PROSPECTUS Welcome to Bedford Academy
Bedford Academy, part of HEART Academies Trust, is a great place to study. Our innovative spirit inspires what we do and how we do it, providing valuable educational benefits for students, parents and our community. Constantly improving what we do lies at the heart of what makes us different.
We educate, excite and inspire our students with Bedford Academy is a place of learning that a learning experience that you will find nowhere students want to attend and that parents put as else; it is absolutely unique. Our superb facilities first choice for their child. coupled with our dedicated staff enable us to deliver lessons that provide challenge, support and At Bedford Academy we recognise the important are closely attuned to individual needs. We are part that parents and community play in a child’s committed to giving all of our students the best education and we develop an active partnership learning experience possible and to improving to ensure that every child is nurtured to reach their life chances. their full potential in a culture of ambition and respect, where no one gets left behind. We We enable students to see the bigger picture; to ensure our students can think for themselves connect them with their learning and the world and about others, can challenge themselves and around them. We are confident that the vibrant make good judgements, can believe in themselves learning atmosphere we create raises academic and recognise their capacity to realise their attainment, students’ enjoyment of learning and dreams. We know dreams are possible at Bedford their level of skills. Academy.
2 Our Sponsor Our Vision What Makes us Special?
As a charity which works to help people HEART Academies Trust aims to create a family of Bedford Academy is a state funded independent school for students aged 11-18. We in and around Bedford, The Harpur Trust schools who are at the heart of their community use our independence to be innovative and to constantly improve. is proud to sponsor HEART Academies improving life chances for all through challenge Trust. and support. At Bedford Academy we do things differently; The Academy strives to transform educational • Students have a 30-hour week. This means • Our ‘Access’ centre provides a student The Harpur Trust has existed in the town since that over a year they have an extra six weeks centred approach to additional support. It 1566 when Sir William Harpur, and his wife Dame outcomes by providing exciting, new and different opportunities for learning and applied learning. of learning compared with most schools. acts as an Academy within the Academy for Alice, created an endowment to sustain a school students that require more intensive support As a vibrant and successful centre of learning, • We believe in spending extra time on Maths in Bedford. The endowment also made provision at any time. for the marriage of poor maids of the town, for with the highest standards of attendance and and English to ensure the highest standards of deprived children to be nourished and informed behaviour, it aims to bring about a substantial literacy and numeracy. • Our in-house careers team work hard to increase in the educational attainment, ensure students have the right independent and for any residue to be distributed to the poor • Lessons are one hour in duration. We expectations and aspirations of students and the information, advice and guidance to progress of the town. recognise that students build knowledge and whole community. to their next life stage. understanding by building on prior learning. Today, the work of The Harpur Trust is still very This means they need time to revisit/retrieve • We provide a ‘Stage not Age’ approach to much based on this legacy. Their aims are clear As part of the Trust, Bedford Academy focuses on being: knowledge and practise using it. We structure our curriculum where students are able to and simple; they are here to inspire and support lessons carefully to make sure that there are progress through their qualifications at a pace people in the Borough of Bedford to improve a variety of activities, learning is active and appropriate for them rather than according their lives by: meets students’ needs. to their age alone. • providing and promoting education • Students are encouraged to attend before and • offering help and relief to anyone who is sick, DRIVEN after school enrichment activities, meaning in need, hardship or distress that the Academy is open from 7.30am until The passion to get better 4.10pm. • providing recreational facilities with a social and better at something that welfare purpose • Excellent food facilities are available, with a matters. range of tasty and nutritious dishes on offer, Over 1,100 people in Bedford work for The cooked on site by our own staff. Harpur Trust, either directly or in one of their COMMUNITY • Our superb IT facilities provide enough schools, making it the town’s third largest local computers for every student to use. employer. MINDED The will to do what we do in • The Academy believes in promoting reading and the love of books and has an excellent For more information visit www.harpurtrust. the service of something bigger org.uk or call 01234 369500. Independent Learning Centre situated in the than ourselves. atrium right in the hub of the school. Each day, other than assembly days, students have a DEAR (Drop Everything And Read) session ASPIRATIONAL where they have a focused slot developing The commitment to improve reading. life chances.
3 Organisation Timings of the Academy Day Structure Start of School 8.30 The Academy is organised into Learning Villages Day for based upon the following combinations of Students subjects: Tutor 8.30 - 8.50 • Communications (English and world Time languages) • Maths and Computing 8.50 - 10.10 Period 1 First Break 8.50 - 9.10 • Humanities Second • Science and Technology (incorporating 9.20 - 9.40 Business) Break • Arts and Sport Third 9.50 - 10.10 Break Each Year Group is assigned to a Learning Village and this will form their pastoral base for their 10.10 - 11.10 Period 2 time with us from Year 7 to 11. Students move between the Learning Villages for their lessons to 11.10 - 12.10 Period 3 ensure they get the specialist teaching they need.
Each Village has its own designated wing, with 12.10 - 14.10 Lunch DEAR 12.10 - 12.40 the Science and Technology Village in its own Period 4 ‘penthouse style’ accommodation above the DEAR Lunch 12.40 - 13.10 centre of the building. Lunch DEAR 13.10 - 13.40 If students require additional support, our Access Period 4 department provides SEN support, language development, behaviour support, counselling and DEAR Lunch 13.40 - 14.10 alternative curriculum provision. 14.10 - 15.10 Period 5 In the Sixth Form, students remain part of the Learning Village structure for their pastoral End of support needs. As older students, they have a School 15.10 separate Sixth Form area which is used as a social Day for space and for independent learning. Students Enrichment 15.10 - 16.10 Period 6 & 6th form classes
4 Term Dates
The Academy operates a similar term structure to Bedford Borough Council schools. From time to time training days may vary.
TERM DATES 2018/2019 TERM DATES 2019/2020 Autumn Term 2018 Autumn Term 2019 Term Starts Term Starts Tuesday 4th September Tuesday 3rd September Staff Training Days Staff Training Days Monday 3rd September Monday 2nd September Monday 29th October Monday 28th October Wednesday 12th December Wednesday 4th December Half Term Half Term Monday 22nd October - Friday 26th October Monday 21st October - Friday 25th October Term Ends Term Ends Friday 21st December Friday 20th December
Spring Term 2019 Spring Term 2020 Term Starts Term Starts Monday 7th January Monday 6th January Half Term Half Term Monday 11th February - Friday 15th February Monday 10th February - Friday 14th February Term Ends Term Ends Friday 5th April Friday 3rd April
Summer Term 2019 Summer Term 2020 Term Starts Term Starts Tuesday 23rd April Tuesday 21st April Half Term Half Term Monday 27th May - Friday 31st May Monday 25th May - Friday 29th May Term Ends Term Ends Tuesday 23rd July Friday 17th July
5 Teaching and Learning Gifted and Talented
Our philosophy of education means that learning is considered UNLOCKING POTENTIAL to be a partnership between students, staff and parents. We Bedford Academy nurtures the talents of every student. We recognise that have high expectations for both staff and students. some students are especially talented in one area in particular, such as sports or music, and that other students have outstanding academic gifts across a The curriculum at Bedford Academy is designed to be engaging, exciting and wide range of subjects. As part of our personalised learning curriculum, these challenging. We want all our students to be fully prepared for their futures by students take part in the Gifted and Talented programme. The programme providing them with a range of academic opportunities and developing their incorporates a wide range of enrichment activities, a stretching experience in character so that they leave us as well-rounded, employable young people. our classrooms, and close monitoring of each student’s progress, achievement and participation. Our curriculum model puts the core subjects of English, Maths and Science at the heart of what our students study. Getting the foundations right in these “Being part of the Gifted and Talented programme encourages us to reach areas opens up more effective learning across a wide range of subjects. our full potential.”
At Bedford Academy lessons last for 1 hour. Our staff are trained in the Year 11 Student latest teaching and learning approaches so that lessons are vibrant, active and support students’ learning. Our lessons are based on the following principles: CLASSROOM PROVISION At Bedford Academy, we recognise that it is important for Gifted and STUDENT BASED LEARNING Talented students to work at an appropriate pace and in a variety of All lessons are differentiated to ensure that students of all abilities and settings. We instil in our students the skills and strategies that enable them aptitude can fulfil their potential. Students’ prior attainment and potential are to become more independent, creative and self-sufficient searchers of used to prepare lessons which cater for their needs. Learning and lessons knowledge. are structured to ensure that students are placed at the centre of learning. “The Gifted and Talented programme challenges you to try new things, VARIETY OF ACTIVITY mental & physical, learn new skills and it’s a great way for like-minded students to connect.” All lessons contain a variety of learning activities and tasks to ensure Year 11 Student that students are at all times engaged and challenged. Students have the opportunity to transfer and reinforce knowledge and skills using a variety of techniques. ENRICHMENT We offer a regular Gifted and Talented enrichment programme as a ACTIVE LEARNING key component of the provision for Gifted and Talented students. Our enrichment offering involves activities outside of the normal classroom, We aim to develop life-long learners and independent thinkers. Active which enable our students to widen their experience and develop specific learning is central to students’ experience in the classroom. At Bedford skills. Often enrichment is led by our Gifted and Talented students for like- Academy students are encouraged to think, question and reason, to develop minded students. the skills of independence and see the teacher as a facilitator of learning. “The new Gifted and Talented enrichment is great fun and a brilliant way of recognising people’s talents outside of the classroom.” Year 12 Student
6 Exciting Challenging Curriculum
Designed for the future, Bedford Academy students study a broad and balanced KEY STAGE 5: YEARS 12 AND 13 range of subjects. Our curriculum is structured to meet the needs of all our students to ensure all accelerate their progress in learning. We will prepare our students to A Level Subjects BTEC National (Level 3) Subjects meet the challenges of life in our fast changing world. Biology Art and Design KEY STAGE 3: YEARS 7 AND 8 Chemistry Business Computer Science Creative Media Economics Health and Social Care Core Subjects Foundation Subjects English Language & Literature ICT Geography Performing Arts English Art & Design History History Science Mathematics Drama Computer Science Maths Sport Science Food Technology Music Media Studies Ethics & Values Spanish Religious Studies Physics Physical Education Geography Psychology Religious Studies Students will study all the foundation subjects during Years 7 and 8. This will ensure they are able to Sociology make the best possible decision about the Option subjects they wish to choose for their Key Stage 4 curriculum. Our Sixth Form provision is expanding, with new courses being added to our curriculum offer. We are very excited to be able to offer such a wide range of Level 3 courses; students would normally KEY STAGE 4: YEARS 9, 10 AND 11 choose three subjects. In addition to Level 3 courses, students will also have the opportunity to retake GCSEs in English and Mathematics should they wish to improve their grades. Core Subjects Optional Foundation Subjects SUPPORT, ENRICHMENT AND EXTENSION English Art and Design Hospitality and Catering Students’ individual needs are well supported and benefit from a range of interventions, including Mathematics Business Studies Computer Science additional curriculum time for literacy and numeracy lessons. Science Child Development Media Studies Ethics & Values Citizenship Music Students are expected to attend at least one enrichment activity per week. This may be further Physical Education Drama Performing Arts support for their classwork or an experience of trying something new. Students may work towards Food Technology Religious Studies an accredited qualification or it may be purely recreational. Our enrichment programme is very broad Geography Sport and is constantly evolving to provide our students with as many different opportunities as possible. Health and Social Care History Many students successfully complete qualifications in home languages other than English and Spanish are encouraged to do so when they are ready. We also encourage students to complete other qualifications early where appropriate, so that they can continue to challenge themselves with higher Currently, students choose two optional foundation subjects to study in Year 9, completing the course levels of study. at the end of the year. They then choose two further subjects in Year 10 and a final two subjects in Year 11. The structure and offer within the curriculum is under constant review to ensure we offer the most appropriate curriculum for our students.
7 Access Homework and Extended
Our Academy is a happy and welcoming one. Our students Learning thrive in a supportive and safe environment in which everyone has respect for each other. All students require support with Bedford Academy’s approach to extended learning takes their learning at one time or another and in the majority of account of the additional learning hours in the Academy’s cases this support is provided through the pastoral structure. formal teaching week and the enrichment programme. However, some students require additional support to reach their full potential and this is provided through Access. We acknowledge that: • Students who take part in additional study support activities outside of Access provides fully integrated support for students with additional needs, their normal learning get better GCSE results than their peers of equal be those emotional, behavioural, special educational or additional language ability who do not participate. These students score an average of 3.5 needs. grades more on their best GCSE results and they gain one more 9-5 pass (Source: National Youth Agency & University of Strathclyde). This co-ordinated support is provided either in class or through small group or individual programmes. • As students progress through the Academy, they are increasingly expected to learn effectively on their own, managing their own study time by Sixth Our Access staff are highly qualified, experienced and very approachable. Form. They work closely with subject teachers and Heads of Year to review the Homework and Extended Learning at Bedford Academy will: impact interventions are having on individual students. From time to time, • Be given on a flexible schedule as determined by the Teacher for each students also require the support of outside agencies to ensure their needs course studied but attempt to follow an agreed timetable set out at the are met. Our Access staff liaise with the appropriate outside agencies to beginning of each academic year. provide a joined-up service for our students. At Bedford Academy we believe • Be given when extended learning will enhance the learning of students in that all students, with the appropriate support, can be successful. a topic, subject or course. • Not focus on quantity but the quality of the extended learning (homework) task; there are no fixed time limits or duration SEN expectations. Support • Be mindful of students’ commitments to enrichment activities, ability and home circumstances when setting a piece of work. However, work that does not require engaging thought because it is too short or cursory will be avoided. Emotional Behaviour • Be able to be completed in the Independent Learning Centre during Support Support enrichment time. • Consist of a specific, well explained task or project with a fair deadline made clear to students. • Take account of students’ interests and abilities. • Take a variety of forms and may not be written. Language Outside • Be assessed in an appropriate form and feedback be given to the student. Support Agencies • Be formally monitored and reviewed by senior and middle leaders for effectiveness.
8 Enrichment
We believe that it is important for students to make the most of their time at the Academy and we are proud of the varied activities and opportunities available to students during the academic year.
All our students are expected to take part Visiting speakers provide course and tutorial- in at least one session from our enrichment related talks. These often provide awareness for programme per week but with so many to students beyond the expertise of Academy staff choose from, many stay for more! and insights into different approaches to learning. Tutorial time provides activities focused on Enrichment programme activities are based on students’ skills including: sports, arts, science and technology, music and • Literacy languages to name just a few. We have a range of • Careers information, advice and guidance arts based activities including, music and drama clubs. Students have the opportunity to take part • Bullying and pastoral matters in our Academy performances to which parents and the local community are invited. Citizenship based activities encourage student participation in events such as Children in Whole Academy events allow students to take Need and Comic Relief, where fundraising part in activities beyond the classroom, to have develops students’ planning, decision making and fun and enrich students’ experience. Events organisational skills. include themed days, presenting assemblies, sports day, productions and concerts. Students help to organise events for the local community such as a bingo evening and a summer BBQ.
Enriching the lives of our students comes in many forms, not just extra-curricular clubs. Residential, day and short trips encourage students to experience different environments, cultures and to meet new people, giving opportunities to increase their organisational skills, personal initiative and self-confidence.
Some of the opportunities students have been fortunate to attend include going to theme parks, visiting the BBC, London art galleries and theatres, cruising the Thames and going on the London Eye, to name just a few.
9 Careers, Information, Advice Sixth Form
& Guidance We believe that the Sixth Form is the pinnacle of our students’ education and forms the bridge to Bedford Academy has an award winning careers team who are here to adulthood. Bedford Academy Sixth Form provides help build employability skills, develop knowledge of the local, national the right opportunities and continual support to and international labour market, explore career ideas and offer impartial enable our students to progress to University and guidance to students about their next steps. successful future careers.
Bedford Academy not only holds the national Quality in Careers award, it is also currently We recognise leadership skills as a vital tool in succeeding the only school in the area to have met all eight of the Gatsby Benchmarks of good in a modern global community and provide students with careers guidance. We were also awarded a national best practice award in 2016. opportunities to develop these through the senior prefect team. Sixth Formers have opportunities to take on community This means that students at Bedford Academy have access to a comprehensive range projects, charity work and mentoring roles for younger students. of careers education activities and guidance through a combination of tutorial activities, career learning embedded in to the curriculum, assemblies, careers events, external trips Students in the Sixth Form study three Level 3 courses and and individual guidance interviews to support their decision making whilst at school and these may be a mix of A Levels and BTEC qualifications. Students to prepare them well for the future. also follow a core pastoral programme and have access to Sixth Form sport and enrichment activities each week. Recent examples of activities and resources provided for students include: • Year 7 university visit A Sixth Form prospectus is available on the Bedford Academy • Year 8 employer visit website or from the school Reception. • Year 12 visit to What Career Live, Olympia • Employer mentors - career coaches • Career Assistant enrichment • National Careers Week activities • Alumni day • Year 12 work experience • Tutor time careers education programme • Health Care Roadshow • Careers Library and range of online resources • Career insight talks • Employer soap box talks • Support with employability skills • Mock interviews • Bespoke apprenticeship support • National Careers Service live webinars • Year 12 work etiquette event • Challenging stereotypes transition day event • Visits to Oxford, Cambridge and Loughborough Universities • Visit to National Apprenticeship Show, Milton Keynes • Career Fair for Years 9 to 13
For further info on our careers programme, or if your organisation would be interested in contributing to our careers programme, contact Miss Green, Careers & Work Experience 10 Manager on 301500 ext 182, email [email protected] Academy Standard and Expectations
PREPARATION FOR LEARNING Before entering the school building in the morning, students are required to switch off their phones All students are expected to arrive at school fully and put them out of sight. If a student’s phone (or equipped and prepared to learn. To enable this, all headphone set) is seen in school it will be confiscated. students are expected to bring with them: • A pencil case Where a mobile phone is confiscated more than once, • Black pens parents should ensure their child leaves the phone at home. This is the only certain way to avoid further • HB pencils confiscations and sanctions for the student. • Sharpener • Rubber Bedford Academy cannot accept any responsibility for • 15cm Ruler phones or headphones brought into school. This is done at the owner’s risk. The Trustees, Sponsor and staff of Bedford Academy believe that exemplary standards are important in SANCTIONS reflecting our high expectations. These standards and Students collect achievement points for going above expectations are there to ensure that students are and beyond in their lessons and around the Academy. not distracted from their learning. We appreciate your Achievement is celebrated in a number of ways support in instilling and enforcing these standards for throughout the school year. Students who do not all students. follow the rules will receive behaviour points, next day detentions and may be placed in isolation away from LATENESS peers, this includes extended day isolation. The Academy expects all students to arrive punctually and be ready to commence learning at 8.25am For serious breaches of the rules, including persistent each day. Students must arrive to lessons within 5 breaches of the rules, students may be excluded from minutes. Lateness to lessons disrupts the flow of a school on a fixed term or permanent basis. Bedford lesson, the learning of the student and that of other Academy uses a simple tiered warning system that students; punctuality is a life skill and one that is always encourages positive behaviour and prevents students requested in future employer references. If a student from making poor choices which could lead to them arrives late to school or lessons more than twice a being removed from the learning environment. week without a note that is timed, dated and signed by a staff member, they will receive a detention. Students can avoid any sanctions by arriving to school and lessons on time, by wearing the correct uniform Lates after the register closes are classed as absences. and by following the school routines and expectations. Parents and carers can support students by ensuring MOBILE PHONES AND MUSIC DEVICES their child has everything they need and by supporting the school and their teachers. Mobile phones are part of many students’ lives and at Bedford Academy we recognise that many parents/ carers feel their child is safer with the phone on them on the way to and from school.
11 Attendance
At Bedford Academy we believe that for our students to gain the greatest benefits from their education, it is vital that they attend regularly. Our students should be on time, every day the Academy opens unless the reason for absence is absolutely unavoidable. It is very important that families recognise their responsibility to ensure their child attends school regularly and on time. 98% attendance is a realistic and achievable target for all students that allows for the occasional emergency or sickness absence.
You may think that 90% in an exam is great, but for attendance it is not very WHAT TO DO IF THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH YOUR SON/ good at all: DAUGHTER’S ATTENDANCE
90% ½ a day a • Talk calmly to your son/daughter and listen to the explanation. Contact attendance = week missed their tutor or their Head of Year to address the reason for their non- attendance. 90% Four weeks missed • Your son/daughter’s welfare is important to us. We can help you resolve attendance = every year issues and can offer support for you and your child. You are not alone. • Be supportive to your child in the run up to tests and be aware of 90% ½ a school year missed every coursework deadlines. attendance = five years • Help your child catch up with missed work. A missed day should not mean missed work. For every 17 missed days a year = 1 GCSE grade drop in achievement; this could be the difference between a 5 and a 4 grade in Maths or English! ATTENDANCE REWARDS SYSTEM The Academy aims to support and encourage strong attendance by offering PARENT/GUARDIAN RESPONSIBILITY the following incentives and positive reinforcement to students: • Only let your son/daughter stay at home if they are genuinely ill. • If your son/daughter is going to be absent please contact the Academy 100% recognised termly in assemblies by before 9am on 01234 301500 ext. 238 or email attendance@ Attendance = certificate and seasonal prize bedfordacademy.co.uk, to advise us of the reason for absence and when each term you expect them to return to school. • Make medical appointments outside of Academy hours. 100% recognised by reward and invitation to Attendance • Ensure that holidays are taken in Academy holidays only, never in term = end-of-year Reward Trip time. A Fixed Penalty Notice may be issued to parents if students take throughout year holiday during term time. 95 - 100% • Talk to your son/daughter about the Academy and how they feel about recognised through invitation to end- Attendance it. They are more likely to attend and enjoy it if they feel supported and = of-year Reward Trip listened to. throughout year
12 Rewards Student Voice
At Bedford Academy our standards are high. We Student Voice is the set of systems through believe that no goal is beyond possibility for our which young people give their opinions and students and we encourage their aspirations and suggestions on Academy life in an open, honest, achievements by use of rewards. secure yet constructive way.
Our students are proud of their achievements and are At Bedford Academy we believe that all students are motivated by our personal Achievements Points system. entitled to contribute actively in shaping the educational Students are awarded with points for: experience they and their fellow students receive. • 100% attendance Bedford Academy is committed to placing Student Voice • Outstanding classwork or homework at the centre of lesson planning and design of the wider • Outstanding effort curriculum. • Academic achievement • Participation in enrichment • Representing the Academy
At the end of the year students exchange their points for a reward.
END OF TERM CELEBRATION OF REWARDS The end of each term is a highlight for all. Our students are recognised for their achievements in front of their peers during celebration assemblies. Heads of Year, Teachers and Form Tutors nominate students for both academic and pastoral based rewards. Our students thoroughly enjoy these events and are inspired to do their best the following term to secure a reward for themselves.
END OF YEAR CELEBRATION OF REWARDS During the summer term reward trips take place and special awards are made. Students who have achieved the highest standards of attendance, achievement, effort and participation are rewarded and invited to take part in these exciting events.
13 Anti-Bullying Parent Partnership
Bedford Academy encourages students to show respect in their PARENTS MAKE A DIFFERENCE relationships with all members of the Academy’s community. Parents, carers and families are by far the most important influences on children’s lives. We believe that where parents take on a supportive role in The Academy takes a zero-tolerance approach to bullying – this includes all their child’s learning both at home and in partnership with the school their forms of bullying relating to race, religion and culture, homophobic bullying, children do better and achieve more. These benefits can be long-lasting and bullying related to special educational needs and disabilities, sexist and sexual extend to better health, relationships and improved employment. bullying, and the use of cyber technology to bully. PARENT FORUM AND PARENT SUPPORT GROUPS We encourage students to: • Say NO to BULLYING We are developing an active partnership with our parents to ensure that every • Know and understand what bullying means and the consequences of child is nurtured to reach their full potential. Information shared with teachers bullying-type behaviour assists them in adapting their teaching to suit the learning styles of students • Be active not passive – speak out and report incidents and to take account of any particular needs they may have. • Listen to, support and help bullied students • Take personal responsibility FAMILY SUPPORT MANAGER • Take collective responsibility Our Family Support Manager is available throughout the school day to • Develop loyalty to the Academy and students within it. support families with concerns they may have around issues that occur outside of school but may well affect your child at the Academy. They can provide support and information in regards to such matters as housing benefits, employment and parenting.
PARENT GOVERNOR Our Parent Governor sits on the Local Governing Body for the Trust and is a representative parent who holds a unique position of having a parental viewpoint of the Academy. They are available to discuss issues raised by parents and is actively involved in the life of the Academy.
14 Financial Difficulty Procedures
The Academy provides a free education to all students but also provides a number of additional services and activities for which charges will be made. The Academy is committed to the belief that no student should be at a disadvantage if their parents/ carers are in receipt of benefits.
The Academy is able to offer financial assistance make alternative choices and to use the free to those students for whom the Academy receive meal allowance in part payment for their pupil premium or whose parents or guardians are chosen meal. Extras, such as drinks or extra in receipt of one of the following benefits: dessert, above the allowance value will need • Universal Credit (provided you have an annual to be paid for by parents/carers. net earned income of no more than £7,400, • The Academy reserves the right to reclaim as assessed by earnings from up to three of any Academy benefits that are overpaid as a your most recent assessment periods) result of any financial misinformation received. • Income Support • Income-based Jobseekers Allowance UNIFORM AND SPORTS KIT • Income-related Employment and Support Assistance with the provision of uniform will be Allowance provided for those students whose parents are in • Support under Part VI of the Immigration and receipt of free school meals. Asylum Act 1999 • Child Tax Credit (provided you’re not also TRIPS AND VISITS entitled to Working Tax Credit and have an Deposits should, in all cases, be paid for in full annual gross income of no more than £16,190 by the parent/carer. To apply for assistance with (subject to review*) the remaining amount, a letter should be sent to • Working Tax Credit run-on – paid for 4 the Finance Department stating the reasons for weeks after you stop qualifying for Working the application. Reference should be made to the Tax Credit Academy’s Charging and Remissions policy for • Guarantee element of State Pension Credit. further guidance. *This threshold is provided by the DFE and is OTHER ENQUIRIES subject to change. All financial assistance queries should be made in MEAL ALLOWANCE writing to the Finance Department. They will be considered on the grounds of the pupil premium/ • A free meal allowance per day will be benefit criteria outlined above. allocated to eligible students against the cost of a main meal. • The Academy restaurant will provide a main meal option with dessert and drink (water) that does not exceed the daily free meal allowance. However, students will be able to
15 Student Uniform
We are proud of our students and want them to look their best at all times. All students are expected to wear the full Academy uniform. All items are available by order from the online uniform shop. A current pricelist for uniform is available on the online uniform shop www.totalclothingshop.co.uk/bacad
GIRLS BOYS
Provided Academy Backpack Academy Backpack
Order from the UNIFORM: UNIFORM: online shop Navy Blazer with Academy Badge Navy Blazer with Academy Badge Academy Skirt (knee length) OR Charcoal Grey Trousers Charcoal Grey Trousers (religious/medical reasons only) Academy Tie
PE KIT: PE KIT: Academy Track Suit Jogging Bottoms Academy Track Suit Jogging Bottoms Academy Polo Shirt Academy Polo Shirt Academy Shorts Academy Shorts Academy Skort (optional) Academy Socks Academy Socks Academy Football/Rugby Top (optional) Academy Football/Rugby Top (optional) Academy Base layer (optional) Academy Base layer (optional) Academy Fleece (optional) Academy Fleece (optional)
Available at other Plain Black Socks or Tights Black Socks stores Plain Black School Shoes Plain Black School Shoes Proper Winter Coat – Black or Grey (no denim, leather or Proper Winter Coat – Black or Grey (no denim, leather or large logos) large logos) Trainers for PE (Hockey Boots optional) Trainers for PE (Football Boots optional) Open Neck White Blouse White Long Sleeve Shirt
16 Uniform Standards
All students are expected to be in FULL Academy uniform whilst inside the Academy building. Full Academy uniform includes correctly worn ties, tucked in shirts, blazers, skirts at knee length and school shoes. Students must also have the Academy bag with them each day; additional bags may be used to carry PE kit or cooking ingredients if required. Inappropriate items of clothing, jewellery and hair accessories will be confiscated.
In addition: The only exceptions to the uniform policy are as • Hair styles must be in keeping with the follows: smart appearance of our uniform and be of • If the Head of School declares that summer a conventional length and colour (unnatural uniform may be worn, students may remove hair colours and markings cut into the hair blazers. are not appropriate). • Students unable to wear uniform for medical • Excessive make-up and coloured nail varnish, reasons must provide a note of explanation fake nails and eyelashes are not permitted. to their Head of Year; a uniform pass for the • Students may wear a wrist watch and one appropriate period of time will usually be pair of plain silver or gold colour studs in issued in these circumstances. their earlobe only (except for during PE); no jewellery is to be worn in any body piercings; When a student does not arrive to school in additional jewellery or hair ornaments will be Bedford Academy uniform, they will be expected confiscated. to wear loan uniform and return this at the end of the school day. If the uniform is not returned, • Visible tattoos, including henna tattoos, are parents will be invoiced. Behaviour points are not permitted. given every time a loan uniform item is borrowed. • Students are expected to wear plain black school shoes. Trainers, boots or sandals are not permitted. Shoes must not be open-toe, resemble trainers or have any logos. • Hooded tops, caps and bandannas are not appropriate clothing and must not be brought to the Academy site. • Religious headscarves must be plain black or navy. • All clothing must be clearly marked with the student’s name.
17 Academy Catering
Bedford Academy understands the importance of providing students with healthy and nutritious food which enhances levels of concentration and achievement.
Our Executive Chef constantly refreshes the Our menus comply with the standards set by the Our bistro style restaurant provides a modern menus and provides food of the highest quality Food Standards Agency to assist our students and relaxed environment in the main atrium at in our restaurant on a daily basis. The Academy to make healthy choices in their diet. The food the heart of the school where students can enjoy offers free breakfast during break time, of cereal reflects a variety of tastes and cultures and we breakfast, break and lunch and socialise with their and fruit, to every student. We provide nutritious will always provide a vegetarian option. Students friends. Lunch times are staggered to ensure that and substantial snacks to buy at break as well as who wish to bring a packed lunch from home may queues are minimised. Doors open out onto providing appetising and satisfying lunches. do so, eating either in the restaurant or on one of a designated external dining area for al fresco the outside benches. dining during late spring and summer.
MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY Beef Burger with or without Katsu Curry with White Middle Eastern - Lamb MAIN MEAL Cheese Rice Roast Turkey with Stuffing Shawarma Fish & Chips
VEGETARIAN Quorn Burger with or Teppanyaki (noodles) Roast Quorn Fillet Middle Eastern - Chickpea & Mac Cheese OPTION without Cheese Cauliflower Shawarma Side Salad - carrot, sugar VEGETABLES & Corn on the Cob & Wedges snap pea, spring onion, mint, Roast & Mashed Potatoes, Roasted Vegetables, Red Peas & Beans POTATO OPTION coriander & lime juice Broccoli, Carrots & Peas Cabbage & Cous Cous Lemon Sponge with Vanilla Meringues & Iced Dough- DESSERT Chocolate Caramel Tart Cherry Cookie & Custard Strawberry & Cream Muffin Sauce nuts PASTA SAUCE BBQ Pulled Pork Cajun Chicken Beef Bolognese Chicken Italiano Tomato SALAD BAR Quiche Chicken Skewers Sliced Ham Tomato & Mozzarella Salad
DEEP PAN PIZZA Sweet Chilli Chicken Pepperoni BBQ Pulled Pork Meat Feast Selection of Hot Baguettes/ OF THE DAY Paninis GRAB & GO Pizza & Pasta, Jacket Potato with Choice of Topping, Sandwiches, Baguettes and Salads
OTHER Yoghurts, Fruit Bags, Fresh Fruit, Crudites, Cheese & Biscuits, Sponge, Flapjack, Doughnuts & Traybakes AVAILABLE ITEMS
FREE SCHOOL MEALS • Support under Part VI of the Immigration and If you feel you may be eligible for FSM, you can Asylum Act 1999 contact Bedford Borough Council Education Free School Meals (FSM) can be claimed by those Welfare Service and request an application students whose parents are in receipt of: • Child Tax Credit (provided you’re not also entitled to Working Tax Credit and have an form to be sent to you or apply online via • Universal Credit (provided you have an annual annual gross income of no more than £16,190 www.bedford.gov.uk. net earned income of no more than £7,400, as (subject to review*) assessed by earnings from up to three of your The Academy operates a biometric cashless • Working Tax Credit run-on – paid for 4 weeks most recent assessment periods) system for catering. Your child will have an account after you stop qualifying for Working Tax which can be charged via cash, cheque or online • Income Support Credit • Income-based Jobseekers Allowance via ParentPay. If you require further information • Guarantee element of State Pension Credit. on cashless catering please contact the Finance • Income-related Employment and Support 18 *This threshold is provided by the DFE and is Department at the Academy. Allowance subject to change. Student Admissions Contacts
Bedford Academy will consider all applications We welcome enquiries about the Academy, for places. Admissions into the Academy are please do not hesitate to contact us: organised in conjunction with Bedford Borough Council. Executive Principal and CEO Mrs Claire Smith of HEART Academies Trust Each year the Council distributes information packs via local Primary and Middle Schools on the admissions Head of School Mr Chris Deller process for Secondary Schools. Places need to be applied for and a completed application form needs to be returned KEY STAGE 3 to the Council by 31st October. Places will then be Key Stage 3 Co-ordinator Mr Michael Craddock allocated and parents will be informed the following spring. Head of Year 7 Ms Abby Jordan We anticipate reaching our full admission number each year Head of Year 8 Mr Andrew Burns therefore you are advised to put Bedford Academy as your first choice if you wish to secure a place for your child. KEY STAGE 4 ENTRY IN TO OTHER YEARS Key Stage 4 Co-ordinator Mrs Lauren Turner Head of Year 9 Ms Carly Tarrant Contact Bedford Borough Council Admissions Service Head of Year 10 Mrs Charlene Camfield for an application form. All applications will be considered Head of Year 11 Mr Stuart Hoare and if the year group applied for has a place available the Academy may admit the child. KEY STAGE 5
Bedford Borough Council Key Stage 5 Co-ordinator Mrs Lucy Harrop School Admissions Service Head of Years 12 and 13 Mr Jack Green T: 01234 718120 E: [email protected] Director of Access / SENCO Mrs Emma McCrossan
Policies
If you wish to view any Academy policies please follow the link to the policies section on the Bedford Academy website: http://www. bedfordacademy.co.uk/policies/47.html
19 What Our What Our Students Parents Have To Say Have To Say
“My lessons are varied. I give presentations, “The feedback I get from my child suggests that she get involved in group work, and use the video is appreciated and listened to. She highly respects equipment. This all happens in one lesson!” her teachers and the help given.” Year 11 Student “My child is very happy at school. This leads us to “My favourite lessons are the ones including believe that there is a very nurturing atmosphere, animation, trailers, and the debate lessons.” which allows the children to feel comfortable.” Year 10 Student “Setting expectations has brought more focus to Sanjay’s development and studies.” “My lessons go really quickly; sometimes I’m surprised when the teacher says we only have 5 “My child had no self-confidence and this school has minutes left.” helped him and the family do that. Thank you!” Year 9 Student “The Academy encourages attendance and enrichment activities which are main factors in achieving high standards of progress.”
“Thank you for helping Daniel settle in and make a fantastic start at this school. The staff are so dedicated and hardworking and this really shows.”
Bedford Academy Mile Road Bedford MK42 9TR
T: 01234 301500 F: 01234 301501 Bedford E: [email protected] Academy www.bedfordacademy.co.uk
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