Newsletter - Thomas Adams School

THOMAS ADAMS SCHOOL, WEMincorporatingADAMS COLLEGE SIXTH FORM CENTREADAMS HOUSE (BOARDING)Acting Headteacher: Elizabeth Dakin BSoc Sci (Hons)Senior Deputy Headteacher: Julie McGurrin BEd (Hons)Deputy Headteacher: Mark Cooper BA (Hons)Dear ParentWelcome to a new term at Thomas Adams, particularly for those students and families joiningus for the first time. We wish you all every success.For those who don’t know me, I am Elizabeth Dakin and I have been at Thomas Adams for 22years, the last seven as Deputy Head. I will be Acting Head for the time being, and wish toreassure you that Thomas Adams will continue to be a community that is hardworking, caringand high achieving with an experienced Senior Management Team and dedicated staff. Wehave an ‘open door’ policy, so we would encourage you to get in touch if you have anyconcerns or issues that you wish to discuss. Relevant phone numbers including my ownmobile are included in this issue.I am sure you would join us in thanking Mr Hemming for his 17 years service at ThomasAdams, including seven as Headteacher, and to wish him well for his retirement. He tells mehis chard and radishes have never looked so good!I look forward to working closely with you and thank you for your continued support.StaffStaff retirements/leaversOur best wishes go to:Teaching Staff Mr N Hemming who retires as Headteacher Mr S White who retires from the Maths department Miss L McCarter who leaves for a promotion as Head of Media Mrs Hosie-Kingham who retires from teaching but has chosen to come back and join ourranks of Teaching Assistants Mrs J Kotas who leaves the MFL department to pastures new Miss H Thomas who leaves for a promotion as Second in Science Mr M Brown who leaves as Head of Music for a similar postSupport Staff Miss H Page who joins Oswestry Hospital on a Graduate Scheme Miss S Hinton who goes to Teacher Training Miss H Millington who leaves to go to Keele University

We welcome:To the teaching staff Miss L Chadwick – covering maternity leave for Lisa Sullivan Miss E Hore in the Maths department Mr A Gilbert and Miss J Perry in the Science department Miss A Holmes in the English department Mrs V Florey and Mrs B Whitebridge in the Music department for six weeks until Mrs RHeywood arrives as Head of Music Mr S Moss who joins us as Head of Business Studies as Mr M Telford reduces hours Miss E Sargent who is covering for Mrs H Lloyd on maternity leave Miss S Wardell who is covering for Mrs A Gilbert also on maternity leave Mr A Jones, who is now teaching in the Media departmentTo the support staff Mr J Archer, Mrs N Bowman, Mr S Fischer, Miss L Tweddle (soon to be Mrs Sheriff)Changing Staff RolesIn the current situation we have a number of roles that have changed on a temporary basis.Mrs J McGurrin - Senior Deputy Head (Pastoral Care)Mr M Cooper – Deputy Head, Academic (Teaching & Learning)Dr L Garside – Senior Assistant Head – deals with outside agencies & Child ProtectionBut we welcome on to the Senior Management Team for this period:Mr M Ashley – Assistant Head – Timetable, Options/MonitoringMr T McAleavy – Academic Support, Teaching & LearningMr S Radford – Assessment & MonitoringOther Staff Roles:Mrs K Strafford becomes 2 nd in department for MathsMrs R Williams replaces Mrs H Lloyd as Careers/Works Experience Coordinator for this yearWe wish all these every success in their new ventures over the forthcoming year.Pastoral team – a reminder of thepastoral team for 2013-2014:Ms Holland – Head of Year 7Miss Mooney –Head of Year 8Mr Jones – Head of Year 9Mr Douthwaite/Miss Slim – Head of Year 10Mr Munro – Head of Year 11Mrs Withey – Director of Sixth-Form: Headof Years 12 and 13Remember you can see a list of all staff andtheir roles and responsibilities on ourwebsite. Click on Thomas Adams School,Prospectus and follow the link from there.Governing BodyThe School is very happy to put on record itsthanks to its governors for their commitmentand support of the School. The governors givefreely of their own time and really do make apositive and significant contribution to the lifeof the School, in particular via the numerouscommittees which oversee and monitor thework we do.The School’s current Chair of Governors isMr Colin Weaver and Vice-Chair is Mr DavidBlack.You can see a list of all governors of theschool on our website. Click on ThomasAdams, Prospectus and follow the link fromthere.

Useful Phone NumbersAbsence: 01939 237000Pastoral Desk: 01939 237070Mrs E Dakin 01939 237000 (school time) or 07757 809876 (anytime)Mr M Cooper: 01939 237084 (school time)Other Enquiries: 01939 237000School email: enquiries@thomasadams.org.ukExamination results 2013Well done to all our students taking examinations this summer who again have contributedto our successful results in a difficult changing national picture.GCSE results : congratulations Year 1176.2% of the cohort achieved 5+ or more A*-C grades66% of students gained 5 or more A*-C gradesincluding English and Maths99% of students gained 5 or more A*-G gradesOver 20% of all GCSE grades were A*/ASeveral students gained all A*/A grades!A level results : congratulations Year 13most students gained admittance to their first choice university97% pass rate40% of all grades were A*-Bapproaching three-quarters of all grades were A*-C27 subjects gained a 100% pass rateThere were many notable individual achievements.School Open Evening – Tuesday 8 OctoberParents with a son/daughter in Year 6We will host an Information Evening for parents with a son/daughter in Year 6 on18 September at 7.15pm at our Lowe Hill site. The evening will aim to take you through theadmissions process for secondary schools in North Shropshire as well as giving you salientinformation with regard to Thomas Adams. A representative from the Admissions team atShropshire Council will also be present to answer any queries you may have.This is then followed by our Open Day and Open Evening on 8 October 2012. On that dayprospective parents (and sons/daughters, if you so wish) are able to participate in a tour ofthe School: arrive at Lowe Hill for 10.30am for the morning tour or 1.30pm if you wish topartake of the afternoon visit. There is no need to book in advance.Our Open Evening is also on 8 October and you can arrive at any time from 7.15pm. Thiswill give you the opportunity to ask questions of the staff and students in an informal setting.Please make a note of the date in your diary: everyone is welcome!

College Open Evening – Thursday 24 OctoberParents with a son/daughter in Year 11Our Adams College Open Evening begins with a brief talk in the Stanier Hall at our NobleStreet site at 7.15pm. You will then be able to visit our Noble Street campus to talk withstaff and sixth-form students about the wide range of courses on offer at the College. Again,everyone is welcome to attend and we look forward to seeing you there!Please note: if you wish to see either the Lower School or Adams College in action at adifferent time to suit your commitments, then please do not hesitate to be in touch withMrs Dakin or Mrs Withey (Principal of Adams College). We will be more than happy toarrange a convenient time for you to visit.Adams College Enrichment – Years 12 and 13Beauty and the Beast – Monday 16 December, Clwyd Theatr CymruAdams College are running a trip to see Beauty and the Beast at Clwyd Theatr Cymru in Moldon Monday 16 December. The panto promises to be a perfect festive treat and something wehope our students will enjoy.The coach will leave the Stanier Hall at 12.00pm and return at approximately 6.30pm; parentsare asked to ensure their son/daughter is able to get home safely on return from the theatre.Tickets will be limited (47) and will be issued on a “first come, first served” basis. The cost willbe £15.00 to cover the cost of the ticket and transport. Form available from the StudentServices Office and needs to be returned by Friday 18 October to secure a place.House News!Congratulations to Caradoc and Corndon!Caradoc won the House Cup, for the highest total of House points awarded throughout2012-2013. Meanwhile Corndon won the Sports Cup.House Captains 2013-2014Following the House Captain Challenge towards the end of last term, this year’s HouseCaptains have now been announced: see list below. Well done to everyone who participatedand congratulations to our new House Captains.CLEEMr AllenLAWLEYMr CarneyHAUGHMONDMs DakinCARADOCMrs BullockCORNDONMrs KempsterHAWKSTONEMrs ColganGRINSHILLMs BerryHouseCaptainCerysWeaverRyanCookeMelinaAthanassiuAbigailDowningJesse LaddCiaraO’FlahertyBenPartridgeViceCaptainElla LordCharlotteHallSilje OtteKieranRavenscroftLouisEdwardsEmillieLewis-ApplebyHollyO’ConnorCitizenshipCaptainJessRobertsJordannaHallAlexCytowskaEmmaRigbyCharleyBerryJonathanDaviesChloeWhittakerMediaCaptainTomBeeverEstherBarberRachelLokierHarry RileyJackPrescottMeganClarkeStephanieWhiteheadBoys’ SportCaptainCharlieRushworthRobertBrierleyJack LavisCallumLinklater-JonesEd ReidChrisHughesBenHowellsGirls’SportCaptainCharlotteClorleyHannahSmitherLouiseBebbHannahGriffithsStephanieWrightFrancisHillHollyBlaylockEnvironmentCaptainCourtneyGaffney-PritchardBroganDickinsonJamesChadwickKatie DaviesDanielShieldsKarinaMaloneLucy Morgan

School BuildingsMy thanks go to Mr Nealeand his team for theirunstinting commitmentthroughout July and August as part of ouron-going refurbishment programme.The school was delighted to receive a grantfrom the Wolfson Foundation. This hasenabled us to adapt for a Sciencedemonstration room in our 6 th form blockto enable more practical demonstrations totake place.We have also had a completely new firealarm system fitted.CHAT – Confidential Help andAdvice for TeenagersThis well-established service offers helpand advice to teenagers on a range ofissues relating to health, bullying, stress,careers and relationships, or, indeed,whatever is on their mind. This multiagencyinitiative has been effective indeveloping still further the strong traditionthe School has for supporting students inall aspects of life and we are very pleasedthat we remain in a position to continue tooffer this service.‘Planning for Homework’ booklets– Key Stage 3You should all now have your booklets.These outline the homework schedules for2013-14 for each of the Key Stage 3 yeargroups. They are also available forperusal on the School’s website.School Photographs – Years 7 &10The school photographer is in at the startof term to take your child(ren)’s portrait.Parents with children in Years 7 and 10will receive a ‘proof photocard’ inapproximately 2 weeks, from which youwill be able to order from a selection ofpackages, should you wish to. You will beallowed 2 weeks to order your photos andthen your order will be returned to schoolwithin approximately 3 weeks after thedeadline date.Adams House (Boarding)Our boarding house, Adams House,contributes so positively to school and collegelife and is flourishing. We are now looking torecruit for September 2014.Mrs Nicki Cooper is our Head of Boarding andcan be contacted on (01939) 233311.School Meals/Free School MealsFrom the start of the Autumn term, the valueof a free meal is £2.15 per day. If you are onincome support, income based job seekers’allowance and in some cases child tax credit,you are probably eligible for free meals for yourchild. Please contact Mrs Orrell at School ifyou have any queries about free meals. Adviceon eligibility for free meals is also availablefrom Shropshire County Council on 01743250250.As part of our overall health educationprogramme, we continue to work with ShireServices to try to ensure that the food offered isas healthy as possible. We expect to see acontinuation of the noticeable shift in students’choice of food to more traditionalmeals and the ‘healthy foods’on offer.Chaplaincy 2013-14The work of the School’s Chaplains is verymuch appreciated, not only by providing aspiritual aspect to the life of the Schoolthrough ‘Thought for the Week’ duringassemblies but also by providing a comforting‘listening ear’ for families and students duringdifficult times.A big thank you to Phil Wright who has becomeour School Chaplain.Friends of Thomas Adams, our PTAWe are always pleased if new parents wish toparticipate actively in the work of the Friendsof Thomas Adams. If you are interested,please contact Belinda Howells,on 01939 237000. Note: The Friends’ nextmeeting will take place at Lowe Hill on 16September at 6.00pm. All welcome!

Head Boy/Head GirlWe wish every success to our new HeadBoy and Head Girl and Deputy Head Boyand Deputy Head Girl: Elly McGrath (HeadGirl), Nico Pickard (Head Boy), Frew Nicol-Schwarz (Deputy Head Boy), HannahMorgan (Deputy Head Girl).Miscellaneous Students in Years 7-11 are not allowedto leave the School site at lunchtimeunless they actually go home and wehave a parent’s note confirming this.Students are never allowed to hangaround Wem at lunchtime. In response to parents’ queries may Istress that we are legally obliged only toaccept the surname of a child which ison the birth certificate or one that hasbeen changed by Court Order. We arenot allowed to accept name changes thatdo not have legal ratification or, at thevery least, the written backing of bothnatural parents. Please liaise with Mrs Stevenson overany medical issues affecting your childthat may impinge on school/college. During the course of the year, picturesof some students may be used for avariety of purposes (for example, on ourwebsite, in newspaper articles, in videosfor training staff or as part of displays ofstudents’ work). Some of these imageswill be available to the general publictogether with the student’s name. If youdo not wish your child’s image to beused in this way, please would you letus know. You will note that school eventscontinue to start at 7.15pm (this is toavoid the confusion over whether it is7.00 or 7.30pm). The exceptions are theParents Consultation Events that arefrom 4.30 – 7.30pm. We are always grateful for offers ofvoluntary assistance by parents, eg inhelping out with support work for staffor students. Please contact Mrs BelindaHowells without obligation if you wouldlike to find out more.BusesIf you have any queries aboutbuses then please phoneMr Peter Neale, our BusinessManager. Either he orMrs Corrine Brown will behappy to deal with your query.Please note that we work very closely with theLocal Authority and the bus companies toensure that things run smoothly. However, wehave made it clear to students that if theymisbehave on the bus, they will lose their rightto travel on it. It will then be for parents tomake alternative transport arrangements.Note too that as safe travel on our coaches isthe greatest concern, we insist that allstudents should wear their seatbelts. Indeed,the wearing of seatbelts is a legal requirement.Duke of Edinburgh’s Award 2014Bronze AwardYear 10 pupils will have the opportunity tocomplete the Bronze level of the awardscheme in 2014. The scheme will belaunched in October; training sessions willtake place on an allocated day after school,every other week. The practice expedition willtake place in May and qualifying route inJuly.Gold AwardThe opportunity will also be given to Year 12and 13 students to participate in the Schemeat Gold level.For those students interested, please see MrGilbert in the Science department.Use of personal equipment in schoolMany students now have a range of usefuland valuable equipment (such as phones oripods). While we appreciate that these can beof benefit (although they must be switched offand out of sight during the day at all times),we would like to remind you that the safetyand security of these is entirely theresponsibility of the student and that theschool cannot accept any liability for loss ordamage to such items. We would suggestthat, where appropriate, separate insuranceis taken out to cover valuable items broughtto school. If this is not possible, then wewould advise students not to bring them intoschool. If you have a query, please ask totalk to one of our Pastoral Team.

Student InvolvementThere were so many trips and activitiesat the end of the summer term andindeed, during the summer holidays itwould be a shame not to mentionthem.Thanks go to all the staff and studentsinvolved: Year 7 trip to Arthog Year 12/13 trip to Barcelona Year 12/13 trip to Poland Music tour to Italy Art Residential Year 8 Trip to Techniquest Taiko Drumming Festival in Exeter Bronze & Gold D of E Expeditions Year 6 into Year 7 Summer Schoolfor two weeks involving visits to theIce Cream Farm and Cadbury WorldCongratulationsTo the following students who won prizes in ourprize draw for students who have excellentrecords over the last year:Year 8 – Callum Welch – Xbox 360Year 10 – Hannah Morgan – Ipod NanoYear 10 – Charley Berry – Ipad MiniYear 10 – Charlee Minta, Jonathan Davies, AdamNorthwood, Ciara O’Flaherty - £15 ITunesvoucherLily Ashley was presented with atrophy for gaining the mostHouse Points for the whole year.Also the following students gained a £10 voucherfor achieving over 500 House Points:Year 7 – Lily Ashley, Antoinette Greenwood,Harriet Camber, Georgia Whyte, SophieCartwright, Caitlyn Bowers, Emily White andBradley Dove; Year 8 – Olivia-Anna BodenMassive CongratulationsGo to Elizabeth Heath (Year 9) and Bradley Dove (Year 8) who aftermuch blood and sweat gained their Black Belts in Karate from theLee Matthews British Military Martial Arts. This included a fullweekend of sparring, fitness tests and a 3 mile run across 10 hillscarrying a log weight!! So well deserved we feel!Vivo Miles have arrived! One of the most exciting aspectsof the new school year is the introduction of our newHouse Vivo Rewards system.Students gain automatic Vivos for good attendance andadditional ones for excellent work/behaviour, for excellenteffort and progress and for extra curricular activities. House Vivos replace House points andare the new school currency to celebrate achievement.Students can then purchase real rewards from the online shop giving them the opportunityto save up for something of their choice.Soon you will be able to track your child’s Vivo progress, sign up to receivenotifications of individual Vivos earned and even offer rewards of your ownat home! More details to follow, watch this space!Shawbury United Football ClubHome ground – Wem Sports and Social Club, Bowensfield, WemFree season tickets are available for Under 16s (Year 7-Year 11) for the 2013/14 season.Contact the club for further information and to claim your free season ticket.Web: www.shawburyunitedfootballclub.co.ukEmail: shawbury.united@aol.co.ukOr come along to any home fixture and speak to a committee member about your free seasonticket.

OUR SCHOOL UNIFORM demonstrates students' pride in attending The Thomas Adams School enables all students to look smart at a reasonable cost promotes our good name in the local community and further afield helps prepare students for the world outside of Adams where particular codes ofdress are often obligatory (despite not always being stipulated)The governors and staff request your assistance in helping us to achieveour goal of a consistent, smart school uniform worn by all students.Thomas Adams branded school polo shirts and sweatshirts as well as PE kit should be purchased fromour supplier School Shop Direct (Nuisance Clothing). The recommended school skirt and trousers arealso available for purchase in the same way. Purchases can be made in person at their store: SchoolShop Direct (Nuisance Clothing), Unit 13, Sundorne Trade Park, Featherbed Lane, Shrewsbury, SY1 4NS,tel 01743 440449, opening times: Monday to Saturday 10am to 5pm. Alternatively you can order on lineat www.schoolshopdirect.co.ukYears 7 – 11All Students• Navy blue Thomas Adams School polo shirt• Navy blue Thomas Adams School sweatshirt• Black or dark brown shoes with a low heel (no canvas or trainer style, no motifs)• Plain coloured outer coat (no hoodies or cardigans)(Year 11 choose their own colour sweatshirt each year)Girls• School- Shop Direct Thomas Adams straight plain black skirt which should sit JUSTABOVE THE KNEE or• Smart plain black standard school trousers – appropriate for office wear (no jeans or tightfitting trousers, no canvas or stretchy material, no embellishments)or• Smart navy or black City shorts (knee length)• Plain socks or tights (no leggings)Boys• Charcoal grey or black standard school trousers (no large pockets)• Plain socksOutdoor winter scarves are acceptable during the cold weather, but must be removed onentering the building. No fashion scarves please.‘Fashion’ belts are inappropriate for school.JewelleryStudents are not allowed to wear any jewellery which is a risk to health and safety, e.g. eyebrow ringsand bars, nose studs and piercings, large dangly earrings, heavy rings etc. Any bangles/necklacesshould be out of sight. From June 2013, no silicone tunnels, stretchers or plug style earrings arepermitted.Hair StylesIt is expected that all students will wear their hair appropriately to reflect a serious learningenvironment. “Exaggerated” hairstyles and colour are not acceptable.TattoosThese are not allowed.In your own interest, it is vital that each item of school uniform is clearly marked with the owner’s name.PLEASE REMEMBER THAT CHOOSING THOMAS ADAMS SCHOOL IMPLIES THE WILLINGNESSTO CONFORM TO THE SCHOOL UNIFORM POLICY AT ALL TIMES, A POLICY FULLY ENDORSEDBY THE SCHOOL GOVERNORS AND STAFF.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION KITThe Physical Education Department at Thomas Adams School is striving to make sportaccessible to all its students. Providing an environment conducive to learning is a key to thisideal. The students’ PE Kit plays a fundamental role in achieving this aim. With this in mind,the PE Department has the following expectations for PE Kit during curriculum lessons andextra-curricular opportunities.The PE Department expects students to bring PE kit to every lesson. In the case of an injury orillness, a note or communication via your child/the school reception should be provided.Students are then expected to change into their PE kits (unless they are physically unable toor there are exceptional circumstances) and perform roles such as officiating, teachingassisting and coaching, but are not required to participate physically.This enables all students to feel part of the learning process, fulfil their legal requirement ofPhysical Education provision and allow teachers to assess their ability to perform in differentroles allowing accurate attainment levels to be recorded.This expectation will ensure that students of all abilities and needs are challenged andfeel that they participating in every PE lesson.Your support and co-operation in this matter would be greatly appreciated to ensure a positiveand enjoyable sporting experience is had by all.STANDARD KIT FOR ALL STUDENTSTraining shoes (non-marking soles)Football Boots (Only needed for part of the year's activities. PE staff will advise)Navy blue tracksuit bottoms may be worn during cold weather at the discretion of the memberof staff.Students are required to wear shin guards for their own safety during team contact games egfootball.STANDARD PE KIT FOR GIRLS:• Blue sweatshirt (Adams Wem emblem) OR• Navy blue fleece (Adams Wem emblem)• Sky blue polo shirt (Adams Wem emblem)• Navy shorts (Adams Wem emblem)• White socks• Blue tracksuit bottom (Adams Wem emblem) [optional]STANDARD PE KIT FOR BOYS:• Reversible blue rugby jersey• White polo shirt (Adams Wem emblem)• White shorts (Adams Wem emblem)• Blue tracksuit bottom (Adams Wem emblem) [optional]• Blue football socks with white hoops• White sport socksAll PE Kit can be purchased from School Shop Direct (Nuisance Clothing) Unit 13, SundorneTrade Park, Featherbed Lane, Shrewsbury, SY1 4NS, 01743 440449, open: Monday toSaturday 10am – 5pm. Alternatively you can order on line at www.schoolshopdirect.co.uk.Swimming caps MUST be purchased for students with long hair and can be bought from WemSwimming Baths.In certain instances the School can provide confidential assistance with the purchase ofSchool uniform and PE kit where a family faces financial problems; please contact theHeadteacher.

Reporting to ParentsIn response to feedback from parents, students and staff, we will retain the opportunity thisyear for a more personalised comment from each subject tutor while optimising the numberof data columns on the report, to enhance the quality of the information sent home.The dates that reports are received have also been adjusted so that they work in conjunctionwith parents’ evenings. Parents’ evenings and report dates can be seen in the followingtable:Year Autumn Term Spring Term Summer Term7 Report w/b 20 December Report w/b: 4 JuneParents Eve: 3 July8 Parents Eve: 18 November Report w/b: 14 February Report w/b: 18 June9 Parents Eve: 4 December Report w/b: 14 March Report w/b: 2 July10 Report TP1 w/b: 8 Nov Report TP2 w/b: 12 FebParents Eve: 8 JanuaryReport TP3 w/b: 9 AprilReport w/c 10 July11 Parents Eve: 9 DecReport TP2 w/b: 28 Feb Report TP3 w/b: 9 AprilReport TP1 w/b: 8 Nov12 Parents Eve: 12 November Report w/b: 28 April13 Parents Eve: 24 September Report w/b: 10 MarchSchool PremisesCould we please ask that you do not bring your car on to the premises either to drop yourchild at school in the morning or pick them up in the afternoon. There is a one way systemin operation at busy times of the day.We would be grateful if you drop your child off at a safe distance from the school gate as carparking is limited and the buses require access straight through from Pyms Road out on toLowe Hill Road. Thank you.May I remind you of the timings of the School day:Morning registration 8.50amLunch12.25 – 1.15pmEnd of school3.20pmWith all best wishesAttached for your information:1. Events for the forthcoming half-term2. Key Dates3. School Holidays4. Holidays in Term time form5. School Attendance6. Clarification about basic School Rules7. E-mail/Mobile phone contact sheet8. Data Protection

Upcoming Parents’ Evenings : An Overview for this Half TermYear 10 Parents’ Information Evening: Thursday 12 September, 7.15 – 8.15pm,Drama Studio, Lowe HillThis meeting gives us the opportunity to offer advice and answer questions with regard tothe demands and expectations of GCSE linear exams over the next two years. Year 12 Parents’ ‘Settling In’ Information Evening: Tuesday 17 September, 7.15 –8.15pm, Stanier Hall, Noble StreetThis meeting enables us to go through college routines and the expectations surroundingAS study while answering any queries that may have arisen during this first part of theterm.Information Evening for Year 6 Parents: Wednesday 18 September, 7.15 – 8.15pm,the Dining Hall, Lowe HillAn opportunity for parents with a son/daughter currently in Year 6 to learn more aboutThomas Adams and the admissions procedure for entry in September 2013. All welcome!Year 13 Consultation Evening: Tuesday 24 September, 4.30 – 7.30pm, at NobleStreetOur Consultation Evening will give parents of students in Year 13 the opportunity to talkto their son’s/daughter’s subject tutors about their exam results, progress and the yearahead.Year 7 ‘Settling In’ Evening: Thursday 3 October, Lowe HillOur ‘Settling In’ Evening will enable you to meet with your son’s/daughter’s form tutorand feedback any queries if you wish. A letter giving further details will follow.Open Day and Open Evening for the Lower School: Tuesday 8 OctoberThe opportunity to see the School in action during the day – tours will take place at10.30am and 1.30pm. In the evening, the School will be open from 7.15 – 9.00pm to giveyou the opportunity to talk to staff more informally and see student displays. All welcome!Year 11 ‘What’s Next?’ Information Evening: Tuesday 15 October, 7.15 – 8.15pm,Drama Studio, Lowe HillOur ‘What’s Next?’ evening gives parents the opportunity to learn more about thosepathways which exist for students after Year 11. We also give comprehensive insight intocollege life as well as an overview of those courses available at Adams College.Year 11 Parents – Open Evening for Adams College: Thursday 24 October, from7.15pm. Meet in the Stanier Hall, Noble StreetOur Adams College Open Evening will give you the opportunity to talk through withsubject tutors and sixth-form students about post-16 options at the College. The Eveningstarts in the Stanier Hall and you are then given the opportunity to discover the College atyour leisure. All welcome!

Events for the forthcoming half-term12 September 7.15pm Year 10 parents – demands of linear examsw/c 16 SeptemberYear 13 Mentoring16 September 6.00pm Friends of Thomas Adams meeting17 September All day Year 11 Geography controlled assessment tripto the river17 September 7.15pm Year 12 Parents’ Information eveningw/c 23 SeptemberYear 7 Mentoring24 September All day Year 11 Geography controlled assessment tripto the river (reserve date)24 September 4.30pm Year 13 Consultation Evening26 September 3.45pm U12 Boys’ 5-a-side & U16 Girls’ 8-a-sideFootball27 September All day Year 12/13 London trip to V&A and House ofCommons27 September Morning McMillan Coffee Morning28 September All day Year 9 London trip to V&A and House ofCommons1 October U16 Netball County Championships3 October 7.15pm Year 7 Tutors meet Parentsw/c 7 OctoberYear 11 Mentoring8 October All Day Open Day/Evening – tours at 10.30am and1.30pm, Evening 7.15pm9 October All Day Year 12/13 (approx 20) 6 th Form Conference –National Theatre 6.30am – 8.30pm10 October 6.30pm Theatre Severn Trip13-18 October French Exchange Students in School14-18 October Year 11 French Speaking Exams15 October Morning Year 8 first HPV injection15 October 7.15pm What’s Next Evening for Parents16 October 1.30pm U13 & U15 Netball at Grove School21-23 October Year 11 German Speaking Exam24 October Morning Year 11 Science Controlled Assessment24 October All Day Sixth Form Careers in Sports Fair at Universityof Worcester24 October 7.15pm College Open EveningPD DAY – Friday 25 October - NO STUDENTS IN SCHOOLHalf Term Monday 28 October – Friday 1 November inclusiveStudents return on Monday 4 NovemberNote: Adams College Open Evening: starting 7.15pm in the Stanier Hall onThursday 24 October

TERMS AND HOLIDAY DATES FOR STUDENTSAUTUMN TERM 2013Professional Development Day Monday 2 nd SeptemberTermTuesdayFriday3 rd24 thSeptemberOctoberProfessional Development Day Friday 25 th OctoberHalf TermMondayFriday28 th1 stOctoberNovemberTermMondayFriday4 th20 thNovemberDecemberChristmas Holiday: Monday 23 rd December 2013 – Friday 3 rd January 2014SPRING TERM 2014Professional Development Day Monday 6 th JanuaryTermTuesdayFriday7 th14 thJanuaryFebruaryHalf Term HolidayMondayFriday17 th21 stFebruaryFebruaryTermMondayThursday24 th10 thFebruaryAprilProfessional Development Day Friday 11 th AprilEaster Holiday : Monday 14 th April – Friday 25 th AprilSUMMER TERM 2014TermMondayFriday28 th23 rdAprilMayMay Day Monday 5 th MayHalf TermMondayFriday26 th30 thMayMayTermMondayFriday2 nd18 thJuneJuly

THOMAS ADAMS SCHOOL,WEMApplication for Pupil Leave of Absence From School for Holiday in ExceptionalCircumstancesFull name of child(ren)__________________________________________________________________________________________Form: _____________Address:____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Reason for application and dates ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Signature of parent(s)/carer(s) _________________________________________ Date:_________Office use only ………….. attach attendance certificateAuthorisedUnauthorisedComments _______________________________________________________________________Signed ………………………………………………… Date: …………………………………………….The headteacher will consider the following points before authorising leave.1. The child's previous attendance history.2. The age of the child(ren).3. The child's stage of education.4. The time of year (SATS or exams).5. The nature of the trip (an exceptional experience)………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..Return to parentsPermission for holiday in term time responseAuthorised UnauthorisedName of pupil(s) ____________________________________________________________________Comments _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Signed …………………………… Position:………………………………….. Date …………..

School AttendanceWe believe at Thomas Adams School that all of our pupils should enjoy equal access to a fullrange of educational and social opportunities during their compulsory years of schooling.To be successful we must enlist your support as partners in your child’s educationaldevelopment by ensuring his/her regular attendance at school at the appropriate timesthroughout the year.There may well be occasions when full attendance may not be possible. Bearing in mind thatonly the school can authorise absence, we would appreciate your support by asking you tocontact the school to explain any absence by your child as soon as possible - preferablyduring the first day of absence. Contact may be via a note, telephone call or by personalcontact. For a single day absence a note on the first day of your child’s return to school isalso acceptable.As of 1 September 2013 there has been a change in the School Attendance Regulations.Where there used to be the option for headteachers to grant leave of absence for thepurpose of a family holiday during the term time in ‘special circumstances’ of up to tendays in a year, this has been removed.Headteachers are now only allowed to authorise any leave of absence when anapplication has been made in advance and it is felt to be for an exceptionalcircumstance; the annual family holiday would not be deemed an exceptionalcircumstance.We are very proud of our attendance record [normally 94%+] and, with your support, we arelooking to make it as good as possible next year. In the meantime if there are any queries orconcerns in relation to attendance procedures please do not hesitate to contact the school.These are the national guidelines which schools are required to observe concerningauthorised and unauthorised absences and how these are to be recorded on our computerprogramme.The following should be seen as AUTHORISED absence :1. illness2. medical or dental appointments [please avoid school time if possible]3. family bereavements*4. work experience5. exclusion*6. study leave*7. special occasions e.g. wedding, graduation*8. religious observance*9. attendance at interviews*10. off site activities e.g. educational visits, approved sporting activities, special tuitionNB *should be approved by the school prior to the event.The following should be seen as UNAUTHORISED absence :1. family holiday2. parentally condoned unjustified absence3. failure by parents to provide a valid reason or no explanation after 12 school days4. late after register closed - without adequate explanation5. minding the house/looking after brothers/sisters without permission from school i.e.granted leave of absence6. shopping during school hours7. attendance at agricultural shows, unless as a member of an organised group e.g.school party, scouts, guides and in these circumstances the absence should be agreedby the school prior to the eventThe above list will cover most instances of absence, but there may be other reasons forabsence. If you have any doubt about whether an absence will be recorded as unauthorised[and therefore officially shown as such on your child’s report] please do not hesitate to contactthe school for advice.

CLARIFICATION ABOUT BASIC SCHOOL RULESSchool Uniform• Shoes must be worn and not trainers. Students must also wear shoes to and from Schooland not change into trainers for these journeys. At present students can wear trainers atlunchtime only but this privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused.• Trousers must be plain dark navy/black and not pinstriped or sports trousers.• No caps/hats are to be worn inside School and no outside coats in lessons.Students must have a parental note if they are not in full uniform, and a medical note isneeded if shoes are not worn.Chewing Gum is not allowed in School. Those chewing gum in lessons will be asked to put itin the bin. Any repetition or arguing will mean a sanction.Mobile ‘Phones are allowed in School but must be out of sight at all times during the schoolday. It is a serious offence to make or receive a text/call during the course of the school day.Food and Drink are only allowed to be consumed in the dining hall and not around school.The only exception is that students are permitted to take water in bottles into lessons (but noother type of drink).Lesson Equipment Sanctions will be imposed on students who regularly do not bring basicequipment to lessons (pen, pencil, ruler, calculator and student planner).Students will face sanctions for :-lateness to lessons/registrationfailure to do homework on timebad language used around schoolStudents are obviously expected to behave and work in lessons and show courtesy andconsideration to others.Sanctions that could be imposed in relation to any of the above include :detentions of various sortsremoval from lessonsreference to senior staffstudent put on reportletter to parentscommunity serviceloss of privilegesetting of work related extra tasksThe most serious offences may well result in internal or external exclusion and theseinclude:-defiance of staffrudeness to staffdisruption of lessonsbullyingvandalismracismtheftsmoking or use of alcohol or drugs

Data Protection ActBasic information about students is held on computer to assist with theefficient organisation of the school and to meet the individual’s educationalneeds. Security measures are taken to ensure that the information is keptconfidential and is only available to those authorised.The school is registered with the Data Protection Register and follows the rulesset by the Data Protection Act.We record only the following information on computer:Student’s name, address, telephone number, date of birthParents’ names, addresses, telephone numbersEmergency contact telephone numbersPrevious schoolDoctor – name and addressMedical information supplied by parentsLunch and travel to and from school arrangementsThis is available for inspection by prior arrangement (as are also all noncomputerisedstudents’ records).We are registered to disclose personal information to:Family, Relatives, Guardians, TrusteesPast, Current and Prospective EmployersDoctors, Dentists, other Health AdvisersDepartment for Education and SkillsLocal Authority and Social ServicesIt is the policy of the Governors that such information is confidential and that,even where a need to disclose information has been registered, it will only bedivulged in exceptional circumstances and will be kept to the minimumnecessary to achieve the purpose. This policy is, of course, subject to any lawwhich imposes a duty of disclosure on the Governors.Connexions (Careers Service) has also asked us to point out that basic detailswill be held by them on computer in order to help them to provide a betterservice for students. If you require any more details about this, please contactthe local Connexions office.