conference  CEIAG teachers attended information evenings at QUB and UU on Arts and Humanities, Engineering, Life and Health Sciences and Law and applying to Yale university.

PR and Marketing  All CEIAG activities were promoted on the Aquinas website.  The CEIAG department have a Twitter account which they use to communicate with pupils, parents and employers. This proved to be particularly useful in promoting the work experience programme for Year 11 and Year 13.

15 The CEIAG department continues to assist all pupils to make informed career choices throughout their time at Aquinas Diocesan Grammar School.

16 CHEMISTRY AGM 2016-2017

There are 3 full time members of staff teaching Chemistry from Years 10 -14.  At KS3, there are 5 Science classes in Year 10 with 117 pupils in total.  In Year 11, there are 17 students studying Double Award Science and 67 studying Chemistry individually.  In Year 12, there are 29 students studying Double Award Science and 59 studying Chemistry individually.  25 students study AS Chemistry in 2 classes.  22 students study A2 Chemistry in 2 classes.

We follow the CCEA syllabus for Chemistry at both GCSE and AS/A2 levels.

Individual Chemistry GCSE results for the Year 2017: A* 5

A 21

B 14

C 9

D 4

U 1

Comparison with 3 year N.I. Averages for Grammar Schools: Aquinas 74.1 N.I. 83.9

AS Chemistry results for the Year 2017: A 7 B 4 C 8 D 3 E 1 U 2

A2 Chemistry results for the Year 2017: A* 2 A 4 B 5 C 3 D 1 U 1

17 18 Comparison with 3 year N.I. Averages for Grammar School Aquinas 90.4 N.I. 86.1

The Chemistry Department has decided to focus its development in 3 areas: 1. Implementation of a departmental Marking Policy within Chemistry 2. Using Data to target set and monitor for Chemistry students in Year 11,12,13 +14 3. Incorporation of Google classroom across the Department

Chemistry has had another great year in Aquinas with 37.5% of our A2 students achieving A*-A grades. One of our students failed to sit any of the A2 units other than the first practical component of A2-3 and as a result achieved a U grade. Without this student the department would have had an overall pass rate of 93.3% A*-C

The Department plays a role in the SBALC and has links to HODs involved in the teaching of CCEA A level chemistry. This year saw the finalisation of the new GCSE curriculum for the year beginning 2017. Members of the department attended content meetings and focus groups developing the new schemes. The department developed and updated resources to facilitate the delivery of this new specification for the year to come.

The Chemistry Department also continued to play an active role in the development of the CCEA curriculum at AS/A2. The department enhanced the links with 3rd level education and hosted the ‘Spectroscopy in a suitcase’ workshop from QUB. This allowed students at both AS and A2 to get hands-on with apparatus that they would not normally have access to. Representatives of the RSC also came in to give a short CIEAG presentation to the AS and A2 students which dovetailed into the event.

This year the department made a concerted effort to run activities for the gifted and talented students within the department. At Senior Level 18 A level students took part in the Chemistry Olympiad, which resulted in James O’Brien being awarded a bronze award. In Junior School year 10 and 11 students took part in the RSC Top of the bench quiz. Both of these events were a great success with the students involved really appreciating the opportunities being provided.

The Chemistry Department looks forward to another productive and challenging year with the introduction of a new specification at GCSE and A2.

19 COMMUNITY LINK AGM 2016-2017

Sixty-seven Lower Sixth students participated in the Community Link Programme and thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to give of their time.

Students travelled to their respective placements on a weekly basis, committing an hour of their private study time to do so. Within St. Michael's, St. Bernard's and Holy Rosary Primary Schools, our students engaged in a wide range of activities such as paired-reading, language classes, art, sports and lunchtime supervision. Four students also had the opportunity to attend neighbouring Bethlehem Nursery School, while four students attended Glenveagh School throughout the year. Two further students also had the opportunity to enhance their language skills by undertaking their placements in Scoil An Droichid.

A group of students organised a monthly musical afternoon at Nazareth House Care Village and many of the Lower Sixth students gave generously to a collection of toiletries and goods that helped supported the work of the Welcome Organisation in Belfast.

Our sixth Form students have continued to take responsibility for recycling within school, giving freely of their break-time to collect recyclable paper.

20 DRAMA AND THEATRE STUDIES AGM 2016-2017

The number of students studying Drama and Theatre Studies in 2016 to 2017 was as follows: Key Stage Number of Students 2014 to 2015: Key Stage 3 330 Key Stage 4 20 Post-16 8

Key Stage Three: All classes were taught by Frances McHugh (Head of Department).

At Key Stage Three: Drama was taught to all classes (approximately 110 pupils in each of the three Junior Year Groups). The subject was delivered during one period per class, each week by F McHugh.

Key Stage Four and AS and A2: F McHugh.

At Key Stage Four: In Year Eleven, there were 15 pupils, continuing the trend of growth (an uptake increase of 25% from last year) and, in the Year Twelve GCSE class, there were 12 pupils (an uptake increase of 33% from last year). All GCSE pupils achieved A to C grades.

In the Year 13 AS class, there were 9 pupils (an 80% increase in pupil uptake) and in the A2 class, there were 4 pupils (a 25% increase in pupil uptake).

We are delighted to have achieved 100% A to B grades at A2 and GCSE and 100% A to C grades at AS.

AS and A2 followed the AQA specification. Traditionally, the specification followed in Aquinas at AS and A2 was the AQA Specification but, this year, the Drama Department transferred our AS pupils over to WJEC (they will continue with this specification to A2): our goal is to further enhance performance results and to benefit from access to local training, which WJEC offers. The results indicate that this was a positive move.

Examination Level A*/B A*/C NI 3-year Grammar Average GCSE CCEA: 92% 100% A* to C: 78.6% AS: 100% Not available A2: 100% A* to C: 86.3%

The GCSE, AS and A’-Level results are summarised below: GCSE AS Level A2 2016 to 2017 A to B: 92% A to B: 100% A to B: 100% 2015 to 2016: A to B: 100% A to C: 100% A to B: 100% 2014 to 2015: A to C: 89% A to C: 100% A to C: 100%

21 We are delighted to have achieved 100% A to B grades at A2 and AS and 100% A to C grades at GCSE.

The highlights of the academic year included: Theatre Visits: Macbeth at The Grand Opera House, Belfast; The Complete Works of Shakespeare: Abridged! at The Grand Opera House, Belfast The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time at The Grand Opera House, Belfast The Pillowman at The Lyric Theatre, Belfast. Cinderella, The Pantomime at The Grand Opera House, Belfast

Workshops: Chris Grant from The Lyric Theatre took Year 13s for a Workshop on multi-roling; Bruiser Theatre Company hosted a Workshop in The MAC Theatre for Years 11, 13 and 14; Tom O’Kelly gave a workshop on voice-coaching to Years 13 and 14

Auditions, Performances and Summer Schools: Aquinas Drama pupils partook of auditions, film work and summer school opportunities: Game of Thrones television series; Oliver Wilson (Year 9) starred in the film, ‘Zoo’; Olivia Feron (Year 9) starred in the television series, ‘Paula’; Lyric Summer School: Youth Lyric; Bruiser Theatre Company summer School at the Mac; The Drama Department collaborated with the English Department to produce the annual, highly-creative Shakespeare Festival, with Year 9; Notably, one of our past-pupils, Margaret McGoldrick, provided over twenty of our pupils the chance to act in the film, Finding Shakespeare, Produced and Directed by Causeway Pictures.

Drama Club Drama Clubs runs three days a week after school. Thank you to: Ellen McDonald, Rachel Singleton, Rebecca Creagh, Alexandra Edwards who trained the First Years in Improvisation. Sophia Power, Matilda Reid, Caoimhe Magorrian, and Lucy Rafferty who trained the First Years in Musical Theatre; Alexandra Brown, Zoe Waterfield, Tom O’Kelly, Aodhfionn McCambridge Geraghty, Katie Lyons, Jordan McCafferty, Tania Murphy, Caitriona McCourt and Patrick Foster who trained Years 9 and 10 in Duologue and scripted group work. Twenty-two acts from the Junior School performed at ‘The Belfast Festival’: all won First to Third Place or were commended.

Moderated Performances Year 14 Performed a Devised farcical murder-mystery piece called Mr Harrington Investigates; Year 13 Performed extracts from the modern tragi-comedy, Stones in his Pockets; Year 12 Performed the Absurd play, Cage Birds along with two Devised plays on the themes of kidnap and a man-hunt; At GCSE, four pupils achieved full marks and at A2 we were Moderated by the AQA Chief Examiner; all pupils achieved A* to B grades in their Practicals, so, warmest congratulations to them. 22 Open Day Twelve acts ranging from monologues to groups performed throughout Open Day. All Year Groups participated and the Performers did an excellent job in representing Drama in Aquinas.

Drama is a highly sought-after qualification by Universities because of the skills it fosters in the pupils: Drama develops confident and articulate public-speakers, team-players and diverse and flexible individuals who are lateral thinkers. We wish all of our 2017 Drama and Theatre Studies Graduates the very best of luck in their bright futures.

23 ENGLISH AGM 2016-2017

Results/Achievements The English department secured 100% A*-C grades from 29 student entries, 11% above the school's overall performance. At AS level 90% of students attained A-C: 83% of the grades attained at both AS and A2 were B and above. As well as the hard work and commitment of students and teachers being injected into the grades, the extra-curricular opportunities afforded to the senior students- outlined below- have a significant contribution to make to student performance.

At GCSE, the results exceeded both the school’s overall performance and the NI grammar outcomes. 100% A-C English Language,(88% A*-B) and 96% in English Literature (87 A*-B)

Aquinas entered The Soroptomist young women's public speaking competition for the second year and we secured 1st and place in the Belfast Region but were beaten in the NI finals.

Extra-curricular enrichment In addition to our longstanding Shakespeare Festival for junior English classes, we entered 15 pupils to The Poetry Aloud competition and one of our pupils made it to the National Final in Dublin. Moreover, Aquinas entered The Soroptomist young women's public speaking competition for the second year and we secured 1st and place in the Belfast Region but were beaten in the NI finals. We were delighted for our A2 student who won The Stephen Spender Poetry Prize for poetry in translation.

Careers & Links with the Community Aquinas maintains excellent relationships and regular contact with The Lyric Theatre and independent cinema, The QFT, for performances, talks, live streaming and workshops- notably this year on A2 text, ‘King Lear’. We ensure we bring in the best local and critically acclaimed poets while providing them with a young wider audience. We have ignited a link with the new Heaney Home place, again frequenting it with GCSE, AS, A2

The English and Maths’ departments continue to develop the transition project shared with feeder primaries so as to ensure the year 8 curriculum is pitched at the appropriate levels of ability and challenge.

Professional development The department welcomed a PGCE student, one full time, one-part time to expand the expertise and provision offered by us. We are secure in our continued development as exam markers for CEA, and graduates of OLEVI Teaching and Learning, as well as having an established network with other English departments through attendance of new GCSE and GCE specification training and the HOD English cluster group. Two members of the department availed of CPD training in use of resources and teaching methodologies most beneficial to pupils in transition from KS2 to KS3

Challenges The English department must continue to adapt to recent shifts in the educational climate including cutbacks, rationalisation at 3rd level education and new specifications at both

24 GCSE and GCE. Our aim is to continue to attract students to the benefits of an Arts/humanities education despite government rationalisation. To do this we must promote enrichment of creative industries for a wide catchment of pupils and maintain a fresh and relevant curriculum which stimulates pupil confidence and performance.

25 FRENCH AGM 2016-2017

STAFF 2016-2017

 Ms S Lambon HOD  Mrs E O’Neill, Mrs T Maguire,  Mrs N Wilson (French Assistant)

PUPIL NUMBERS

 No. of students KS3: 262  No. of students KS4: 69  No. of students KS5: 13

RESULTS CCEA SPECIFICATION . A2 Results –9 students Aquinas No. % NI Av Grade A* 3 33.3 Grade A*-A 8 89 Grade A*-B 9 100 Grade A*-C 9 100 Grade A*-D 9 100 Aquinas 3 year Average A*-C 100% NI 3 year Average A*-C 87.2%

AS Results –6 students Aquinas No. % NI Av Grade A 3 50 Grade A-B 5 83 Grade A-C 1 100 Grade A-D Grade A-E

Aquinas AS Average A-B over 3 years 100%

GCSE–30 Students Aquinas No. % NI Av Grade A* 10 33 Grade A*-A 17 57 Grade A*-B 26 87 Grade A*-C 28 93 Grade A*-D 30 100

Aquinas Average A*-B over 3 years 67% NI Average A*-C over 3 years 67.3%

26 DEPARTMENTAL FOCUS 2016-2017

The main focus of the department in 2016 -17 was in line with the targets for High Quality Teaching and Learning as stated in the SDP.

1. Develop the use of VLE and apps to share good practice, facilitate access to resources and improve communication. 2. To develop effective teaching and learning in the department.

CEAIG The destinations and career destinations of past students of French are highlighted on a departmental notice board to promote careers awareness.

There was a focus in year 10 on the world of work and awareness of French speaking countries throughout the world to coincide with Options Day.

A’level French students attended talks on Law in MCB, a French tutorial with an Oxford tutor in Methodist College Belfast, internship days in Arthur Cox and a residential in St. Catherine’s College Oxford which included individual tutorials in French poetry, seminars on leaver’s destinations, what employers were looking for and writing a personal statement.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT S Lambon was appointed Assistant Principal Moderator for GCSE French. E O’Neill attended training on the new A’ level specification. S Lambon attended the launch of the new GCSE specification for introduction September 2017.

HIGHLIGHTS OF ACADEMIC YEAR 2016-2017 Tom McAlinden reached the final of the Linguistics Olympiad, held in Dublin in July 2017.

Collaborative Activities The next French exchange for A’level French students was planned for October 2017 and March 2018. Year 12 and 13 pupils were matched with a pupil from our partner school the Lycée Maguerite de Flandres in Gondecourt.

Sixth Form Students visited local Primary Schools to teach French and promote language learning for European day of Languages. Years 9 pupils watched ‘Les Choristes’ and all pupils were invited to attend a celebration of languages in Aquinas in the library.

Curriculum Enrichment

French Club The French club ran every Tuesday and Thursday from 3.30-4.30, led by Sophie Rousseau and Nathalie Wilson, with a teacher in attendance. Pupils came along to practise their conversation skills.

27 Cross-Curricular Activities ; ICT, Numeracy and Literacy Tasks are in place in schemes of work at KS3.

The French department continues to work hard to promote healthy numbers at all key stages and to promote a positive experience of language learning, and cultural awareness and a high level of competence and performance at all levels.

28 FUNDRAISING AGM 2016-17

Year 13 and 14 students helped as volunteer street collectors to assist with various external charities such as the NI hospice Flag Day collection in Belfast City Centre.

The Year 13 and 14 pupils raised £220 for the Young Minds Mental Health charity in October.

In November, the annual 'Aquinas Christmas Appeal' was officially launched. This campaign is designed to aid people living closer to home. Pupils work together with SVP, Bryson House and the Salvation Army to bring Santa to those less fortunate than them. Hampers were prepared for 75 families and Christmas presents and clothes bought for 62 children. Food hampers and gifts were also given to Social Services and the Morning Star hostel. The donations and gifts had an estimated value in excess of £3500.

This year’s Lenten Trocaire campaign focused was on climate change. A number of fundraising events were arranged using the house system. Ms McAnulty’s Year 10 class raised the highest amount of money. Five pupils achieved Gold and fifteen pupils were awarded Silver Solidarity Trocaire awards which were presented by Sharlene Barry from Trocaire. There were a number of various raffles, cake sales and sponsored events but the most memorable was the Tug of War competition which provided great entertainment during break time. Year 8 were the Junior school champions, Year 11 were the best senior school team and the Classroom assistant team showed the teachers how to win at this event. Well done to all who pupils, staff and parents who participated with great enthusiasm and donated with such generosity. Year 14 organised a very successful Table Quiz in the Errigle Inn which was very well supported by Year 14, past pupils and parents which raised £1355 for the annual Trocaire campaign.

Individual students organised bun sales through it the school year to raise £110 for NI Netball Development squad, £168 for NI Chest Heart and Stroke and £258 for Habitat for Humanity.

A number of staff and students ran the Belfast City Marathon raising funds for NI Brain Injury Charity.

29 £476.30 was raised by Year 10 for the Children’s Heartbeat Trust. June 2017

30 GEOGRAPHY AGM 2016-17

The academic year 2016-17 had a total of three different teachers teaching across the seven year groups. The Head of Department continued to take the A’ Level classes with a total of nine students at A2 Level and nine students at AS. The GCSE class was taught by two other assistant teachers. All KS3 students were taught by all three members of staff.

GCSE AS Grade 2017 Grade 2017 Grade 2017 A* 1 A* 0 A 2 A 3 A 1 B 12 B 2 B 1 C 7 C 1 C 6 D 8 D 2 D 1 E 4 E 1 E 0 U 1 U 0 U 0 Total 35 Total 9 Total 9 33.3 % A % %A* 0% 55.6 11.1 % A* 2.9% % A-B % % A % 66.7 22.2 % A*-A 8.6% % A-C % % A*-B % All public examinations in Geography are serviced through the CCEA. A key target for the year ahead (2017-18) will be to improve uptake (GCSE and A’ Level) and to improve the standard of grade at GCSE, focusing on the B/C boundary.

The bulk of the A2 grades were at the C grade, which for some of those students was a good achievement. One student achieved a D which was disappointing, but timing was a massive issue for this child. The AS grades were good with many of the C grades only a few marks away from a B. The aim will be to achieve 100% A*-C.

Although many of the GCSE students got grades A* - C, there were too many that fell below C grades and this affects comparative statistical analysis. The problem I feel is the Controlled Assessment that takes up far too much time at the expense of Paper two. This must be rectified next year by getting the work done well before Christmas.

The department also brought in external speakers to further engage with the Year 14s. Colleagues in the Department have been trained in using the school VLE and have successfully posted updates to the Geography section continually editing and changing information as necessary, as well as uploading student resources.

31 A Level In Year 13, we continued with the Belvoir Park Forest Woodland Study in preparation for the Fieldwork section of the AS1 paper; this continues to work well. At Christmas time, the Year 14 students enjoyed the experience of observing Belfast’s Peacelines, and surveying tourists at the Christmas Market. This gives the students an important insight to their own city as well as valuable background information for the Ethnic Diversity Module in the A21 paper. All these experiences add a lot to the course.

We continued to bring students to evening lectures at the Queen’s Geography Department in the first term. These are lectures especially organised for sixth formers by the local Geographical Association.

Dr S Royal from QUB and Mr Stephen Roulston from CCEA addressed the A2 group before and after Christmas respectively. They gave good advice to the students re exam technique, which was prudent given that he is the Chief Examiner for Geography at CCEA.

GCSE In Year 12, the students completed another three day / two night residential fieldwork course in Fermanagh at the Gortatole Outdoor Education Centre. Students found this experience really enjoyable and their time was fully utilised both during and after the fieldwork on the River Cladagh. Pupils worked until around 8 o’clock each evening and then participated in orienteering or climbing wall activities. On the last day, pupils engaged in wet caving, which was certainly a character building experience; but very worthwhile. All activities are led by fully trained outdoor instructors with health and safety important throughout. We aimed to meet the end of January deadline as the submission date for the task.

Curriculum and Schemes of Work at KS 3 The topics at Key Stage 3 are relevant and thought provoking and colleagues within the department continually reviewed the topics taught and assessed how they could be best taught to engage pupils. To that end, the Head of Department has stressed to colleagues that the department should consider pupil experiential learning in line with the Revised Curriculum. The rewritten schemes now have this at the heart of learning in KS3. Life-long values of mutual respect for all (for example, Ethnic Diversity and issues of migration) will also form the basis of "Developing pupils as Contributors to Society".

Fieldwork is a significant part of the learning within Geography at KS3. The following is a list of KS3 fieldwork tours:  Year 8: Traffic Study on the Ravenhill Road  Year 9: Tour of the River Dun, The waterfalls of Glenariff and Cushendun.  Year 10: The Peaceline Tour.

In terms of Value Added, the Geography Department helped assess the pupils’ ICT skills in Year 9 and this was reported upon in these pupils’ reports.

In conclusion, the Geography Department has contributed positively to the SDP and has fully embraced aspects of DE documents such as ESaGS and TTI. The Department was successful in meeting its primary examination targets at A’ Level and takes pride in the

32 students who achieve not just to the highest standards but who also enjoy the lifelong learning experience. ghest standards but who also enjoy the lifelong learning experience.

33 GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS AGM 2016-17

The Politics department consists of one teacher and is taught at AS & A2. There were 17 students entered into AS Politics and 13 students entered for A2 Politics in 2016-2017. Going in to 2017-2018 we have 19 students doing AS Politics.

The A2 results were our strongest ever and once again we had 100% of our students achieving grades A*-C. Our results far outstrip the NI Grammar School averages and particularly pleasing was our 23% A* and 69% A*-A grades.

Upon analysis, the results in both units at A2 show continued improvement year on year. Much of the success this year is down to a new focus on a “raise the bar” initiative where I work with students on individually identified areas of improvement. Teaching both units concurrently continues to have a positive impact and this is constantly under review.

At AS-level a new specification was introduced and whilst the headline results are relatively strong in terms of NI Grammar school averages they are not just as strong as the A2 results. Two students (accounting for 20%) of our AS students had significant pastoral issues and did well to sit the exam. For the remainder of our AS our students, the marks often came very close to a grade above the one they achieved and this leaves them in a strong position going in to A2. For example, six students came within 3% of the grade above the one they achieved. These students have all been set individual targets for A2 levels. They have been greatly encouraged by the A2 students’ results from this year, some of whom were in similar positions after AS-level.

The headline results are as follows:

A2 Level – 100% A*-C (9% above NI Grammar ave) 92.3% A*-B (20% above NI Grammar ave) 69.2% A*-A (36% above NI Grammar ave) 23.1% A* (16% above NI Grammar ave)

AS Level 77.8% A-C (100% A-C for those continuing to A2 level). 55.6% A-B 23% A

The department continues to embrace documents such as Together Towards Improvement and provide support for our learners through mentoring, discussion and extending the high academic achievers, we set high expectations and standards for our students. Our “Raise the Bar” initiative is integral to this.

As well as the high academic performance of our students, one of the highlights of the academic year was our annual trip to Parliament Buildings at Stormont in spite of the Assembly not functioning. The students were also given a tour of Stormont and an

34 educational talk on the mechanics and politics of the Northern Ireland Executive & Assembly.

In the classroom and in line with the policy document Every School a Good School (April 2009) a variety of teaching strategies and methodologies continue to be deployed to ensure that political information is accessible and enjoyable for a broad range of academic abilities. Group work, peer assessment, individual learning, one to one feedback from the classroom teacher are all strategies deployed to improve the quality of teaching and learning in the Politics classroom.

The use of multimedia is a continuing example of an approach to bringing US, UK & local politics to the classroom. Students can now follow A-level politics via a custom made twitter feed for them and we are now exploiting fully the iPad training by incorporating the use of the new application Google Classroom.

I set a target of increasing A* and A grades in Politics last year and this was achieved. It remains a target, along with 100% A*-C.

35 HISTORY AGM 2016-17

There are two full-time teachers of History and a teacher of History and Politics within the department. 360 pupils were taught at Key Stage 3. At Key Stage 4, 91 pupils were taught and 46 pupils at Advanced Level.

NICCEA GCE History is the specification followed for Advanced Level History. In 2017 there was a 100% pass rate at grades A*-C. This compares favourably with the NI Grammar School average of 84.9%. 79% achieved grades A-C in AS History. At GCSE level the pupils also cover the NICCEA specification. The results were again favourable with 91.8% of the pupils achieving grades A*-B in comparison with the NI Grammar School Average of 79%.

In line with the School Development Plan, Together Towards Improvement and Every School a Good School documents, the History department focused on ensuring that the TLNI training regarding effective questioning and plenary sessions was implemented into our learning and teaching. We also worked hard to update our AS resources and assessments for the new specification and to plan ahead for the new A2 modules. We continued to update the Revised GCSE resources after receiving our first full set of results in 2016.

As always, CEIAG was promoted by all staff within the department through discussions prompted by new topics, pupil questions and option decisions at GCSE and A level. Through our participation in the Options Days we have worked with the pupils and their parents to facilitate well-informed subject choices. We have continued to have a notice board displaying Careers Advice and information. Our schemes of work highlight different topics and areas where careers and related issues can be discussed, such as employment trends and their impact on politics.

All teachers were encouraged to attend courses as appropriate to update their knowledge and skills such as the CCEA launch of the new GCSE specification. The in-school Teaching and Learning NI sessions were attended by all teachers in the department and work was completed with regard to Assessment for Learning. All members of the department participated in i-Pad training at the appropriate level and in the summer term attended the Google Classroom training sessions. One member of the department marked CCEA AS papers, while another marked GCSE Unit 2 papers.

During the year a variety of projects and trips were undertaken to enrich the learning experience of our pupils. At Key Stage 3 our Year 8 pupils Attended workshops provided by the Anglo-Norman Outreach Programme based in Armagh. Our Year 9 pupils completed excellent empathy tasks about the First World War. The Year 10 pupils continued to produce extremely high quality work on a range of topics such as the Causes and Consequences of the Partition of Ireland, the Black Peoples of America and the Holocaust. Two Year 13 pupils were selected to participate in the Lessons from Auschwitz programme run by the Holocaust Educational Trust. The focal point of this was a trip to Auschwitz in April 2017. At Key Stage 4 our Year 11 pupils sat 50% of their GCSE course in the summer term and achieved superb results in Unit One. 32% of them got Grade A or above, 68% got Grade B or above. The Year 12 pupils completed controlled assessment to a very high standard and also are to be commended for their excellent results with 65.9% gaining an A* or A and 95.1% gaining an A* -B. At A2 level the achievements of our students were

36 tremendous. In Year 14, 44.4% of pupils gained an A* and 72.2% got A grades or above. Both year groups attended excellent AS/A2 lectures and workshops directly related to their advanced level courses at the Somme Heritage Centre in Newtownards, Co. Down. The History Department continued to offer support and opportunities to all students, within a positive and active environment, liaising with the SEN team where necessary.

During the year daily, informal meetings continued to be a vital and practical aspect of ongoing evaluation and planning within the department. These discussions regularly led to examples of good practice and successful teaching techniques being shared. This undoubtedly contributed to the outstanding achievements and progress of our pupils.

In addition, outside of the classroom teachers from our department were involved in a range of extra-curricular activities, school trips and fundraising events. These activities brought an extra dimension to pupil-teacher interaction, contributing to the positive relationships which characterise our department, making the academic year 2016-17 so productive for our department.

37 HOME ECONOMICS AGM 2016-17

Staffing Two full time teachers, one teaching 1 Year 8 class and one technician who is a student on work placement from UUC.

The number of students who studied Home Economics in 2016/17 were as follows:

Key Stage No. of Students Key Stage 3 352 Key Stage 4 54 Post-16 24

The specification followed at GCSE, AS and A2 is CCEA Home Economics for Food and Nutrition. The results are summarised below;

Level A* A*/A A*/B A*/C NI grammar average A*/B GCSE 19% 57% 95% 100% 86% AS Level 50% 64% 86% A2 Level 22% 44% 56% 100% 69%

Four pupils from Year 11 entered in the Mount Charles Whizz Kids cookery final competition in November 2016 but due to Mount Charles collaborating with The Irish News the criteria changed and our pupils became ineligible as the competition was changed to KS3 entrants. This was disappointing as the pupils had put significant effort into planning and preparing their entries.

Joseph Murphy, a Year 12 GCSE Home Economics student, represented the school in the Forestside Young Chef of the Year competition too and he was highly commended for his salmon & pea risotto and sundried and parmesan bread. A representative from the Livestock and Meat Commission gave cookery demonstrations to Year 10 pupils on the value of eating local produce and the benefits of eating meat for teenagers.

Teachers have used Google Classroom more than Showbie this year but difficulties arose with lack of internet provision in the Department and pupil’s inability to use the app effectively in class. We plan to develop more resources to use on Google classroom in 2017- 18 to reduce the amount of photocopying within the department. Showbie was used to a lesser degree as more it was deemed the Google Classroom is easier to use and offers more versatility than Showbie.

Subject material was revised in each Key Stage with emphasis on highlighting where numeracy, literacy and CIEAG was being taught throughout the curriculum, particularly in KS3. The department Twitter account was used extensively to promote the department and encourage parental engagement. A new Instagram account was also created proving more popular with pupils and photos have been extensively “liked” by a wide user audience.

38 The new curriculum for AS Nutrition and Food Science was delivered to the Year 13 class and results were excellent.

All pupils at Key Stage 3 completed practical, oral and written coursework at the end of the 3rd term. Year 10 pupils did not complete the basic Food Hygiene Exam this year as the cost had increased and it was deemed too expensive for pupils and the content was considered too advanced for this Key Stage.

Ms Catriona O’Boyle who was on placement from UUC, left in June and will be replaced by Ms Naomi Beattie for the academic Year 2017/18.

39 ICT AGM 2016-17

Staff 2 full time (Miss C McGowan & Mrs M O’Hare) Mrs O’ Hare currently off sick

KS3 ICT Junior Staff Miss Mary Beecher and Mrs S McKenna

Pupils at KS3 352 (119 Yr 8 and 117 Yr 9 pupils & 116 Yr 10)

Pupils at KS4 56 19 pupils in Yr 11 Computer Science 37 in Yr 12 (29 pupils ICT and 8 Computer Science)

Pupils at KS5 26 17 pupils in Yr 13 and 8 pupils in Yr 14

The department follows the CCEA ICT Specifications at GCSE & A Level. In-addition to this the department also offer CCEA AS/A Level Digital Technology and the WJEC Specification for GCSE Computer Science.

Results for summer 2017 are as follows: A* A B C D E U

GCSE ICT 39.29% 50% 10.71% 0% 0% 0% 0%

GCSE 28.57% 14.29% 28.57% 28.57% 0% 0% 0% Computer Science AS ICT 0% 23.53% 23.53% 17.65% 29.41% 5.88% 0%

A Level ICT 0% 18.18% 45.46% 18.18% 9.09% 9.09% 0%

There were not any Year 11 pupils were entered for a Module this year.

Results Compared with NI Grammar School 3 Year Average Aquinas Grammar School NI Grammar School Differential (Summer 2017) (3 Year Average) GCSE (A* - B) 100% 85% 15%

A Level (A* - C) 82% 79% 3%

Departmental Focus for 2016 / 2017 40 The ICT department continued to contribute to the new School Development Plan. The main focus of the School Development Plan is to improve teaching and learning within the department by; engaging in TLNI taster sessions, using starters skilful questioning, plenary sessions. Moreover, to discover new ways on how to challenge and engage pupils. In addition to this; to invite a colleague to observe lessons and discuss with reviewer; WWW, EBI for formative and constructive feedback. The department continued to use the Data Tracking facility available on SIMs for examining assessment across KS3, GCSE and A Level and by using chance predictors and baseline testing to predict target and aspirational grades for pupils.

After school programming activity using the BBC micro: bits were developed in an after school extra -curricular club at KS3 and were displayed during the school open day. The pupils were intrigued about the BBC micro: bits thus they will be introduced into the year nine curriculum next year.

CCEA AS1 & AS2 Digital Technology was introduced to the curriculum which will replace the old A’ Level ICT. Resources and schemes were developed for the teaching of this new course by Miss McGowan. Time was also spent preparing for the new GCSE Digital Technology specification for teaching in sept 2017 for examination June 2019.

ICT continued to be a popular subject with one Year 11 Computer Science class and two Year 12 GCSE ICT classes and strong numbers at AS Digital Technology. This is the second year of GCSE Computer Science. This was welcomed by pupils and 19 students are currently progressing into Year 12.

The curriculum at KS3 continues to give pupils the skills required to make full use of the ICT provision within Aquinas. The programming content allowed pupils to gain a taste for the ever expanding software development industry, thus enabling Year 10 pupils to make informed choices for GCSE. Year 10 students participated in the Key stage 3 ICT accreditation programme where students completing a ‘Using Mathematics and ICT Level 5 task using the ‘scratch’ programming environment.

Careers Education, Information and Guidance (CEIAG)

The ICT department realises the importance of educating pupils with regard to Careers. Pupils received opportunities to investigate rewarding careers in ICT throughout the 2016 – 2017 academic year. Advice on GCSE ICT, GCSE Computing and A Level Digital Technology and associated career paths was also disseminated to parents and pupils during the Options Days in March 2017 and a guest speaker from Sentinus delivered a careers assembly to Year 13 pupils in relation to careers in ICT and engineering.

On the 7th February Year 13 students visited ‘Allstate’ for Digital Technology and also also attended a ‘Bel Tech’ conference in the Titanic building on the 7th April. These trips were organised to allow the students gain an insight into the careers jobs and opportunities available in the ICT industry, and they gained a hands on experience with emerging technologies such as 'Virtual Reality' and 'Robotics'. 41 In June 2017, 22 Year 13 Digital Technology pupils visited Google premises in Dublin to visit staff in the company to discuss career opportunities. They also participated in interactive sessions using up and coming digital technologies.

Professional Development

Links with Allstate and the Nerve Centre at Ulidia continued and the ICT department welcomed Mrs Beecher into the department from November to June 2017. The department members attended a support event in May, held in Assumption Grammar School, Ballynahinch, for the new A Level Digital Technology Specification. A moderation event for the WJEC Specification in February in Antrim Grammar School was also attended.

Miss McGowan attended a Leadership Training course for middle leaders which was held at Rathmore on the 21st February 2007.

Miss McGowan attended the TLNI course where she explored how to develop skills and strategies to aid improving the quality of teaching and learning within the department.

42 IRISH AGM 2016-17

Roinn na Gaeilge

The academic year 2016-2017 was a very productive one. The teaching staff in the department consisted of two teachers. Both members of the teaching staff are senior members of the senior examining teams with CCEA. Their experience of working for CCEA adds to the quality of the teaching and sharing of good practice within the department.

111 students were studying Irish in Key Stage 3, 28 were preparing GCSE Irish and 3 students were studying in sixth form. It was pleasing to note that the total number studying Irish in the school has increased. We also have a cohort of students who come from Bunscoil and Irish speaking backgrounds and they contribute significantly to Irish in the school and participate in the activities run by the Irish Department.

The Irish department follows the exam specifications laid out by CCEA. The Department was pleased with the results attained by the Irish students in public examinations. Our A2 student who studied in Our Lady and St. Patrick’s College, Knock gained a C grade in her examinations. 100% of our AS students gained a grade A-B. 70% of our GCSE students gained A*-C grades.

The Irish department, in accordance with the spirit of the School Development Plan continued to roll out data tracking across all year groups. The assessments and data collated were used to effectively inform teaching. All pupils are encouraged to participate fully in their learning and a variety of teaching strategies are used to encourage teachers and pupils to share their experience with their peers. The Irish department also further developed resources for the new GCE specification. More emphasis was also placed on active learning activities in the classroom.

The teachers in the Irish department are very aware of preparing their students to take up the challenges of the world of work and efforts have been made to incorporate useful careers information at relevant stages of the pupils’ progress. Pupils are told about courses available to them and they are also made aware of the wide opportunities available to language graduates. Emphasis is put on the value of the transferable skills acquired when learning a language. The topic of professions and work is also studied in Year 10 to coincide with the work of the Careers department.

We continued to work collaboratively with our neighbouring primary schools. As part of the celebrations for European Day of Languages, students of Irish delivered lessons in local primary schools. Pupils from the Bunscoil ‘An Droichead’ took part in a quiz with our pupils and enjoyed taster sessions of Spanish and French which were delivered by our Modern Language Assistants and Form 6 students.

Apart from striving for academic excellence, all pupils are encouraged to enjoy the wide range of cultural experiences open to them. In February pupils took part in making St Brigid crosses. An event celebrating linguistic diversity was also held in the library in European

43 Languages Week. The Irish department also participated in Language Film Day and the Year 8 pupils enjoyed a special showing of ‘Amhrán na Mara’. A céilí was organised for Year 8 for St Patrick’s Day.

This year we continued to emphasise the importance of motivating our pupils to use their Irish. Special congratulations go to our Year 10 pupils who achieved the ‘Fáinne Airgid’ (silver fáinne ) at the end of Key Stage 3. Pupils took part in Feis Bhéal Feirste and one of our year 8 students was placed third. Pupils were also encouraged to participate in other county and GAA oral competitions and again scholarships were won. The school entered the Ashbourne Shield oral competition and three of our Keystage 3 pupils won scholarships for the Gaeltacht.

This year again we invited the organisers of courses in Rann na Feirste to speak to parents of those interested in going to the Gaeltacht and we were delighted with the response. A significant number of our junior pupils attended the summer course for juniors in Coláiste Bhríde, Rann na Feirste in the Donegal Gaeltacht.

We are very pleased that so many of our students not only performed well academically, but also took advantage of the opportunities provided by the department to use and improve their Irish in cultural and social settings outside the classroom. We were delighted to hear that one of our past pupils has just qualified as an Irish teacher adding to the growing number of our pupils who have gone on to take up employment in an Irish speaking workplace.

Rath Dé ar an obair.

44 MATHEMATICS AGM (including NUMERACY) 2016-17

In 2016 – 2017 there were 7 teachers, including 6 specialist Mathematics teachers, three of whom were full-time and 3 Mathematics Specialist Learning Support teachers contributing to the teaching of Mathematics.

Pupil numbers across all key stages are very strong: Key Stage Pupil Numbers KS3 360 KS4 (GCSE Mathematics) 240 (47 with GCSE Maths completed June 2017) KS4 (GCSE Further Mathematics) 104 (18% increase on last year) KS5 (A-Level Mathematics) 84 (20% increase over two years) KS5 (A-Level Further Mathematics) 4

Results in the Mathematics department were as follows: GCSE Aquinas Aquinas 3 yr Average NI 3 yr Average A*-B A*-B 2017 A*-B Year 11 CCEA GCSE 100% 98.5% 76.4% Higher Tier (71.7% achieved A*) CCEA GCSE 79.3% 82.9% 76.4% Mathematics (100% A*-C) CCEA GCSE Further 95.1% 88.8% 83.3% Mathematics (100% A*-C) A level A*-C Aquinas 3 yr Average NI 3 yr Average A*-C A*-C CCEA AS 89.6% 85.3% Mathematics CCEA A2 97.0% 89.2% 87.7% Mathematics CCEA AS Further 100% 72.2% - Maths Edexcel A2 Further 100% 100% 93.9% Maths 2 students – both A*

The Mathematics department was extremely pleased with these results which showed a sustained high standard of achievement (all subjects above the NI 3 year average, and most more than 5% above), including once again 100% A*-C at GCSE and, further increase in standard at almost all levels.

This was accounted for by the continued hard work of staff and students, with added benefit due to an increase in contact time at GCSE allowing more effective consolidation and to the provision of small-group support tied to focussed use of past examination questions at GCSE and A Level.

The Mathematics Department set short, medium and long-term targets with main foci as follows: 45 1. Effective Leadership: Responsibilities across Department contribute to improved Quality of Achievements and Standards and to Child-centred Provision 2. Child-centred Provision: Focus on effective questioning, plenary sessions and peer and self-assessment (active learning), AfL (Marking and Feedback) 3. Quality of Achievements and Standards: Contribution to Whole-School Numeracy (Leadership and subject), Literacy and ICT 4. Quality of Achievements and Standards / Child-centred Provision: Focus on ION Years 11 / 12 and G&T, EAL

These targets were re-visited and reviewed at key times during the year and final review showed clear progress across all targets. Numeracy was a key focus for 2016-2017 and was targeted in several ways which included:  Increased teaching time at KS3 and GCSE which allowed more time for quality teaching and learning and for consolidation of learning  Setting up of a whole-school Numeracy Working Group leading to the launch to staff by the Numeracy Coordinator / Head of Mathematics of a renewed Numeracy Focus  Continued participation in the KS2 / KS3 Numeracy transition project by the Head of Mathematics and one other teacher and follow-up at Departmental level  Continued links with feeder Primary Schools through co-ordination and hosting of a KS2/3 cluster group for Bar Modelling training (facilitated by the KS2/3 Transition Project EA team)  Provision of after-school support for Year 11 and Year 12 Foundation students  Provision of small-group support for 23 students identified through use of key data. Resources developed for this were made available to all teachers and students.  Provision of new GCSE revision / practice books for Year 11 and Year 12 students

At KS3 the two Using Mathematics tasks currently delivered were reviewed. These tasks also address Communication and ICT. The end-of-Key Stage was changed and the other was improved to more effectively address Level 5 UICT.

Enrichment was provided through the UKMT challenge, the Linguistics Olympiad and the newly formed Puzzle Club. This year 54 students entered for the UKMT Challenge at junior, intermediate and senior level, achieving a total of 3 gold, 15 silver and 18 bronze awards. A year 9 student got through to the Junior Kangaroo round and a Year 11 student got through to and achieved a merit in the Hamilton challenge. It was felt that success for some students led to increased confidence and engagement in class. One student achieved Silver Standard in the All Ireland Linguistics Olympiad and participated in the International Linguistics Olympiad in Dublin this summer. The above successes were all celebrated on the school website and through Twitter.

In addition, Credit Action provided Year 9 and Year 11 students with a very engaging approach to Financial Capability and Numeracy mentoring for younger students by KS5 students proved to be beneficial to both mentors and mentees. More than twenty students from across all key stages participated in Open Morning in the Mathematics Department, engaging with P7 pupils and parents in a variety of activities, gaining confidence from the experience and ensuring by their enthusiasm that the experience of those visiting was extremely positive.

46 In CEIAG, discussions of career opportunities and paths were prompted by new topics, pupil questions and options. In addition, past pupil studying Engineering spoke to Year 12-14 students about his degree experience, his study year in Singapore, his intention to move into a career in Finance and the importance of being pro-active in seeking opportunities.

Staff development included Google Classroom training, Bar Modelling training, PRSD, marking of GCSE and A level scripts and participation in school trips and visits. The Head of Mathematics attended launch events for new CCEA specifications, participated in the Teaching and Learning NI course, which focuses on effective classroom practice, and, with another teacher, attended KS2/3 transition Numeracy CPD days. These had the focus of improving teaching and learning through improved pupil engagement and increased awareness of previous learning and led to the hosting by Aquinas Mathematics Department of a Bar Modelling Cluster Meeting where attendees included Primary, Secondary, Shared Education, Mathematics, SEN and Science teachers.

The Mathematics department continued to monitor student progress carefully, offering support and opportunity to all. Bench-marking is used as part of the ION and support process in the Mathematics Department, alongside internal Data Tracking results. Following the success of early Foundation entry, 6 Year 11 students will sit a Foundation unit in June and two thirds of Year 12 students who entered for Foundation in January 2017 have already achieved a grade C.

There is opportunity for stretch and challenge through Further Mathematics at GCSE and A Level for very able students, with the opportunity for AS Further Mathematics students to sit an A2 Mathematics unit in Year 13.

On-going support included after-school teacher support and lunch-time mentoring by pupils and was backed up by liaison with the SEN team and with anxious parents. All teachers offered an ‘open door policy’, used frequently by interested or worried students of all years, and during study leave revision sessions were provided for all units.

Highlights of 2016-2017 included the Numeracy Launch, the Bar Modelling Cluster and key Departmental Meetings, all of which had as key focus the sharing of effective teaching strategies. The Mathematics Department has made significant progress in embracing active learning, effective questioning and peer observation this year and this has impacted on and improved the pupil experience, with benefit to pupils already seen in lesson observations.

As a reflective Department which regularly reviews and self-assesses, the Mathematics Department continues to move forward with energy and on-going commitment to self- improvement.

47 MOVING IMAGE ARTS AGM 2016-17

The numbers of students studying Moving Image Arts in 2016/17 are as follows:

Key Stage No. of Students Studying Moving Image Arts Key Stage 3 N/A Key Stage 4 52 Post-16 22

Staffing Structure One teacher has been teaching this subject on a Full-time basis over 5 days per week

Examinations We continued to follow the CCEA specifications at GCSE and A Levels and we’re delighted with our results;

Aquinas Moving Image Arts Results 2017

Level Grade A*-C Level Grade A-B Level Grade A-C GCSE 100% AS 100% A2 100%

Celebrating Excellence

The department celebrated Fionn McKeever’s success after being awarded second place Best GCSE Animation and Ryan Loughran’s second place Best Animated Film at A2 Level in the 2016 CCEA Moving Image Arts showcase. Twelve students from GCSE, AS and A2 films have been short listed and entered into the annual CCEA Moving Image Arts Awards Showcase for 2017. This unique event has is sponsored by City of Derry Crystal as part of the Foyle Film Festival. The award screening took place at the Queens Film Theatre as part of the annual Cinemagic film festival in Belfast. The department was delighted to be informed that five students from A2 Level Moving Image Arts have been awarded unconditional offers for university places and subject bursaries. They will continue their third level education within the area of Moving Image Arts and the creative industries. The key stage 3 Animation club celebrated success having been shortlisted for their entry to JAM media’s ‘Road Safety’ competition, awarded ‘runner up’ for their animated entry

Focus for Department 2016-2017 To promote and develop numeracy within Moving Image Arts. Review numeracy within the departmental schemes of work and adopt an agreed common approach of use of mathematical strategies where appropriate.

The department has fully engaged in TLNI observations with a focus on effective questioning, plenary sessions along with peer/self-assessment. Lesson have been observed by collegues as part of the TCN and teachers from other schools. Feedback focused on the strengths of the lesson and what would make the lesson better.

48 The department can demonstrate extensive use of Google classroom as a paperless classroom tool and VLE to enhance teaching and learning as well as assessment. The department shared best practice with colleagues in using Google Classroom and supported the setting up across a number of subject areas. Mr McClean is working towards the completion of Google Certified Educator Level 1 and has successfully completed Apple Teacher accreditation this academic year.

To support the implementation of the revised A Level specification the department has completed additional training to support the theoretical and practical elements of the course. A new scheme of work has been written based on the resources from the new spec support event and have been reviewed in June 2017, additional resources have been added. At A2 level a new scheme of work has been written to support the new aspects of assessment at this level, they will be reviewed in June 2018. Portfolio clinic feedback from CCEA in March 2017 has supported accurate assessment of the controlled assessment element worth 60% at both GCSE and AS Level. At the GCSE agreement trial in November 2016 work for the department was used by CCEA as an example of ‘best practice’ for live action film making with the Western genre and also top-level coursework across all assessment objectives, this was shared with all teachers across Northern Ireland.

CEIAG The Moving Image department had representatives from the creative industries visited the department. Robert a Special Effects Make-up Artist led a workshop for 30 students in collaboration with the Cinemagic Film Festival. We were delighted to welcome back past pupil Ryan Loughran, Katie O’Rourke and Clare McAuley who each gave presentation on the first year of university at various institutes in the UK.

Mr McClean along with the Year 13 year group attended the annual UCAS convention in March 2017 at the Eikon Centre, Lisburn, here they gathered information on courses with in the creative industries across the UK and Ireland. Year 13 and 14 had earlier attended Ulster University Faculty of Art, Design and the Built Environment’s Information Evening in October 2016 and later these year groups attended the end of year degree shows in June 2017. In March 2017 perspective students to Queens University, Belfast attended the school of Arts, English and Languages information day, here they attended workshops and had a tour of the facilitates and met departmental staff. In June 2017 Queens University invited Subject Heads of Departments to attend seminars and gather information on courses offered within this subject area, Mr McClean was in attendance.

Moving Image Arts students attended various events gaining an insight into careers within Moving Image Arts in their visits to the Coca Cola Cinemagic film festival 2016 and took part in the INTO film festival week of events in November 2016.

Seren McKeever in Year 14, represented Aquinas in London at the Channel4- 4Talent media competition, having won the NI regional group heat earlier in the year. This competitive competition focused on marketing, pitching and presentation of ideas for TV to Channel 4 Executives.

49 Links with Community/Outside Agencies The department continues to develop links with other post primary schools that offer Moving Image Arts at GCSE and A-Level. This link enables participating schools to share best practice and teaching resources. The department continues to be an active member in the MIA teacher Google group. In October 2016 year 12 Moving Image Arts celebrated the work of their peers who produced film work that highlighted Mental Health issues in teenagers. The work was showcased at W5, Belfast, to representative from Department of Communities marking the opening of the 2016 Cinemagic Festival. This film was later showcased to all year group during Anti-Bullying week assemblies.

As part of the Cinemagic Festival a large number of students across all key stages were appointed onto the Cinemagic film jury, here they watched and critiqued short films for the festival and awarded prizes to submissions. During the festival four students volunteered at a number of events across the two festival – supporting Cinemagic staff.

Professional Development Mr McClean was appointed as a subject reviewer of the revised GCSE Arts & Design, accredited and ready for first teaching in September 2017. He also continued the role of Moderator of AS Level Unit 1 Moving Image Arts and Art & Design in the summer series of examinations. Mr McClean attended the GCSE, AS and A2 Level Moving Image Arts agreement trials. In June 2017 Mr McClean attended a week-long training programme at Nerve Belfast focusing on the theoretical elements of A2 Moving Images Arts and Adobe Premier Pro.

50 MUSIC AGM 2016-17

There are currently three teaching staff and 12 part-time peripatetic tutors working in the music department. We offer peripatetic tuition to all students and in June 2017 there were 235 students receiving this tuition, attending an individual half-hour weekly lesson on a rotational basis. The fee, which is £13.50 per half hour lesson, is paid directly to the relevant tutor. The entire KS3 student body at Aquinas, approximately 360 pupils, studies music in one 70 minute timetabled lesson per week. At GCSE this year there were 10 students in our year 12 music class and 10 in our year 11 class. We had 13 in our AS and 16 in our A2 classes respectively, including 11 students from OLASPK and St Malachy’s College, all of which illustrate a healthy interest in music in Aquinas.

We currently follow the CCEA specifications for music at both GCSE and A Level. Our results are excellent and are well above the Northern Ireland average for our subject. This year 100% of our GCSE students achieved A*-B with 100% of our A Level students, once again, achieving grades A*-C. At A2 80% achieved an A/A* which is undoubtedly a remarkable achievement. The NI 3 year average for A* - C is 88.4%. Whilst we are obviously delighted with these results we are continuously striving to both maintain and improve on these. We continue to enter students for external instrumental and vocal exams with both the ABRSM and Trinity Guildhall exam boards and the results are excellent. In April 2017 our ABRSM average result was 119/150, above the National ABRSM average of 117, with many Merits awarded at all levels. We make a large contribution to the extra-curricular life of the school, including our annual Spring Concert to a capacity audience, as well as providing music for the Macmillan Coffee Morning, Open Morning, the Celebration of Achievement, Masses for years 8 and 14, Masses for Grandparents, for Deceased teachers and a Whole School Mass, both at the Good Shepherd Church. Our senior students also take music outside the school and into the local community, including seasonal events in Nazareth Care Village and Glenveagh Special School.

The music department fully supports the School Development Plan. The three permanent members of the department are members of working groups and we endeavour to help everyone as much as we can. We are constantly evaluating our teaching and the learning experiences of our students and we set annual Targets: we will continue to address cross- curricular themes at key stage three; further consolidation of Music Technology into the Year 9 and Year 10 Schemes of Work through the use of Sibelius 6 to compose; we will also look at, and devise, a policy for Gifted and Talented and their provision in Music; we would like all tutors to think carefully about performance programmes for external exams and, in particular, this year we will focus on improving communication through the use of the pupil practice notebook which should be signed each and every week by a parent/guardian. We also encourage our students to be independent learners by reading and listening ‘around’ the subject.

We promote music at third level and careers in music through a designated notice board at the back of N02. Here students can find out about a range of future career paths and options regarding music, including the specialist area of CUKAS. We also have strong links with several external agencies, including CBSM, CBYO, UYO, UYJO, UYC, National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain, National Youth Orchestra of Ireland, MT4Uth, St Peter’s Schola 51 Cantorum, St. Anne’s Cathedral Choir, Fortwilliam Musical Society and the Belvoir Players. We actively encourage our students in their music making both in outside school and Aquinas Students from all year groups were involved in these successes, meaning that we are a wholly-inclusive department.

Notices and information are renewed on a regular basis and are available for perusal all around the Music Department. The Head of Department is an Examiner for Music at both GCSE and GCE levels and is also involved in the SBALC.

Our students are very successful both in and outside school. Last September several students went on to study third level music at The Royal Northern College of Music, the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, The Royal Scottish Conservatoire of Music, Dance and Drama, the Universities of Oxford, Cambridge and Manchester and Queen’s University, Belfast. Many of our current Year 13 and 14 musicians are seriously considering a career in music, and are just beginning the application process to do so, including the Conservatoire route.

Last year was another busy one. This year gets off on a high as all our extra-curricular activities resume and we prepare for this year’s performances and achievements. We are very proud of all of our students and their musical abilities.

52 PHYSICAL EDUCATION AGM 2016-17

The Aquinas Physical Education Department has three full time members of staff.

Physical Education is a compulsory subject in key stages 3 and 4. Physical Education is offered at both at GCSE and A Level.

At GCSE Level the specification followed is CCEA. 31 candidates sat the 2017 exam with 100% achieving A*-C compared to the NI Grammar School Average of 81.7% A*-C (90% A*- B). At A Level Aquinas follows the CCEA specification. Sports science and the Active leisure industry an applied subject. 6 candidates sat AS level attaining 100% A-C. A2 level 6 candidates attained 100% A-C.

Physical Education in Aquinas Grammar makes a unique contribution to the overall education of every student by providing meaningful movement experiences which will challenge the physical and intellectual development of the students through relevant cultural activities. Each student participates in a broad balanced Physical Education programme which, at key stage 3, includes Gymnastics, Games, Swimming and Athletics as the minimum entitlement.

In order to contribute to the curriculum objectives during Key Stages 3 and 4 in Aquinas we want our pupils in Physical Education to:

1. Know (knowledge and understand) 2. Be able to do (skills) 3. Be like (attitudes and dispositions)

The skills, knowledge and understanding developed build on the learning already achieved in key stages 1 and 2. At Key Stage 4 students will progress gradually towards more adult forms of activity and cope with increased physical demands. As they continue to experience success in the full range of movement contexts, they should begin to identify personal preferences and areas where higher levels of performance may be achieved. Continued achievement and progress in physical performance should maintain a positive attitude towards participation. The students should reach a clear understanding of the place of regular exercise in everyday life. In line with the Northern Ireland Curriculum Aquinas Physical Education Department aims to empower pupils to achieve their potential and to make informed and responsible choices and decisions throughout their lives. It is about helping all pupils prepare for life and work:

1. As individuals; 2. As contributors to society; 3. As contributors to the economy and the environment.

Schools are now seen as the most important context for promoting healthy lifestyles in pupils. Health Related Physical Education (HRPE) in Northern Ireland has been shown to positively influence children’s knowledge of and attitudes towards physical activity. Physical Education at Aquinas has a significant role to play in this. The Curriculum at Aquinas 53 emphasises Physical Education’s role in: providing pupils with regular, frequent and appropriate physical activity opportunities, information and guidance; encouraging and empowering pupils to make informed and responsible choices about the role of physical activity in their lives.

At present the extra-curricular profile at Aquinas is vibrant. A wide range of activities is on offer daily. This is the result of the dedication and commitment of the PE department and other members of staff. Our main activities include Cross Country, Basketball, Gaelic Football and Netball, with teams entered annually at all age levels. Alongside this we field teams in a range of other activities. In 2016-7 other extra-curricular activities included Golf, Athletics, Tag Rugby (Ladies), Rugby, (Pollock cup and the secondary schools’ cup) with support from Ulster Rugby coaches, Soccer, Ladies Basketball and Special Olympics Basketball supported by Queen’s Basketball Club, Camogie and Hurling.

From the school curriculum to extra-curricular to club coaches to the extended use of facilities Aquinas provides opportunities and a framework whereby physical activity has a place in school and extends in partnership with the local community.

Highlights of the school year were the event management by the A2 level class Duatholon drawing competitors from the school body.

NI Sports Forum hosted a range of activities for Year 8 girls – Camogie, Soccer, Gaelic, Hockey and Rugby – March.

Malone Rugby club gave coaching in Tag Rugby to year 10 girls and hosted an Inter Schools Tournament with the local post primary schools– December.

Sport – a home for Lifelong Volunteering delivered by Ulster Rugby, Ulster GAA, IFA held in Kingspan Stadium and Aquinas mid-September.

This year the Department worked in partnership with the Bfit team at the Loft situated on the Ravenhill Road using their facilities and expertise to assist in strength and conditioning training skills for A level students developing as personal trainers, the senior Gaelic squad training each Monday morning pre-school time and an afternoon slot for those interested in strength and conditioning.

Netball

From year 9 onwards six teams were entered for the Belfast and Northern leagues and the Northern Ireland plate and cup. Year 10 had a fantastic year, winners of the Belfast league and then the Northern Ireland Cup, second year in succession. The Year 9 team were the 2017 runners up in the Northern Cup. In year 9 four of the players represented Aquinas at the RDS. Five of the year 10 and 11’s squads represented Aquinas at U 15, RDS and won the Northern Ireland title. One player made her debut for Northern Ireland U 17 and was capped at the home European Championships at the Antrim Forum in March.

Athletics 16 competitors represented Aquinas at the Co. Down, Athletics Championship held over two days at the beginning of May at the Mary Peters Track. Three competitors 54 qualified for the Ulster Championships, held on the 20th May at the Antrim Forum. Conor Doherty, Year 11 for the 1500m. He came 3rd in the Co Down Districts. James O’Rourke, Year 12 for the 100m. He came 3rd in the Co Down Districts. Peter Gracey, Year 13 for the 800m. He came 1st in the Co Down Districts.

Cross Country A number of races were entered this season. The St Genevieves race for Years 8-10 starts the running season mid-October. This race helps to prepare competitors for the Co Down Championship. A second race was organised by Campbell College this season. The event, which took place mid-January enabled Aquinas runners to compete against other students whom they would meet in the Championships.

19 runners entered the main event of the season - the Co Down Districts. It took place in Kilbroney Park, Rostrevor. The change in venue made it more challenging and exciting for runners this year. Aquinas was represented in the Mini, Minor, Junior and Intermediate categories. 4 boys qualified for the Ulster Championship. Senan O’Rourke, Year 8 came 13 th in the Mini boys race. Declan Arkins and Fergus McGrady, both Year 9 finished 12th and 15th respectively. James Gracey, Year 11 finished 13th. The Ulster Cross Country Championship took place at Mallusk Playing Fields on the 22nd February.

55 PHYSICS AND DOUBLE SCIENCE AWARD AGM 2016-17

PHYSICS and Double Award Science Pupils study KS3 physics in Year 10, CCEA GCSE and Double Award Physics in year 11 and 12. In years 13 and 14, pupils study CCEA A level physics.

There are 3 subject specialist staff in the Physics department RESULTS FOR 2017 Year group Number studying 10 118 11 Double Award 31 11 GCSE Physics 59 12 Double Award 20 12 GCSE Physics 55 13 AS Physics 36 14 A2 Physics 23

A2 No. A* A B C D E A*& A A*-C A*-E NI Gr Level % % % av % Physics A*-C 23 4 3 9 6 1 0 7 22 23 % 17.4 13.0 39.1 26.1 4.3 0 30.4 95.7 100 80.3

AS level No. A B C D E U A-C A-E Physics % % 35 9 8 7 4 2 5 % 25.7 22.9 20.0 11.4 5.7 14.3 68.6 85.7

GCSE No. A* A B C D E A*&A A*-B A*-C NI Gr Av % Physics A* – B 55 6 23 19 7 0 0 29 48 55 % 10.9 41.8 34.6 12.7 0 0 52.7 87.3 100 82.7

The Double Award Science results are awarded as 2 grades for each pupil. In 2017 Aquinas pupils achieved grades as shown below. Double A* A B C D E A*&A A*-B A*-C NI Gr Av % Award A* – B

56 5 6 22 7 0 0 11 33 40 % 12.5 15.0 55.0 17. 5 0 27.5 82.5 100 72.0

In keeping with the School Development Plan, “Together Towards Improvement” and “Every School a Good School”, the department focussed on 1. Participate in the TLNI training on and implementing strategies to include skilful questioning, plenary sessions, and peer and self-assessments in lessons during term 1. 2. Promote and develop numeracy across the curriculum. Use of maths was identified and included in schemes of work at KS3, GCSE and A level.

GCSE Astronomy was taught as an extra-curricular GCSE for year 11 pupils. The course was taught by Dr McHugh and Mr Faherty in after-school and before school classes and also during a weekend residential at Cultra in October. Nineteen pupils and two staff members completed the course and achieved 86% in grades A* to C with 38% achieving A* and A grades (including 2 members of the teaching staff).

On 19th January, Dr Aisling Keane made a presentation to year 10 pupils on careers in Biomedical sciences. The following week, Professor Patrick Porter and Dr Stuart Christy from UUJ, visited the school to make a presentation to year 10 pupils about careers in Engineering.

57 RELIGIOUS STUDIES AGM 2016-17

Staffing  HOD - Mrs Naoishe Hampsey, Ms Pauline McAnulty, Fr Colin Grant, Ms Kerri McGurk  No. of students KS3: 350  No. of students KS4: 237  No. of students KS5: 25

At Key Stage 3, the Fully Alive programme was followed. Our GCSE students followed the AQA programme of study: – Unit 5: A study of Mark’s Gospel Unit 4: Roman Catholicism: Ethics

GCSE Grade 2017 Grade % AQUINAS 3 N.I. 3 Year Year Average Average

A* 16 A* 14% 86.59 77.6

A 57 A*-A 63%

B 34 A*-B 92%

C 9 A*-C 100%

D A* - D

E A* -E

F A* -F

Total 116

Our A Level students followed the CCEA programme of study:- Unit 3 – Old Testament Prophecy Unit 6 - Ethics The department enjoyed excellent results as outlined below:

A2 Grade 2017 Grade % AQUINAS 3 Year N.I. 3 Year Average Average

A* 2 % A* 22%

A 3 % A*- A 56% 100% 88.7%

B 3 %A*- B 89%

C 1 % A* - C 100%

Total 9

58 Sixth Form Religious Programme

As in previous years, the programme was delivered on a modular, rotational basis. In the delivery of this programme, we have chosen topics which will hopefully enable us to prepare our students morally and spiritually for an increasingly secular world. This programme has been enhanced with the use of guest speakers including Alcoholics Anonymous, Life Works and Carecall.

Departmental Focus

Our focus for 2016 -2017 was to review the GCSE Scheme of Work in light of new changes in the specifications. The department moved to CCEA at GCSE in September 2015 and our outgoing year 12 sat their full GCSE in June 2016. Year 11 students also sat a module worth 50% in June. The department were delighted with the standard of results achieved by our current year 12s and feel this has helped encourage and motivate them to maintain and improve the grades received. A new specification was launched in May 2016 and the department has implemented plans to adjust accordingly. The Chief Examiner from CCEA visited the school to advise and inform teacher planning.

A new A Level specification was launched in September and our current Year 14’s sat 40% of their overall A Level in June. Again, the department were very pleased with the results achieved and are continuing to consolidate and prepare for a new A2 specification and further improve resources and strategies for Year 13.

Alongside this the department consolidated efforts to make effective use of the ipad within the classroom. Quizlet was used predominantly at KS3, with Showbie proving to be a useful tool in KS4 and 5 – especially with A Level students.

Careers advice and guidance was given to our KS4 and 5 students throughout the year. As always, prior to the options afternoon, our GCSE students were advised on how A Level RE can be useful for particular professions, with emphasis on how the skills required in the subject make it attractive for certain career prospects.

The department continued to support the spiritual life of our students with daily Mass, Advent services, Christmas celebrations, Penitential services and other liturgies. The Year 8 Welcome Mass was held in September and in May; a Leavers Mass for Year 14 was celebrated. Years 10, 12 and 14 tutor groups went on retreat and all our students found the experience very positive and worthwhile.

The department hosted one student teacher from St. Mary’s University College during the year.

59 SOCIOLOGY AGM 2016-17

Academic year 2016-2017 was another successful year for the Sociology department.

The subject continues as one of the most popular A Level subjects and the majority of returning students chose to continue their studies through to A2 Level.

Once again the examination results were pleasing at both AS and A2 Level although there was a dip in achievement.

The AS students achieved 82% Grade A-C and within that group 62% achieved A- B grades.

The A2 students achieved 87% Grade A-C and within that group 62% achieved A-B grades.

This year also saw several students decide to study the subject in more depth at degree level. This clearly highlights the enjoyment and value they found in their A-Level studies.

60 SPANISH AGM 2016-17

The Spanish Department is made up of two full-time Spanish specialists and a part-time specialist. The language assistant Ms Paloma Rivas plays a key role in the preparation of A level pupils for the Speaking element of the exam. We also work with our Teaching and Learning assistants from Mexico and Spain as well as colleagues with a Spanish degree to help and support our pupils.

Key Stage 3: 298 Key Stage 4: 117 Key Stage 5: 24

September 2016 commenced with 12 Year 14 students entering A2 level Spanish plus one student from St Joseph’s as part of collaboration, and 12 beginning AS level. It was decided to continue with the CCEA syllabus at A Level.

Results

GCSE (74 Pupils) Aquinas Cumulative % NI Cumulative Average A* 24.3 18.2 A*-A 40.5 39.6 A*-B 66.2 66.1 A*-C 94.6 88.1 A*-D 98.6 97.2

AS Level (12 Pupils) Aquinas% NI Cumulative Average A 6 50 32.8 A-B 4 83.3 67.1 A-C 1 91.6 90.5 A-D 1 100 97.9

A2 Level (12 Pupils) Aquinas % NI Cumulative Average A* 8 7.8 A*-A 58 38 A*-B 83 70.3 A*-C 92 91.3 A*-D 100 98.3

61 The focus of the department was to review self-evaluation procedures and feedback in line with whole school policies. The department also adapted a growth mind set of 1% better each day to instil in our pupils.

Ms P Rivas provides the Department’s ongoing link with QUB Spanish and Portuguese Dept as lectora de conversación also. Her role with Final Year students provides great insight for A level pupils.

CEIAG is promoted throughout the Schemes of Work in each Key Stage as well as through a variety of activities which include visiting guests to the department to raise pupil awareness of the many opportunities open to them through the study of languages.

Staff attended a variety of Professional Development courses throughout the year. These included:

CCEA Examiners for AS Speaking Module 1. CCEA Examiner for GCSE Reading paper. CCEA New A Level Specification training. Interviews for PGCE Modern Languages, QUB. Spanish teachers’ course, Colegio Delibes, Salamanca (2 weeks).

KS3 As part of the European Day of Languages the Spanish Film ‘Sons of Cuba” was shown to the Year 10 students. The Aquinas Spanish Society continued as an opportunity for pupils to practise their Spanish outside of the classroom and enhance their proficiency in preparation for upcoming examinations. The department is hugely indebted to the expertise of the Teaching and Learning Assistants who took twice-weekly after school sessions.

KS4 The seventh cohort of pupils successfully completed the new GCSE with controlled assessment. The department is particularly delighted with their results as they are all above the NI averages. AS/A2 level Year 13 pupils taught Spanish lessons in our feeder Primary Schools as part of European Day of Languages.

The Spanish Dept. piloted the use of Google Classroom as a tool to give pupils access to Teaching and Learning resources outside of school and to allow for independent learning and stretch for most able, with extra support for those requiring it. The Spanish Department wiki http://aquinasgrammarspanish.wikispaces.com/ was continued to allow pupils to access learning resources outside school.

Collaboration

Thanks to our link with St Bernard’s Primary School, we welcomed Ms Olga Redondo from I.E.S. Parque de Monfragüe, Plasencia, Extremadura, Spain. Ms Redondo’s visit was part of an Erasmus funded training and focused on Spanish teaching methodology. We will continue to share best practice as a department to further this connection.

62 The Spanish Department was delighted with the collaboration link with St Joseph’s which resulted in an A grade for their pupil at A2 level.

The Spanish Department is a vibrant, dynamic one which aims to offer our pupils a variety of interesting and challenging learning opportunities. Through the study of language and Hispanic culture, the department strives to equip Aquinas pupils with a learning experience which allows them to develop as effective, responsible and ethical contributors to their local and global community.

63 TECHNOLOGY & DESIGN AGM 2016-17

 Staffing: 3 staff members  No. of students KS3: 360  No. of students KS4: 76  No. of students KS5: 19

Results Analysis 2013/14  CCEA board is studied from GCSE to GCE AS/A2

A2 Results –9 students Aquinas No. % R NI A-C NI Gr school average Grade A* 1 11 - Grade A 5(4A) 55% +27 28.0% Grade A-B 8 (3B) 88 +22.4 65.6% Grade A-C 9 (1C) 100 +5.4 94.6% 94.6% Grade A-D - 100 100% Grade A-E - 100

AS Results – 10 students Aquinas No. % R NI A-C NI Gr school average Grade A 7 70% +38.4 31.6% Grade A-B 10 (3B) 100 +38.9 61.1% Grade A-C - 100 +17.6 94.6% 82.4% Grade A-D - 100 95.3% Grade A-E - 100 99.6%

GCSE–39 students Aquinas No. % R NI A-C NI Gr school average Grade A* 6 15% +6.8 8.2% Grade A*-A 23 (17A) 59% +24.1 34.9% Grade A*-B 35(12B) 90 +16.1 73.9% Grade A*-C 37 (2C) 95 +75 91.2% Grade A*-D 39 (2D) 100 +2.4 97.6% Grade A-E 100 - 99.8 Grade A-G 100 - 100

Focus of T&D department in 2016 -17 The focus of T&D department in 2016 -17 was in line with these targets:-

64 Contribution to School Development Plan. 1. To focus on implementing and evaluating numeracy tasks in KS3 2. To embed good practice from TLNI – assessment and effective questioning. 3. To employ the use of a PIE/PIM & YELLIS results for use in data tracking for target setting. 4. To continue to review AFL in KS3 in relation to the Marking policy. (written feedback every 8-10periods) 5. To continue to focus on improved Literacy skills at KS3 within classroom practice. 6. SDP – focus on all pupils achieving A* - C emphasis effective feedback. 7. SDP – focus on developing tasks for Using Maths 8. SDP - developing tasks for Using Maths 9. Analysis of numbers and continued strategy to maintain uptake of T&D at GCSE & GCE. 10. Continued focus on CEAIG enhancement within department.

 Promotion of ICT, Literacy and Numeracy within the department The areas of ICT, Literacy and numeracy continue to remain an important focus within the Technology & Design department. All year groups are now learning CAD (Computer Aided Drawing) and Year 9 and 10 use the laser cutter CAM (Computer Aided Manufacture) for their practical work.

The department enhanced its guidelines for the common marking of pupils’ work using the agreed mark code and highlighting the common presentation policy. Literacy continues to be an area which we place a high emphasis where the pupils evaluate their work and the work of others through their research. There is a large emphasis on the students making full use of their vocabulary book by identifying Key technological words. We are developing a task for year 10 Numeracy

 Promotion of CEIAG within the department

CEIAG remains an important focus within the Technology & Design department. In line with the targeted CEAIG tasks work related learning vocabulary is used daily in the delivery of lessons as each task is related to the role of a product designer, manufacturer, and engineer in the work place. There is provision to participate in the STEM Bus on a regular basis at various times throughout the year in their pursuit of STEM related activities. The Technology & Design department also works closely with the Careers department to attend STEM related careers talks when available. Our A’ Level graduates have gone on to pursue careers in STEM areas ranging from Engineering, Product Design & teaching.

 Professional Development within department

Staff are encouraged to attend courses as and when the need arises to obtain knowledge of new equipment/computer programmes and all staff completed a H&S course this year in the circular saw in order to update their skills in accordance with Health & Safety requirements. The HOD continues to be an A2/AS Assistant Principal Examiner with CCEA and prepares and presents material for agreement trials. 65 66 Summary of the main highlights of the academic year

In the school year 2016/17 Aquinas Technology & Design Department continued to be successful in their participation in regional competitions. The STEM club met every Tuesday from 3.30 – 4.30pm for the purposes of promoting STEM and encouraging participation in STEM related competitions. This year we were joined by students from St.Mary’s B.Ed Technology & Design class and this proved to be very popular

 KS4 – September 2016 - Forestside Young Product Designer Competition Aquinas product designers’ work was exhibited in Forestside shopping centre for the last week of September 2016. On the last day the students were invited to discuss their work with the judges and Tim Cunningham in Year 14 won the 1st Prize this year for his innovative camping stove.

 KS3 & 4 – September 2016 - F1 remote control racing car competition This is the second year of this competition sponsored by Forestside shopping centre. The team of KS3 & 4 students had to build the remote control car and practice racing it around obstacles before the Grand Prix in Wellington College the Team performed very well and for the second year running came 1st overall, not forgetting to mention Mr Black once again winning the teacher’ race!

 KS3 – September – December 2016 - Minecraft Competition A team of five KS3 students participated in an after school STEM club focussed on designing a new hotel for the City quays project in association with the Harbour Office, Belfast. The students had to focus on designing virtual energy sources to power the Hotel using sustainable energy. They met every week and completed the project to culminate in a fun day where there show cased their design in the Harbour Office.

 KS4 & 5 – December 2016 - Stem Bus Once again we had the STEM bus visit Aquinas this year in December where year 11 and year 12 students completed a module in PIC Programming and in February when the STEM bus was equipped with up to date CNC manufacturing machines and all GCSE & GCE students had the opportunity to convert their Computer Aided Drawings (CAD) to real life models on the various Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines. This completed a major part of their coursework.

 KS5 – December 2016 - Sentinus Team R&D Aquinas has been participating in this scheme for ten years. It provides opportunities for schools and companies to work together on a common theme. Student teams work with companies on research, management, marketing and design over a period of six months. The five students in the 2016.7 team were Abhishek Cherukara, Frances Hasson, Charlie McIlroy, Liam McFall and Mary O’Brien. They were asked to redesign and make a lock safe device for the gas main to aid easy access in an emergency situation. The team visited the Phoenix Gas site in November. They met and interviewed personnel who were currently dealing with the problem. Weekly meetings occurred every Tuesday alongside regular meetings with Mr Andrew Lyle our consultant engineer. The students 67 summarised their findings in a written report and give a verbal presentation of their findings at QUB in April. They all achieved a Gold Crest Award.

The overall vision of the Technology & Design department is to actively promote a positive perception of Technology & Design within its role as a STEM subject. To promote its relevance in many career choices by providing inspirational teaching & learning experiences both inside and outside the classroom that will engage and enthuse the students to further develop their studies in this area.

68 Year 8 AGM 2016-17

Staffing for the year included Year Head, four Tutors and six Teaching and Learning Assistants. There were 119 pupils (73 male and 46 female) in year 8 allocated into four class groups (8J, 8P, 8B and 8F).

As in previous years the early focus for Year Head and Staff was the induction of the Year 8s into Aquinas school life. This was helped by the first day, when the students met their tutors, senior members of staff and prefects from the senior school. The students were given a tour of the school, essential stationary and advice on the early days at the school.

During the first months of Form Period the tutors covered topics to aid the successful introduction into secondary school, such as organisation, acceptable behaviour and expectations. The Year 8 Welcome Mass and Induction for parents took place on in October, as usual this was very well attended and gave parents and tutors an early chance to meet.

During Form Period throughout the year the Tutors covered a number of topics such as Bullying, Healthy Lifestyle and Exam preparation (this included a revision booklet pre November and June exams which offered advice and hints to students on preparing and coping with exams and the facility to record their own revision lists for each subject). The Year group was heavily involved in Fundraising throughout the year for causes both within and outside the school.

Student academic progress was actively tracked using our SiMs network. This was very useful for tutors, enabling them to easily oversee the progress of each student and highlight any concerns early. The Homework Diary was used as an essential form of communication with parents. Identification of Needs took place at the end of term one and again proved a very useful tool in assessing the new intake of students and identifying any early issues. Any students highlighted with concerns were recorded and action was taken in the following term depending on the needs of the student.

The Year 8 group took part in the Young Enterprise Programme “Your School Your Business”, which was an introduction to school life and a means for them to mix friendship groups. The year 8 students also had the opportunity to avail of the “Safety Bus” which was a very informative and enjoyable session provided by Translink. We also had our annual visit from the Gideons who presented each student with their copy of the bible during a special assembly. The school year was rounded off with a Careers Department organised trip to the Titanic Museum.

The year group were set the task at the start of their year to join at least one of the many extra-curricular clubs within the school. The uptake was very pleasing across the year group and activities. We had many successes including the GAA boys winning the Oisin McGrath Cup and also becoming Ulster Champions. In the soccer the boys reached the quarter finals of both the Belfast and NI Cups. In Girls GAA five Y8 girls helped the u14 squad become Ulster Champions also. The girls also excelled at Netball. Musical activities were also widely attended and the students displayed excellent talent which bodes well for the future. The

69 internal exams during December and June demonstrated the excellent academic ability of the students across the curriculum and there was much improvement throughout the year.

The vast majority of the year group settled quickly and gave time and effort throughout the year to school activities and their subjects.

70 Year 9 AGM 2016-17

Staffing for the year included the Year Head, four Tutors and eight Teaching and Learning Assistants. There were 118 students in Year 9 allocated into four class groups (9M, 9J, 9P and 9F). The students’ academic progress and their general welfare were monitored by their Tutors. Students attended weekly tutorial periods to discuss their progress and a Year assembly took place every Tuesday morning with the Fr Grant and Year Head.

The focus for Year 9 in accordance with the Aquinas School Development Plan ensured that the students in the Year Group were central to the delivering of the pastoral programme.

Throughout the year in tutor period and/or during assembly a range of topics were addressed – study skill, anti-bullying, health and personal development, relationships, making decisions and taking risks.

Student progress was mapped using the SIMS tracking system and an Identification of Need Google doc. The analysis of these results enabled the Pastoral Team to ascertain which students would benefit from an individual study plan. Students who had notably achieved were congratulated by the Year Head. Likewise, those who underachieved were supported by either the Year Head and tutors

It should be noted that the homework diary is still vitally important as an essential form of communication with parents. Tutors check the diaries on a weekly basis.

Alongside academic achievement Year 9 embraced all aspects of Aquinas life. The Year group was heavily involved in fundraising and must be commended for their enthusiasm for charity events (especially the Trocaire and Christmas Caring Appeal) and the large amount of money they raised.

The year group was set the task at the start of their year to continue to participate in as many extra-curricular clubs within the school. The uptake was very pleasing across the year group ranging from music, sports, book clubs, Warhammer to name but a few.

9B were involved in a shared education programme with a year 9 class at Wellington College. This has been a trial year and has been very successful at building friendships and development a greater understanding of other cultures and issues in our society today.

The students ended the year with a Careers trip to the CocaCola factory and Aunt Sandras Chocolate factory. This was both fun and informative. We have also enjoyed several House days at the end of the term as reward for their consistent efforts.

All in all, it was a very successful year whereby students excelled and flourished academically, spiritually and personally.

71 Year 10 AGM 2016-17

Staffing for the year included the Year Head, four Tutors and five Teaching and Learning Assistants. There were 116 students in Year 10 allocated into four class groups (10F, 10J, 10M and 10M). The students’ academic progress and their general welfare are monitored by the Tutor. Students attend weekly tutorial periods to discuss their progress and a Year assembly took place every Friday with the Senior Teacher and Year Head.

The focus for Year 10 in accordance with the Aquinas School Development Plan ensured that the students in the Year Group where central to the delivering of the pastoral programme. The academic year started with a focus on Behaviour, Uniform, Manners, Punctuality and Homework. Each student started the year with a reflection on his/her performance in Year 9. Planning for the way forward was discussed and monitored by parents and Tutors. Targets were set to enable progress. Targets were reviewed when each student individually met with his/her Tutor. This may have meant looking at organisation, attendance, acceptable behaviour, expectations and taking an active role in the school community. Throughout the year in Tutor period and/or during assembly a range of topics were discussed – learning, personal hygiene, mental health, study skills, exam preparation, managing influences and making decisions, drugs and alcohol, money matters and bullying. CEAIG continued to be integrated, with one timetabled class per week. Subject choices for GCSE had been a major focus this year. Pupils were given forms to track their Data Tracking 2 results, focus on WWW and EBI. This was to ensure the focus on choosing appropriate subjects for KS4. Careers Guidance, interviews for each student and outside speakers all were availed of by each student and were paramount in the decision making process. Student progress was mapped using the SIMS tracking system and an Identification of Need staff day at the end of the first term. The analysis of these results enabled the Pastoral Team to ascertain which students would benefit from an individualised study plan. Communication with parents is regular and supportive. The analysis of Data Tracking and SIMS Lesson Monitor continued each term to record academic achievement and behavioural issues. This was very useful for Tutors and Year Head, enabling them to easily oversee the progress of each student and allow for early intervention to address any concerns. It should be noted that the Homework Diary is still vitally important at this stage as an essential form of communication with parents. Parents attended the annual parent – teacher meeting and received reports on their child’s progress. External agencies that contributed to the Pastoral Programme in Year 10 included Nexus – On-line sexual exploitation and SHARHP Lisburn YMCA - Alcohol;. This year the students must be commended for their enthusiasm and contribution to extra- curricular activities within the school. Many successes were attained by the year group in music, sports – Basketball (Ulster Champions- Girls), Camogie, Gaelic Football and Netball, IT clubs to name but a few.

To conclude the year all students celebrated the year with an end of term assembly and a social trip to the Dundonald Ice Bowl. This was an enjoyable day to celebrate the end of a great year. It was also a very poignant day as the year group reflected upon their time as students in the Junior School.

72 Year 11 AGM 2016-17

The Year 11 Pastoral Team consisted of five Tutors, five Teaching and Learning Assistants, Year Head and the Link Senior Teacher. There were 120 pupils in the Year group, comprising of five Tutor groups – 11B, 11F, 11J, 11M and 11P.

The focus for the start of the year was on the transition into new groups, as classes had all been split at the end of Key Stage 3. From the onset students were supported by their Tutors to ensure their move into Year 11 was a smooth one.

An Induction Evening was held mid-September for the Year 11 parents and students. The purpose of this evening was to inform both parents and students of the examination process. This encompassed Modules, Controlled Assessments, study and organisation tips and the Pastoral structure and support. It was delivered by the Principal, Senior Teacher, and the Year Head. The tutors followed this with work in Tutor period and target setting.

During Tutor period a number of topics such as Personal Development, Study Skills, Drugs and Alcohol, Bullying, Healthy lifestyles, Emotional and Social development and Exam preparation were covered. Each tutor group devised and delivered an assembly covering a range of topics including alcohol awareness, happiness and study skills. These were all thoroughly prepared and helped to foster relationships within each form group as well as emphasising the importance of the subject matter.

Data Tracking and the SIMS Lesson Monitor were continuously utilised throughout the year to record academic achievement and behavioural issues. This enabled the Pastoral team to oversee the progress of each student thus enabling early intervention to address any concerns. The Homework Diary is also important in this process. It is an essential form of communication with parents. Identification of Needs took place after each set of assessments. Any students highlighted with concerns were recorded and action was taken by the Pastoral team to enable each student to strive to reach his/ her potential.

Outside agencies worked with the school to deliver training to the Pastoral Team on Alcohol and Drugs. In addition to this the Year group attended a presentation on Mental Awareness. In early February the Learn to Learn day gave pupils valuable insight into ICT, Stress and Relaxation, Healthy Brains, Exam Technique and Revision strategies. The pupil feedback on this event was overwhelmingly positive.

Students in the Year group contributed to Aquinas Caring at Christmas and the Trócaire Campaign. The Year 11 Tutor groups were represented on the Students’ Council by their chosen class representatives. Many students were involved in an array of extra-curricular sporting activities and their achievements were highly commendable. They participated in Gaelic Football, Camogie, Netball, Basketball, Hurling, and Tag Rugby. Many pupils achieved personal successes in a variety of sports in their chosen out of school activities and these were shared in Year Group assemblies. Students received international honours in Netball and Table-tennis while the Year Group provided the bulk of the Ulster Championship winning Basketball squad. A number of students received ABRSM Grade certificates and were eager participants in the school choirs and orchestras. Year 11 students had the 73 opportunity to apply for the Ulster Project and many availed of the opportunity, with a small number selected to visit America over the summer months.

May and June was a very busy time with all Year 11 pupils sitting GCSE examinations. In preparation for these exams throughout the year students were able to avail of specialised support in various Departments after school, mentoring from Sixth Form students and the continuous support of the Pastoral team. Additional support in numeracy, literacy and organisation was provided to selected students prior to external modules.

During the final week of Year 11 students participated in Work Related Learning. This proved to be an invaluable experience for students engaging in work placements that may become their chosen career.

74 Year 12 AGM 2016-17

The Year 12 Pastoral Team consisted of five Tutors, seven Teaching and Learning Assistants, Year Head and the Link Senior Teacher. There were 117 pupils in the Year group, comprising of five Tutor groups – 12B, 12F, 12J, 12M and 12P.

Retreats were held at the beginning of Year 12 to spiritually, mentally and emotionally prepare students as they embarked upon the final stages of their GCSEs.

In the first term a module results review was carried out. Individual targets where set with each student consolidating the year 11 results and drawing up personalised strategies to reach the set aspirational targets. These targets were made by each student in discussions with subject teachers, parents and followed up by Tutors, Year Head and Senior Teacher.

Continuous evaluations where carried out by the Pastoral Team from an analysis of the data tracking results to provide support for students. Further support was sought following the Identification of Need at the end of the first term. Through the median of Teaching and Learning Assistants supporting the learning needs, Peer Mentoring, SENCO offering support and guidance, Pastoral Team focusing on individual learning needs – setting targets and time management, 1:1 interviews with either Year Head or Senior Teacher. At the end of October students participated in the ‘Learn to Learn’ day. Sessions with advice on Mental Health, Time Management, Organisation and websites were presented to students. This was an invaluable experience. Students developed the study skills and tips offered on this day in Tutor period. Targets were revisited with their Tutors. In addition to this, students availed of the specialised assistance being offered by subject teachers and the After School Study each day. Year 14 prefects were also on hand to offer advice on how to revise during Tutor period.

Additional themes for throughout the year included fundraising (Christmas Appeal, Aquinas Caring and Trocaire), each Tutor group presented an assembly with a religious, moral theme, bullying (material was available on the Staff Area for Tutors to utilise) and SHARHP (School Health and Alcohol Harm Reduction Project) programme was followed.

CEIAG continued to be a strong feature in Year 12, with one class timetabled per week. A Careers Advisor (DELNI) implemented the Getting Connected programme for all Year 12 students, with individual interviews. Key Decisions Day reinforced career choices and what was required for re-entry. Options Day followed this. Consultation with staff and parents took place to select A level options for the forthcoming year.

The Pastoral Team recognised the increasing needs of our students as examinations grew closer. The pastoral programme supported our students steering them through their external GCSE examinations. Focus was placed on dealing with exam stress, coping strategies, self-awareness, self-respect, on-line safety, and mental health. An excellent talk presented by two Sixth Formers on Mental Health was invaluable. An External agency regarding social media, promoting Safer Internet was also provided.

75 The Year 12 Tutor groups were represented on the Students’ Council by their chosen class representatives. Many students were involved in an array of extra-curricular sporting activities and their achievements were highly commendable. They participated in Gaelic Football, Camogie, Netball, Basketball, Hurling, Duke of Edinburgh and Tag Rugby. Many pupils achieved personal successes in a variety of sports in their chosen out of school activities and these were shared in Year Group assemblies. A number of students received Grade certificates for instruments and voice this year and were eager participants in the school choirs and orchestras. The Year 12 students were also involved in the Florida Exchange, Cinemagic, Soroptimist Public Speaking competition and Open Day.

Year 12 end of year Mass was celebrated on Tuesday 9th May.

76 Year 13 AGM 2016-17

Year 13 consisted of 127 divided into four form classes.

Our students participated fully in the AS-level curriculum and continued to engage in numerous extra-curricular activities. We advertise these opportunities widely and encourage students to participate. A few examples are: The Young Enterprise Scheme, Bar Mock Trials, Sentinus Team R&D, Pope John Paul II, Ski Trip and Aquinas Community links. All students fully participated in the house system earning many points through various in- house activities. These ranged from music to academic to sporting activities. Many of our year 13 students are completing music ABRSM exams. Among the list of achievements are the successes of the school netball, basketball and Gaelic footballers as well as excellent fundraising totals for Trocaire and other charities. This is by no means an exhaustive list and individual subject related activities are listed in the departmental AGM reports for this academic year. Many of the year 13 participated in various outside fundraising activities for Marie Curie and Special Olympics.

Some notable achievements however were: Peter Gracey was selected for the N.Ireland running squad to participate in the mini London Marathon in March 2017, Caoimhe Callaghan was selected to participate in the Northern Ireland U18 ladies football team, Anna Doyle was selected for the Down Minor Gaelic Team as were Joseph Hanrahan and Ronan Costello. Ronan also obtained an All Star. Abhishek Cherukara successfully achieved a STEM scholarship Arkwright award. Annie Hackett, Thomas Lynch, Sean Small successfully completed the Youth in Government Programme and went to the UK Parliament as part of the programme. Tom McAlinden was an All-Ireland finalist in the Linguistic Olympiad. Amongst others, Owen McKavangh, Niamh McNamee, Mary O’Brien, Matthew Sayers are members of the City of Belfast Youth Orchestra who completed a European Tour in the summer of 2017. Matthew is also the only NI representative in the National Youth Orchestra of Ireland. Seam Small and Owen McKavanagh are members of the Schola Cantomn. Many show great commitment by attending St. Anne’s Cathedral choir on a bi-weekly basis.

In December 2016 the school celebrated the Year 13 students’ GCSE achievements with a lovely ceremony involving the parents and students. All students successfully completed one-week work placement in various local companies.

The tutors alongside the year head worked closely with the students and subject teachers to track and review academic progress. Continuous evaluation was carried out by the Pastoral Team. The analysis of the data tracking, winter and mock examination results enabled tutors to provide support for students for whom it was deemed necessary and implement Action Plans. Communication with parents was regular and supportive and positive achievements were congratulated. The Positive Behaviour Policy was followed closely and Tutors also interviewed all students as part of the TACT initiative.

The Pastoral Team recognised the increasing needs of our students as examinations grew closer. The main focus for this academic year was providing a pastoral programme to support our students and successfully steering them through their external examinations. We focused on dealing with exam stress, coping strategies, self-awareness, self-respect, on- 77 line safety, anti-bullying and mental health. We invited guest speakers to address the students on specific topics, including Mental Health. Careful attention was given to the CEAIG programme and this was geared to ensuring pupils made informed AS-level choices. An analysis of the AS-level results is provided by the Principal.

78 Year 14 AGM 2016-17

Staffing for the year included the Year Head, four Tutors and three Teaching and Learning Assistants. There were 107 pupils in year 14, allocated into four tutor groups (14B, 14J, 14M and 14P)

The focus for the year was target setting with each student consolidating their year 13 results and drawing up personalised strategies to reach the set aspirational targets. This focus was further supported by the year 14 Induction Evening presented to parents. The triangle of support between school, pupil, and parent was well endorsed on the evening. A full outline of the year ahead was discussed including the available support mechanisms on offer to the students. The tutors worked continuously with students throughout the year monitoring their progress via Sims, data tracking and 1:1 interviews. In this busy year the tutors placed an all-out effort to assist the students with the final demands of A Level study. Excellent preparation time was allocated during tutor time. The tutors, year head and other members of staff provided a mentoring system to the year 14 and regular contact was made with home. The Pastoral Team recognised the increasing needs of our students as examinations grew closer. The pastoral programme supported our students steering them through their external examinations. We focused on dealing with exam stress, coping strategies, self-awareness, self-respect, and on-line safety, anti-bullying and mental health. Ceaig continued to be a strong feature this year with one weekly class timetabled. The tutors also collaborated well with the Careers Department to ensure all UCAS deadlines were met. Students attended Open Days at both Queens and UUJ and a CAO presentation was also delivered to pupils and parents in September. Key issues were also addressed at the weekly assembly and support from outside agencies such as QUB chaplain and QUB engagement officer, New Driver NI and the electoral office.

Alongside academic achievement, year 14, embraced all aspects of Aquinas life. They have left many footprints through their involvement in the extracurricular activities offered. Musical activities were also widely attended and the students displayed excellent talent especially at the annual spring concert. As seniors they were perfect role models to the junior school and there contribution made was inspirational.

Year 14 must be commended on their excellent fundraising for Trocaire and the coffee morning for mental health. The highlight of the year was the quiz in the Errigal with students, staff, parents and friends of Aquinas raising £1300 on the night.

The school year ended with two successful events. The Leaver’s Dinner, at Malone Lodge, was a well organised and enjoyable experience for the students and staff in attendance. The Leaver’s Mass undoubtedly provided a fitting end to a busy year for all involved. Parents and pupils attended in large numbers and again the event was extremely well organised.

It is sad to say farewell to an excellent set of students but the doors are always open to past pupils at Aquinas. Over the forthcoming years we will no doubt meet many of our students again at past pupil events and look forward to learn about their continued successes.

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