Ut Prosim
KING HENRY VIII SCHOOL
YSGOL BRENIN HARRI’R VIII
prospectus
Respecting tradition, embracing the future
“King Henry VIII School
has high expectations
of all its pupils
My name is Joshua. Before
I started school I was
worried about the amount
of homework I would have,
but excited to meet new
people. My first few weeks
were fun as I learnt lots of
new things. I have enjoyed
the year. It has been fun. I
like the variety of subjects.
My favourite subjects are
Art and PE. There are lots of
activities to do at break and
lunchtime, like Basketball
and Dodgeball. I have
made lots of new friends
since I joined King Henry.
My advice for new pupils is
to relax and enjoy it and try
not to be nervous.
Contents
Introduction........................................... 1
School Aims........................................... 2
School Mission Statement
School Aims
The School Day
The Students........................................... 3
Wellbeing and Attitude to Learning
Transition
Tutor Groups
Sixth Form
“
“
My name is Sophie. I felt
nervous before coming to
the school but I was also
excited. The first day was
fun because we got to do
lots of different activities.
This helped me settle in
and make new friends. This
year has been really great
because the teachers are
really helpful and you also
get to join new clubs. I have
joined the Hockey club after
school and I’m in the chorus
of the school production.
My favourite subjects are
French and IT. I’ve enjoyed
the year and made lots of
new friends. I am looking
forward to Year 8.
”
“
“
Respecting tradition,
embracing the future
Information about the school.........4 - 5
Pastoral Care
The Pastoral Team
Behaviour
Recognising Achievement
Home / School Contact
School Uniform
The Curriculum...............................6 - 10
Key Stage 3
Key Stage 4
Learning Support
The More Able & Talented
Basic Skills
Use of the Welsh Language
The Curriculum Cymreig
Religious Education
Personal and Social Education
Health & Safety
Health Education
Careers Education & Guidance
Homework Policy
Extra Curricular Activities................... 11
Drama
Music
Physical Education
Assessment.......................................... 12
Assessment & Reporting
Examinations
Reports
Parents Evening
Monitoring Pupils Progress
Essential School Policies..............13 - 16
Admission Arrangements
Anti-Bullying
Charging & Voluntary Contributions
Safe Guarding Policy
Complaints Procedure
School Records
Equal Opportunities
Racial Equality & Cultural Diversity
Education Welfare Officer
Free School Meals
Travel Arrangements
Attendance
Holidays
Authorised Absence
Unauthorised Absence
Rights & Responsibilities
“At King Henry VIII we
provide a great variety
of opportunities
Welcome to King Henry VIII School
Welcome to the school and the beginning of a partnership aimed at
achieving success for your child.
At King Henry VIII we provide a great variety of opportunities: academic,
social and cultural in order to challenge our young people to succeed. We
also believe that effective partnership between the school and parents
should underpin all that we do.
We are committed that every pupil should get the best possible opportunities
and education allowing them to succeed and flourish. Learning is at the
heart of all we do. Through high quality teaching we ensure every pupil’s
talents and abilities are catered for allowing them to excel academically but also develop skills that allow
them to become more independent in their learning and prepare them for life beyond school.
The school is recognised as having a positive ethos with a strong sense of purpose that maintains and promotes
a safe and caring attitude based on mutual respect between all members of the school community. We
endeavour to develop responsible young citizens that show respect for themselves, others and the local and
global community.
School days must be a period of enrichment and enjoyment. Pupils are encouraged to enjoy and participate
in a healthy balance of extra-curricular activities. The school offers many activities in:
•
•
•
•
•
Performing Arts (there are orchestras, choirs, bands and Drama clubs)
Sport (there is a vast array of mainstream and contemporary sport clubs)
Departmental enrichment opportunities (departments encourage participation in subject related trips,
clubs and lunchtime activities)
External competitions (including Rotary Public Speaking and other local and national competitions)
Charity work (pupils are encouraged to be responsible citizens and to contribute actively to the life of
their community)
I look forward to meeting you regularly at school events and parents’ meetings. Please remember that there
will always be a warm welcome for you to visit the school and we look forward to getting to know you and
your child during the next five to seven years.
Yours sincerely,
E. Lewis
Headteacher
1
”
“Respecting tradition,
embracing the future”
Mission
Statement
Our
school
mission
statement is “Respecting
tradition, embracing the
future” and we feel that
this reflects our recognition
and appreciation of the
traditions and values we
have built as an educational
institution in Abergavenny
since 1542, but at the same
time demonstrates that we
understand the need to
move forward and embrace
21st century teaching and
learning so that we can
provide our young people
with the skills required to
be successful citizens in a
rapidly changing world.
the school day
8.37....................................... Warning Bell
8.40 - 8.57................Registration
9.00 - 10.00..................... Period 1
10.00- 11.00..................... Period 2
11.00- 11.20................................ Break
11.20- 12.20..................... Period 3
12.20- 13.20..................... Period 4
13.20- 14.10................................Lunch
14.10- 15.10..................... Period 5
2
School aimS / Amcanion Ysgol
The aims of the school set out our aspirations to provide the best possible
opportunities and education for our young pupils preparing them for life
beyond school.
• To promote a culture of achievement, effort, success and excellence
in all aspects of school life.
• To provide a curriculum that is broad, balanced, differentiated and
relevant to meet the needs of every pupil and one that provides
each pupil with the skills required to be effective citizens in a modern,
technological society.
• To provide a learning environment that is disciplined, caring, tolerant
and fair to all and one in which academic, spiritual, moral and physical
development is fostered.
• To empower our pupils to become active participants in the learning
process with the right to be consulted, to participate in decisionmaking, and to be heard on all matters which concern them or have
an impact on their life in school.
• To provide a community that encourages a sense of commitment,
loyalty and belonging, encouraging the development of positive,
supportive relationships based on mutual respect and with a
sympathetic understanding of other individuals, races, religions and
ways of life.
• To develop a partnership with parents, schools and colleges,
employers and the wider community who make a positive contribution
to the development, success and achievements of our school and
help prepare our pupils for the opportunities, responsibilities and
experiences of adult life and lifelong learning.
• To be a self-evaluating school that seeks continuous improvement
through effective planning, promotes a climate that embraces
change, and is willing to respond to the needs of the society in which
we live.
• To develop pupils’ awareness and understanding of, and respect for,
the environments in which they live, and secure their commitment to
sustainable development at a personal, local, national and global
level.
“We are committed to provide
an outstanding education
for our pupils
Pupil Wellbeing and Attitude to Learning / Lles y Disgybl ac Agwedd Tuag at Ddygsu
We are committed to provide an outstanding education for our pupils. We have an inclusive ethos where our
curriculum is designed to meet the needs and aspirations of all learners.
Our school environment is a safe and caring community where there are excellent relationships between
adults and pupils and among pupils themselves. The pastoral care programme underpins the positive attitude
to learning which is prevalent throughout the school.
transition / pontio
Over the years close links have been developed between the primary feeder schools and ourselves which
help to ensure a smooth transition from Primary to Secondary education.
We have an Open Evening for all prospective parents and children, curriculum days and taster days in school
and an evening where the pupils meet their Form Tutor and the rest of their new Tutor group. Pupils will also
have been involved in Transition Projects often involving additional visits to the school. Tutor groups are created
following consultation with primary schools including information on academic progress.
Tutor Groups / Grwpiau Tiwtor
The Head of Year manages a team of form tutors who have daily contact with pupils. The form tutors monitor
the personal wellbeing, attendance, progress and achievements of all pupils in their group. Wherever possible
pupils will remain with the same form tutor and Head of Year throughout the five years from Year 7 to Year 11.
sixth form / Y Chweched Dosbarth
A significant proportion of our post 16 pupils at King Henry VIII choose to return to the Sixth Form to follow a
wide range of courses. These include AS and A2 level subjects alongside Applied A-Levels and L2 and L3 BTEC
qualifications. Post 16 pupils follow the Welsh Baccalaureate Qualification. This qualification provides our learners with the
opportunity to extend their skills and personal development. In addition they broaden their knowledge and
understanding of Wales and its place within Europe and the World, Citizenship and the World of Work, preparing
them thoroughly prior to embarking on the next stage of their learning post 19. This qualification is valued
highly by universities and employers.
A programme of guidance and support is in place in Year 11 to assist pupils and parents in making decisions
about their learning pathway post 16. The standard of Sixth Form provision is reflected in the increasing number
of pupils joining the Sixth Form from other schools. A separate Sixth Form prospectus is available on request.
3
”
“King Henry VIII School
has high expectations
of all its pupils
Home/ School Contact
Cyswllt Cartref/
Ysgol
Close links between school
and home are vital in our
shared responsibility for the
development of the whole
child. The school has a
home school agreement
that is signed by the
school, parents and pupils
that
demonstrates
our
commitment to partnership
working.
The
school
welcomes
contact from parents who
wish to discuss any aspects
of a pupil’s school life. To
ensure availability of the
appropriate member of staff
you are advised to telephone
for an appointment.
As well as informed day to
day contact, the school
communicates directly with
parents through regular half
termly newsletters. These are
designed to provide news
of events that have taken
place and given advance
notice of future events.
4
”
Pastoral Care / Gofal Bugeiliol
The welfare of pupils is a prime concern for all staff and the school has an
excellent reputation for being a caring community.
The Pastoral Team / Y Tîm Bugeiliol
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Headteacher
Deputy Headteacher
Assistant Headteachers
Heads of Years
Form Tutors
Pastoral Support Co-Ordinators
Education Welfare Officer
Behaviour / Ymddygiad
King Henry VIII School has high expectations of all its pupils in terms of
behaviour and conduct. If a pupil’s behaviour falls below these high
standards, there is a clear structure of consequences based on a card
system designed to support pupils in making the right behaviour choices.
However if a pupil makes poor behaviour choices then an appropriate
sanction is used. If you require more detail about our Behaviour Policy,
please contact the school.
Recognising and Rewarding Achievement /
Adnabod a Gwobrwyo Cyrhaeddiad
An important feature, central to the aims and philosophy of the school,
has been the establishment of a Rewards system for all aspects of
school life. Merits are awarded for academic achievement, effort,
extra-curricular activities, behaviour, attendance and community
participation. Certificates are awarded at the end of year to pupils
gaining a significant number of Merits. It is intended that all pupils should
be able to benefit through this system which recognises all levels and
areas of achievement.
“The welfare of pupils
is a prime concern
for all staff
School Uniform / Gwisg yr Ysgol
GIRLS UNIFORM
• Trutex Black blazer with embroidered gold logo
• Optional Trutex black jumper with embroidered gold logo
• Black tie with two thin gold stripes
• White shirt (short or long sleeves)
• Black Tailored trousers (formal) or black box-pleated skirts
• Plain black traditional shoes (trainers are not acceptable)
• Black socks or tights
• A dark plain outer coat (black, without logos)
boys UNIFORM
• Trutex Black blazer with embroidered gold logo
• Optional Trutex black jumper with embroidered gold logo
• Black tie with two thin gold stripes
• White shirt (short or long sleeves)
• Black Tailored trousers (formal)
• Plain black traditional shoes (trainers are not acceptable)
• Black socks
• A dark plain outer coat (black, without logos)
sportswear
GIRLS sportswear
• Navy Tracksuit bottoms
• Navy KHS Hoodie
• White polo shirt (short sleeves)
• White socks
• Training shoes
boys sportswear
• Blue & Amber reversible
Rugby jersey
• Navy Shorts
• Blue & Amber football socks
• Training shoes
•
•
•
•
•
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•
•
Navy shorts
White polo shirt (short sleeves)
White socks
Training shoes
• Swimming costume (not bikini)
• Optional White KHS Skin
White polo shirt (short sleeves)
White PE shorts
White socks
Training shoes
• Rugby/Soccer boots
• Swimming trunks
Jewellery
The only jewellery permitted
to be worn is a watch
and one pair of small stud
earrings. Necklaces and
bracelets are not allowed.
Facial
piercing
is
not
acceptable.
Hair
Please ensure that hair is
not coloured with bright
“unnatural” shades. Tram
lines / patterns cut into the
hair are not permitted.
Bags & equipment
Pupils need to come to
lessons properly equipped
(including exercise and text
books, homework planner,
pen, pencil, eraser, ruler
and calculator). All of these
need to be carried in a
rucksack type school bag
Please be aware that pupils
who fail to observe these
regulations regarding school
uniform will be removed
from lessons and parents/
guardians contacted
All items of clothing
need to be named
• Optional Navy/White KHS Skin
Leggings, Denim fabrics or tight fitting trousers
below the knee will not be accepted.
5
”
“All the pupils study the full
range of subjects demanded
by the National Curriculum
”
THE CURRICULUM / Y CWRICWLWM
All pupils study the full range of subjects demanded by the National Curriculum. These are divided into core
subjects and foundation subjects making up a fortnightly timetable of 50 lessons.
• There are three core subjects: English, Mathematics and Science.
• The remaining eight subjects are foundation subjects: History, Geography, Modern Languages, Art, Music,
Technology, Information Technology, Physical Education and Welsh.
• The three core subjects, Religious Education, Physical Education and Welsh are compulsory in Years 7 - 11.
• In addition, foundation subjects are compulsory in Years 7 - 9.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7, 8 & 9 / Blynyddoedd 7, 8 & 9)
The school offers a common Curriculum for all pupils:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Mathematics
English Language and Literature
Science - Physics, Chemistry and Biology
Welsh
Humanities - History, Geography and Religious Education
Performing Arts – Drama and Music
Art
Modern Languages - French, Spanish/German
Physical Education
Design Technology
Information Technology
Personal and Social Education
In Year 8 many pupils start to study an additional Modern Foreign Language
For teaching purposes pupils are either taught in mixed ability groups or in sets where appropriate.
Key Stage 4 (Years 10 & 11 / Blynyddoedd 10 & 11)
At Key Stage 4 pupils follow the core subjects of English, Mathematics and Science and selected choices
from the options available. The option choices are designed to ensure that all pupils undertake a broad and
relevant curriculum, which does not restrict future choices. Statutory lessons in Welsh, Religious Education,
Physical Education and Personal and Social Education are also provided. Provision is made for a range of
examination outcomes depending upon the ability and aptitudes of the pupil.
Meetings are arranged to assist parents and pupils in making decisions about option choices prior to pupil
entry into Year 10.
6
“We provide a curriculum
that is broad, balanced
and relevant”
LEARNING SUPPORT/ CEFNOGAETH DYSGU
The school has a policy for Additional Learning Needs (ALN) which is in line with the Education Act 1981, the
Education Reform Act 1988 and the Code of Practice 2001 on the identification and assessment of ALN.
Children have Additional Learning Needs when they find it harder to learn than other children of a similar age
or if they learn in a different way. They may have difficulties which fall into one or more categories:
• communication and interaction (speech, language and communication difficulties)
• cognition and learning (learning difficulties which range from moderate to profound)
• behavioural, emotional and social (this includes a range of different behaviour including
e.g. hyperactivity, lacking in concentration and social skills)
• sensory, physical or medical (includes difficulties related to impaired vision or hearing and other physical
difficulties).
In an effort to identify children as early as possible the school follows the code of practice. All teachers are
teachers of pupils with Additional Learning Needs and are responsible for meeting the needs of these pupils
in the classroom setting. Teachers are expected to use relevant strategies, resources and differentiation at
this stage. For pupils who have on-going needs and require more intensive input, the school has adopted a
graduated response which allows it to provide support based on individual need.
Examples of our more specific types of approach are:
• teaching children in small groups withdrawn from the main curriculum;
• access to specialist learning software
• specifically designed programmes to meet a range of needs (literacy, communication and behaviour)
• additional adult support in the classroom.
Very occasionally a child will have a significantly greater difficulty in learning than the majority of his or her
peers. In these cases, it may be necessary to make referrals to other agencies including the Education and
Child Psychology service. Specialist staff from the LA may provide input on a regular on-going basis.
If it is considered appropriate, at the next stage, the school will ask the LA to make a full assessment of the
child’s needs. The LA will then consider issuing a statement which will set out the help the child should have.
The Additional Learning Needs Coordinator (ALNCO) liaises with staff, co-ordinates ALN resources, assessments
and interventions and maintains a register of all children with ALN in the school. In addition they liaise with
the Educational Psychology Service and other outside agencies and has management responsibility for issues
regarding ALN within the school. The ALNCO is also Head of Access and Inclusion. They also manage the
Learning Support staff team and co-ordinates the day-to-day running of the Learning Support Interventions.
The ALNCO has responsibility for Individual Education Plans for pupils with Additional Learning Needs and
supporting subject teachers. We also have a team of Learning Support Assistants (LSAs) who work with pupils
who need extra support in class. The Governing Body has a link governor with responsibility for pupils with ALN.
7
”
“Respecting tradition,
embracing the future”
The school will ensure that any child with ALN plays a full part in school life. They will have the same rights to
the full range of curriculum opportunities enjoyed by their peers.
The school recognises that parents have an active part to play in their child’s education and will be consulted
at every stage should it be considered that their child has Additional Learning Needs. The school will work with
parents and inform them of their child’s progress, whilst listening to their concerns.
More Able & Talented / Mwy Abl a Thalentog
More Able & Talented (MAT) pupils are well catered for at King Henry VIII School. Strong identification procedures
are in place to identify MAT pupils in each subject area. Pupils who are identified are added to a MAT register by
the MAT co-ordinator. The register is carefully monitored and extended tasks and extra-curricular opportunities
are offered to these pupils whenever possible.
Basic Skills/ Sgiliau Sylfaenol
At King Henry VIII School, we recognise every child’s right to be taught the basic skills of literacy and numeracy.
These skills are essential for a child to flourish in today’s society.
We endeavour to give all pupils every opportunity to improve basic skills in literacy and numeracy in order to
achieve their full potential across all curriculum areas.
Use of the Welsh Language / Defnydd o’r Iaith Gymraeg
At the school, Welsh is promoted in the following ways:
• Welsh is taught to all pupils in Years 7 – 11. At Key Stage 4 pupils have the option and are encouraged to
study full course GCSE or equivalent.
• Pupils are encouraged to read in Welsh in assemblies.
• An annual Eisteddfod is held. All pupils are encouraged to participate and are exposed to Welsh cultural
tradition.
• A range of extra-curricular activities are organised including residential visits to the Welsh Language Centre
at Glanllyn. Pupils are encouraged to use their language skills both inside and outside the classroom.
The Curriculum Cymreig / Y Cwricwlwm Cymreig
The Curriculum Cymreig gives pupils a sense of place and heritage based on an understanding of Welsh
history, geography, languages, industry and traditions. This permeates all aspects of school life at King Henry
VIII School and encourages an active participation in extra-curricular activities through music, drama, sport
and technology.
8
“As a school we are
committed to the academic
progress of all our pupils
Religious Education and Collective Worship /
Addysg Grefyddol ac Addoli ar y cyd
Religious Education is a compulsory element within the Curriculum studied
from Years 7-13. Pupils are given an opportunity to study aspects of the
world’s major religions, which acknowledge the place of Christianity
as the principle faith in this country. Pupils are encouraged to develop
their own responses to the meaning and purpose of our existence and
begin to address issues around morality and spirituality.
Assemblies are held regularly for all year groups and pupils are
encouraged to take part in leading the worship. Assemblies are nondenominational and reflect the broadly Christian ethos of the school. A
themed assembly and ‘Thought for the Week’ programme is in place
and during the year covers a range of moral issues.
Withdrawal from Religious Education or Assemblies is possible upon
written request to the Head of Year.
Personal and Social Education /
Addysg Bersonol a Chymdeithasol
As a school we are committed to the academic progress of all our
pupils. The aims of Personal and Social Education are:•
•
•
•
To develop learners’ self-esteem and personal responsibility
To promote self-respect, respect for others and for diversity
To inspire learners to lead healthy and fulfilled lives
To empower learners to participate in their communities as active
citizens and to develop a global perspective
• To prepare learners for the challenges, choices and responsibilities
of work and employment and lifelong learning
The PSE programme at all Key Stages is delivered by a dedicated team
of staff and the programme is reinforced through visits and talks from
outside agencies.
Health and Safety /
Iechyd a Diogelwch
The school has a Health
and Safety Officer who
is
responsible
to
the
Headteacher for making
the school a safe place to
work and study.
A number of staff members
have been trained to
administer first aid. They are
available during morning
break and lunchtime for
routine
problems
and
at all times in cases of
emergencies.
When children are taken
ill the school may deem
it necessary to contact
parents to arrange for the
child to be collected and
taken home.
Medical emergencies will
be dealt with appropriately
and parents contacted.
Please inform the school
of any change in contact
details.
Visitors are required to
report to the main reception
where they ‘sign in’ and are
issued with visitor badges.
Parents, who transport their
pupils to school by car, are
expected to drop them off
in the specially designated
and sign posted ‘safe zone’,
in the lower car park.
9
”
“In King Henry VIII School
we believe that all pupils
have equal entitlement
”
Health Education / Addysg Iechyd
Health Education is an important part of the PSE programme. It includes healthy eating, exercise, relationships,
substance misuse and sexual health education. The emphasis is on promoting informed choices with due
regard to moral considerations and the value of family life.
In line with the 1996 Education Act parents have the right to withdraw their children from all or part of the sex
education offered. If parents feel apprehensive about any area of the PSE programme they should contact
the school for an appointment to discuss it.
Careers Education and Guidance / Addysg a Chyngor Gyrfaoedd
In King Henry School we believe that all pupils have an equal entitlement to a careers and work related
programme that will provide them with an understanding of the world of work, help them explore career
options and support them to make informed decisions about their future.
Careers education is delivered through off timetabled activities and presentations. Personal and group
interviews are arranged for all pupils in years 9, 10, 11, 12 and 13 to assist with option choices and planning
their personal career pathways. Employer mentoring is offered to selected groups of year 10 and 11 pupils and
all pupils are involved in entrepreneurial activities. Work experience is arranged for Year 10 and Year 12 pupils
to support career and further or higher education choices.
Homework Policy / Polisi Gwaith Cartref
Homework is a vital part of the learning process. It is valuable in helping pupils learn how to consolidate
knowledge and develop independent learning skills. It is school policy that homework is set regularly. It may
be written work, reading, research or revision and the amount will vary with each individual year group.
Parental support in ensuring that time and facilities for study are available is essential and parents are reminded
that it is their responsibility to ensure that pupils establish a regular work pattern. All pupils are issued with a
homework planner and parents are asked to check and sign this on a weekly basis.
10
“School days must be a
period of enrichment
and enjoyment
Extra-Curricular Activities/ Gweithgareddau Allgyrsiol
School days must be a period of enrichment and enjoyment. Pupils are encouraged to enjoy and participate
in a healthy balance of extra-curricular activities. The School has a long history of achievement in Drama,
Music and Physical Education and Sport.
Drama / Drama
A range of genre drama productions have a long tradition of excellence. They always involve large numbers
of pupils and staff and have demonstrated a remarkable dramatic range. Recent productions have included
Carousel and Phantom of the Opera.
Music / Cerddoriaeth
The school has a thriving musical life and well established reputation for musical achievement. As well as
providing a stimulating and creative environment for all pupils in the classroom there are many pupils taking
advantage of the instrument tuition department provided by the Music Support Service. The department is
therefore a hive of activity with pupils learning most types of instruments including woodwind, strings, guitar, harp
and singing. The school sees the performing arts as an important and exciting part of all pupils’ education.
Physical Education / Addysg Gorfforol
The school has a very successful Physical Education Department. There are excellent facilities and in recent years
many pupils have achieved distinguished records at District, County and National level. Facilities include:
• Large sports hall
• Swimming pool
• Floodlit Astro turf
• Grass pitches
• Multi Use Games Area (MUGA)
As well as a wide range of timetabled sports activities, lunchtime and after school clubs ensure that enthusiastic
pupils receive further coaching. There are plenty of opportunities for competitive sport via inter-house, inter-school
competitions and county events.
Links with local sports associations and feeder primaries are extremely good.
11
”
“All aspects of
academic performance
are assessed
”
Assessment / Asesu
Assessment and Reporting / Asesu ac Adroddiadau
Assessment in the school is related to the assessment of the National Curriculum and the Literacy and Numeracy
Framework. All aspects of a pupil’s academic and attitude to learning performance are assessed.
Examinations / Arholiadau
Pupils’ progress is monitored by continuous assessment with formal assessment taking place during the year.
External examinations take place in the Spring and Summer Terms.
Reports / Adroddiadau
Parents receive an interim progress and full written report each academic year. Dates for the issue of individual
year group reports are published in the school calendar which is distributed to parents at the beginning of the
academic year.
Parents’ Evenings / Noson Rieni
Parents’ Evenings are vital to the assessment process as they provide feedback to parents about the progress
of their children. These evenings are also critical in building the partnership between staff and parents. The
interchange of information involved is of mutual benefit in understanding the educational needs of pupils. Letters providing the necessary details are sent home to parents with their children prior to the evening. The
pupils are given appointment cards to arrange mutually convenient times for interviews.
Monitoring Pupil Progress / Monitro Datblygiad Disgyblion
At Key Stage 3, 4 and 5 all departments are required to assess pupils’ progress which is recorded on a centralised
system on a regular basis.
This assessment data is scrutinised by Heads of Year, Heads of Department and Senior Leadership and
consequently, pupils may move class sets accordingly.
12
“King Henry VIII School
will not tolerate bullying
of any type
ESSENTIAL SCHOOL POLICIES / Polisiau Ysgol Anghenrheidiol
Admission Arrangements/Trefniadau Derbyn
Pupils are admitted to the school in natural progression from local Primary Schools. Families that move into the
catchment area are requested to contact the school for an appointment with a Senior Member of Staff.
The Local Authority deals with the admission of pupils.
Anti-Bullying / Gwrth-Fwlio
King Henry VIII School will not tolerate bullying of any type. As a result the school has an Anti-Bullying policy as
required by the Local Authority. It is imperative that pupils inform staff immediately of any act of bullying so the
school can address the problem swiftly.
Charging and Voluntary Contributions / Taliadau a Chyfraniadau Gwirfoddol
The school runs an extensive programme of trips and activities. The school will sometimes need to charge for
these activities and our policy on charging for school activities is available on request.
Support is available within school from a charitable trust fund for families that have difficulty in meeting the
cost of trips or extra tuition.
Safe Guarding Policy / Polisi Amddiffyn a Diogelu Plant
The school has a Safe Guarding Policy and any concerns regarding the care of a child may be referred to
Social Services. The School has a Child Protection Officer.
Complaints Procedure / Gweithdrefn Cwynion
The school has a complaints policy and procedure, a copy of which is available on request. Parents wishing to
express a concern should contact the Head of Year in the first instance who will make every effort to resolve
the matter.
13
”
“Respecting tradition,
embracing the future”
School Records / Recordiau Ysgol
Any parent who wishes to see their child’s record should contact the appropriate Assistant Headteacher.
A copy of the record can be obtained, although the school may make a nominal charge. The school will
normally need seven days’ notice to produce the records.
Equal Opportunities / Cyfleoedd Cyfartal
King Henry VIII School endorses the Local Authority’s Equal Opportunities and Race Equality Policy. We intend
to actively promote equal opportunities in all aspects of school life.
Racial Equality and Cultural Diversity / Cydraddoldeb Hil ac Amrywiaeth Diwylliannol
King Henry VIII School fully endorses its duties under the Equality Act 2010. As a result we aim to:
• Promote a positive, supportive ethos in which all pupils and staff feel that they are valued, their needs are
met and they are able to achieve their full potential.
• Respect and value differences between people, promote good relations between different groups within
the school and wider community and prepare all pupils for life in a diverse society.
• Ensure equality is an integral part of planning and decision making across all areas of the school.
• Work in partnership with parents and the wider community to tackle and eliminate all discrimination, making
the school a place where everyone feels safe, welcome and valued.
Education Welfare Officer / Swyddog Presenoldeb a Lles
An Education Welfare Officer works with the school who, in addition to monitoring attendance, at the request of the Senior Leadership Team and Heads of Year, liaises with parents over matters of concern arising
at school.
Free School Meals / Prydiau Ysgol am Ddim
Where families are entitled to free school meals, applications should be made to the Local Authority. Pupils on
free school meals have access to additional resources such as revision guides and mentors where appropriate
to support them with their learning.
Travel Arrangements / Trefniadau Cludiant
Pupils aged 11-16 living more than two miles from school are entitled to free travel, usually on special contract buses. 14
“The pupil can expect to be
treated as an equal member
of the school community
ATTENDANCE / PRESENOLDEB
When a child is absent, parents are asked to contact the school on the first day of absence. A dedicated
telephone line and answer phone service is available for this purpose. Telephone number 01873 735345
Holidays / Gwyliau
In order for all pupils to achieve success and to reach their potential, it is vital for all pupils to have excellent school
attendance. In order to ensure consistency throughout the Authority, and to follow Monmouthshire County Council’s
policy we will not be authorising any absences relating to holidays other than for exceptional circumstances.
Authorised Absence / Absenoldebau
If your child has an appointment to see the dentist, doctor or hospital, please notify the school in advance, with
an appointment card if possible. The reason for absence will be recorded. It would be preferable if parents
would make such appointments out of school hours. Marks will be entered by the appropriate member of staff
when pupils participate in courses (educational or sporting).
Other Authorised Absences / Absenoldeb â Chaniatâd
Your child will be marked absent but the reason for absence will be noted if the following circumstances occur:
• Illness
• Bereavement of a close member of the family
• If permission for absence has been granted by the Headteacher
• Medical/dental appointments
Unauthorised Absence / Absenoldeb Heb Ganiatâd
The School cannot accept any of the excuses listed below:
• No uniform
• Slept late
• Missed bus
• Looking after house
• Looking after family
• Shopping or similar reasons.
In law only the school can authorise absence. The school is not obliged to accept a parent’s explanation
of absence if the reason advanced is not valid. Parentally condoned unjustified absence will be classified
as unauthorised. Parents who fail to send their children to school or condone absence for unacceptable
reasons risk prosecution.
15
”
“It is vital for all pupils
to have excellent
school attendance
”
rights & responsibilities / Hawliau a Chyfrifoldebau
Pupils / Disgyblion
RIGHTS - The pupil
• can expect high quality teaching.
• can expect to be treated as an equal member of the school community.
• has the right to be heard.
RESPONSIBILITIES - The pupil
• has to attend school to learn.
• has to attend school to appreciate the discipline of reliability.
• has to realise that 100% is the only acceptable level of attendance unless there is a valid reason for
missing school.
Parents or Guardians / Rhieni neu Warcheidwaid
Parents or guardians are responsible for sending their children to school and for their children’s arrival in
school.
RIGHTS - Parents/Guardians
• have the right to expect the best education for their children.
• can expect that the school will inform them of their child’s performance.
RESPONSIBILITIES - Parents or guardians
• should inform the school immediately of any absence, giving reasons.
• ensure their children attend school on time.
• should provide a written letter outlining the reason for their child’s absence on their return to school.
School / Ysgol
The school environment should help to prepare the pupil for life. As such King Henry VIII School sets the best
example for community life, including attendance.
RIGHTS - The school
• expects pupils to attend for 100% of the school year.
• expects pupils to arrive on time.
• expects that pupils will endeavour to learn and behave in an appropriate way.
RESPONSIBILITIES - The school
• endeavours to educate every child to the maximum of his/her ability.
• endeavours to administer discipline in a firm but fair manner.
• endeavours to recognise the equality and importance of every pupil.
16
KING HENRY VIII SCHOOL
YSGOL BRENIN HARRI’R VIII
Old Hereford Road | Abergavenny | Monmouthshire | NP7 6EP
Hen Heol Henffordd | Y Fenni | Sir Fynwy | NP7 6EP
Tel/Ffôn: 01873 735373 | Email/Ebost: [email protected]
Fax/Ffacs: 01873 735305 | Upper School Fax/Ffacs Ysgol Uchaf: 01873 735354
www.kinghenryviiischool.org.uk
Photographs by Tim Evans - www.thirty31photography.co.uk