BOARD OF GOVERNORS’ REPORT 2018-19 ______

Belfast High School

November 2019

CONTENTS

Chairman’s Foreword Board of Governors’ Discharge of Function in Relation to the School Membership of the Board of Governors 2018-19 Ethos and Vision of Belfast High School Enrolment, Admissions and Attendance School Activities/Pupil Achievements Examination Results 2018-19 School Leavers’ Destinations 2018-19 Curriculum Pastoral Care, Safeguarding and SEN Security of Pupils, Staff and Premises Links with the Community Financial Statement School Development Days 2018-19 School Policies

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Chairman’s Foreword

As Chairperson of the Board of Governors of Belfast High School, it is my pleasure and privilege to introduce the school’s annual report for the academic year 2018-19.

We live in a world that is constantly changing – when will Brexit happen, will Brexit happen, and what will the consequences be. Most of us use technology that even a few years ago would have seemed beyond our imagination and if we stop to think for a moment what the world will look like in 2026 when our current Year 8 pupils finish their time in Belfast High School it can become a little frightening.

It is therefore more important than ever that we continue to provide our pupils with the best possible education both in the classroom and through the many and varied extra-curricular activities which Belfast High School provides, and I hope as you read this report you will be inspired as we celebrate many of the achievements of our pupils over the past year.

As well as constant change all schools continue to operate under severe financial pressure and we would like to thank all the staff for their commitment to the school in these challenging times and their continuing desire to provide our pupils with the best possible opportunity for them to reach their full potential and their aspiration to instil in each pupil the determination to strive in all activities, academic and otherwise, to achieve his or her own level of excellence.

We acknowledge the very strong examination performances by our pupils; at A Level the 78% 3xA*-C passes places us in line with the NI Grammar School Average and at GCSE the 94% 7xA*- C passes including English and Maths places us above the NI Grammar School Average. We also recognise the key role that our teachers, parents and other family members play in supporting and encouraging the pupils in all of their endeavours.

Finally, we would like to thank Mrs Weir for her leadership of the school and offer our warm congratulations on a very successful first year as full time Principal and we look forward to seeing Belfast High continue to go from strength to strength.

Mr M Finlay Chairman

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Board of Governors’ Discharge of Function in Relation to the School

The Governors met regularly through various sub-committees and full Board meetings during the period September 2018 to June 2019. Minutes were taken at all meetings and circulated to members. The Board Sub Committees are:

Education Human Resources Grounds, Property and Development Finance Audit Admissions Appeals

The Board of Governors ensured that the School fulfilled its curricular and pastoral care responsibilities and provided a range of co-curricular activities for all pupils. The Board and its Finance Committee ensured that the School made the most effective use of the financial resources available to it.

Whilst the Board of Governors has overall responsibility for the management of the School, the Principal is delegated by the Board of Governors with the responsibility for the strategic leadership and management of the School, including the School’s finances. The Senior Leadership Team meets once per week and consists of the Principal, the Vice Principal and four Senior Teachers. The team has a leading role in strategic planning and ensuring the efficiency and effectiveness of how the School operates.

All members of the Senior Leadership Team are familiar with the important day to day issues of school life and may be delegated significant responsibilities in the absence of either the Principal and/or the Vice Principal.

Heads of Department meet with the Senior Leadership Team throughout the year to ensure coherence and consistency in their approach to the delivery of the curriculum.

Heads of Year oversee the day to day pastoral issues within their year group and provide support and guidance to their Form Teachers. Heads of Year meet regularly with the Senior Leadership Team to ensure a consistent team approach.

Other staff who hold additional teaching allowances are managed through a line management system. These allowances are required to address additional significant aspects of school life.

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Board of Governors 2018-19

Member Governors: Mr M Finlay, BSSc (to May 2022) Mrs J McDermott, PG CIPD Strategic HR, CIPD TP and Cert Crim Law (to December 2021) Dr K McKnight BSc, MA (Cantab), BM BCh (Oxon), FRCP (to May 2022) Prof. R Millar, MA (Cantab), DPhil, CEng, FBCS, CITP, FHEA (to May 2021) Mr B Roden, BSc, FCA (to May 2021)

Parent Governors: Mr K Swarbrick, BA, MA, FCA, MAPM (to December 2021) Mrs A Zacharopoulou, LLB, LLM, PGCUT, SFHEA (to December 2021)

Teacher Governor: Dr J King, MA, PGCE, PhD (to December 2021)

Department of Education Nominated Governors: Mr G Gray, BSc, PGCE, CSci(teach) (to December 2021) Mr L Johnston, BEd, DASE, Adv Dip Ed (to December 2021) Ms D Kiley, LLB, CPLS (to December 2021) Mr K Kilpatrick, BA, PG Dip Comp Sci, MEd, PG Cert Management (to December 2021) Mr WK Mo, BA, ILM (to December 2021) Mr G Wills, BSc, MArch, ARB, RIBA (to December 2021)

Principal Mrs C Weir, BA, MSc, PGCE, PQH

Secretary to the Board of Governors Mrs M McCaughey, BSSc, PGCE, PGDip, FinAcc (School Bursar)

Office Bearers Chairman Mr M Finlay Vice Chairman Prof R Millar

Convenor of Education Committee Prof R Millar Convenor of Human Resources Committee Ms D Kiley Convenor of Finance Committee Mr K Swarbrick Convenor of Grounds, Property and Development Committee Mr G Wills Convenor of Audit Committee Prof R Millar Convenor of Admissions Committee Mr M Finlay Convenor of Appeals Committee Mr M Finlay

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Ethos and Aims of Belfast High School

Belfast High School is a co-educational voluntary grammar school, controlled by a Board of Governors. It was founded in 1854 by John Pyper on a site near Carlisle Circus in Belfast. The School moved to its present location in Jordanstown in 1963 and now occupies a 32-acre site on the north shore of Belfast Lough. It is a school which is forward-looking and innovative while retaining the values and tradition of its founders and has a reputation as one of the leading grammar schools in the country.

Ethos To develop each person to be the best that he or she can be in an atmosphere of civilised tolerance.

Aims

 To provide a broad, balanced and coherent curriculum which suits the needs of all pupils in a changing society and which encourages each pupil in his or her intellectual, cultural, aesthetic and physical development.  To instil in each pupil the determination to strive in all activities, academic and otherwise to achieve his or her own level of excellence.  To encourage in pupils a respect for religious and moral values.  To create a caring environment in which the needs of each pupil are considered.  To foster social attitudes which will enable each pupil to take his or her place as a responsible member of the community.  To value and respect everyone, recognise their strengths and differences, encourage them to develop their skills and abilities and have a positive attitude to each and every member of our community.  To develop the three-way partnership (parent-pupil-school) to enable our pupils to attain their full potential.  To prepare our pupils for the challenges and opportunities of the fast-paced C21st world.

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Enrolment, Admissions and Attendance

Enrolment The enrolment for 2018-19 was 914 pupils (DENI census 2018).

Admissions The admissions number for Year 8 was 136.

The table below shows the number who applied and who were admitted over the past 3 years:

Admissions Total Applications Appeals Total Year Number All Preferences Upheld Admissions 2017-18 136 187 0 138* 2018-19 136 194 0 136 2019-20 136 170 0 136

*includes 2 pupils with a statement of special educational needs

Attendance The Annual Attendance Rate for 2018-19, calculated in the manner set down by the Department of Education was 95.5%

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School Activities and Achievements

The Board of Governors of Belfast High School is pleased to present the Annual Report for the academic year 2018-2019. The Report begins with a review of the public examination results which were published in August 2019.

The class of 2019 left us with another very strong set of results for the school with 92% of all entries awarded at grades A*-C, 70% of entries A*-B and 39% of all entries an A or A*.

In a year group of 100 pupils, our top 20 pupils achieved 23 A* and 40 A grades between them. Special congratulations go to our 2 top performing pupils - Dieon Karikunnel who achieved 4A* grades and Adam Crilly who achieved 3A* and 1 A grade. Our pupils have gone on to an ever more diverse range of destinations: some have continued their studies at universities across the UK and Ireland, have taken up apprenticeships with organisations as diverse as PWC and the Scripture Union, gone to teach English in Chile and Senegal through Project Trust or taken up a scholarship in the United States.

2019 was the first year of results for the new GCSEs with the new grading system, the introduction of a new C*, a smaller band for a B grade and 2-year linear English Board exams with results awarded at 9-1. Any change of subject specification is stressful for teachers and pupils but as results day demonstrated, the determination and ability of the pupils and the commitment and expertise of the staff ensured that the cohort of 2019 delivered some of the best GCSE results the school has ever achieved. One of the key benchmarks at this level is the percentage of pupils who achieve 7 passes at A*-C grade including English and Maths and for this cohort that figure was 94% of all of the pupils. An incredible 60% of all grades achieved was an A or an A* and equally impressive was the statistic of 70% of all grades awarded were A*-B. Special congratulations go to Amy Armstrong, Katie Marshall, Christian Perry and Alexandra Stafford-Santana who each attained 9A* and 1A grades and Amy Ellis a fantastic 10A* grades. In Spanish Elena Eickhoff- Fernandez was placed second in Northern Ireland. In GCSE Art Stephanie Robinson had her artwork selected for the CCEA True Colours exhibition and Katie Marshall and Cameron Tucker were awarded maximum marks in their GCSE.

In staffing this year we thank our teaching retirees for their many years of service to the school, both inside and outside the classroom: Miss McKeown from the English Department, Dr Gaston from the Chemistry department and Mrs Gregory from the History and Politics departments. They each contributed a lot to the education of many of our pupils in the widest sense as well as being highly valued colleagues. We also bade farewell to 2 long serving members of our support staff: Sandra Maguire, our canteen supervisor and Wing Mei Yeung, our ICT Assistant and the Board wishes them both well as they enjoy their well-earned free time. The Board also thanks Dr Gibson for her contribution to the school firstly as Head of Physics and then as Head of Science. As an Odgen Trust Teacher Fellow, Dr Gibson worked in collaboration with the charity to spread her enthusiasm and commitment to Physics to our partner schools.

The Board also sends its very best wishes to those staff whose career path sees them moving on: to Mr Jellie whose contributions as a Year Head, to Religious Studies and Geography, and through Duke of Edinburgh were appreciated by many - the Board wishes him well in his new role as the Head of Religious Studies in Strathearn.

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to Miss Jones who left us to take up a position as Head of Technology in Guernsey Grammar School and Sixth Form Centre. to Dr Woods who left us to take up a position as a lecturer in the School of Education at the Ulster University. to Ms Macpherson in her roles as Head of Biology and Careers on her move to Spain.

With these departures come new arrivals and the Board welcomed the following permanent members of staff - Mr Young to the position of Head of English, Mrs Wharry to the Religious Studies department and Miss McQueen to the Geography department. The Board also welcomed back Dr Anderson in Biology, Miss Berry in English, Miss Robinson in History, Mr Robinson in Technology, Mr Gilmour in PE and Mr McLarnon in Physics.

The Board congratulates Mrs Rogers, Mr Spence, Mrs Edwards, Dr Wood and Mrs Burch on the successful completion of their respective middle Leader development programmes. Mrs Edwards also secured a new one-year contract as a Lead Educator with the National Space Academy and Mrs Burch extended her repertoire with an additional qualification in the clarinet. The Board also congratulates Mr Agnew, senior science technician, who was a Northern Ireland finalist in the Enthuse Stem Technician Awards

The school’s commitment to provide the highest standard of facilities for pupils and staff continued last year with the installation of a new lift and fire escape to the Music department, a new hygiene room and the first phase of the refurbishment of the assembly hall.

The school’s partnership with the Friends of Belfast High School, under the leadership of Chairperson Mrs Elizabeth Moore, was very successful again last year with a range of fundraising events to cater for all tastes: a Colour Run, quiz, plant sale, Zumba classes and a premium gin tasting evening and photographic competition. The Friends also cornered the market in hot drinks and snacks every Saturday morning from the ‘Snack Shack’. In these testing financial times this source of support and their financial contributions are invaluable and the Board thanks them for all of their efforts in enhancing the experiences of our pupils. It is through their efforts that the school was able to proceed with the new cashless cafeteria system which has been operational for all pupils and staff since February.

The school’s connections with our former pupils remain strong; the Old Girls’ Association ran a number of events including a film night in school, a night at the school musical Footloose, an evening of fashion with Moira from Barn Owl Boutique and their annual dinner in the Templeton. The Old Boys had another successful season with the 1st XV and the 2nd XV both won their respective leagues and they held their annual dinner in the Ivory, Belfast.

In hockey, the U14 team reached the Ulster Hockey Junior Shield Final against Sullivan. After 16 penalty runs for each team, the match went to sudden death, where a final save from keeper Leah Matchett secured the win for the girls. Congratulations go to members of the U14 team Leah Matchett, Isabel Stafford-Santana and Lara Brines who were selected for the U15 North Eastern Area Board team. Isabel and Lara were joined by Vanessa McAlister and Daire Ellis in their selection for the Ulster U15 Talent Development Squad.

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The Board congratulates Scott Hutton who was selected for the Ulster U19 rugby team, Scott Dennis was selected for the Ulster U18 Clubs squad and Jana McQuillan who was selected for the Ulster U18 girls’ squad. The U12A team won the Hilditch Cup in a nail-biting final.

In May the Year 9 netball team, supported by some talented Year 8 pupils, were one of 24 schools that participated in the Rockport invitational tournament. Our girls defeated Aquinas in the final to win the cup. Netball success spanned the breadth of the school, as our minor, junior and intermediate teams all reached the finals of the Northern Ireland league held back in April.

Ellie Rea and Jill smiley were selected for Netball NI’s National Long Squad, Eva Wilson and Madison McFadden were presented with Netball NI U13 Academy awards and Natasha Nevins was selected for the Northern Ireland U17 netball squad.

In cross country Conor Cunningham, Holly Diamond and Jayden Lloyd, along with the junior boys’ team, mini girls’ team and junior girls’ team, qualified for the Ulster Championships. Special congratulations go to Conor Cunningham and Lara Brines who also qualified for the Irish finals.

In table tennis it was another excellent year for Conor Nugent who achieved bronze in the All Ireland National Table Tennis Championships and represented Ireland in the subsequent Inter Provincials. Conor also won the Ulster Men’s competition and the Ulster Schools’ U19 Individual Championships. He also had great success when representing the school, helping the U18 team to bronze at Ulster level as well as coaching the U13 team who achieved silver.

In golf, Taylor Morrison was selected for the Ulster U16 Golf Development Squad and qualified to participate in the Irish U18 boys’ amateur championships.

The Board congratulates Jenni Beattie, Ruairidh Davis, Daniel Harvey and Ellen Millar who competed in a Swim Ireland Level 3 National Qualifying Event in Bangor. Jenni won gold, silver and bronze and qualified to compete in the Irish Division 1 Championships. Ruairidh, Daniel and Ellen achieved personal bests and Ellen won silver in the medley. Daniel was selected as one of 40 swimmers for the Swim Ireland Regional Skills Academy and Ellen qualified to swim at the Irish Summer Nationals in Dublin.

Our year 10 and 11 girls’ football teams participated in in the annual IFA football tournament Mallusk. The girls had a great day at the competition in which 81 teams took part from across Northern Ireland. In boys’ football Conor Cunningham was selected for the Northern Ireland U15 team to play in the UEFA U15 development tournament in Wales in August.

Athletics continues to be one of the school’s most popular and successful extra-curricular sports. Last year at the Districts our pupils achieved 16 gold, 17 silver and 14 bronze medals, with 42 individuals and 5 relay teams competing for medals at the Ulster finals. Our individual Ulster medallists were Leo McCrea, Scott Dennis, Zara Espie, Ethan Gardiner, sisters Erin and Holly Diamond, Rhea Whittley and the mini boys’ relay team. This very impressive performance was followed up with a long trip to Tullamore for the Irish Athletics Championships. Congratulations to our Ulster and Irish medallists Zane McQuillan, Iona Macpherson, Joshua Knox and Isabel Stafford-Santana. The Board congratulates our Year 8 Mini Boys’ Team who won silver in the 4 x 100m final and were crowned as overall Ulster Team Champions.

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They then went on to win team gold at the Ulster Schools’ Year 8 invitational competition. Joshua Knox had another successful year culminating in his selection for the Schools’ International Athletics Board team to represent Ireland. He was also selected to compete at the UK School Games along with Christian Dukakins, Jill Smiley and Ellie Rea.

Following their gold and bronze medals at the Ulster Multi Event Championships, Finlay Stewart and Jana McQuillan competed at the All Ireland Schools’ Combined Events. Special congratulations to Finlay who competed with the Irish team in Glasgow where they took home silver. Joshua and Finlay, along with Holly Diamond, represented Ulster in the inter-pros in Dublin.

Joseph Karauzum excelled in sailing yet again. Joseph represented Ireland at the World Championships in Poland last year and was the recipient of a Mary Peter’s Coca Cola Thank You Fund, which facilitates young people who excel in their sport to become level one coaches.

Daniel Corbett, a member of the RYA NI performance programme, was selected to participate in this year’s Eric Twiname Championships at Rutland Water in May. James Corbett, was selected to compete in the Topper British Nationals in Scotland during the summer.

In tennis the senior girls’ team of Laura Johnson, Lara Brines, Pippa Knowles and Annabel McGrath reached the senior plate final against Methody. Deputy Head Girl Rebecca Bell was presented the Exemplary Conduct and Unselfish Service Award by Rotary Club of Newtownabbey.

The Board congratulates Talula Reid, Erin Peel and Holly McKinney who were presented with Billy Reid bursaries from Ballyclare Lions. Talula won the £500 first prize which she used to continue her Chinese studies. Erin and Holly were awarded with joint 3rd place and used their bursaries to help with music expenses.

The Community Service Group worked exceptionally hard, giving back to those most in need in our society. In May over 30 pupils from years 8-14 participated in the Belfast City Marathon Fun Run for the charity BART (Belfast Arthroplasty Research Trust) who provide funding for research projects in joint replacement for the benefit of patients in Musgrave Park Hospital and further afield. Members of Community Service also presented a cheque for £1,000 to Women’s Aid - ABCLN ‘Make It Better’ Appeal to support the education of domestic abuse amongst children and young people. The pupils chose to support this cause as the ‘Make It Better’ team has had a real impact in our school through development programmes and a domestic violence awareness course. The group also donated 40 handbags filled with gifts for Women’s Aid, for mums who are often forgotten about at Christmas time. Junior members of Community Services presented a cheque for £1,000 to Elaine and her guide dog Chaz from Angel Eyes. Last year our pupils continued to support and volunteer at the Angel Eyes monthly Saturday youth Club.

Last year a number of sixth form boys decided to Brave the Shave for Macmillan Cancer Support and raised almost £4,000 for Macmillan Northern Ireland.

The Board congratulates the Junior Council on winning the Education Authority’s ‘Plastic Waste in Schools’ Competition. The council submitted a written article and a 3-minute video on their proposals. They were invited to attend a ceremony and presented with cheque for £500 as winners of the competition in which 40 schools competed. Members of the School Council attended the EPSRC ACCEPT Transitions Project Launch in June at Queen’s University Belfast, where they were invited to display a poster as winners of the competition. 11

In February Reuben Bolton, Jordan McClelland and Talula Reid represented Spain at the European Union Mock Council hosted by the British Council at Belfast City Hall. Twenty-eight schools were represented by 84 students from across Northern Ireland. The pupils took part in lively debates covering the relevant issues surrounding climate change and immigration.

Talula Reid took part in the Soroptimist International Northern Ireland 37th annual public speaking competition where she achieved 3rd place. This competition encourages girls in years 12 and 13 to play a more prominent role in public life and to improve their communication and articulation skills.

Our senior debating teams participated in the annual Concern Debates.

The Bar Mock Trial competition is a unique opportunity for students aged 15-18 from all over the UK to gain a real insight into the justice system. The students take on the roles of barristers, witnesses, clerks, ushers and jury members and are assisted in their preparations to appear in real courts, in front of real judges by professional barristers. After months of preparation, with invaluable assistance from Ms Kiley, the Belfast High School team attended the Royal Courts of Justice for the NI regional heat. The team received high praise from the judges but unfortunately did not make it to the final, in what was the school’s first outing to the competition for some time.

Once again, the school produced a very successful Young Enterprise team. The company, Tenacity, produced a book aimed at children aged 5-10 which explains how children can recycle and the importance of recycling. Tenacity won the area heat and were invited to officially launch the book in Stormont. The group organised the event and managing directors Jack Storey and Scott Hutton gave presentations about the work of the group and their book. The company also attended the Northern Ireland Finals at Belfast City Hall where they were presented with the Disney Creativity Award.

The Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme proved popular again and pupils were awarded 61 bronze, 10 silver and 5 gold awards.

In music Conor Brines, Naomh Clow and Erin Peel travelled to London and performed at the Royal Albert Hall with the City of Belfast Youth Orchestra to provide the finale to the Music for Youth Proms concerts. Naomh and Erin also performed with the Ulster Youth Orchestra in the Ulster Hall in August. Rebecca Jenkins and Maddie Elliott successfully auditioned for the Ulster Youth Choir. Our Chamber Choir participated in the BBC NI Choir of the Year competition. The school’s production, Footloose, was a great success.

Our pupils have had many opportunities to take part in subject related competitions and events. Last year there was one area which captured the imagination of the whole school - Robotics. The team began their journey in the Northern Ireland heats of the First Lego League, a global science and technology competition. They then progressed to the UK Finals in Bristol where they earned a place at the World Festival in Detroit. The team had a fantastic time and came away with the IET Outstanding Teamwork Award.

Reuben Bolton, Jay Ford, Andrew Huey, Annabel McGrath, Matthew Mullen and Niamh Wait were selected for our Sentinus Research and Design team. The pupils worked on the design of a low- cost water disinfection technique to be implemented in Mexico. They were presented with a Young Scientists’ Award and were selected to represent Northern Ireland in Birmingham at the Big Bang Fair. 12

The Board congratulates all pupils who achieved gold, silver or bronze certificates in the junior, intermediate or senior maths challenges and Joseph Lismore, our senior gold winner.

It was also an exciting year for the school’s aspiring chemists with students representing the school in a number of events and competitions at Queen’s University. A number of our senior pupils achieved certificates for their achievements in the UK RSC Chemistry Olympiad. Congratulations to Adam Crilly and Dieon Karikunnel who achieved silver awards.

There were a number of residential trips which took place last year. The rugby team went on tour to Glasgow, the Year 8s had their annual trip to Paris, the ski trip to Boston was a huge success, the CU had a great time in sunny Castlewellan, County Down and our junior hockey and netball players also enjoyed an end of season activity weekend in Tullymore.

There were also subject trips to Rome for classics students and to the World War I Battlefields for those studying history.

The Board thanks all staff who have worked tirelessly to support our pupils so well and for constantly going above and beyond to ensure that the school continues to provide great opportunities and experiences both inside and outside the classroom.

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Examination Results 2018-19

Summary of Public Examination Results in 2019 (See tables for subject statistics):

Year 12 (GCSE) Total number of subject entries: 1215 Average number of subject entries per pupil 9 Overall percentage pass rate: 97% Percentage achieving 7 or more grades A*-C: 94% Percentage achieving 5 or more grades A*-C: 96% % achieving 7 or more grades A*-C (inc Eng/Maths): 94% % achieving 5 or more grades A*-C (inc Eng/Maths): 96%

Year 14 (GCE) Total number of subject entries: 307 Average number of subject entries per pupil: 3 Overall percentage pass rate: 100% Percentage achieving 3 or more grades A-C: 78% Percentage achieving 2 or more grades A-E: 100%

TREND DATA

GCSE and GCSE Equivalent Subjects - *following permitted 2016/17 2017/18 2018/19 exclusions Percentage of school on SEN register 5.4 5.6 6.2 Percentage of school pupils entitled to FSM 8.8 9.4 8.1 *Percentage of Year 12 taking GCSE and Equivalents in at least 7 subjects 99 99 98 *Percentage of Year 12 obtaining Grades C or above in at least 7 subjects 84 92 94 NI average for all grammar schools for 7 passes A*-C 92 91 91 *Percentage of Year 12 obtaining Grades C or above in at least 7 subjects 83 90 94 including GCSE English and GCSE Mathematics NI average for all grammar schools for 7 A*-C passes including E and M 90 90 90 *Percentage of Year 12 obtaining Grades C or above in at least 5 subjects 96 94 96 *Percentage of Year 12 entitled to FSM achieving 5 or more GCSEs Grades A* - C or equivalent (including GCSE English and GCSE 83 90 89 Mathematics)

Year 14

GCE A Level or equivalent 2016/17 2017/18 2018/19 Percentage of Year 14 taking A levels and Equivalents in at least 3 100 99 100 subjects Percentage of Year 14 obtaining Grades C or above in at least 3 A levels 82 82 78 The NI average for all grammar schools achieving 3 A*-C 78 78 78 14

GCSE RESULTS 2019 (FULL COURSE)

SUBJECT Entry A* A B C* C D E F U Art and No 7 12 5 2 1 1 0 0 0 28 Design % 25.0 42.9 17.9 7.1 3.6 3.6 0.0 0.0 0.0 No 10 21 4 1 1 0 0 0 0 Biology 37 % 27.0 56.8 10.8 2.7 2.7 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Business No 7 14 9 5 3 4 0 1 0 43 Studies % 16.3 32.6 20.9 11.6 7.0 9.3 0.0 2.3 0.0 No 19 15 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 Chemistry 36 % 52.8 41.7 2.8 2.8 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Child No 3 9 6 3 1 0 0 0 0 22 Development % 13.6 40.9 27.3 13.6 4.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Digital No 2 3 3 0 0 1 0 0 0 9 Technology % 22.2 33.3 33.3 0.0 0.0 11.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 No 2 6 4 1 0 0 0 0 0 Drama 13 % 15.4 46.2 30.8 7.7 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 English No 16 45 44 23 7 2 1 1 0 139 Language % 11.5 32.4 31.7 16.5 5.0 1.4 0.7 0.7 0.0 English No 16 44 41 18 10 3 0 1 0 133 Literature % 12.0 33.1 30.8 13.5 7.5 2.3 0.0 0.8 0.0 Food and No 1 5 2 5 2 0 1 0 0 16 Nutrition % 6.3 31.3 12.5 31.3 12.5 0.0 6.3 0.0 0.0 No 12 30 10 14 12 3 0 0 0 French 81 % 14.8 37.0 12.3 17.3 14.8 3.7 0.0 0.0 0.0 Further No 14 19 10 4 1 0 0 0 0 48 Mathematics % 29.2 39.6 20.8 8.3 2.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 No 28 21 5 2 2 0 2 0 0 Geography 60 % 46.7 35.0 8.3 3.3 3.3 0.0 3.3 0.0 0.0 No 1 4 6 4 3 3 1 0 0 German 22 % 4.5 18.2 27.3 18.2 13.6 13.6 4.5 0.0 0.0 No 6 19 10 4 3 2 1 0 0 History 45 % 13.3 42.2 22.2 8.9 6.7 4.4 2.2 0.0 0.0 No 37 55 37 6 2 2 0 0 0 Mathematics 139 % 26.6 39.6 26.6 4.4 1.4 1.4 0.0 0.0 0.0 No 2 4 5 1 1 1 0 0 0 Music 14 % 14.3 28.6 35.7 7.1 7.1 7.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 No 10 19 7 0 1 0 0 0 0 Physics 37 % 27.0 51.4 18.9 0.0 2.7 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Religious No 3 4 1 2 0 1 0 0 0 11 Studies % 27.3 36.4 9.1 18.2 0.0 9.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 Science No 31 53 42 21 12 1 0 0 0 160 (Double Award) % 19.4 33.1 26.3 13.1 7.5 0.6 0.0 0.0 0.0 Science No 1 1 3 1 0 0 0 0 0 6 (Single Award) % 16.7 16.7 50.0 16.7 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 No 7 13 5 1 2 0 0 0 0 Spanish 28 % 25.0 46.4 17.9 3.6 7.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Technology and No 0 5 6 1 1 0 0 0 0 13 Design % 0.0 38.5 46.2 7.7 7.7 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

SUBJECT Entry 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 Classical No 2 3 3 3 2 1 0 0 0 14 Civilisation % 14.3 21.4 21.4 21..4 14.3 7.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 Computer No 7 3 3 1 1 1 0 1 0 17 Science % 41.2 17.6 17.6 5.9 5.9 5.9 0.0 5.9 0.0 No 4 2 3 2 0 0 0 0 0 Electronics 11 % 36.4 18.2 27.3 18.2 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 No 3 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 Latin 6 % 50.0 33.3 16.7 0.0 0. 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Physical No 2 4 7 6 5 1 2 0 0 27 Education % 7.4 14.8 25.9 22.2 18.5 3.7 7.4 0.0 0.0 15

A LEVEL RESULTS 2019

Total Grade Grade Grade Grade Grade Grade Un- SUBJECT Entry A* A B C D E graded Art and No 1 2 1 1 0 0 0 5 Design % 20.0 40.0 20.0 20.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 No 2 6 10 5 1 0 0 Biology 24 % 8.3 25.0 41.7 20.8 4.2 0.0 0.0 Business No 2 6 11 8 1 0 0 28 Studies % 7.1 21.4 39.3 28.6 3.6 0.0 0.0 No 5 9 2 4 2 0 0 Chemistry 22 % 22.7 40.9 9.1 18.2 9.1 0.0 0.0 Classical No 0 2 2 7 2 1 0 14 Civilisation % 0.0 14.3 14.3 50.0 14.3 7.1 0.0 Computer No 1 1 3 0 0 0 0 5 Science % 20.0 20.0 60.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Digital No 2 2 1 3 4 1 0 13 Technology % 15.4 15.4 7.7 23.1 30.8 7.7 0.0 No 2 1 2 0 1 0 0 Electronics 6 % 33.3 16.7 33.3 0.0 16.7 0.0 0.0 English No 0 9 7 5 0 0 0 21 Literature % 0.0 42.9 33.3 23.8 0.0 0.0 0.0 No 0 2 2 3 0 0 0 French 7 % 0.0 28.6 28.6 42.9 0.0 0.0 0.0 No 3 8 13 1 4 0 0 Geography 29 % 10.3 27.6 44.8 3.4 13.8 0.0 0.0 No 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 German 2 % 0.0 100.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Government No 0 3 5 1 0 0 0.0 9 and Politics % 0.0 33.3 55.6 11.1 0.0 0,0 0.0 No 0 1 1 1 0 0 0 History 3 % 0.0 33.3 33.3 33.3 0.0 0.0 0.0 No 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 Latin 1 % 0.0 0.0 0.0 100.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 No 4 17 9 2 2 0 0 Mathematics 34 % 11.8 50.0 26.5 5.9 5.9 0,0 0.0 Media No 5 2 6 3 0 0 0 16 Studies % 31.3 12.5 37.5 18.8 0.0 0.0 0.0 No 0 1 2 4 0 0 0 Music 7 % 0.0 14.3 28.6 57.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 Nutrition and No 0 1 2 2 1 1 0 7 Food Science % 0.0 14.3 28.6 28.6 14.3 14.3 0.0 Physical No 0 1 3 7 0 0 0 11 Education % 0.0 9.1 27.3 63.6 0.0 0.0 0.0 No 4 3 5 1 3 1 0 Physics 17 % 23.5 17.6 29.4 5.9 17.6 5.9 0.0 Religious No 0 1 5 3 0 0 0 9 Studies % 0.0 11.1 55.6 33.3 0.0 0.0 0.0 No 0 1 7 2 0 0 0 Spanish 10 % 0.0 10.0 70.0 20.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Technology No 0 0 1 3 2 0 0 6 and Design % 0.0 0.0 16.7 50.0 33.3 0.0 0.0 No 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 Turkish 1 % 0.0 100.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

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Leavers’ Destinations

Year 14 Leavers Destinations 2019 (101 pupils)

Higher Education 78 Further Education 7 Gap Year 11 Internship 4 Scholarship 1

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Curriculum 2018-19

The school curriculum is designed to provide the broadest possible choice of subjects and experience for pupils who can benefit from them.

In Year 8, pupils study the following subjects – English, Mathematics, French, Geography, History, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Art, Home Economics, Technology & Design, Personal Development, Physical Education, Religious Studies, Latin, Music, Drama, ICT, Employability and Citizenship.

In Year 9, pupils continue with the same subjects but are also introduced to Spanish and German.

In Year 10, pupils may choose to study either German or Spanish and also select two subjects from Home Economics, Technology & Design, Classical Civilisation, Music and Latin whilst continuing with all of their previous subjects. They also had short introductory courses in Business, Computing, Financial Maths, Careers and Critical Thinking.

In Years 11 and 12, pupils prepare for and take their GCSE examinations. All pupils study English Language, English Literature and Mathematics and a modern language (French, German or Spanish). Science options are Biology, Chemistry or Physics or Single Award or Double Award Science. GCSEs are also offered in Art & Design, Business Studies, Child Development, Classical Civilisation, Computer Science, Digital Technology, Drama, Electronics, Food & Nutrition, Further Mathematics, Geography, History, Latin, Leisure, Travel and Tourism. Music, Physical Education, Religious Studies and Technology & Design. Further Mathematics can be taken as a tenth subject.

In Sixth Form, pupils study a minimum of 3 subjects to A level drawn from a list of 25 different subjects. In a very small number of subjects, pupils do not sit an AS qualification, but instead follow a 2 year A level linear qualification. In addition, some pupils follow a course leading to an additional GCSE or an accreditation in Key Skills ICT. Chinese, Philosophy and Young Enterprise are among the other enrichment options available.

The school is fully compliant with the Entitlement Framework at both Key Stage 4 and Post-16.

Throughout Years 8 to 12, classes in Religious Studies are provided for every pupil, but parents who have a conscientious objection may withdraw their children. Every school day includes a collective Act of Worship.

Careers Education is organised by a team of teachers, supplemented by the Careers Officers from the Training and Employment Agency, who provide information and advice for all pupils from Year 10 upwards. As well as Careers classes and interviews, the School has a full programme of special visits and work experience scheme designed to help pupils make informed career choices. All Year 13 pupils participate in a course which deals with interview and communication skills, careers advice and information about tertiary level education. In Year 14 pupils follow an enrichment programme which includes UCAS preparation, talks by visiting speakers from HE, FE and private companies.

Assessment and reporting, for all pupils, includes at least one full session of internal examinations per year followed by a detailed written report, issued via Parent App. In all years, parents also have the opportunity to meet teachers on Parents’ afternoons. 18

A wide range of co-curricular activities is available to all pupils who are encouraged to participate for enjoyment and self-development. In excess of 30 clubs and societies function each year providing for artistic, cultural, sporting and other interests. These include:

Animal House, Athletics, Badminton, Book Club, Breakfast Club, Chemistry Club, Chess, Chinese Club, Choir (Junior/Senior/Chamber), Christian Union, Circuits, Community Service, Computing, Craft Club, Creative Writing, Cricket, Cross-Country, Debating and Current Affairs, Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, Eco Club, Equestrian Events, Film Club, Folk Group, Football, Golf, Gymnastics, Greek as a Treat Club, Hockey, Homework Club, International Club, Junior Drama, Lego Club, Let’s Cook Club, Netball, Orchestra (including Junior Strings and Wind Band), Rugby, Sound and Light, Swimming, Table Tennis and Tennis. Clubs and Societies meet during the school day, after school and in some cases evenings and weekends.

Pupils have many opportunities to extend their subject knowledge through activities beyond the classroom and are encouraged to stretch themselves by entering competitions such as the Chemistry Olympiad, Bar Mock Trial, Mock European Council, UK Maths Challenge, Sentinus Research and Development, NI Schools and Concern Debates and Sutton Trust and Oxbridge Summer Schools. Pupils studying Business Studies are encouraged to become involved with the Young Enterprise Scheme, setting up and running a mini company. Our companies have enjoyed considerable success in this area, frequently reaching the Northern Ireland Finals.

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Pastoral Care, Safeguarding and SEN

Our Pastoral Care System is an essential part of our school curriculum and there is a close working relationship between the academic and pastoral structures in the school.

The Vice Principal heads up the pastoral care of pupils within the School, working alongside the three Heads of Key Stage and seven Heads of Year. Heads of Year in turn work with a team of Form Tutors from Year 8 to Year 14 who support and work with the pupils throughout their time at Belfast High School, focusing on the personal, social and academic development of each pupil.

The Safeguarding Team, consisting of the Vice Principal, Senior Teachers, Principal, Chairman of the Board of Governors and designated Governor, takes responsibility for all safeguarding and child protection issues within the school. Belfast High School has a fully qualified school nurse who provides medical care for all pupils. In addition, a counsellor from an external agency provides further support for pupils through weekly sessions. Belfast High School also works closely with professional external support agencies to support our pupils.

Our experienced Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator works to ensure that those pupils with additional educational needs receive the appropriate support. All pupils registered with additional educational needs are provided with an Individual Learning Plan. Classroom Assistants work alongside subject teachers to provide additional individual support for pupils.

Support is also provided by Form Prefects and Sixth Form Mentors who assist individual pupils requiring additional subject-specific or general organisational support. Prefects also assist younger pupils through various extended roles which enhances the extra-curricular provision throughout school.

Weekly assemblies promote a sense of community and provide one way to celebrate our pupil achievements. These are led by staff and pupils and encourage engagement with a range of social, moral and spiritual themes. We aim to foster positive attitudes, individual responsibility and respect for the whole school community. These themes are also explored through weekly Personal Development classes delivered by the Form Tutors and link closely with the Careers Information Advice and Guidance, Citizenship, Employability and Health Education Programmes.

We are committed to creating a caring and supportive community built on positive relationships and open communication between pupils, staff and home. Parents/guardians are encouraged to contact the relevant Head of Year at any time if they have concerns on any aspects related to their child’s education at Belfast High School.

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Security of Pupils, Staff and Premises

The entire school site is secured by fencing with access gates which are open and closed at pre- arranged times by the Facilities staff.

Access to the school buildings is controlled by magnetically locking outer doors which can be opened at set times and at other times opened by key fobs. The buildings are opened and locked by the Facilities staff at agreed times.

Teaching staff are on duty before the start of school, at break time and lunch time and in the bus park at the end of school, with responsibility for supervising pupils.

All visitors must report to reception on arrival and are required to carry a visitor pass at all times.

All pupils are registered during form time and every lesson throughout the day.

All internal areas of the School are accessible for all pupils following the installation of a lift in the Music Department which was completed in December 2018.

Upgrading access to the front entrance will be the next priority, working with the Department of Education.

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Links with the Community

The School uses a variety of means to facilitate a continuing process of consultation with parents through face to face meetings with teachers and on-line surveys for each year group. Parents, Governors and local primary school principals receive the quarterly newsletter electronically in addition to a range of information shared through Parent App and official social media channels.

Links with the wider community are also developed through the School’s involvement in the Newtownabbey Learning Community.

The following departments have consistent and sustained interaction with statutory agencies, educational institutions, local political representatives, local, national and international businesses:

Careers, Pastoral Care an SEN, Sciences and Technology, Business Studies, PE, Music, History, Politics and Citizenship.

The Community Services group co-ordinates pupil fundraising in support of a wide range of causes, with thousands of pounds regularly raised by way of special events and donated to a variety of charities.

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Financial Statement

Secondary Revenue Account 2018-19

INCOME

Department of Education Funding 4,242,538 Voluntary Contributions 74,547 Other Funding 119,448 4,436,533

EXPENDITURE

Teaching Staff 3,053,390 (68.82%) Non-Teaching Staff 855,633 (19.29%) Ground Rent, Water, Insurance, Fuel, Electricity, Cleaning 183,979 (4.15%) Miscellaneous 132,148 (2.99%) Maintenance 83,734 (1.89%) Examination Fees 83,848 (1.89%) Pupils’ Textbooks and Stationery 72,470 (1.63%) Sports, Games and Travelling 20,777 (0.47%) 4,485,977

Net Deficit (49,444)

Capital Fees Account 2018-19

INCOME

Capital Fees 72,920 Capital Grant Income 476,869 Other Capital Income 0 Total Income 549,789

EXPENDITURE

Interest on Loans (41,626) Depreciation (179,801) Bad Debt Provision (2,480) (223,907)

Net Surplus 325,882

General Revenue Account 2018-19

INCOME

Gift Aid on Voluntary Receipts 13,661

EXPENDITURE 0

Net Surplus 13,661 23

School Development Days 2018-19

Date Key Focus Staff Meetings - GDPR, SEN, development planning, PRSD objectives, Parent App training, Anaphylaxis training 26 October 2018 Departmental Meetings – targets and strategies to support pupils. Teaching and Learning working groups. Head of Year Meetings – Data, Mentoring. Staff Meeting – safeguarding update, staff training evaluations. SIMS training. 4 January 2019 Departmental Meetings – GCSE and A Level booklets, reporting, school website, Asset Register. Teaching and Learning working groups. Middle Leader meetings. 21 January 2019 Departmental meetings - Analysis of winter exam results, actions for improvement. SEN review and update. 18 February 2019 Mid-year review of departmental/post-holder, key stage action plans. Preparation for third progress update to parents. Teaching and Learning working groups. 7 June 2019 Departmental meetings – review of actions plans, evaluation of implementation of new GCSE and A Level specifications.

School Policies

School policies are available on request from the Principal’s PA or can be accessed on the school website.

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