year 8 booklet

Year of entry 2012 - 2013

Friends’ School LisburnFriends’ School Lisburn

PARENT BOOKLET

YEAR 8

2012 – 2013


Welcome

May 2012 Dear Parent This booklet gives information about Friends’ School and provides guidance about our policies and procedures. I hope that it will prove a useful point of reference as your son or daughter prepares to join School in September. Pupils will each receive their own booklet at the start of the new term, giving them further details of the day to day routines in School. I value your support and feel that good relationships between home and school underpin our work in seeking to achieve excellence within a caring, supportive community. With best wishes

Elizabeth Dickson Principal

NORTHERN IRELAND SCHOOL OF THE YEAR 2011

FRIENDS’ SCHOOL 6 Magheralave Road, Lisburn Co Antrim BT28 3BH Tel: 028 9266 2156 Fax: 028 9267 2134

e-mail: [email protected]

web site: www.friendsschoollisburn.org.uk


The Foundation

Friends’ School was founded in 1774. For the first hundred years of its existence it was a small boarding school catering for members of the Society of Friends in Ulster, providing a general and practical education designed for the needs of that community. In the late nineteenth century, it opened its doors to all children and with the development of Lisburn and the expansion of public education, the school grew rapidly. As a Voluntary Grammar School, it plays a significant role within the state system, in addition to fulfilling the function for which it was first established.

The school has always sought the development of Christian character as an essential part of good education. However, denominational bias is avoided and children from a wide variety of backgrounds learn tolerance for the viewpoints of others and respect for the needs of the community.


Values

Mission Statement, Values & Aims Mission Statement Friends’ School seeks to provide an environment in which pupils, staff and parents are committed to the idea of ex-cellence within a caring, supportive community. Values The school owes its continuity and stability to its foundation by the Religious Society of Friends. The present aims are in sympathy with the general principles of the Society which: (a) values individuals as of equal standing before God (b) accepts the indivisibility of the sacred and secular aspects of life (c) encourages the development of a sense of social awareness through service Aims To fulfil the Mission Statement, the following aims have been established:

1) to enable all pupils to develop their academic potentials and interests to the fullest extent 2) to provide a broad and balanced curriculum relevant to the needs of our pupils 3) to foster the self-esteem of pupils and staff 4) to encourage the moral and spiritual development of our pupils 5) to establish a partnership between the School, parents and the local community 6) to prepare pupils for adult life


Organisation

Staff and Organisation

The Board of Governors, consisting of representatives from the Society of Friends, the Department of Education, parents and staff, has responsibility for the appointment of staff and the running of the school. The Principal, with the Leadership Team, is responsible for the formulation of curriculum policy, pastoral care and the general administration of the school.

The Heads of Department are responsible for the development and organisation of the teaching programmes in each subject area. The Vice Principals and Senior Teachers are responsible for curriculum and pastoral development and provision. A Head of School oversees the work of Year Teachers with two Year Teachers assigned to each year group and assisted by five Collect Teachers. The Collect Teachers meet their group daily for registration. The Year Teachers have direct responsibility for each pupil’s progress and for communication with parents, teachers and the Principal on pastoral and academic issues. Matters concerning individual pupils will normally be dealt with by Year Teachers in the first instance. Year Teachers can normally be contacted by telephone between 8.45 am and 9.00 am or by arrangement made through the General Office. The Bursar and Office Staff facilitate the administration of the school.

PRINCIPAL Elizabeth G Dickson VICE-PRINCIPALS John Atkins (Organisation)

Aidín Collins (Curriculum)

Linda Heggarty (Pastoral)

SENIOR TEACHER

(Head of Junior School) Stephen Moore

YEAR TEACHERS Miss L McMurray (Girls)

Mr C Wilson (Boys)


General Information Contact Information

1 All calls are received by the General Office: Telephone No: 028 9266 2156 Fax No: 028 9267 2134 E-mail: [email protected] Opening Hours: 8.45 am - 4.30 pm

2 Appointments with Mrs Dickson are made by her Secretaries, Mrs Reddock and Miss Johnson (Job Share)

[email protected] 3 The following is a guide to specific matters: (a) advance notice of absence - letter to Mrs Dickson (b) explanation of absence - letter to Collect Teacher on FIRST DAY of return (c) review of pupil progress - contact Year Teacher/Head of Junior School (d) pastoral concern - contact Year Teacher/Head of Junior School/Vice Principal Pastoral (e) medical information - contact School Nurse (Mrs Copes) (f) fees, bills, etc - contact Bursar (Mr Hendry) (g) School policy matters - contact Principal or Vice Principals

General Organisation

The school has seven year groups: Years 8 - 14. When pupils come into School, they are placed alphabetically in registration groups called Collects. It is within Collects, which meet daily, that pupils form their early friendships and consequently they remain in these groups until Year 14. Year 8 pupils are unstreamed and are taught in Collect groups for all but the practical subjects where the teaching groups are smaller. From Year 10, pupils are progressively streamed for Mathematics and Languages and their position is re-assessed at regular intervals. Other subjects largely remain unstreamed. We have a House system with four Houses - Aughrim, Collin, Croob and Divis - which have members from each year, led by Sixth Form House Captains and Staff House Leaders. All pupils are allocated to a House. Regular House competitions and activities take place.

School Policies

Policy statements are maintained on a wide variety of aspects of School life. These serve to give an indication of practice and procedures and provide guidance for staff and parents. Policies are in line with Department of Education recommendations and requirements and are reviewed regularly. Parents and pupils are asked to make themselves familiar with the following policies, which can be downloaded from the School Website: www.friendsschoollisburn.org.uk: • Acceptable Use of the Internet • Acceptable Use of Mobile Phones (including Use of MP3 Players and Other Hand-Held Electronic Devices) • Anti-Bullying • Assessment • Behaviour • Curriculum • Child Protection • Drugs • Pastoral Care • Promotion of Healthy Lifestyle • Relationships and Sexuality • Special Educational Needs These policies are kept under review in order to reflect our continuing concern for the personal and social development of all pupils, as individuals and as secure, successful and fully participating members of Friends’ School and its wider community. Parents wishing to discuss aspects of School policy are welcome to contact a member of the Senior staff.


The Transition

Year 8 Transition We aim to make the transfer from primary school to Year 8 at Friends’ School as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

In June, parents are invited to meet the Principal and Senior staff to discuss details of their children joining School and to receive information about school procedures. Pupils and parents are invited to an evening meeting on Tuesday 12 June 2012 at 7.30 pm when pupils will have an opportunity to meet their Collect Teachers, Year Teachers and members of their Collect. Sixth Form pupils are allocated to Year 8 Collects as Mentors and there will be the opportunity to meet with Mentors also on that evening.

Pupils and parents are also invited by the Parent Teacher Association to a Year 8 BBQ and Fun Evening on Tuesday 26 June 2012 from 7.00 pm – 9.00 pm.

On Tuesday 28 August 2012, Year 8 pupils are invited into School to meet again with their Collects and to begin to familiarise themselves with their surroundings. Pupils come in again on Wednesday 29 August 2012, the start of the Autumn Term and spend the morning mostly in Collects. Pupils receive details of their timetables, are allocated lockers and introduced to the arrangements for break and lunch times. They also receive information about the range of extra curricular activities available in School.

Pupils have a half hour period of time called Extended Collect, on Friday mornings, from 8.45 am – 9.15 am, which is a further opportunity, with Collect Teachers and Mentors, to discuss pupil concerns and issues relating to their induction, organisation and personal and social development .

We place much value on our morning Assembly. Year 8 pupils attend Main Assembly on Monday mornings and Year Assemblies on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings. This allows time for quiet reflection through a period of Silence and guidance on a range of relevant moral and social issues. Assemblies also provide pupils with an opportunity to feel an integral part of the School community and to celebrate and share with other pupils.


Pastoral Care

Pastoral Care

School is very concerned in promoting both the academic and the personal and social development of our pupils. We aim to create an environment which is based on the principles of care, security and responsibility. The pastoral care of pupils is the concern of all teachers who endeavour to support pupils in their learning and in their contribution to the school community.

School has established a structure to support and implement the provision of pastoral care. It has three main aims:

1 to enable the monitoring of pupils' progress, achievement and contribution to School

2 to enable a variety of issues, whether personal, social or vocational, to be addressed

3 to ensure that pupils and parents have clear points of contact in the event of concerns being raised or guidance being sought.

The welfare and development of pupils involves both parents and teachers. Collect Teachers have daily contact with the pupils in their group and provide a regular point of pastoral contact. Year Teachers supervise the general welfare and the academic progress of pupils. Pupils have access to a confidential counselling service provided on two days each week. Counselling can be arranged, as discreetly as possible, via the Vice Principal Pastoral, L Heggarty or through referral from parents, Year Teachers or pupils themselves. In the event of self referral, pupils are encouraged to tell their parents.

Child Protection

In line with the advice contained in Department of Education Circular "Pastoral Care in Schools: Child Protection", the School Policy contains details on recognising signs of abuse and specifies procedures to follow in the event of a concern being expressed or a report received.

In brief, the procedure for parents wishing to report a Child Protection concern is:

(a) contact Designated Teacher or Deputy Designated Teacher, in the first instance

DESIGNATED TEACHER Linda Heggarty (Vice-Principal) DEPUTY DESIGNATED TEACHER To be confirmed

(b) The PRINCIPAL will initiate and take responsibility for appropriate action, including possible referral to outside

agencies.


Mentors

Pupil Mentors

Many Senior pupils assist with the pastoral support of junior pupils. Three Sixth Form volunteers are assigned to each Collect group in Year 8 and these pupils are called Mentors. They help with the induction of new pupils and meet four mornings a week with Year 8 Collects. They provide practical information for new pupils and give guidance and support on personal organisation, routines and procedures, study, homework and relationships within School. Their experience of school life and the variety of situations which arise is of benefit to younger pupils as they adapt to the new environment and as they progress through Year 8. Mentors are also available on a one-to-one basis to provide study and subject support for individual pupils.

It is hoped that these arrangements for pastoral care will help pupils to achieve their full potential, teachers to work effectively and parents to feel confidence in the school provision for intervention, support and monitoring of individual pupils.


School day

The School Day School is opened to pupils at 8.30 am. Pupils arriving before that time may go to the Dining Hall where breakfast is available from 8.00 am.

Pupils should leave the premises before 3.50 pm unless they are involved in organised activities.

The Library is open and supervised during Break and Lunch times daily and on Monday – Thursday afternoons from 3.30 pm to 4.30 pm. Pupils may use the Library for completing homeworks and private study.

The Curriculum

Through the curriculum we aim to give pupils a broad, balanced and relevant education. Within this general aim we offer equal opportunities to all pupils and seek to delay specialisation as long as possible. Pupils entering Year 8 will be taught the revised Northern Ireland Curriculum where emphasis is placed on learning through the acquisition of skills. Pupils will be involved in investigative and interactive work, the preparation and delivery of presentations and self assessment of their progress.

Teaching and Learning strategies employed in the classroom provide pupils with appropriate opportunities to develop and display their creativity, independence, collaboration and encourage the acquisition of the necessary skills for effective learning.

8.45 am Bell : Pupils go to Collect 8.50 am Bell : Collect Begins 9.00 am Assembly 9.15 am Period 1 9.50 am Period 2 10.25 am BREAK 10.40 am Period 3 11.15 am Period 4 11.50 am Period 5 12.25 pm - 1.00 pm Period 6 Lunch Years 8 – 10 (12.25 pm – 1.10 pm ) 1.10 pm - 1.45 pm Period 7 Lunch Years 11 – 14 ( 1.00 pm – 1.45 pm) 1.45 pm Period 8 2.20 pm Period 9 2.55 pm Period 10 3.30 pm School Ends


Key Stage 3 Curriculum (Years 8-10)

Pupils take subjects from the following Learning Areas:

ENGLISH English

Drama

MATHEMATICS Mathematics

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY Information Technology (Years 8 & 9)

Technology

Junior Science (Year 8)

Biology, Chemistry, Physics, (Years 9 & 10)

THE ENVIRONMENT AND SOCIETY History

Geography

THE ARTS Art and Design

Music

MODERN LANGUAGES French

German or Spanish (in addition to French from Year 9)

PHYSICAL EDUCATION PE

Games

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION RE

LEARNING FOR LIFE AND WORK Home Economics

Citizenship

Employability

Personal Development

Curriculum


The School week is divided into 45 periods, each lasting 35 minutes. Pupils study all of the subjects listed in the table below and pupils are timetabled for double periods in the practical subjects. In Year 8 classes are un-streamed. Pupils are divided alphabetically into five Collect groups and are taught in this arrangement for non practical subjects. The practical subjects, asterisked below, are taught in either 6 or 7 alphabetically arranged groups. Pupils are given every encouragement to achieve the highest personal academic standards through challenging and engaging lessons.

Year 8 Subject Art and Design* 2

Drama 1

English

6

French

5

Games

2

Geography

3

History

3

Home Economics*

2

Information Technology*

2

Learning for Life and Work (not inc HE)

1

Mathematics

6

Music*

2

Physical Education

2

Religious Education

2

Science (Junior)*

4

Technology*

2

Total 45

Timetable


A sample timetable


Art & Design In Year 8 Art & Design the course is organised in a series of units designed to introduce pupils progressively to basic skills and new experiences with both practical and conceptual elements. Over the year pupils are given project work to help them develop a personal approach to creativity and responsibility for the organisation and time management of their work. A Gallery Visit Project requires pupils to visit an Art Gallery or Craft shop to investigate the nature of the work there and to begin to develop a critical awareness through their own responses. Pupils learn to apply essential sills of Colour, Line and Tone to Drawing, Painting and Visual Recording and an ICT unit introduces the pupils to Photoshop in the form of a Digital Self-Portrait. A unit on Texture widens the range of media and material processes and pupils are assessed in this unit on their ability to show personal creativity. The Textiles unit introduces pupils to simple stitching and uses of material in preparation for a more extensive unit in Year 9. The use of contextual and historical sources supports all units. Pupils research background and related information to increase their understanding of their own work and the cultural contribution which Art & Design makes to their lives. Homework takes the form of personal research, in written and visual forms, continuing with work begun in class and collecting relevant sources from libraries and the Internet.

English

All pupils in Year 8 have six periods of English per week; one of these is a dedicated Library period. Here pupils are encouraged to read for pleasure and follow a course on library and research skills. Additionally, pupils have one period per week of Drama where they practise the skills of speaking, improvisation and dramatic role play. Pupils use the NI Key Stage 3 English Year 8 textbook which meets the requirements of the Revised Curriculum for Northern Ireland. The units of work provide a range of texts, tasks and activities which challenge and extend their knowledge, understanding and skills of language in all the main modalities of learning: Managing Information, Thinking, Problem solving, Decision making, Being Creative, Working with Others, and Self Management. Topics studied include: You and Your Language, Our Environment, Rhyme and Reason, The Reader’s Point of View, Reader’s Theatre, Using the Plot, Toil and Trouble and Reading Images. Through focusing on these areas of learning pupils are encouraged to see the purposes and audiences for language and the differences between the genre and the form of texts. Pupils also read and study three class novels during the year. Each novel is accompanied by a Study Booklet through which pupils engage in a range of Reading, Writing and Talking and Listening exercises. Pupils also have the opportunity to read a drama text and to study poetry from a Key Stage 3 Poetry Anthology. Pupils use dedicated workbooks on Spelling, Punctuation and Grammar and Reading Comprehension. Pupils also have the opportunity to engage in a range of ICT tasks. Pupils show progression in the skills of Communication through completing a series of tasks during Key Stage 3 which are formally reported at the end of the key stage and they complete two English home works per week, one of which may be reading. A spelling homework is set on a weekly basis. All pupils are encouraged to enter the many competitions the English Department supports including the Lisburn Arts Annual Creative Writing competition. Additionally, pupils will have many opportunities to display and exhibit their work in the classroom and in the school magazine.

Subjects


Drama All Year 8 pupils have one period of Drama each week. The focus is on confidence building and exploration of relationships. Pupils experience a range of Drama activities including role play and improvisation.

French All pupils begin studying French at the start of Year 8 and continue with the language in Years 9 and 10. In addition, pupils take either German or Spanish from the beginning of Year 9 and continue with this second language in Year 10. In Year 8, pupils cover the following topic areas: family life, pets, where they live, describing their house, classroom objects and commands, weather, clothes, days of the week, months of the year, sports and other activities. Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing skills are all developed. They also acquire grammatical concepts such as genders, plurals, adjectives, possessive adjectives, regular –er verbs and some irregular verbs. Thinking Skills and Personal Capabilities are developed through active learning strategies within the classroom. In Year 8 there is specific focus on the skill of Self Management. Pupils use Encore Tricolore, Book 1. To supplement this course, they use ICT packages such as Just Click and a variety of online resources. Homework generally involves vocabulary learning and completion of reading and writing tasks. There is generally one formal written homework every week. Parents can help by checking the presentation of their son/daughter’s homework and assisting with vocabulary learning. At the end of each unit of work, pupils complete a standardized assessment and are asked to record marks and set targets for improvement. They are encouraged to be actively involved in monitoring their own progress. Pupils complete reading and writing examinations mid year and again at the end of the year, when they also sit listening and speaking tests.

Subjects


Subjects Geography

All pupils in Years 8, 9 and 10 take Geography. Both the Physical and Human aspects of the subject are covered through topics such as Rocks, the World of Work, Farming and Weather. Pupils make reference to the Geography Pathways textbooks for Key Stage 3, along with a wide variety of other teaching resources. They also work in a quality learning environment, all of which hopefully foster a life long interest in geographical study and the world around us. Pupils can expect at least one written homework per week and are encouraged to maintain high levels of organisation and presentation throughout. Assessment is ongoing throughout the year in the form of standardised end of unit tests and examinations. Thinking Skills and Personal Capabilities are developed through active learning strategies within the classroom. In Year 8 there is a specific focus on Managing Information and pupils have a range of opportunities to develop further their proficiency in ICT.

Home Economics Home Economics is compulsory at KS3 and in Year 8 pupils study the following topics: What is Home Economics?, names and uses of the main items of kitchen equipment; the use of measuring equipment in the kitchen; the importance of good personal hygiene when handling food and how to prevent contamination of food during preparation, cooking, serving and storage; healthy eating; the needs of people through the life cycle; methods of cooking food and how heat is transferred during cooking; and consumer education to include methods of shopping and impulse and planned spending. The work is divided into six units and cookery practical is an integral part of the course. Pupils cook once or twice per unit of work. Worksheets are provided and pupils have the use of text books in School. Standardised homework is set regularly. At the end of each unit of work the pupils evaluate the unit, identifying what they have learned, what was interesting and highlighting any problems they may have encountered and how to solve them. There is a specific focus on developing the skill of Managing Information. An ICT task is also set when the pupils research the value of breakfast, execute a class survey on breakfasts and present this information on a spread sheet and graph.


Subjects History All pupils begin studying History at the start of Year 8 and continue with the subject in Years 9 and 10. In Year 8, pupils cover the following topic areas: Introduction to History looking specifically at Friends’ School, the Norman Conquest of England and the Normans in Ireland. Thinking Skills and Personal Capabilities are developed through active learning strategies within the classroom and there is specific focus on the skill of Problem Solving using primary and secondary sources. Pupils use a variety of school designed workbooks and textbooks to supplement classroom activities. To enhance their learning they make use of ICT facilities for research

and presentation and at the end of the year there is an opportunity to visit Norman sites in County Down. Homework generally involves research, reading and writing tasks. There is one formal written homework per week and parents can help by checking the presentation of this homework. At the end of each unit of work, pupils complete a standardised assessment, record marks and set targets for improvement. In the History Department, pupils are encouraged to be actively involved in monitoring their own progress.

ICT In Year 8, all pupils have 2 periods per week of ICT. The course aims to ensure that pupils are confident users of ICT by developing their skills in a range of software packages used both inside and outside School. These include word processing, spreadsheets, databases, desktop publishing, internet, email, web design and movie editing. Pupils complete a series of school designed tasks which relate to topics covered in School and to other familiar topics outside School. There are opportunities for pupils to work independently and also as part of a group. A number of tasks require pupils to complete work at home but this does not generally necessitate the use of a computer. Much of the work carried out at home involves the creation of designs to be used in the completion of a task or the evaluation of work that has been completed. The ICT skills taught in these lessons are reinforced across other subjects in the curriculum. Pupils have a summative assessment each term to monitor their progress. This assessment usually takes the form of a written test and a practical assignment.


Learning For Life And Work All pupils in Key Stage 3 study Learning for Life and Work comprising the contributory strands of Citizenship, Employability and Personal Development. Learning for Life and Work aims to help pupils to develop knowledge and understanding of the challenges and opportunities that they may encounter both inside and out of School; and the different values, attitudes, needs and perspectives of their own and other communities. Additionally, it aims to develop the skills, attitudes and values necessary for independent thinking, informed decision making and responsible actions. Learning for Life and Work is delivered in both timetabled classes and during special Learning for Life and Work days, at specified times throughout the year, when a range of professional agencies come into School to deliver aspects of the programme. This allows the expertise of external providers to support our curricular provision. In Years 8 and 9 pupils learn through a composite programme of Employability and Personal Development, one period per week, with a separate Citizenship period in Year 9. In Year 10, pupils have three separate periods for Citizenship, Careers Education, Information and Guidance and Personal Development. The skill Working with Others is highlighted in all year groups.

Mathematics

Pupils in Year 8 have six periods of Mathematics each week. Teaching aims to both consolidate and develop the work covered in Key Stage 2 and introduce pupils to some new mathematical concepts. Thinking Skills and Personal Capabilities are developed through active learning strategies within the classroom. In Year 8 there is particular focus on Managing Information and Problem Solving. A Using Mathematics task involving Data Handling as well as an ICT task using spreadsheets is also completed in Year 8. Pupils use STP Mathematics 8A to supplement this course as well as several worksheets. Four homeworks per week are set, one of which is generally a formal written homework to be completed in a homework book. Other homeworks generally involve further practice on work covered in class and parents can help by checking the presentation of homework. At the end of each topic pupils do a standardized test and are asked to record marks, set targets for improvement and be involved actively in monitoring their own progress.

Subjects


Music In Year 8, pupils engage in Music in a practical way through singing, keyboard skills, African drumming, listening activities, conducting and music technology. They have opportunities to improvise, compose and work together in groups. Students begin to read music and practical work caters for all abilities. The course aims to improve pupils’ self esteem, self expression and encourage active and enjoyable music making.

Physical Education In Year 8 pupils have two periods of Physical Education and two periods of Games each week. During Physical Education classes all Year 8 pupils participate in and learn the value of Health Related Exercise, Swimming, Gymnastics, Fundamental Movement Skills, Athletics and Softball. During the Games lessons boys are given opportunities to play Rugby, Hockey and Cricket and the girls sample Hockey, Netball, Dance, Rounders, Tennis and Badminton. A variety of Thinking Skills and Personal Capabilities are developed through active learning strategies with specific focus on the skills of Thinking, Problem Solving and Decision Making. Within all Physical Education lessons pupils learn how to: • work effectively as a team • work independently • work with a partner • communicate their own knowledge of Physical Education to other pupils At the end of each unit of work, pupils are assessed and progress is communicated formally to parents through reports.

Subjects


Religious Education Pupils have 2 periods of Religious Education each week in Year 8. They are encouraged to form and develop their own views and to listen and respect the views of others. In Year 8, pupils cover the following topics; introduction to the Bible, Creation and Self-Image, the Environment, Old Testament characters, family relationships and the church today. At all times we seek to make the course relevant to life today. Pupils use a variety of in-house work booklets and online resources. Thinking Skills and Personal Capabilities are developed through active learning strategies and in Year 8 there is specific focus on the skill of Being Creative. Pupils complete two Communication cross-curricular assessment tasks, one of which is a Writing task and the other a Talking and Listening task. Homework involves research, writing and presentation tasks and parents can help by discussing homework tasks and encouraging pupils to plan and work independently. Pupils complete a variety of standardised assessments and are encouraged to evaluate their work and effort.

Science All pupils study a composite Science course in Year 8 and in Years 9 and 10 focus is on the three separate Sciences – Biology, Chemistry and Physics - taught by subject specialist teachers. In Year 8 pupils cover the following topics: Being a Scientist, Cells and Living Systems, Forces Everywhere, Solutions and Separations, Human Reproduction, Acids and Alkalis, the Universe and Electricity. All laboratory-based skills are developed through these topics and a range of Thinking Skills and Personal Capabilities are developed through the different active learning approaches used in the classroom. Homework tasks give pupils the opportunity to develop some of the key skills that have been the focus of classroom teaching and at the end of each topic there is a standardised assessment. Pupils are encouraged to keep a record of their marks and to set targets for development.

Subjects


Technology and Design All pupils study Technology and Design from Year 8 to Year 10. In Year 8, pupils engage in the following activities; learning to work safely in a workshop, using plastic to manufacture a key ring, using graphic design skills to represent ideas in three-dimensions, designing and making an electronic Christmas card, designing and making a desk tidy and using Computer-Aided Design (CAD). The Year 8 course is designed to be fun and engaging and seeks to contribute to the development of Thinking Skills and Personal Capabilities. In particular we focus on the skills of Being Creative, Self Management and Working with Others. Pupils often work on A3 paper and use A3 folders to store their work. Booklets are distributed for all topics covered during the year. Pupils are expected to place these safely in their folders which can be stored in the Technology and Design Department when not needed for work at home. Homework is usually in the form of work sheets or a graphics task and if a major graphics task is set, pupils will usually be given three to four weeks to complete it. Pupil work during term time is assessed and usually includes practical, graphical and written work.

Subjects


Skills The skill of effective Communication is at the core of all learning and is developed in a progressive way through Talking, Listening, Reading and Writing in English lessons and reinforced across all subjects. Similarly, pupils’ ability in Using Mathematics, taught primarily through Mathematics, is developed and consolidated across the curriculum. Meetings between Friends’ School KS3 Co-ordinators of Communication and Using Mathematics and those from our feeder primary schools ensure meaningful transition for pupils to School. The school has a well structured programme to ensure pupils consolidate their existing ICT skills and develop their capability to solve problems using various software packages, therefore providing the foundation for cross subject reinforcement and progression. The Northern Ireland Curriculum has identified the development of Thinking Skills and Personal Capabilities as central to enabling pupils to become effective learners across all subjects. These skills encourage pupils’ ability to think both critically and creatively and to develop personal and interpersonal skills and dispositions which help them in their learning. The five skills are:

• Managing Information • Thinking, Problem-Solving and Decision-Making • Being Creative • Working With Others • Self Management

Pupils acquire all five skills through all subjects but focus on the development of the skills that are most appropriate to the content of each subject.

Assessment and Reporting

Assessment is an integral part of the school curriculum. Teachers assess pupil progress in Year 8 both in an on-going way, referred to as Assessment for Learning, as well as in a summative way, which is Assessment of Learning. Pupil progress is also reviewed by pastoral staff to identify both strengths and areas for improvement and to assist pupils in personal target setting and action planning.

Assessment For Learning Assessment for Learning is very much integrated into pupils’ everyday learning. It is part of the teaching process used to develop pupils’ knowledge and understanding. Teachers use techniques that best suit the nature of the work being assessed and the purpose of the assessment. It may, for example, take the form of independent or group tasks, class discussion, homework, project work, small class or unit tests and teacher observation of pupil participation as an individual or as part of a group. In keeping with the rationale of the revised NI Curriculum, pupils are also encouraged to be fully involved in their learning, to review their work and set targets for improvement, thereby fostering self-responsibility and independence.

Assessment Of Learning

In most subjects pupils have summative or end of topic/unit tests, many of which are standardised across the whole year group. Additionally, pupils sit School Examinations over a week when they are off timetable at the end of January and again at the end of May. Copies of the school examination timetable indicating changes to Break, Lunch and end of School times are posted on the website in the Academic, Examination timetable area.

Skills


A School Report is issued twice yearly – a short mid-year Report and a more detailed Report at the end of June. This Report includes an evaluative reference to pupil progress in the each of the five Thinking Skills and Personal Capabilities. The table below indicates which subjects will report on each of the five skills in Year 8.

Parents’ Meetings, to which both pupils and parents are invited, take place for each year group and provide the opportunity for consulting with subject teachers and discussing progress. Parents of Year 8 pupils are invited to meet with subject teachers in the Autumn term. A letter with an accompanying interview card is sent out a few weeks prior to the Parent-Teacher Meeting and parents will be able to make appointments to speak with subject teachers. Year Teachers monitor the work of pupils and alert parents if any problems occur. Parents are welcome to contact Year Teachers AT ANY TIME to discuss matters relating to pupils’ progress.

Homework

Homework is an integral part of the assessment process and it is a very important learning experience for all pupils. It serves a number of purposes: • to encourage good personal organisation and study habits • to reinforce work that has been completed in class • to prepare for the next lesson • to inform you, as parents, what is being done in class and to encourage your involvement There will be occasions when pupils are involved in project work and will be required to complete short related tasks in the evening to ensure ongoing progress. Pupils may also be set a larger piece of work which teachers might ask to be completed over two or more homework sessions. This will require careful organisation on the part of the pupil who will need to learn to manage his/her time at home in order to ensure that all homeworks are completed on time.

Homework Planner

Each pupil is issued with a Homework Planner at the beginning of the year to keep a record of work set and to organise time at home completing homework. This Planner should be brought to all subject classes. In Years 8 – 10, a formal Homework Timetable is issued. Staff set work to this timetable and parents are asked to monitor that work is completed accordingly.

Parents of pupils in Years 8 -10 are encouraged to check and to initial the Homework Planner at least once a week. The Homework Planner also asks pupils to record, on a regular basis, their achievements and involvement in extra curricular activities, both inside and out of School. It also encourages them to record and reflect on their examination performances. This helps them in the completion of a Progress File Self Assessment. Within the Homework Planner there is Study Skills guidance providing tips on personal organisation, homework and revision skills. We encourage parents to work alongside pupils as they move through the guidance contained in this section in their Extended Collects. We value the establishment of good study habits in the junior years so that pupils can take increasing responsibility for their work later on.

Problem Solving

History

Being Creative

Technology

Self Management

Science

Managing Information

Home Economics

Working with Others

Learning for Life and Work

Assessment


The School Library

Our Library caters for all pupils and is open from 8.45 am to 4.30 pm every day except Friday, when it closes at 3.30 pm. All Year 8 pupils are introduced to the Library through their English classes. Pupils may borrow up to four books for a period of two weeks. During the first term we concentrate on establishing good reading habits. As the year pro-gresses we introduce the pupils, via other subjects in the curriculum, to the multitude of resources available. Our stock consists of over 9,000 items. Our Library has a fully computerised management system and pupils are able to make use of a second station for inquiry. We have multi-media computers and Internet access for pupils' use. Clus-ters of laptops are also available. Senior pupils carry out Library duties and a very popular Junior Book Club operates weekly during lunchtime. Please encourage your son or daughter to make full use of the facilities in our Library.

ICT Facilities

Pupils have access to ICT rooms for personal use during and after School. The opening times of the Computer-rooms for 2011 - 2012 were:

Monday 8.30 am – 8.45 am/Breaktime

Tuesday Breaktime/Senior Lunch 3.30 pm – 4.30 pm

Wednesday Breaktime 3.30 pm – 4.30 pm

Thursday Breaktime/Junior Lunch 3.30 pm – 4.30 pm

Friday 8.30 am – 8.45 am/ Breaktime

Arrangements for 2012 - 2013 will be confirmed at the beginning of term.

Music Tuition

Private music tuition is available in School: 1 violin, viola, cello and double bass 2 flute, oboe, clarinet, saxophone and bassoon 3 trumpet, cornet, French horn, trombone, baritone and tuba 4 piano 5 singing 6 guitar (acoustic and electric) 7 percussion theory Instrumental lessons are arranged through the Head of the Music Department who has overall charge of all Music lessons in School. Where more pupils apply for lessons than there are places available, prior attainment is taken into account. Lessons are given during class-time, rotating through different periods each week so that pupils do not repeatedly miss the same subject. Lessons are available in two categories: (i) shared (strings, woodwind, brass, percussion and guitar) (ii) individual (strings, woodwind, brass, percussion, guitar, piano and singing) Parents enter into a private contract with the tutor and fees are paid in advance directly to the tutor. The cost of a 30 minute individual lesson is between £13.00 - £20.00 (pupils having shared lessons split the fee). School provides a number of instruments for hire at a cost of £30 per annum. Parents enter into a contract for the hire of instruments through the Head of Music.

Extra Curricular Activities


Other Extra Curricular Activities

Book Club (Junior) Music: Chess Club Junior Choir Debating (Junior) Junior Brass Ensemble Drama Club (Junior) Junior Orchestra Geography Club Instrumental Ensemble/Folk Group Public Speaking (Junior) Science Club Languages Club Scripture Union

Mathematics Challenge (Junior) Technology Club Young Environmentalist Group


Curricular and Extra Curricular Sporting Activities

Athletics Gymnastics Show Jumping Badminton Girls’ Rugby Skiing Basketball Health Related Exercise Soccer Cricket Hockey Softball Cross Country Netball Swimming Dance Rounders Tennis Golf Rugby


We consider participation in clubs and societies an important part of each pupil’s development. Involvement in AT LEAST ONE activity helps pupils make new friends, develop new skills and generally become more self-confident. When pupils reach the stage of applying for courses in Higher Education or for employment, they find it extremely useful to be able to refer to experiences gained through involvement in extra-curricular activities. Pu-pils have the opportunity to take part in competitions, expeditions and extended visits away from home; and pu-pils of all ages represent School in a wide range of sports including athletics, cricket, hockey, netball, rugby, ski-ing, swimming and tennis.


Medical Information The school Nurse is Ruth Copes RGN. She provides a service of care and support for pupils who become ill, suffer injuries or have medical needs during the school day. She can be contacted through the Main Office (Tel: 028 92 662156) during school hours and is available to discuss any concerns you or your son/daughter may have. We would ask parents to note the following: • The Nurse will only deal with illness and injury occurring during the school day. • The Nurse will offer advice and support but is not a substitute for a consultation with your GP. • Please ensure that emergency contact numbers are updated regularly. • Department of Health guidelines advise that pupils with vomiting or diarrhoea should remain at home for 24

hours after the symptoms have ceased in order to prevent spread of infection. • Simple medication for minor ailments can be provided by the Nurse if parental consent has been given and the

Administration of Medicines Policy (below) is adhered to. • Pupils may carry Asthma inhalers, Diabetic medication or Epipens in their blazer pockets, if required. However,

a second inhaler and a further 3 Epipens must be left with the Nurse. The Epipens are placed strategically throughout School.

• Pupils are not permitted to carry other medication of any kind. This is in accordance with School’s Policy on Health and Safety.

• If your child requires medication during the school day, it must be left with the Nurse who will administer it. Clear instructions and written consent will be required. (see note 5 below) Thank you for your co-operation.

Administration of Medicines Policy

1 The Board of Governors and staff of Friends’ School, Lisburn wish to ensure that pupils with medication needs receive appropriate care and support at School. The Principal will accept responsibility in principle for the school Nurse giving or supervising pupils taking prescribed medication during the school day.

2 Parents are responsible for providing the Principal with comprehensive information regarding the pupil’s condi-tion and medication.

3 The school Nurse will only give a non prescribed medicine to a child as per school consent form. 4 Only reasonable quantities of medication should be supplied to School (e.g. a maximum of four weeks supply at

any one time). It is the parent’s responsibility to renew the medication when supplies are running low and to en-sure that the medication supplied is within its expiry date.

5 Each item of medication must be delivered to the Nurse, in normal circumstances, by the parent/pupil in a se-cure and labelled container as originally dispensed. Each item of medication must be clearly labelled with the following information:

The School will not accept items of medication in unlabelled containers.

6 Unless otherwise indicated, all medication to be administered in School will be kept in a locked medicine cabinet in the First Aid Room.

7 It is the responsibility of parents to notify School in writing if the pupil’s need for medication has ceased. Medi-cines which are no longer required or expire will be transferred to the school pharmacist.

8 For each pupil with long term or complex medication needs, the Principal will ensure that a Medication Plan and Protocol is drawn up, in conjunction with the appropriate health professionals.

9 Staff who volunteer to assist in the administration of medication, such as Epipens, will receive appropriate train-ing/guidance through arrangements made with the School Health Service.

10 School will make every effort to continue the administration of medication to a pupil whilst on trips away from the school premises, even if additional arrangements might be required. However, there may be occasions when it may not be possible to include a pupil on a school trip if appropriate supervision cannot be guaranteed.

Medical Information

Pupil’s Name Date of dispensing

Name of medication Storage requirements (if important) Dosage Expiry date

Frequency of administration Accompanied by written consent for administration, signed by the parent


Voluntary Contribution

Voluntary Grammar schools, like Friends’ School, are permitted to ask parents to pay a Voluntary Contribution to supplement the Department of Education Grant received by the School. The Department of Education Grant is not sufficient to meet the needs of the School. In 2011 - 2012 this shortfall exceeded £100,000 but this was made up through the generosity of our parents giving Voluntary Contributions. This school asks for Voluntary Contributions to enable it to: • maintain the range of subjects available to pupils and the quality of delivery of those subjects • offer a wide variety of extra curricular activities and sports • assist with the upkeep of facilities, such as our Sports Hall, that have been provided without the aid of govern-

ment funding The Voluntary Contribution is not compulsory and whether you pay or not is kept in strict confidence. Your support for the School would be much appreciated. The suggested Voluntary Contribution amount is £66 per term but we are happy to accept any sum that you wish to give. For administrative purposes the £66 is shown on the school bill. If you wish to contribute a lesser sum simply deduct the difference when paying the bill and our staff will make the necessary adjust-ment to your account. All Voluntary Contributions are much appreciated. Voluntary Contributions can be given under the Gift Aid Scheme.

• This allows the school to recover from HM Revenue and Customs an additional 25p for every pound that you pay as a Voluntary Contribution. If the suggested Voluntary Contribution of £66 per term is paid, an additional £49.50 can be redeemed by the school.

• Agreeing to Gift Aid does not involve you in any additional cost. Higher rate tax payers can claim tax relief in respect of the Voluntary Contribution under the Gift Aid scheme. We would encourage all parents, who have not already done so, to tick the Gift Aid agreement box on the form of Acceptance to allow us to benefit from this source of “free” income from HM Revenue and Customs.

During 2012 - 2013 the following fees and voluntary contributions will apply:

Voluntary Contribution

Captial Fee (compulsory) £140 per annum Parental Contribution (voluntary) £66 per term Materials Charge £30 per annum Locker Fee £5 per annum Lunch £2.40 per day Homework Diary £1.80 per annum


Uniform List and Appearance Code 2012 - 2013 Friends’ School’s Appearance Code is set within the context of the Pastoral Care Policy and the Behaviour Policy and Code. The Code has been established through appropriate consultation. It is expected that all pupils under-stand and accept the Appearance Code and therefore all are expected to adhere to the guidelines set down. Friends’ School appreciates the support and co-operation of parents in upholding our high standards regarding ap-pearance.

All items of School uniform may be purchased from: McCalls of Lisburn, Market Street, Lisburn.

Warnocks, Lisburn Road, Belfast.

Appearance Code (Girls) 1 Regulation blazers must be worn to and from School as well as throughout the day. Blazers may be removed in

class. 2 The white blouse should be tucked in, the top button fastened and ties worn neatly. 3 Coloured or patterned T-shirts should not be worn under blouses. 4 The summer blouse may be worn between the beginning of April and the end of October. 5 Green regulation tights must be worn with Winter uniform. Girls in KS3 and KS4 (Years 8 -12) may wear School

knee socks with Summer uniform. 6 Junior Skirt (Years 8 – 10). A plain green skirt that should be worn to the knee (no shorter than 1 inch/2.5 cm

above the knee). All stockists have been advised on appropriate skirt length and girls will be asked to replace skirts that do not meet this requirement.

7 Senior Skirt (Years 11 – 14). A green skirt with four inverted pleats. The skirt should completely cover the knee. All stockists have been advised on appropriate skirt length and girls will be asked to replace skirts that do not meet this requirement.

8 Cardigan. This may be worn by Senior girls (Years 11- 14) 9 Footwear. Shoes should be plain, undecorated and black leather. They should be flat-heeled and in traditional

school style. Canvas, suede, patent or “fashion” shoes are not permitted. Platform soles, wedges, kitten or other types of heeled shoes are not permitted. Boots are not permitted.

10 The only items of jewellery permitted are: one watch/one plain ring/one pair of small stud ear rings (gold, silver or pearl) worn in the ear lobes for girls only. No other piercings (e.g. nose stud/ring, lip or tongue are permitted)

11 Nail polish and make up (other than discreet foundation) are not permitted. 12 Hairstyles should be neat and tidy. Hair should not be conspicuously coloured. Hair accessories should be plain

and dark in colour. 13 Only School badges should be worn with the exception of one charity badge.

GIRLS UNIFORM Green Blazer with School badge Regulation green Junior Skirt (Years 8 – 10) Regulation green Senior Skirt (Years 11 – 14) School tie White Blouse (worn with tie) Summer Blouse (may be worn between 1 April and 30 October) Green Pullover (Years 8 – 14) Green Cardigan (optional for Years 11 – 14) Plain Black Shoes Regulation green knee length Socks Green Tights Scarf – striped or fleece Regulation Outdoor Coat

GIRLS GAMES UNIFORM * White School Polo Shirt Regulation Shorts White Ankle Socks Green Socks Mouthguard (compulsory for contact sports) Shinpads School Track Suit Top/Fleece School Track suit Bottoms Swimsuit

Uniform List (Girls)


Uniform List (Boys)

Appearance Code (Boys) 1 Regulation blazers must be worn to and from School as well as throughout the day. Blazers may be removed in

class. 2 The white shirt should be tucked in, the top button fastened and ties worn neatly. 3 Coloured or patterned T-shirts should not be worn under shirts 4 Footwear. Shoes should be plain, undecorated and black leather. Boots are not permitted. 5 The only items of jewellery permitted are: one watch and one plain ring. No piercings are permitted) 6 Hair should be above the collar. Pupils will be asked to change hairstyles that are considered to be

inappropriate. Boys should be clean-shaven. 7 Only School badges should be worn with the exception of one charity badge.

Outdoor Uniform and Games and PE (Boys and Girls) 1 Only regulation School coats are permissible for outdoor wear and it is strongly recommended that a School

coat is purchased. 2 Only the regulation scarf (either striped or green fleece) should be worn. 3 The School fleece may be worn underneath the School blazer when travelling to and from School. The School

fleece is not an alternative to the School blazer. 4 School hooded tops (hoodies) that are worn for particular sports are permissible for wear only during those

activities and not as part of regulation School uniform. No other hooded tops are acceptable for any sporting activity.

5 The correct Games kit should be worn in all Games and PE classes. Pupils should change back into full School uniform or full School tracksuit after matches or team practices. Pupils travelling to away sporting fixtures should wear full School uniform or full School tracksuit.

Pupils are required to wear uniform correctly throughout the School day; when travelling to and from School; and on all occasions when representing School. Pupils will be asked to replace any item of uniform that does not meet the requirements set down in the Appearance Code above. Flexibility will be shown in periods of extreme weather and pupils will be advised accordingly. All items of uniform should be clearly named. * It may be advisable not to purchase all items of Games uniform until after the Year 8 Induction Evening being held on Tuesday 12 June 2012 at 7.30 pm

BOYS UNIFORM Green Blazer with School badge Regulation charcoal grey school trousers School Tie White shirt Mid grey pullover Black Shoes Black or dark grey Socks Scarf – striped or fleece Regulation Outdoor Coat

BOYS GAMES UNIFORM* Red School Polo Shirt White PE Shorts White Ankle Socks 1 pair Sports Training Shoes School Rugby Jersey Navy Rugby Shorts Red Hockey/Rugby Socks Mouthguard (compulsory for contact sports) Shinpads Rugby Boots School Track Suit Top or School Fleece School Track suit Bottoms Plain Dark Swimming Shorts (Year 8 Only) Cricket Whites (Team Players Only)


Girls’ PE Uniform Junior School (Years 8 – 10)

√ * = either/or = Optional Tracksuit bottoms or top need never be worn indoors for any activity. Bottoms are used for outdoor activities – determined by weather conditions NB Socks must be white and of ankle length Appropriate trainers are determined by the activity

ALL ITEMS OF CLOTHING MUST BE NAMED

All team players are expected to have school tracksuit bottoms. Green Canterbury bottoms are also acceptable. Team kit – skort, top, hoodies, for those girls representing school, may be ordered from the Girls

PE staff.

Girls’ PE Uniform


Boys’ PE Uniform Junior School (Years 8 – 10)

Boys’ PE Uniform

* Teams players only = Optional Tracksuit bottoms or top are not to be worn indoors for any activity. Bottoms are used for outdoor activities – determined by weather conditions NB Socks must be white and of ankle length Appropriate trainers are determined by the activity

ALL ITEMS OF CLOTHING MUST BE NAMED

All team players are expected to have school tracksuit bottoms. Green Canterbury bottoms are also acceptable.

Team kit may be purchased later in the year from sports staff


Bus Timetables (am)

Morning Departures

No 51 Magheralin approx 7.50 am Drop off Moira 7.55 am Railway Station No 26 Dromara 7.45 am Ballycrune 8.05 am Legacurry 8.10 am Drop off School No 26a Ballynahinch 7.50 am Drop off School No 103 Crumlin 7.30 am

Glenavy 7.35 am Drop off Antrim Rd Filterbeds 7.46 am or Railway Station

Bus from Ballymacash 8.30 am Estate No 38 Banbridge 7.35 am

Dromore 7.50 am Drop off Railway Dromore 8.15 am Station

No 52 Aghalee 7.55 am Drop off Railway Maghaberry 8.10 am Station

Afternoon Departures

Moira, Magheralin 3.40 pm Pick up front of School

Ballycrune, 3.35 - 3.40 pm Pick up front of Legacurry School

Dromara 3.40 pm/3.50 pm/4.15 pm Pick up in Lisburn Bus Station

Ballynahinch 4.05 pm Pick up Lisburn Bus Station Ballymacash, Filterbeds,

Glenavy, Crumlin 3.35 - 3.45 pm Pick up Antrim Rd Hillsborough 3.40 pm (Direct) Pick up School Dromore, Banbridge 3.50 pm Pick up from Lisburn 4.30 pm Bus Station

4.50 pm

Aghalee, 4.00 pm Pick up from Lisburn Maghaberry Bus Station


Friends’ School Lisburn PTA Friends’ School Lisburn has a very active and successful Parent Teacher Association. The main aim of the PTA is to encourage parents and teachers to work together to provide a varied programme of fund-raising projects and social events for the benefit of all pupils. The PTA works within the context of Friends’ School as a friendly, caring and supportive community for pupils, their families and staff. We attempt to offer an attrac-tive calendar of social events that will provide opportunities for parents to come into School and to get to know staff and other parents in an informal setting. The programme of events varies from year to year but some events have become so popular that they have become part of our annual calendar. Some of the events which have taken place over the past two years are listed below:

Year 8 BBQ and Fun Evening Table Quiz Craft Fayre Prep. Film Show Fashion Show Coffee Morning Ladies’ Evening

With the money raised over the past two years, the PTA has contributed to the funding for two school mini-buses; a Play House for the Prep; Dan the Skipping Man; a Prep Disco; Sports equipment; Personal Develop-ment and Employability presentations; School trips. As a new parent, you are very welcome to join the PTA.


Parents and Year 8

Year 8 continues much of the work begun in primary school. However, the transition from primary to post primary school involves new daily routines and different study tasks for pupils. The active involvement of parents supports the efforts of School in helping pupils to adjust to their new environment and routines. We appreciate the support of parents especially in the following areas:

Study at Home

• by helping pupils to organise books and materials for each day • by providing a quiet place to study • by taking an interest in the presentation of homeworks • by checking and signing the Homework Planner at least once a week

Attendance and Punctuality

• by encouraging regular attendance • by contacting School early in the event of sustained absence • by ensuring pupils are in School by 8:45 am • by following procedures concerning return to School

Participation

• by encouraging involvement of pupils in extra curricular activities, either after School, lunchtime or on Saturday

Sense of Responsibility

• by supporting School in matters of appearance and behaviour

Contact with Teachers

• by taking advantage of Parents' Meetings to discuss progress with subject teachers • by consulting Year Teachers on matters of concern

Year 8 is a suitable opportunity to emphasise the partnership between the School, the pupil and his or her parents. The ethos of Friends’ School is based on a firm sense of community. We look forward to developing strong links and effective communication between School and home and to working together with you in the academic and personal interests of your son or daughter.

In Conclusion

year 8 booklet

Documents

foundation friends school

voluntary grammar school

small boarding school

religious society of

selfesteem of pupils

adult life year of entry

development of lisburn

supportive community