Saint College

Prospectus 2019 Entry Welcome Prayer of

Saint Ambrose College is a Catholic State Funded Saint Ambrose Independent with a selective intake. As a State Funded School, there are no fees. Saint Ambrose is first and foremost, a Catholic College and a Catholic ethos must exist in our daily life.

Saint Ambrose College is one of twelve schools in England in the Edmund Rice Schools Network and was rated ‘Outstanding’ by both and the Diocese of Shrewsbury upon our last inspections.

In 1940 the De La Salle Brothers of Les Vauxbelet’s College in Guernsey, evacuated the island and re-established their school in our local area. “St Ambrose College” was officially opened in 1942, named after local Bishop Ambrose Moriarty. The De La Salle Brothers returned to Guernsey following the liberation of the Channel Islands and in September 1946, at the request of the Diocese of Shrewsbury, the Christian Brothers took responsibility for St Ambrose College. Whilst today no Christian Brothers teach at St Ambrose College, the charism of the founder of the Christian Brothers, Blessed Edmund Ignatius Rice, Painting of ‘Saint Ambrose as a young man’ is retained at the heart of all that we do. by Sandro Kopp The College is rich in extra-curricular activities with something for everyone. The main team sports are athletics, cricket, rugby and water polo, but there are Lord teach me to seek thee many other sporting activities and clubs available. And reveal thyself to me Boys are actively involved in the liturgical life of the College When I seek thee and develop the Catholic Spirituality through liturgical celebration. All boys have the opportunity to take part in retreats during their College career. For I cannot seek thee There are approximately 1000 boys on the College roll, Unless thou teach me, including more than 200 in the Sixth Form. We are proud Not find thee except to say that most proceed to Russell Group universities and a number to Oxford and Cambridge. thou reveal thyself

We have annual Awards Events, where we celebrate the collective and individual achievements of our boys. Let me seek thee in longing, Let me long for thee in seeking; Please visit our website for further information: Let me find thee in love, www.st-ambrosecollege.org.uk and love thee in finding. J M Keulemans Principal Edmund Rice Education

Evangelisation of the modern World In this College we strive to make real in our lives Saint Ambrose College contributes to the overall mission of the by bringing the Good News of Christ to all and in the World the values of the Gospel of aspects of the life of our school community. We do this in dialogue Jesus Christ. with youth and contemporary culture, thus fulfilling the specific calling of the Congregation of Christian Brothers: “The Evangelisation of youth through the Apostolate of Christian Education”.

Promoting the Spiritual in Gospel We Will... At Saint Ambrose College we encourage an awareness that the fulfilment of human existence lies beyond this world, rejecting a vision of the human person as purely material and temporal. Provide a well-ordered caring environment where self- Here we nurture a ‘living faith’, foster Christian spirituality and educate in Gospel-based values. discipline is emphasised and pupils are enabled to take responsibility for their own actions following a reasoned Building of a Christian Community set of Christian values and principles. We encourage a sense of community in which the quality and care for each other is Christ-inspired, based on mutual respect,self-sacrifice and full respect of the God-given dignity Demand of the pupils the highest possible standards of each person. Our community is one of hard work, kindness whilst supporting them with a system of pastoral care, towards each other, and good humour. which promotes respect for all of the community. We therefore value highly good manners, courtesy and Compassion for those in Need fairness. Blessed Edmund Rice said, “Were we to know the merit and value of only going from one street to another to serve a neighbour for the love of God, we should prize it more than silver and Offer support and guidance for all pupils as they take gold”. At St Ambrose College we show, in the spirit of Edmund, advantage of the wide opportunities offered to them particular love and concern towards the weakest members of within the College, enabling them to make full use of the school community. We also reach out beyond the school in compassion and practical action for the poor and marginalised their talents and so contribute to the good of the whole both locally and internationally. College.

Concern for the Whole Person A Catholic school is distinctive from a secular school in its Seek to develop the College as a vibrant Christian expertise at catering for the needs of the whole pupil. Whilst community where pupils will learn to integrate their we are a grammar school that achieves high academic results, Catholic faith and culture “seeking first the kingdom of we believe in a holistic education and we resist “seduction by God” and enabling them to be “ambassadors of Christ”. shallow indicators of value” (Lydon, 2013). Everything we do here is centred on the balanced and integrated development of our students and staff. We aim for positive development of all We aim to do this together in a spirit of hope and the dimensions of personal growth – religious, moral, intellectual, happiness following the example of Blessed Edmund cultural, physical and social. Rice and under the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the patronage of Our Lady, Help of all Christians. Striving for Excellence We encourage each individual to use his or her talents to the full, whether religious, academic, cultural, physical or social. We pursue high standards in all aspects of teaching, learning and extra-curricular endeavour.

Teaching as a Christian Calling The role of a teacher or member of support staff at an Edmund Rice school is seen as much more than just a job; it is recognised as a vocation, a calling from God and a sharing in the mission of the Catholic Church. The fairness shown towards the pupils is rooted in the love of Jesus spoken of in the Gospels.

Education for Justice We do our utmost to inspire the hearts and minds of our students to care for all God’s creation and to build a more just society; we develop in them the talents for active citizenship and transformational leadership. We stay faithful to the words of Pope Francis who said, “The mission of schools is to develop a sense of truth, of what is good and beautiful”. Above: Christian Brother Congregation leader, Brother Hugh O’Neill Spiritual Life

“And I say to thee, thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my Church.” Liturgy Weekly Mass is celebrated in the Chapel, following which boys have the opportunity to receive the sacrament of Matthew 16:18 reconciliation. On the Feast of St Ambrose and at the end of the academic year, the whole school gathers for the celebration of Mass in the central atrium. Liturgies are also held at key times in the Church year includimg Activities underline the Catholic spirit of the College. Advent and Lent.

All boys have the opportunity to spend time for reflection away from the College. Lenten Appeal All First Year boys enjoy a retreat during their first term. At Lenten time especially, but also throughout the year, we have raised money for charities, including: the Christian Brothers in Sierra Leone, CAFOD, Life, SPUC, the Catholic Children’s Society, Jospice, Chernobyl Further retreats are also arranged as pupils progress through school and older boys are able to assist Children’s Society, St. Joseph’s Family Centre, Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal, Cornerstone, Society of regularly, to help disadvantaged and vulnerable homeless people. African Missions, NSPCC, Francis House and Traidcraft.

In addition, in recent years, the College has formed strong links with SERV, a refuge for asylum seekers Lourdes Pilgrimage which is based in Salford. The Lourdes Pilgrimage from Saint Ambrose joins with the Diocese to help those with sickness or disability, again The College Chapel is a place of sanctity and of quiet, for developing our faith in God. Weekly Mass giving a profoundly deep and lasting experience to those who take part; a privilege for all those involved. This is celebrated in the Chapel, following which boys have the opportunity to receive the sacrament of is an event organised each year with the assistance of our Old Boys who are joined by staff and members of reconciliation. the Sixth Form. Edmund Rice International Sierra Leone There is an ‘Edmund Rice International’ (ERI) group at St Ambrose College. Inspired by the charism, vision and values of Blessed Edmund Rice, ERI is an NGO committed to working for children and young people who are The College is twinned with Saint Ambrose in Sierra Leone. Through charitable works, the College marginalised because of poverty, access to education, legal status, environmental degradation, or involvement is able to provide material and prayerful support to the Christian Brothers in Sierra Leone to help with the re- in armed conflict. ERI works at the international level to promote and protect the rights of children and young equipping of their schools. Saint Ambrose Academy caters for the educational and social welfare of all students people particularly in regard to education. Care for the environment is a value that is embedded in all that from the very poorest of backgrounds. Saint Ambrose College students and staff regularly visit Saint Ambrose we do. The group meets weekly and works closely with the ERI Headquarters in Geneva and held a successful Academy and this ‘Immersion’ experience has the potential, not just to form but to transform the lives of staff advocacy week in March 2018. All pupils have the opportunity to attain the ‘Edmund Rice Award’ each year. and students in both schools. In April 2018, a borehole was successfully drilled at St Ambrose Academy to provide water for drinking and sanitation. The £16 000 needed to fund this project was raised entirely through the efforts and activities of our school community.

Annual visit to Lourdes 2017

Sierra Leone Immersion Trip 2018 Saint Ambrose College annual sponsored walk Admissions Policy 2019 entry Behaviour & Discipline

Please check the school website for all associated admissions documentation. First and foremost St Ambrose is a Catholic College in which Christ is not only at the centre of the College in words and actions but also physically present in the Blessed Sacrament in the College chapel which is at the centre of the building. Oversubscription Criteria 2019 If the number of applicants achieving the required standard for entry exceeds the Published Admissions Number, The College has systems in place which relate to and support the overall objectives of the College and its Mission then the following over-subscription criteria will apply in the following order to decide which pupils to admit. Statement: to provide a well ordered, caring environment where high standards of behaviour, good manners and respect for others are expected. We support these with the Christian values of justice and forgiveness so that 1. Baptised Roman Catholic boys who are designated ‘looked after children’ or ‘previously looked after pupils can see and understand how to live as part of vibrant Christian community. children’ . Boys will be rewarded with house points in a variety of ways for good effort and good behaviour, achievement; 2. Baptised Roman Catholic boys who have a brother attending the school. participation etc. as well as badges and/or ties awarded for sporting, musical or dramatic activities. Words of encouragement and congratulation from a teacher are often given and welcomed by the pupils. The many 3. Baptised Roman Catholic boys whose home postcode falls within a nominated Local Pastoral Area. and various ways in which praise can be given will be done with due respect to the age of the pupils concerned. Details are provided in the list of Nominated Local Pastoral Areas below. The College is very proud of its pupils but in the event of a boy failing to live up to the standards of acceptable 4. Baptised Roman Catholic boys. behaviour, the College will liaise with the pupil and his parents in order to restore good order and check poor behaviour. 5. Other boys who are designated ‘looked after children’ or ‘previously looked after children’. A variety of steps may be taken to address poor behaviour: a word from a teacher; a task to do - written work 6. Baptised Christian boys who have a brother attending the school. or some other activity appropriate to the offence; a boy may be detained for part of his break time, or, for more serious offences the College will communicate with parents and reserves the right to detain the pupil after the end 7. Baptised Christian boys practising in other Christian denominations supported by a minister’s reference of the school day in the form of detention. In rare instances for very serious or persistent offences a temporary confirming that they are a full and active member of the Church . or permanent exclusion from College may be necessary. Further information can be found in the College’s discipline policy. 8. Other boys practising in other Christian denominations supported by a minister’s reference confirming that they are a full and active member of the Church. The College employs a Behaviour Support Mentor who will monitor and assist pupils to ensure their behaviour does not fall short of the expected high standards. 9. Other boys The College requires and welcomes the support of parents in ensuring their sons behave appropriately at all Nominated Local Pastoral Areas times when representing the College in their uniform. Pupils should be proud to be members of this College. St. Ambrose Deanery (Diocese of Shrewsbury) The following Local Pastoral Areas include the following postcodes: All WA14, WA15, M31 and M33 postcodes. We expect all pupils at the College to have genuine respect for themselves, for others and for the good of the whole College community. In this regard our approach upholds a Christocentric approach encapsulating the St. Hugh and St John West Timperley Gospel message of love of God and love of neighbour. St. Vincent de Paul’s All Saints Ashton-on-Mersey St. Margaret Ward Sale St. Joseph’s Sale Holy Angels Our Lady of Lourdes Partington Holy Family Sale Moor

St Ambrose Barlow Deanery (Diocese of Salford) The following Local Pastoral Areas include the following postcodes: All M16, M21, M32 and M41 postcodes.

Our Lady’s & St. Alphonsus Moss Side/ St. Ann’s Stretford St. Hugh of Lincoln Stretford Our Lady and the English Martyrs Davyhulme/Urmston St. Monica’s Flixton St. John’s and St Teresa’s Firswood/Chorlton

All boys who achieve the qualifying score for entry to the school who have a Statement of Special Educational Needs (SEN) or Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan who name the school will be admitted. Academic Support & Pastoral Care Special Needs An academic grammar school with high standards of education for all of its pupils. We value each pupil for the talents and gifts they each have. For those boys who struggle with some of the educational demands made on them, we seek to help them through In terms of academic results, we expect each boy to perform to the best of his ability by using his talents and a programme of support tailored to their specific needs. This is the shared responsibility of the boys’ Subject gifts to the full. Teacher, House Tutor and House Leader. We also have a designated Learning Support Manager, who looks Our dedicated teaching staff offer every possible support and advice to achieve this aim. We expect the boys to after special needs. take advantage of the many opportunities offered and to involve themselves in activities outside the classroom whether this be on the sporting field, in terms of music, drama, lunchtime clubs, or any of the many other extra- Parental involvement curricular activities on offer.

All pupils will take a minimum of nine GCSE examinations at the end of Year 5 The College will seek to keep the parents of the pupil fully informed of all measures taken and progress made.

In Years 1 and 2 students are continually assessed. From Year 2 in Mathematics, the boys are taught in sets. In keeping with the teaching of the Catholic Church, the College seeks to act “in loco parentis” for the boys in This allows the work to be covered at a pace appropriate to the ability of each boy. If a pupil is deemed to be College, but never usurping the primary right and duty of parents to educate their own children as they see fit. finding difficulties within a particular subject, support will be given where extra help is needed.

The College employs an Achievement Mentor who will work individually with pupils experiencing particular What are special educational needs? problems to help them to overcome their difficulties. Sixth Form mentors are also used to assist in this process. Whilst we believe all boys are “Gifted and Talented”, we do offer support, advice and more challenging work A child has special educational needs, if he has a learning difficulty which calls for special educational provision to the “high achievers and more able” pupils within the College. to be made for him.

We have an established and progressive careers programme at St Ambrose College that ensures that every student A child has learning difficulty: leaves our school equipped with the skills to live a fulfilling life. We pride ourselves on offering all of our young people exciting opportunities within the curriculum, whole school activities and extracurricular sessions. We offer independent If he has significantly greater difficulty in learning than the majority of children of the same age. careers guidance to all students through our partnership with MPloy Careers Service and have a dedicated member of staff who has responsibility for the whole-school careers programme. Some of this year’s events include our annual If he has a disability which either prevents or hinders the child from making use of educational facilities Careers Convention, monthly Careers Cafes and collaborations with industry professionals. Additionally, we offer a of a kind provided for children of the same age in schools within the area of the local authority. drop-in clinic with our qualified Careers Advisor and any student can access careers guidance at any point during their time with the college. All of these opportunities result in an inclusive careers provision that enables our students, from A child must not be regarded as having a learning difficulty solely because the language or form of language first year to upper sixth, to become aware of the options they have and give them the essential advice, information and of the home is different from the language in which he is being taught or will be taught. guidance they need to make informed decisions. Special educational needs may be evident in the child’s behavioural, physical, speech and language, sensory In order to encourage the best performance from each pupil, we provide homework diaries that are monitored or learning difficulties. by parents and House Tutor. This is a particularly effective means of communication between school and home. If it is thought that a child may have a special educational need it is the responsibility of the local education Appraisal operates throughout the College, so that parents receive regular assessment reports during the year, authority to make a formal assessment. which give information on the effort and achievement of their sons.

House Leaders of the four houses will monitor the progress and work ethic of the boys together with the House Tutor. This provides the boys with support and encouragement in both their academic and non-academic pursuits. The House Tutor is the person with whom the pupils have most day-to-day contact and who will be aware of the pupil’s circumstances. The House Tutor should be the initial point of contact for parents who have any concerns about their son. Normally, most matters are dealt with at this level. Should it be necessary, the House Leader will be directly involved, particularly if there is a need to liaise with parents. In a supportive and caring environment, boys within a House Group are guided to be alert to the needs of others and will often advise the House Tutor if a problem is suspected.

Student mentors Sam Nanda and James Bennett working with younger pupils. College Uniform The House System

Enriching the individual within the context of a global Christian Community Whilst boys are placed in curriculum groups for their lessons, at the beginning of the day, they are attached to a House Group during house period. This time allows the boys to mix with a different group of boys and be supported by their peers for half an hour a day, thus giving them the opportunity to extend their friendship group to boys from other year groups. All boys have a House Tutor who is the first point of contact for both pupils and parents within the College. The boys stay in the same House throughout their time at the College, so that their House Leader remains constant. Upon entry, your son will receive a house badge which is expected to be worn on his blazer. Boys can earn house points (which are counted towards house competitions) and/or credits for academic excellence, outstanding behaviour or for any activity which can be defined as service.

The College uniform for pupils is the following: Black Blazer (College design, only available from Monkhouse) Saint Ambrose College House badge (welcome badge provided by the College, with replacements available for purchase) Blessed Edmund Rice Outdoor coats (optional, plain, dark in colour without pattern) Grey pullover (College design only available from Monkhouse) White shirt (long or short sleeve) Tie (College design, only available from Monkhouse) Trousers (black or dark Grey) Shoes (black, not boots, sports trainers, velcro fasteners or suede shoes) Socks (black or dark grey, not ankle socks) Aquinas House AugustineHouse Ignatius House Newman House Rucksack (plain, dark in colour without pattern, with optional House College rucksack available from Monkhouse) (Blue) (Green) (Red) (Yellow)

PE/Sportswear/swimwear (all items available from Monkhouse) House Leader House Leader House Leader House Leader Mr Rush Mr Aspinwall Mr Cutting Mr Crawford PE sweatshirt navy/white with College crest (optional) PE T-shirt navy/white & PE shorts navy/white Rugby Jersey (personalised) & rugby shorts The House System encourages: Games socks (royal/scarlet stripe) Polo shirt (summer term only) ‘A positive competitive ethos based upon engagement and action which extends and enriches the individual Baselayer (optional) within the context of a global Christian community.’ Swimcap (compulsory) Swim Jammers (compulsory, navy with house trim) The School Day: Boys to be in attendance by 8.55am All items of uniform can be purchased from Monkhouse in store or on-line www.monkhouse.com House Period 09:00 - 09:30 Name tapes can also be purchased and are advisable. Period 1 09:30 - 10:30 Systems Used Period 2 10:30 - 11:25 ParentMail PMX is used to send all College correspondence and for dealing with trip payments and cashless Break 11:25 - 11:40 catering. The College also uses a swipe card system for access, registration, printing and cashless catering. Your Period 3 11:40 - 12:40 son will be issued with a card upon admission. Lunch 12:40 - 13:40 College Website www.st-ambrosecollege.org.uk The College website allows parents to regularly check for news and useful information. Period 4 13:40 - 14:40 Period 5 14:40 - 15:35 Internal and External Sports Provision Sports facilities are contained in the southern wing and Building Features extend over two floors. The twenty five metre long, six lane swimming pool sits directly below the sports hall and provides views across the rugby pitches and cricket In September 2012, the College opened its new square. The air conditioned sports hall, houses a full size £24 million building. The new College is designed basketball court, cricket nets and four badminton courts. around the shape of a Celtic cross; the cross features Alongside this is a fitness suite equipped with Concept 2 on the badge of all Edmund Rice Schools. rowing machines, weights and fitness stations.

The senior rugby pitch and cricket square maintain As boys enter the College they are presented with the the views from Hale Road. These facilities have been central atrium and ‘Spanish steps’ which provide a social supplemented by two further rugby fields to the south of gathering area. The central atrium space is designed as the building, where spectators can view matches from the a multi functional space for assembly, theatre style grassed terrace areas or the viewing balcony. performances, religious services and a dining/social space. Also located in the central space, the Chapel which acts The outdoor areas provide additional areas for pupil as the focal point to the whole College has an axial development with the wetland areas and allotments; relationship to Holy Angels Church to the south east. there is also a ‘trim trail’ and exercise area along with traversing walls. The main building is made up of four wings over three storeys, which house the main teaching spaces. These teaching spaces are centralised around the central atrium Lunch Time Clubs & Societies space with the sports facilities located to the south of the The following sample list is by no means exhaustive, main building. In order to maximise external space on as every year new staff and pupils bring new talents and the site the sports hall has been located over the interests to the College: swimming pool and is connected to the College building. Monday Cross Country Club These areas combine to provide a clear representation of Drama Club the Celtic Cross. Outdoor eating areas are equipped with Edmund Rice Awards Scheme furniture created from the trees felled during construction. Geography Society Hockey Ground floor Jazz Band This level provides both pupil and visitor entrances to the College, the College office and the major proportion of Tuesday Creative Writing specialist areas e.g. design and technology, languages, Duke of Edinburgh dining and lecture theatre as well as a direct link to the Junior Choir swimming pool both from the central area and via a Languages Club separate sports entrance. Politics Society Wednesday Computer Programming First floor Cooking The first floor level accommodates the balance of specialist Chess Club areas including science together with music, English, Drama Club drama and art. The first floor also accommodates a sport Above: Student Council Eco Society cardio room and the sports hall. Top left: D of E Greek Sailing Expedition preparations Physics and Engineering Society Top right: PGL Trip 2018 Puzzle Club School of Rock Second floor Science Club The second floor accommodates the Theology and Mathematics departments. It houses the library pods, Thursday Cricket/Rugby Sixth Form common room and outdoor balcony alongside Design and Technology study areas and ICT classrooms. Every wing is provided Film Club with a dedicated ICT room and boys also have access to History Society several ‘cyber cafes’ during their free time. Senior Choir

Saint Ambrose College has its own on-site Bus Terminal. Friday Biology Society Debating Society Edmund Rice International Maths Clinic Orchestra Water Polo

Weight training takes place daily under the supervision of our Sports Manager. English

“A book is a device to ignite the imagination” Advanced Level Alan Bennett We offer both English Language and English Literature at A level. For English Literature, we follow the AQA Specification A course, which approaches the study of literature through the lens of historicism, In English, we seek to nurture creativity and encouraging the independent study of a range of texts imagination and to encourage boys to be within a shared context. We aim to give students the clear and precise in their use of language in opportunity to broaden their experience of literature a variety of different contexts. We are keen and to build on the analytical and evaluative skills to promote a love of reading which goes far developed at GCSE. We also offer English Language beyond the classroom and encourage wider at A level, which gives students the opportunity to engage creatively and critically with a wide range of reading at Key Stage 3 through our Reading texts and discourses. Award Scheme. Beyond this, all boys study both English Language and Literature at GCSE and we offer both English Language and English Literature at A Level. Extra Curricular Activities

Lower School The Debating Society meets regularly and many of our boys perform in external competitions. The English curriculum in Years 1and 2 involves the study of a wide range of stimulating literary and In addition, we have a flourishing Creative non-fiction texts, including a Shakespeare play Writing Society and members of the Journalism Club Young diplomats set up their own United and other pre-1900 works. Within this, we focus participate in the annual BBC Schools News Day. on developing critical skills in terms of reading, Nations debating chamber. Students are pictured above with English teacher Mrs writing and speaking and listening in preparation Keen readers can get involved in Book Club, which Corrigan for GCSE. meets once a week, and is active in promoting reading widely throughout the lower school through a host of different activities. Similarly, the Literature GCSE Society also meet regularly to discuss their reading of a range of iconic literary texts past and present. We study AQA English Language and English Literature at GCSE. The boys study a number of different prose and drama texts, including Lord of the Flies, Dr Jeckll and Mr Hyde and Macbeth, and a wide range of poetry. They will also further develop their ability to write clearly and fluently in a range of different styles. They are assessed through external examination at the end of the course. Mathematics Computer ‘Mathematics, rightly viewed, possesses Science not only truth, but beauty.’

Bertrand Russell Pupils explore the digital world. Boys learn about everyday computer systems and are Mathematics is central to our understanding of the introduced to computer programming that world in which we live; it underpins science, technology, medicine, economics and government. enables the modern world to function. The mathematics classroom will provide students with the opportunity to see beyond the horizons set by the problems at hand. Lower School The increasing use of technology in all aspects of Our aim is for all students to enjoy mathematics society makes confident, creative and productive use and to achieve their potential. We use a variety of of computing an essential skill for life. In years 1 and teaching styles to cater for their learning needs and 2, using the latest software and technologies, pupils will are always available to support all students both in be taught how to write computer programs to solve real and out of the classroom. world problems; enabling them to develop key skills such as computational thinking and writing algorithms. decimalGeometry Lower School In addition, as part of our computing culture, pupils are taught how to be safe and secure when using In the lower school students study the building blocks computing systems. required for mathematics in the key areas of number, Angle ICT algebra, geometry and statistics. An emphasis is also placed on problem solving and functional mathematics, to percentage help students develop important skills that will be needed GCSE at GCSE and A Level. At GCSE pupils follow the AQA specification for Computer Science; giving learners the opportunity to formulae investigate and gain an in-depth understanding into GCSE how computers work, and how they are used. Pupils At GCSE, students study the AQA Linear specification, will begin to specialise in a particular programming MathematicsDigits taking their GCSE examinations at the end of the language and utilise this skill in various scenarios, such course. The vast majority of our students take the higher as creating computer games and developing mobile examination, targeting grades 7, 8 and 9 (equivalent to Graph phone applications. the old A and A* grades). In addition, our more able students also sit the AQA Level 2 Certificate in Further Mathematics. Algebra Advanced level Pupils follow the AQA Computer Science Specification. Advanced Level In the first year the subject is divided into practical Mathematics A Level is a very popular subject in the Computer and theory modules. In the second year pupils study Sixth Form and compliments numerous other subjects. further practical modules theory topics relating to Mathematics is demanding but also very enjoyable and computer science. Pupils also work on a programming rewarding. Our students will take the Edexcel A Level. project of their choice. A number of students who are considering pursuing a Mathematics, Engineering, Computing or Economics degree also study the Edexcel Further Mathematics A Destinations Level. Computer Science is a good base to lead into Software Development and Engineering, as well as Extra-Curricular Activities various careers in the communications and video Mathematics Clinic takes place once a week to support games industries. students from any year group with their mathematics. In addition, a mentoring scheme has been introduced where Sixth Form mathematicians provide help to Key Stage 3 and 4 students who we feel would benefit from extra one-to-one support. Our strongest students take part each year in the National Maths Challenge which is run by the United Kingdom Mathematics Trust.

Right: Mathematics Puzzle Club Theology & Design & Religious Education Technology

Parents who entrust the education of their sons to Technology at Saint Ambrose College prepares Saint Ambrose College have the right to expect students to take part in the development of tomorrow’s a rigorous, challenging and authentic Religious rapidly changing world. Creative thinking encourages Education. them to make positive changes to their quality of life. The subject encourages young people to become Education of students in Catholic belief and practice autonomous and creative problem-solvers, both as is a core of the College’s curriculum. The term individuals and as part of a team. Theology, defined as “Faith seeking understanding” most accurately describes the work of the Faculty. Boys are encouraged to acquire a deeper knowledge Lower School The students undertake a foundation course in Design & and understanding of their faith, and to consider Technology from a given design brief; pupils will work through the impact of their faith in guiding their values and the design process to make their specific designs. The pupils decisions. will use a variety of design and rendering techniques, as well as computer aided design and manufacture, utilising Parents of boys of other traditions or faiths can be the CAD/CAM laser and vinyl cutter. The students will also sure that the integrity of their son’s conscience will have an introduction into electronics and the components that be respected. Boys are assessed on their knowledge they will use within their circuits, using a variety of techniques and materials. Additionally students will be introduced to and understanding of the Catholic faith, not on their cooking, learning basic food hygiene and actual life skills that beliefs or practice. are required to cook three nutritious meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Lower School GCSE Boys in Years 1 and 2 follow a scheme of work based upon Design and Technology will prepare students to participate “The Way, the Truth and the Life” syllabus published by confidently and successfully in an increasingly technological the Catholic Truth Society. Boys study a different module world. Students will gain awareness and learn from wider each half-term, with an extended written assessment at the influences on design and technology including historical, social, end of each topic. The life of Blessed Edmund Rice and cultural, environmental and economic factors. Students will study his legacy are explored throughout the year to give an the core technical and designing and making principles, including understanding of the College’s unique ethos and spirit, a broad range of design processes, materials techniques and summarised in the Eight Essentials of an Edmund Rice equipment. They will also have the opportunity to study a specialist education. technical principle in greater depth. In Year 1 boys study a module on Sikhism, and enjoy a Advanced Level half-day visit to a local Gudwara. In Year 2 boys study Our Design Technology A Level qualification gives students the the Jewish faith and enjoy a visit to the local Synagogue. practical skills, theoretical knowledge and confidence to succeed All Year 1 boys also attend a retreat during their first half- in a number of careers. They will investigate historical, social, term, as part of their induction and spiritual formation. cultural, environmental and economic influences on design and technology, whilst enjoying opportunities to put their learning in GCSE to practice by producing prototypes of their choice. Students will Religious Studies is a core subject taken by all boys at gain a real understanding of what it means to be a designer, GCSE following the AQA syllabus. This will involve the alongside the knowledge and skills sought by higher education study of Catholic Christianity (75%) and Judaism (25%). and employers. Our GCSE results are consistently outstanding, indicating the commitment and enthusiasm with which boys approach Extra Curricular Activities the subject. A weekly Technology Club is available to students eager to acquire additional cooking skills, alongside the opportunity to Advanced Level join D&T society utilising CAD/CAM and CNC equipment. As Religious Studies A Level is a popular option at Sixth the students progress to the older years, they are provided Form. Students study the Philosophy of Religion and with the opportunity to join various trips such as Jaguar, Religious Ethics. Bentley, JCB and the Alternative Centre for Technology along with getting involved in STEM competitions and The British Furniture Competition to win prizes and certificates. All students take part in a weekly General RE programme, examining the social teaching of the Church. The course is assessed internally through a series of student led research Destinations projects. This subject can lead and contribute to careers in Graphic Design, Product Design, Architecture, Graphic Communication, Engineering, and Teaching.

Pictured far left: DFS Furniture Design Competition Winner Creative Arts Music

Art Pupils study a variety of different styles of In Art pupils explore a range of media and music from around the world. They will subjects with the aim to enhance and develop learn how to compose, perform and listen their visual vocabulary and practical skills. to gain an appreciation for all different Boys also continually learn about art, craft and genres of Music. designers,using this knowledge to inform ideas and stretch imagination. Lower School

At KS3 pupils have regular music and choral lessons. Singing is an important part of the music curriculum Lower School and all pupils participate in religious ceremonies In the Lower School pupils gain a broad foundation throughout the year.. in art using a range of two and three dimensional media. Through a series of challenging projects and exercises boys investigate drawing, portraiture, colour GCSE and composition in Year 1, whereas in Year 2, pupils At KS4 GCSE pupils are expected to prepare both solo explore linear and atmospheric perspective, collage, and ensemble performances. They study composition painting, sculpture and photography. Students are and create their own works which are then recorded. continually encouraged to become independent in their The final exam focuses on listening skills and can learning and practice. Using a sketchbook boys develop be based on music from either Classical, Popular or and research ideas improving basic skills which in turn World music. informs their art. Advanced Level GCSE A level builds on the foundations of GCSE. There are At GCSE pupils follow a Fine Art or Photography composition and performance aspects to the course as specification and develop work based around topics as well as introducing analytical skills when studying the diverse as Portraits & Cubism, the Fauves, still-life, loose set works. landscape and also subjects of their own choice, including the use of photography and film. Instrumental Tuition Instrumental tuition is available on a ‘one-to-one’ basis Advanced Level from a team of specialist teachers. Instrumentalists A level very much builds on the foundations of GCSE and are expected to join the appropriate extra curricular pupils engage in work which not only challenges their ensemble. understanding of the meaning and breadth of art, but also allows many boys to create truly outstanding works Extra Curricular Activities of art. Specifications in Fine Art and also Photography The extra curricular life of the school is thriving. are currently offered. Ensembles include the Orchestra, School of Rock, Jazz Band, Junior Choir and Chamber Choir . The Church’s calendar provides a great focus for celebrations. The Extra Curricular Activities ensembles have a busy time from the start of each New Pupils regularly exhibit work in local and national art Year rehearsing for the Feast of Saint Ambrose and competitions and exhibitions. Annual competitions the Carol Service. The ensembles also perform in the include the Living Edge Competition at the Lowry, Royal competitions and events in the community and beyond. Academy summer on-line exhibition and the student exhibition organised by the Saatchi and Mall Galleries. Last year ensembles performed in a number of events including supporting local charities and community Destinations events. In the Bowdon Music Festival the Junior Choir Many old Ambrosians go on to pursue careers in Art and were awarded the Senior Choir Prize and the Sinfonetta Design, and popular areas of study include Architecture, ensemble were awarded the Senior Ensemble Prize. Fine Art, Animation, Graphic Design and the study of the History of Art. Past students have been accepted to many The Music Department rewards its students with many of the best art colleges including The Slade, Chelsea and trips and visits, including Belgium in 2018. The Courtauld Institute of Art.

Old Ambrosians: Keith Breeden is an established member of the Royal Society of Portrait Painters and Peter Saville is Graphic Designer for the Music Industry Drama Lower School Drama is taught once a fortnight in the 1st and 2nd Year. Students develop their performance skills through the exploration of published play extracts such as; Oliver Lansley’s The Trench, Sophocles’ Antigone and Shakespeare’s Hamlet. In addition, students experiment with devising work using masks, poetry and prose. The focus of lessons in the lower school is to develop confidence, control and communication skills.

GCSE Drama is hugely popular with over 70 students enrolled for GCSE in the 2018/19 academic year. At GCSE students study the AQA specification. In their practical work, students have the opportunity to create their own piece of theatre and are assessed as either an actor or designer (set, lighting, sound or costume). They must keep a detailed log of the rehearsal and development process which is also assessed. In addition, students perform two separate extracts of a published play, as either an actor or a designer, to an external examiner.

Furthermore, students attend the theatre several times a year and choose a performance to analyse in detail in the written exam. The theatre visits also develop their knowledge and understanding for the practical work, and hopefully inspire a lifelong love of the theatre.

Advanced Level At A-Level students study the AQA specification. Like GCSE, the course is segmented into three components. Students study two set texts, for example, Fo’s Accidental Death and Wertenbaker’s Our Country’s Good for Section A of their written exam. Students also have the opportunity to devise their own work and perform the work of published playwrights, using the influence and methodologies of a chosen theatre practitioner. Students can choose to be an actor, director or designer.

Extra Curricular Activities The Drama Society’s annual production is one of the most talked about events of the academic calendar. Past productions have included musicals such as Joseph, Bugsy Malone and Oliver, as well as plays such as The Tempest, Wonderland, Lord of the Flies and Lewis Carroll’s absurd comedy The Hunting of the Snark. Our November 2018 production is a compellation event; part of a series of college and national events to commemorate 100 years since the end of World War I. All students are welcome to get involved, both on-stage and behind the scenes.

For Years 1 and 2 students, Drama Club also runs weekly and is led by older GCSE students and staff. In addition, the Drama Society runs several theatre visits throughout the year to the Royal Exchange, The Lowry and to the West End in London.

Follow the Creative Arts Faculty on Facebook and Twitter for regular updates and notices. Pictured top left: Darragh Cowley, who is studying at Guildford School of Acting, pictured with current Drama students. Featured right: Jonah Rzeskiewiecz who was awarded a coveted place at RADA. History ‘Study history, study history. In history lies all Geography the secrets of statecraft.’ Winston Churchill Geography is the study of the earth’s landscapes, History at Saint Ambrose College aims to equip our peoples, places and environments. It is, quite students with the ability to select, collate and analyse simply, about the world in which we live. information. Students gain an understanding of the causes and consequences of significant events and Lower School identify how societies have developed through the Following a baseline assessment, Year 1 pupils are centuries. given a thorough grounding in the different aspects of the subject. In Year 2 students study weather and climate, Lower School Africa and Development. First Year Topics: How to be an Historian, Roman Expansion and Civilisation, The Arabic Empire, The Norman Conquests, the Middle Ages and the GCSE Reformation. In Year 3 we start the GCSE course. We follow the AQA 8035 syllabus which is split into three sections. Second Year Topics: The Civil War, The Industrial Revolution, The First World War, the Second World In Paper 1 we look at natural hazards such as earthquakes War, the Holocaust and a project on the significance of and volcanoes, tropical storms, extreme weather in the an individual of your choice from such as UK and climate change. We also look at rivers and carry Alan Turing. These topics allow students to gain a broad out an in depth study of the River Dane, coastal landforms understanding of British, European and World History. and ecosystems including tropical rainforests and hot deserts. GCSE In Paper 2 we look at the challenges in the human At GCSE students study how the world has changed in environment including urban issues, the changing the 20th Century, including the Causes of the First World economic world and resource management. War, The War in the Air , on Land and at Sea, and how Germany changed between 1890 – 1945 under the In Paper 3, students no longer have controlled assessment governments of the Kaiser, the Weimar Republic and the but they will be examined on two pieces of fieldwork and Nazis. Students also develop their understanding of Britain will also have to answer questions on a resource booklet today through studying how political power has developed that is released prior to the exam. since 1170, covering the Magna Carta, the Civil War, the Glorious Revolution, the development of Trade Unions in the 20th Century and the impact of the Brixton riots in the Advanced Level 1980s . Students also study significant aspects of Elizabeth The A Level course follows the new AQA linear syllabus I such as the Spanish Armada. introduced in 2016. In Paper 1 we look at Physical Geography and the paper is made up of 3 components. Advanced Level In component A, we study Water and Carbon cycles. In Students develop their skills as a historian through Component B, we study Glacial Systems and Landscapes studying British and European History. Key events include and in component C, we look at Hazards. This paper is the Russian Revolution and the campaign for Home Rule in worth 40% of the A Level. Ireland. Paper 2 looks at Human Geography and is also worth Extra Curricular Activities 40% of the A Level. In component A, we study Global The Saint Ambrose College History Society was established Systems and Global Governance. In component B, we in 2003 and is run by Sixth formers who prepare a weekly look at Changing Places and in component C, we study programme of presentations. The History Department has Resource Security. a tradition of visiting locations of historical interest in other countries such as Germany (Berlin), Russia (Moscow and St The third part of the exam consists of an independent Petersberg), America (Washington) and France (the World investigation of between 3,000 and 4,000 words and is War One Battlefields). worth 20% of the qualification.

Destinations Extra Curricular Activities As History is a widely respected discipline, A Level The students are encouraged to attend the Geography historians are accepted at the best universities including Society where they can take part in House Quizzes and Oxford and Cambridge. A wide range of professions do a variety of activities using the IT facilities. There are including Law, Journalism, Accountancy and the Police will many exciting opportunities to go on field trips including recruit history students due to their ability to select, collate a trip to Iceland for those studying Geography for GCSE . and analyse information. Daniel Power, a former student, was appointed Professor of Medieval History at Swansea University in 2007. Languages Science In the Languages faculty pupils are given the opportunity to learn three languages (French, Spanish and Latin) as well as coming into direct Science at Saint Ambrose College aims to contact with the culture of the countries where the inspire and enthuse pupils. languages are spoken. Lower School In Year 1, pupils start their study of French and Spanish. Lower School Pupils are encouraged to see the language as a real form In the Lower School, the emphasis is on the fun and of communication and not just as an abstract concept, practical nature of science. Pupils learn the essential and to achieve that, considerable emphasis is placed on skills to allow them to carry out investigations safely Listening and Speaking, as well as acquiring a sound in a scientific manner. Through six thematic topics grasp of grammar. At the end of Year 1, all pupils are per year, they begin to appreciate the fundamental given the opportunity to visit Blainville in Normandy. In scientific principles, and develop these ideas to apply Year 2, all pupils will study French, Spanish and Latin. them to the real world around them. GCSE At the end of Year 2, pupils make their GCSE choices. GCSE Pupils who opt for French and/or Spanish follow the At GCSE the boys will study the 9-1 new style, terminal AQA specification in Spanish and the WJCE Edugas Separate Science qualifications. These will prepare specification for French. These help develop their them for their A level studies. language capabilities in listening, reading, speaking and writing. Pupils who opt for Latin follow the OCR specification which develops their knowledge of Latin Advanced Level grammar and vocabulary, and of Roman daily life, A level takes the sometimes simplified scientific history and mythology through the study of Latin literary principles of KS4 and reveals the greater depth and texts. detail of current scientific understanding. Both the pace and content of Biology, Chemistry and Physics A Advanced Level Levels make them some of the most demanding and Pupils of French and/or Spanish further develop their sought after qualifications. The new linear A Level language skills and also study aspects of the country’s civilisation. The course is designed to develop their qualifications have a greater emphasis on maths skills. ability to become fully operational in the language of their choice, and the syllabus includes up-to-date topics such as immigration and the changes in the family Extra curricular Activities structure. Pupils follow the WJEC Edugas specification Pupils regularly participate in local and national for French and the AQA specification for Spanish. Latin scientific competitions such as the Olympiads. An at A Level may also availalble, subject to sufficient active Biology Society, Engineering Club, Medical/ uptake. Forensic Club and Key Stage 3 Science Club allow all pupils the opportunity to develop their scientific interests. Extra Curricular Activities Pupils have the opportunity to take part in a variety of trips. In addition to the 1st year visit to Normandy, pupils Destinations in Year 3 and above have had the opportunity to visit The value and reputation of Science A levels means that Málaga in southern Spain, or Le Mans in France. During they are able to open very many doors to a vast array such visits, they are accommodated in Spanish or French of post 18 careers and opportunities for further study. families, thus providing a real insight into the culture, as well as ample opportunity to practise their language. We regularly equip our boys for study at prestigious Sixth Formers studying Spanish are offered a weeks work UK universities including Oxford and Cambridge. A experience in a range of Spanish companies in Málaga regular cohort study Medicine and Veterinary Science. or Córdoba, whilst those studying French offered a similar experience in Caen, Normandy.

Some of our Sixth Formers also participate in Year 1 and 2 lessons, helping the younger boys practise their language skills. Many old Ambrosians have gone on to Top right and middle left: 1st Year annual trip to Blainville study languages at University, either as a Single or Dual Middle right: Spanish cooking Honours Languages Degree, or in combination with other Far left: Making square bubbles in Science Club subjects such as Business Studies, Law and Sciences. The extra curricular programme is extensive with students representing College rugby union, cross-country, basketball, swimming, water polo, athletics, table tennis, Sport & PE tennis, badminton and cricket teams. Three senior soccer teams and individual sports are encouraged within the College. Inter school tournaments are run in football, badminton and rowing. The College also holds ‘I want competitive sport to be at the centre its own triathlon. of a truly rounded education that all schools The following list of clubs is by no means exhaustive as offer’ The Rt Hon Nicky Morgan MP, former every year new staff bring new talents and interests to the Secretary of State for Education. school. Rugby Union Badminton Cricket Trampolining Volleyball Cross Country We are fortunate to offer some of the best facilities in Swimming Weight Training Gaelic Football the country, with a 25 metre swimming pool, a four Water Polo Rowing Boot Camp court badminton sports hall and a fully equipped Tennis Athletics Triathlon fitness suite. The outside sporting facilities are also Table Tennis Basketball Gymnastics enhanced by three rugby pitches, an all-weather floodlit 4th generation pitch, cricket nets, two Tours The College has become renowned for its biannual sports artificial wickets and a 7-a-side all-weather football tours. Senior students have visited Barbados, South pitch. We have recently added three full-sized tennis America, South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, Fiji, courts. All students are encouraged to participate, America and Canada. Junior tours similarly have travelled enjoy sports and keep fit. to Ireland, France, Holland and Italy. Many continuing sporting links have been made with these countries. Lower School Students will have three 1 hour PE periods a fortnight Old Ambrosians and 2 games periods. One of the PE lessons will be in Saint Ambrose Old Boys have now established the pool, where students will improve their techniques, themselves on an international scale with Old Ambrosians as well as develop personal and life saving skills and representing the College across the globe. In the last ten will be involved in opportunities at competition level. In years we have created ten England or Ireland based PE they will experience athletic, games and gymnastic professional rugby players and seventeen schoolboy or activities and in outdoor games, develop teamwork in full internationals, with many current pupils following house competitions. in their footsteps. We also have three Saint Ambrose graduates involved in the Great Britain Sevens Squad, with Connor Doherty winning a Silver Medal for England GCSE at the Commonwealth Youth Games in Nassau, Bahamas. In this stage of development, students will be able to choose In recent years we have had several footballers leave the subject as an academic qualification. Coaching and us to take up contracted scholarships, Sam Adewusi officiating opportunities will be available in a variety of currently plays professional football for Carlisle United, sports. Non-academic lessons will develop health and as well as Alex McQuade and Josh Hampson plying related fitness programmes where access to the fitness their trade in Victoria, Australia. Ciaran Murphy a suite will enable students to improve their knowledge of former Saint Ambrose athlete is also on the list of the few training. House games will also be an important part of English athletes to run a sub four minute mile. In cricket the subject with competition encouraged. we have numerous players playing 1st Team cricket in the prestigious Cheshire County Premiership with several progressing to represent Cheshire in the Minor County Advanced Level League. Our swimming alumni are currently competing at PE is offered to Sixth Form students and again local, national and international level with Saint Ambrose opportunities for coaching and officiating are given in being represented at the Commonwealth Games Trials. swimming, rugby and football as well as some minority sports. Access to facilities in study periods will enable Sixth Form students to pursue their interest in sport. Sporting Competitions College sides compete in a variety of local, divisional and national competitions giving students the opportunity Extra Curricular Activities to play at the highest level. Many students will represent Whilst concentrating on the academic side of a boy’s Trafford and Cheshire as well as the opportunity at northern career, we also feel that sporting and extra-curricular and national levels. We expect students to represent engagement is vital. At Saint Ambrose College your son the College when chosen and enjoy the diversity of sport will be encouraged to involve himself in as many activities offered continuing to raise the standards of the College’s as possible and will be spoilt for choice. growing reputation.

Featured left: The Natwest Schools’ Rugby U18 Vase Final, Twickenham, 16th March 2016 Statistics & Results GCSE Results 2017 A Level Results 2017 GCSE Results 2017 Sixth Form Results 2017

Subject 9 %8 %7 %6 %5 %4 %3 % Avg Pts Avg Grade Qualification A* %A %B %C %D %E % Avg Points Avg Grade English 7.3 17.2 29.1 28.5 13.9 4 0 6.64 7/8 Art A Level 100 00000 60A* English Literature 13.2 21.9 25.2 25.2 13.9 0.7 0 6.93 7/8 Biology A Level 31.8 18.2 18.2 18.2 13.6 0 43.6 B+ Mathematics 15.2 17.9 27.8 24.5 13.2 0.7 0.7 6.93 7/8 Business Studies A Level 8.7 17.4 30.4 21.7 13 8.7 36.1 B‐ Summary 11.9 19 27.4 26 13.7 1.8 0.2 6.83 7/8 Chemistry A Level 20.8 45.8 8.3 16.7 8.3 0 45.4 A‐ Computing A Level 21.4 35.7 7.1 28.6 7.1 0 43.6 B+ Subject A* %A %B %C %D %E %U % Avg Pts Avg Grade Design Technology A Level 0 28.6 33.3 28.6 9.5 0 38.1 B‐ Art 53.8 30.8 15.4 00007.58 A Economics A Level 3.6 42.9 28.6 25 0 0 42.5 B+ Computing 12.1 46.6 29.3 12.1 0 0 0 6.38 A English A Level 9.1 18.2 50 18.2 4.5 0 40.9 B Design & Technology 21.6 37.3 29.4 11.8 0 0 0 6.53 A Extended Project Qualification 100 00000 60A* Drama 6.3 75 18.8 00006.81 A French A Level 0 50 50 0 0 0 45 A‐ Further Maths 25 18.3 33.3 21.7 0 0 1.7 6.11 B Further Maths A Level 0 88.9 11.1 0 0 0 48.9 A Geography 26.7 42.2 26.7 4.4 0 0 0 6.87 A General Studies A Level 0 0 25 0 75 0 25 C‐ History 32 43.3 17.5 7.2 0007 A Geography A Level 37.5 12.5 37.5 0 12.5 0 46.3 A‐ French 37.5 43.8 15.6 3.1 0 0 0 7.23 A Government & Politics A Level 5.9 41.2 41.2 11.8 0 0 44.1 B+ Italian 100 0000008.5A* History A Level 3.8 38.5 38.5 19.2 0 0 42.7 B+ Latin 13.6 27.3 22.7 4.5 18.2 13.6 0 5.32 B Maths A Level 28.8 34.6 21.2 11.5 3.8 0 47.3 A‐ Persian 0 100 000007 A Physical Education A Level 0 0 25 25 25 25 25 C‐ Spanish 16.2 29.4 23.5 19.1 11.8 0 0 5.85 B Physics A Level 16 36 24 16 4 4 43.2 B+ Music 27.3 45.5 27.3 00007 A Religious Studies A Level 9.1 18.2 36.4 27.3 9.1 0 39.1 B Physical Education 5.9 32.4 38.2 17.6 5.9 0 0 5.75 B Spanish A Level 0 33.3 33.3 33.3 0 0 40 B Religious Education 22.7 36.7 31.3 9.3 0 0 0 6.59 A Summary 15 32.4 27.1 17.8 6.5 1.2 42.8 B+ Biology 17.4 33.6 34.9 12.1 1.3 0.7 0 6.29 A Chemistry 23.1 34 25.2 15 2.7 0 0 6.41 A Destination of Sixth Form Leavers Physics 22.1 31.5 30.2 14.1 2 0 0 6.38 A 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Science 0 0 100 00005.5B Additional Science 0 0 100 00005.5B University 82 86 94 96 101 Gap year 12 7 1 5 2 Summary 22 35.5 28.2 11.8 2.1 0.4 0.1 6.45 A GCSE Results 2017 Last summer saw students achieve a bumper set of GCSE results. Students faced the additional challenge of the new numerical grading system for Maths, English Language and English Literature, 85% of all grades were at A* to B with students recording a stunning 49 nines, the new top grade in those core subjects.

This year students prepared for the numerical grading system across the breath of subjects, we can only wait with great expectation to collate results.

St. Ambrose College Principal James Keulemans said: “We were delighted with last year’s results, particularly in light of the changes to GCSE’s. This is testament to the hard work of students and staff and clearly demonstrates that this generation can rise easily to new challenges.” A Level Results 2017 Ambrose College achieved its best ever A Level results last year, as boys nationally performed better in end of course examinations.

The improvement has been significant, with 74.1% of grades at A* to B and an exceptional 47.5% at A* to A. Three young men met their Oxbridge offers and a magnificent seven have realised their ambition to read Medicine at some of the country’s leading medical colleges.

Principal, James Keulemans said: “I’m delighted with these outstanding results and that so many of our young men have progressed to their first choice university to read challenging subjects much in demand by wider society.”

“Although it does appear the new examination system does tend to play to boys’ strengths and that for the first time in 17 years boys have marginally out performed girls, I cannot stress highly enough that it is not a competition between the genders and that as teachers we want all our young people to flourish. One of the many qualities I admire about this generation is their much greater awareness of gender.” ‘Let us preach without preaching, not by word, but by example, by the catching force, the sympathetic influence our hearts bear to you.’

Saint Ambrose College J M Keulemans Principal Hale Barns, Altrincham, WA15 0HE tel: 0161 980 2711 Email:[email protected] www.st-ambrosecollege.org.uk