Parent Handbook Stafford Grammar School

STAFFORD GRAMMAR
SCHOOL
Senior School
Parent
Handbook
and Information for
New Starters
The Prep School The Senior School The Sixth Form
Ages 4-11 Ages 11-16 Ages 16-18

PARENT HANBOOK
Welcome to Stafford Grammar School ...... 4
Keeping Up-to-Date ................................... 5
Mission Statement ..................................... 5
Admissions ................................................. 6
Equal Opportunities ................................... 6
Fees and Finance ........................................ 7
After School Care ....................................... 8
Attendance at School ............................... 10
Lunch Time ............................................... 10
School Staff and Governors ..................... 11
The School Rules ...................................... 11
Discipline .................................................. 12
School Uniform and PE Kit ....................... 13
Curriculum ................................................ 14
Homework ................................................ 15
Internal Examinations .............................. 16
Public Examinations ................................. 17
Physical Education ................................... 17
Sports Competitions ................................ 18
External Matches ..................................... 18
Music in School ........................................ 19
Individual Music Tuition ........................... 20
Music Ensembles ...................................... 21
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Parent Handbook
Drama in School ....................................... 22
LAMDA Speech and Acting Tuition .......... 23
Duke of Edinburgh’s Award ..................... 24
Religion in School ..................................... 25
Health Education ...................................... 25
Special Educational Needs ....................... 26
Able, Gifted and Talented ........................ 26
Careers ..................................................... 27
Pastoral Care ............................................ 28
Anti-Bullying Policy .................................. 28
The House System .................................... 29
Parent Contact ......................................... 30
Complaints Procedure.............................. 31
Prefects and Sixth Form Responsibilities . 31
Reports, Grades and Pupil Assessment ... 32
First Aid .................................................... 32
Safety and Fire Prevention ....................... 33
Valuables .................................................. 33
Lost Property ............................................ 34
School Trips .............................................. 34
Transport Arrangements .......................... 35
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Parent Handbook
Welcome to Stafford Grammar School
Welcome to Stafford Grammar School and what we hope will be a long and happy
association with us. Choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions that
parents make. Stafford Grammar School is an academic school that feels like a family and
we aim to provide an exceptional education for your son or daughter.
Education should be regarded as a partnership between home and school. We are
committed to this ideal and seek to foster it in every way.
This handbook is to facilitate the process by helping you understand how the school works
as an organisation and the part which everyone has to play in it.
The realisation of individual academic potential is at the heart of our endeavours, but, at the
same time, we are concerned that all pupils are known as individuals and are happy, secure,
confident and motivated.
Our school is a community which values every member and to which each and every
member has a responsibility. Picking up problems at an early stage is always our aim so that
appropriate action can be taken and support provided.
Stafford Grammar School is about so much more than what happens in lessons. We are a
thriving community, we are incredibly proud of our wonderful pupils and we want you to be
as involved as possible.
You will be able to find out more from our website and our key policies can be found here:
http://www.staffordgrammar.co.uk/our-school/school-policies
You will be able to access the following policies:
Admissions
Anti-bullying
Complaints procedure
Discipline
Health and Safety (including first aid)
Promoting Good Behaviour
School curriculum
School Journeys and Visits
Safeguarding
Special Educational Needs
We will also provide hard copies of these policies, on request, should you require them.
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Parent Handbook
Keeping Up-to-Date
You can follow @StaffordGrammar on Twitter and Facebook to receive regular updates and
see what pupils are doing throughout the week.
https://www.facebook.com/StaffordGrammar/
An up-to-date list of staff and governors is always available on the personnel section of the
school website.
Mission Statement
We exist to provide a grammar school community of happy, confident and caring individuals
who achieve their full potential.
We provide:
Small classes
A disciplined, well-ordered environment
A range of options at GCSE, AS and A-level
We have:
A warm and friendly atmosphere
Time for every child
Dedicated staff
We will:
Recognise individual success
Develop self-confidence through involvement
Keep parents informed of their child’s progress
By these means we will continue to achieve academic and personal success.
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Parent Handbook
Admissions
Admission to the school is by entrance examination (including papers in Verbal Reasoning,
English and Mathematics) and interview. Full details of the admissions process are
contained within the school’s Admissions Policy found here:
http://www.staffordgrammar.co.uk/our-school/school-policies
If your child has a special educational need, statement or EHC plan, information must be
included on the admission form so that this can be taken into account during the admissions
process. Annual reviews of pupils with statements or EHC plans will take place via the
appropriate liaison involving the Local Education Authority.
A pupil who is joining Year 7, 8 or 9 will be invited into the school for a day during the
summer term. They will have a change to meet other new pupils, talk to their form tutor
and experience some lessons. Parents will also be given the opportunity to meet with form
tutors and to discuss any concerns. At the beginning of the new term in September, pupils
should bring with them a dictionary (e.g. Oxford, Chambers or Collins) a Pocket French
Dictionary (ISBN 0-00-472438-0) and a Pocket German Dictionary (ISBN 0-00-472437-2). All
textbooks and exercise books are provided by the school.
Equal Opportunities
The school is committed to developing the individual abilities of each pupil, regardless of
race, gender or other protected characteristics.
Entrance is by examination and interview and all candidates will be treated fairly.
All pupils will have, as far as possible, equal access to all areas of the curriculum, impartial
careers guidance, extra-curricular activities and out-of-school activities, including work
experience.
Teachers will endeavour to ensure that pupils get equal attention and equal access to
equipment and resources.
The school’s disciplinary procedures will apply equally to all pupils, as will the required
standards of behaviour, appearance and dress code. Verbal or physical abuse will not be
tolerated.
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Parent Handbook
Fees and Finance
The school fees, which are payable termly in advance, are reviewed in October each year
and any changes are notified to parents prior to the start of the spring term. Sibling
discounts are available.
A full term’s notice of withdrawal of any pupil is required in writing, otherwise a further
term’s fees must be paid (please see Terms and Conditions).
Further information regarding scholarships, sibling discounts and bursaries can be found in
our ‘Helping with Fees’ brochure:
http://www.staffordgrammar.co.uk/admissions
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Parent Handbook
Timing of the School Day
All pupils must be on site by 8.45 a.m. and in their registration rooms by 8.50 a.m. Any pupil
arriving late must sign in at the main school office.
Registration 8.50
Assembly 9.00
Period 1 9.20
Break 10.35 – 10.50
Period 2 10.50
Lunch 12.05 – 13.05
Period 3 (PM reg.) 13.05
Afternoon break 14.25 – 14.35
Period 4 14.35
End of school day 15.50
After School Care
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Parent Handbook
Stafford Grammar School cannot accept responsibility for unsupervised pupils or carry out
any duty of care on site when pupils are not in a supervised activity. The following
regulations apply to all pupils from Year 7 to Year 11:
1. By 4.15 p.m. no pupil may remain on site if not actively engaged in, or supporting, a
supervised activity.
2. Pupils must go to the library no later than 4.15 p.m. if they wish to remain on site and are
not engaged in any other supervised activity.
3. Where to find your child:
4.15 p.m. – 5.45 p.m. School Library
5.45 p.m. – 6.00 p.m. School Reception
6.00 p.m. onwards Reception or Pavilion in exceptional circumstances
4. After school supervision is free for both Stafford Preparatory School and Stafford
Grammar School students until 5.45 p.m., after which there will be a mandatory charge of
£10 per 15 minutes or part thereof, unless the school has been contacted regarding any
exceptional delay before 5.30 p.m. In this case the free supervision will continue until 6.00
p.m. The mandatory charge will apply to all pupils from 6.00 p.m.
5. The Headmaster will review individual pupil welfare if pupils are not collected by 6.00
p.m. This review may lead to pupils being excluded from after school care. They will then be
required to leave the school site no later than 4.15 p.m.
We must reiterate to all parents that Stafford Grammar School accepts no responsibility for
the welfare or safety of pupils after 4.15 p.m. if they are not engaged in a supervised
activity. Parents must accept full responsibility for their children’s welfare and safety when
they are required to leave the school site in-line with the above regulations.
Finally, we would like to add that we regret having to impose what may appear harsh
regulations but there are sound legal and child welfare reasons for acting on professional
advice.
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Parent Handbook
Attendance at School
Regulations for attendance at school are set by the government. And in general terms this
means that all pupils are expected to be in school during the normal school day throughout
the term.
Exceptions:
Statutory absence – is allowed for family funerals or days of religious observance. In these
cases prior notice should be given to the Form Tutor.
Absence through sickness – a telephone call or an e-mail to the school to explain the
absence is expected on the first day of absence, followed by a parental note to the Form
Tutor on return of the pupil if they do not return the following day.
Temporary absence for part of a day – is allowed for medical appointments. A parental Note
to the Form Tutor is expected in advance. Pupils must sign in and out at the main office.
School activities – such as work experience or departmental trips may result in pupils being
absent for part or all of a day. You will be informed of this in advance by the teachers
involved and your signature on a letter of approval will be needed.
Other absence – may very occasionally be granted for specific events deemed to be
generally educational or very important to the future of the pupil. In such cases a request
from the parent should be presented to the Form Tutor for approval by the Headmaster.
Absence for holidays – is strongly discouraged. Any request for such absence should be
addressed to the Headmaster in advance and delivered via the Form Tutor. No more than
two weeks of such absence in any school year are authorised and even significantly shorter
term time absences could have adverse academic consequences.
Lunch Time
The school cafeteria is open at morning break and lunch time. A wide range of excellent
food is available, including sandwiches, snacks and full hot meals prepared by our own
catering time.
Those who bring their own packed lunch may eat it in L1. Additionally, the Sixth Form can
eat in their own Common Room.
Pupils should not eat in other part of the school.
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Parent Handbook
School Staff and Governors
A full and up-to-date list of all school staff and governors can be found on the school
website here:
http://www.staffordgrammar.co.uk/our-school/personnel-list
The School Rules
The school does not publish an exhaustive list of rules believing that the key to membership
of the school community is respect for other people and their property. All pupils are
reminded that a smart appearance, courtesy, and common sense are expected from them
at all times, whether at school or elsewhere, and that the reputation of the school depends
upon them. They are also responsible for the good order and tidiness of the school grounds
and premises and for the protection of its property. The conventions, without which no
community can function, are taught early on as part of the tutorial programme.
The following items are banned, should not be brought into school at any time and can be
searched for as per the ‘Searching, Screening and Confiscation Policy’: knives or weapons,
alcohol, illegal drugs, stolen items, tobacco, cigarettes, cigarette papers, e-cigarettes, vaping
devices and similar items, explosives including fireworks, and pornographic images. The
school has the right to search for, confiscate and ban any item that it suspects has been
used, or could be used, to cause personal injury or damage to property of any person or the
school.
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Parent Handbook
It is absolutely prohibited for any pupil to smoke tobacco, drink alcohol, take drugs or abuse
solvents in school, on the journey to and from school, during breaks or whilst on any visit,
trip or other activity for which the school is responsible.
The Sixth Form students have various privileges and considerable responsibility for the
successful running of the school and the House system. Sixth Formers may leave school at
lunchtime, providing they have parental permission at the start of the year. They may not,
however, leave the school premises during lessons except with express permission and for a
specific purpose. Parents are asked to help with letters of authority. Cars may be brought to
school only if the correct forms have been completed and at the discretion of the
Headmaster. Students must always sign in and out in the Sixth Form Centre or the main
office.
Pupils below the Sixth Form may not leave the premises during the school day without a
written request from home which has been approved by their Form Tutor. They must sign in
and out, even if they are being collected by a parent.
It is expressly forbidden for any Stafford Grammar School pupil from Year 7 to Upper Sixth
Form inclusive to take photographs or video, digital or otherwise, within the school without
the express permission of a member of staff. This applies to cameras, camera phones and
webcams.
The school will treat any breaches of this rule as a serious invasion of the right to privacy
and school sanctions will be imposed.
At all times the interpretation of the rules and expectations of the school is in the hands of
the Headmaster.
Discipline
All pupils are expected to maintain very high standards of behaviour at all times.
Full details of discipline and sanctions can be found in the school’s Discipline Policy:
http://www.staffordgrammar.co.uk/our-school/school-policies
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Parent Handbook
School Uniform and PE Kit
A full and up-to-date list of school uniform and PE kit is available from the Parents’ page of
the school website.
Bags
Pupils have the choice of a plain black bag or rucksack for their books and other school
equipment. A locker is available for each pupil close to or in his/her Form room. Bags should
be stored in bag racks when possible. They may be left neatly in registration rooms. Bags left
unnecessarily around school will be confiscated and the owners punished.
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Parent Handbook
Curriculum
Years 7 – 9
In the first three years all pupils will study:
English
Mathematics
Science
French
German
Drama
PE
Geography
History
Art and Design
Computing
Design and Technology
Music
RE
PSHE
The National Curriculum Programme of Study is broadly followed, but the school does not
commit itself to the full testing and assessment arrangements.
Currently, there is setting in Mathematics from Year 8 and Science in Year 9. All other
subjects are taught in parallel groups.
In Year 9, Chemistry, Physics and Biology are taught as separate subjects in sets.
GCSE
Normally, 9 or 10 subjects are studied. All pupils study English Language; English Literature;
Mathematics; French or German; History, Geography, RE or Business Studies. In Science the
three GCSE subjects are taught by subject specialists and the course leads to a separate
science GCSE in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Pupils select two further options from a
wide range.
In addition to their examination subjects, all pupils follow courses in Physical Education and
in Life Skills, including Health and Careers Education.
Sixth Form
In the Sixth Form most students study four AS levels in the Lower Sixth, plus a double form
period and Physical Education. Most Upper Sixth students continue three courses to the full
A-level.
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Parent Handbook
Homework
All pupils are set homework.
Year 7
Year 8
Year 9
Years 10 and 11
Sixth Form
15 x 30 minute sessions per week
15 x 30 minute sessions per week
15 x 30 minute sessions per week
15 x 40 minute sessions per week
A minimum of five hours per subject per week
A homework diary is provided for each pupil and all homework should be recorded in this.
Parents are asked to check this record in the homework diary and to sign it on a weekly
basis to indicate that the work has been completed. Tutors should be contacted if
homework does not seem to have been set.
If homework has not been completed within a reasonable time based on the outline above,
parents should initial the exercise book and contact the tutor.
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Parent Handbook
Internal Examinations
It is the school’s policy that pupils should sit formal examinations at least once a year to
monitor their progress and, for the senior pupils, to gain valuable experience for their GCSE
and A-levels.
Years 7, 8 and 9 will be continually assessed from the first term. There will be at least one
test conditions exercise as part of this assessment in each subject.
In May, Years 7, 8, 9 and 10 have their internal examination session. For all these Year
groups, the examinations are formal and timetabled. Year 11, Lower Sixth and Upper Sixth
students have internal mock examinations in January and external examinations in May and
June.
When pupils are not sitting a subject paper it is expected that they revise in the designated
area – unless leave of absence has been granted (Year 11 and Sixth Form).
All pupils must observe the rules indicated on their individual examination timetable (e.g. no
borrowing of equipment, no bringing in of bags, mobile phones and no talking).
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Parent Handbook
They will be taken through these rules by the Examinations Officer and Form Tutor.
Public Examinations
Parents are reminded that the entry fees for public examinations are billed separately to the
normal school fees. A level entry costs depend on the nature of the assessment in both
Lower and Upper Sixth.
Physical Education
Physical Education makes an important contribution to the education and physical
development of all pupils. It provides the opportunity for pupils to acquire competence in a
wide range of physical skills and to experience the challenges of working individually, cooperatively
and competitively with others.
In order that all children should achieve success and develop their full potential, we provide
a broad, balanced physical education curriculum in line with the recommendations of the
national curriculum. The curriculum provides a variety of activities which take place in
different physical environments where children can work individually, in small groups or
team situations. Physical education is seen as a vehicle for personal development through
the enjoyment and success of all pupils.
Throughout their time at school, all pupils will participate in a number of team games
(football, rugby, basketball, hockey, netball, volleyball, cricket, rounders, softball), individual
games (badminton, tennis, table-tennis) gymnastics, trampolining, athletics, ball skills,
health-related fitness and outdoor pursuits. A number of these activities are mixed sex
activities in order to promote social development. Participation in the above activities
should ensure a balanced programme for every child and contribute towards the systematic
and balanced development of all pupils.
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Parent Handbook
Sports Competitions
The Inter-House polyathlon takes place during term time and Houses compete for the Inter-
House Polyathlon Cup.
Girls: Netball, Rounders, Athletics
Boys: Football, Cricket, Athletics
Mixed: Hockey, Badminton, Tennis, Cross-Country
Annual Sports Day
External Matches
Boys and girls play matches in all major sports against other schools, both independent and
maintained.
The boys play football, rugby and cricket in a variety of age group competitions.
The girls play netball, hockey, tennis and rounders at U12, U13, U14, U15, U16 and U18
levels.
The school competes in Stafford and District leagues and tournaments in netball, hockey,
badminton, tennis, rounders, football, rugby, swimming, cross country and athletics. Pupils
have the opportunity to attend District and County trials in most of these sports.
Most matches take place after school, with some Saturday morning fixtures. Parental
support is always welcome.
When selected to represent the school after school or at weekends we would expect this to
come before other commitments.
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Parent Handbook
Music in School
Music is an integral part of school life. Every pupil in Years 7 to 9 receives a weekly lesson
and their music studies cover a range of musical genres from Baroque through to
contemporary music encompassing performance, composition and analysing music. Music
can be taken as an option at both GCSE and A-level.
Students are able to access the more contemporary styles of music using specialist music
software packages such as Sibelius and opportunities are given to perform in lessons on a
variety of instruments.
Tuition is offered in a wide range of instruments from visiting teachers and we boast
excellent extra-curricular activities. With a Concert Band, Orchestra, School Choir, Recorder
Group, Percussion Group and numerous chamber ensembles, there are opportunities for
pupils with any musical interest to perform. Our ensembles perform regularly both in school
and in the local community. There are also opportunities for soloists to perform in our
concerts.
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Parent Handbook
Individual Music Tuition
Stafford Grammar School offers tuition in the following:
Recorder, Flute, Oboe, Bassoon, Clarinet, Saxophone, Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass,
Trumpet, Cornet, French Horn, Euphonium, Trombone, Tube, Classical Guitar, Electric
Guitar, Percussion, Drum Kit, Keyboard, Classical Voice, Musical Theatre, Piano and Theory
and other lessons upon request.
Lessons are timetables on a rotational basis for pupils in Years 7, 8 and 9. The Director of
Music will encourage the peripatetic teachers to arrange times which do not coincide with
important academic lessons for pupils in Year 10 and above.
Parents are asked to contact the Director of Music if they have any queries regarding
timetabling of music lessons.
Pupils may use their own instrument or hire one from school if one is available. Parents are
responsible for the safekeeping of any instrument on hire and should make their own
arrangements for all-in risks insurance. A valuation can be supplied on request. It is hoped
that after hiring for 1 year pupils will then buy their own instrument.
Notice of termination of tuition must be given in writing to the Director of Music not later
than the first day of the term at the end of which lessons are to finish.
The Director of Music is always happy to provide further information about music tuition
and the musical opportunities at Stafford Grammar School.
Instrumental Tuition fees are available at the end of the music tuition application form.
These fees are in line with the rate recommended by the Incorporated Society of Musicians
for individual music tuition in independent schools and represent excellent value for money.
Individual music teachers will bill parents directly at the start of each term for the lessons to
be taken and payment is due on/before the first lesson on term. We must emphasise that
the contract for peripatetic music instruction is between the parent and the peripatetic
music teacher and not with the school. Peripatetic music teachers reserve the right to make
late payment charges composed of simple interest calculated on a daily basis at 1.5% per
month from the first day of each term. To these charges will be added all administration and
legal costs in relation to any sums that are unpaid by the due date. Such charges will be
recoverable by legal action if necessary.
All pupils who receive music tuition are expected to take an active part in the musical life of
the school. Any pupil receiving music tuition at school has to regularly attend at least one of
the many music groups that the school has to offer. Please note that this is a requirement as
part of the contract between parent and peripatetic teacher.
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Parent Handbook
The application form for individual music tuition can be found on the school website
under ‘Admissions’ and ‘Parent Information’:
http://www.staffordgrammar.co.uk/admissions/parents
Please contact the Music Department for any further information regarding individual
music tuition: music@staffordgrammar.co.uk
Music Ensembles
Brass Group
Choir
Flute Group
Percussion Group
Saxophone Group
Theory Lessons
Wind Quintet
Chamber Choir
Concert Band
Orchestra
Recorder Group
String Quartet
Big Band
String Orchestra
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Parent Handbook
Pupils should check the Music Department noticeboard to see which day of the week a
particular ensemble is held.
Our ensembles are involved in many concerts throughout the year both in school and
outside school. Our school performances include Christmas and Summer concerts,
Christmas and Easter services and our annual Music Festival.
We aim to stage a musical theatre production at least every two years and we have a
number of opportunities for pupils to perform in the local community and in local theatre
and concert halls.
Pupils are encouraged to develop through the music examination systems of the major
colleges of music. They are also encouraged to join one of the many County Music Groups
that Staffordshire has to offer.
Drama in School
Drama plays an important part in the extra-curricular life of the school. We aim to stage at
least one major production each year, sometimes more, and all students are welcome to get
involved. Rehearsals take place directly after school and often on Sundays. There are also
regular evenings of Drama and Music, usually at the end of the Christmas and Summer
Terms. Drama students read at school occasions such as the Christmas Carol and Easter
Services.
Years 7, 8 and 9 pupils are usually taken to the theatre at least once throughout the
academic year. Evenings theatre visits are also organised and open to all pupils.
Drama is taught throughout the school. Years 7, 8 and 9 have a single lesson each week
throughout the year.
Individual and pair peripatetic LAMDA tuition is available from Grade 1 to gold Medal in a
variety of disciplines for all Year groups.
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Parent Handbook
LAMDA Speech and Acting Tuition
The London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA) is one of the oldest drama
schools in the UK and has established itself as a centre of excellence in performance
training. LAMDA examinations are designed to equip students, whatever their age or
aspirations, with a range of communication skills that will serve them well throughout their
lives.
LAMDA lessons within school encourage students to speak confidently, to engage their
audience and to genuinely enjoy public speaking and public performance.
At Stafford Grammar School, we have a visiting LAMDA teacher, Mrs Darley, who comes in
to school to work with students wishing to study speech and drama.
LAMDA tuition is organised on a peripatetic basis. Students usually attend their lessons
throughout the week on a rotational basis in order to avoid missing the same lesson on
consecutive weeks.
LAMDA tuition can be arranged on either an individual basis or with two students sharing.
LAMDA tuition fees are available on the LAMDA tuition application form.
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Parent Handbook
Fees are paid termly in advance direct to the LAMDA teacher. One term’s notice is required
should a student no longer wish to study speech and drama.
The application form for LAMDA lessons can be found on the school website under
‘Admissions’ and ‘Parent Information’:
http://www.staffordgrammar.co.uk/admissions/parents . The form can either be returned
to Mrs Darley by e-mail (lamda@staffordgrammar.co.uk) or printed and returned to Mrs
Darley at the school.
Should you wish to contact Mrs Darley prior to arranging LAMDA tuition please feel free to
e-mail her: lamda@staffordgrammar.co.uk
Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
The school runs a very active and successful programme of activities for the Duke of
Edinburgh’s Award.
The scheme is voluntary and pupils are introduced to the scheme in the Spring Term of Year
9. Once they have enrolled, they participate in the bronze award during Year 9 and, if they
wish to continue, in the silver award in Years 10 and 11. Sixth Form students are encouraged
to participate in the gold award scheme.
The requirement is to undertake one activity in each of the service, skills and physical
recreation sections and undertake a demanding, self-sufficient expedition, usually on foot.
The school organises training and practice for the expedition section and supervises the
qualifying expedition.
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Parent Handbook
Religion in School
The school is founded on Christian principles but is not affiliated to any of the
denominations. It is anticipated that all pupils will take part in acts of worship in school
assemblies.
There are timetables lessons in Religious Education for all pupils in Years 7, 8 and 9 and the
curriculum emphasises the traditional Christian approach to faith and life. There is no set
scheme for pupils to be removed from this education, but parents might wish to speak to
the Headmaster about such a possibility. The school aims to instil a broad understanding of
all six of the world’s major religions in Years 7, 8 and 9.
RE is offered as an optional GCSE and A-level subject.
There is a formal Christmas service each year in a local church and a formal Easter Service in
school. Parents are welcome to attend.
Health Education
Sex and Relationships Education is initially met in Year 7 as an integral part of the Science
course. Events leading to fertilisation and ante-natal care are covered briefly and simply.
Potential worries arising from adolescence and puberty are also considered. The school
nurse delivers separate lessons, during PSHE time, on sex and relationships to separate
groups of boys and girls in Years 7 and 8. The PSHE course also covers matters of hygiene
and other aspects of a healthy lifestyle including diet, exercise, drugs, alcohol and solvent
abuse.
At GCSE level, commencing in Year 9, sex education and human reproduction are reconsidered
in more detail, with additional topics covered as appropriate throughout the
three year course. Areas covered include relationships, contraceptives, abortion, fertility
treatment, ‘in vitro’ fertilisation, sexually transmitted diseases and the dangers of smoking,
drinking and drugs during pregnancy. Lessons will be supported with, although not replaced
by, videos and leaflets from the Health Education Authority. Every effort will be made to
treat sensitive topics with delicacy and understanding and to promote the importance of the
family.
As part of the Life Skills course, all pupils will receive supplementary tuition about tobacco,
alcohol and drug abuse.
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Parent Handbook
Special Educational Needs
The purpose of the Special Educational Needs provision at Stafford Grammar School is to
ensure that the provision relates to the specific needs of the individual pupil.
It is vital that parents inform the school of any relevant information and assessments prior
to the pupil joining the school. Our aim is to make transition as smooth as possible.
If teachers observe a particular issue with a pupil, they discuss the matter with the Head of
Educational Support (SENDCo) who initiates discussion with parents. This may lead to a
formal assessment, for example an Educational Psychologist’s report undertaken by Dyslexia
Action. The majority of pupils with Special Educational Needs at Stafford Grammar School
are dyslexic and almost all follow the full school curriculum. Very occasionally, a pupil will
have an adjusted timetable according to their specific needs.
The most up-to-date version of the school’s Special Educational Needs and Disability Policy
can be found here:
http://www.staffordgrammar.co.uk/our-school/school-policies
Able, Gifted and Talented
The school aims to stretch and challenge those pupils whose ability in a particular area is
significantly above that of the majority of their peers within school and/or whose
performance is significantly beyond what might be expected, taking into consideration the
degree of support /teaching/coaching the pupil receives.
Extension and enrichment are at the heart of our approach to enable able, gifted and
talented learners to reach their potential.
Full details of the school’s AGT provision can be found in the Able, Gifted and Talented
Policy.
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Parent Handbook
Careers
Careers Advice is given to Years 10 and 11 as part of their Life Skills Programme. The Year 10
programme is of a general nature, whilst the syllabus for Year 11 pays more attention to
individual aspirations and specific careers.
Year 9 have a full ‘Careers Day’ in school and Y10 attend the Skills Show at the NEC
Birmingham. Year 11 pupils have individual careers interviews with an external advisor.
The Sixth Form students are prepared for university entrance or employment within the
Sixth Form tutor period. At the end of the Lower Sixth, a full day is dedicated to beginning
the UCAS process and students are supported throughout. There is a comprehensive
programme of support and individual monitoring by the UCAS co-ordinator and a team of
tutors. Staff are available in August when the A-level results are published to give an
additional help needed.
Further details can be found in the school’s Careers Policy.
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Parent Handbook
Pastoral Care
The system of pastoral care involves subject teachers and Heads of Department who
oversee academic progress within specific subject areas. Overall academic progress and
pastoral support is overseen by tutors, Heads and Deputy Heads of House.
Form tutors endeavour to get to know all of the pupils in their tutor group as well as
possible, to encourage and support them and to act as their advocate. The form tutor
registers the form each day and checks homework diaries once per week.
The form tutor will encourage pupils to get involved in as many of the varied activities in
school as appropriate. The form tutor should be the pupil’s first port of call if they have an
issue or need support in any way.
Participation in clubs and activities is an excellent way of developing friendships and
increasing confidence.
In the Sixth Form, a slightly different system operates. Although retaining the same Head of
House, the student will have a form tutor from the team of Sixth Form tutors. Further to
this, each student has the option to choose their own personal tutor in the Sixth Form. This
is normally someone with whom the sixth former has built a rapport. The Head of Sixth
Form has overall responsibility for the Sixth Form.
Pastoral Care is also supported by the school nurses and co-ordinated by members of the
Senior Leadership Team.
Anti-Bullying Policy
The school’s Anti-Bullying Policy can be found on the school website, here:
http://www.staffordgrammar.co.uk/our-school/school-policies
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Parent Handbook
The House System
All pupils at Stafford Grammar School belong to one of three Houses: Anson, Fitzherbert or
Talbot. Pupils become a member of their House on joining the school and under normal
circumstances will remain a member of that House until they leave. The House is staffed by
a Head of House, a Deputy Head of House and a team of tutors who are responsible for
oversight of all academic and pastoral matters.
The Houses are much more than just administrative entities. They are communities on a
more manageable scale than the whole school and considerable loyalty to the Houses is
generated among pupils over a period of time.
There are a large number of competitions based on the House system, ranging from the
Great Egg Race through Public Speaking and ‘The Challenge’ to the polyathlon, in which the
Houses compete against each other in a wide range of sports.
The allocation of pupils to Houses is based on a range of data. Siblings become members of
the same House, accentuating the family atmosphere, which is an essential element in the
ethos of the school. A pupil’s musical, sporting and dramatic talents are taken into account,
as is their academic ability, in order to achieve, as far as possible, an equitable distribution
of skills across the Houses.
Pupils can gain House points for helpfulness, good behaviour and for good work in certain
competitions. The House is the main vehicle for the recognition of achievement by the
pupils and all feedback from parents is welcomed.
As the pupils generally have the same Head of House throughout their time at school, this
member of staff is ideally suited to write their references for Further Education or
employment.
Activities and Inter-House Competition
We regard involvement in the many clubs, activities and inter-House competitions as an
essential part of school life, giving breadth of experience and opportunity to develop
responsibility and initiative. Interest in a range of activities and evidence of involvement in
school life is highly valued by universities and potential employers and is always commented
upon when the school provides references.
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Parent Handbook
Parent Contact
Should a parent of a pupil in Years 7 to 11 wish to discuss their child, or any other matter
concerning the school, they should make initial contact with the Form Tutor. The Form Tutor
will then arrange to meet with parents, along with the Head or Deputy Head of House. In
certain circumstances, a meeting may be arranged with the Headmaster or member of the
Senior Leadership Team. In the Sixth Form, parents should contact the Sixth Form Tutor or
Head of Sixth Form. The Headmaster can, of course, be approached directly where
circumstances dictate.
If a parent wishes to contact the school on an administrative matter, e.g. absence, doctor’s
appointment etc. they should do this by letter to the Form Tutor. As a matter of courtesy,
we expect pupils to inform the relevant subject teachers where appropriate regarding
appointments and missing lessons. If parents need to contact the school as a matter of
urgency, they should contact the Headmaster’s secretary on 01785 249752. If they wish to
comment on homework, the simplest method is to make a comment in the Homework
diary, which will be noted by the Form tutor, who will then inform subject teachers and
Heads of House as appropriate.
The school actively encourages parents to inform the Form Tutor of any worries about their
child, any factors which should perhaps be noted, and, very importantly, any achievements
outside school. The school’s philosophy sees education as a partnership between parents
and the school.
If a pastoral matter becomes apparent at school, the Form Tutor or Head of House will
contact the parents as soon as possible. If the issue is an academic or behavioural matter, it
is likely that the pupil will be put on Report. This consists of a school record, lesson-bylesson,
of observations by subject teachers on homework, class work, attitude or a summary
of all of these.
Information is given to pupils during form periods regarding trips, activities, events, room
changes etc. and a newsletter is posted on the school website. Parents are also encouraged
to follow the school’s Twitter account and Facebook page in order to receive regular
updates and information:
@StaffordGrammar on Twitter
https://www.facebook.com/StaffordGrammar/
A diary in the form of a term card containing dates of school events e.g. Parents’ Evenings, is
issued each term and is available on the school website.
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Parent Handbook
Complaints Procedure
The Complaints Policy is available on the school website:
http://www.staffordgrammar.co.uk/our-school/school-policies
Prefects and Sixth Form Responsibilities
The Sixth Form students take on a number of responsibilities to help ensure the smooth
running of the school. Such responsibilities include regular duties around the school and
helping younger pupils as form managers; all this helps in their own personal development.
Sixth Formers can also do regular community service and assist with tours and the
organisation of House and School events. There is considerable support from tutors and
House staff.
These responsibilities encapsulate the broader purpose of the school and are generally
undertaken willingly and enthusiastically. The school recognises the importance of these
activities through the award of colours and in personal commendations and references.
Around Easter each year a number of pupils are appointed as prefects.
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Parent Handbook
Reports, Grades and Pupil Assessment
Reporting to parents on a pupil’s academic performance takes three forms: Parents’
Evenings, Grades and Reports. Each pupil in the school will receive at least three grade slips
and one full written report each year. In each half term, each pupil will receive at least one
of the above three forms of feedback.
Full details of the meaning of grades can be found in the Reports, Grades and Pupil
Assessment Policy and the Meaning of Grades Guidance form Parents.
First Aid
The school employs two-part time nurses and there are several trained first aiders on the
staff. They are capable of dealing with most minor ailments and injuries.
Any pupil suffering an injury will either be treated by a nurse or a first aider, or if the injury
is more severe will be taken to hospital. Parents will be contacted immediately. This is
necessary in case any consent should be required.
If a pupil falls ill whilst at school the pupil will be seen by the nurse or a first aider and, if
necessary, the parents will be contacted with a view to collecting their child.
If a pupil requires on-going medication, temporarily or permanently, it is important that the
school nurse is informed. If a pupil should need to go to hospital for any reason and he or
she is on medication, it is important that the hospital can be informed of this.
The school nurses must be informed of any medical condition from which the pupil may
suffer. This information, as with all information relating to health, is treated as confidential
and is only released on a need-to-know basis.
If pupils are prescribed medication, it should be clearly labelled with the pupil’s name and
required dose and be deposited with the school nurses, or in the event of their absence the
school office. This is to avoid loss or the possibility that medicines might fall into the hands
of other pupils.
Inhalers – All pupils who use inhalers must leave a spare in the school office. This must be
named and will only be used in an emergency. Should your child have an asthma attack we
will be unable to help unless we have a named inhaler.
Further information can be found in the First Aid Section of the school’s Health and Safety
Policy:
http://www.staffordgrammar.co.uk/our-school/school-policies
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Parent Handbook
Safety and Fire Prevention
Regular Fire Drills take place at school and all rooms and fire-fighting equipment are
checked weekly by the school Fire Officers.
Each yea, inspection of the school’s fire-fighting equipment is made by the suppliers and
inspections of the school are made by the Fire Brigade’s operational branch.
Valuables
The school has insurance to cover theft by forcible entry and fire damage to pupils’
belongings.
Theft in other circumstances or other forms of damage should be covered by the parent’s
own insurance policy. Any suspected theft should be reported to the office immediately.
Pupils should avoid bringing valuables such as expensive cameras, i-pods etc. into school.
Any items such as musical instruments, expensive sports equipment and significant amounts
of cash which are brought into school must be handed to the main office and will be locked
into a secure room for safe keeping.
Before the start of PE lessons pupils should hand watches to PE staff. These will then be
locked away. Please make sure that watches are named so they can be returned to their
rightful owners after the lesson.
All property brought onto school premises is the responsibility of its owner. Stafford
Grammar School does not accept the responsibility for theft, loss or damage to property
that has not been handed to the office for safekeeping.
Mobile phones may not be brought into school, except by Sixth Form students for whom
different rules apply. Pupils below the Sixth Form who bring a mobile phone into school with
specific permission, for example for after school activities, must leave it in the school office
during the day.
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Parent Handbook
Lost Property
Experience proves that the majority of items that have ‘gone missing’ have actually been left
lying around by their owners and forgotten about. Items found by pupils, staff and cleaners
are handed in to the main school office. Pupils should report any loses initially to their form
tutors and the Uniform Shop deals with lost property. A similar system operates in the
Sports Hall with lost sports kit and property. Any unnamed, unclaimed items left in lost
property for more than a term will be passed to the uniform shop for sale as second-hand
uniform.
School Trips
Many school trips are organised during the course of the academic year.
Such trips involve a good deal of additional staff time, which is willingly given. It is
important, however, that parents collect their children promptly and are at school at the
time when trips are scheduled to return. It is necessary for parents to give written
permission before their child can take part in a school trip. Specific details and/or
regulations will be published and sent home when appropriate.
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Parent Handbook
Transport Arrangements
Should you wish to make use of the school’s transport provision, please complete the
School Transport Service Request form and return it to the Transport Manager as soon as
possible and no later than the end of the first week in June.
Please indicate on the form if your travel requirements are not full time.
Once all returns have been received the Transport Manager will then allocate seats and
confirm your child’s place on the bus. Confirmation is sent out towards the end of July.
Places are conditional and can only be allocated on receipt of the ‘School Transport Service
Request’ form.
Students potentially joining the Sixth Form
As places on school transport are allocated at the beginning of July, spaces may be available
at short notice prior to the start of the new academic year. Forms should be returned
marked ‘Provisional’ in order to allocate a seat.
Due to high demand for places on buses the following will apply should a route become
over-subscribed. Priority will be given to:
1. Pupils travelling both ways. (This is regardless of distance from school)
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Parent Handbook
2. Pupils travelling one way from furthest location.
3. Pupils travelling on fixed a.m. or p.m. journeys.
4. A space allocated to a pupil travelling one way only, i.e. a.m., that a space may be
allocated to a different pupil travelling one way on a p.m. trip.
The annual cost of travel will be levied in equal instalments over the three school terms and
invoiced prior to each half term holiday. A half term’s notice is required, in writing, should
you no longer wish to use the service and, in such cases, a separate invoice will be issued to
cover any outstanding costs.
Many things can change through the course of the year, e.g. a dramatic change in fuel
prices, a change in the number of pupils travelling on a route etc. These changes may
require us to review the cost of daily travel or moving your son/daughter to a different
route.
You may be aware that, where possible, we try to offer a bespoke transport service, picking
up many pupils from the vicinity of their homes. As new pupils join the bus routes, and
other leave, this has an effect on the actual route taken by each bus. An annual review of
each route is conducted during June/July so that the route taken by each bus may change
from that taken previously.
The safety record of the school fleet is exemplary and we are very proud of the standard of
driving displayed by our team of drivers. Unfortunately, however, there may be a time when
even these high standards are not able to cope with events beyond their control. For this
reason, an accident and reporting procedure exists at the school, such that, should we find
ourselves in this situation we will be able to deal with it quickly and efficiently. To enable us
to do this, we require and up-to-date emergency contact number. With your permission,
your daily contact number will be passed on to the regular minibus driver only.
There may be times that your son or daughter wishes a friend to travel to or from school
with them. The driver must be asked first to ascertain if there is room. Permission can then
be granted by obtaining a travel slip from the Transport Manager or the main office. A
minimum charge of £4.00 per trip will be applied for this service for those pupils who are
not registered to use the bus service on a regular basis.
Should you have any concerns regarding transport please contact Mr Potts, the Transport
Manager, at the school.
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