main-prospectus-2014-15

“Pupils at Castell Alun fully enjoy schoollife and participate enthusiasticallyin all the learning experiences andopportunities that the school provides.”ESTYN 20131

Contents2 Contact Information4 Welcome6 Head Teacher’s Welcome7 Student Support8 Vision and Values9 Enjoying School Life18 Outside the Taught DayOur SchoolLocal Authority19 E-Learning and Communication20 Admission to Castell Alun21 Charging and RemissionsStudent Development26 Sex and RelationshipsEducation Policy27 Careers Education28 School Day / Term Dates 2014 - 15Attendance 2013 - 1429 School MealsOut-Of-School-Hours Learning10 Engaging and Interactive LearningAdditional Needs30 School Uniform11 Space for Learning22 Proud to be Welsh32 Public Examination Results 2014Open Evening Wednesday 1 st October at 6.30pmOpen Mornings Thursday & Friday 2 nd & 3 rd October at 9.30am & 11.00amFor further information please telephone 01978 76023812 Community Partnerships13 High Aspirations15 School Information16 Celebrating Success23 Curriculum: Lower SchoolCurriculum: Upper School24 Curriculum: Sixth Form25 Religious Education and AssembliesEqual Opportunities36 Destinations of Students37 In Partnership with ParentsComplaints ProceduresSafeguarding at Castell Alun38 Home School AgreementCastell Alun High School, Fagl Lane, Hope, Flintshire LL12 9PYTel/Ffon: 01978 760238 Fax/Ffacs: 01978 760935Email/Ebost: castell_alun_high_school@flintshire.gov.ukwww.castellalun.com@CastellAlun23

Welcome to Castell Alun High SchoolYour journey begins here ...At Castell Alun we believe passionately in providing all of our students with the best possible learningopportunities and experiences. Whether it’s lessons, trips, sporting events or school productions,our team works tirelessly to prepare the young people in our community for an exciting future.Working together with parents andcarers, we aim to ensure that everylearner is guided, supported andnurtured through one of the mostimportant phases of life’s journey.Everyone remembers their time insecondary school; our aim is topack that time full of opportunitiesfor self expression and thedevelopment of new skills sothat our students can thrive in atop quality learning environmentand become successful.We surround every child withexceptional pastoral care, excitingand innovative teaching, andaccess to sport, dance, music,culture, fun and friendship.Our students flourish in thiscontext and our examinationoutcomes reflect our commitmentto every single boy and girl whojoins our special community.“The strong pastoral and curricular links with partner primary school contribute to the highlyeffective transition of pupils from Year 6 to Year 7.”Croeso i Ysgol Uwchradd Castell Alun4 ESTYN 20135

Head Teacher’s Welcome“The level or care, concern and respectpupils have for each other is outstanding.”ESTYN 2013Student SupportCastell Alun first opened its doors to the young peoplein our community over 55 years ago. Since then, theschool has grown not only in student numbers, butalso in its standing locally and nationally. Our schoolis built on core values of respect, hard work andresponsibility. As the school’s fifth Headteacher, I feelprivileged to continue this tradition, and challengedto further build on our wonderful reputation.Our staff team is incredibly committed. I fully appreciatethe time and effort our teachers and support staff put intoproviding all learners with the best possible opportunities tosucceed and enjoy school life. Our students are especiallypolite, willing and enthusiastic in all that they do. Perhapstheir biggest contribution is the care and kindness theyshow each other. This is quite exceptional and I feelplays a large part in Castell Alun being such a special,happy and welcoming place to learn and develop.The world is changing so fast it sometimes seems hardto keep up. We know our students need to develop intohighly skilled, adaptable and flexible lifelong learners, whocan excel in whatever challenges may face them in adultlife. They need a solid foundation built on high aspirations,traditional values, and access to an exciting range of learningexperiences to set them up for a rich, fulfilling and happylife. Please take the time to read this prospectus and comealong to one of our Open Mornings or the Open Evening toexperience our wonderful learning community for yourself.Student support is of the utmostimportance to us as it formsthe foundation for all that willbe achieved whilst at Castell Alun.It is essential that each of our studentsfeels part of the Castell Alun family andwe pride ourselves on the quality of careprovided by all members of the team, fromGroup Tutors to Student DevelopmentManagers and subject specialist teachers.We endeavour to keep in very closecontact with all students’ familiesand believe that a child’s educationis best served by whole-heartedengagement in a true partnershipbetween school and home.Graham HughesHead Teacher6 7

Vision and ValuesEnjoying School Life“The exceptional school ethos creates an extremely positive, inclusive and caring learning environmentthat brings about very high levels of pupil participation across the school and community.”ESTYN 2013We work diligently to provide every childwith an education which will empowerthem with the skills, knowledge andunderstanding they will need to prosperin modern society. Underpinning thiscommitment we have our School MissionStatement and Code of Conduct.We have very high standards at Castell Alunand, working with parents and carers, we cansay with considerable confidence that all ofour young people understand and play theirrole in abiding by our rules wholeheartedly.The most important thing tous is that our students areare relentless in nurturing anddeveloping them. We are ableworking with the wider studentbody, raise a tremendous amountCastell Alun is an inclusive school where everychild is expected to develop self-discipline,commitment and personal responsibility. Wehave proven systems for making sure that allstudents can find, explore and develop theirtalents, in whatever area these may be.Our team is highly skilled and totallycommitted to the school’s vision for learning.happy. Everything is built uponthis principle. Attendance atCastell Alun ranks as one ofthe very best in Wales. Thereis no doubt about it, the moreyou put into school life, themore you’ll get out of it.We offer a huge range of learningto boast ex-students runninghighly successful businesses,managing huge manufacturingplants, performing in the WestEnd, playing sport professionallyand several others who nowteach in our school.We listen carefully to our learnersof money every year for the schooland a broad range of charities.Many of our students volunteerin the local community. Theysupport, clubs, groups, teamsand other organisations. Ourstudents work hard, play hardand don’t waste a minute oractivities and experiences withinand respond to their suggestions.opportunity. Their outcomes atand beyond taught lessons,It is, after all, their school. We havethe end of Year 11 and 13 are ofand once we spot talents wea very active school council, who,course life changing for so many.8 9

Engaging and interactive learningSpace for learning“There is a comprehensiverange of learning resources,and teachers use themeffectively to support pupilsin their learning.”ESTYN 2013Teaching and Learning is at the core ofwhat we do. We believe that learning in ourschool is exciting, enjoyable and rewardingand we aim to provide our students with thebest possible opportunities to succeed.As a large school we are able to offer a huge rangeof subjects and great facilities. We treat all studentsas individuals and our staff know how to get thebest out of each child. We expect our learners toask questions, to challenge knowledge and growas independent life-long learners. Our studentsleave Castell Alun as confident young adults witha wealth of experiences behind them and brightfutures ahead. The school’s reputation locally andnationally also means that many of the very bestteachers choose to work at Castell Alun and our staffare immensely proud to be part of our success.Originally built in 1958, our school has grown and evolved to meetthe needs of the 21st century learner. We have wi-fi in every roomand other specialist facilities in a broad range of subjects.Our students have access to social areas, high quality dining facilitiesand the school itself is based in a lovely, quiet village setting. Wehave a vibrant, well stocked library, great sports facilities, study areasand well equipped classrooms. Our Sixth Form enjoys its own areasfor studying, snacking and socialising and our campus is clean,welcoming, bright, homely and well respected by all who use it.10 11

Community partnershipsHigh aspirationsAt Castell Alun we are proud to be part ofour local community. Our students are excellentambassadors for the school in the way they engagein our many varied links and partnerships.We raise large sums of money for local charitiesevery year and our Duke of Edinburgh Award Schemeand Welsh Baccalaureate involvement provide wellused platforms for community service.Our students put on high quality concertsin school and across our local area.Our adult education programme is long standingand we are constantly looking for ways toenhance and develop this facet of school life.A large number of ex-students live andwork locally and their children and evengrandchildren attend Castell Alun.We believe that all our students are capable ofimpressive things and we always encourage them toaspire to be the best they can be in everything they do.With careful, considered guidance and personal supportour students constantly achieve the examinationgrades of which they are capable and consequentlypursue further study or career paths which are ofreal interest to them. We work with our studentsto set ambitious, but achievable, targets in eachsubject and we monitor and support every learner.We welcome a great variety of visiting speakers intoschool each term to deliver presentations and provideworkshops about various aspects of life beyond school,including inputs from various professions andworthy charities. Castell Alun is now also recruiting exstudentsto come and visit groups of current students inorder to discuss particular career and further study paths.“Large sums ofmoney are raisedfor charity with astrong emphasison supporting‘local’ charities.”ESTYN 201312 13

School Information14 15

Celebrating successAt Castell Alun we want all studentsto succeed. We take every possibleopportunity to celebrate the contributionof our students and we pride ourselvesin giving students the recognitionthey deserve for their efforts.For students who have performed to thebest of their ability in a particular subjector won an award outside of school, we useour school website, electronic screens, themedia, newsletters and letters of recognitionto share these successes with others.For high performers in specific subjectsand those students who put exceptionaleffort into school work we recognisethis through certificates, prizes andawards during the school year.“Pupils show high levels ofcommitment and resilienceto develop their knowledgeand skills further.”ESTYN 20131617

Outside the taught dayOur SchoolE-Learning and CommunicationCastell Alun’s learning environment includes awell-stocked Library and Study Areas, as wellas several ICT suites. These areas are openthroughout the school day and are supervisedby staff during school hours. The pleasantworking atmosphere in the Library and StudyAreas, and the availability of help and advice,are much appreciated by staff and students.The ICT suites consist of networked computers equippedwith up-to-date software and the school also hasLearning happens in many different ways. AtCastell Alun, students are given the best possibleopportunities to enjoy learning, both in andout of the classroom. We offer a huge range ofextra curricular activities from music, dance anddrama to sport, debating and engineering.Our study club facility is available after school everyTuesday and Thursday and buses are providedCastell Alun is an English medium co-educationalschool catering for over 1350 students.Originally opened in 1958, there have been three stages inthe school’s development: firstly as an 11 - 16 SecondarySchool, then a short spell as a Junior Comprehensiveand, finally, its present status as an all through 11 - 18Comprehensive School. The school serves a number ofcommunities from Dobshill near Hawarden in the north, tospecialist computer facilities and software in Music andTechnology. Students make full use of ICT resourcesin a variety of subjects and ICT and digital literacy isregarded as an integral part of students’ development.To support this, classrooms are equipped with a digitalmultimedia projector that connects to a computer/iPadand there is a Virtual Learning Environment which studentscan access remotely thus offering access to the latestweb content, animations and presentations . The recentaddition of a wi-fi network aims to enhance the teachingand learning experience for all, engaging students in newand innovative ways. Communication with parents, carersand the wider community is very important to us.specifically to allow access to this provision.We pride ourselves on planning a great many stimulatingtrips for students, both locally and further afield, withat least three visits going abroad each year as well asa wealth of opportunities to explore the local area.Llay in the south and from Kinnerton near Chester in theeast, to Treuddyn in the west. We are located in the pleasantvillage of Hope, three miles from the border with Englandand roughly equidistant between Chester and Wrexham.This provides for a rich and balanced cultural mix of Englishand Welsh which is reflected in the ethos of the school.Our school website can be found at www.castellalun.com and we also have a very active ‘Twitter’ communityvia @castellalun. Along with email, these are usefulways in which to hear about the wonderful endeavoursof our students, and to keep updated on school news.18Local AuthorityThe Education Department Lifelong Learning DirectorateFlintshire County Council, County Hall, Mold, Flintshire CH7 6NDTelephone: 01352 70 40 68Chair of Governors: Councillor T W Jones O.B.E.Director of Lifelong Learning: Mr Ian Budd@CastellAlun www.castellalun.com“The extensive extra-curricular provision hashad a positive impact on pupils’ achievement,wellbeing and attitudes to learning.”ESTYN 201319

Admission to Castell AlunCharging and RemissionsApplication for AdmissionThe school follows the Local Authority’s charging policy document in relation toremissions, optional extras and activities organised by third parties.20The school takes 211 studentsinto Year 7 each year. For theacademic year 2014/1015 wereceived 242 written applications.There were 16 appeals, 7 ofwhich were successful.We are required to operate withinthe ‘Admission Arrangements’ aslaid down by the Local Authority,copies of which are available from:The Education Department,Lifelong Learning DirectorateFlintshire County CouncilCounty HallMoldFlintshireCH7 6NDTel: 01352 704068Parents or Carers of students in their final year of primary school willreceive a ‘Parental Preference Form’. Parents should, if they wish,indicate Castell Alun as their first choice of secondary school.Responsibility for school transport rests with the Local Authority.Transport will be provided for students where Castell Alun is the nearestschool to the home address, but only if the home address is morethan 3 miles from the school (measured along the shortest possibleroute). Occasionally, if a route is deemed to be ‘hazardous’ thentransport may be provided from addresses nearer to the school.There is close liaison between us and our local primary schools. Studentsdue to join Castell Alun in September are invited to visit the school for ourInduction Day during the Summer Term. Further information is provided atan evening, held in July, for those parents whose children will be starting atCastell Alun in September. Parents are welcome to visit the school at othertimes but are asked to make an appointment. Telephone: 01978 760238.Charges made will be those permissible under the Education Reform Act 1988 and associated Statutory Instruments.Student DevelopmentOn arrival at the school, each student joins a Tutor Groupunder the specific care of a Group Tutor. There is no order ofranking within the year as each group is seen as being equal.The allocation to groups takes place after liaison with thelocal primary schools. Castell Alun is organised for pastoralpurposes into Year Groups. Years 7, 8 and 9 make upthe Lower School. Years 10 and 11 make up the UpperSchool. Years 12 and 13 make up the Senior School.Each Year Group is comprised of a number ofTutor Groups, each with its own Group Tutor andled by a Student Development Manager.“The school works well with a rangeof external agencies to meet thespecific needs of individual studentsand offers useful informationregarding career paths.”ESTYN 2013Additional NeedsThe school aims to provide access tothe whole curriculum for students withadditional needs through a number ofsupport strategies. The school is adaptedfor students with mobility disabilities.We have a Disability Access Plan whichoutlines anticipated future improvements.The school welcomes students with additionalneeds, with or without statements, in the sameway as other children. The Additional NeedsRegister lists these students and is circulatedto every member of staff. Students needingsupport in literacy and numeracy are monitoredand given access to small group teaching duringEnglish and Mathematics lessons. Additionalhelp with reading and/or spelling skills isprovided by a basic skills teacher who works withstudents on a rotating extraction programme.We also have ‘Nurture Groups’ in Year 7.These offer small groups of students a moreintimate and supportive curriculum whilst theyadjust to the demands of secondary schooleducation. The member of staff responsiblefor promoting the educational achievementof looked after children is Mr Carl Pugh. 21

Proud to be WelshCurriculumWhilst Castell Alun is an English MediumSchool, the Welsh culture is emphasisedWelsh if they have not studiedWelsh in the school curriculum forLower SchoolUpper Schoolthroughout the school in many areas.The Welsh Department plays an important role inensuring the delivery of the language through itsteaching provision but also promotes the cultureof Wales in a number of extra-curricular activities.Welsh is used in main school assemblies and theCurriculum Cymreig is an integral part of subjectspecific schemes of work throughout the school.Students who enter the school in the final year of KeyStage 3 or during Key Stage 4 may be exempted fromthe normal National Curriculum requirements to studyat least one academic year in anyof the three preceding academicyears. However, even though thestatutory requirements to teachWelsh does not apply to thosestudents who meet the abovecriteria, the Governing Body andHeadteacher may decide thatthe subject should be taught.The understanding of the Welsh culture and languageis extended in the Sixth Form through participationin the Welsh Baccalaureate qualification.In Year 7, every child will followa timetable comprising:EnglishExpressive Arts(Games, Gymnastics/Dance, Music)Humanities(Geography, History, ReligiousEducation)Languages(French and Welsh)MathematicsScienceTechnologyThe aim of the Upper Schoolis to provide each student witha balanced curriculum whichcaters for individual interestsand aptitudes, without closingtoo many avenues of study.Towards the end of Year 9students are asked to choosefrom a number of options andthis process is carried outwith full consultation betweenparents, students and staff.Details of option programmesare provided in a separatebooklet distributed during theSpring Term of Year 9. A Parents’Evening for Year 9 students isheld prior to the final optionchoice. Students also study theIntermediate Welsh Baccalaureatequalification, elements of whichinclude Essential Skills, WorkrelatedEducation, P.S.E andWales, Europe and the wider world(including a languages module).ArtInformation TechnologyALL subjects are included withinthe framework of the NationalCurriculum. In addition studentswill experience: Personal andSocial Education (PSE), anAssembly (Year or Group) andWhole School Assembly.“Pupils’ understanding of Welsh culture and traditions is developedwell through a range of subjects and extra-curriccular activitiesincluding an annual Eisteddfod.”“The Welsh Baccalaureate qualification in Key Stage 4 and in the Sixth Form is astrong feature. The course provides a wide range of opportunities for pupils to improvetheir skills, which include beneficical activities to support the community.”22ESTYN 2013ESTYN 201323

CurriculumReligious Education and AssembliesSixth FormThe Sixth Form at CastellStudents are expected to attend regular whole school and year assemblies.Students also follow a course of Religious Studies (which is also offered as an optional examination subject in the UpperSchool). Parents have the right to withdraw their child from these activities on written application to the school. All tutorgroups engage in a daily act of collective worship, including time for reflection, which is broadly Christian in nature.Alun offers wide-rangingeducational opportunities.Students are expected to adopta mature pattern of behaviourand attitude, to transmitEqual Opportunitiesthis by example to youngerstudents, and to contribute tothe school and its values.Each student in the Sixth Form isuniversities who recognise thatand national averages. SubjectThe school is committed to the principle of equal opportunity for all. Initiativesdesigned to further this principle are actively promoted and supported.We seek to encourage the development of attitudes which endorse the equal worth of all individuals and toensure that all aspects of the curriculum and administration subscribe to the principle of equal opportunities.guided, supported and monitoredfrom the outset. At Castell Alunwe are very proud of the guidancestudents from the Sixth Form atCastell Alun achieve academically,and have developed qualitieschoices include a range of level 3courses at AS/A Level and BTEC.Information about courses andStaff aim to devise teaching, learning and class management strategies that emphasise the principle ofequal worth and in doing this we attempt to lay the foundations of a just and equitable society.programme we have developed.which enhance their chosen careeroption choices is conveyed toThis has enabled a great manyor Higher Education course.parents during the Spring Term instudents over the years to obtain aYear Eleven. As an extension toplace in Higher/Further Education.Castell Alun has had consistentlysubjects offered in the Sixth Form,This programme is complementedgood exam results for a numberall students undertake the Welshby liaison with employers andof years that exceed both countyBaccalaureate at Advanced level.“Pupils develop self confidence and their socialand life skills extremely effectively.”ESTYN 20132425

Sex and Relationships Education PolicyCareers EducationIn accordance with the requirements of the 1986Education Act, the governors of the school reviewedand approved the Sex Education Programmeoffered to our students. This policy has beenupdated in line with statutory requirementsand approved by the Governing Body.The Policy states:The Governors judged thatthe Sex and RelationshipsEducation Programmeis being delivered with‘due regard to moralconsideration of thevalue of family life’ (asdelineated in the Act).‘All students, whatever their background, should beencouraged to appreciate the value of stable familylife, marriage/partnerships and the responsibilitiesof parenthood. They should be helped to considerthe importance of self restraint, dignity, respectfor themselves and others and acceptance ofresponsibility, sensitive to the needs and viewsof others and of loyalty and commitment’.The Governors alsoresolved that Sex andRelationships Educationwill be deliveredwithin the ‘Health’unit through the P.S.E. Programme, supported bythe National Curriculum relating to Science.Resources for the unit will be selected anddeveloped with regard for the age of the students,within a moral framework and be consistent withGovernors’ Policy and Statutory Requirements.Sex and Relationships Education forms a compulsory partof the curriculum for all students but any parent wishingto withdraw their child from the Sex and RelationshipsEducation Unit of the PSE Programme should applyin writing in the first instance to the Headteacher.Careers guidance begins in the Lower Schooland is made available to students of Year 9 priorto their options and entry to the Upper School.Careers Wales staff are available for interviews withindividual students and parents under the direction ofMrs Gemma Doran, Careers and World of Work Leader.26All materials are available for inspection by parentsor carers. If any parent wishes to preview thesematerials then they should contact the school.A modular programme is followed by all students ofthe Upper School in conjunction with the CareersService, (Careers Wales), which offers each student ofYear 11 an individual advice and counselling session.Sixth Form students are provided with active careersadvice. They are given guidance on subject choicesand how these impact on university courses and futureemployment opportunities. All students in Years 10and 12 take part in a week of work experience.27

School DayTerm Dates 2014 -15School Meals (Facilities Services: Catering Division)8.45 am Warning bell(students and staff to group bases)8.50 am Morning registration8.55 am Morning session10.40 - 10.55 am BREAK12.05 pm LUNCH (End of morning session)12.53 pm Warning bell12.55 pm Afternoon session3.15 pm End of school dayAttendance 2013 -14AUTUMN Students’ TERM Attendance FiguresMonday 13 st rd September 2013 School - 23 rd closed May 2014- Staff Training DayAttendanceTuesday 2 nd September School closed95Unauthorised Absence - Staff Training Day0.1%Wednesday 3 rd September School reopensThursday 23 rd October School closes - Half TermFriday 24 th October School closed- Staff Training DayMonday 3 rd November School reopensFriday 19 th December School closes- Christmas holidaySPRING TERMMonday 5 th January School closed- Staff Training DayTuesday 6 th January School reopensFriday 13 th February School closes - Half TermOut-of-School-Hours LearningStudents are encouraged to play a full part in the life of the school anda wide range of activities are offered at lunchtime and after school.A range of food is available each day from the‘Food Court’, which provides a choice of fullmeals and a range of substantial ‘snack’ meals.All items are individually priced, but each day a setmeal for around £2.15 is available from the main diningroom. Students are welcome to bring in a packed lunch.Drinks are available from vending machines in theschool, and drinking water is available from fountainssituated around the school. Eligibility for free schoolmeals can be discussed with the School Office.“Pupils understandthe importance of‘healthy living’ well.”ESTYN 2013Students’ Attendance Figures3 rd September 2013 - 23 rd May 2014Attendance 95 %Unauthorised Absence 0.1%Monday 23 rd February School reopensFriday 27 th March School closes- Easter holidaySUMMER TERMMonday 13 th April School opensMonday 4 th May School closed - May DayFriday 22 nd May School closes - Half TermThese normally include:Athletics, Badminton, Basketball, Choirs,Cricket, Dance, Drama groups, Hockey,Rugby, School Jazz Band, Football, UrddNetball, Eisteddfod preparation and lunchtimeand after school subject study groups.Monday 1 st June School reopensFriday 17 th July School closes- Summer holidayStudy Club runs on Tuesday and Thursdayevenings from 3:30pm to 4:40pm.28Monday 20 th July School closed- Staff Training DayFree buses that cover all the normalbus routes are available at 4:45pm.29

School UniformThe school expects a high standard of uniform dress from each studentand we are sure that this policy will be supported.Make-up and nail varnish are not permitted in school. Jewellery can be hazardous for certain activitiesduring the school day. Only one pair of plain ear studs may be worn (one in each ear lobe). One plain signet ringmay be worn but large sovereign type rings are unsuitable. A watch is permitted but no other bracelets, bangles,necklaces or arm bands. Body / facial jewellery is not permitted, i.e. nose, eye, tongue studs, spacers etc.For safety reasons, long hair must be kept under control and extreme hair styles and colours are not acceptable(this includes shaven heads including grade 1’s). We have always considered natural hair colour to be acceptable; hairwhich is peroxide blonde / white or an unnatural / contrasting colour is outside the normal range. Failure to abide bythis rule may result in removal from lessons and / or break times. Excessive use of hairspray, gel or mousse is also notallowed for safety reasons. Care must also be taken when using aerosols so as not to cause problems for asthmatics.BASIC UNIFORMOutdoor wear Coat (denims, leather jackets and track suit style tops are not acceptable).An optional rain jacket with school badge is available.V-neck sweater: Black with embroidered school badge.(Only available from school supplier - round neck sweaters are not acceptable).ShirtWhite (conventional style buttoned to collar).PHYSICAL EDUCATIONGIRLS AND BOYS KITRugby andSoccer ShirtShortsSocksBootsShinpadsSweatshirt(boys only)Reversible shirt - (black and yellow)Black (football style)Black footballStudded soccer or rugby for winter gamesSafety for football lessons(girls only) Black with Castell Alun logoTraining (optional) Plain black (no stripes)Bottomswith Castell Alun logoFitnessleggingsSkort(girls only) Plain black must besports dri-fit 3/4 length only(girls only) Black with yellow stripesand Castell Alun logoTrousersPlain black tailored style(jeans / canvas or skinny / tapered / skin tight trousers are not acceptable).TrainingshoesCanvas shoes are not allowed- only sports trainersSkirtPlain black (approximately knee length).TowelFor games lessonsSchool tieGold with narrow black stripe - Lower School. (Ties are available for purchase from school).Black with narrow gold stripe - Upper School. (Ties are available for purchase from school).SCHOOL SUPPLIER30Socks/TightsFootwearBoys: Plain dark coloured socks.Girls: With trousers - plain dark coloured socks.Girls: With skirts - plain black, opaque tights or black ankle socks.Black shoes (not more than 2 centimetres heel). NB: Trainers/black pumps or plimsolls are not permitted.If wearing boots for bad weather, a change of footwear will be required for indoor wear.Items of the Physical Education uniform together withthe school sweater and rain jacket are available from:Forrester Sports, New Street, MoldTelephone: 01352 75 66 3631

Public Examination Results 2014ResultsKey Stage 3 OutcomesPercentage of students achieving level 5 or aboveSchool LA WalesEnglish 94.1% 89.4% 85.9%Mathematics 96.4% 88.7% 86.5%Science 97.7% 91.3% 90.4%Core Subject Indicator 91.9% 84.3% 81%GCSE Subjects Entries A* A B C D E F G U A*-C A*-GArt & Design GCSE / FC 47 6 3 12 13 13 0 0 0 0 34 72.34% 47 100%Biology GCSE / FC 65 5 17 26 13 4 0 0 0 0 61 93.85% 65 100%Business (Voc) GCSE / FC 23 3 5 4 1 3 2 2 0 3 13 56.52% 20 87%Chemistry GCSE / FC 65 10 19 17 14 5 0 0 0 0 60 92.31% 65 100%D&T Food Technology GCSE / FC 23 0 0 6 5 7 5 0 0 0 11 47.83% 23 100%D&T Product Design GCSE / FC 38 1 2 6 7 10 9 3 0 0 16 42.11% 38 100%Drama GCSE / FC 9 1 1 2 4 0 1 0 0 0 8 88.89% 9 100%English Language GCSE / FC 213 4 29 50 72 45 11 2 0 0 155 72.77% 213 100%English Literature GCSE / FC 193 5 41 68 55 23 1 0 0 0 169 87.56% 193 100%French GCSE / FC 52 2 10 12 13 11 3 1 0 0 37 71.15% 52 100%Geography GCSE / FC 61 8 9 19 6 11 5 2 1 0 42 68.85% 61 100%German GCSE / FC 15 0 1 3 5 5 0 0 1 0 9 60.00% 15 100%Health & Social Care GCSE / FC 25 0 0 0 8 8 4 3 2 0 8 32.00% 25 100%History GCSE / FC 107 7 28 40 17 10 3 2 0 0 92 85.98% 107 100%Law GCSE / FC 3 0 0 1 0 2 0 0 0 0 1 33.33% 3 100%Mathematics GCSE / FC 213 27 28 49 68 21 10 7 3 0 172 80.75% 213 100%Music GCSE / FC 26 7 4 10 1 2 2 0 0 0 22 84.62% 26 100%Physics GCSE / FC 65 9 22 21 10 2 1 0 0 0 62 95.38% 65 100%Religious Studies GCSE / FC 93 7 15 28 24 10 7 1 1 0 74 79.57% 93 100%Religious Studies GCSE / SC 116 0 1 12 26 32 31 12 2 0 39 33.62% 116 100%Science (Core) GCSE / FC 136 3 5 5 66 25 15 9 5 3 79 58.09% 133 98%“Performance at Key Stage 4 in qualifications that includeEnglish and Mathematics has been strong over recent years.”Science: Additional GCSE / FC 83 5 6 12 39 17 2 1 1 0 62 74.70% 83 100%Science: Astronomy GCSE / FC 7 1 4 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 7 100.00% 7 100%Sport/PE Studies GCSE / FC 41 0 10 14 7 8 2 0 0 0 31 75.61% 41 100%32ESTYN 2013Welsh (Second Language) GCSE / FC 48 3 19 19 5 2 0 0 0 0 46 95.83% 48 100%Welsh (Second Language) GCSE / SC 147 0 8 39 41 30 13 13 2 1 88 59.86% 146 99%33

Public Examination Results 2014A Level ResultsA Level Subjects Entries A* A B C D E A*-B A*-EBusiness (Voc) 7 0 0 1 1 3 2 1 14.29% 7 100.00%Health & Social Care 5 0 0 0 3 1 1 0 0.00% 5 100.00%Performing Arts (Voc) 2 0 1 1 0 0 0 2 100.00% 2 100.00%Biology 32 1 5 8 11 4 2 14 43.75% 31 96.88%Chemistry 32 1 7 12 6 5 1 20 62.50% 32 100.00%Physics 21 0 4 10 5 2 0 14 66.67% 21 100.00%Mathematics 30 1 9 9 6 1 2 19 63.33% 28 93.33%Mathematics Further 2 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 50.00% 2 100.00%Art & Design 11 0 3 2 3 3 0 5 45.45% 11 100.00%Geography 8 1 1 0 2 2 2 2 25.00% 8 100.00%History 44 4 12 21 6 1 0 37 84.09% 44 100.00%Economics 8 0 1 1 2 3 1 2 25.00% 8 100.00%Religious Studies 29 1 5 13 8 1 1 19 65.52% 29 100.00%Law 9 0 1 2 2 3 1 3 33.33% 9 100.00%Psychology 36 2 1 9 10 12 2 12 32.43% 36 97.30%English Literature 23 2 4 8 8 0 1 14 60.87% 23 100.00%Drama 3 0 1 1 0 1 0 2 66.67% 3 100.00%French 5 0 1 2 1 1 0 3 60.00% 5 100.00%German 3 0 0 1 2 0 0 1 33.33% 3 100.00%Music 9 0 2 1 5 1 0 3 33.33% 9 100.00%Sport/PE Studies 11 2 0 1 3 3 2 3 27.27% 11 100.00%D&T Food Technology 6 0 1 1 0 3 1 2 33.33% 6 100.00%D&T Product Design 6 0 2 1 1 1 1 3 50.00% 6 100.00%34Vocational Subjects Entries Distinction* Distinction Merit Pass Distinction or above Pass or aboveBTEC Sport Level 3 17 5 3 5 4 8 47.06% 17 100%BTEC Media Level 3 5 3 0 1 1 3 60.00% 5 100%OCR Nationals level 3 ICT 12 0 5 3 4 5 41.67% 12 100%35

Key Stage 4 Vocational Qualifications 2014In Partnership with ParentsVocational Subjects Entries Distinction* Distinction Merit Pass U Distinction or above Pass or abovePerf Arts (Dance) BTEC / EC2 12 4 4 4 0 0 8 66.67% 12 100.00%Applied Sciences BTEC / CE2 64 1 9 12 42 0 10 15.63% 64 100.00%Art and Design Voc BTEC / EC2 39 4 0 13 22 0 4 10.26% 39 100.00%CAD (Industrial) NQF / L2 9 0 0 0 9 0 0 0.00% 9 100.00%Computer Use NQF / L2 6 0 0 5 1 0 0 0.00% 6 100.00%OCR Nat ICT / AW2 3 0 2 1 0 0 2 66.67% 3 100.00%We believe that educatingchildren is a process that is bestdone in partnership with parents.For this reason we like to ensurethat information is passed on fromschool as appropriate throughnewsletters, prospectuses,bulletins, year books, informationletters and other documents.We actively promote the positiveimage of our school in the mediaand on the school’s website andseek feedback from parentsand other members of the widercommunity at regular intervals.Parents who are unhappy withtheir children appearing in themedia should inform the school.OCR Nat ICT / FA2 20 0 7 8 5 0 7 35.00% 20 100.00%Creative i-Media CE2 7 0 0 0 6 1 0 0.00% 6 85.71%Creative i-Media EC2 5 0 0 0 4 1 0 0.00% 4 80.00%Additional Mathematics L2 53 0 9 11 18 15 9 16.98% 38 71.70%Public Services BTEC / EC2 4 0 0 2 2 0 0 0.00% 4 100.00%Sports Studies BTEC Cert / CE2 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0.00% 1 100.00%Sports Studies BTEC Ext Cert / EC2 22 11 2 4 5 0 13 59.09% 22 100.00%Destinations of Students Over the age of 16 years - August 2014Joined School Sixth Form 58.87%Entered Further Education elsewhere 30.12%Job Training/Apprenticeship 6.4%Employed 4.3%Unemployed and Registered with Careers Office 0%Unemployed and not Registered with Careers Office 0%Unknown 1%Complaints ProceduresUnder the terms of Section 23 ofthe Education Reform Act 1988,procedures have been laid downconcerning complaints madeby parents or others on specificitems concerning the deliveryof the National Curriculum.(These procedures DO NOT covercomplaints of any other nature).At Castell Alun, we aim to createand maintain a healthy and safeenvironment for all membersof our school community.Any concerns expressed by parentsand others about the schoolcurriculum and related matters willcontinue to be considered and, sofar as possible, dealt with throughinformal discussion with teachersand the Headteacher in the firstinstance. Where the issue is notresolved, the matter may then bethe subject of a formal complaintSafeguarding at Castell AlunWe have a considerable numberof policies in place to supportthis, with due regard given tocurrent national legislation.and, if appropriate, referred to theGoverning Body. If deliberationsfail to provide a satisfactoryoutcome, the issue will then bereferred to the Local Authority.The school also has a procedurefor dealing with generalcomplaints and copies of TheSchool’s Complaints Policy aremade available upon request.Copies of these policies areavailable for the school by request.36These figures are approximate at the time of printing. Due to rounding the total may not be 100%.37

Home School AgreementThe school is committed to:• high quality learning experiences• high expectations• continuous improvement and development• providing opportunities to experience, recogniseand celebrate success for all.Our Code of Conduct clearly stateswhat is expected of each of our young people:• respect others• be polite• be well presented and dress appropriately• behave properly both in and out of school• be punctual and well prepared for work• move around the school in a safe and civilised way• take pride in the whole school environment• maintain a reputation for being trustworthy and reliable.• take pride in the whole school environment• maintain a reputation for being trustworthy and reliable.‘At Castell Alun we have always emphasisedthe importance of school and parents workingtogether in partnership. We believe thatcommitment to this partnership is essentialif each young person is to achieve their fullpotential’.The School’s CommitmentGovernors, Headteacher and Staff arecommitted to doing their best to ensure thatall students have access to a broad, balancedcurriculum and receive a quality education inan environment which develops a strong senseof social, cultural, moral and spiritual values.We are also committed to:• Encouraging attitudes and behaviour whichdevelop honest, polite, well behaved, youngpeople who respect themselves, staff, eachother, their community and property (as outlinedin our Behaviour and Discipline Booklet).• Developing the personal qualities andtalents possessed by our students.• Providing support for all our students.• Providing equality of opportunity regardlessof gender, race, disability or creed.• Building partnerships with parents.• Informing parents regularly regardingthe progress of students.• Setting Homework on a regular basis to assiststudents’ learning and raise standards.• Working with outside agencies for the benefitof students’ academic and pastoral welfare.• Provide opportunities to experience,recognise and celebrate success for all.Parents’ CommitmentFor our school to be successful, we requireparents to demonstrate their supportby ensuring their commitment to:• Supporting the school’s Behaviour and DisciplineCode by working in partnership with staff.• Ensuring that their child is on time for school andattends regularly. (Parents are responsible forensuring regular and punctual attendance andshould notify school if their child cannot attend).• Providing the necessary uniform andequipment in line with school regulations.• Supporting the school by ensuring that thehigh standards of behaviour demanded bythe school are followed at all times (includingduring journeys to and from school).• Supporting the school’s homework schedule bychecking and signing student organisers each week.• Ensuring their child does not behave outsideschool in a manner which will bring the goodname of the school and family into disrepute.• Ensuring that their child abides by the school’santi-bullying policy and reporting any incidentsof bullying of which they become aware.• Ensuring that they inform the school of anyrelevant changes in the home situation (ie changeof address, emergency contact numbers etc)and including any concerns or problems whichcould affect their child’s work or behaviour.Students’ CommitmentAt Castell Alun there is a requirementthat students will:• Always abide by the Code of Conduct andthe Behaviour and Discipline procedure.• Always be polite and courteous to allstudents and adults within the school.• Always obey the anti-bullying policy and report anyincidents of bullying that they become aware of.• Maintain high standards of discipline bothinside and outside the classroom.• Be punctual, attend regularly and be preparedfor lessons with the necessary equipment.• Be dressed correctly in full school uniform.• Do not behave in a manner which will damagethe good name of the school and/or their familyat any time, both inside and outside school.• Take pride in the school and local environment.• Work to the very best of their ability at all times.• Be prepared to help and showconsideration for others.• Ensure that homework is always completed on time.Uniform information - see pages 30 and 31.3839

Castell Alun High School, Fagl Lane, Hope, Flintshire LL12 9PYTel/Ffon: 01978 760238 Fax/Ffacs: 01978 760935 www.castellalun.comEmail/Ebost: castell_alun_high_school@flintshire.gov.uk@CastellAlunCover artwork by Students of Castell Alun High School4041