The Bedford Academy

The Bedford Academy
Parent Handbook 2011/2012
Bedford Academy
Mile Road,
Bedford.
MK 42 9TR
Phone: 01234 301500
Fax: 01234 301501
Email: info@bedfordAcademy.co.uk
Website: www.bedfordAcademy.co.uk
Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/BedfordAcademy
YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/bedfordAcademy10

Welcome to Bedford Academy
This is a great time to be studying at Bedford Academy – we have embarked on an
exciting journey, shaping the future and will soon inhabit a state-of-the-art New Build
with the latest technologies and facilities! We have been working hard the last year to
ensure that our students receive the very best education from day one and as you read
through this parent pack, we hope that you will share our confidence in the high
standards of education that we provide.
We are committed to giving your child the best learning experience possible and to
improving their life chances. We are confident that our new, vibrant learning atmosphere
benefits our students and helps them to raise their academic attainment, enjoyment of
learning and level of skills. We have made Bedford Academy a place of learning that
students want to attend and that parents put at the top of their list of choices for this
crucial stage in their child’s education.
We will give your child a learning experience that you will find nowhere else; it is
absolutely unique. Our superb refurbished facilities, planned New Build and new,
dedicated staff enable us to deliver lessons in an environment that is challenging, friendly
and attuned to your child’s individual needs.
At Bedford Academy we recognise the important part that parents play in their child’s
education and we dynamically seek to develop active partnerships to ensure that every
child is nurtured to reach their full potential in a culture of ambition and respect, where
no one gets left behind.
We want your child to be able to think for both themselves and others, to be able to
challenge themselves and make good judgements, to believe in themselves and to
recognise their capacity to realise their dreams. We know that this is possible at Bedford
Academy.
Claire Smith
Principal

VISION
The Academy will transform educational outcomes by providing exciting, new and
different opportunities for learning and applied learning. As a vibrant and successful
centre of learning, with the highest standards of attendance and behaviour, it will
bring about a substantial increase in the educational attainment, expectations and
aspirations of students and the whole community.

STUDENT UNIFORM
All students starting at the Academy in September 2011, whether they are from the
predecessor school or new starters, will be expected to start in full uniform. All
uniform is compulsory, unless otherwise stated, and can be purchased from our on site
Uniform Shop weekdays 8.30am-5pm. Your child’s Learning Village Leader can provide
information on our Hardship Fund.
Girls
Boys
Provided • Academy School Bag • Academy School Bag
Available
from
Academy
Shop
only
Available
at other
stores
UNIFORM:
• Navy Blazer with Academy
Badge(£23.50 – £32.50)
• Charcoal Grey V-Neck Jumper
with Navy Stripe (£13 - £18.50)
• Academy Skirt (£19.50 – £25.50)or
Charcoal Grey Trousers (£16 -
£20) [religious/medical reasons
only]
PE KIT:
• Academy Track Suit (£13.50
Jogging bottoms)
• Academy Polo Shirt (£7.50 –
£9.50)
• Academy Shorts (£7.50 - £9.50)
• Academy Socks (£4 - £5)
• Academy Football/Rugby Top
(£11.50 - £14.50)
• Plain Black Socks or tights
• Plain Black School Shoes
• Charcoal Grey Salwar Kameez
(optional)
• Proper Winter Coat – Black or
Grey (no denim, leather or large
logos)
• Trainers for PE (Hockey Boots
optional)
• Open Neck White Blouse (Twin
pack £12.50 - £15.50 at Academy)
UNIFORM:
• Navy Blazer with Academy
Badge (£23.50 – £32.50)
• Charcoal Grey V-Neck Jumper
with Navy Stripe (£13 - £18.50)
• Charcoal Grey Trousers
(£13.50 - £15.50)
• Academy Tie (£5.50 - £6.50)
PE KIT:
• Academy Track Suit (£13.50
Jogging bottoms)
• Academy Polo Shirt (£7.50 -
£9.50)
• Academy Shorts (£7.50 - £9.50)
• Academy Socks (£4 - £5)
• Academy Football/Rugby Top
(£11.50 - £14.50)
• Black Socks
• Plain Black School Shoes
• Proper Winter Coat – Black or
Grey (no denim, leather or
large logos)
• Trainers for PE (Football Boots
optional)
• White Shirt (Twin pack ££7 -
£13 at Academy)

Additional Uniform Information
• Hair styles must be in keeping with the smart appearance of our uniform and be of a
conventional length and colour (unnatural hair colours and markings cut into the hair are
not appropriate);
• Excessive make-up and coloured nail varnish are not permitted;
• Students may wear a wrist watch and one pair of plain silver or gold colour studs in their
earlobe only (except for during PE); no jewellery is to be worn in any body piercings;
additional jewellery or hair ornaments will be confiscated;
• Visible tattoos, including henna tattoos, are not permitted;
• Students are expected to wear plain black school shoes not trainers, boots or sandals.
Shoes must not be open-toe, resemble trainers or have any logos;
• Hooded tops, caps and bandannas are not appropriate clothing and must not be brought
to the Academy site.
EQUIPMENT
All students are expected to bring with them:
• A Pencil Case
• Blue and Black Pens
• HB Pencils
• Sharpener
• Rubber
• 15cm Ruler
• Pair of Compasses
• Protractor
• Scientific Calculator (these need not be expensive)
• Set of Coloured Pencils

ACADEMY STANDARDS AND EXPECTATIONS
The Sponsors, Governors and Staff of Bedford Academy believe that exemplary standards
are important in reflecting our high expectations and are a direct indication of standards
within the Academy. Please note that these standards and expectations are there to ensure that
students are not distracted from their learning. We appreciate your cooperation in this matter.
Lateness
Lateness to lessons disrupts the flow of a lesson, the learning of the student and that of other
students; punctuality is a life skill and one that is always requested in future employer references.
If a student arrives late to lesson, without a note that is timed, dated and signed by a staff
member, the following will occur:
1. Lateness of five to ten minutes will result in the teacher retaining the student for the
exact number of minutes at the end of the lesson;
2. Lateness of over ten minutes will result in the teacher advising On Call and the student
being escorted to the Central Exit Room. Normal Central Exit Room procedures apply
and the student will remain for the duration of a whole day.
To assist with encouraging students to be on time to lessons the following support mechanisms
will be activated:
‐ All staff have a significant role during student movement times, encouraging students to
get to lesson; all teachers are expected to stand at their classroom door to meet and
greet their class and clear corridors;
‐ Lateness to lessons will be recorded each lesson and at tutor time; these registers will be
monitored;
‐ Frequent lateness will be identified from registers, students issued sanctions and parents
informed;
‐ Bells will be introduced at key times, wherever possible, to support with time keeping;
‐ Any student found out of lesson more than ten minutes after lesson start time (without a
note that is timed, dated and signed by a staff member) will be assumed to be late or
truanting and will be escorted to the Central Exit Room;
Mobile Phones and Music Devices
We recognise that many students may wish to use their mobile phones and music devices at
break and lunchtime; these must be switched off and in bags by the time they enter the Academy
building. If any student has a mobile phone or music device out in the Academy building, it will be
confiscated. As such, we would recommend that students do not bring these items in to the
Academy; students that choose to bring these items in do so entirely at their own risk.

Uniform
All students are expected to be in FULL Academy uniform whilst inside the Academy building.
Full Academy uniform includes correctly worn ties, tucked in shirts, blazers, skirts on the knee
and school shoes. Students must also have the Academy bag with them each day; additional bags
may be used to carry PE kit or cooking ingredients if required. Inappropriate items of clothing,
jewellery and hair accessories will be confiscated.
The only exceptions to the uniform policy are as follows:
• Students may remove ties, blazers or shoes to play games at break or lunch but must be
in FULL uniform WHENEVER they enter the building;
• If the Principal declares that summer uniform may be worn, students may remove blazers
and ties;
• Students with a genuine reason for missing uniform must bring a note of explanation from
home; students will then be loaned the missing uniform or shoes from our fully
maintained, cleaned and marked stock. Please note failure to return loan stock could
result in costs of replacement being sought from the family;
• Students unable to wear uniform for medical reasons must provide a note of explanation
to their Learning Village Leader; a uniform pass will usually be issued in these
circumstances.
Confiscated Items
If an item is confiscated, the following will occur:
1. The first time an item is confiscated the item will be retained at Student Reception until
the end of the day and may be collected by the student;
2. The second time an item is confiscated the item will be retained by Student Reception for
three days unless collected by a parent or carer. The item will not be returned to the
student before the expiration of three days;
3. The third time an item is confiscated the item will be retained by the Academy until a
meeting between the parent or carer of the student and their Learning Village Leader or
Tutor is attended.
It is important that all students respond appropriately if any item is confiscated. Any
student who refuses to hand over an item that is being confiscated will face further sanctions in
line with our existing Behaviour for Learning policy, in which instance the item will still be
confiscated. Thank you for your co-operation in this matter.

TERM DATES
Autumn Term 2011
Wednesday 7 th September (please refer to ‘Start of Term Arrangements’ on the next page) –
Friday 16 th December
Staff Training Days – Monday 5 th September, Tuesday 6 th September, Monday 31st October and Friday
9 th December
Half Term break: Monday 24 th October – Friday 28 th October
Spring Term 2012
Wednesday 4 th January – Friday 30 th March
Staff Training Day - Tuesday 3 rd January and Monday 20 th February
Half Term break: Monday 13 th February – Friday 17 th February
Summer Term 2012
Tuesday 17 th April – Friday 20 th July
Staff Training Day – Monday 16 th April and Monday 23 rd July
Bank Holiday: Monday 7 th May
Half Term break: Monday 4 th June – Friday 8 th June
Autumn Term 2012
Staff Training Day – Tuesday 4 th and Wednesday 5 th September

START OF TERM ARRANGEMENTS
Monday 5 th and Tuesday 6 th September 2011 will be Staff Training Days and, as such, the
Academy will be closed to students.
On Wednesday 7 th September 2011, students going into Year 9 will arrive at
8.30am; Years 10 and 11 will arrive at 11.05am. Year 12 and 13 should report to
the 6 th Form Common Room at 10am for their Induction Day. Normal lessons will start
for years 9, 10 and 11 at 1.40pm (Period 3) the same day.
TIMINGS OF THE ACADEMY DAY
Times
Activity
7.30 Academy Opens – Breakfast Club
8.30 Tutor Time/Assembly
8.55 Period 1
10.50 Break Time
11.05
Period 2 + Staggered Lunch
12.00 -12.40
Sitting 1
1.00 – 1.40
Sitting 2
1.40 Period 3
3.35 Enrichment Activities
5.35 End of Extended day

LEARNING & TEACHING
At Bedford Academy we believe that increasing the length of lessons increases the amount of
learning time available for our students:
We also believe that lessons should be planned to take account of each individual student’s prior
learning, ability and skills. Lessons will be interesting and varied and students should be active in
their learning.

EXTENDED LEARNING
Bedford Academy’s approach to extended learning takes account of the additional learning
hours in the Academy’s formal teaching week and the Enrichment programme.
We acknowledge that:
• Students that take part in additional study support activities outside of their normal
learning get better GCSE results than their peers of equal ability who do not
participate, scoring an average of 3.5 grades more on their best five GCSE results
and they gain one more A*-C pass (Source: National Youth Agency & University of
Strathclyde);
• As students progress through the Academy, they are increasingly expected to learn
effectively on their own, managing their own study time by 6 th form.
Extended Learning at Bedford Academy is:
• Given on a flexible schedule as determined by the Director of Learning for each
course studied;
• Only given when it truly enhances the learning of students;
• Focused on the quality, not quantity, of the extended learning task;
• Given to individual students by their teachers if the student has been absent or is
falling behind with their learning;
• Able to be completed in the Independent Learning Centre (ILC), during Enrichment
time or at Breakfast Club (weekdays 7.30am – 8.20am);
• A specific, well explained task or project with a fair deadline made clear to students;
• Recorded in detail by students in their planners;
• Also able to be formed through attendance at a particular Enrichment activity,
intervention or revision session;
• Considerate of students’ interests and abilities;
• Found in a variety of forms and may not be written;
• Assessed in an appropriate form and feedback is given to the student;
• Formally monitored and reviewed by senior staff for effectiveness.

ENRICHMENT
We believe that it is important for students to make the most from their time at the Academy
and are proud of the varied activities and opportunities available to students during the academic
year.
It is mandatory that all students in years 9, 10 and 11 attend at least one session from our
Enrichment programme per week. Activities take place each day starting with our
Breakfast Club (from 7.30 – 8.25am) and continuing after school once the formal
timetable is completed (from 3.35 – 5.35pm).
Enrichment programme activities are based on sports, arts, science and technology, music and
languages to name just a few. Students can learn a new foreign language, such as Japanese, or get
involved in our Film, cookery or allotment club. Study clubs are available throughout the year but
specifically during exam periods to extend students learning, allow revision opportunities and help
with coursework.
Enriching the lives of our students comes in many forms, not just extra curricular clubs.
Residential, day or short trips encourage students to experience different environments,
cultures and meet new people, thereby increasing organisational skills, personal initiative
and personal confidence; most of these are linked to learning.
Visiting speakers provide course or tutorial-related talks. These often provide awareness
for students beyond the expertise of Academy staff and insights into different approaches
to learning.
Tutorial time provides activities focused on student’s skills including literacy, careers, Information
Advice and Guidance, bullying and pastoral issues. Citizenship activities based in the Learning
Village encourage participation in events, such as Children in Need and Comic Relief, where
fundraising develops students planning, decision making and organisational skills.
Finally, whole Academy events allow students to take part in activities beyond the
classroom, to have fun and enrich students’ experience; such events include themed days,
presenting assemblies, supporting the Academy in events, sports day, productions and
concerts etc.

ACCESS
Our Academy is a happy and welcoming one. Our students thrive in a supportive and safe
environment in which everyone has respect for each other. All students require support
with their learning at one time or another and in the majority of cases this support is
provided through the Learning Village structure. However, some students require
additional support to reach their full potential and this is provided through Access.
Access provides fully integrated student support for students with additional needs, be
that emotional, behavioural, special educational or additional language needs. Access
provides co-ordinated support for students whether that is through support in class,
small group or individual programmes or through alternative curriculum provision.
Our Access staff are highly qualified, experienced, knowledgeable and very approachable.
They liaise closely with each student subject teacher and their Learning Village leader.
From time to time, students require support from outside agencies to ensure their needs
are met; our Access staff liaise with the outside agencies to provide a joined up service
for our students.
Access at Bedford Academy ensures students feel confident to tackle learning and aim to
be the best they can.
ACCESS PROVISION
ACCESS
STUDY SUPPORT BEHAVIOUR SUPPORT LANGUAGE SUPPORT
VULNERABLE STUDENT
SUPPORT
1:1 SEN SUPPORT
1:1 COACHING
TA CLASS SUPPORT
CHILD PROTECTION
GROUP SUPPORT
DROP-IN SUPPORT
SMALL GROUP
LANGUAGE SUPPORT
COUNSELLING
REINTEGRATION
SUPPORT
STUDY SUPPORT
STAFF SUPPORT
EXTERNAL AGENCY
SUPPORT
ENRICHMENT
ACTIVITIES
STAFF SUPPORT
LANGUAGE
ACQUISITION SUPPORT
STUDENT & FAMILY
LEARNING COACH
STAFF SUPPORT
GROUP WORK
COURSEWORK
WRITING SUPPORT
ACCESS
ARRANGEMENTS
6 TH FORM MENTORING
ADVANCE BI-LINGUAL
SUPPORT
STATEMENT CLASS
SUPPORT
PASTORAL SUPPORT

ANTI-BULLYING
Bedford Academy encourages students to show respect in their relationships with all
members of the Academy’s community.
The Academy takes a zero-tolerance attitude to bullying – this includes all forms of
bullying relating to race, religion and culture, homophobic bullying, bullying related to
special educational needs and disabilities, sexist and sexual bullying, and the use of cyber
technology to bully.
We encourage students to:
‣ say NO to BULLYING;
‣ know and understand what bullying means and the consequences of bullying-type
behaviour;
‣ be active not passive – speak out and report incidents;
‣ listen to, support and help bullied students;
‣ take personal responsibility;
‣ take collective responsibility;
‣ develop loyalty to the Academy and students within it.
ANTI-BULLYING MENTORS
The mentor scheme is aimed at ensuring students time at Bedford Academy is not only a
success academically, but the students feel safe, happy and fully supported. We
appreciate that, at times, talking to an adult can be hard so we have thirteen students fully
trained to support our young people who feel they need someone to talk to.
Our mentors are able to:
assess the extent of bullying and effectiveness of existing strategies;
lead anti-bullying groups;
provide peer support and a peer buddy;
lead anti-bullying conferences and awareness weeks;
lead anti-bullying assemblies;
lead anti-bullying competitions;
manage 'safe zones' in the academy

STUDENT VOICE
Student Voice is the set of systems through which young people are enabled to give their
opinions and suggestions on Academy life in an open, honest, secure yet constructive
way.
At Bedford Academy we believe that all students are entitled to contribute actively in
shaping the educational experience they and their fellow students receive. Effective
delivery of this policy will give them the opportunity to do so. As well as assisting in
young people’s learning and social development, such student involvement is also of active
benefit to the Academy’s performance. Bedford Academy is committed to placing Student
Voice at the centre of lesson planning and design of the wider curriculum.
Academy Council:
Each Learning Village runs its own Council and sends one representative to sit upon the
Academy Council which:
- Meet once a half term with the Principal or Vice Principal;
- Contribute to main strategic decisions of the Academy;
- Meet with Governors as appropriate;
- Runs a selection process for Head Girl, Head Boy, Deputies, Clerk and Finance
Director;
- Has a Term of Office of one year before re-election;
Academy Council
Head Girl & Head Boy (Chairs)
Deputy Head Girl & Boy (Head Prefects)
Clerk to the Academy Council
Student Finance Director
Five Chairs of Learning Village Councils
A&S Learning
Village Council
Communications
Learning Village
Council
Humanities
Learning Village
Council
M&B Learning
Village Council
S&T Learning
Village Council

CONTACTS
In the first instance, parents are asked to contact their child’s Tutor or Learning Village
Leader (your child’s Learning Village will be noted in the front of their student planner):
Maths & Business Ext.243 mathsandbusiness@bedfordAcademy.co.uk
Communications Ext.248 communications@bedfordAcademy.co.uk
Science & Technology Ext.252 scienceandtechnology@bedfordAcademy.co.uk
Arts & Sport Ext.252 artsandsport@bedfordAcademy.co.uk
For all attendance queries or to report an absence, please telephone (01234) 301500 ext. 238 or
email attendance@bedfordAcademy.co.uk.
Each of the Learning Villages is overseen by an Assistant Principal:
Maths & Business
Communications
Humanities & Year 7
Science & Technology
Arts & Sport
Mr George Lewis
Miss Zoe Baines
Mrs Helen Eastlake
Ms J’ Anina Taylor
Miss Jackie Smith
Other members of the Senior Leadership team are:
Principal
Finance & Operations Director
Vice Principal
Mrs Claire Smith
Mrs Julie Lombardo
Ms Geri Lowe

COMMUNICATION
At the end of every half term, the Academy issues its full-colour newsletter updating
parents on all the latest developments, enrichment activities and academic achievement
secured that half term. This provides a snap shot of all that has been taking place and an
opportunity to communicate significant events that parents may wish to attend.
Students are encouraged to try out their journalism skills by writing an article and
sourcing or supplying images for the newsletter.
To find out the latest news and events, and to view the most up-to-date photographs and videos,
visit our website at www.bedfordacademy.co.uk, our Facebook page on
www.facebook.com/BedfordAcademy and our YouTube page that can be found at
www.youtube.com/user/bedfordacademy10.

GOVERNING BODY
The Academy Governing Body consists of the following members:
Principal
Chair of Governors
Vice Chair of Governors
Governor
Governor
Governor
Governor
Governor
Governor
Governor
Governor
Parent Governor
Staff Governor
Mrs Claire Smith
Mr Mervyn Weeden
Mr David Brownridge
Ms Natalie Keeler
Mrs Gail Cocozza
Mrs Linda Hockey
Mrs Sue Clark
Mr Dave Hodgson
Mrs Christine Highams
Ms Saima Nasir
Mr Tony Wildman
Mrs Rebecca Guynn
Mrs Tina Nandhra
Should you wish to contact a member of the Governing Body, please contact the Clerk to the
Academy Trust, Miss Michelle Bye, on mbye@bedfordAcademy.co.uk or (01234) 301500 ext.250.

ORGANISATION STRUCTURE
The Academy organisation structure consists of five Learning Villages:
• Communications (English & World Languages)
• Maths & Business (including ICT)
• Humanities
• Science & Technology (Our Specialism)
• Arts & Sport
Each student is assigned to a Learning Village as they enter the Academy; this forms their
pastoral base for their time with us. Students are organised in vertical tutor groups with
students from all years; this enables peer mentoring, easy integration into the Academy
and reduces bullying.
Students move between the Learning Villages for their lessons to ensure that they get the
specialist teaching that they need.
For most students, pastoral and mentoring support is provided by the staff in their
Learning Village; however, there will be times when students require additional support.
This support will be provided by Access, which offers SEN support, language
development, behaviour support, counselling and alternative curriculum provision.

ATTENDANCE
At Bedford Academy we believe that for our students to gain the greatest benefits from their
education, it is vital that they attend regularly. Our students should be on time, every day the
Academy opens unless the reason for absence is absolutely unavoidable. It is very important that
families recognise their responsibility to ensure their child attends school regularly and on time.
98% attendance is a realistic and achievable target for all students that allows for the occasional
emergency or sick absence.
You may think that 90% in an exam is great, but for attendance it is not very good at all:
90% attendance = ½ a day a week missed
90% attendance = 4 weeks missed every year
90% attendance = ½ a school year missed every 5 years
For every 17 missed days a year = 1 GCSE-grade drop in achievement; this
could be the difference between a C and a D grade in Maths or English!
Parent/Guardian Responsibility:
• Only let your son/daughter stay at home if they are genuinely ill
• If your son/daughter is going to be absent inform the Academy before 9am on (01234)
301500 ext. 238 or attendance@bedfordAcademy.co.uk to advise us of why they are
absent and when you expect them to return
• Make medical appointments outside of Academy hours
• Ensure that holidays are taken in Academy holidays only, never in term time; a Fixed
Penalty Notice may be issued to parents if students take holiday in term
• Talk to your son/daughter about the Academy and how they feel about it. They are more
likely to attend and enjoy it if they feel supported and listened to.
What to do if there is a problem with your son/daughter’s attendance...
• Talk calmly to your son/daughter and listen to the explanation. Contact their tutor or
their Learning Village Leader to address the reason for their non-attendance.
• Your son/daughter’s welfare is important to us. We can help you resolve issues and can
offer lots of support for you and your child. You are not alone.
• Be supportive to your child in the run up to tests and be aware of coursework deadlines.
• Help your child catch up with missed work - a missed day should not mean missed work.

ATTENDANCE REWARDS SYSTEM
The Academy aims to support and encourage strong attendance by offering the following
incentives and positive reinforcement to students:
100%
Attendance each
term
Recognised termly in
Learning Village assemblies
by certificate and seasonal
prize; Prize Draw also run
100%
Attendance
throughout year
Recognised through invite
on Attendance Trip
95 – 100%
Attendance
throughout year
Recognised by Reward and
invited on End‐of‐Year
Reward Trip. Prize Draw for
£100 voucher (one per
Learning Village)
93% Attendance
throughout year
Recognised through invite to
Year 11 Prom
There are also weekly attendance competitions in each Learning Village, where stickers
are awarded on a chart, and a Whole Academy Attendance Race both of which are
rewarded with an afternoon trip.

WHOLE ACADEMY REWARDS SYSTEM
The Academy also has the following Rewards in place for students:
Positive Behaviour
and Academic Effort
Points awarded throughout year and
exchanged for Reward Catalogue prize
Celebration
Assemblies
Termly recognition of student excellence
through certificate and seasonal prize
Student of the
Learning Village
Awarded a gift voucher, trophy and
honoured by a Speech at Rewards Evening
SAFEGUARDING
The Academy works in partnership with parents to support children in every way
possible. The academy has a clear responsibility to ensure that staff work together with
other agencies to safeguard and promote the welfare of all children. As a result, if
concerns are raised with the Academy or a child or parent reports a situation involving
possible abuse, we are not able to guarantee confidentiality. Such an incident would have
to be referred to Social Services.
This is in line with Government.

CAREERS, INFORMATION, ADVICE AND GUIDANCE
It is really important that students have a broad Careers education programme to help them
choose a future career that they will enjoy and prosper from.
In order to facilitate this, we offer students a number of activities to support careers education
including employer talks, visits to national events, such as the work skills exhibition in Wembley
Stadium, College visits and careers fairs.
From September 2011, provided Career education has been planned to include:
• Careers booklets/ evaluation from all year groups;
• Bedford Academy Careers Fair;
• “The Real Game” immersive day for year 9;
• Visiting speakers from local companies;
• Careers assemblies supported by Bedford College and Apprenticeship providers;
• C.V writing for all year 11 and 6 th form;
• Work Skills day visits to Wembley;
• Army Careers visit;
• Record of Achievement for all year 11;
• 6 th form careers and university fairs;
• “Industry day”, for all year 10 and 6 th form;
• Work experience opportunities for all post 16 learners
Pupils may prefer to study a more practical pathway and to consider an Apprenticeship or
advanced Apprenticeship. Apprenticeships are offered through companies and are often
advertised in local papers and the internet. An apprenticeship usually includes a certain number of
hours a week in paid employment, supported by time at a college or education provider
completing a vocational (often BTEC) course. If a student is interested in following an
apprenticeship they need to actively search for one, by looking in local papers, using the internet
and calling suitable companies. Students must then apply and will be called for interview in most
cases.
Some apprenticeships are highlighted to the Academy, particularly those offered by our sponsors,
Bedford College. When this happens we will advertise them on our web page and in school.

MEAL ARRANGEMENTS & FREE SCHOOL MEALS
Bedford Academy understands the importance of providing students with healthy food, evidenced
through our ‘Healthy Schools’ status. We also recognise the link between food and levels of
concentration and achievement, which is why we have an Executive Chef to provide food of the
highest quality in our restaurant on a daily basis.
The Academy offers healthy breakfasts from 7.30 to 8.20am every day, nutritious and substantial
snacks at break and before enrichment activities and satisfying lunches. The restaurant follows
guidelines issued by the government through the Food Standards Agency and provides good
quality, nutritious and tasty meals. The food always reflects a variety of tastes and cultures and a
vegetarian option is provided.
For those parents/carers providing a packed lunch, you too have the opportunity to provide a
healthy and nutritious meal for your child. A lunchbox that contains a freshly made sandwich with
one or two pieces of fruit together with a water based drink is far better for your child than one
which contains crisps, chocolate biscuits, sweets and meat products such as sausage rolls,
individual pies or fattier meats like corned beef. Sandwiches, wraps and bagels are all good
sources of nourishment; salads and noodle based lunches are energy giving and have a strong
nutritional value.
Our lunch time is staggered so that students do not all have their lunch at the same time; this is
to ensure short, speedy queues, more efficient facilities and enables the chef to ensure that fresh
food is prepared and that the range of choice is available for all.
Free School Meals (FSM) can be claimed by those students whose parents are in receipt of
Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, or Job Seeker’s Allowance, Incapacity
Benefit or Disability Allowance with Child Tax Credit. If you feel you may be eligible for FSM, you
can contact Bedford Borough Council Education Welfare Service and request an application form
to be sent to you.

TYPICAL MENU
MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY
BREAKFAST
Coffee, Tea, Cold Drinks, Bacon Roll, Toast, Jam Portion, Fruit and Milk & Cereal
MORNING
BREAK
Pizza Slice, Cheese on Toast, Cheese & Bean Wrap, Bacon Baguette, Baguettes, Wraps, Hoagies,
Sandwiches, Pasta Pots, Fruit Pots, Veggie Sausage Rolls, Small Salad Pots, Bite-size Cake, Tray Bake
Cakes and Muffins
MAIN MEALS
Beef Cobbler
with creamy
mashed
potatoes
Tandoori
chicken with
fluffy savoury
rice
Roast beef and
Yorkshire pudding
served with roast or
new potato
Shepherds pie with
Roasted vegetables
Bubbly battered
fish with chipped
potatoes
VEGETARIAN
Sweet potato
and chickpea
Rogan Josh with
pilau rice
Vegetable layer
pie with champ
potatoes
Vegetable chilli with
brown rice
Roasted vegetable
lasagne with a
garlic bread slice
Spicy bean and
vegetable wrap
with herb baked
potatoes
VEGETABLE/
SALAD
Sweetcorn
niblets or
seasonal salad
Broccoli and
cauliflower
florets or
seasonal salad
Baton carrots or
seasonal salad
French beans or
seasonal salad
Garden peas or
baked beans or
seasonal salad
HOT DESSERTS
Dutch apple
crumble with
custard or fresh
fruit pieces
Carrot cake
with vanilla
sauce or fresh
fruit pieces
Manchester tart with
custard or fresh fruit
pieces
Chocolate fudge
cake or fresh fruit
pieces
Blueberry
muffins or fresh
fruit pieces
GRAB AND GO
DESSERT/
DRINKS
Pizza & Pasta selection, Salad, Jacket potato (topped with hot and cold fillings) and a range of
sandwiches
Yoghurts, dairy dessert pots ,fruit slush, water, fruit juices, milk drinks, cakes and biscuits

CURRICULUM
Key Stage 3
The Curriculum at key stage three encompasses all national curriculum areas. Students study a
core of Maths, English, Science, ICT, PE and Citizenship. They will also have the wider
experience of Humanities (including History, Geography and RS), Expressive Arts (including Art,
Ceramics, Music, Media and Drama), Design Technology (including Textiles, Food, Graphics and
Resistant Materials) and French. This wide range of experiences on offer will provide students
with a solid skill base, combining this with personalised information, advice and guidance
students will progress onto key stage 4 prepared for the challenges ahead.
Key Stage 4
Students in years 10 and 11 are able to make choices that make their curriculum a personalised
experience. Students study a core of Maths, English, Science, ICT, PE and Citizenship and
accreditation will be gained by the students in these subjects. Students will then choose from a
wide range of GCSE, BTEC and vocational courses that will give them the best opportunities to
move towards Level 3 courses.
Key Stage 5
Students in the sixth form will study up to four Level 3 courses which include A-Levels and
BTEC. There is a wide variety on offer and the Academy also offers a core of PSHE, Sports and
Leadership courses that make the Academy sixth form a wide ranging experience preparing
students for the rigours of University, further study or employment.
Enrichment
All students will be expected to participate in at least one enrichment session per week.
Enrichment sessions are outside of the curriculum and provide students with the opportunity to
experience something different. Some Enrichment activities may be accredited, others are
recreational and will include activities such as sports, music, arts, engineering and academic
programmes.
Specialism
The Academy specialism of Science and Technology is embedded through all Learning Villages;
there are links within the curriculum at all key stages and in tutor group names. The specialism
offers Enrichment opportunities that highlight areas of progression available to students in this
subject area.

ASSESSMENT CALENDAR
The Academy uses a number of methods and key events to keep parents/carers informed
of student academic progress and to assist parents in their support of young people’s
studies.
Student Report Card
Parents will receive a regular update on student’s progress in the form of a short report
card giving an indication of the level or grade the student is working at. Parents will
receive these updates on the week commencing:
17 th October 2011
12 th December 2011
6 th February 2012
26 th March 2012
28 th May 2012
25 th June 2012
Target Setting Days
A day is allocated for parents/carers to meet with tutors to discuss student’s targets for
the academic year; this is then followed by a review at the end of the year.
Target Setting Day 3 rd October 2011
Target Review Day 25 th June 2012
Mock Exam Weeks
For key stage 4 there will be a mock exam period running the week commencing 28 th November
2011 and 16 th April 2012.
Parent Evenings:
Year 9
Parents’ Evening 12 th January 2012
Options’ Evening 3 rd February 2012
Year 10
Parent Information Evening 10 th November 2011
Parents’ Evening 29 th March 2012
Year 11
Options’ Evening 19 th January 2012
Revision Information Evening w/c 12 th March 2012

PARENT GROUPS
At Bedford Academy we recognise the important part that parents play in their child’s education
and we want to develop an active partnership to ensure that every child is nurtured to reach
their full potential.
Parents, carers and families are arguably the most important influences on children’s lives. Parents
who take on a supportive role in their child’s learning make a difference in improving both
achievement and behaviour.
In order to develop a relationship of mutual trust and respect there must be effective
communication. To enhance the sharing of information between parents and the Academy we
hold termly Parent Council meetings that are open to all parents/carers of Academy students.
These meetings aim to:
• Enable parents to come together, share ideas and put forward their views to the Principal and
Governing Body;
• Help develop a partnership between parents and the Academy that gives parents a voice
within our Academy and the opportunity to become more involved in Academy life;
• Allow parents to contribute to policy and decision making processes on issues which may
affect them and their children;
• Facilitate parent involvement in improving children’s learning by helping to inform parents
about their child's education and the quality of that education.
We also hold Parent Focus groups within the Academy to address the specific needs of some of
our local communities, which currently involves the Bengali and Polish communities. We hope to
expand in the near future to include more focus groups.
Our Parent Governor, Mrs Rebecca Guynn, sits on the Governing Body and is a representative
parent, who holds a unique position of having a parental viewpoint of the Academy and an active
involvement in Academy life. If you would like to discuss any parental concerns or make
suggestions, come along to a Parent Meeting or contact Mrs Guynn through the Clerk to the
Academy Trust, Miss Bye, on mbye@bedfordacademy.co.uk
If you would like to be involved in any of these groups please contact Mrs Helen Eastlake,
Assistant Principal: Community and Enrichment on 01234 301500

PARENT SUPPORT
A wealth of support services are available on the Academy website in the Parent section; some
key services are:
Family Lives
Extended support for complex and difficult issues; personalised email service, online peer
support, online advice and information on all aspects of family life and face to face support
groups/workshops. Free 24-hour confidential helpline (08088) 002222 or visit
www.familylives.org.uk
Parent Partnership Service
Offers free confidential information and support to parents/carers of children who have, or may
have, special educational needs. www.bedfordshireparentpartnership.co.uk
Family Information Service
Provides free, confidential information and advice to help parents, carers, children, young people
and professionals working with families to find the services they need. (08000) 232057
fis@bedford.gov.uk
Relate for parents and families
Useful information and advice for parents, or anymore in a family, to help with the most
important relationships – the ones you have with your family. www.relateforparents.org.uk
Advisory Centre for Education (ACE)
Provides advice and information to parents and carers on a wide range of school based issues.
(08088) 005793 (Mon – Fri 10am to 5pm)
Netmums
A locally based social networking site connecting parents with each other with help from experts
on specific issues through private on-line messages or conversations. www.netmums.com
Young Minds Parents’ Helpline
Free confidential support for anyone worried about emotional problems or behaviour of a child
or young person. (08088) 025544 (Mon – Fri 9am – 4pm)
Parentchannel.tv
A range of parenting videos for parents and carers of children 5-19 years. www.parentchannel.tv
Bullying
Help and advice for victims of bullying and parents. www.bullying.co.uk

FINANCIAL DIFFICULTY PROCEDURES
The Academy provides a free education to all students but also provides a number of additional
services and activities for which charges will be made.
The Academy is committed to the belief that no student should be at a disadvantage if their
parents/carers are in receipt of benefits.
The Academy is able to offer financial assistance to those students whose parents or guardians
are in receipt of one of the following benefits:
• Income Support
• Income-Based Jobseeker's Allowance
• Employment and Support Allowance (Income Related)
• Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
• Families in receipt of Child Tax Credit will also qualify provided that (a) they are not
entitled to Working Tax Credit, and (b) their annual income, as assessed by Her Majesty's
Revenue and Customs does not exceed £16,190 as at 6 April 2011 (subject to annual
review *).
• Guarantee element of State Pension Credit
* This threshold is provided by the DFE and will change each year.
Meal Allowance
• A free meal allowance per day will be allocated to students against the cost of a main
meal;
• The Academy restaurant will provide a main meal option with dessert and drink (water)
that does not exceed the daily free meal allowance. However, students will be able to
make alternate choices and to use the free meal allowance in part payment for their
chosen meal. Extras, such as drinks or extra dessert, above the allowance value will need
to be paid for by parents/carers;
• The initial period of assistance is granted for three months. At the end of this period you
will be contacted by our Finance Office and asked to provide further confirmation that
you are still in receipt of benefits should you wish to continue with your claim;
• The Academy reserves the right to reclaim any Academy benefits that are overpaid as a
result of any financial misinformation received.

Uniform and Sports Kit
Assistance with the provision of uniform will be provided for those students whose parents
are in receipt of one of the benefits listed above. Parents should submit a Financial Assistance
Claim Form to the Finance Office in order for the Finance & Operations Director to assess
the level of assistance to be provided.
Trips and Visits
Deposits should, in all cases, be paid for in full by the parent/carer. To apply for assistance
with the remaining amount, a letter should be sent to the Finance & Operations Director
stating the reasons for the application. Reference should be made to the Academy’s Charging
and Remissions policy for further guidance.
Music Tuition
A letter should be sent to the Finance & Operations Director outlining the student’s musical
ability and willingness to learn.
Other Enquiries
All financial assistance queries should be made in writing to the Finance & Operations
Director.
In all ongoing cases, the parent/carer will be contacted by the Finance Office after three months
requesting that they provide further confirmation that they are still in receipt of benefits and that they
wish to continue to claim support.

SAFE INTERNET USE
Student Name:……………………………………………………… Form:……………
To gain access to the internet and email all students must obtain parental permission
as confirmed below.
The Academy recognises the value, and encourages the use, of computers, the internet and email.
We also believe that students must be taught to develop the appropriate skills to analyse and
evaluate such resources. These skills are a fundamental requirement in the society that our
students are entering. Students are therefore taught a code of behaviour for the use of ICT.
Students are expected to:
• Use all equipment carefully and sensibly making sure that it is not used to harm other
people or their work;
• Not share passwords with other people;
• Respect the work of others;
• Not access inappropriate or offensive materials;
• Report any inappropriate or offensive sites unwittingly accessed;
• Use only acceptable and appropriate language;
• Not reveal personal information;
• Not plagiarise (copy work and use as their own) and acknowledge any downloaded
material;
• Not play non-educational games or access material not directly related to educational
purposes;
• Not damage computer equipment in any way.
Any student breaking this code may have their access rights removed; there may also be further
sanctions in line with our Behaviour for Learning policy.
We support these guidelines:
1. Student Signature: ……………………………………….……... Date: ...................................
I also confirm that I have no objections to the fact that, on occasion, the Academy may wish to
use photographs or video footage of my child for publicity purposes. If I have any objections to
this policy I will report these, via letter, to Student Reception, Bedford Academy, Mile Road,
Bedford MK42 9TR
2. Parent/Carer Signature: …………………………………………Date: ...................................
Parent/Carer Name (Printed): ……………………………………………………………..