The Plymstock School Uniform: Blazer Navy Blue with School Badge

Welcome to Plymstock School

Information to be completed and returned to the school office prior to the start of the school term

 Plymstock School Data Pack includes:

Admission Form

Home School Agreement

Photo Consent

Consent for Biometric Registration

Parent and Student Code of Conduct for ICT

Individual Healthcare Plan

 A copy of your child’s full birth certificate

Additional forms to be completed

 Administration of Medicines in School

 School Fund Form

A colour version of this document and copies of the forms above are available on the school website Contents

Term dates for 2020 - 2021 and Timing of the School Day 1 Plymstock School Uniform/PE Kit 1-2 School Equipment List 3 Ready To Learn 4 Art, Craft & Design 5 Computing & ICT 5 Design & Technology 6 Drama 6 English 7 Humanities 8 Mathematics 8 Modern Foreign Languages 9 Music 9 Physical Education 10 Science 11 Social Sciences 11 Show My Homework & MYEd App 12 After School & Lunchtime Clubs and Instrumental Lessons 13 Library & Resource Centre 14 The Galley 15 Annual Sponsored Walk 16 MKC Heroes 17 Lost Property 18 First Aid and the Administration of Medicines 18 School Fund 18 Plymstock School Governing Body 18 ParentPay - An Introduction to Our Online Payment Service 19 Applying for Free School Meals 20 Home School Agreement 21 Student Code of Conduct for ICT 22 Holidays in Term Time 23 WeST Privacy Notice 24-25 School Site Map 26-27

Term Dates and Timing of the School Day

Term Dates 2020 - 2021 Timing of the School Day Subject to change Timings subject to change during examination periods Term 1 7 September 2020 - 22 October 2020 Registration/Assembly 08.45 – 09.00 Term 2 2 November 2020 - 18 December 2020 Period 1 09.00 – 10.00 Term 3 5 January 2021 - 12 February 2021 Period 2 10.00 – 11.00 Term 4 23 February 2021 - 1 April 2021 BREAK 11.00 – 11.30 Term 5 19 April 2021 - 28 May 2021 Period 3 11.30 – 12.30 Term 6 7 June 2021 - 23 July 2021 Period 4 12.30 – 13.30 At the time of printing the above dates are accurate. You will be informed of any changes as soon as we LUNCH 13.30 – 14.10 have them. Period 5 14.10 – 15.10 Plymstock School Uniform

Why Uniform:  It is suitable clothing for the activities in school  Nobody is singled out because they can’t afford the latest fashions  You can be easily identified as a member of Plymstock School  Your uniform shows that you are part of the school  Most jobs have a uniform/dress code that you will have to follow

The Plymstock School Uniform: Blazer Navy blue with school badge. Shirts/Blouses Plain white only, not tailored/fitted. Jumper Navy blue v neck jumper with school logo (not compulsory). Skirts Plain dark grey NOT BLACK knee length school skirt. Lycra or tight fitting skirts should not be worn. Students who receive two skirt stickers will be required to wear trousers for the remainder of the school year. Trousers Plain dark grey NOT BLACK tailored school or suit style trousers. They should not be tapered (getting thinner) or flared (widening) towards the ankle, skinny or fitted. They must NOT be casual jeans, cottons, leggings or jeggings. Shorts Can be worn in the Summer Term ONLY. This applies to all students and is not gender-specific or compulsory. As a clarification of what would be acceptable please follow this link: https://schooluniform247.co.uk/Sturdy-Fit-School-Shorts-4-16-yrs Please note - we are not endorsing the company in any way, it is purely referred to for illustrative purposes. Shorts must be plain dark grey, tailored formal school shorts (the same material as school trousers) and no shorter than 2.5cm above the knee. The following is NOT permitted: Skin tight/skinny fit, cargo, sportswear, PE, jean, cord, lycra or jersey shorts. Socks Plain dark grey, black or navy only. No white socks. Tights Plain black, navy or natural colour only. No long socks instead of tights. Ties Clip-on school tie. No modifications are permitted (i.e. if stripes have been pulled out or coloured in the tie must be replaced). Shoes Plain black wholly leather/leather-like school shoes only. Trainers, canvas shoes, flip-flops, sandals, “dolly” shoes or shoes with coloured borders/canvas panels are not allowed. Coats Plain navy or black only. Coloured/patterned/leather/denim coats, hoodies, cardigans or non-school jumpers are not permitted. No grey coats. Scarves Plain navy blue or black only. No grey or plaid scarves.

Belts Plain navy blue or black only. Studded/flowery belts are not permitted Hair No extreme fashion e.g. unnatural colours, partially or fully shaved heads, nothing less than a grade 2. Nails & Hands Nail varnish/shellac/extensions of any kind are not permitted. Henna tattoos are not permitted. Make up Make up is not allowed in Years 7 to 9. Students in Years 10 and 11 may wear light natural makeup. Students who wear excessive makeup will be required to remove it. Piercings The ONLY earrings permitted are a pair of plain studs or sleepers worn in the lower earlobe. Ear stretchers, spikes, transparent studs or plugs are not permitted under any circumstances, including if the piercing has been done recently and has not healed. No piercings are allowed in other parts of the body, e.g. the eyebrow, nose, upper/middle ear or tongue, ear stretchers. Failure to remove a non-regulation piercing will result in sanctions. The excuse that it is a new piercing and cannot be removed is not acceptable. If your child does have a non-regulation piercing it must be healed and removed by the beginning of the school term. Jewellery and Rings: Must NOT be worn. General jewellery and rings must not be worn. Watches are permitted but the school accepts no responsibility in the event of loss or damage. Sports and PE Kit Boys Compulsory APTUS Rugby Shirt APTUS Rugby Short Thermal Baselayer Orion Socks Appropriate trainers (not fashion shoes) Optional APTUS Training Pants

Girls Compulsory Orion Ladies Polo Orion Hoodie Orion Leggings or APTUS Training Pants Orion Socks Appropriate trainers (not fashion shoes) Optional Shorts

**All jewellery must be removed for PE. Students who are planning on having their ears pierced should do this at the start of the summer holidays to ensure they have sufficient time to heal.

No note policy Departmental policy acknowledges that a note from home to be excused from Physical Education is adequate. If your child cannot take part in the physical aspect of the lesson for any reason it is important that they still bring appropriate PE clothing as they will be participating at some level such as coaching, officiating or analysing and evaluating performance. In exceptional circumstances where the physical challenge of changing may present difficulties please let your child’s PE teacher know by letter with an indication of how long this situation is likely to last.

Gum shields are strongly advised for hockey and rugby and shin pads are compulsory for football and strongly advised for hockey

PLEASE REMEMBER TO NAME ALL ITEMS OF SCHOOL UNIFORM 2

School Equipment List

2 black pens

1 green pen (for making corrections to your work)

2 HB pencils

Pencil sharpener

Ruler

Eraser

Glue Stick

Scientific calculator

Colouring pencils

Pair of compasses

Protractor

Reading Book

Full PE kit (on timetabled PE days)

Also useful:

English dictionary

French/English or German/English dictionary (depending on Year 8 study)

based in a strong contextual approach, ensuring that students Art, Craft & Design are exposed to as wide a range of inspiration as possible, from aboriginal or Native American art through to cutting edge contemporary practice, such as the forthcoming BAS9 exhibition. We regularly visit London and St Ives with groups of students to enrich and facilitate this element of our curriculum.

We use a sketchbook based approach to developing work, and

student sketchbooks are integral to curriculum delivery throughout the course. The Department has two full time and two part time specialist art teachers, and one technician. Our skills are spread throughout course delivery, with groups in Y7, 8 and 9 experiencing a mix of teachers and approaches across the three years. At GCSE groups retain their teacher for the two year course, whilst at A level the Art and the Photography

students are taught by a mix of teaching staff, again to reinforce diversity of expertise and practice. Recent successes include; our Creative Futures events, working with professionals from across the creative industry to introduce students to the incredible range of careers open to them; commended and prize winning work in the annual city Rotary Art Show; attending workshops in 3-D printing and design at Plymouth College of Art; and contributing artwork to

the Plymouth Hope Festival. The Art Department is an exciting, progressive part of In short we are a happy and thriving part of a really excellent Plymstock School. We offer a broad and engaging curriculum school, where Art is celebrated as an important part of the including printmaking, photography, ceramics and 3-D, as well curriculum, results are strong year on year, and where Art as traditional painting and drawing work. All our teaching is lessons are creative, engaging, challenging and relevant.

Computing & ICT such as:  Communicating information through printed documents, Our Computing and ICT Department has a wide range of digital presentations and websites and apps. digital resources available for all pupils to access. There are  How to use programming languages to create solutions to three fully equipped computer suites with modern PCs and up- problems to-date business standard software.  How digital technologies such as networks, digital images At present, the Computing and ICT Department consists of and mobile communication work and how they can affect four specialist teachers with many years of secondary how we live and work. experience between them.  Creating graphic images, animations and computer games. The aims of the ICT department are to: Key Stage 4  Develop the students Computing and ICT capability - in In KS4 we offer two courses: essence the ability to find, process, present and communicate information.  Creative iMedia - This is a course that is equivalent to a  Develop students understanding of digital technologies and GCSE and will provide students with the opportunity to how they work, including the use of cloud computing. learn how we can use software to create digital products  Encourage students to reflect on their use of digital for a range of purposes. You will learn about Digital technologies and identify how they could use them more Graphics, Web Design and Interactive Presentations as well effectively in the future. as the methods used to effectively plan their creation.  Enable students to see how digital technologies and tools  GCSE 9-1 Computer Science – This course allows students are used in everyday life and identify the benefits and to explore how computers work, how we can program limitations these can have. them and how we can harness their power to solve  Enable students to use computers and computer networks, problems. including the Internet, safely, effectively and efficiently.  To prepare students for public examinations in Computer Key Stage 5 Science and ICT. Both ICT and Computer Science can be studied at Key Stage 5. Key Stage 3 During Key stage 3 students will be provided with one hour of discreet Computing & ICT per week. This covers skills in areas 5

the department by many teaching assistants. All of the Design & Technology classrooms and workshops are well equipped and spacious.

The Design and Technology department comprises three multi- The Design and Technology department is committed to media workshops, two food rooms and a dedicated computer providing excellent teaching and learning to ensure that all suite. All of the rooms are well resourced and equipped to students achieve their potential at all levels. We offer a broad teach Design & Technology in the 21st century. We have a range of subject specialisms which include Food, Preparation & CNC lathe and milling machine, 2 laser cutters, sublimation Nutrition and Design & Technology GCSEs, as well as technical printing equipment and a new 3D printer. awards in Construction & The Built Environment and Hospitality & Catering. Alongside the main focus areas, At Key Stage 4 we offer GCSE Food, Preparation and students are taught to appreciate moral, cultural, economic Nutrition, GCSE Design & Technology, and technical awards in and environmental issues. Construction & The Built Environment and Hospitality & Catering. The GCSEs are assessed by non examined The department assessments and an external examination that students sit at comprises of two full the end of the second year of study. The Technical awards are time and one part time very practical courses, focusing on vocational skills and subject specialist knowledge. Assessment is through practical tasks and teachers supported by assignments at various times over the two years. The students two technicians. This will also sit a written exam. ensures that students get a variety of The department is a creative and enthusiastic environment teaching styles and where students are supported and encouraged to achieve their approaches as well as full potential. We believe in a hands-on approach and that subject specialists. All students should learn through doing. Students will learn an staff teach Key Stage 3, important array of life skills, as well as have fun in the with Key Stage 4 being classroom. taught by experienced, Many of our students go on to study design-based courses at subject specific staff for higher levels. Many of our students also pursue careers, the full 2 years of the training or apprenticeships in catering, design, engineering or courses. Students are the building trades. also well supported in

At Key Stage 4 students are taught 5 lessons of Drama every Drama fortnight. During this time, pupils will participate in a range of devised and scripted performances. Throughout the GCSE The Drama department is a lively and energetic place, with Drama course students can develop their skills in many opThe Drama department is a lively and energetic place, with different areas; from acting from scripts to devising work for a opportunities to develop skills in many areas of performance. primary school. We also run many trips to local theatres to We work hard to ensure that all pupils have the freedom to give students the opportunity to experience live professional express their creative talents in an environment where they feel performances on a regular basis. safe, included, and respected. Our curriculum has been Students wishing to take Drama in Key Stage 5 can opt to designed to develop key performance skills through a variety of choose our A Level Drama and Theatre Studies course. Here topics which link to other subject areas such as Citizenship, students will study practitioners such as Brecht, Berkoff, and English, and PSHEE. Stanislavski, as well as contemporary performance styles; most The department comprises of three specialist Drama teachers notably the work of Frantic Assembly and Propeller. From supported by two non-specialist teachers, all highly these experiences, students will create their own performances experienced in performance. This ensures that students get a based on the skills and techniques they have learnt. During variety of teaching styles and approaches as well as subject this time students will also experience a variety of theatrical specialists. All staff in the department teach drama at Key styles; from Physical theatre to Expressionism. We continue to Stage 3, and students at Key Stage 4 are taught by one specific make frequent theatre visits in Key Stage 5, and are constantly teacher throughout their 2 year course. seeking opportunities to work with local theatre groups such as The Drama department are delighted to offer our students a the Theatre Royal's TR2. state of the art drama studio to rehearse and perform in. The The department also puts on an annual production, open to all studio, which can be divided into two individual rehearsal students. Our productions have received much praise for the spaces, is fully equipped with the latest lighting and sound standard of the performances, the design of the sets, and the equipment. Pupils at Key Stage 4 and 5 have the opportunity professionalism of the performers. Recently our productions of to experiment with the lighting and sound equipment to suit 'School of Rock', ‘Annie’ and ‘Sister Act’ have left audiences their performance needs. amazed by the level of talent and skill demonstrated by the All students are taught regular Drama lessons in Years 7, 8, students at Plymstock School. and 9, aimed to develop confidence and performance ability through a range of topics chosen to make pupils aware of the world around them. 6

English authors. Once again this year, a number of students also participated in judging the nominations for the library’s in- house children's book award known as 'The Hogwards'. The Year 7 tutor group 'Reading Challenge' has been extremely successful, alongside our Accelerated Reader Scheme, in encouraging more students to read avidly. Additionally, students in Years 7, 8 and 9 (in Year 9 the reading takes place in EBacc subjects only) have the opportunity to read for 30 minutes each day within the school day. This initiative has been very successful in developing reading habits and enables us to monitor closely what students are reading to ensure challenge is in place. In partnership with the school's librarian, we have worked How will Year 7 students be assessed? hard to provide students with the opportunity to read an excellent range of literature and to share their reading Each half-term students are assessed for reading, writing or experiences with other students and adults. speaking and listening using the Plymstock Pathways. Assessment is based on a major task set by the student's What do Year 7 students study? teacher. During Years 7, 8 and 9 these tasks may involve: All students follow a skills’ based course that prepares them narrative writing, poetry analysis, speeches, essays, leaflets, for the demands of GCSE English Language and GCSE playscripts and presentations, as well as timed assessments. English Literature. In each year, students have the What enrichment activities are available to Year 7? opportunity to study poetry, non-fiction, media, drama (including Shakespeare) and prose texts. Students use texts We hope to encourage all students to be aware of the links as models for their own writing and speaking in these between what they study in lessons and the wider world. different genres, as well as analysing texts through essay- The English team at Plymstock runs various activities writing and reading tests. The department works closely in throughout the school year to foster students' enjoyment of collaboration with the school's librarian in developing the subject such as: book groups, a week long ‘Reading students' literacy skills and their love of reading. Every Year Festival’ and theatre visits. This year, we are taking nearly 7 class has the opportunity to use the library to develop 400 Year 11 students to Plymouth’s Theatre Royal to see reading and research skills. J.B. Priestley’s ‘An Inspector Calls’, A Level students will be watching Agatha Christie’s ‘The Mousetrap’ and Year 7 are The English Department at Plymstock School is comprised excited about Louis Sachar’s ‘Holes’. We also reward a of a team of 14 highly experienced and dedicated range of students for their progress with reading by taking specialists committed to innovative and challenging them to the Warner Bros. Studio the see ‘The Making of teaching that is student-centred. We aim to build Harry Potter’. We like to encourage our students to extremely positive relationships with our students and experience 'English' outside of the classroom and our recognise that every student is entitled to our highest intention is to create a learning environment based on expectations and support to become a learner for life. We enjoyment; the students attend enrichment activities strive to develop a passion for learning in every student we through choice and interest. We also hold annual teach. celebrations of World Book Day and National Poetry Day to Ms Burgess, Head of English foster an interest in literature. We are passionate about developing students' reading skills and encouraging reading for pleasure; we know that good reading skills significantly improve students' achievement across all subjects. We have been lucky to have a number of visiting authors to the school who have enthused students such as: Cathy Hopkins, Tim Bowler, Richelle Mead, Joe Craig, Alex Scarrow, Chris Bradford, Suzanne Le Fleur, Dan Freedman, Marcus Alexander, Marcus Sedgwick and Andy McNab. Holly Smale, author of “Geek Girl”, was one of the highlights of our annual 'Reading Festival' – a week of celebrating literature and promoting a love of reading across the school. Many students eagerly participate in writers’ workshops and discussions with the

utilised both within the subject and as key life skills. Once Humanities students have gained the necessary attributes to become historians, we will examine time periods such as Medieval Geography requires students to have a Britain, the Industrial and the Imperial age, and the Twentieth lively and enquiring mind, an interest in Century (including both World Wars). Additionally, students the environment and current affairs, a will examine a variety of themes that were important during willingness to challenge your own ideas these moments in History, such as religious influence, power in and an ability to communicate your ideas government, and democracy versus dictatorship. The effectively. Our commitment is to deliver knowledge that students will gain in KS3 History will create Geography in an interesting and relevant both a foundation for further education within the subject and way to all our students. We regularly review and update our as a foundation of key personal skills and knowledge about curriculum to incorporate recent world issues. Our how Britain has become what it is today. expectations are high. We expect students to be self- motivated and driven to achieve their full potential. The Ethics, Philosophy and Culture course actively Students will investigate a wide range of people, places and promotes the value of truth, justice, respect for all, and care of environments at different scales around the world. In doing the environment. EPiC also recognises the changing nature of this students will identify questions, collect and analyse written society, including changes in religious practice and expression and statistical evidence, and develop their own opinions. and the influence of religion in the local, national and global Through this Geographical enquiry and skills are developed. community. The course followed at KS3 reflects a Students work inside and outside the classroom - in the school philosophical approach and applies the concepts of religious grounds, in Plymstock, in the library, in their local area. They belief, practice and understanding to life and making ethical write, draw, sketch maps, graphs and diagrams. They describe choices. We believe that this modern philosophical and ethical what they see around them. approach is an exciting way to engage with our contemporary world. Some of the topics that we cover at the beginning of The History Department at Plymstock School is a thriving, stage KS3 (Year 7) include: good and evil, world religions, creative and ambitious environment where students are spirituality, humanity, and the relationship between religion supported and encouraged to achieve their full potential. First and art. In later years, once students have developed a more and foremost, we continually challenge ourselves and our mature sense of their own beliefs and attitudes towards students to be effective learners. Consequently, we thrive in certain concepts, we assess key societal issues such as an environment that encourages respect, tolerance, creativity relationships (both sexual and platonic), morality, suffering, and aspiration. Students begin in Year 7 by acquiring key and the impact of modern media on relationships. historical skills such as interpretation and analysis, which are

assessment. In Years 10 and 11 setting is based on their Key Mathematics Stage 2 and 3 attainment levels and target grades that are based on prior data. Student progress is tracked internally The Mathematics Department is one of the largest in the throughout their careers at Plymstock. School, housed on the ground floor of a purpose-built block. We have 11 teaching rooms, all of which are equipped with a At present GCSE students follow the EDEXCEL GCSE projector, an ICT suite, almost exclusively for our own use, and specifications either studying the higher or foundation courses. a staff work room. We employ 12 full time teachers and 2 In Years 10 and 11 there are 12 classes which means that class part-time. sizes can be reduced at this important time in the students' education. All students are entered for GCSE Mathematics. The Mathematics Department is committed to providing excellent teaching and endeavours to ensure that all students At Key Stage 5 students follow the AQA linear specifications achieve their potential in Mathematics at all levels. and can study Mathematics and Further Mathematics with the opportunity to study modules in Pure Mathematics, Statistics, Students are entered for Edexcel GCSE and AQA A Level Mechanics and Decision Mathematics. examinations. We also run the Core Maths Level 3 qualification for students wishing to continue with their The Mathematics curriculum is delivered using a variety of mathematical studies after GCSE. Our GCSE grades 4+ was teaching methods, all of which have proven, evidence-based 73% for mathematics, and at Key Stage 5 we achieved 100% research that have been shown to improve outcomes for A* to C in A Level Mathematics, with 100% of the A Level students. Further Mathematics students achieving grades A*-E in 2019. Students in Years 7 to 11 currently receive 8 hours of lessons over a two-week timetable. Students studying A Level Mathematics receive 10 hours of lessons over a two-week timetable. In all years students are taught in sets according to their pathways and Key Stage 4 target grades. Year 7 setting is based on Key Stage 2 attainment in the SAT examinations and initial assessments. Year 8 and 9 setting is based on Key Stage 2 scores, Mathematics Department test scores and teacher

Modern Foreign Languages deliver Languages in primary school and also to assist in the running of our trips for younger students. We are passionate about making language learning fun and Projects beyond the classroom promoting the fact that language skills enable our students to take their place in today's multi-lingual global society.  Class or individual penfriends and e-friends projects with Languages are a real future asset in many areas such as our partner schools abroad. business, engineering, marketing and tourism. Learning  ear10 Language Leaders Programme allows motivated languages helps students develop a number of key life skills students to help plan and take part in our Year 7 such as communicative techniques; knowledge of grammar , Normandy trip, the Rhineland Trip and run after-school both in English and in the foreign language, reading for clubs in our local primary schools. meaning etc. Language learning helps students gain a broad  Our MFL transition classes give primary school students a understanding of the culture of countries and communities taste of language learning at Key Stage 3. where the languages are spoken.  With our own ICT suite, classes have regular access to computer-based learning. Students will learn French in Year 7. We build on the  Many aspects of Citizenship/PSHEE, as well as Numeracy languages and literacy skills learnt at Key Stage 2 (it doesn't and Literacy, are addressed through MFL lessons. matter which language has been learned at primary, the skills  Year 7 “Le Grand Weekend” activities trip to Normandy, and knowledge about language are transferable). which includes a visit to our French partner school In Years 8 and 9, all students continue with French there is an  German Christmas Markets trip tp Aachen to meet up with option for talented linguists to pick up German as well. The our German partner school reduced-Languages Literacy programme continues in Years 8  One week residential trips to Paris and the Rhineland and 9 too. In Years 10 and 11, for GCSE, most students  A level study tours: Berlin (Years 12/13); Brittany work should continue with at least one foreign language. At KS5 experience exchange(Years12/13) French and German are offered to A Level. A Spanish GCSE class is offered as part of the GCSE options programme too.

There are opportunities for Gifted and Talented students such as MFL master classes, both in school and as part of the city- wide initiatives. As they progress through the school, students have the opportunity to become “Language Leaders” to help

If you already play an instrument and wish to continue lessons Music at Plymstock School, or if you would like to start learning an instrument, you need to fill in a form which is available from All Plymstock students will have Music lessons throughout Key music teachers or in your induction pack. Stage 3. The department has 2 teaching classrooms, one which is equipped with keyboards which all students will learn to play and the other room has recently been renovated into a Music Technology suite, which again, all students will use throughout their lessons. We also have 2 practise rooms, equipped with drum kits, electric and acoustic guitars and keyboards. This equipment is available to be used at lunchtimes and after school upon request.

In Music lessons, students will encounter music from several genres, styles and traditions and explore these practically through using the keyboards, guitars, percussion and computers. Some examples of recent topics are pop cover versions, film music, dance remixes and classical theme and variations.

We understand that music is a difficult subject for some, while others may be having instrumental lessons and may already be at an advanced level, so we ensure all students are pushed to reach their own potential by differentiating carefully.

We also run a GCSE course in music where students can further their studies, developing individual performance and composition skills further and expanding the genres we study to include several more classical styles as well as lots more popular ones too.

Physical Education ME in Plymstock School PE is an innovative approach to We have developed the 5 MEs in Plymstock School PE as a overtly teach personal development through the vehicle of model that allows all students to engage, progress and sport. Our ethos in PE is simple; we want to fully equip our succeed. Our PE aims will be delivered in line with these 5 students with the skills they need to meet the challenges of MEs: the future, whatever they may be. We want our students to acquire a clear understanding of health and wellbeing and an enjoyment for physical activity with the aim that they Physical ME Thinking ME develop positive habits that they continue to engage in for life. Social ME Employable ME

We recognise that not every student shares an intrinsic motivation for sport and competition and although we Healthy ME endeavour to nurture a sporting excellence where it is appropriate, we also understand that this approach can often be a barrier for many. We aim to engage ALL young Each half term students will follow a different sport or people in physical activity which is why we felt a new activity and within this the focus will be on improving their approach was needed. physical skills as well as developing one of the other MEs. Each lesson will therefore have a Physical ME objective and

a personal development objective. For example, Students Our core aims are to develop transferable life skills within a may spend one half term following football as an activity safe environment through the vehicle of sport and physical and focussing on Integrity as an aspect of Employable ME. activity. Some of these skills include resilience, integrity, A typical lesson may have the Physical ME objective of innovation, self-motivation, communication and teamwork ‘Developing the dribble’ and an Employable ME objective of as well as developing an understanding of emotional ‘demonstrating fair play and sportsmanship’. wellbeing, stress management and first aid.

This new approach aims to add value to our PE programme without compromising on the things we have traditionally done so well. We aim to highlight how influential physical activity can be in the development of personal qualities and key life skills and in turn create well rounded students who are healthier, happier and more prosperous.

attract well qualified specialist teaching and support staff. Science Lessons are taught by an outstanding team of experienced and newly qualified teachers. The Science department provides excellent teaching of a subject which encompasses everyday life. The study of Science What enrichment activities are available to KS3 fires students' curiosity about phenomena in the world around students? them and beyond. It offers opportunities to find explanations, We offer an after school Science Club which links Science to engaging learners at all levels, linking direct practical the “real world” in an exciting way, extending students' experience with scientific ideas. Experimentation and understanding and enjoyment of the subject. modelling are used to develop and evaluate explanations, The Plymstock Science Department works to ensure that all encouraging critical and creative thought. students get as many opportunities as possible in and out of What Do Year 7 Students Study? the classroom to develop their interest and understanding in the world around them and to give them the skills to help Year 7 students follow a course based on the National them succeed in everything they choose to do. Curriculum with an emphasis on scientific skills such as planning experiments, making observations, representing data How Will Year 7 Students Be Assessed? graphically and drawing conclusions. They learn how Progress will be measured in written tests that come after each knowledge and understanding in Science are rooted in topic which will include styles of questioning relating to evidence and how these ideas change over time. content recall, apply and extend. Throughout Year 7, tasks They discover how scientific ideas contribute to technological designed to assess how learning is progressing may also change – affecting industry, business and medicine and include online quizzes, student presentations and modelling. improving quality of life. They trace the development of Students get the chance to assess themselves and their peers Science worldwide and recognise its cultural significance. They during lessons; they are also taught to plan, monitor and learn to question and discuss issues that may affect their own evaluate their own revision process as a metacognition lives, the directions of societies and the future of the world. strategy. After each topic assessment students are given time, Who Teaches Year 7 Students? built into the lessons, to act on their individual feedback from their teacher. There are 14 Science teachers specialising in Biology, Chemistry or Physics and 12 well-equipped Science laboratories and a Computer Room. The department is able to

stress, relationships, attachment etc. It is an excellent subject Social Sciences to study if you are considering a career working with people such as nursing, social work, teaching, medicine, the police, The Social Sciences Faculty is made up of four subject ares - clinical psychology, management, personnel, advertising, Business Studies, Criminology, Psychology and Sociology. speech therapy, business etc. They are based in the ECO block at the school which has Sociology is the study of society, people as individuals and in classrooms dedicated to the subjects as well as a large groups. It is a good subject to study if you are considering a computer suite. Social science is a generic term that covers career working with people such as social work, housing, subjects that look at the way in which society works and the social services, nursing, child-care, the armed forces, the influence that people can have on society. As the Economic police, personnel management, business, advertising, and Social Research Council states on their website: teaching, medicine, probation, occupational therapy, the law, “It tells us about the world beyond our immediate experience, town planning etc. It is also a fantastic foundation for any and can help explain how our own society works - from the degree. It is a stimulating subject that encourages people to causes of unemployment or what helps economic growth, to look at the world in a different way. We study topics such as how and why people vote, or what makes people happy. It gender, crime and deviance, the role of the mass media, provides vital information for governments and policymakers, changes in families in society and so on. local authorities, non-governmental organisations and others.” Criminology looks at the various different elements of the http://www.esrc.ac.uk/about-esrc/what-is-social-science/ criminal justice system. During the course we look at the Business Studies can be studied from Year 10 onwards, agencies involved and so it is a good choice for anyone who covering topics such as human resources, marketing, wants to work in this sector including the prison service, the production, finance and accounting. Business Studies police, probation, social work and so on. It can also be used qualifications encourage the application of theory to the as entry on to some university courses. As well as the theories workplace - although it does not necessarily mean that a of crime we also choose options form the following: Realities candidate is qualified for a particular role, it should prepare and Perceptions candidates for their future. Ultimately, it prepares students for of Crime; Social all aspects of the workplace as well as roles in leadership and Control: Policy management. and Practice; Changing Psychology is the scientific study of behaviour and experience. Awareness of It takes a scientific approach based on experimentation and Crime and the you must be prepared to learn how to design experiments Crime Scene to yourself (including how to analyse material using statistics) as Courtroom. well as reading about and evaluating the work of others and writing essays. We look at topics such as memory, depression, 11

Show My Homework & MYEd App

Setting up an account and logging in as a parent As a parent you will receive a log in letter with a PIN that can be used to access your account from Show My Homework. 1. Visit this page: showmyhomework.co.uk/login/pin or alternatively there is a direct link to homework on the MYEd app that you are able to download to your device (iPhone and Android) 2. Enter the PIN in the empty field 3. Search for your child’s school name 4. Select ‘submit’ 5. On the next screen add or edit your email address 6. Choose and confirm a password 7. Update details. Next steps Logging in to your Show My Homework account will let you view the homework set for your child or children, as well as the last time they were active on Show My Homework. You will also be able to access their PIN numbers in case they cannot get logged in. From your Dashboard, you will be able to see any student accounts linked to you. You will have access to their information. To check your child’s homework, click on the calendar tab. This will arrange their work in a week by week format that you can filter by date, subject, teacher, class and type of homework task to find what you are looking for more efficiently. If your child has submitted the homework the task will display as submitted and any graded homework will display a score. To search for a specific assignment, use the search box and click on the corresponding title to view details of the assignment. Managing email and push notifications Email notifications allow you to choose when you will be alerted about your child’s homework. You can choose to receive these reminders for upcoming homework and school-wide announcements. To choose your options you can Edit profile which will take you to the settings page, then scroll down until you see manage notifications. Push notifications on your mobile device will allow you to receive alerts. Forgotten your password? Use the same PIN to reset your password, or alternatively request a new password to be sent to your registered email address. If your child is having problems getting logged into their account, you can obtain a recovery PIN which they can use to reset their login information.

After School and Lunchtime Clubs

We have a wide and varied selection of clubs and activities. As well as being enjoyable, taking part in a club or activity is helpful in developing abilities and skills, as well as being a place where new friends can be made. It can also be useful as evidence of extra-curricular activities and will make a CV more attractive to employers. Below is a list of some of the activities available which are likely to continue, dependent on interest:

AFTER SCHOOL Student Gym HMS Heroes Homework Support Homework Club Literacy and Handwriting Club Judo Clay Club/Clay Technical Support Lego/Bionical/Games/Social Club Gym Club Maths Catch-Up Club Science Club Squash Club Trampoline Club Rugby Hockey Netball Badminton Basketball Boys & Girls Football Warhammer Club Surf Club Mountbatten Watersports Club

LUNCHTIMES Fitness Gardening Club Mindfulness HMS Heroes Book Group Duke of Edinburgh (Drop-In) Tabletennis Badminton Musical Theatre

The PE Department also offer a wide range of before school activities and training to students. Clubs and activities are advertised on the school website and booklets are issued by the end of September.

Instrumental Lessons

For students wishing to take part in additional music lessons we offer piano, keyboard and drums on a Tuesday/Wednesday and Guitar on a Thursday.

Lessons are on a rota so students are not absent from the same classes each week and Music Tutors will advise pupils of the timetables at the beginning of each term.

Cost for these 30 minute individual lessons are £125 per term (£375 per year)

* pricing is subject to change

Term Payment Date To take effect from Autumn Tuesday 13 October 2020 5 January 2021

Spring Tuesday 9 February 2021 19 April 2021

Summer Tuesday 25 May 2021 1 September 2021

Payments must be received by the deadlines or the lessons will cease for the following term.

Library and Resource Centre

At Plymstock School library we believe in supporting each student individually to realise their potential. We do this by providing them with a wide range of extra learning resources including audio tapes, DVD’s, CD’s, the local newspaper, magazines and journals, eighteen computers and a vast selection of books.

The library is open from 08.30 -15.10 Monday - Thursday and 10.00 -15.10 on Fridays.

The library manager is assisted by two librarians and there will always be a member of the library staff present throughout the school day. The library staff are helped by twenty library mentors (Year 7-11). As library staff the most important part of our working day, is highlighting our love of reading and endeavouring to pass that on to every child, throughout their time at school.

Each student will automatically become a member of the library when they join Plymstock School in Year 7. Students in Years 7 – 11 can take up to four books home for a period of three weeks.

All Year 7 pupils have a library introduction course where they will learn about library facilities and how to use them. The students will gain further experience of independent learning as research and library lessons will take place throughout Key Stage 3. All students in Year 7 will also have one reading lesson every fortnight as part of the Accelerated Reader scheme, where they take quizzes on the books they have read. Reading rewards are given for this throughout the year.

Through developing their understanding and enjoyment of reading and information gathering skills, we offer them the opportunity to become strong independent learners and lifelong readers.

The Galley

Plymstock School moved to in-house catering from September 2016 and this is proving to be a resounding success. Students now have more input into what is served (this does still need to comply with the Food Nutritional Standards) but our amazing Catering Manager will adapt what he can to meet the requests. The Galley also has its own Coffee Shop to provide an alternative area for the students to use. This has been so successful that one of our 6th formers is employed to support this enterprise. The Galley is open for the majority of the school day for staff and students to benefit from the facilities that are available. The modern and vibrant space incorporates eco solar panels to support the power and heating of The Galley. Our catering service uses a Cashless Biometric System and all students will need to complete the consent form to be able to access the service. Once registered, parents/ carers, can top up their child’s allowance using Parent Pay following the link on the school website or topping up at the revaluation machine located next to the Lecture Theatre. The system uses biometric registration fingerprint recognition BUT NO fingerprint data is stored only a mathematical algorithm (series of numbers) which is unique for each student. Alternatively a 6 digit PIN number can be allocated on request. Spend per day is set at £5 but parents/carers can alter this amount if they so wish. Please contact the school if you would like to action this.

BREAKFAST/BREAK SANDWICHES & SALADS CAKES, SNACKS & FRUIT Bacon Roll £1.70 Batons £2.00 Fresh Fruit Pots 60p Bacon Bagel £2.00 Baps £1.60 Whole Fruit 50p Veggie Bagel £1.80 Wraps £1.80-2.00 Yogurts 60p Cereals 80p Salads £1.90-2.00 Lentil Waves 80p Porridge £1.00 Sandwiches £1.70-1.80 Muffin £1.00 Yogurts £0.60 Hummus & Sticks 80p Pastries 80p Veggiesticks 50p DRINKS Breakfast Bars 75p Pasta Pots £1.40-1.60 Water 50p Innocent Smoothie £1.00 MAINS PANINIS & GRAB & GO Juice 60p Main Meal/Water/Fruit £2.20 Paninis £1.80-2.00 Milk Shake 75p Stir Fry £2.20 Toastie £1.80 Pasty £1.80 Hot Baguette £2.00 Jacket Potato £1.40-£2.00 Bagel £1.90 Vegan and gluten free options are Pitta Pizzas £1.00 available for pre order. Hot Wraps £1.80-2.00 Potato Wedges £1.00 Please see website for more Sweet Potato Wedges £1.40 information Stir Fry £2.10 Chicken Gyros £2.00 Nachos £1.50

Annual Sponsored Walk

Plymstock School runs an annual Sponsored Walk which is a fantastic community event that brings together all members of both our school and the wider community.

The proceeds raised during the day are used to support the student enrichment programme that operates throughout the year benefiting student activities, providing additional opportunities and rewarding positive student behaviour. The money is also used to fund improving the school environment for students at break and lunchtimes.

The walk takes place in June, departing from school and walking a 10 mile route from school around the boundary of Saltram Park and back. All students have the opportunity to take part in the walk and we have designed an alternative route for students who are physically unable to complete the distance which is also suitable for wheelchairs. In addition, there is also the opportunity for students to stay in school and continue with their normal school day.

The event has become the highlight of many staff and students year and we look forward to your child being part of this community event.

HMS Heroes

Service Children & Our Support Group

Her Majesty's Schools Heroes was a unique pupil voice group formed in the City of Plymouth for the support of Service children and young people. It has now grown to be a National Children’s Charity linked to the Royal British Legion (it is now named MKC Heroes). We are part of that National organisation. See the MKC Heroes Website for more details. At Plymstock School, we have over 160 children from service families. We have a single point of contact for the students and their families, as well as other staff who are part of service families, who can support as needed. We also have access to wider service support mechanisms when they are needed.

What do we do? Most of the time it is business as usual, but anyone with service family links will be aware of the mix of pride and concerns that are part of everyday life when family members are away. Whilst we all know that routine is helpful when dealing with separation and worry, but there are days that are more challenging, and some in-school support can be helpful. We also know that there are many other issues that impact family life after deployment and even after retirement. We can help with mentoring and advice on how to manage the tough days, as well as the more practical aspects of contact, and managing the demands of school alongside that of military family life.

How can you help me to help the young people? We welcome information about deployments, as well as pre and post tour leave, as that enables us to ensure that appropriate support is available and absences are correctly authorised. Likewise, if there is anything else that may be impacting upon your child(ren), please let us know so we can ensure appropriate support is available. Please use the following email for contact. It is always the most direct system. [email protected]

Finally, to alleviate any confusion, please be aware that retirement from the Services does not end your child’s entitlement to Service Child status; they remain classed as such for 5 years. Therefore if you were a member of the Services when your child entered Year 7 they will remain a Service Child throughout their time here.

Please do contact me if you have any questions.

Mrs Tracy Wilkins

Lost Property

It is advisable that all items of students property is clearly labelled with their name so that it can be returned to them promptly. Should your child lose any of their possessions, lost property is open every morning from 8.15 - 8.45am and is situated along the Design and Technology corridor, close to the Lecture Theatre. If your property is labelled a slip will be passed to the tutor to let your child know that an item is there and needs to be collected.

First Aid and the Administration of Medicines

At Plymstock School there is a dedicated First Aid room that is situated in the Quad area. This room is staffed with a qualified First Aider from 9.00am until 3.00pm, they are there to deal with any medical issues during the school day. Should your child become ill whilst at school, they must visit the medical room first after receiving a medical referral slip from their teacher. If it is decided that your child is not fit to continue the school day, parents will be contacted to make collection arrangements for them. Children are not permitted to contact parents themselves and make their own arrangements to return home. The correct procedure must be followed and the school should be advised promptly of any changes to contact numbers in case of an emergency. Plymstock School follows the NHS England guidelines. Therefore, if your child is in need of prescribed medication to be administered to them it can be left with the medical team, provided the relevant paperwork has been completed. The school does not accept responsibility for administration of medicines that have not been prescribed by their doctor. Should your child visit the medical room in need of non-prescription, over the counter medication, parents will be contacted to come in to school and administer it to them or contact the school in writing. In addition to the dedicated First Aider, there are additional trained members of staff within school that are available if the First Aider is busy with any emergencies or outside of school hours. Useful reference: www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/484418/supporting-pupils-at-school- with-medical-conditions.pdf

School Fund

Traditionally Plymstock School has had a school fund and we ask all parents for a voluntary contribution towards it. The fund is used to enrich school life by helping us to pay for small but significant extras, such as prizes for internal school competitions, support for students who represent the school in a wide variety of activities and materials for exhibitions of students’ work. Parents of students entering Year 7 will be asked for a one off contribution of £10 on the first day of term. This payment can be made via ParentPay No further donations towards this fund will be requested thereafter. Thank you for your support and welcome to Plymstock School.

Plymstock School Governing Body

Plymstock School has a dedicated and dynamic Governing Body made up of parents, staff (teaching and non-teaching) and representatives from the local community (local businesses etc). It has a wide range of responsibilities including management of Personnel, Finance, Estates and the Curriculum. Governors are volunteers who feel passionate about the education and life chances offered to children and young people who attend our school. If you have any particular skills that you feel could add value to the school, or wish to know more about the role, please contact the Clerk to Governors, Liz Leonard either by letter via the school reception or by email : [email protected]. We look forward to hearing from you. Johanna Rickard Chair of Governors

An Introduction to Our Online Payment Service

What does ParentPay do?  enables you to pay for trips and other items such as school fund  offers a highly secure payment site  gives you a history of all the payments you have made  allows to create a single account login across all your children that attend a ParentPay school  shows you all items available for payment relevant to each of your children  emails a receipt of your payment to the email address you register  offers you the ability to set automated email/SMS payment reminders

How does ParentPay help you?  gives you the freedom to make payments to school whenever and wherever you like  stops you having to write cheques or search for cash to send to school  gives you peace of mind that your payment has been made safely and securely  helps with budgeting; payments are immediate, there is no waiting for cheques to clear  payments for many of the larger trips can be made by instalments up to the due date  you never need miss a payment or have insufficient credit with automated email/SMS alerts  ParentPay is quick and easy to use

How does ParentPay help our school?  reduces the administrative time spent on banking procedures  keeps accurate records of payments made to every service for every student  payments do not bounce  reduces paper ‘waste’  allows for easy and quick refunds to be made back to the payment card  improves communication between the school and parents concerning payments  offers a more efficient payment collection process, reducing the amount of money held on school premises  helps us improve school-home communication with its integrated email/SMS messaging centre

How do I get started? We will send you an activation letter containing your activation username and password to enable you to setup your ParentPay account. During the activation process you will be guided through changing your username and password to something more memorable; if you have more than one child at a ParentPay school/s you can also add children to a single account providing one login for all children at ParentPay schools. If you have any problems with this please contact the school.

More information More information can be found on the ParentPay website, alternatively contact the Finance Office. www.parentpay.com

Applying For Free School Meals

If your child is currently receiving FSM at their Primary school or if you believe that your child is entitled to FSM but you have never made an application then the steps below are to help you through the process of applying for FSM. Plymstock School use Devon County Council for our FSM provider and the application can be made through the Devon County Council website

Select the Education and Families Icon

Choose the School Meals option

The criteria entitlement can be found on this page and also the link to the Citizens Portal which is how you make your application

You will be asked on this page to provide an e-mail address and create a password

The application process is very quick and in most instances you should get an answer straight away. This is then e-mailed to you and can either be printed off or you can bring your phone into the school if you don’t have a printer

Home-School Agreement

Our vision Our objective is simply to be a world-class learning community that enables all young people to succeed both now and later in life.

As a school, we aim:  to provide a safe and caring environment that promotes the positive mental health and well-being of everyone;  to foster a love of learning for its own sake by providing a rich curriculum that enables every young person to discover their strengths and to make the most of their talents within Plymstock School and beyond;  to raise the academic achievement and personal development of every single young person and eliminate performance gaps, through a highly effective co-operative approach to teaching and learning that is challenging, exciting, inspiring and engaging;  to engender respect for individuality, difference, the importance of teamwork and the contribution that every student can make to the life of the school, the local community and the wider world;  to create an enthusiasm for the world beyond the classroom – particularly through the arts, sport, literature and other opportunities to facilitate creativity.

As a student, I will:  attend school on time each day;  wear the school uniform correctly and with pride;  ensure that I bring the correct equipment to school each day;  complete homework on time and to a high standard; show I am ‘ready to learn’ by following our 10 clear classroom rules: 1. Arrive on time, usually within three minutes of the bell, and by the second bell after break and lunch, ensuring an orderly entry and exit; 2. Always try your best and be positive; 3. Start work as soon as instructed by the member of staff; 4. Listen respectfully when others are talking – there should be no calling out or interrupting; 5. Keep ‘off-task’ conversations for social times only; 6. Follow all seating arrangements; 7. Focus on your own work and do not distract the learning of others; 8. Stay in your seat unless instructed otherwise by a member of staff; 9. Don’t eat, drink or chew gum (water is allowed, if the teacher permits it) and put all litter in the bin; 10. Speak to all staff and other students with respect.

As a parent/carer, I will:  support the vision and aims of Plymstock School;  ensure my child attends school on time each day, with the appropriate equipment and in the correct uniform;  contact the school office by 9:15am on every day of student absence to advise if my child is not attending or is likely to be late;  fully support the ready to learn rules and procedures, including a one hour after-school detention if rules are broken;  frequently check ‘Show My Homework’ to ensure my child completes all their homework on time and to a high standard;  ensure that holidays are not taken in term time unless there is an authorised exceptional circumstance;  share relevant information concerning the health welfare, education and behaviour of my child.  speak to school staff directly about any concerns that I might have. I will not post any negative or derogatory comments about students, staff or the school on social networking (e.g Facebook, Twitter etc...) or blogging sites.  sign up to the MyEd application to support communication between school and parent.

Student Code Of Conduct for ICT

I understand that I must use school ICT systems in a responsible way, to ensure that there is no risk to my safety or to the safety and security of the ICT systems and other users.

For my own personal safety:  I understand that the school will monitor my use of the ICT systems, email and other digital communications.  I will treat my username and password like my toothbrush – I will not share it, nor will I try to use any other person's username and password.  I will be aware of the danger of talking to strangers when I am communicating on-line.  I will not disclose or share personal information about myself or others when on-line.  Whilst the school advises students not to meet up with people who you have met online, if you do chose to, you will discuss it with your parents, meet in a public place and always take an adult with you.  I will immediately report any unpleasant or inappropriate material or messages or anything that makes me feel.

I understand that everyone has equal rights to use technology as a resource and:  I understand that the school ICT systems are intended for educational use and that I will not use the systems for personal or recreational use unless I have permission from a member of staff to do so.  I will not try (unless I have permission from a member of staff) to make large downloads or uploads that might take up internet capacity and prevent other users from being able to carry out their work.  I will not use the school ICT systems for accessing pornography or extremist material, online gaming, online gambling, internet shopping, file sharing, or video broadcasting.  I will respect others' work and property and will not access, copy, remove or otherwise alter any other user's files, without the owner's knowledge and permission.  I will be polite and responsible when I communicate with others. I will not use strong, aggressive or inappropriate language and I respect that others may have different opinions.  I will not take or distribute images of anyone without their permission.

I recognise that the school has a responsibility to maintain the security and integrity of the technology it offers me and to ensure the smooth running of the school:  I will only use my personal hand held/external devices (e.g. Smart phones, iPads etc…) in school unless I have a signed a BYOD contract and I have permission from a member of staff. I understand that, if I do use my own devices in school, I will follow the rules set out in this agreement, in the same way as if I was using school equipment.  I understand the risks and will not try to upload, download or access any materials which are illegal or inappropriate or may cause harm or distress to others, nor will I try to use any programmes or software that might allow me to bypass the filtering / security systems in place to prevent access to such materials.  I will immediately report any damage or faults involving equipment or software, however this may have happened.  I will not open any attachments to emails, unless I know and trust the person/organisation who sent the email, due to the risk of the attachment containing viruses or other harmful programmes.  I will not install or attempt to install programmes of any type on a machine, or store programmes on a computer, nor will I try to alter computer settings.  I will not use social networking sites at any time in school.

When using the internet for research or recreation, I recognise that:  I should ensure that I have permission to use the original work of others in my own work.  Where work is protected by copyright, I will not try to download copies (including music and videos).  When I am using the internet to find information, I should take care to check that the information that I access is accurate, as I understand that the work of others may not be truthful and may be a deliberate attempt to mislead me.

I understand that I am responsible for my actions, both in and out of school:  I understand that the school also has the right to take action against me if I am involved in incidents of inappropriate behaviour, that are covered in this agreement, when I am out of school where they involve my membership of the school community (examples would be cyber-bullying, use of images or personal information).  I understand that if I fail to comply with this Code of Conduct, I will be subject to disciplinary action. This may include loss of access to the school network / internet, detentions, exclusions, contact with parents and in the event of illegal activities involvement of the police. 22

Holidays In Term Time

Important: Please read carefully the information below.

As a Parent/Carer, you can demonstrate your commitment to your child’s education by, whenever possible, taking your holidays during school holidays.

The Facts The Law We recognise that it is often expensive to take a holiday during The law does not say that parents have an automatic right to school breaks and that is why some parents may ask for term take their child out of school for holidays during term time. time leave for their children. However, it is important that However, in exceptional circumstances school may authorise, parents carefully consider the implications of taking their child in advance, requests for periods of leave. The request for out of school during term time. leave must come from a parent with whom the child normally Research suggests that children who are taken out of school resides. may never catch up on the course work they have missed. If a child then stays away from school for more than the This may affect test results and can be particularly harmful if authorised period this must be recorded as unauthorised the child is studying for final year examinations. absence and could be quoted in a prosecution for poor Children who struggle with English or Mathematics may also attendance. find it even harder to cope when they return to school, while If the child is away from school for a total of 4 weeks or more, younger children may find it difficult to renew friendships with the school may have to take the child off roll unless there is a their classmates. good reason for the continued absence, such as illness. In What you should consider: these circumstances it is up to the parent to inform the school There are times during a school year when a child may as once removed from roll, there is no guarantee that the child experience particular problems because of term time leave will regain a place at the school. such as: The Education (Pupil Registration) (England) (Amendment) Closeness to exams or tests (Standard Attainment Tests in Year Regulations 2013 came into force on the 1 September 2013. 2, 6 and 9). The amendments make it clear that head teachers may not grant any leave of absence during term time unless there are During GCSE, and other examination courses. exceptional circumstances. Head teachers should determine During the first year at a new school. the number of school days a child can be away from school if

Other absence from school will be authorised if it is for Other absence from school will not be authorised: the following reasons: Genuine illness For any type of shopping Unavoidable medical/dental appointments (but try to make Looking after brothers, sisters or unwell parents these after school it at all possible) Minding the house Days of religious observance Birthdays Exceptional circumstances, such as bereavement Resting after a late night Seeing a parent who is on leave from the armed forces Relatives visiting or visiting relatives External examinations Holiday prices, and the fact that the parents have booked a When Traveller children go on the road with their parents holiday before checking with the school, are not exceptional where the school is informed beforehand circumstances.

Please contact the Headteacher if you wish to discuss this issue. The law requires schools to be open to pupils for 190 days each year, and every day is important. Please help them not to miss any of this valuable time. We hope that when you have read this you will consider that your child’s education is too important to take holidays during term time.

WeST Privacy Notice

Parents General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) 2016

The Westcountry Schools Trust (WeST) is the Data Controller for the purposes of the GDPR regulations.

The term ‘parent’ is used here as defined in section 576 of the Education Act 1996.  A parent of a pupil  Any person who is not a parent of a pupil but who has parental responsibility for the pupil  Any person who has care of a pupil

Personal data is held by Plymstock School about parents of all pupils on roll. Plymstock School is a member of the Westcountry Schools Trust. Parent data assists in the smooth running of the school and is used to support pupil’s learning.

The categories of parent information that we collect, hold and share include:

 Personal information (such as name, gender and address)  Contact details (such as e-mail address, telephone number or place of work)

Why we collect and use this information

We use the data:  to provide appropriate pastoral care  to assess the quality of our services  to comply with the statutory requirements regarding reporting student attendance and progress  to ensure that there is effective communication between school and home

The lawful basis on which we use this information

WeST Schools process parent information under article 6 (e) of the GDPR regulations where processing is necessary for the performance of a task carried out in the public interest. https://www.eugdpr.org/

Collecting parent information

Whilst the majority of parent information you provide to us is mandatory, some of it is provided to us on a voluntary basis. In order to comply with the General Data Protection Regulation, we will inform you whether you are required to provide certain information to us or if you have a choice in this

Storing pupil data

WeST schools hold pupil data for a set period in line with the recommendations provided by the Information and Records Management Society. Please contact the Headteacher or school administrator if you would like more information about the retention periods being applied via [email protected]

Who we share pupil information with

Schools use a range of trusted service providers to help support the smooth running of education systems.

We routinely share parent information with:  Schools that the pupil’s attend after leaving us  Our local authority and approved LA partners  Approved public service partners (NHS, Police, Social Services)  Management Information Software suppliers and associated programmes e.g. Capita Business Services, ParentPay Ltd, Groupcall Ltd, Cunninghams Ltd etc…

Why we share parent information

We do not share information about our parents with anyone without consent unless the law and our policies allow us to do so.

Requesting access to your personal data

Under data protection legislation, parents and pupils aged 16 and over have the right to request access to information that we hold. To make a request for your personal information, or be given access to your child’s educational record, please submit your request to the WeST Data Protection Officer. Details of how to do this, along with the request form can be found on the Plymstock School website via the following link: http://plymstockschool.org.uk/general-data-protectionregulation-gdpr/

Data subject rights

You also have the right to:  object to processing of personal data that is likely to cause, or is causing, damage or distress  prevent processing for the purpose of direct marketing  object to decisions being taken by automated means  in certain circumstances, have inaccurate personal data rectified, blocked, erased or destroyed  claim compensation for damages caused by a breach of the Data Protection regulations

If you have a concern about the way we are collecting or using your personal data, we request that you raise your concern with us in the first instance. Alternatively, you can contact the Information Commissioner’s Office at https://ico.org.uk/concerns/

Contact

If you would like to discuss anything in this privacy notice, please contact: [email protected] or, WeST Data Protection Officer: [email protected]