Chapter 1 - Home Page

Introduction Contents 

Chapter 1 

Introduction 


School Policies 

Welcome letter 2 

Letter to Pupils 3 

The aims of our school 4 

Religious education and observance 4 

Charter for Catholic Schools 5 

The History of Our School 6 

Any questions? 7/8 


About Our School 

Our catchment area 9 

Our associated primary schools 9 

Our accommodation and situation 10 

Our roll 10 

The structure of our day 10 

Term dates and holidays 11 

Communicating with parents 12 

Our links with the community 13 

Our facilities for adult students 13 

Our extra curricular activities 14 


People and Posts 

The senior staff 15 

The guidance team 15 

Staff list 16/17 

Support services 18 

Our Parent Council 18 

Our School Council 18 


The Curriculum 

Courses in S1 and S2 19/20 

Courses in S3 and S4 21/22 

Courses in S5 and S6 23 


Assessment 

Our assessment policy 24 

Reporting 25 

Encouraging good behaviour 26 

Discipline procedures 26 

School dress 27 

Homework policy 28 

Examination presentation policy 28 

Insurance 28 


Pupil welfare 

Attendance and holidays 29 

Guidance 29 

Pupil Support 30 

Medical Information 33 

Equal opportunities 34 

Accessibility Strategy 34 

MYFIFE/School meals 35 

Health and safety 36 

Occasional & emergency arrangements 36 

Getting to school 37-42 


A Good School? 

A quality education 43 

The views of the pupils 44-45 


Achievement 

Promoting Achievement 46-47 

Results and Statistics 48-52 


Enrolment and Primary/ 

Secondary Liaison 

Enrolment procedures 53 

Transfer arrangements for incoming pupils 53 

Your choice of school 54 

Glossary of terms Used in this Brochure 

Appendix 1 - S3 Option Form 



Useful Addresses/Telephone Numbers 

Handbook 2011 

1


St. Andrew's R C High School 

Overton Road 

KIRKCALDY 

KY1 3JL 

Telephone: 01592 583407 

Fax: 01592 655806 

E-Mail: standrewshs.enquiries@fife.gov.uk 

Dear Parents/Carers 

Starting secondary school is an important and exciting time for any young person. I hope that this 

booklet will help you to understand better the changes which you and your child will experience 

in St Andrew's RC High School. I hope too that it will answer some of the questions you may have 

about how the school is organised, about the subjects we teach and, most importantly, about the 

way we care for the pupils entrusted to us. If, however, we have missed out anything that should 

have been included, please take the chance to ask me or one of my colleagues during any of our 

meetings or by contacting us directly (by letter, telephone or e-mail). 

Of course, a booklet such as this cannot reproduce the atmosphere of a school. In St. Andrew's 

RC High School, we pride ourselves on being a Catholic, comprehensive and caring school. As 

a Catholic school we aim to encourage the practice of our faith and to reflect Christian attitudes 

and values in everything we do. As a comprehensive school we try to assist pupils of all abilities 

to maximise their potential in a secure environment. As a Catholic comprehensive, we try to foster 

a caring atmosphere in which tolerance and respect for others are promoted. Our school receives 

pupils of very different backgrounds from towns throughout East and North Fife. We encourage 

and challenge them all to achieve the highest possible standards. We try too to promote a sense of 

community in the school by encouraging pupils to consider not just their own interests, but also 

those of people less fortunate than themselves. We are delighted to add that visitors and school 

inspectors suggest that we are very successful in meeting these aims. 

I hope that you find this booklet helpful and would welcome suggestions which might improve 

its presentation, its content or, most importantly, its intelligibility. I look forward to welcoming 

you as parents to St Andrew's RC High School and trust that your child will enjoy a happy, but 

challenging, education here. 

Mr P Callaghan 

Headteacher 

January 2011 

St Andrew’s RC High School 

2

Introduction 

Letter to pupils 

To new pupils of St Andrew’s RC High School 

Welcome! You will soon be joining the St Andrew’s 

R C High family and beginning a new chapter in 

your school experience. The move to a new school 

is very exciting and, I am sure you will have many 

questions, some of which may have been answered 

in this handbook. 

We want to make sure that you are well prepared for 

St Andrew’s and as you move from P7 to S1 we have 

a programme of activities which will help you transfer 

smoothly to your new school. St Andrew’s staff will 

visit you in your primary school to speak to you about subjects you will study in St Andrew’s, 

how your classes will be organised and how a timetable works in the secondary school. You will 

also have a chance to visit us so, please don’t be anxious as we aim to build on your learning in 

Primary. The Curriculum for Excellence and our links with your Primary School will help us to 

do this. You should be able to progress from your learning in P7. 

You will learn lots of new information about your new school. To help you, a special booklet for 

new pupils to St Andrew’s is available. However, if you are uncertain or don’t know the answer 

to questions you have then please ask a member of staff. We want to help you. Perhaps, more 

importantly, our senior pupils, who will help you settle into the school, - will be your very own 

personal support as your buddies. As well as this you will have a tutor teacher, a Principal Teacher 

of Guidance, your House Head and a Depute Headteacher in charge of first year; all of these 

people want to help you settle into S1 in St Andrew’s RC High! 

With so many people wishing you well in your new school, I am sure you will succeed! 

My wish for you during your St Andrew’s experience is that you are happy, that you recognise 

your unique talents and abilities and that you mature into responsible citizens. What I expect 

from you is that you are prepared, punctual, polite and that you are prepared to do your best to 

maximise your own potential. If you can do these things I guarantee your success, not only in St 

Andrew’s RC High but in life! 

Wishing you every success 

P Callaghan 

Headteacher 

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Handbook 2011


The aims of our school 

We have many aims in our school. Of course, as a Catholic school we have a distinct sense of 

purpose which we hope will be meaningful to all pupils, including those who do not share or 

practise our faith. As a comprehensive school we have a responsibility to ensure that all pupils 

are given every opportunity to achieve their true potential and to participate fully in all aspects of 

school life. As a school serving a wide community we hope to be welcoming to pupils and their 

parents, to provide a secure and caring environment and to prepare pupils fully for the challenges 

which they will face as adults. 

In summary, our aims are; 

• To enable all to become successful, confident, life-long learners 

• To promote a positive, supportive environment for all 

• To develop respect and understanding for each other within our school and local 

communities 

• To encourage all to be active global citizens 

• To foster Gospel Values in all that we are, in all that we learn, in all that we do and in how we 

live with others 

Our core school values are: 

• Respect 

• Happiness 

• Confidence 

• Ambition 

and the Charter for Catholic Schools is shown over the page 

Religious education and observance 

The school is very conscious of its responsibility to act in partnership with parents and parishes 

to nurture the faith of our pupils. 

We have our own Oratory, an excellent addition to our new extension, and a full range of liturgical 

activities is planned throughout the school session. Pupils are encouraged not just to attend 

services, but to participate actively. We try to make services both meaningful and enjoyable for 

pupils and we involve them in their planning and delivery wherever possible. We recognise too 

that many of our pupils are not Catholic, and that the level of practice and commitment varies 

from family to family. 

Local parishes also provide support for the religious life of the school and our teachers encourage 

pupils to translate their Christian beliefs into practice by taking part in fund-raising activities and 

in the work of groups such as the Fair Trade Group. 

Parents who do not wish their children to take part in the religious life of the school are asked to contact 

the Head Teacher who will seek to ensure that their views are respected. 


4

Introduction 

SCOTTISH CATHOLIC EDUCATION SERVICE 

A CHARTER for CATHOLIC SCHOOLS in SCOTLAND 

The mission of the Catholic school is to develop as a community of faith and learning, providing 

the highest quality of education, and offering formation through the promotion of Gospel values, 

through celebration and worship, and through service to the common good. 

All Catholic schools in Scotland, in honouring Jesus Christ as the Way, the Truth and the Life, 

will feature the following characteristics: 

✴ 

✴ 

✴ 

✴ 

✴ 

✴ 

✴ 

✴ 

✴ 

✴ 

a commitment to the integrated education and formation of the whole person, in close 

partnership with parents as the first educators of their children; 

an inclusive ethos which aims to honour the life, dignity and voice of each person, made in 

the image of God; 

a commitment to the search for wisdom in life and to the pursuit of excellence, through the 

development of each person’s unique God-given talents; 

a commitment to the spiritual formation of the school community, through the shared 

experience of prayer and liturgy, and in partnership with local parishes; 

the provision of religious education programmes which will enable young people to develop 

their understanding of Gospel values and of how to apply them to life; 

a commitment to uphold the moral teaching, faith tradition and sacramental life of the 

Catholic Church; 

a commitment to communicate Catholic social teaching and thereby to promote social 

justice and opportunity for all; 

a commitment to ecumenical action and the unity of Christians; 

the promotion of respect for different beliefs and cultures and for inter-faith dialogue; 

a commitment to support the continuing professional and spiritual development of staff. 

All staff appointed to a Catholic school are expected to support and promote the 

aims, mission, values and ethos of the school, as illustrated in this Charter. 

published by the Scottish Catholic Education Service on behalf of the Bishops’ Conference of Scotland 

5 

Handbook 2011


The history of our school 

Facts and figures 

Catholic education for secondary children has been provided in Fife since 1922 when a school 

opened in Cowdenbeath under the name of St Columba’s High School. This school was a senior 

secondary school for pupils from all over Fife and a junior secondary for pupils local to that area. 

A number of other junior secondary schools were also established in each of the areas which 

now make up our catchment area. Some of these schools, such as St Peter’s in Kennoway, later 

closed down when a new comprehensive system of schools was established in Fife, while others 

(for example, St Marie’s in Kirkcaldy), are now primary schools. 

In 1959, the new St Andrew’s High School opened in Overton Road, Kirkcaldy. It replaced St 

Columba’s as the Catholic senior secondary school for Fife, with the Cowdenbeath school reverting 

to a junior secondary. Of course, this meant that buses came to the school from all parts of the 

county. A good illustration of this is given by our former pupil, John Bates, in a poem published in 

1990 which describes the melting pot of this new school and the expectations of our first pupils 

in what was then an ultra-modern building. At that time the school had capacity for around 1100 

pupils, although in those days there was no need for activity areas, computing rooms or other 

modern facilities. Our swimming pool, now dismissed by pupils as the “puddle” was the envy 

of other schools. 

As the school roll climbed and the buildings struggled to cope with the numbers in the school, 

temporary annexes were added all of which were removed in 2009 after the completion of our 

new extension. The local authority’s support for the provision of larger comprehensive schools 

led to a further re-arrangement in the early 70’s. St Columba’s, by now in its new school base in 

Dunfermline, became the Catholic comprehensive serving a growing population in West Fife, with 

St Andrew’s becoming the comprehensive High School serving East and North Fife. 

Headteachers and staff 

The loyalty of staff to the community of St Andrew’s High School has been a particularly outstanding 

feature of the school’s history. Some staff came to the school in the sixties or seventies and stayed 

for very long periods. Some former pupils were very keen to return to teach in their old school. 

To this group has been added a constant turnover of other teachers, from Fife and elsewhere, who 

have brought fresh ideas and new skills to a stable and happy community. The commitment of 

staff to their pupils and to the aims of the school has always been exemplary. 

In its time, St Andrew’s High School has had only five Rectors (or Headteachers). The first was 

Mr Hugh Tuckerman, who was already head in Cowdenbeath when the new building opened in 

Kirkcaldy in 1959. He established the school in its Kirkcaldy site and supervised its development, 

retiring in 1978. He was replaced by a serving Assistant Head, Mr Charles Murray, a former 

Head of History and a scholarly man who saw the school through the fundamental changes of 

the eighties before retiring in 1988. Mr Anthony Finn, who arrived from Ayrshire in 1988, saw the 

school through a number of changes. He left our school in May 2006 to take up a post as a Senior 

Manager with Fife Council’s Education Department before moving to the General Teaching Council 

in September 2008 as Chief Executive. Mrs Kathleen Kennedy was appointed Acting Headteacher 

until Mrs Audrey May took up her post in August 2006. In October 2009 Mrs Kathleen Kennedy 

was once again appointed as Acting Headteacher following Mrs Audrey May’s departure to a 

new Headteacher post in Perth. Mr Patrick Callaghan, the school’s current Headteacher took up 

his post in April 2010. 

In December 2009 we celebrated 50 years on our present site in Overton Road, Kirkcaldy. 


6

Introduction 

Any questions? 

Most parents have a number of questions about a school which they would like to ask. Elsewhere 

in this booklet you will find information about the arrangements for transfer, about meetings with 

parents, school dress, buses and the curriculum. Here are a few other questions which are asked 

frequently by parents who are new to St Andrew’s High School. 

If you want to discuss your child’s special needs, contact the school and we will make an 

appointment for you. 

Q. What do I do if I have a problem which might affect the education of my child at St 

Andrew’s? 

A. We aim to provide a caring but challenging atmosphere in which every pupil feels secure and 

well-cared for. Consequently, we would urge you to contact the school if you are worried about 

any aspect of your child’s work here or if there is something happening outwith class or school 

which could have an effect on his or her education. In most cases you should contact the relevant Guidance 

teacher. In more serious cases you could contact the Depute Head with responsibility for the year group 

or the Headteacher himself. 

Finally, if your child has any special medical problem, please let us know about it as soon as you can. We 

try to help whenever we can and we have experience in dealing with quite a wide range of problems. 

Q. My child was good at sport/music in primary. Can this be continued in secondary school? 

Certainly. Indeed, our record in these areas is very good indeed, with individuals and teams or 

groups winning prestigious awards every year. Any child who is interested in this type of work is 

encouraged to participate. 

Q. My child has additional support needs. How can you help him/her? 

A. We have a team of Support teachers who are very skilled in helping children to overcome 

all types of difficulties in their learning. They visit primary schools, gather information and hold 

discussions before pupils enrol in St Andrew’s. They are therefore well placed to offer advice to 

staff and parents on the pupil’s needs in secondary school. (See chapter 7) 

Q. Is there anywhere for children to go on wet days? 

A. When the weather is very cold or wet, pupils are allowed to occupy certain areas of the bottom 

corridor of the main building. On warmer days, however, they are encouraged to get some fresh 

air outside. We have extensive grounds and there is plenty of room outside. 

7 

Handbook 2011


Like most other schools we do not have leisure areas which pupils can use unsupervised inside 

the school. We do, however, have a number of clubs which meet at lunchtime and the Sports Hall 

is extremely popular at that time. 

Q. I’m worried about trouble on school buses and bullying in school. How does the school deal 

with these issues? 

A. Unfortunately, every school has to face problems like these from time to time. However, we 

are normally able to deal successfully with those which do occur. 

We act quickly and confidentially on every incident reported to us. On buses we rely on information 

from drivers, from parents and particularly from our older pupils. In the school itself senior staff 

monitor all areas of the school as far as they can. S5/6 Prefects assist by accepting special duties in 

the dining hall and other areas around the school. We also have a bullying programme and a very 

successful peer mediation scheme. If, despite this, any children feel worried or fearful, we strongly 

encourage them to speak to their Guidance teacher, or, if they prefer, to any other teacher. 

If you are worried about any such incident, simply phone the school and share your fears with us. 

We promise to take action promptly and to respect confidentiality. 

Q. What standards do you expect of your pupils? 

A. We ask our pupils to work hard in order that they may achieve their full potential in all aspects 

of school life. We expect them to adopt a good attitude to their work both at school and at home, 

to participate fully in the life of the school and to treat all members of the school community with 

respect and courtesy. We also expect them to attend regularly and punctually and to identify with 

the school in their dress. 

To ensure that pupils achieve high standards, we set work which is challenging but appropriate 

to their level; we set individual targets; and we monitor progress carefully. If our pupils live up 

to these expectations they will maintain the good name of St Andrew’s RC High School and bring 

credit to their families. 

Q. I can’t always come to parents’ meetings. Can I still find out about my child’s progress? 

A. Yes, of course. If you let us know we will try to make special arrangements for you. Perhaps you 

could visit the school at another time or keep in touch with Guidance staff by telephone. 

Q. What can I do if I am unhappy about some aspect of the school’s provision? 

A. The school tries to be as helpful and understanding as possible in our dealings with parents 

and problems are normally resolved quickly in school. The Council has however adopted a 

complaints procedure to ensure that all concerns are dealt with fairly and promptly. Further details 

are available in all school and council offices. 


8


Our catchment area 

St. Andrew's R C High School is a six year comprehensive Catholic High School serving the 

eastern half of Fife. It has a wide catchment area, extending from Burntisland to Lochgelly, Cupar 

and St. Andrews. In addition, it attracts a number of placing requests from other Fife towns. The 

school draws pupils from many different backgrounds, including a growing number of children 

of other religious faiths. 

Our associated primary schools 

Although we have good links with many Fife primary schools, there are seven schools with which 

we are closely associated. These schools are listed below. 

St. Marie’s RC Primary, Kirkcaldy 

St. Agatha’s RC Primary, Leven 

St. Paul’s RC Primary, Glenrothes 

St. Patrick’s RC Primary, Lochgelly 

St. Ninian’s RC Primary, Cardenden 

St. Columba’s RC Primary, Cupar 

Greyfriars RC Primary, St. Andrews 

Mrs M Caldwell, Headteacher 

Mrs L Smith, Headteacher 

Mr J Mooney, Headteacher 

Miss C Clarke, Headteacher 

Mr J Hutcheon, Headteacher 

Ms J Boggan, Headteacher 

Mrs C Nash, Acting Headteacher 

The Kingdom of Fife 

Handbook 2011 

9


Our accommodation and situation 

The school is situated at the top end of Overton Road in Kirkcaldy, near the junction with Dunnikier 

Way and the Asda Supermarket. The main building on three floors dates from 1959. Behind the 

school there are extensive playing fields, a sports hall and our new extension completed in 

December 2008. The school buildings are well-maintained and equipped with modern technology 

in use in every department. Our Craft, Design and Technology classrooms were refurbished in the 

summer of 2009, this followed the refurbishment of a Science classroom earlier in the year. 

Directions 

Our roll 

The school roll for the current session is 791 

The current roll for each year group is: 

S1 163 

S2 131 

S3 150 

S4 143 

S5 105 

S6 99 

Total 791 

School begins at 8.55 am and ends at 3.30 

pm. There are six teaching periods every day 

for all year groups. The daily timetable looks 

like this: 

The structure of our day 

Assembly/Registration 8.55 to 9.07 

Period 1 9.07 to 10.00 

Period 2 10.00 to 10.53 

Break 10.53 to 11.08 

Period 3 11.08 to 12.01 

Period 4 12.01 to 12.54 

Lunch 12.54 to 1.44 

Period 5 1.44 to 2.37 

Period 6 2.37 to 3.30 


10


Term dates and holidays 

School Calendar SESSION 2011/12 

Date 

Event 

August 15 Teachers return: In-Service day 

16 Pupils return 

October 7 October holiday starts (3.30) 

24 School re-opens 

November 18 In-Service day 

December 23 Christmas holiday starts (lunchtime) 

January 9 In-Service day 

10 School re-opens to pupils 

February 15 In-Service day 

16 Holiday 

17 Holiday 

March 30 Spring holiday starts (3.30) 

April 16 School re-opens 

May 7 Holiday 

June 4 Holiday 

5 In-Service day 

28 Summer holiday begins (lunchtime) 

Handbook 2011 

11


Communicating with parents 

We try to keep parents well -informed of events in the school, of changes in policy, of curriculum 

matters and of any factors related to the progress or development of their own children. In addition 

to regular letters about special events and activities, we publish our own very full newsletter 

for parents about every 7 weeks and we also have a regular column in the Fife Free Press. We 

also have a range of briefing papers for parents about aspects of school life (eg homework, 

dress); and we provide information sheets for each year group at the start of every session and 

information booklets at key points in a pupil’s education (eg S2 options, Standard Grade, S5 and 

S6). In addition, we supply special packages to coincide with other events affecting groups of 

pupils (Work experience, community placements, trips). 

Reports and formal meetings 

We try to ensure that parents receive information at times which is useful to their children and 

that they have every opportunity to discuss progress with us. Our school reporting system also 

allows parents an opportunity to make their own comments on the progress of their children (see 

also Chapter 5). 

First Year 

In the course of your child’s first year we will send you two reports . A progress report containing 

brief comments on how he/she has settled into school will be sent to you in October, with a more 

detailed report on progress issued in May. Towards the end of session a Parents’ Evening will be 

held, providing an opportunity to meet teachers and discuss progress. 

Second Year 

In this year the progress report will be issued in February, immediately before Parents’ Meetings 

during which the very important question of 3rd Year Options will be discussed. 

Third-Sixth Year 

Progress reports are issued at appropriate times and there is a full programme of parents’ meetings. 

The S3 meeting normally takes place in October with meetings for S4 in January and S5/6 in 

November. 

Keeping in touch 

• Any parent who feels his/her child is experiencing difficulty in school is invited to phone the 

school and arrange a discussion or meeting with his/her Guidance Teacher or year group 

head. 

• Every month subject staff review progress of pupils and may decide to send out letters 

praising pupil performance or indicating areas of concern. 

• All teachers are asked to report to the Guidance staff any child who is experiencing difficulty 

or causing problems in school. Parents may then be invited to come to school to discuss 

how appropriate help may be given. 

Contacting the school 

Please note that it is normally advisable for parents to phone the school if they are worried about 

any aspect of their children’s education and to make an appointment before coming to school. It 

can be very disappointing if you are unable to see a Guidance teacher or Depute Headteacher 

because he or she is with a class at the time of your arrival, especially if you had to travel some 

distance to come to school. 


12


The community 

Our links with the community 

Although the school has a very wide catchment area, we try to keep in close contact with the areas 

from which our students are drawn, with their parents and with local industry and community 

groups. 

Of course, we have a strong advantage in the very positive links we have with Church parishes 

throughout our area. In addition, community use of the school’s facilities is available every night; 

our mini-bus is widely used by local organisations; and we are actively involved in various local 

community groups. 

Some of our senior pupils undertake service to the community through links with local clubs, 

through Young Enterprise and other Schemes and through work and community placements for 

SQA exams. All pupils in S4, and an increasing number in S5 and S6, are given the chance to 

have a work placement during the school term. 

Local College Links 

Our school has excellent links with our local colleges, the Adam Smith and Elmwood. Increasingly 

we are developing joint progammes for some of our pupils to meet their vocational needs. 

Our facilities for adult students 

The school has established a good reputation in our community for the provision we can make 

for adult students. Currently, a group of senior citizens known as ‘Silver Surfers’ enjoy the support 

of our Staff and S6 pupils in improving their ICT skills. 

In addition, our community education provision is thriving with various classes now offered in 

our school. 

Pupils and Silver Surfers 

Pupils working with Elmwood College 

Handbook 2011 

13


Other activities 

Our extra-curricular activities 

The distance some children travel to school could create difficulties for some extra-curricular 

activities which traditionally take place in the evenings. We are, however, very conscious of our 

aim to foster community spirit and, consequently, the school generally offers a range of pursuits 

which seek to widen and enrich pupils’ experience. Of course, the number of activities offered 

varies from year to year and depends largely on the interests of staff and pupils. We normally 

expect, however, to be able to offer a number of activities, such as the following: 

Art club 

Badminton 

Basketball 

BigBand 

Chess 

Choir 

Church music 

Computer Club 

CC4G 

Craft Club 

Dance 

Debating 

Drama 

Environment Club 

Food Club - S2 

Football 

French Study Support 

German Homework Club 

Guitar Group 

Gymnastics 

Homework/Study Skills 

Junior Book Club 

Magazine/Year Book 

Maths Club & Activity Days 

Netball 

Pushkin Prize Club 

Religious retreats 

Running Club 

Samba Band 

School trips abroad 

Science Club 

Ski Lessons 

String Orchestra 

Swimming 

Table tennis/Dodgeball 

Technology Club 

Visits to Sporting Events 

Visits to Theatres, Art Galleries and 

Museums 

Volleyball 

Woodwind Group 

Worldwide Quiz Team 

Young Enterprise 

Some of these activities take place in the school day (at lunch time) while others take place outwith 

school hours. Parental consent is of course required before pupils can participate in some of the 

activities listed. 

Our exchanges with Germany 

The school has an arrangement with Kirkcaldy’s twin town Ingolstadt in Bavaria, for an annual 

exchange of pupils. One year a group of pupils visits Ingolstadt as the guests of pupils in the Apian 

Gymnasium and lives in the homes of these pupils, the following year pupils in this school are 

the hosts of a reciprocal visit. 


14

Chapter 3 People and Posts 

Pupils have to meet a lot of new faces when they come to secondary school, but they do seem to adjust fairly 

quickly! This section aims to help parents to get to know the names of key individuals in the school. The 

pictures on this page may be either a help or a hindrance, so you may prefer just to look at our names! 

The Senior Staff 

The senior staff of the school, known as the Senior Leadership Team, is led by Mr P Callaghan. This school 

leadership team comprises the Head, three Depute Headteachers and the Business Manager who, as a 

team ensure the smooth running of the school for pupils, staff and parents. 

The Headteacher is, of course, responsible for all aspects of the school's organisation, curriculum and 

leadership. The Senior Leadership Team works, however, as a team with each member given certain areas 

of responsibility. Our Depute Heads, Mr Wood, Mr W Sloan and Mrs D Maloney have specific areas of 

responsibility. For example, Mr Sloan organises the transfer of pupils from primary to secondary school, Mrs 

Maloney co-ordinates the school's links with the Scottish Qualifications Authority, Mr Wood is responsible 

for all aspects of Support for pupils in collaboration with the Senior Leadership Team. The Deputes also 

have responsibility for supervising the work of a stage of the school. At present Mr Sloan is responsible for 

S1 and S6, Mr Wood for S2/S3 and Mrs Maloney for S4 & S5. Mr Funnell, Business Manager is responsible 

for the resources within the school. 

Mr Funnell, Mr Wood, Mr Callaghan, Mr Sloan, Mrs Maloney 

The Guidance Team 

Guidance staff have a special responsibility to ensure that each child feels secure, works well and 

contributes positively to the school. Our Guidance team is led by Mr Wood and includes six Principal 

Teachers of Guidance. Each child is allocated to a Guidance teacher in first year and is supported by the 

same teacher throughout his or her school career. In addition, guidance classes meet in groups with their 

registration teacher at the start of each day. This teacher builds up a close relationship with pupils and is 

able to help the Guidance teacher identify problems or matters of concern. 

The School’s Guidance teachers are Mr P Glacken, Mrs J Tait, Miss N Ward, Miss S Hirschfeld, 

Ms C Bathie and Miss V Ferguson. 

15 

Handbook 2011


The staff 2010/2011 

SENIOR LEADERSHIP TEAM 

Mr P Callaghan HT 

Mr K Funnell BM 

Mrs K Kennedy DHT **** 

Mrs D Maloney DHT 

Mr W Sloan DHT 

Mr G Wood Acting DHT * 

ADMINISTRATION DEPARTMENT 

Miss A Dickson Administrative Co-ordinator 

Mrs J Cunningham Clerical Assistant *** 

Mrs J Greig Clerical Assistant # 

Ms J Paisley Administrative Assistant 

Mrs C Sheridan WP/e1 Operator 

Miss M Taylor WP/e1 Operator 

Mrs E Thorbjornsen Clerical Assistant #/*** 

Mrs F Wallace Clerical Assistant 

Mrs S Wood Clerical Assistant #/***/### 

BUSINESS EDUCATION DEPARTMENT 

Mrs I Brown PTC Business Education 

Mr I Gibson 

Miss N Ward PT Guidance 

Mr G Wood Acting DHT * 

Mrs J Wood # 

CDT DEPARTMENT 

Mr J Armstrong 

Miss K Czudek 

Mr P Glacken 

Ms A Schulz 

PT CDT 

PT Guidance 

TIS 

EXPRESSIVE & PERFORMING ARTS 

(Art & Design and Music) 

Ms D Smith PTC Expressive & Performing Arts ** 

Mrs F Young PTC Expressive & Performing Arts ** 

Ms M Davel # 

Miss M Dowlman 

Mr R Hardy 

Mrs F Tough 

ENGLISH DEPARTMENT 

Mrs A Macfie PT English 

Ms T Darmudas 

Mrs K Gibb 

Miss S Hirschfeld PT Guidance* 

Mr L Hayes * 

Mrs K Kelsey 

Miss N Kirk * 

Mrs K Kennedy DHT **** 

Ms C Lynch ** 

Mrs M Smith PT 

Mr D Gilmartin TIS 

GUIDANCE TEAM 

Mr P Glacken PT Guidance 

Mrs J Tait 

PT Guidance 

Miss N Ward PT Guidance 

Miss C Bathie PT Guidance * 

Miss V Ferguson PT Guidance * 

Miss S Hirschfeld PT Guidance * 

Mrs D Waddell HSLO 

HEALTH AND WELLBEING 

(Home Economics and Physical Education) 

Mrs D Robertson PTC Health & Wellbeing 

Mr K Blyth 

Miss Boyle 

Mrs L Burgess # 

Miss A Laing 

Mr M Makhouli ## 

Mrs P Miller 

Miss M Webster 

JANITORS TEAM 

Mr P Allan 

Ms K Cowan 

Mr S Wilson 

LIBRARIAN 

Mrs M Caldwell 

MATHEMATICS 

Mr P Creanor 

Mrs AM Callaghan 

Mrs L Corbett 

Mr R Miller 

Mr L Rhone 

Mrs J Tait 

Miss C Taylor 

PTC Mathematics & Numeracy 

PT 

PT Guidance 

MODERN LANGUAGES . 

Mr G Mullay PT Modern Languages . 

Mrs R Carroll . 

Miss A Doherty **** 

Mrs A Jackson * 

Mrs D Maloney DHT 

Ms AM McBride # 


16

People and Posts 

PUPIL SUPPORT DEPARTMENT 

Mrs J Robertson Acting PT LSS 

Mrs S O’Reilly PT Behaviour Support 

Ms A Skaber * 

Mrs D Richardson # 

Miss A Thomson ## 

Mrs A Barr Pupil Support Assistant #/*** 

Mrs A Campbell Pupil Support Assistant #/*** 

Mrs E Cattroll Pupil Support Assistant *** 

Mrs S Cross Pupil Support Assistant ***/* 

Mrs M Hunter Pupil Support Assistant *** 

Mrs C Smith Pupil Support Assistant ### 

Mrs H Stewart Pupil Support Assistant #/*** 

Mrs F Thomson Pupil Support Assistant ***/* 

Mrs E Thorbjornsen Pupil Support Assistant #/*** 

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION 

Mrs Y Lynch PTC RE & International Education 

Mrs M De Soyza # 

Miss V Ferguson PT Guidance * 

Mr W Sloan DHT 

SCIENCE 

(Biology, Chemistry and Physics) 

Dr D Sinclair PT Curriculum Science 

Mr D Boulton * 

Mr J Callaghan 

Mrs J Forrest 

Miss L Higgins TIS 

Mrs C MacDonald 

Ms S Michaels 

Mrs A Mulholland # 

SOCIAL SUBJECTS 

(Geography, History and Modern Studies) 

Mrs A MacKenzie PTC Social Subjects 

Ms L Kelly PT Modern Studies 

Miss C Bathie PT Guidance * 

Mr S Carroll TIS 

Mr I Main 

Ms J O’Boyle 

Mrs S Waddington ### 

TECHNICIANS 

Mr A Addison 

Mr B Findlay 

Mr J Mackie 

Mr P Watson 

Senior Technician 

CAREERS OFFICER 

Mrs N Curran 

FAMILY WORKER 

TBC 

PSYCHOLOGIST 

Mrs M Docherty 

Mr A Brown 

SCHOOL NURSE 

Mrs L Gillespie 

SOCIAL WORKEr 

Mr J Kouyoumdjian 

KITCHEN STAFF 

Mrs V Paterson 

Mrs M Cunningham 

Mrs K Greer 

Mrs B McAndrew 

Mrs F Payne 

Mrs H Peattie 

Mrs L Sharp 

Mrs J Veiga 

KEY 

HT Headteacher 

DHT Depute Headteacher 

BM Business Manager 

PT Principal Teacher 

TIS Teacher Induction Scheme 

HSLO Home School Link Officer 

* Temporary 

** Job Share 

*** Term Time 

**** Career Break 

# Part Time 

## Temporary Part Time 

### Maternity Leave 

#### Secondment 

Handbook 2011 

17


People 

Support services 

The school has very strong links with various outside support agencies. Perhaps the most important of 

these are our regular visitors from Skills Development Scotland, Psychological Services and Intergrated 

Community Schools, Police, Social Work and the Health Board. These are important and very 

committed members of our school community and are only too happy to help parents at any time. 

Our Parent Council 

The school has the support of a Parent Council which takes a constructive interest in school events, 

curriculum and organisation. 

Our Parent Council members are: 

Mrs A Allison (Church representative) 

Mr P Callaghan (Headteacher) 

Mrs K Campbell 

Mrs A Cook 

Miss A Dickson (Clerk to the Parent Council) 

Mrs A Davison 

Mr P Gilfillan 

Mr R Graham 

Mrs J Higgins 

Miss K Irvine 

Cllr. George Kay 

Mr Kelleher 

Mrs Kelleher 

Mrs S Kinnear 

Mrs R Liewald (Secretary) 

Mr B MacFarlane 

Mrs D Maloney (Depute Headteacher) 

Mr M McArdle (Chairperson) 

Mrs A McCormack 

Mrs T Preston 

Mrs H Rudden 

Mr G Sweeney (Vice Chairperson) 

Mr Wallace 

Mrs Wallace (Treasurer) 

Mrs C Wallace 

Miss N Ward 

Council meetings take place in the school and are open to the public. The Council can be contacted 

by letter or telephone through the school. 

Our School Council 

In St Andrew’s High School we also try to give pupils a say. There is a year committee for each year 

group from S1-6 where each registration class is represented. The pupils are elected by their fellow 

pupils. In the year committee, the pupils discuss matters of interest and concern to their own year 

group and we encourage them to bring forward ideas for improving the school. Two elected members 

from each year committee pass more general or whole school issues to the pupil council which sits 

with Mr Sloan and Mr Callaghan. 


18

The School Curriculum 

The curriculum 

How we plan the curriculum 

Planning teaching and learning 

Every school must regularly review what it teaches. In St Andrew’s RC High School we try to look 

carefully at what we teach and at the methods we use to present it. We spend a great deal of time 

discussing, analysing and planning our curriculum for pupils. Our main aim in this complicated 

exercise is, however, quite simple: to ensure that the school provides a curriculum which allows 

children of all abilities to learn as effectively as they can and to be involved in their learning 

wherever possible. 

Assessment as part of learning 

Our assessment policy (see chapter 5) aims to diagnose pupils’ strengths and weaknesses, to 

encourage them to identify strategies for improvement and to provide meaningful feedback on 

their performance. 

Religious Education 

The Religious Education course allows pupils to explore their developing feelings and attitudes in a 

constructive and supportive framework. While overtly Christian in nature, the course also considers 

other world religions. The programme is complemented by a range of liturgical experiences, 

religious events, visits and charitable activities which occur throughout the session. 

PSE 

A course in Personal and Social Education helps pupils to address issues affecting relationships, 

study skills, health, drugs etc. 

Equal opportunities 

We believe in ensuring that both boys and girls are given a fair opportunity to develop their interests, 

skills and abilities. Consequently, all courses in the school are open to boys and girls. 

First and second year 

All pupils currently follow a common course which consists of the subjects listed below. The 

number of periods allocated to each subject in each of S1 and S2 is also given. This provision is 

currently being reviewed as the school responds to the challenge of implementing Curriculum 

For Excellence. 

Subject S1 S2 

English 4 4 

Maths 4 4 

History 

} 

Geography 3 3 

Modern St. 

French/German 3 3 

Science 3 3 

ICT 1 1 

PSE 1 1 

P. E. 2 2 

Art 2 2 

Tech. Ed. 0 3 

Home Econ 3 0 

RE 2 2 

Music 2 2 

Total 30 30 

Appropriate and challenging 

courses 

In S1 there is mixed ability teaching in all subjects except 

Maths. Teachers use modern, relevant and challenging 

materials which motivate pupils to achieve standards 

appropriate to their ability. Pupils are however set by ability 

in Maths in the Autumn of S1 and setting is extended to 

English in S2. All other subjects are taught in mixed ability 

groups in S2. 

Handbook 2011 

19


S1 and S2 

Support for Pupils 

All pupils may at times experience some difficulty with the curriculum and may benefit from the 

specialist help given by our Learning/Behaviour Support Service. To ensure continuity one Learning 

Support teacher works with a class throughout S1 & S2, helping in a number of different subject 

areas to allow pupils to receive more immediate assistance. This support is based on primary 

liaison information and advice given to staff about the learning needs of S1 pupils. This is updated 

for subsequent years as pupils progress through the school. 

Planning the curriculum 3-16 

The school has strong links with our associated primary schools. Regular visits between staff at all 

levels are encouraged and planning meetings take place throughout the year. Discussion on the 

curriculum is a very important feature of meetings with primary colleagues since we are committed 

to achieving a coherent curriculum 3-18. 

Together with our associated primary schools we are developing our thinking for planning and 

implementing the Curriculum for Excellence. For the moment, the emphasis is on Literacy, 

Numeracy, Health and Wellbeing and Modern Languages with joint initiatives for these curricular 

areas. 

Practical course work 

The nature of coursework has changed in most subjects: classwork is more practical and relevant 

to today’s world. Pupils are encouraged to develop skills such as problem-solving, investigation or 

other practical skills. This pattern is evident not just in traditionally practical subjects but also in 

Languages, Social Subjects and Mathematics. The teacher not only teaches the class as a whole but 

tries to provide individual challenges for pupils working at different levels within the classroom. 

Language choice 

At present either French or German is studied in S1 and S2. Both languages are very useful to 

pupils wishing to work anywhere in Europe and either will provide a sound base for further study 

or employment. Based on previous study in primary or any known family preference, the school 

will normally allocate pupils to appropriate S1 classes. Nonetheless, parents may, if they wish, 

advise the school of which language they would like their child to study. However, it is not always 

possible to provide the opportunity of continuing with the language studied at primary. 

Please note too that all pupils are given a chance to pick up a second language. 

Curriculum enhancement 

The new Catholic course in Moral and Sex Education is offered as part of the RE and PSE curriculum. 

In S1/S2 each pupil is currently programmed for one period of Information and Communication 

Technology each week. This carefully constructed course aims to equip pupils with the skills they 

need to use ICT well in later life. The school is at present looking at ways to increase the element 

of choice, especially as pupils progress to S2. 

Option choices 

In Spring, S2 pupils are given a chance to choose subjects for S3. The final choice follows careful 

preparation and full consultation with parents. Details of the curriculum followed by S3 pupils 

are given overleaf. 


20


S3 and S4 

The middle years (S3 and S4) 

The core 

All pupils at this important stage follow courses in English, Mathematics, Religious Education, 

Physical Education and Personal and Social Education. 

A programme of Guidance for all pupils is in operation and the Religious Education programme 

at this stage seeks to develop a Christian understanding of a student’s emerging rights and 

responsibilities as a member of society. Aspects of health education and of personal and social 

development are also included. 

The option list which pupils face nowadays is perhaps more predetermined than was once the 

case. The core of subjects given above accounts for 40% of the school week. The remaining 60% 

is allocated to pupil choices, but the options are carefully planned to ensure that the curriculum 

is balanced and flexible, that is, that it covers all the key areas of education which pupils might 

need in the future. In practice, this means all pupils in S3/4 choose one subject from within 

certain categories: 

- a Science subject 

- a Social subject 

- a Technological subject 

- a Creative & Aesthetic subject 

- one free choice 

A Curriculum for Excellence 

This session staff are looking at new and exciting ways to enhance pupils’ learning experience by 

developing more rich tasks and cross-cutting themes to allow our school to deliver Curriculum 

for Excellence. We also plan to increase our college links to improve the delivery of vocational 

skills. 

21 

Handbook 2011


National exams 

In the years to come all schools in Scotland will be introducing the new qualifications but for the 

present all third and 4th year pupils follow two year courses leading to examination at Standard 

Grade or for National Qualifications. It is possible to study up to 8 subjects at these levels. To 

encourage them to achieve high standards, pupils negotiate individual targets with each teacher. 

This helps them to work out strategies to reach their full potential. In some departments, pupils 

follow intermediate courses in S3and S4, rather than Standard Grade, as these courses are better 

suited to meet pupils needs in these areas. 

Standard grade 

Standard Grade courses allow all pupils to earn a certificate showing what they have achieved 

in school. Assessment takes account of both class work and examination performance and 

there is considerable stress on work undertaken by pupils in class. In most subjects pupils will 

be expected to complete a report, an assignment or some element of practical work which will 

count for a significant proportion of the marks awarded. It is therefore important that they treat 

their classwork seriously. 

Awards are made on a single scale with bands from 1 (the top band) to 7. Pupils who are very 

good at a particular subject are likely to follow a CREDIT course, which is the most difficult level. 

GENERAL level will be suitable for pupils in the middle range of ability and FOUNDATION level 

will be the most basic level for pupils. Pupils following different courses may, in some subjects, 

be taught together with the level of presentation for national examination being determined at an 

appropriate point in the two year course. 

Work Experience 

Pupils in S4 are given the opportunity to enjoy a placement in local industry. They are thoroughly 

prepared for this experience by our staff who help them to understand the world of work which 

awaits them when they leave school. This placement forms part of a coherent programme of training 

for adult life called AWARE. Several other work experience and work shadowing schemes are 

normally available to all pupils and the programme can lead to the award of an SQA certificate. 

Subject departments are encouraged to include in their courses work related to the needs of 

industry. Some invite local industrialists to help support their courses. Others include industrial 

components in their courses. 

Personal and Social Education 

The school’s PSE programme addresses the needs of pupils as they begin to face the challenges 

of the adult world. Relationships and responsibility for decisions made are important issues at 

this stage. 

The school also has an extensive careers education programme which helps pupils to prepare 

for the difficult choices which face them in today’s society. As part of this process we try to help 

students to understand their own strengths and weaknesses and to draw up an Action Plan to help 

them meet reasonable targets for future achievement. 


22


S5 and S6 

Choice of subjects for S5/S6 

Pupils returning to school after the age of 16 will normally be given a chance to choose subjects 

for fifth year (after consultation with Guidance staff) in June of their fourth year. A major conference 

for senior students is normally organised after the completion of the SQA exam diet and a meeting 

and booklet advise parents and pupils of the issues which should be taken into account in their 

choices. 

The senior years (S5 and S6) 

National Qualifications 

National Qualifications, available to all pupils in the senior years, aim to build on previous learning 

and provide a coherent network of courses and group awards for students over the age of 16 in 

both schools and colleges. 

Levels & Groups 

Pupils in S5 can study up to five Higher courses. Some will study Intermediate courses, a level 

which builds on Standard Grade and can offer good preparation for later progress to Higher. In 

S6 pupils can continue with Higher and Intermediate courses or aim for Advanced Higher. If 

pupils choose their subject groups carefully they can also qualify for a Scottish Group Award at 

an appropriate level. 

It is possible for certain students to follow some courses in school and others in a partner college, such as 

Adam Smith College. 

Options 

Each pupil may choose up to 5 subjects from the option form (see Appendix 2). It is worth noting 

that the school’s ability to offer some subjects may depend on the number of pupils who wish to 

study them. 

Advanced Higher 

Classes run in subjects where sufficient demand is established and/or where the relevant department 

can make necessary arrangements for tuition/supervision. A good range of these courses is normally 

offered. 

Core 

All pupils in S5/S6 follow courses in Religious Education and Physical Education. English is a 

compulsory subject for all S5 pupils and for S6 pupils who have not already gained a suitable 

exam pass. Pupils are encouraged to continue the study of Mathematics into S5 wherever possible. 

At this stage the Religious Education course concentrates on ethical problems and can lead to 

presentation for an SQA award. Opportunities for work experience, for residential placement and 

for college or university visits occur throughout S5 and S6. 

23 

Handbook 2011


Assessment 

In St. Andrew’s RC High School we consider that Assessment is most usefully seen as an integral 

part of the learning process, not as a judgement coming at the end of the course. This means that 

detailed information is required on the strengths and weaknesses which are demonstrated in 

particular parts of the course. Consequently pupils and their parents are given good information 

and sound advice for future planning and study programmes. Although our assessment policy 

is highly regarded by parents and other schools, we may require to revise it from time to time to 

take account of developments such as the 5-14 Programme and the Higher Still Programme. 

Underpinning the school’s Assessment Policy are: 

1. A recognition that assessment should be as constructive and helpful as possible in 

assisting children’s learning. 

2. The belief that if children are clearly aware of what they have to do, then the great 

majority will try their best to achieve this. Each Department has therefore defined as 

clearly as possible the main skills and aspects of knowledge which children are 

expected to acquire during the course. 

3. The belief that if children have a clear idea of their level of achievement then they will 

generally try their best to improve this level, whatever it may be. To assist with this 

process each Department has defined attainment levels for each skill and aspect of 

their courses so that children can see clearly their strengths and weaknesses. 

4. The belief that assessment is an on-going process which requires careful collection of 

evidence of attainment at each stage. For children in S1/S2 there are profiles in each 

subject in which the main features of attainment are recorded. These profiles are 

important as an aid in the process of defining the learning targets which individuals 

might be expected to attain. In S3-S6 procedures are to a large extent determined by 

the Scottish Qualifications Authority, but the same general principles apply. Evidence 

of attainment in each of the skills assessed is collected, and in a number of subjects 

Folios of best work are submitted to the SQA as part of the assessment process. 

The school’s Assessment and Reporting Policy is designed to promote as far as possible a partnership 

between pupils, parents and the school so that the potential of every pupil is realised. As the school 

continues to develop and refine its Assessment Policy we hope that this partnership becomes ever 

more constructive. 


24

Assessment 

Reporting to parents 

Report forms 

Our report forms for each subject show, as far as possible, the skills assessed and the levels of 

attainment achieved. There are also spaces for recommendations on improving attainment and 

for comment on general learning skills, such as the ability to work individually and to follow 

instructions. 

Parents’ comments 

Attached to each set of report forms is a sheet for parents’ comments. This is an important part of 

the process because in the past parents’ comments on the kind and quality of information received 

have proved invaluable in helping the school plan its provision. We have no doubt that the same 

co-operation will be forthcoming in the future. 

Target Setting 

We are currently working with all pupils to set targets in their subjects. This process has in the 

past helped many pupils to focus clearly on their potential and to consider ways in which they 

might improve some aspects of their studies or their planning for Standard Grade or National 

Qualification exams. Although this is particularly important in S4-6, it is also an area we are 

developing more in S1-3. If pupils get into the habit of working well outwith school in their early 

years, they will do well in examinations and make progress which will improve their prospects in 

life. In partnership with parents, we will keep you informed about your child’s progress towards 

their targets so that you can support your child’s learning. 

Reports are issued at the following times: 

S1 

S2 

S3 

S4 

S5 

S6 

November and May 

February 

September and May 

December 

November and March 

November and March 

In recent years the school has tried to increase opportunities to advise parents about progress made 

by pupils. We have tried to introduce as part of our routine practice good news letters in which 

we highlight good practice and also letters in which we advise of causes for concern. 

25 

Handbook 2011



As you read through this book parents will notice that the school has a wide range of policies 

which deal with almost every aspect of the education which we plan for our pupils. Some of 

these policies, for example on assessment, on attendance and on Guidance, on the curriculum 

and on links with primary schools are dealt with elsewhere. 

In this chapter we try to pick up a few issues of policy which are not covered in detail in other 

parts of this booklet. All of these policies are designed to make the school work efficiently 

for the sake of our community as a whole. 

Encouraging positive attitudes 

Nearly all pupils attend school regularly and the general standard of discipline in the school 

is very good. Indeed, our aim is to encourage pupils to develop a positive attitude to their 

work, to other pupils, to adults and to the school community in general. We give a high 

priority therefore to recognising good behaviour and attitude in our pupils. We seek to praise 

them for their achievements in class and have introduced a series of rewards which recognise 

particularly good performance in class or in the school generally. Our Awards ceremony, 

which recognises the talents and achievements of many of our pupils, takes place in June. 

Promoting positive behaviour 

The school’s discipline procedures aim to encourage students to take responsibility for their 

own behaviour. A system of graded sanctions has been devised to provide each student with 

several opportunities to revise his/her mistakes before serious sanctions have to be considered. 

Most minor incidents in class will be dealt with by class teachers who will use a range of day 

to day sanctions, culminating in the issue of written consequences which will be seen and 

signed by parents. For most pupils no further action will be necessary. 

Working with parents 

Of course we depend on the support and understanding of parents in these important areas 

and are grateful for their help in encouraging pupils to behave properly. Our Guidance staff 

and Senior staff liaise regularly with parents to try to prevent patterns of misbehaviour emerging 

and to give maximum support to pupils experiencing difficulties in school. Nonetheless, some 

pupils will behave badly at times and the school, like any other, requires to have a code of 

practice for dealing with those pupils whose behaviour or attendance is unacceptable. 

More serious sanctions 

If a pattern of such incidents emerges or if a more serious incident occurs pupils will normally 

be referred to the Head of Department and, where necessary, to their Guidance teacher. 

Thereafter, if a pupil continues to misbehave or if a serious offence is committed, it is likely 

that the pupil will be referred to a Depute Head teacher who may consider more serious 

action. 


26


Parents will, of course, be kept informed of these developments and are likely to be asked to come 

up to school to discuss them with our staff. If, however, any pupil fails to respond to all reasonable 

warnings and sanctions he/she will normally be referred by the Depute Head to the Headteacher 

who will require to consider temporarily excluding the pupil from school. This sanction will only 

be used in a small number of cases and will lead to parents being asked to come into school to 

give a guarantee of future good behaviour. 

School Uniform 

School dress 

Senior Staff and Parent Council strongly encourage all pupils to identify with the school in their 

clothing. Since school security is enhanced by consistent dress standards and visitors often judge 

a school by the appearance of its pupils, we consider it important that all our pupils maintain high 

standards of dress. With this in mind we ask that all pupils come to school dressed neatly and 

respectably, avoiding items such as facial jewellery, jeans, leather jackets, casual clothes, football 

items and any clothes, badges or other items which can be insensitive or provocative. 

Following an extensive consultation with parents and pupils to improve our standard uniform our 

new school dress code was agreed. The items to be worn to school are: 

• A plain white school shirt 

• School tie 

• A plain black top which allows the tie to be seen 

• Black shoes/black trainers 

• Black trousers or skirt 

Senior pupils in S5/6 must wear a blazer when in and around the school. 

For PE pupils wear: 

• Black tracksuit bottoms 

• White t-shirt or polo shirt 

• A change of shoes or trainers because outdoor shoes cannot be used in the gym or the 

sports hall 

We have introduced our own black school tops for boys and girls. These are black, zipped, ribbed 

cardigans for girls (£18) and black, zipped fleece style tops for boys (£18). We also have a white 

polo shirt for PE (£5 for sizes up to 36; £7 for sizes 38 and over). All of these bear the name of 

our school. All the items, as well as junior ties (£2.50) and senior ties (£3.90), can be purchased 

through the school. 

Parents should note that Assistance with Provision of Clothing and Footwear may be available in 

certain cases. The Authority operates a scheme to provide clothing and footwear to ensure that 

a pupil is sufficiently clad to take full advantage of the education provided. Eligibility is related 

to parental income and parents wishing to apply for assistance should complete an application 

form which is available from the school or the Area Office, Fife Council, Wemyssfield, Kirkcaldy, 

KY1 1XW. 

27 

Handbook 2011


Homework & exams 

Homework policy 

For success in school and later life, it is important that pupils regularly review, prepare or extend 

classroom work through study outside school hours. Homework has a significant role in helping 

to acquire systematic habits of work and self-discipline. It is in the interest of pupils, parents and 

teachers to ensure that homework is tackled conscientiously. 

Parents will understand that the amount of homework given will vary according to the age, ability 

and curriculum of individual students. While the school’s policy is that all pupils should expect 

to be given homework regularly, it is likely that older pupils will carry a much heavier burden of 

homework than those in S1 and S2. 

It should be noted that changes in the curriculum have had a significant effect on the type of 

homework now set in secondary schools. Homework may involve, for example, learning, looking 

up materials in a library, trying out an investigation, listening to a programme or CD as well as 

writing an exercise or essay. Importantly, too, homework also involves study and revision at home, 

which encourages independent learning. 

If pupils fail to complete homework tasks they will normally be spoken to by teaching staff and 

Guidance staff who will ask them to consider the effect that continued lack of application at home 

could have on their studies. If there is no subsequent improvement, a letter will be sent to parents 

indicating our concern and asking for support. It would be helpful if any parent who receives 

such a letter could contact the school in order that any legitimate reasons for a child’s failure to 

complete homework tasks could be explored in more detail. 

To help pupils organise their work better we issue a study planner to all pupils. We would 

encourage all parents to consult this regularly, to talk to pupils about their homework and to sign 

the planner, where appropriate. 

Examination presentation policy 

The school’s policy is to present for public examinations all those pupils who have shown, by 

their progress over the year, that they have a reasonable chance of attaining an award. In some 

cases the school may consider it to be in the interests of a student to concentrate attention on a 

smaller range of subjects in order to optimise the chances of success. In such cases parents will 

be advised and an opportunity given to them to discuss the reason for our recommendation. If, 

however, after discussion with staff, parents still wish presentation to continue in a given subject, 

the school will normally comply with their wishes. 

Parents should note that the column structures may vary from year to year and therefore the current 

choice of subject combinations may be altered according to changing staff and accommodation 

conditions. 

Insurance 

Most children pass through secondary school without any major incident or problem. A few, 

however, are more prone to suffer accident or loss. The Council cannot, unfortunately, indemnify 

parents against such losses, particularly those which occur during sports or outside class time. 

Parents may wish to note that some home policies will provide a measure of cover for injury or 

losses sustained in school, while other policies covering involvement in school activities are now 

available from many insurance companies. In general, however, we advise that expensive items 

should not be carried to school. 


28

Chapter 7 Pupil Welfare 

Pupil welfare 

Attendance 

Pupils are asked to bring a note from parents to explain any absence from school and all such 

letters will be kept in school for reference. We would be grateful too if parents could advise us 

in advance if their children are likely to be absent from school. 

In the interests of their children’s education, parents should try to ensure that pupils do not lose 

school time without very good reason. Family holidays should, therefore, normally be arranged 

outwith term time. If this is not possible the school should be consulted. 

Legally, of course, parents are responsible for ensuring that their child attends school regularly. 

Where attendance patterns appear questionable, the Headteacher will ask the Home-School Link 

Officer to visit the home and discuss the problem with the parents. If thereafter, an unsatisfactory 

pattern persists, the Head teacher, following discussion with the Home-School Link Officer and 

other interested parties, will decide whether the case should be referred to the Children’s Reporter 

for serious prolonged problems of non-attendance. The Children’s Panel has powers to carry out 

the statutory responsibilities of the Authority with regard to defaulting parents. 

Guidance 

The practical care of pupils in school is the responsibility of all members of staff, who, as part 

of their teaching duties, work to promote maturity and increasing self reliance amongst pupils. 

As described in Chapter 3 this work is co-ordinated by our Acting Depute Head, Mr Wood, who 

leads our team of six Guidance teachers. Our Guidance team aims to help all pupils to make 

steady progress throughout their time at school. They provide help and advice at important stages 

and act as the initial contact for parents in school. 

On entering secondary school all pupils will be allocated to a Guidance group. They will remain in 

this group throughout their school career, under the care of designated members of staff, who will 

be available to support pupils in their attempts to cope with the difficulties that all can experience 

in growing up. Wherever possible, we try to ensure that each family of pupils is under the care of 

the same Guidance teacher, as this makes contact with the school easier for parents. 

Our Guidance team is responsible 

too for ensuring regular and 

effective liaison with other 

agencies and support services, 

including our associated primary 

schools, Home-School Link 

Officer, Social Work Department, 

the Children’s Panel, and the 

Police. We have established very 

good relationships with the Fife 

Careers Service and Psychological 

services who provide regular 

assistance and professional advice 

for individuals and groups. 

Guidance 

Handbook 2011 

29


Pupil Support 

The Pupil Support Department is staffed by specialist teachers. We believe that it is vital that Pupil 

Support is viewed as a service for all pupils in the school whether it be for receiving support or 

taking part in one of the new innovative cross curricular projects on offer within Pupil Support. 

Most pupils, at some point in their school career, experience difficulty coping with certain aspects 

of the curriculum. Some pupils will require more support than others. All pupils work with a Pupil 

Support teacher in class during S1 and S2; the Pupil Support teacher works cooperatively with a 

subject teacher to help ensure the needs of all pupils are met. This allows specialist input/advice 

in different subject areas. A small number of pupils may benefit from ‘direct tuition’ with a Pupil 

Support teacher, either individually or in a small group. 

To improve support for all pupils from Guidance and the traditional areas of Learning and Behaviour 

support, all Support staff are located together in an area in B Block in the school. This allows for 

closer liaison for those involved and fuller integration of the support provided, tailored to the 

needs of the individual pupils, helping to reduce any barriers to learning. 

Pupil Support has initiated involvement in: 

• Paired Reading 

• Reading Boost 

• ASDAN Awards 

• First Chances Project 

• VIEW Programme 

• Diversifire 

• Direct Tuition 

• In-class support 

• Pushkin Award 

• Rural Skills Course 

• One – one support 

We are part of a Support for Learning structure. This involves regular weekly meetings from all 

areas of Pupil Support, including Home School Link Officer, the designated Depute and outside 

agencies which can include: 

• Social Work 

• Integrated Community Schools 

• School Nurse 

• Pupil Support Service 

• Careers Advisor 

• Educational Psychological Services 

• Clued – Up 

• DAPL 

• Community Police 

• Clinical Psychological Services 

• PENUMBRA 

• Travellers Education 

• Young Carers 

The service that Pupil Support offers will develop and progress to ensure that the Scottish Executive’s 

Getting It Right For Every Child initiative is fully implemented. 


30

Pupil Welfare 

Medical Information 

Illness 

The school has a school nurse for a very small part of the school week. Therefore it is mainly 

trained first-aiders who deal with any minor emergencies. Pupils who take ill during the day, 

can be assessed by the first-aider and if necessary parents are contacted to enable the child to be 

taken home. 

Children who are clearly ill should not be sent to school. 

Accidents 

In the case of serious accidents every effort is made to contact parents or the named emergency 

contact. Pupils may be taken, or sent accompanied by ambulance, to a local hospital. 

Problems 

It is in the best interest of parents and pupils for the school to be informed of any medical problems 

which arise in the course of a child’s school career. These details will be handled sensitively and 

in confidence and will allow us to make appropriate provisions, as far as we can, for the child. 

Medicals 

At various times in the pupil’ s school life immunisations may be offered. Pupils and parents will 

be notified in advance. Dental treatment for school age children is available at the local Health 

Centre. 

Immunisations 

BCG is offered to all Second Year pupils between October and December. 

Booster doses of TETANUS and POLIOMYELITIS are offered to all Third Year pupils between 

February and May. 

Session 1999-2000 also saw the introduction of the vaccine for MENINGITIS C for pupils in S4, 

S5 & S6. 

All girls over 13 years will be offered immunisation against HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) 

It is expected that all parents should take advantage of these campaigns to ensure their children 

are fully protected. Consent Forms are issued in each case. 

33 

Handbook 2011


Equal Opportunities 

St Andrew’s RC High school has made considerable efforts to ensure that it offers, as far as possible, 

equality of opportunity to all pupils and staff. Discrimination in any form, be it in action or 

inaction, will not be tolerated. 

At St Andrew’s we view equality of opportunity in its widest form encompassing equal rights for 

all pupils, parents and staff irrespective of race, religion, culture, gender or disability. 

The aims of the school give equal opportunities a high profile and developments in this area are 

the responsibility of one of the Senior Leadership Team, Mrs D Maloney. 

Accessibility strategy 

The school has a duty to ensure that all our pupils have equal access to the curriculum, supported 

as appropriate to their individual needs. This covers not only the content of lessons and teaching 

strategies but also minor adaptations to the physical environment of our building to address the 

needs of pupils with physical or sensory impairments, including the relocation of classes to the 

ground floor where feasible. We also need to ensure that parents who have a disability have equal 

access to information about their children. This could involve, for example, relocating the venue 

for parents’ meetings to facilitate physical access at parents’ evenings or individual interviews; 

provision of an interpreter for the deaf; agreeing a telephone contact system to provide direct 

feedback to parents. 


34

Pupil Welfare 

MyFife/School Meals 

MyFife Card 

MyFife is an Entitlement Card introduced by Fife Council in partnership with the Scottish Executive. 

MyFife smart cards provide quick and easy access to services, including paying for school meals, 

school library membership and travelling on the school bus. MyFife also entitles pupils to a range 

of services and benefits outside school such as discounts with local retailers. 

School Meals 

Our school cafeteria provides full meals and a wide variety of snacks for our staff and pupils. We 

operate a cashless catering system within the school via the MyFife card. The MyFife system allows 

pupils to add money to their MyFife card, the card is then used to pay for items in the cafeteria. If 

the pupil is entitled to free school meals the money is automatically added to the card each day. 

The MyFife system removes any peer pressure associated with free school meals, we hope this 

will encourage everyone who can to take up this benefit. 

Free Meals 

We would encourage Parents/Carers who may be eligible to apply for free school meals for their 

son/daughter, this can be done at any Fife Council Local Office or by calling 08451 55 00 66. 

Pupils who bring their own packed lunch from home should take it in the Dining Hall along with 

other pupils. Special diets are available for medical reasons. Arrangements can be made with the 

Kitchen Supervisor through the Guidance Staff. 

Dinner Hall 

35 

Handbook 2011


Safety 

Health and safety 

Within the general policy laid down by Fife Council, the Education Service has prepared a series 

of statements of safety policy for all areas of its responsibility in accordance with the Health and 

Safety at Work Act 1974. School staff are fully instructed in their responsibilities in this respect, and 

safety regulations apply to all aspects of school life, both on and off the premises. It is expected 

that pupils will behave responsibly and comply with all safety requirements. The support of parents 

in promoting good practice in health and safety matters is of great importance to the school. 

Occasional and emergency arrangements 

From time to time the school will require to close early. In most cases the reason for an early closure 

will be known well in advance and parents will be given warning by letter in order to allow them 

to make any special arrangements which may be necessary for their children. 

Where the school has to close for emergency reasons or as a result of extremely bad weather, we 

will try to re-arrange transport for pupils who normally come to school by bus. In all such cases 

the school will take all reasonable steps to ensure that pupils are able to return home safely. It is 

worth noting too, that the Council uses Kingdom FM, Radio Forth, and Radio Tay to give information 

about problems affecting schools. The Council’s automated Winterline is available on 08451 55 

11 99 and information is available on the internet at www.fifedirect.org.uk/news. Staff, Pupils and 

Parents can register for text and e-mail alerts regarding school closures through this web-site. 


36

Pupil Welfare 

Getting to School 

School Transport 

Fife Council organises school transport for those pupils attending their local school. This provision 

is free if a pupil’s home lies within the school’s catchment area provided the distance between 

home and school, as measured by the shortest reasonable walking route, is more than two miles. 

Most of our pupils live outside this limit and are therefore eligible for free transport. The authority 

awards a contract to a bus company on the basis of a contract specifying the times of departure 

and arrival. As contracts are changed regularly, it is difficult to give certain information about the 

routes and times for 2011/2012 at this stage. The most recent schedules available at time of printing 

are detailed on pages 36-40 of this chapter and also published on the school’s website. 

Bus season tickets are issued wherever possible and may normally be used on school buses 

between 8.00 and 5pm. Where no suitable public transport is available, the authority is normally 

very good at arranging contract transport where necessary. Please note, however, that bus passes 

for one bus company are NOT valid for travel on buses of another company. If pupils have been 

involved in extra-curricular activities after normal school hours supplementary vouchers are issued 

by the school to enable them to travel on normal service buses. Myfife card must be shown along 

with Supplementary vouchers. 

Pupils who live more than one mile but less than two miles from the school and who are under 

14 years of age are eligible for Scholar Discount Ticket or Term Season Ticket which give a one 

third discount on the purchase cost of a four weekly season ticket. All requests for these should 

be addressed to the school. If a pupil loses a Myfife card, he/she must make application for a 

new one to the School Office. A replacement costs £5.00 for the first replacement then £5.00 

thereafter. Defaced pass replacements cost £5.00 and replacement of lost temporary pass costs 

£1.00. Remember MyFife Card also acts as the pupils’ bus pass. 

37 

Handbook 2011


PASSENGER TRANSPORT SERVICES: PUPIL TIMETABLE 

ST ANDREWS HS 

SCHOOL TRANSPORT ARRANGEMENTS 2008/13 

OPERATOR:- STAGECOACH in FIFE (TEL: 01592 757378/01383 511436) 

ROUTE:- Lochgelly/Jamphlars/Cardenden - St Andrews HS – SERVICE 234 

TIMETABLE 

Route Code/Service 234 A/234 

Travel Pass Colour 

Blue/Yellow 

Lochgelly, Kelty Jct. 0815 

Lochgelly,Auchterderran Rd 0819 

Jamphlars 0823 

Cardenden, Store 0829 

Cluny 0834 

St Andrews HS 0840 

Route Code 

A 

St Andrews HS depart 1535 

Cluny 1545 

Cardenden, Store 1553 

Jamphlars 1558 

Lochgelly, Auchterderran Rd 1601 

Lochgelly, Kelty Jct. 1605 

ROUTE DESCRIPTION 

Route Code A – Lochgelly, Viewfield Terr, Lumphinnans Rd, Main St, Bank St, 

Auchterderran Rd/B981/Cardenden Jamphlars Rd, Main St, Station Rd, Cardenden Rd @ 

Store/B981/Cluny/A910, Kirkcaldy, A92, A921, Thornton Rd, Dunnikier Way, Overton Rd, St 

Andrews HS 

PLEASE NOTE – Travel Passes Valid on this Service Blue from Lochgelly & Yellow 

from Cardenden. 


38

Pupil Welfare 


ST ANDREWS HS 


OPERATOR:- STAGECOACH in FIFE (Tel: GL - 01592 757378/ CO - 01383 511436) 

ROUTE:- 

Kinglassie / Cardenden - St Andrews HS 

TIMETABLE – 

Route Code/ Service No A/ 232/ GL D/ 234/ CO 

Travel Pass Colour Blue Yellow 

Glenrothes, Bus Station 0750 - 

Kinglassie, Sauchie St 0808 - 

Lochgelly, Kelty junction - 0815 

Lochgelly, Auchterderran Dr - 0819 

Jamphlars - 0823 

Auchterderran, Auld Hoose 0814 0825 

Dundonald, Dundonald Pk TC 0818 - 

Cardenden, Store 0821 0829 

Cluny - 0834 

Chapel Village, Turning Circle 0828 - 

Rosemount Ave, Rd End 0832 - 

St Andrews High School 0835 0840 

Route Code/ Service No/ Depot B/ 232/ CO C/ 232/ GL D/ 234/ CO 

Travel Pass Colour Blue Fares Yellow 

St Andrews HS depart 1535 1535 1535 

Rosemount Ave - 1540 - 

Rosemount Ave, Rd End 1540 - - 

Chapel Level for Robert Adam Dr 1542 - - 

Chapel Village, Turning Circle 1546 - - 

Cardenden, Store 1552 - 1553 

Dundonald, Dundonald Pk TC 1557 - - 

Auchterderran, Auld Hoose 1602 - 1558 

Kinglassie, Sauchie St. 1608 - - 

Glenrothes, Bus Station 1627 - - 

Lochgelly, Auchterderran Rd - - 1601 

Lochgelly, Viewfield Terrace - - 1603 


Route Code A - Glenrothes Bus Station/ Kinglassie, Sauchie St/ B921/ Woodend/ Auchterderran/ 

Dundonald, TC/ Cardenden, Store/ B981/ A910/ Kirkcaldy, Chapel TC, Broom Rd, Tummel Dr, 

Lindores Dr, Chapel Level, Dunnikier Way, Overton Rd,St Andrews HS . . . . .Kirkcaldy. 

Route Code B - As Route Code A in reverse from St Andrews HS (Pupils for Robert Adam Drive) 

Route Code C – St Andrews HS, Overton Rd, Dunnikier Way, Rosemount Ave. 

(Journey C is provided commercially by Stagecoach in Fife for fare paying passengers). 

Route Code D – Lochgelly, Kelty Junction, Auchterderran Rd/ Jamplars/ Cardenden, Auld Hoose, 

Main St, Station Rd, Store, Cardenden Rd/ B981/ Cluny/ A92/ Kirkcaldy, 

St Andrews HS 

G:\SEC1\TENDER\SPECSERV\PUPILTT\CF/08E6 

13 JANUARY 2011 

39 

Handbook 2011



ST MARIES PS/ ST ANDREWS HS 


OPERATOR:- Stagecoach in Fife (Tel: 01333 426038) 

ROUTE:- 

Burntisland/ Kinghorn/ Kirkcaldy, Seafield - St Maries PS 

TIMETABLE 

Route Code A C 

Burntisland, Aberdour Rd @ East Toll 0800 - 

Burntisland, Colinswell Rd 0805 - 

Burntisland, Cowdenbeath Rd 0807 

Burntisland, Harbour Pl 0810 - 

Burntisland, Kinghorn Rd 0815 - 

Kinghorn, Memorial 0822 - 

Kirkcaldy Railway Station 0830 - 

Seafield West Vows Walk opp Sandwell Cres - 0814 

Seafield East Vows Walk @ Inchview - 0819 

Kinghorn Rd - 0820 

Nicol St - 0825 

Dunnikier Rd - 0830 

St Maries PS/St Andrews HS 0840 0840 

Route Code B D 

St Maries PS 1505 - 

St Andrews HS - 1535 

Victoria Rd - 1538 

Nicol St 1520 1542 

Kinghorn Rd 1525 1545 

Seafield West Vows Walk opp Sandwell Cres 1526 

Seafield East Vows Walk @ Inchview 1530 - 

Kinghorn Memorial 1533 1548 

Burntisland, Kinghorn Rd 1542 1555 

Burntisland, Harbour Pl 1544 1600 

Burntisland, Aberdour Rd 1547 - 

Burntisland, Colinswell Rd 1549 1605 

Burntisland, Cowdenbeath Rd 1554 - 


Route Code A - Burntisland, Aberdour Rd/Church St/Colinswell Rd/Bendameer Rd/Kilmundy Rd/Piper Cres/ 

Dollar Rd/Cowdenbeath Rd/Cromwell Rd/High St/Harbour Pl/High St/Kinghorn Rd/A921/Kinghorn, Burntisland 

Rd/High St/St Leonard’s Pl/Bruce St/Bruce Terr/Kirkcaldy Rd/A921/Kirkcaldy, Kinghorn Rd/Bridge St/Pratt St/ 

Abbotshall Rd/Bennochy Rd/Victoria Rd/Nairn St/Millie St/St Clair St/McKenzie St/Overton Rd/ 

St Andrews HS 

Route Code B - St Maries PS/Overton Rd/Factory Rd/Nairn St/Victoria Rd/Bennochy Rd/Abbotshall Rd /Nicol 

St /Links St/Bridge St/Seafield East Vows Walk anticlockwise, West Vows Walk/A921/Kinghorn, Kirkcaldy 

Rd/Bruce Terr/Bruce St/St Leonard’s Pl/ High St/Burntisland Rd/A921/Burntisland, Kinghorn Rd/High 

St/Harbour Pl/High St/ Cromwell Rd/Aberdour Rd/Church St/Colinswell Rd/Bendameer Rd/Kilmundy Dr/Piper 

Cres/Dollar Rd / Cowdenbeath Rd 

Route Code C - Kirkcaldy, Seafield East Vows Walk anticlockwise, West Vows Walk/Kinghorn Rd/Bridge 

St/Links St/Nicol St/ Abbotshall Rd/Bennochy Rd/Hendry Rd/Meldrum Rd/Lina St/Balsusney Rd/Dunnikier 

Rd/Hayfield Rd/Beattie Cres/MacIndoe Cres/Overton Rd /St Maries PS 

Route Code D - St Andrews HS/Overton Rd/Factory Rd/Nairn St/Victoria Rd/Bennochy Rd/Abbotshall Rd/ 

Nicol St/Links St/Bridge St/Kinghorn Rd/A921/Kinghorn, Kirkcaldy Rd/Bruce Terr/Bruce St/St Leonard’s Pl/ 

High St/Burntisland Rd/A921/Burntisland, Kinghorn Rd/High St/Harbour Pl/High St/Cromwell Rd/Aberdour Rd/ 

Church St/Dollar Rd/Colinswell Rd 

G:\SEC1\SCHOOLS\PRIMARY SCHOOLS\STMARIES\TRANSPORT\CF08E1 


40

Pupil Welfare 

PASSENGER TRANSPORT SERVICES: SPECIFICATION OF 

SERVICE 

ST ANDREWS HS 


OPERATOR:- MOFFAT & WILLIAMSON (Tel: 01382 541159) 

ROUTE:- 

FROM 19/08/08 

St Andrews/Leuchars/Balmullo/Cupar/Cuparmuir/Springfield/ 

Pitlessie - St Andrews HS 

TIMETABLE 

ROUTE CODE 

A 

St Andrews Lamond Dr 0735 

St Andrews South St 0737 

Leuchars Station 0748 

Balmullo 0751 

Cupar Station 0800 

Cupar Crossgate 0802 

Cupar Westfield Rd 0804 

Cupar Muir 0808 

Springfield Station 0812 

Pitlessie 0817 

St Andrews HS 0840 

ROUTE CODE 

B 

St Andrews HS depart 1533 

Pitlessie 1556 

Springfield Station 1601 

Cupar Muir 1605 

Cupar West Park Rd 1607 

Cupar Crossgate 1609 

Cupar opp Station 1613 

Balmullo PO 1622 

Leuchars Station TC 1625 

St Andrews Lamond Dr 1636 

St Andrews South St 1638 


Route Code A – St Andrews, Lamond Dr/St Mary St/Abbey Walk/Abbey St/South St/City 

Rd/ A91/A919/Leuchars Station TC/unclassified rd to Balmullo, Toll Rd, Main St/A914 

Dairsie/A91/Cupar, East Rd/Station Rd/South Bridge/Crossgate/Bonnygate/West Port 

Westfield Ave/Westfield Rd/Millbank/Brighton Rd/Cuparmuir/unclassified rd to Clushford 

Toll/A92/Pitlessie/ Balmalcolm/New Inn/A92/A921/Kirkcaldy, Dunnikier Way/Overton Rd/St 

Andrews HS 

Route Code B – St Andrews HS/Overton Rd/Dunnikier Way/A921/A92/Pitlessie/Springfield 

Bridge/Cuparmuir/Cupar, Brighton Rd/Millbank/Westfield Rd/West Park Rd/West Port/ 

Bonnygate/Crossgate/South Bridge/Station Rd/East Rd/A91/Dairsie/Balmullo, Main Rd at 

the Post Office/unclassified road to Leuchars/Leuchars Station TC/Guardbridge/A91/St 

Andrews, City Rd/Bridge St/Largo Rd/Lamond Dr/St Mary St/Abbey Walk/South St 

G:\SEC1\TENDER\SPECSERV\PUPILTT\CF08E2FROM 180808 

13 JANUARY 2011 

41 

Handbook 2011



ST ANDREWS HS 

OPERATOR STAGECOACH in FIFE (Tel: 01333 426038) 

Route:- 

Largo / Casan / Leven/ Methil/ Buckhaven/ Wemyss / Dysart - St Andrew’s HS/ 

Dysart - St Maries PS 

TIMETABLE - SERVICE 647 

Route Code A B C 

Travel Pass Colour Purple Green Blue 

Casan TC 0800 0757 - 

Letham Glen 0806 - - 

Leven Bus Station, Stance 3 0810 - - 

Aberhill, Tower Bar 0812 - - 

Methil, Denbeath Bridge 0816 - - 

Buckhaven, College St 0819 - - 

Muiredge 0821 - - 

Lower Largo, Crusoe Hotel - - 0755 

Lundin Links - - 0757 

Leven, Letham Ave - - 0800 

Leven, Turpie Rd TC - - 0805 

Cameron Farm, Percival Rd - - 0810 

Mountfleurie, Montgomery Dr - 0800 - 

Leven, Glenlyon Rd - 0803 - 

Aberhill, Innerleven Church - 0808 - 

Queens Square - 0812 - 

Toll Bar - 0815 - 

Muiredge, Surgery - 0819 - 

East Wemyss, Car Shed - - 0816 

Coaltown of Wemyss - - 0819 

West Wemyss, Belvedere Hotel - - 0823 

Boreland - 0831 - 

Gallatown - 0834 - 

Dysart, Porte - - 0831 

Fairway - - 0833 

St Andrews HS 0840 0840 0840 

Route Code A B C 

Travel Pass Colour Purple Green Blue 

St Andrews HS arrive by 1530 1530 1530 

St Andrews HS depart 1535 1535 1535 

Fairway - - 1540 

Dysart, Porte - - 1542 

Gallatown - 1540 - 

Boreland - 1543 - 

West Wemyss, Belvedere Hotel - - 1549 

Coaltown of Wemyss - - 1553 

East Wemyss, Car Shed - - 1556 

Muiredge, Surgery - 1556 - 

Toll Bar - 1600 - 

Methilhill, Queens Square - 1603 - 

Aberhill, Innerleven Church - 1607 - 

Leven, Glenlyon Rd - 1612 - 

Mountfleurie, Montgomery Dr - 1615 - 

Cameron Farm, Percival Rd - - 1602 

Leven, Turpie Rd TC - - 1607 

Leven, Letham Ave - - 1612 

Lundin Links - - 1615 

Lower Largo, Crusoe Hotel - - 1618 

Muiredge 1554 - - 

Buckhaven, College St 1556 - - 

Denbeath Bridge 1559 - - 

Aberhill, Tower Bar 1603 - - 

Leven Bus Station 1605 - - 

Leven, Letham Glen 1609 - - 

Casan TC 1615 1618 - 


Route Code A – Leven Casan TC/ Casan/ Linnwood Dr/ Sillerhole Rd/ Letham Glen/ Scoonie Rd/ Leven Bus Stn/ Bawbee Bridge/ Kinnarchie Brae/ Wellesley 

Rd/ College St/ Church St/A955/ East Wemyss/ A955/ Coaltown/ A955/ Kirkcaldy, Normand Rd/ Windmill Rd/ The Fairway/ Viewforth St/ St Clair St/ McKenzie 

St/ Overton Rd/ St Andrews HS. 

Route Code B – Leven Casan TC/ Casan/ Kennoway Rd/ Glenlyon Rd/ Midlaw Cres/ Mountfleurie St/ Montgomery Drive/ Shepherd Ave/ Robertson Ave/ 

Mountfleurie Cres/ Glenlyon/ Riverside Rd / Bawbee Bridge/ Methilhaven Rd/ Kirkland Walk/ Sycamore Ave/ Kirke Park/ Page Rd/ Queens Sq/ Chemiss Rd/ 

Main St/ Sea Rd/ Methilhaven Rd/ A955/ East Wemyss / A955/ Coaltown/ A955/ West Wemyss/ A955/Kirkcaldy, Boreland Rd/ Randolph Rd/ Dunnikier Way/ 

Overton Rd/ St Andrews HS. 

Route Code C – Lower Largo, Harbour Wynd/ Crusoe Hotel/ Drummochy Rd/ Emsdorf St/ Lundin Links, Leven Rd/ A915/ Leven, Largo Rd/ Scoonie Brae/ 

Letham Ave/ Waggon Rd/ Mackie Ave/ Gallacher Ave/ Somerville Rd/ Gilmour Ave/ Montrave Cres/ Glenlyon Rd/ Windygates Rd/ Turpie Rd/ Turning Circle/ 

Turpie Rd/ Windygates Rd/ A915/ Windygates By-Pass/ Percival Rd/ A955/ East Wemyss/ Coaltown of Wemyss/ West Wemyss, Belvedere Hotel/ A955/ 

Kirkcaldy, Normand Rd/ Windmill Rd/ The Fairway/ Viewforth St/ St Clair St/ McKenzie St/ Overton Rd/ St Andrews HS. 

02 FEBRUARY 2010 


42


A Good School? 

A good school? 

A Quality Education 

We in St. Andrew’s High School are of the firm view that this school serves the pupils, parents and 

the wider community very well indeed and that it provides a good quality of education within a 

strong Christian ethos. We believe the school has many strengths: 

• A positive ethos is evident across the school 

• Relationships between staff and learners are positive 

• Young people contribute actively to the life of the school and the wider community 

• Young people are treated with equality and fairness 

• The quality and extent of global citizenship and charitable initiatives undertaken by pupils 

and staff 

• The quality of partnership and impact of the work of the Parent Council 

• The work of the Cluster Group in providing transitional experiences for P7 pupils entering 

S1 

• The facilities and accommodation provided by the recent extension 

All quotations are from a recent Authority Review of our school September 2010 

43 

Handbook 2011


More views 

What do our pupils think? 

Sarah Kelly, Head Girl 

St Andrew’s RC High School promotes such a great community spirit and the prominent Catholic ethos of the 

school really enhances the idea that each pupil is special individually but also as a part of something bigger. 

Throughout my 6 years here I have always been pushed to achieve my best academically and personally and 

this encouragement is something I am extremely grateful for. One of the things I most admire about our school 

is its commitment to helping others, both in our own community and on a wider international scale. I feel 

this gives us a unique identity and I am proud to be part of such a passionate, caring and happy school. 

Adam Campbell, Head Boy 

I am proud to be part of St. Andrew’s RC High School’s thriving school community. In every area of the 

school you feel like a member of an extended family in the happiness and respect the pupils and teachers 

share with one another. Our opportunity to experience and contribute to our wider community is a large part 

of what St. Andrew’s RC High School is about. There are many opportunities to engage in learning outside 

the classroom and we support local charities in our fund raising events and activities. For me, these are the 

attributes which make being a pupil at St. Andrew’s RC High School special. 

Olivia Kelsey, Depute Head Girl 

St Andrew’s RC High School may be a small school, but that is definitely not a bad thing. It means we have 

a tight school community, where every pupil is recognised. Not only that but through the guidance and the 

buddy system everyone has someone who will look out for them, someone they can talk to, or come to if 

they need help. The teachers are kind and do everything they can to provide you with a positive learning 

environment, so that you can achieve your full potential. High school years are some of the most important 

years of your life, and I know that mine have been well spent here at St Andrew’s RC High School. 

Olga Gromala, Depute Head Girl 

Our school has a great sense of community, which I have always felt a part of, ever since I joined St Andrew’s. 

The school is involved with a number of charities, which all pupils have a chance to contribute to. It gives 

all the pupils a chance to develop not only on academic level but also as individuals. For me, the first few 

months, after I joined, were difficult, as I didn’t know the language, however, with the school’s support, 

which included pupils as well, I was able to enjoy and adapt to the new environment. I believe that the 

school has helped me to develop my skills and prepare me for my future. 

Ewan Macfie, Depute Head Boy 

I think that St Andrew’s RC High School is a fantastic educational facility. It is a school which is rich with 

trust and respect between both teachers and pupils. Since the introduction of our new Headteacher the 

school community has flourished and the school has been able to produce new opportunities for the pupils 

attending. Overall, this school has provided me with the learning opportunities to gain the qualifications I 

need to attend further education after I leave at the end of the year. 

David Woods, Depute Head Boy 

St Andrew’s RC High School is a strong 

community at heart which always allows 

the pupils to feel they are important and 

gives them a sense of belonging. I feel that 

throughout my six years at the school I have 

always had the chance to take part, improve 

and add my piece to the community of the 

school. I have always had the chance to be 

the best I possibly can. Teachers push pupils 

to do the best academically and encourage 

pupils to show their talents personally. 

Senior Prefect Team 


44

Achievement 

More views 

Michael Doherty, S1 

The things I like about St Andrew’s RC High School are - 

• Every one is nice to each other 

• Lots of clubs to join (like the book club) 

• The lessons are more interactive and we learn lots as well as having fun! 

• Lots of healthy choices in the dinner hall 

• Big grounds so we can go out and play football in P.E. 

• All the teachers are nice and encouraging 

Lewis Woodrow, 1B 

Being at St Andrews RC High School has made me feel safer and has made me more responsible. I feel 

safe because of the mature fifth and sixth year pupils who look out for you. It has made me feel responsible 

because of our teachers, work and friends. St Andrews is a fun high school. You get freedom at lunch and 

more time to meet up with your friends. 

Jenna Howes 1B 

The things I like about St Andrew’s RC High School are having more freedom like being able to go to the 

shop at lunch. I also like how you are not stuck in one classroom for the whole school day. I really enjoy 

the new subjects that you don’t get at Primary. Like Home Economics and Science. I think St Andrews is 

a great place to meet some new friends. I’m really enjoying St Andrews, and I hope every year all the new 

pupils will love it too. 

Mary Erin Kinch 1C 

St Andrews is very good. You get freedom and it is not too strict. The teachers understand how nervous and 

worried pupils are in the first few weeks, they try to help you as much as possible. There are quite a lot of 

clubs, I am in the Glee Club for example, it is good at the Glee because it is run by pupils. St Andrews is a 

very good and welcoming school and I am grateful for their kindness in my first term here. 

Sorcha Wood, S1 

I like St Andrew’s RC High School because…. 

• There is a friendly atmosphere 

• Every subject I look forward to 

• All the teachers are very helpful. 

• There is a wide range of healthy food in the lunch hall 

• There are a variety of different lunchtime and afterschool clubs. 

• All my fellow peers are very friendly 

Ashlie Falconer, S1 

• I like the different subjects and I love learning them because they are very interesting 

• I like my teachers because they are always kind and help you. 

• I don’t have a favourite subject because all are really good. 

• I like how we have a bit more freedom but more responsibility. 

• I like that the teachers trust us and treat us like young adults. 

45 

Handbook 2011


Achievement 

Promoting Achievement 

One of our key aims of St. Andrew’s RC High school is to provide a positive learning environment 

so that all pupils are helped to achieve their true potential and to provide them with every 

opportunity to succeed in national examinations. The school and its staff work very hard to promote 

positive achievement by setting high standards and by encouraging all pupils to work to the best 

of their ability. We have a School Rewards System which enables us to recognise and celebrate 

achievement and effort amongst our pupils and to promote a positive attitude to learning. Pupils 

are recognised for consistent positive effort, attitude and behaviour twice a year with bronze, silver 

and gold awards which are celebrated at House Praise Assemblies. Double award winners are 

eligible to participate in the Rewards trip to M & D’s theme park in June. Pupils in all year groups 

who attain at the highest level are recognised at our annual awards ceremony. Our examination 

results have also improved consistently in recent years. 

As well as actively encouraging academic achievement we also provide pupils with many other 

opportunities for achievement. By giving pupils the opportunity to take part in charity and 

community work and by encouraging them to become involved in sport, music, art, drama and 

outdoor education, we aim to ensure that all pupils leaving St Andrew’s RC High school will have 

gained not only important academic qualifications but also skills and values which will help them 

develop into responsible and valuable members of society. 

Charity and Community Work 

Our school gives emphasis to caring for those less fortunate than ourselves. Each year our charity 

committee organises fundraising activites during Advent and Lent. 

Last year we were able to donate £7,000 to support the work of SCIAF. During Advent 2009 

the charity committee raised over £700 to support the Gorsilaure Project in the Congo. During 

Advent 2009 the charity committee raised over £2,000 for Fair Trade. We are very proud of the 

way in which our pupils, parents, and staff work together on charity and community work. Their 

generosity is impressive. 

European Network of Innovative Schools Art and Music 

A number of our pupils are talented artists and musicians and we aim to nurture their talent. 

The Art Department has helped pupils to achieve great success over the years. A number of pupils 

have won important Art competitions. Indeed we won the most prestigious award, the National 

Prize of the Royal Scottish Academy for 4 successive years - a quite remarkable feat! Pupils have 

also won other local competitions. In fact, the Fife Council logo in use for the past ten years 

was designed by one of our pupils. This department also produces its own highly praised cards, 

featuring the artwork of our own pupils, and provides displays of pupils’ work in the main foyer. 

The department has an excellent record in sending pupils to Art School. In a department with 

successful artists as teachers it is not surprising that there is such success among our pupils. 

In Music, too, many pupils have a real ability and the hard work and commitment of the Music 

Department have helped pupils develop their talents and skills. Like the Art Department, the 

Music Department has also guided pupils to success in competitions. 

The school’s performance in the Fife Festival of Music has always been very good with the windband 

winning the top prize for 3 successive years and a very large number of pupils achieving individual 

success in various categories. A number of our pupils also feature in orchestras and choirs at regional 

and national level, each providing further opportunities in musical development. 


46

Achievement 

Several of our musicians perform regularly outside of school at functions and events. Additionally 

there are a number of bands successfully performing gigs at local venues. Last year one of these 

bands won the coveted Fife Schools Rock Band Competition. 

The Music department also contributes a great deal to the community life of the school. In our 

Christmas and Summer concerts pupils have an opportunity to display their musical prowess. Our 

recent production of Grease was excellent . Those who have attended these concerts have always 

been very impressed by the high standard of performance. 

Sport 

A wide range of sporting activities is offered to pupils and many of our sports teams have achieved 

success, bringing credit to themselves and the school. 

Recently, pupils and teams have won Fife championship events in road-running, golf, volleyball, 

swimming and cross-country and have performed well in other events, including the Fife Badminton 

Championships and the Lochgelly Dance Festival. The school swim team and the girls’ football team 

have continued to enjoy success and eight boys have recently signed for senior football teams. 

Other Opportunities and Achievements 

After taking part in poetry writing competition a number of our pupils have had their poetry 

published in an onthology. 

Health Promoting Schools Award 2007 – 2010 

The school was recently awarded Health Promoting School status for the period 2007 - 10. The 

award recognises the schools achievement in working with partner agencies to promote the health 

and wellbeing for the young people in the school. 

International School Award 2007-2010 

St Andrew’s has been recognised by the British Council for its work in International Education. 

The British Council have awarded the school its full International School Award from 2007-2010. 

This is in recognition of the work which takes place across the school to promote an outward 

looking attitude in our young people. 

European Network of Innovative Schools 

The school was selected by the European Union to be part of a small group of European Innovative 

Schools. This involved us in sharing our expertise with other members of this prestigious network 

in countries across Europe, providing a range of new opportunities for our staff and pupils. 

A Caring School 

Perhaps above all else our school is seen as a very caring school in which children learn effectively 

and each individual is both challenged and valued. We receive many visitors who comment on 

this strength. 

Fairtrade 

Thanks to the hard work and dedication 

of both staff and pupils over the last 

few years, St Andrew’s RC High School 

is the first school in Fife to achieve for 

four years running, full Fairtrade status 

and an Intermediate International School 

Award. 

International Day 

47 

Handbook 2011


Results and Statistics 

Interpreting Statistics 

It is Government policy that school information booklets should provide statistics on examination 

results, the destinations of school leavers, attendance figures and the running costs of the school, 

together with the council and national details for all of these. It should be borne in mind that it is 

always wise to exercise caution when interpreting statistical data as these figures were not intended 

to provide a basis for comparing schools. 

The performance of pupils in St Andrew’s High School over many years has been considered to 

be very good. We have a wide and varied catchment area and there is strong evidence that pupils 

from each town do very well in our school. Indeed statistics appear to prove that we add value to 

our pupils and that our results have continued to improve in recent years. 

Consequently, we would be happy to answer questions from parents about statistics or about how 

the performance of individual children of different abilities has been improved by the school. 

Please note that schools are obliged to print statistics supplied directly by the Scottish Executive 

and are not permitted to adjust them or correct what we believe to be inaccurate or misleading 

figures. Trends can, of course, be affected therefore by changes in the way the statistics have been 

obtained. 

Equally, fluctuation in figures is likely from school to school. Schools serve very different 

communities and some schools or areas have social or economic advantages which are significant 

in considering apparent performance. From year to year too, there will be occasional differences 

in the patterns of results which are due more to fluctuations in pupils’ abilities in different year 

groups than to any underlying trend in school performance, particularly where relatively small 

numbers are concerned. 

Accordingly, statistics should be considered in the context of other indicators of performance, 

including the quality of the learning experience and of the ethos of the school. 


48

Achievement 

Information Parents 2010 

for parents 2010 

St Andrew's R C High School 

Examination results (within the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework) 

(2009-10 results are pre-appeal) 

By end of S4 - percentage of the relevant September S4 roll achieving: 

5+ awards at level 3 or better 5+ awards at level 4 or better 5+ awards at level 5 or better 

2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 

School 94 99 94 71 83 66 24 30 29 

Fife 90 90 92 75 75 76 31 32 31 

National 91 91 92 76 78 78 34 35 35 


1+ awards at level 6 or better 3+ awards at level 6 or better 5+ awards at level 6 or better 

2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 

School 41 33 43 17 15 20 6 8 7 

Fife 36 37 39 19 21 22 8 8 10 

National 39 41 43 22 23 24 10 11 11 


3+ awards at level 6 or better 5+ awards at level 6 or better 1+ awards at level 7 

2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 

School 26 34 22 18 20 15 10 10 10 

Fife 27 28 29 18 18 19 12 14 15 

National 30 31 33 20 21 22 13 14 14 

Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) levels: 

Level 3 Access 3 Cluster; Standard Grade at 5-6 

Level 4 Intermediate 1 at A-C; Standard Grade at 3-4 

Level 5 Intermediate 2 at A-C; Standard Grade at 1-2 

Level 6 Higher at A-C 

Level 7 Advanced Higher at A-C 

Estimated S5 January roll 

As a percentage of the S4 Roll in September of the previous session 

2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 

School 57 62 74 

Fife 62 65 68 

National 65 67 72 

Leaver destinations 

Number of pupils leaving in school year 2009-10 and percentage with destination as: 

Total 

number 

of 

leavers 

Full-time 

higher 

education 

Full-time 

further 

education 

Training 

Employment 

Other 

known 

Not 

known 

School 124 27 39 5 12 15 2 

Fife 3,979 33 37 4 12 13 0 

National 54,097 36 27 5 19 13 1 

Information for Parents 


Budgeting running costs for financial year 2010-11 

School roll at Total school running Cost per pupil (£) 

September 2009 costs April 2010(£) 

School 760 4,108,758 5,406 

Fife 21,236 105,573,251 49 4,971 

National 302,921 1,695,802,434 5,598 

Handbook 2011

School 

leavers 

124 27 39 5 12 15 2 

Fife 3,979 33 37 4 12 13 0 

National 54,097 36 27 5 19 13 1 


Information for Parents 


Budgeting running costs for financial year 2010-11 

School roll at Total school running Cost per pupil (£) 

September 2009 costs April 2010(£) 

School 760 4,108,758 5,406 

Fife 21,236 105,573,251 4,971 

National 302,921 1,695,802,434 5,598 

Attendance and absence for school year 2009-10 

Total number of possible attendances (pupil half-days) 

S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S1-S5 

School 47,990 55,320 53,059 52,203 45,568 254,140 

Fife 1,449,185 1,505,868 1,527,634 1,511,348 1,045,763 7,039,798 

National 20,375,279 20,601,741 21,076,798 20,825,660 15,739,991 98,619,469 

Percentage authorised absences 

S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S1-S5 

School 6.5 5.5 5.9 5.5 5.0 5.7 

Fife 5.1 5.9 6.6 5.3 5.0 5.6 

National 5.3 6.2 7.0 6.4 5.8 6.2 

Percentage unauthorised absences 

S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S1-S5 

School 2.1 3.1 5.3 6.3 3.7 4.1 

Fife 2.0 3.0 4.8 5.6 4.2 3.9 

National 1.5 2.2 3.0 3.5 2.8 2.6 

Minimising Overall Absence 

Average number of half-days absence per pupil 

Absence recorded 

2008-09 

Absence recorded 

2009-10 

School 29.9 37.6 

Fife 36.6 36.8 

National 34.2 33.9 

Percentage of S2 roll attaining or exceeding 5-14 Level E 

Previous 

level 

June 

2009 

Reading Writing Mathematics 

Present Previous Present Previous 

level level level level 

June June June June 

2010 2009 2010 2009 

Present 

level 

June 

2010 

School 63.1 78.4 67.4 73.0 57.4 62.8 

Fife 72.5 75.7 61.1 64.9 68.0 68.7 


50

Achievement 

Transferring Educational Data About 

Pupils 

Education authorities and Scottish Government have collected data about pupils on paper forms 

for many years. We now work together with schools to transfer data electronically through the 

ScotXed programme. Thus Scottish Government has two functions: acting as a ‘hub’ for supporting 

data exchange within the education system in Scotland and the analysis of data for statistical 

purposes within Scottish Government itself. 

Why do we need your data? 

In order to make the best decisions about how to improve our education service, Scottish 

Government, education authorities and other partners such as the SQA and Skills Development 

Scotland need accurate, up-to-date data about our pupils. We are keen to help all our pupils do 

well in all aspects of school life and achieve better examination results. Accurate and up-to-date 

data allows us to: 

• plan and deliver better policies for the benefit of all pupils, 

• plan and deliver better policies for the benefit of specific groups of pupils, 

• better understand some of the factors which influence pupil attainment and achievement, 

• share good practice, 

• target resources better. 

Data policy 

The ScotXed programme aims to support schools and Local Authorities by supporting the collection, 

processing and dissemination of statistical information required for planning, management and 

monitoring of Scottish education services. 

A subset of this information is passed to Scottish Government for research and National Statistics 

publications. Education data within Scottish Government is managed effectively by secure systems 

and is exploited as a valuable corporate resource, subject to confidentiality restraints. As part of 

its data policy, Scottish Government will not publish or make publicly available any information 

that allows individual pupils to be identified, nor will data be used by Scottish Government to 

take any actions in respect of individuals. Data is held securely and no information on individual 

pupils can or would be published by Scottish Government. 

The individual data collected by Scottish Government is used for statistical and research purposes 

only. We hope that the explanations contained on the ScotXed website will help you understand 

the importance of providing the information. 

Your data protection rights 

The collection, transfer, processing and sharing of ScotXed data is done in accordance with 

the Data Protection Act (1998). We also comply with the National Statistics Code of Practice 

requirements and other legislation related to safeguarding the confidentiality of data. The Data 

Protection Act gives you the right to know how we will use your data. This message can give only 

a brief description of how we use data. Fuller details of the uses of pupil data can be found on 

the ScotXed website (www.scotxed.net). 

Scottish Government works with a range of partners including HM Inspectorate of Education and 

the SQA. On occasion, we will make individual data available to partners and also academic 

institutions and organisations to carry out research and statistical analysis. In addition, we will 

51 

Handbook 2011


provide our partners with information they need in order to fulfil their official responsibilities. Any 

sharing of data will be done under the strict control of Scottish Government, which will ensure 

that no individual level data will be made public as a result of the data sharing and that these 

data will not be used to take any actions in respect of an individual. Decisions on the sharing of 

data will be taken in consultation with relevant colleagues and individuals within and outwith 

Scottish Government. 

Concerns 

If you have any concerns about the ScotXed data collections you can email the Senior Statistician, 

Peter Whitehouse, at Peter.Whitehouse@scotland.gsi.gov.uk or write to The ScotXed Support Office, 

Area 1B, Victoria Quay, Leith, EH6 6QQ. Alternative versions of this page are available, on request 

from the ScotXed Support Office, in other languages, audio tape, braille and large print. 

Want more information? 

Further details about ScotXed are available on the ScotXed website, www.scotxed.net., which 

contains a section on ‘frequently asked questions’ at https://www.scotxed.net/jahia/Jahia/lang/ 

en/pid/220. 


52

Enrolment & Primary/Secondary Liaison 

Enrolment 

Enrolment procedures 

If your child is in Primary 7 you should receive with this brochure details of the procedures for 

enrolling your child in our school. If your child attends one of our associated primary schools, 

you need take no further action. Parents of pupils from other Fife schools should, however, inform 

their headteacher that they wish to transfer their child to St Andrew’s RC High School. 

If you live outwith Fife, or if you are moving into our area and wish to enrol children in any year 

group, please simply contact the school and we will make arrangements to give you any information 

which you need to help you enrol your child in the school. 

Transfer arrangements 

P7 Pupils from our associated primary schools 

Arrangements for the transfer of pupils from our associated primary schools are carefully planned, 

involving detailed discussion between primary and secondary staff. The main aim of the programme 

is to help pupils integrate successfully into St. Andrew’s RC High School. Elements included in 

the programme are: 

Meetings with parents 

A meeting for parents of Primary 7 pupils was held in the school in September. This meeting 

provided an opportunity for parents to find out about the school, look at the school itself and 

meet the teachers. 

Visits by pupils 

Pupils are given a chance to sample life in secondary school as part of an induction programme 

mounted in June of each year. On June 15 & 16, 2011 all primary pupils are expected to spend 

two days in St. Andrew’s following the timetables they will be given when they enrol in August 

2011. In the course of the P7 year there are other opportunities for P7 pupils to spend time at St. 

Andrew’s. 

Visits by staff 

During the session Senior Staff, Learning Support Staff and Guidance Staff visit all primary schools 

to help pupils to become familiar with life in a modern secondary school. Subject teachers in 

secondary are encouraged to visit primary schools during the month of May. 

In addition, we make careful plans to ensure that there is a direct link between the curriculum 

offered in the primary and that continued in the secondary (see page 19). We hold regular meetings 

to discuss work covered in both primary and secondary and seek to ensure, where possible, that 

a common approach is adopted to key aspects of pupils’ work. In some areas of the curriculum, 

agreement has been reached on teaching strategies or on the completion of a project or assignment; 

in others, a unit may be started in primary and then completed by pupils in St. Andrew’s Roman 

Catholic High School. 

53 

Handbook 2011


Choosing your School 

Pupils from other schools 

Parents from outwith our catchment area may also wish to visit the school before they enrol their 

children. If so, they are invited to contact the school by letter or telephone. An appointment will 

then be made for them to come to the school to discuss any special needs their children may have 

and to allow them to view the school and its facilities. 

(Parents whose children attend associated primary schools may also wish to consider a private 

visit in addition to the public meetings referred to above). 

Your choice of school 

St Andrew's RC High School, Main Building 

The choice of a suitable school for your child's secondary education is an important decision. 

Whatever school you choose we would like to thank you for considering our brochure and wish 

you and your child every success in the future. 

Accuracy of information in this booklet 

This booklet was compiled in January, 2011. Parents are advised that the information contained in 

the booklet is accurate at that time. School policies are regularly reviewed and this, allied to the 

fact that modifications in roll, staffing and resources could take place in future, means that some 

elements contained within the booklet may be subject to change. 


54

Glossary 

GLOSSARY OF TERMS USED IN THIS BROCHURE 

Appropriate Education: 

Assessment: 

Senior Leadership Team: 

Continuous Assessment: 

Curriculum: 

National Qualifications: 

Mixed-Ability Groups: 

Standard Grade: 

SQA: 

the way a school plans its curriculum to ensure that the teaching 

offered is suitable and relevant to pupils of different abilities. 

the evaluation of a pupil’s progress, obtained using a wide variety 

of techniques, for example essays, homework assignments and 

examinations. 

the senior staff of the school. 

Assessment based on a regular evaluation of course work, often 

supplemented by regular tests. Co-operative teaching: involves 

two teachers working together with a class in order to give closer 

individual attention to pupils. 

All the experiences for learning which are planned and organised 

by the school. 

The range of courses offered to S5 and S6 pupils as well as some 

pupils in S4. 

Pupils of a wide range of ability taught together as a class; the 

work of such a group is largely, but not totally based on individual 

and group assignments. 

Courses for almost all pupils in S3, S4 leading to national 

qualification for pupils of all abilities. There are three different 

by overlapping levels of course within the Standard Grade - 

Foundation, General and Credit. Foundation is the basic level, 

General level is suitable for pupils in the middle range of ability. 

Credit level is the most difficult. 

Scottish Qualifications Authority 

Handbook 2011 

55

Appendix 1 

ST. ANDREW’S RC HIGH SCHOOL - S3 OPTIONS FORM 2010/11 

PUPIL’S NAME: __________________________ 

CLASS: __________ 

GUIDANCE TEACHER: _______________ 

PARENTS SIGNATURE: ________________ 

Please use this form to advise the school of the subjects you would like your son/daughter to study 

next session. This form should be completed and returned to the school by Tuesday, 9 th March. All 

EIGHT PARTS of the form should be read carefully before completion of any part. 

French 

COMPULSORY 

SUBJECTS 

GENERAL 

Physical Education 

Religious Education 

PSE 

STUDIED BY ALL PUPILS 

German 

COLUMN 4 

Pupils will normally continue with 

the Modern Language studied in 

S2. However, an alternative 

curriculum course will be 

available to a small group of 

pupils. 

COMPULSORY 

SUBJECTS 

STANDARD GRADE 

English 

Mathematics 

STUDIED BY ALL PUPILS 

Biology 

Chemistry 

Physics 

COLUMN 5 

Select Level of Study 

Standard Grade 

Intermediate 1 

COLUMN 3 

Geography 

History 

Modern Studies 

INDICATE 1 st , 2 nd & 3 rd CHOICE 

COLUMN 6 

Art & Design 

Graphical Comm. 

Home Economics 

Music 


TICK ONE SUBJECT 

INDICATE 1 st and 2 nd CHOICE 


COLUMN 7 

COLUMN 8 

Administration 

Business Management 

Craft & Design 

Home Economics 

Hospitality 




Art & Design 

Biology 

Chemistry 

Craft & Design 

Graphical Comm. 

Music 

Physics 

INDICATE 1 st , 2 nd & 3 rd CHOICE 

Child Care 

Construction Skills 

Engineering Skills 

Hairdressing 

These courses can only be 

chosen by agreement with 

the Guidance Teacher 


56

Appendix 2 


S5 Option Form 10/11 

St St Andrew’s Andrew’s RC RC High High School School 


St Andrew’s S5 Option RC Form High 10/11 School 


Column 1 H INT Column 2 H INT Column 3 H INT 

Business Management Biology N/A English 

Column 

Column 

1 

1 

H 

H 

INT 

INT 

Column 

Column 

2 

2 

H 

H 

INT 

INT 

Column 

Column 3 H 

INT 

INT 

Geography Business 

Business 

Management 

Management 

Chemistry Biology 

Biology 

N/A 

N/A 

Home English 

English 

Economics 

History Geography Column 1 H INT Chemistry Column 2 H INT Home Economics Column 3 H INT 

Geography English Chemistry Hospitality Home Economics 

N/A 

Maths History Business Management English Biology N/A Hospitality English 

History Hospitality English Computing Hospitality 

N/A 

N/A 

Maths Geography Hospitality Chemistry Computing Home Economics 

Modern Maths Studies Human Hospitality Biology N/A Product Computing Design N/A 

Modern History Studies Human English Biology N/A Product Hospitality Design N/A N/A 

Modern Studies Media Human Studies Biology N/A Woodworking Product Design Skills N/A N/A 

Maths Media Hospitality Studies Woodworking Computing 

Physics Media Studies Woodworking 

Skills 

Skills 

N/A 

N/A 

Modern Studies 

Physics 

Human Biology N/A Product Design N/A 

Physics 

Column 4 H INT Column 5 H INT 

Art Column 4 H INT Administration Column 5 H INT 

German 

Art 

Art 


Column 4 H INT Column 5 H INT 

Art Administration 

German Art 

German Column 4 H INT Art Column 5 H INT 

Graphic Communication Biology N/A 

Graphic Art Communication Biology Administration N/A 

Maths Graphic Communication Chemistry Biology N/A 

Maths German Chemistry Art 

Music Maths 

Music Graphic Communication 

French Chemistry 

French Biology N/A 

PE Music French 

PE 

Maths Human 

Human 

Chemistry Biology N/A 

PE Human 

Biology 

Biology 

N/A 

N/A 

Music Physics 

Physics 

French 

Physics 

PE Human Biology N/A 

Physics 

Media Studies Woodworking Skills N/A 

Physics 

FORM MUST BE RETURNED BY FRIDAY 12 TH 

FORM MUST BE RETURNED BY FRIDAY 12 TH MARCH 2010 

FORM MUST BE RETURNED BY FRIDAY 12 TH MARCH MARCH 2010 2010 

All 

All 

S5 

S5 

pupils 

pupils 

should 

should 

enter 

enter 

ONE 

ONE 

choice FORM choice 

per MUST per 

column. 

column. BE RETURNED All 

All 

S5 

S5 

pupils 

pupils BY must FRIDAY must 

study 

study 12 English. TH English. MARCH It is 

It 2010 is 

recommended that 

that 

all S5 

pupils All 

pupils 

study S5 pupils 

study 

Maths. should enter ONE choice per column. All S5 pupils must study English. It is recommended that all S5 

pupils study Maths. Maths. 

All S5 pupils should enter ONE choice per column. All S5 pupils must study English. It is recommended that all S5 

Please Please pupils tick tick ONE study ONE only: Maths. only: I will I will be be leaving leaving school school on on 28 28 May May 2010 

Please tick ONE only: I will be leaving school on 28 May 2010 2010 

Please tick ONE only: I will I will I be will be leaving be leaving leaving school school school on on 22 

I will be leaving school on 

on 22 December 

22 

28 December December 

May 2010 2010 2010 2010 

I will I will I 

I be 

will 

will be returning 

be 

be returning returning 

leaving for for school a full 

for a a full fifth 

full 

on fifth fifth 

22 Year Year December 

Year 

2010 

Pupil 

I will be returning for a full fifth Year 

Pupil Name: 

Pupil Name: ______________________________________ 

Name: Class: 

______________________________________ Class: ________ 

Class: ________ 

Parents Pupil Name: ______________________________________ Class: ________ 

Parents 

Signature: 

Signature: __________________________________ 

Guidance 

Guidance 

Teacher: Teacher: 

_____________________ 

_____________________ 

Parents Signature: __________________________________ Guidance Teacher: _____________________ 

57 

Handbook 2011

Appendix 3 



Column 1 H INT Column 2 H INT Column 3 H INT 

Business Management Biology N/A English 

Geography Chemistry Home Economics 

History English Hospitality N/A 

Maths Hospitality N/A Computing 

Modern Studies Human Biology N/A Product Design N/A 

Advanced Higher Media Studies N/A Woodworking Skills 

Physics Advanced Higher 


Column 4 Column 5 

Art Administration 

German Art 

Graphic Communication Biology N/A 

Maths Chemistry 

Music French 

PE Human Biology N/A 

Advanced Higher Physics 

Sports Leadership 


Drama (College Course) 

Psychology(College Course) 

Please note Advanced Higher 

courses are only likely to run if six or 

more pupils choose to study the 

subject at this level within the school. 

The school is currently working 

closely with local schools to explore 

possible cooperation in this area. 

FORM MUST BE RETURNED BY FRIDAY 12 TH MARCH 2010 

All S6 pupils should enter ONE choice per column unless they intend to study THREE Advanced Higher courses. If you would like to choose 

one of the colleges courses in Column 5 please indicate by ticking the course of interest to you. 

Please tick ONE only: I will be leaving school on 28 May 2010. I will be returning for a full sixth Year. 

Pupil Name: ______________________________________ Class: ________ 

Parents Signature: __________________________________ Guidance Teacher: _____________________ 


58

Useful Addresses 

USEFUL ADDRESSES AND TELEPHONE NUMBERS 

Mr Callaghan 


Overton Road 

KIRKCALDY 

KY1 3JL 

Tel: (01592 583407) 

standrewshs.enquirires@fife.gov.uk 

Head of Education 

Education Department 

Rothesay House 

Rothesay Place 

GLENROTHES 

KY7 5PQ 

Tel: (0845 1550000) 

Mrs M Caldwell 

Headteacher 

St Marie’s Primary School 

McIndoe Crescent 

KIRKCALDY 

KY1 2JH 

Tel: (01592 583459) 

Mrs L Smith 

Headteacher 

St Agatha’s Primary School 

Windygates Road 

LEVEN 

KY8 5BL 

Tel: (01334 659439) 

Miss C Clarke 

Headteacher 

St. Patrick’s Primary School 

Station Road 

LOCHGELLY 

KY5 9QX 

Tel: (01592 583461) 

Mr J Hutcheon 

Headteacher 

St Ninian’s Primary School 

Derran Drive 

CARDENDEN 

KY OJJ 

Tel: (01592 583460) 

Ms J Boggan 

Headteacher 

St Columba’s Primary 

North Union Street 

CUPAR 

KY15 4DU 

Tel: (01334 659440) 

Mrs C Nash 

Acting Headteacher 

Greyfriars Primary School 

Kilrymont Road 

ST ANDREWS 

KY16 8DF 

Tel: (01334 659418) 

Mr J Mooney 

Headteacher 

St. Paul’s Primary School 

Caskieberran Road 

GLENROTHES 

KY6 2AT 

Tel: (01592 583462) 

Cardinal Keith Patrick O’Brien 

Archbishop’s House 

42 Greenhill Gardens, 

EDINBURGH 

EH10 4BJ 

Tel: (0131 447 3337) 

Local Office 

Town House 

Wemyssfield 

KIRKCALDY 

KY1 1XW 

Tel: (01592 417755) 

Skills Development Scotland 

Opportunity Centre 

43-45 Whytescauseway 

KIRKCALDY 

KY1 1XF 

Tel: (01592 412555) 

Careers Office 

Albany House 

GLENROTHES 

Tel: (01592 414141) 


3 Pit Road 

COWDENBEATH 

Tel: (01383 313141) 

Child Protection Unit 

1 East Albert Road 

KIRKCALDY 

Tel: (01592 204756) 


High Street 

LEVEN 

Tel: (01333 592580) 

Stagecoach 

Esplanade 

KIRKCALDY 

Tel: (01592 261461) 

59 

Handbook 2011


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