We Would Love to See You at Woodlands. “The ‘To the Moon’ Project Made Me Feel Very Happy to Be Joining a School Where People Are So Creative and Positive

SCHOOL PROSPECTUS 2021 We would love to see you at Woodlands. “The ‘To The Moon’ project made me feel very happy to be joining a school where people are so creative and positive. The staff are all positive and interested in your work.” Scarlett-Rose – Year 7 student

2 Contents

4 Welcome 22 Our Expectations 6 Our Vision and Values 24 Care and Guidance 8 Curriculum Learning and Outcomes 26 School Uniform and PE Kit 10 Location and Facilities 29 Extra Curricular Activities 12 Enhancing Learning 31 Contacts 15 From Primary to Woodlands 16 Case Study 18 Admissions Policy 20 Teaching and Learning

3 Welcome

At Woodlands we pride ourselves on the warm and friendly atmosphere of the school. Relationships are important and our aim is to ensure that every student feels safe and happy. We strive to provide the best for them and believe that every young person deserves the chance to feel successful at school.

Our motto, ‘Aspire and Achieve’, sums up our hopes and expectations for every student who is part of our school community. We want all of our students to excel and recognise that, for this to happen, they must aspire to achieve ambitious goals and work hard to reach these. But, we know that having aspiration can be tough; after all, if you dream big, there is a chance that you might not always reach your goal. This is why we are here as well-qualified and committed staff to both support and challenge all young people to aspire, to dream of what might lie ahead and to work hard to make an ambitious goal possible.

When aspiration and hard work are combined, people achieve amazing things. That is what we strive for at Woodlands: to see every student aspire to reach or exceed their potential and work hard towards that goal. In turn they will receive excellent teaching and support to achieve it and to feel a sense of self-worth and pride in doing so. We want our students to be good citizens, demonstrating leadership, awareness of global issues, regard for others and courage when faced with challenge.

Our success is built on a strong partnership between students, parents/carers, staff and governors; a partnership which flourishes in an atmosphere of mutual trust and respect.

You will see on page 6 how ‘Aspire and Achieve’ is woven in to the fabric of our school through our vison, values and aims that everyone, students, parents/carers, staff and governors have contributed to. It is a touchstone for how we want to be as a community and is under constant review to maintain this focus.

We are lucky to be a thriving school with a growing intake, a broad curriculum and are proud to provide superb extra-curricular opportunities in sports, technology and the creative and performing arts as well as possessing tremendous facilities. This continues through to A level where our sixth form gives the opportunity for further study in preparation for university or apprenticeship.

If you would like to know more, take a good look at this prospectus, visit our website or speak to those who know us best – our students and parents/carers – and visit us, at the moment through our online virtual Open Evening, to find out for yourself and get a feel for what Allestree Woodlands School is all about.

Gemma Penny Headteacher

4 5 Our Vision: Aspire & Achieve

Enabling aspiration and achievement for all students through delivery of a knowledge-rich curriculum underpinned by our CORE values.

CORE Values:

Courage – to be brave in the face of challenge Optimism – to look for solutions and see positives Regard – to care for and be kind to others and yourself Endeavour – to work hard and persevere to achieve one’s full potential

6 Our School 1 A refusal to accept discrimination; promotion of cultural diversity, British We are an inclusive secondary school in north values and the acceptance of difference. Derby for over 1300 students aged 11-18 with 1 A school community including (but not 1 a broad and balanced curriculum limited to) students, staff, parents, carers in years 7-11. and alumni that celebrates success for all, 1 a wide educational offer in years 12-13. where all voices are heard, fostering a 1 a great range of extra-curricular sense of pride and belonging. opportunities in sports, technology 1 Aspiring to lead by example in our care for and the creating and performing arts. the environment and move towards being a 1 excellent facilities and outdoor space. carbon neutral school. 1 provision for those with additional needs 1 Broad engagement, partnership and including an enhanced resource facility for collaboration within the school and across the hearing impaired. the community including with other schools, employers, parents and carers. What does this look like? 1 The school of choice for the families in our 1 People who are inspired, dream big and are catchment and wider community. self-motivated to strive to achieve their best 1 Across all subjects, students including Enablers those who are disadvantaged and those 1 Safeguarding – we are committed to with Special Educational Needs & safeguarding, promoting the welfare of our Disabilities progress in line with national students and expect all our staff, governors averages or better. and volunteers to share this commitment. 1 A regularly reviewed, inspiring curriculum 1 Staff – we aim to have the best possible that is relevant to our students and society, teaching staff, support staff, leaders, encouraging them to expand their horizons. governors and volunteers to enable our 1 Wide enriching experiences within students to achieve their full potential. and beyond the classroom, leading to 1 Relationships – a clear understanding of personal growth. expectations, consistent implementation 1 A thriving sixth form integrated into supported and maintained by all. the school community. 1 Wider community – engaged and 1 Students well equipped for their next steps supportive parents and carers with effective after Allestree Woodlands School. two-way communication. 1 A professional learning community 1 Facilities & Financial responsibility – where staff are supported to develop buildings, IT, website and subject specific continuously their expertise and skill. facilities that enable the curriculum and wider development of our students within a 1 A climate that encourages balanced and controlled budget. personal wellbeing and good mental & physical health, encouraging Adopted by the Governing Board July 2020. positive relationships with support structures including peer mentoring.

7 Curriculum, Learning and Outcomes at Woodlands

At Woodlands, we have a wide range of subject specialists Year 11 GCSE 9 – 1 Results 2020

that allow us to deliver a breadth of subjects across the Standard different year groups. We deliver lessons drawn from a well Pass sequenced curriculum that builds on knowledge and skills 9 – 4 % over time. To this end, students’ learning expectations are Art 85 high. We expect all our students to show endeavour and a Biology 96.1 positive attitude by working hard both in school and at home. Business Studies 78.9 At Woodlands, students will be taught a broad range of Chemistry 94.1 subjects that incorporate an academic curriculum with the Computing 73.3 arts and sports. We are committed to delivering a knowledge- D&T 57.7 rich curriculum that has a focus on key subject knowledge which prepares students for their future success. We also Drama 75.9 incorporate elements of our CORE values into our wider English Language 76.3 focus on personal development and believe that if students English Literature 79.1 can develop courage, optimism, regard and endeavour, that these principles will set them up for a successful future. Food & Nutrition 71.4 French 80.5 We are proud of our attainment at Woodlands, where our Geography 79.2 students achieve a high percentage of grade 4s and above German 61.5 across the range of subjects: History 66.4 Maths 76.4 Music 76.9 PE 76.8 Physics 95 RE 78.7 Science (Combined Trilogy) 56.9 Spanish 54.1 Creative Media 76.9 Engineering 31.3 Health & Social Care 76.2

8 Home Learning

At Woodlands school, SCHOOL LEARNING we call any piece of work 1 Teacher demos that is being completed and ‘having a go’ at home ‘home learning’. 1 Learning This could be a piece of new content work set by the teacher, 1 Revisiting watching an educational prior content LEA OOL RNI H NG SC video, completing an 1 Questions

answered online quiz or revisiting

notes from a lesson. 1 Support with

All these type of your learning activities are designed HOME LEARNING to build on what a 1 Microsoft Teams student has been 1 Re-reading taught – we call this your notes HO G the home learning/school ME LEARNIN 1 Revisiting and learning cycle. self-checking 1 Video sessions on BBC bitesize, National Oak Academy Assessment at Woodlands

At Woodlands, we assess our students’ knowledge on a regular basis. We do this through a range of methods such as quizzes, quick fire tests and questioning on a lesson-by-lesson basis. These are designed to both inform the teacher so they can adapt their teaching and support individual students and to enable students to understand their learning needs. In addition to this, we also set end of unit and year assessments that monitor student performance over a longer period time. This will inform students, parents and carers about what progress is being made and help us to direct our support where needed.

Keeping you informed

We believe that a positive partnership between parent, school and student is the key to success. It is, therefore, important to us that we are able to keep our parents and carers fully informed. As a result, parents and carers will receive a full subject report once a year and will be updated on their child’s progress as a summary report three times a year. In addition to this, parents and carers will be invited to form and subject consultation evenings to discuss their child’s progress directly with their subject teachers and their form tutors.

9 Location and Facilities A beautiful and functional space for everyone joining Woodlands.

We have wonderful, modern facilities including A high quality learning environment is very science laboratories, specialist classrooms, music important to us, and we strive to maintain our rooms, drama studio, technology rooms and an grounds, buildings and facilities to high standards. Atrium with Café. In addition we have a modern sports hall, fitness All the classrooms are spacious with good natural suite, swimming pool, two floodlit all-weather light and equipped to a very high standard across pitches, extensive sports fields and state-of-the- all our curriculum areas. We are constantly art theatre facilities – all of which we also use upgrading our ICT provision and further enhance to support our partner primary schools and the our teaching and learning with a well-stocked surrounding community. library, staffed by dedicated library staff within the Learning Resource Centre.

Our school is named Woodlands for a reason – we are surrounded by trees and green spaces and are fortunate to have extensive outdoor spaces for students to play and relax.

10 A beautiful and functional space for everyone joining Woodlands.

11 Enhancing Learning

Curriculum Wellbeing Centre We believe that every student should We care about the mental health of our have access to the best curriculum on students and have a dedicated safeguarding offer. At Woodlands, that is underpinned team available to help with concerns. In 2019, by a belief that knowledge of a range of we opened our Wellbeing Centre as a safe subjects is vital. We want our students place that can be accessed if a young person to be confident, well-informed young is worried or needs someone to talk to. people who can participate fully in their Our team of Mental Health Ambassadors world as adults. Our academic curriculum are trained Sixth Form students who can be is enhanced by having specialist teachers a friendly face and will listen to concerns. who are passionate about their subjects They are trained to refer to an adult from the and expert in their field. We have a safeguarding team when necessary. thriving creative arts department which offers art, music and drama. This year, Catering we won the Music Mark Award for Our modern student dining facilities are our music curriculum offer. We are ably managed by a fully qualified chef also fortunate to have excellent sports who provides rich, varied and healthy food facilities, including our recently renovated options each and every day of the school year. swimming pool meaning that students This expertise is also transferred to many of have access to the full range of sport. our students who enjoy studying catering and who increasingly provide splendid hospitality at many school events.

12 SEND We believe that every child and their family matters. Therefore the inclusion of pupils identified as having Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) in our school community is fundamental to the diversity and richness of our school. Our whole- school inclusive ethos, underpinned by our CORE values, reflects a genuine belief that all children, no matter their starting point, will feel included and inspired to achieve their full potential. The school also seeks to develop pupil’s independence to foster a life-long love of learning. Woodlands has a large team of dedicated, experienced and highly qualified staff who support our SEND pupils. We are immensely proud to be Derby City’s Enhanced Resource (ER) for Deaf and Hearing Impaired students. If you have any questions related to SEND provision, please do not hesitate to contact the school’s SEND team by calling 01332 551921 or emailing [email protected].

13 14 From Primary to Woodlands

We all remember how daunting it was to move Common Transfer Days from primary to secondary school! At such an It is intended that towards the end of the summer important time we pay careful attention to the term, before transferring to Woodlands, all new needs of our new children and we build on students will spend three full days at Woodlands. the good education they have received at their They will have the opportunity to meet their future primary school. Every effort is made to make Form Tutor and Head of House. Through the the change as smooth as possible. “To The Moon” transition project they will find We have a strong programme throughout the their bearings and get to know what will be year to enable new and existing parents to meet their new learning environment the following with staff and we place importance on the role of September. The aim of the three days is to give the form tutor as a link between school and home. a substantial experience of life at Woodlands, In order to make the transfer to secondary and build on their key qualities of courage, education as easy as possible for your child, optimism, regard and endeavour as they prepare consultation takes place between the staff of the to begin their secondary education. primary schools and ourselves. In addition your child will be involved in the following transfer programme: New Intake Evening Event This information event, for children transferring to Primary School Visits us and their parents/carers, will form part of the Our staff liaise with primary schools to facilitate Common Transfer Days. This will take place as an a smooth transition and determine appropriate in-person or virtual event, as circumstances allow. support for new students. We also create opportunities for in-person or virtual visits to meet the new students, as circumstances allow.

“The transition activities reassured me about starting at Woodlands.” Libby – Year 7 student

15 Case Study

This creates an atmosphere where students go “What was the beyond the surface level of their subjects and begin best thing about to push each other academically. I found myself learning almost as much from my classmates as being at Woodlands? the teaching staff, because we began to develop strong opinions which we proactively debated in Realising how class. The biggest difference for me personally though, was that I found an immediate goal to well prepared I focus on. With university only two years away, was to study at a I felt like I had a blank slate and a manageable time window to push myself and get the grades top five university” I needed to progress. Being in close proximity to Year 13s was helpful in this respect; I was able Tom Lewsley, former Allestree to learn from them throughout the university Woodlands School and Sixth Form application process. This served me well when it student, graduated with a First Class was my turn the following year.

Honours Degree in Politics from the What did you find difficult? University of Warwick. After leaving I remember that the academic step up from GCSE university Tom went to work for a to AS Level was significant. Perhaps not so much from a content perspective, but certainly in terms Swiss Investment Bank in the of working style and how you are expected to City of London. He now works in contribute. The first term in Year 12 was all about their New York office in Manhattan. adjusting to smaller class sizes, contributing more actively in discussions and providing more thoughtful and analytical written and verbal responses. The Why did you do your A Levels at Woodlands? good news is that all your peers are going through In many ways, completing my A levels at the same process and collaborate actively to Woodlands was the obvious choice for me. I lived bring each other up to speed. The other key to a short walk from school and had already studied overcoming these challenges is having a smart in the main school for five years. Perhaps most and knowledgeable teacher who understands importantly though, I knew that with Woodlands your needs throughout the process. I can say with I would have access to knowledgeable teaching confidence that the teaching staff at Woodlands staff, a solid support network, and a track record of provide effective support, whilst continuing to push sending students to good universities. I had seen you to the academic levels required. older students make the step into A level studies successfully and this gave me a level of comfort How did Woodlands prepare you for university? that I could follow a similar path. After completing my A levels, I enrolled at the University of Warwick to study a degree in Politics. How was it different from the main school? Given Warwick’s position as a top five University, Even as part of the main school I had a sense I always had a slight concern that I might end up that A level students were treated differently. being ‘bottom of the class’ in my new environment. Everybody enjoyed having more independence Soon after joining however, these concerns and being trusted to manage their ‘personal vanished and I realized just how well prepared I study periods’, but in reality the changes are was. I found that many of my peers at university more fundamental. Class sizes are smaller and had been taught the content required to pass their students have all opted into a small number of A level exams, rather than how to use a set of core subjects which they are passionate about. problem solving skills to adapt to the task at hand.

16 At Woodlands I was exposed to a balance between these approaches. Towards the end of Year 13, teachers often set us challenging problems that were ‘beyond the standard required for A level students’. I didn’t quite believe it until I first arrived at university to study a completely new subject. Without any content knowledge to fall back on, I realised just how important these core skills are for succeeding in unfamiliar environments. In this respect, Woodlands prepared me incredibly well.

What was University like for you? Overall, a fantastic experience which has opened so many doors. Warwick is made up of 25% international students, so I met people from all over the world and from a wide range of backgrounds. After graduating, everybody spread out across the globe and I found myself with an amazing network of friends across geographies. Three years is too much to cover here, but I had an opportunity to test myself against intelligent people, to try new sports and societies and to work for a range of exciting companies. I can’t recommend it enough.

What advice would you give the students of today? I think my advice would change depending on where you are in the process. For A levels, it’s all about working hard academically and focusing on the immediate goal of getting into a good university. Start looking at your options early on and work out what you need to achieve in order to succeed. You can’t aim too high, so don’t rule anything out in your first year. Once you’re at university, it becomes about getting involved in as much as possible. Meet people, build your network and apply for work experience and internship positions starting in your first year – otherwise you are already a year behind other proactive students. I found the easiest way was to find someone who had been through it all before and learn from their experience, these people always have helpful advice and offer a constant reminder that your goals are achievable.

17 Admissions Policy

Allestree Woodlands School is an Academy 3. Other children living in the normal area at the School (11-18) with enhanced resource facilities for time of admission. hearing impaired students. It does not select on the basis of ability. 4. Children who do not live in the normal area served by the school but who have brothers Standard Admissions Number: 240 or sisters attending the school at the time of their admission. Brothers and sisters are Applications for a place at Allestree Woodlands classed as having one or both natural parents School should be made by stating the school as in common, are related by a parent’s marriage a preference on the common application form or are adopted or fostered. Brothers and sisters available from Derby City Education Authority. must be living at the same address. This common application form must be returned to Derby City Council - not the school, by the 5. A child with a parent/carer who is employed at closing date. Allestree Woodlands School

All parents/carers will be notified regarding their 6. Other children whose parents have stated application for a place by Derby City Council. Allestree Woodlands School as a preference on Where applications exceed the number of places the common application form. available the following criteria are applied by the Governing Body Admissions Committee 7. Children whose parents stated Allestree in the order set out below to decide which Woodlands School as a preference on the students to admit: common application form but did not return the form to Derby City Education Authority 1. A ‘looked after child’ or a child who was by the closing date. previously looked after but immediately after being looked after became subject to an In categories 2 to 5, when choices have to be adoption, residence, or special guardianship made between children satisfying the same order. A looked after child is a child who is criteria, children living nearest to the school, (a) in the care of a local authority, or measured by a straight line between their (b) being provided with accommodation residence and the school, have priority. by a local authority in the exercise of their In category 7, places will be allocated in the social services functions (see the definition in same order of priority as for categories 2 to 5. section 22(1) of the Children Act 1989). Where children in category 7 have equal priority, places will be allocated to those living nearest to 2. Children who are both living in the normal the school, measured by a straight line between area served by the school and have brothers the home address and the school using the or sisters still attending the school at the National Ordinance Survey Set Points. time of their admission. Brothers and sisters are classed as having one or both natural Note: The Governing Body Admissions parents in common, are related by a parent’s Committee reserves the right to verify marriage or are adopted or fostered. Brothers information and, if misrepresentation is and sisters must be living at the same address. confirmed, refuse or cancel the place.

18 Fair Access Local Authorities are required to have ‘Fair Access Protocols’ in order to make sure those unplaced children who live in the Local Authority, especially the most vulnerable, are offered a place at a suitable school as quickly as possible. This includes admitting children above the published admissions number to schools that are already full.

Right of Appeal Should the Governing Body Admissions Committee be unable to offer places to all students who have applied the parents/guardians will have the right to appeal to -

The Independent Appeals Panel, c/o Allestree Woodlands School, Blenheim Drive, Allestree, Derby DE22 2LW

Parents will be given this information in the letter informing them of a Governing Body Admissions Committee’s decision regarding places.

Waiting List If the number of applications exceeds the number of places available a waiting list will be established and maintained until the end of September by Derby City Council using the above criteria.

Applications Made Outside of the Normal Round of Admissions An application for a place can be made at any point during the school year by stating Allestree Woodlands School as a preference on the common application form obtained from and returned to Derby City Council. The Governing Body Admissions Committee will consider the application against the above criteria and a place will be offered by Derby City Council and/or the school if one is available.

Approved by the Governing Body of Allestree Woodlands School.

19 Teaching and Learning

We will pursue the school’s commitment to equal opportunities policies in the belief that all young people are entitled to equality of access to the curriculum throughout their time at Woodlands.

Years 7–9 GCSE (Years 10–11) The first three years at Woodlands are the years Year 10 and 11 students follow a core curriculum for establishing a strong and broad foundation of English, Mathematics, Science, PSHCE and PE. for further study. Students are taught in a In addition to these subjects students will choose variety of different ways, dependent on their from further GCSE courses including Art, Business needs and abilities. Studies, Computing, Creative Media, Design & Technology, Drama, Engineering, Food & Nutrition, The curriculum at KS3 includes the CORE subjects French, Geography, German, Health & Social of Mathematics, English and Science; and the Care, History, Philosophy & Ethics, PE, and Work FOUNDATION subjects of: Related Learning. 1 Art Students will be placed in the most appropriate 1 Design and Technology teaching group for each subject, although 1 Drama opportunity exists for moving from one group to 1 Geography another, depending on the progress made. We are very focussed on ensuring that our curriculum 1 History is flexible, broad and balanced to the current and 1 Information and future lives of our students. Communications Technology (ICT) 1 Modern Foreign Languages The Sixth Form (Years 12–13) (French, German or Spanish) A wide and exciting range of Advanced Level 1 Music courses are available in our Sixth Form and we 1 Physical Education (PE) have a separate prospectus available on request. 1 Personal, Social, Health and Citizenship Education (PSHCE) including Careers 1 Religious Education

20 Planning for life after Woodlands Supporting and – Further Education and careers Developing our Students We understand how important it is that our We strive to ensure our students are healthy, students are well informed about the options well-rounded, tolerant and confident citizens. open to them after school. Using a wide variety Throughout their time at Woodlands all students of resources including outside speakers, industry take part in activities and learning to support these links, and careers services, we support them to aims. Some of this will take place in curriculum become informed about their future choices. areas such as Physical Education (PE), Religious Careers education is part of the ongoing PSHCE Education (RE) and Personal, Social, Health and programme and students also have the opportunity Citizenship Education (PSHCE); but we also to meet qualified careers advisors as they progress hold regular assemblies where at least once through school. We also host a Curriculum and a week students gather together for a formal Careers Evening for parents/carers and students, school assembly often taken by senior staff and where each curriculum area provides an exhibition outside speakers. These assemblies engender of its work and syllabuses for Year 10 and 11. a community spirit, encourage achievement and This also provides an opportunity for parents/ offer an opportunity to promote shared values carers, friends of the school, representatives from and social cohesion. industry and commerce to present occupations In the often sensitive areas of relationship and e.g. ‘Work in Engineering’, ‘Work in Finance’, sex education, our staff and governors believe ‘Working with People’, ‘Working in the Arts’. that all children are entitled to responsible and We think this helps our students get a truly broad relevant information. The teaching in this school taste of the diverse and exciting careers options seeks to be complementary to, and supportive of, available to them. It also helps them to see the the role of parents/carers and also seeks to reflect implications of their Year 10 option choices. the range of cultural, religious and moral ideals One of the most interesting and exciting held by families. Importantly, it should be shared opportunities happen in Year 10, when all of enterprise between home and school. our students enter into the world of work with the school’s ‘Work Experience’ module in the Summer Term. Then our Year 11 students are challenged by our industry partners on a ‘World of Work Day’ with real interview experience and job application information.

Students with special educational needs Enhanced resource facility At Woodlands we have a skilled Enhanced Learning Faculty which available for students with supports our students with special educational and emotional needs. hearing impairment Most of this support takes place in the classroom, primarily by A facility where highly Teaching Assistants. Where appropriate, students undertake specific qualified Teachers of programmes to support Literacy, Numeracy and learning in other areas. the Deaf and Communication If you would like more information, our Special Needs Policy based on Support Assistants work the Code of Practice is available on request. closely with these students.

21 Our Expectations

At Woodlands we love to celebrate the success 1 Everyone shows regard of our students. This is done in many ways, but – treat others as you wish to be treated usually through the awarding of CORE points. 1 Positive attitudes Students are awarded CORE points for showing – everyone follows instructions Courage, Optimism, Regard and Endeavour in the 1 Everyone to have the courage classroom and around school. Students will be to do what they think is right presented with certificates, badges and postcards. Students’ positive attitudes, behaviours and 1 No mobile device use without achievements are recognised in assemblies, on permission from your teacher school displays and on our website. There are also On the rare occasions when expectations are opportunities for students to earn CORE points for not met, staff will hold restorative conversations taking part in House activities and competitions. with the student with the intention of helping We encourage all students to get involved and look them to make better decisions and improve forward to sharing their success with them. their behaviour in the future. Sanctions may The school provides an environment where be applied if students do not respond positively students can learn effectively and feel safe. to these conversations. Our behaviour procedures link directly to our We do not accept any form of intolerance or CORE values and focus on building good derogatory comments including bullying, racism, relationships, reconciliation and clarity. homophobia, religious intolerance or abusive The behaviour system has six key expectations: language. When it occurs, this behaviour will be challenged and actions taken to prevent it 1 Everyone to arrive on time from occurring again. with all of their equipment 1 Everyone shows endeavour Working in close partnership with parents is – get the most from every lesson crucial in ensuring our high standards and expectations are upheld.

22 Woodlands Expects

Everyone to arrive on time with all of their equipment.

Everyone shows endeavour – get the most from every lesson.

Everyone shows regard – treat others as you wish to be treated.

Positive attitudes – everyone follows instructions.

Everyone to have the courage to do what they think is right.

No mobile device use without permission from your teacher.

23 Care and Guidance

When students arrive at Woodlands they become forms of abuse, our Headteacher is obliged to members of a House Tutor group. The Head of follow the Child Protection procedures established House and Tutor have overall responsibility for the by Derby City Council and inform Social Services day to day life of the students. Usually the form of any concerns. group stays together for the full five years. The school has access to the advice and services Medical Support of the Educational Psychology service and a Illness/accident within School School’s Medical Officer. The Education Welfare Woodlands provides First Aid support. Students who Service works closely with the school in order to fall ill at school or who are involved in an accident, ensure good attendance and to offer advice and are attended to by a First Aid trained member of staff. support to families when a student has problems If your child is feeling unwell they will be given with attending school. some rest time to see if they are then fit to return If you have an enquiry concerning your child’s to class. If they have sustained a minor injury then welfare at school it should, in the first instance, First Aid treatment will be given. If illness or injury be communicated to your child’s Form Tutor indicates your child is unable to return to class we and Head of House. will contact you and ask you to collect your son or It is important that this is the first point of daughter. In emergencies, an ambulance will be contact because your enquiry is dealt with called and you will be contacted. We are unable by those members of staff who know you and to send a member of staff to accompany your your child best. child, so it is essential that we are able to contact a parent/carer or nominated person to travel with, or Child Protection meet the ambulance at the hospital. At Woodlands we take the protection of children Please ensure that if any of your contact numbers in our care very seriously. All adults working in the change that you inform us in writing. Please note school are police checked through the Criminal that we are not allowed to dispense medication Records Bureau. e.g. Paracetamol. Parents should be aware that the school is Additional Medical Services required to take any reasonable action to ensure The school has access to a medical health team the safety of its students. In cases where the and in special circumstances can arrange for your school has reason to be concerned that a child child to have an appointment with a doctor or nurse. may be subject to ill treatment, neglect or other The medical health team also carry out the usual school health checks and immunisation programmes. The ‘New Intake Day’ really helped me feel that I was not alone. Alice – Year 7 student

24 School Complaints Procedure Charging and Remissions Policy Where you have concerns about the school The Governing Body recognises the valuable contribution that the wide range of additional activities, including curriculum or other matters these will be clubs, trips and residential experience can make towards discussed, as far as possible, with informal contact students’ personal and social education. and meetings with the appropriate teachers, senior The Governing Body aims to promote and provide staff or the Headteacher. It is hoped that your such activities both as part of a broad and balanced curriculum for the students of the school and as concerns can be resolved speedily and amicably. additional optional activities.

Where a particular difficulty cannot be resolved a Charges complaint can be registered with the Chairman of The Governing Body reserves the right to make a charge the Governing Body who can be contacted via the in the following circumstances for activities organised by the school: school. The school follows a complaints procedure School journeys in school hours – The board and lodging that follows local and national guidelines. element of residential activities deemed to take place within If you would like a copy of our complaints school hours. Parents are required to meet the full cost except those who receive income support / family credit. procedures please contact the school office Activities outside school hours – The full cost to each or access it on our website – student of activities deemed to be optional extras taking www.woodlands.derby.sch.uk place outside school hours.

Individual music tuition – The cost to the students for providing individual music tuition provided by outside tutors. vCharging in kind – The cost of materials, ingredients, Allestree Woodlands School is equipment (or the provision of them by parents) for committed to promoting a safe and practical subjects. The Governing Body may charge for healthy workplace culture, and will ingredients and materials or require them to be provided if the parents have indicated in advance that they wish to take a positive approach towards own the finished product. Parents/carers will be expected tackling the problem of bullying and to replace or reimburse the school for lost items or damage harassment at work. to school property. Examination fees The School will not tolerate violence, If you wish your child to be entered for a prescribed public threats of violence or abusive examination for which they have not been prepared by the language or behaviour towards our school, the Governing Body may make a charge for the cost of entering them for the examination, as they can for staff (including Governors and others entries to non-prescribed examinations whether or not who provide services to and for the prepared by the school.

School). If this happens legal action On occasions parents/carers and students may elect to re-sit will be taken. a public examination or to request that an examination paper be re-marked. Under these circumstances a charge will be made to parents in order to cover all costs incurred.

If a student fails without good reason to complete the examination requirements for any public examination for which the school has paid (or is liable to pay) an entry fee, then the Governing Body may recover the fee from the parent/carer.

General The Governing Body may, from time to time, amend the categories of activity for which a charge may be made. Nothing in this policy statement precludes the Governing Body from inviting parents to make a voluntary contribution towards the cost of providing education for students.

Remissions If you are in receipt of income support or family credit, the Governing Body will remit, in full, the cost of board and lodging for any residential activity that it organises for the student if the activity is deemed to take place within the school hours or where it forms part of the syllabus for a prescribed public examination or the National Curriculum.

School Uniform and PE Kit

ALL STUDENTS AT WOODLANDS WILL WEAR SCHOOL UNIFORM

Boy’s Standard Uniform Physical Education Kit Tailored Plain black of full length (no jeans, chinos Outdoor Kit Trousers or tight-fitting trousers) worn around *Red rugby shirt (boys) the waist with plain black belt if worn *Black ¼ zip top (girls) Shirt Plain white with collar (must be suitable for wearing a tie and long enough to Black shorts (boys) be worn tucked in) *Black Skort (girls) *Tie School House tie Red knee-length football/hockey socks (boys/girls) Pullover Plain black fine gauge ‘V’ necked waist Training shoes and football boots (boys) length pullover or cardigan (Optional) Training shoes (Girls do not need to buy boots Footwear Smart leather plain black shoes as hockey is played on the Astroturf pitch) (No trainers, pumps, canvas shoes or boots. No logos) Shin pads for hockey/football Blazer Plain black with School badge Optional Coat Dark coloured coat with small logo only. Tracksuits during winter (at the discretion of PE staff) It must be able to be worn over the blazer. Indoor Kit Hoodies are not acceptable and you will be asked to remove it. White polo shirt (boys/girls) Black shorts (boys/girls) – not cycling/fitness Girl’s Standard Uniform type and not Navy Trousers Plain black tailored trousers of full length White socks (no hipsters, lycra, jeans, leggings or jeggings) with plain black belt if worn Swimming *Skirt School approved skirt with black or Swimming costume or trunks (any colour) flesh coloured tights. (NB. if girls do not Swimming hat wear skirts appropriately we will insist that they wear trousers) Towel for swimming and showers

Blouse Plain white with collar (must be suitable For rugby or hockey all students must wear for wearing a tie and long enough to shin pads and mouth guards – these are be worn tucked in) compulsory in all year groups. If you need *Tie School House tie to be excused because you have a serious illness or injury you must bring a note. Pullover Plain black fine gauge ‘V’ necked waist length pullover or cardigan (Optional) * These items and the School badge can only Footwear Smart leather plain black low heeled shoes be purchased from the school’s OFFICIAL (No stiletto heels, sandals, pumps, uniform supplier, Morleys Schoolwear, who trainers, canvas shoes, boots or Ugg boots) can be contacted via our website. Blazer Plain black with School Badge Hats, hoodies, caps and other headwear Coat Dark coloured coat with small logo only. are not part of school uniform and must It must be able to be worn over the blazer. not be worn. Hoodies are not acceptable and you will be asked to remove it. All items of school wear including PE kit must be labelled with student’s name.

26 Pictured above is the Woodlands School Dress Requirements skirt adopted in 2017. This is the All students will wear school dress when attending school or participating in only skirt that school organised activities (unless advised otherwise) will be accepted and has been Health and Safety issues introduced to Jewellery – Single ear studs, a simple necklace and a single, simple ring only maintain a are acceptable. These must be removed for PE and any other lesson where the consistent and member of staff considers there to be a health and safety risk. appropriate Following guidance issued by Derby City Council Health and Safety Advisors, standard. the wearing of all other jewellery and body piercing is not allowed. Exceptions are made for religious jewellery and items worn for medical reasons. If you fall into this category please inform the school. Body Piercing – A student attending school wearing other jewellery or body piercing will be told to remove the item(s). If the item(s) cannot be removed they may be prevented from attending lessons and you will be contacted. Hair – NO exaggerated hair styles or colours are acceptable. Long hair must be tied back particularly in practical subjects. Makeup – NO makeup should be worn in Years 7, 8 & 9. Makeup for Years 10 – 13 should be discrete. No false nails or nail varnish should be worn.

27 28 Extra Curricular Activities

Woodlands has a wide extra curricular programme Other clubs and groups include: in Sport, Music, Dance, Drama, Technology, and 1 British Sign Language Club Science to name but a few. 1 Chess Club We hold school and inter-house activities including: 1 Drama (House Plays) netball, hockey, rugby, soccer, basketball, athletics, 1 Choir cricket, tennis, swimming and triathlon. Other clubs 1 Sports Clubs including Basketball, Trampoline, include swimming and gymnastics where students Football, Cross Country and Table Tennis have an opportunity to improve their skill level. 1 Folk Groups Students are also encouraged to join outside 1 Jazz band clubs and many achieve area and county standard. 1 Cheerleading/Dance Where possible we arrange trips to demonstrate how working hard can lead to excellence e.g. 1 School Magzazine Wimbledon, Lords, Wembley and Pride Park. 1 Youth Theatre 1 Lego Robots We have extensive local 1 Science Clubs sports club links including: 1 Gardening Club 1 Cooper Netball, Derbyshire Netball Association. 1 Physics Olympiad 1 Woodlands Hockey Club. 1 CANSAT rocket club 1 Quarndon Cricket Club, Allestree Cricket Club 1 Woodlands Tennis Club. Under normal circumstances a wide range of 1 Derby Rugby Club. trips and holidays are arranged in addition to 1 Allestree Juniors Football an annual activities day. These include: 1 Allestree Woodlands Ladies Football 1 Theatre trips 1 Derbyshire TT Association and 1 Student conferences Woodland TT Club 1 Houses of Parliament 1 Derbyshire Junior Badminton Association 1 Annual trips abroad and in the UK Woodlands also provides the facilities to run a 1 Duke of Edinburgh Awards Scheme Swim School. 1 Field trips in sciences and geography

29 30 Headteacher: Mrs G Penny Deputy Headteachers: Mrs R Middleton-Lee Mr S Roe House Teams: Cedar: Miss L Colley and Mrs C McEntee Maple: Mrs E Pitter and Mr D Hammond Oak: Miss H Smith and Mr A Swift Rowan: Mrs H Curr and Mr M Kenny Assistant Headteacher/Head of Sixth Form: Miss C Mills Assistant Head of Sixth Form: Mr A Forsyth Chair of the Governing body: Mr R Travis

The information given in this brochure is as accurate as possible at the time of publication. Any changes will be reported to parents/carers in the school’s newsletter and published on our website. It should not however be assumed that there will not be any changes before, during or after the school year 2021– 2022.

Designed and produced by foxcreate.com

31 “The thing I really like about being at Woodlands? It’s fun and exciting. I am learning new things.” Jake – Woodlands student

Be part of the Woodlands community Go to the school’s website at www.woodlands.derby.sch.uk for information about the school, or for daily updates you can follow us on Twitter @woodlands_derby

ALLESTREE WOODLANDS SCHOOL Blenheim Drive, Allestree, Derby DE22 2LW. Telephone: 01332 551921 Fax: 01332 553869 Email: [email protected] or [email protected]