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4/201 5 Mossbourne Victoria Park Academy
Year 7 Induction Booklet 2014-2015
Contents page
Page
Organisation
Welcome Letter from Mr Puttock, Head of Year 7
2
The Academy Day
4
Academic Calendar 2014-2015
5
Key Dates and Academy Closure Days
5
Arrangements for the Beginning of Term
6
Student Planners, Swipe Cards and Equipment
6
Academy Meals
8
Pastoral System and Communications
9
Academy Rules and Procedures
9
Medical Needs
12
Languages
13
Charging and Remission Policy
13
Uniform
14
Parent Governors
15
Curriculum Structure
16
Curriculum Support
17
Sex Education
18
Homework
18
Internal Assessment and Examinations
18
Safeguarding and Child Protection
20
Contact Names
21
Pastoral and
Communications
Curriculum
1
Mossbourne Victoria Park Academy
Year 7 Induction Booklet 2014-2015
July 2014
Dear Parent/Carer of new Year 7 students,
Welcome to you all.
Your son/daughter is about to embark upon an important new stage of their
education and although they may be excited about this I know this can also be an
anxious time for both them and you the parents. I hope you will be reassured that, in
a short space of time, all the anxieties you and your child have about the big step
from primary to secondary school will be eased considerably by the various talks,
guidance, and information that you will receive during and after the initial transition
period, and throughout Year 7.
Behaviour
The Academy has high expectations of all students and this includes having high
expectations of students’ behaviour. The Academy is very strict and our emphasis on
good discipline ensures that a calm learning environment is created in which every
student can learn and feel safe. Students are expected to be respectful of one
another and the Academy building; they will be expected to raise their hands and not
call out; they will be expected to move around the Academy quietly and calmly and,
most importantly of all, no student will ever argue with a member of staff or
refuse to follow the instruction of a member of staff.
Form Organisation and Monitoring
There are five Tutor Groups in Year 7 and each is led by a Form Tutor, who will be
responsible for guiding your child through the many procedures of the Academy day.
He or she will also monitor how well your son/daughter is coping with schoolwork,
homework and all other aspects of school life. Please contact the Form Tutor should
you have any concerns and they will contact you whenever the need arises. You will
have an opportunity to meet with your child’s Form Tutor on Wednesday, 8th October
2014.
I will coordinate the work of the five tutors and have overall responsibility for the
progress and behaviour of the year group. I will also allocate the students to their
Tutor Groups at the beginning of the year according to ability ranges, personalities,
behavioural traits and recommendations made by the primary schools.
School Planner
I cannot emphasise enough the importance of the proper use of the Academy
planner as an instrument of communication between yourselves, the Academy and
your child. Please be vigilant on a daily basis to check homework is being done, and
to note comments from staff, both positive and negative. Please also sign your child’s
planner on a weekly basis in the appropriate section. Students should treat the
planner as their most important piece of equipment and as such keep it organised,
neat, free from graffiti and on their person at all times when in the Academy.
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Mossbourne Victoria Park Academy
Year 7 Induction Booklet 2014-2015
Property
One of the most common and distressing problems that arise in the first weeks is the
mislaying of possessions by new students. Please encourage your son/daughter to
be responsible for their possessions, and ensure every possession, including
clothing, is named. Never allow expensive pen sets, watches or any item that has
sentimental value to be brought into the Academy. The Academy will not take
responsibility for any students’ personal property.
It is strictly forbidden to bring mobile phones, offensive weapons, illicit
substances, tippex, valuables, money, fireworks, radios, personal electronic
equipment, chewing gum or laser pens onto the premises. Money should
NEVER be brought onto site unless your child has been specifically asked by a
member of staff to do so. The member of staff will make a note in your child’s planner
or send home a letter or text should they need to bring any money onto the premises.
Inclusion
I would like to assure all parents that no matter whether I am teaching, rewarding a
child for good work, or dealing with a child over a discipline matter, each child will
quickly realise that they are treated as an individual, with individual talents and
needs, and will be treated accordingly.
The transition team at the Academy contact all the feeder primary schools, and carry
out a thorough job of obtaining information regarding your son/daughter’s abilities,
talents, difficulties and needs. Please do not hesitate to contact the Academy should
you have any worries or to provide any further background information which you
think would be necessary for teachers to know, in dealing with your son/daughter e.g.
reoccurring illnesses, family break-up etc. These matters are treated with
confidentiality, but are important in understanding and treating individuals
considerately and fairly.
Please, never hesitate to contact me at the Academy. If I am teaching or in meetings
I will always phone back at the earliest opportunity or deal with the message you
leave. If something at the Academy is causing anxiety, then it needs to be dealt with
so that your child feels safe and happy, and thereby able to fulfil their true potential.
I look forward to meeting your son/daughter for the first time on Monday, 8th
September 2014 and hope your child will have every success here at Mossbourne
Victoria Park Academy.
Yours faithfully,
Mr O Puttock
Head of Year 7
3
Mossbourne Victoria Park Academy
Year 7 Induction Booklet 2014-2015
THE ACADEMY DAY
11
10
9
8
7
12 1
2
3
4
6
The Academy site will be open to students from 7.45 am. Students should
be on the Academy site by 8.15am, at the latest.
5
Assemblies will take place during registration time, once a week.
There is no movement time written into the timetable but students will be expected to
arrive promptly from their last lesson and that is best judged by the receiving teacher
who will know from which area of the Academy the students have travelled.
Monday: The Academy day will end at 15.25
Tuesday - Friday: The Academy day will end at 16.20
Time
Monday
Tuesday-Friday
8.20 - 8.40
Registration
Registration
8.40 - 9.35
Period 1: Lesson
Period 1: Lesson
9.35 - 10.30
Period 2: Lesson
Period 2: Lesson
10.30 - 10.55
BREAK
BREAK
10.55 - 11.50
Period 3: Lesson
Period 3: Lesson
11.50 - 12.45
Period 4: Lesson
Period 4: Lesson
12.45 - 13.35
Period 5: LUNCH
Period 5: LUNCH
13.35 - 14.30
Period 6: Lesson
Period 6: Lesson
14.30 - 15.25
Period 7: Prep
Period 7: Prep
15.25 – 16.20
End of the Academy Day
Period 8: Prep
16.20
End of the Academy Day
4
Mossbourne Victoria Park Academy
Year 7 Induction Booklet 2014-2015
ACADEMIC CALENDAR 2014 - 2015
Autumn Term 2014
Start
Half Term
Finish
Monday 8
September 2014
Monday 27 October to Friday Thursday 18
31 October 2014
December 2014
Spring Term 2015
Start
Half Term
Finish
Monday 5 January
2015
Monday 16 February to
Friday 20 February 2015
Friday 27 March 2015
Summer Term 2015
Start
Monday 13 April
2015
Half Term
Finish
Monday 25 May to Friday 29 Friday 17 July 2015
May 2015
KEY DATES AND ACADEMY CLOSURE DAYS
INSET Days (Staff Training) Academy closed to all students.
Wednesday 11 February 2015
Thursday 12 February 2015
Friday 13 February 2015
Parents’ Evenings
All students must attend, in full uniform, accompanied by a parent/carer or responsible adult.
Thursday 15 January 2015
Tuesday 14 July 2015
Transition Discussion Day
All students must attend, in full uniform, accompanied by a parent/carer or responsible adult.
Wednesday 8 October 2014
Bank Holidays
Monday 4 May 2015
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Mossbourne Victoria Park Academy
Year 7 Induction Booklet 2014-2015
ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE BEGINNING OF TERM
Monday 8th September 2014
Students should arrive promptly by 08.10 and will be directed by Academy staff upon
arrival. No parents will be allowed on site. There will be an assembly as soon as
students have been assigned to Tutor Groups. There will be a set programme of
activities for the day, which will include familiarisation with the building, understanding
the timetable and important Academy policies. Students will be dismissed at 15.25.
Tuesday 9th September 2014
All students should arrive promptly by 08.15 and wait in the playground area.
Students will continue with transition activities in the morning and will follow their
normal timetable for the afternoon. Dismissal will be at 16.20. From Wednesday 10th
September 2014 students will follow their normal timetable.
STUDENT PLANNERS, SWIPE CARDS AND EQUIPMENT
All students are issued with a Student Planner and Swipe Card at
the beginning of the academic year. The planner is the first point of
liaison between home and the Academy. The planner and a swipe
card will be supplied free of charge. If a student loses their planner
or swipe card, they must be replaced at a cost of £5 each. A
temporary planner sheet will be issued daily until the planner is replaced. Students
must report the loss of a planner or swipe card to their Head of Year who will
authorise the purchase of replacements.
The Student Planner
The Planner will contain:




Swipe card
Student timetable
ICT Good Practice Policy
Advice concerning study skills




Uniform Expectations
Word banks
Academy Code of Conduct
Advice concerning Bullying
The Planner should be used by students and parents/carers for:
 The recording of all homework set by teachers with a completion date in the
margin
 The recording of comments, messages or information written by parents to
staff
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Mossbourne Victoria Park Academy
Year 7 Induction Booklet 2014-2015
The Planner will be used by Staff to:





Award Merit marks
Make positive comments
Inform parents of unsatisfactory behaviour
Notify parents of the time, date and duration of detentions set
Notify parents of any changes to the Academy day
Students are expected to:
 Bring the planner & swipe card to the Academy every day
 Take care of the planner & swipe card
 Show the planner & swipe card, which must be signed by their parent/ carer,
to their Form Tutor each week
 Ensure that parents/ carers are informed immediately of any detentions set
 Ensure that parents/ carers are shown any information communicated via the
planner
The Academy requires Parents/ Carers to:





Check that all homework details are recorded on a weekly basis
Monitor the completion of homework
Ensure that your child informs you of any detentions set
Sign the planner weekly to confirm the completion of homework
Inform the Form Tutor immediately, through the planner or by phone, if there is
a serious concern, problem with homework or other issues
Equipment
All students are expected to bring their equipment to the Academy each day.
Students must bring the following items:







Student Planner
Ruler - marked in centimetres
Eraser
Pencil
Scientific calculator
Reading book
A set of headphones





Pencil case
2 black pens
Sharpener
Colouring pencils
Mathematical instrumentsprotractor, set square, pair of
compasses
P.E. kits must be brought on the days when P.E. is timetabled and for any clubs or
extra-curricular activities. The P.E. kit must be packed in a separate bag, for example
a plastic carrier bag, to avoid damage to books etc. Please ensure all items are
labelled.
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Mossbourne Victoria Park Academy
Year 7 Induction Booklet 2014-2015
ACADEMY MEALS
The Caterers
The catering service offered by the Academy has an emphasis on healthy options
and home cooking, using fresh and seasonal ingredients. There will be a daily menu
with a meat or fish dish and vegetarian dish as well as a large range of healthy snack
options.
Procedures
Students will not be allowed off the Academy site at all throughout the day so will
have to use the catering services provided or bring in a packed lunch.
The drinks that can be purchased will be water based drinks, fruit juices and milk
drinks. Please note that no sugary drinks will be served nor should any
cans/bottles of sugary, fizzy drinks be brought to the Academy. Chewing gum,
sweets, chocolate, fast food and unhealthy snacks are not allowed on the
Academy site.
The service offered will run as a cashless biometric catering service. All parents will
receive information with this booklet regarding how to set up your child’s account.
Please contact the Finance Manager at the Academy if you have any queries. Those
students who are entitled to free Academy meals will need to contact their Local
Education Authority to apply for this. Alternatively, an application form can be
downloaded from the Learning Trust website.
Other services
There will be a mid-morning break service and a pre-Academy service (breakfast
club).
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Mossbournne Victoria Park Academy
Year 7 Inducction Booklet 2014-2015
2
PASTOR
RAL SYSTE
EM AND COMMUNI
C
CATIONS
There will
w be five Tutor Gro
oups in Yea
ar 7. Eachh Tutor Group will
meet on
nce, everyy day, for registrattion purpooses and for the
dissemin
nation of information. The Tu
utor is th
he first point
p
of
contact for paren
nts on day to day and mino r issues and
a
the
Student Planner ffacilitates this kind of commuunication between
b
home an
nd the Aca
ademy.
The He
ead of Yea
ar 7, Mr Pu
uttock, will coordinate
e the work
k of the fivee tutors an
nd Tutor
Groupss. Mr Putto
ock has ov
verall resp onsibility for
f the progress andd behaviour of the
year grroup. More
e serious is
ssues will be dealt with
w by Mr Puttock annd parents
s should
commu
unicate witth him on
n matters of major concern. Mr M Tooothe is th
he Vice
Principal, and ovversees the
e work of M
Mr Puttock
k and is in charge off Pastoral Care in
the who
ole Academ
my.
It is the
e Academyy's intention
n that from
m Year 8, th
he Head of Year will progress with
w the
year group into the next academicc year and
d beyond,, to ensurre continu
uity and
accuratte assessm
ment of stu
udent perfo
ormance.
The He
ead of Yea
ar and Tutors will co
ommunica
ate with pa
arents on a regular basis
b
in
relation
n to academ
mic progre
ess, behaviiour, attend
dance and punctualitty.
A Trustees' & Prrincipal's Newsletter
N
will be se
ent to each
h parent att the end of each
o keep pare
ents inform
med of new
ws and events at the Academy.
A
term to
RES
ACADE
EMY RULE
ES AND PROCEDU
P
A com
mprehensivve policy documen
nt outlinin
ng the principles, procedure
es and
responsibilities governing pastoral
p
ca
are is available for inspection
i
in the Ac
cademy.
Set outt below are
e key ideas
s taken fro m that doc
cument.
of the Acad
demy
Care o
It is the
e duty of evvery memb
ber of the Academy to ensure that it is a pleasant place in
which tto learn. Everyone
E
must
m
help tto prevent damage to
t equipmeent and bu
uildings,
to prevvent writing
g on walls or desks and to keep the Aca
ademy tidyy by not dropping
litter. C
Chewing gum
g
is ba
anned and
d any student foun
nd bringin
ng chewin
ng gum
into th
he Academ
my will be
e punishe
ed. Sweetts and cris
sps are alsso prohibitted and
studentts will be punished
p
if they bring
g these item
ms on site.
Registtration
All stud
dents mustt arrive on time and sshould be on the Aca
ademy sitee by 08.15
5 for line
up at 0
08.20. Anyy student arriving la
ate must re
eport to th
he punctuaality officer in the
Recepttion area. If the register has cclosed, stu
udents mus
st report too Receptio
on. The
studentts register will be cod
ded ‘late’ a
and studen
nts must report to theeir Head of Year at
break ttime.
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Mossbourne Victoria Park Academy
Year 7 Induction Booklet 2014-2015
Absence
When a student is absent, the Academy should be informed by a responsible adult
telephoning the Academy on the first day, and every subsequent day of absence. All
absences should be reported to the Academy’s Attendance Officer.
When a student returns after absence s/he must bring a note from his/her parent/
carer. The absence note must not be written in the student's planner as the note will
be filed in the student’s file. Notes can be written on the purple ‘tear out’ slips found
at the back of the planner but it is not compulsory that they are written on a ‘tear out’
slip.
We expect that parents/carers will strive to make appointments outside of Academy
hours. However, in extenuating circumstances, we realise that it may be unavoidable
to make appointments outside of the Academy day. If a student has an appointment
during Academy hours, they must inform their Form Tutor and provide a note at
least 24 hours prior to the appointment. The student must also report to the
Head of Year to gain authorisation at least 24 hours prior to the day of the
appointment. Students will not be allowed to leave the Academy during the
Academy day without the Head of Year’s signature in their planner.
Leave of absence
All students are expected to attend the Academy, every day, unless they are ill or
there are extenuating circumstances. Holidays and absences for any reason other
than the above, during term time, will not be permitted.
Punctuality
It is expected that all of our students will be punctual. However, it is accepted that on
rare occasions something may occur which causes the student to be late. In such a
case the parent must ensure that the child is given a written explanation to show
upon arrival at the Academy. Students will be sanctioned for lateness to the
Academy.
Movement around the Academy
All movement should be quiet and orderly. Students must not play or run in the
corridors. Students must not linger or look over the balconies. All visitors and people
working around the Academy should be treated politely.
Leaving the Academy premises
No student may leave during Academy hours unless s/he has permission from the
Principal, via the Head of Year. All students must sign out, via reception, so there is a
record of students leaving site. See ‘Absence’ above.
Absence from lessons
No student must be out of class unless s/he has written permission. Permission will
not usually be given to go to the toilet unless there are medical reasons.
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Mossbourne Victoria Park Academy
Year 7 Induction Booklet 2014-2015
Rewards
The Academy believes that good behaviour is best promoted and developed by
drawing attention to, and rewarding, well behaved students. The Academy will expect
staff to both informally recognise good work or actions and use the Formal Rewards
System which will centre on the awarding of two types of marks; Merit Marks for
outstanding work and Virtue Marks for positive social behaviours. These in turn will
lead to commendation certificates. In this way all students have the means to receive
positive recognition and taste success. Students will also be rewarded for excellent
attendance throughout, and at the end of, the academic year.
Sanctions
It is possible that during a student’s time at the Academy s/he may be kept behind in
detention. Detentions may operate at break time, lunch time or the end of the
Academy day.
A student may be kept for a short period of time at the end of the Academy day
without prior notice. This is useful when dealing with minor problems of discipline
which are always best dealt with quickly.
When a student is required for a longer period of time, parents will be made aware of
the detention either by a telephone call home or with 24 hours’ notice via the planner.
If there is an incident of serious unacceptable behaviour, students may be kept in the
Academy until 6pm on the same day and, depending on the incident, parents may be
asked to collect them.
Failure to attend a detention may lead to more serious sanctions from the Head of
Learning Area, Head of Department or Head of Year.
The Principal's Detention, which is held from 09:00 until 12:00 on a Saturday, is given
for very serious incidents. If given, it is expected students will attend in full uniform
and that parents will attend a meeting at the Academy to discuss the incident.
Playgrounds and Behaviour Outside the Academy
Only the designated play areas may be used. Students must listen to and follow the
instructions of staff at all times.
If a ball goes over the fence students may not leave the premises to retrieve it.
Students should go directly home at the end of the Academy day and will be
punished if they are seen loitering or using local shops whilst in uniform.
Students are not to enter Victoria Park whilst in uniform unless their quickest route
home requires them to do so.
Cycling to the Academy will only be allowed if: your child has a secure level of
competency to ride a bicycle on public roads, the bicycle has a solid lock which
must be used on Academy premises and the bicycle is road worthy.
Cycling is strictly forbidden in the playground and students will have no access to
their bicycle during Academy hours. Students must not exchange use of their bicycle
with other students. The Academy accepts no responsibility for bicycles.
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Mossbourne Victoria Park Academy
Year 7 Induction Booklet 2014-2015
We strongly encourage students to wear a helmet if they are cycling and encourage
students to wear fluorescent tabards in the darker evenings.
Property
Every individual must take care of his/her property and it should be marked with
his/her name. It is forbidden to bring offensive weapons, illicit substances,
lasers of any kind, tippex, valuables, any money, fireworks, personal electronic
equipment, chewing gum or mobile phones onto the premises.
Appointments
Parents are always welcome to attend the Academy to speak to teachers concerning
the welfare of their child.
It is essential that an appointment is made in advance as the particular teacher may
have teaching and other commitments. In urgent cases it will always be possible for a
parent to speak to someone regarding their child.
Medical Needs
The Academy employs a Medical Welfare Officer. All medical information received by
the Academy will be treated confidentially. Information to ensure the safety and care
of individual students will be disclosed, as appropriate, to staff of the Academy.
It is the parents/carers responsibility to provide current and accurate information
about any medical needs your child may have, including the provision of necessary
medication.
Students with Long-Term Health Needs
Students with long-term health needs will usually be identified through discussions
with the primary school and parent/ carer. Such information will be checked with the
parent/ carer to ensure appropriate records are kept and appropriate provision can
be made.
Parents/ carers are requested to approach the Academy with any information that
they feel the Academy will need to care for individual students. This information
should be given in to the Academy's Medical Welfare Officer before their child starts
in September. The parent/ carer will be required to complete a Medical Statement
form to identify any medical needs. This may require endorsement from the student's
General Practitioner.
Parents/ carers are responsible for informing the Academy of any health issues that
arise during their child's time here.
The Academy follows DfE guidance, in encouraging students who can be trusted to
do so, to manage their own medication. In the first instance, all medication should be
held by the Medical Welfare Officer. Under certain circumstances, with parent/ carer
permission, and bearing in mind the safety of other students, some students will carry
and administer their own medication in accordance with Academy Procedures. For
some students the Academy will draw up a Health Care Plan involving parents/
carers and relevant health professionals.
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Mossbourne Victoria Park Academy
Year 7 Induction Booklet 2014-2015
Short Term Health Needs
Medication should only be taken at the Academy if absolutely necessary. In this case,
parents/ carers must provide written permission, and instruction, regarding the
medication, before any medication can be administered.
Asthma
A few medicines, such as asthma inhalers and epipens, must be readily available to
students. With parental/carer consent, the Academy allows students to carry their
own inhaler/epipen. Parents/ carers must also provide the Academy with a spare
inhaler/epipen clearly labelled with the child's name and stored in the Medical
Room by the Medical Welfare Officer.
Languages
Mossbourne Community Academy welcomes all students, parents/ carers and will
endeavour to ensure that all feel fully included into the community life of the
Academy. If you require information from the Academy, such as reports or letters, to
be translated into community languages, or would like an interpreter to be present at
meetings, please inform us at the Reception. We will endeavour to assist but cannot
guarantee it will always be possible.
Charging and Remission Policy
Parents/ carers will be asked to contribute, where possible, towards the cost of extracurricular activities. A voluntary contribution will be levied for Academy journeys and
trips. If there are insufficient contributions the visit will not take place.
If a trip or visit is required as part of an examination syllabus, the contribution will be
limited to the cost of board and lodging. No student will ever be prevented from
participating on any trip which is compulsory to the curriculum through lack of funds.
Applications for assistance should be made in writing to the Principal before any
deposit is paid.
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Mossbourne Victoria Park Academy
Year 7 Induction Booklet 2014-2015
MOSSBOURNE VICTORIA PARK ACADEMY UNIFORM
It is expected that all students will travel to and from the Academy every day in neat, clean
uniform as specified in the Uniform Policy, giving the clear message that our students take
pride in belonging to the Academy. Anyone who fails to do so will receive a sanction.
Academy uniform can be obtained from:








Trutex (formerly Crossbow Wear)
31 Broadway Market
Hackney
E8 4PH
Tel. 020 7923 9313
e-mail: [email protected]
Girls Boys  Academy Blazer
Academy Blazer
 Academy grey trousers
Academy grey skirt or trousers
 White shirt
Academy blouse
 Academy jumper
Academy jumper
 Academy tie
White short socks/Black opaque
 Black socks
tights
 The Academy uniform outdoor
The Academy uniform outdoor
coat
coat
 Flat, black leather shoes*
Flat, black leather shoes*
 Mossbourne Academy hat and
Mossbourne Academy hat and
scarf **
scarf **
 Black belt with a small, plain
buckle
Girls PE Kit








Boys PE Kit





Academy rugby shirt
White shorts (plain)
White football socks (plain)
Training shoes
White Academy t-shirt
(purchased directly from the PE
department in September- at a
cost of £5)
 Towel
 Roll on deodorant
*Flat, black leather shoes – shoes must not be suede, patent, have any
coloured stitching or any embellishments
** Mossbourne Academy hat and scarf – these items are optional, the only
hat and scarf which pupils are permitted to wear must be the correct uniform
items purchased from the uniform shop. Gloves must be plain dark colours.
Additional Items and Issues
Academy polo shirt
Black shorts (plain)
White football socks (plain)
Training shoes
Black track suit bottoms (plain)
Academy sweatshirt
Towel
Roll on deodorant
 If for religious or cultural reasons a pupil has to wear a head covering then this must
be a Mossbourne head scarf which is available from Trutex. Students’ faces must
always be fully visible. We do not allow full or partial face covering.
14
Mossbourne Victoria Park Academy
Year 7 Induction Booklet 2014-2015
 Girls may wear skirts or trousers but not both. Academy skirts should be worn in two
lengths, i.e. knee length or mid-calf length. Skirts must not be shortened or
lengthened beyond these limitations.
 Outdoor coats must be the Academy uniform coat.
 No jewellery to be worn, except for a single/ pair of small gold or silver stud earrings
in the lobe of the ear and a watch. No other form of body piercing is allowed.
Jewellery must be removed before P.E. lessons.
 No make-up or nail varnish may be worn.
 There should be no hair markings, shaping of the hair or graduating of the hair.
Eyebrows must not be shaved or have any markings in them. Hair should not fall over
the eyes or, indeed, be untidy in any way. Hair must be business-like and smart.
 For boys, hair should be tied back in one unit if longer than the top of their collar. Hair
must always be kept back off of the face. Hair may be worn in plaited styles but with
no topknots.
 For girls, only one ponytail for long hair and simple hair grips or a plain black
headband, to keep hair back off the face.
 Hair should be worn in a plain style which does not draw attention or is incongruous
with the Academy uniform.
 Coats must be removed upon entering the building.
 Shirts and ties should be worn appropriately, i.e. shirts must be tucked in and collars
buttoned and ties worn neither too long nor too short.
 The Academy woollen hat may be worn in the winter months only.
 Students must wear correct uniform on the way to and from the Academy.
Parent Governors
Nominations and elections of two parent governors will take place at the beginning of the
academic year. Further details of this will be provided to parents in the first Academy
newsletter.
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Mossbournne Victoria Park Academy
Year 7 Inducction Booklet 2014-2015
2
Curricu
ulum
There will be a combination of setting and mixeed ability grouping
g
within the curricculum. En
nglish, Matthematics, Science, Modern
Langua
ages and
d Humaniities are set acccording to
o prior
attainm
ment. Musicc, Drama, Dance,
D
PE, Art, Designn & Techno
ology are
taught in mixed ability gro
oups. There is a heeavy emph
hasis on
differen
ntiated teacching and resources
r
to ensure thhat each sttudent is
fully inccluded and extended.
e
Groups containing
g students with specia
al educatio
onal needs are providded with additional
supportt from teach
hing and non-teaching staff. Gifted
d and talentted studentss in particular areas
of the curriculum are identified
d and provid
ded with extension worrk and enricchment activ
vities.
Regularr and conssistent asse
essment in
n tracking student
s
pro
ogress acrooss the cu
urriculum
means that studen
nt moveme
ent between
n sets and groups oc
ccur regularrly (see section on
Assessm
ment).
ation techno
ology (IT) is used exten
nsively for teaching
t
and learning ppurposes. Students
S
Informa
study Spanish at KS3.
K
Persona
al, Social and Health Education,
E
w
which will also
a
include a Citizenshhip program
mme, will
be delivvered on disscrete days spread thro
oughout the
e year.
The five
e Tutor Grou
ups are organised into
o six teachin
ng groups based on abbility. These
teaching
g groups wiill vary from
m subject to subject.
shows the allocation
a
of
o lessons per subjec
ct in Year 7.
7 Each lessson is 55 minutes
m
Table s
in lengtth*
English
Maths
Science
Modern Foreign Languages
Art, Design and Tech
hnology
Physicall Education
Music
Drama
History
Geograp
phy
Religiouss Studies
Compute
er Science
4 les
ssons per week
4 les
ssons per week
4 les
ssons per week
3 les
ssons per week
2 les
ssons per week
2 les
ssons per week
1 les
sson per wee
ek
1 les
sson per wee
ek
1 les
sson per wee
ek
1 les
sson per wee
ek
1 les
sson per wee
ek
1 les
sson per wee
ek
*This allocation is subject
s
to change as th
he curriculu
um is review
wed regularl y
In addittion to this, each stude
ent will be a
allocated tw
wo sessions
s of Prep eaach evening
g except
on Monday when there will be
e only one ssession of Prep.
P
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Mossbourne Victoria Park Academy
Year 7 Induction Booklet 2014-2015
Extra Curricular Activities
It is anticipated that there will be a wide range of extra-curricular activities which will run at
lunch times, after school and on weekends. Details of these will be published as and when
they become available.
Students who will be attending these clubs after normal hours and weekends should inform
parents/carers through use of the Student Planner.
Curriculum Support
At Mossbourne Victoria Park Academy our aim is to ensure that all our students fulfil their
potential, both academically and socially. In accordance with the Revised Code of Practice
2014, and the Academy Special Educational Needs Policy, we recognise that children have
special educational needs if they have a "learning difficulty which calls for special educational
provision" to be made for them.
Through effective liaison with primary schools, we ensure that students with special
educational needs are identified at the point of transfer. For all students on the Special
Educational Needs register, a planning meeting is arranged during the first few weeks in the
Academy, to ensure that appropriate support is organised, and Individual Education Plan
targets can be agreed with parents/carers. Mossbourne also has systems to identify and
provide appropriate support for students who may present with special educational needs
during their time at the Academy.
We recognise the importance of making and maintaining strong home-academy links and, at
all times, endeavour to work closely with parents/ carers and students to ensure that their
wishes and concerns are always fully considered. We also aim to promote and maintain
effective communication between all professionals involved with the student.
At Mossbourne we are committed to meeting the needs of students with special educational
needs and aim to ensure that all students have access to as full and balanced a curriculum
as possible. Planning and review meetings are organised to ensure that appropriate
intervention and support is being provided. All teachers at Mossbourne Victoria Park
Academy are responsible for children with special educational needs and are accountable for
their progress. However, some students will have additional input, which may include support
from:




A Learning Mentor
A Teaching Assistant in class, in a group or in a ratio of 1:1
A Learning Support Specialist teacher in class, in a small group or in a ratio of 1:1
An external specialist e.g. Speech Therapist, Educational Psychologist, Academy
Counsellor, Mental Health Nurse Specialist, CFCS, Physiotherapy, Occupational
Therapy Services
The Curriculum Support Team is led by the Head of SEN Inclusion, Mrs Kenny.
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Mossbourne Victoria Park Academy
Year 7 Induction Booklet 2014-2015
Sex Education
Sex education forms part of the National Curriculum. Sex and relationship education is
delivered through the PCSHE framework.
It can be a sensitive and difficult subject and we rely on parental support to help students
acquire the relevant knowledge and understanding in their growth towards maturity. The
course covers the physical aspects of puberty, reproduction, pregnancy, birth, relationships
and social issues including HIV and AIDS. All teaching is set within a clear moral framework
and recognises that the primary responsibility for bringing up children rests with parents.
Certain aspects of reproduction, pregnancy, birth and puberty are also covered in science
lessons.
Homework
With the exception of P.E. at Key Stage 3, each subject will set homework regularly. This will
vary from subject to subject. Teachers will expect all homework to be completed to a high
standard and handed in on time. The completion of homework is compulsory. Failure to
complete homework will be treated as a serious issue.
In Year 7 it is expected that students will spend approximately one to two hours per night on
homework. Some homework will be completed in the allocated Prep time but it is still
expected that some homework will be completed outside of the Academy day. If the
homework set for your child is taking rather more or less time than the time allotted, please
inform the Form Tutor who will investigate the issues. Parents are asked to inform their
child's Form Tutor and class teacher immediately of any problems with the completion of
homework in order that matters can be resolved quickly.
All homework set, and the date due, will be recorded in the Student Planner. We ask parents/
carers to check and sign their child's planner weekly to ensure that homework is completed
and brought to the Academy by the date set. Some students will need support from home to
ensure that the correct items are brought to the Academy each day. It is helpful during the
first few weeks to ensure that your child gets into the habit of packing their Academy bag the
night before. Using the planner to help your child check through the next day's lessons will
help to ensure that important items such as the P.E. kit are brought to the Academy on the
correct day.
Internal Assessments and Examinations
Students will be regularly assessed and their progress is carefully monitored. This will be
achieved through:





Close scrutiny of classwork and homework
Moderation of student work against National standards
Module tests at regular intervals
End of term tests prior to the writing of interim reports
Regular testing of reading and spelling
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Mossbourne Victoria Park Academy
Year 7 Induction Booklet 2014-2015
Data collected will be used by teachers when completing a student’s Central Record of
Attainment (CRA) at the end of each term. The CRA will indicate performance in the
following areas:




Key Stage 2 prior attainment in English and Maths
Academic attainment grades in each subject studied
Effort level in each subject studied
Underachievement and homework concerns, if any, in any subject studied
Setting
Setting in Year 7 will be based upon the CATS scores and Key Stage 2 examination levels
supplied to us by our feeder primary schools. There will be a review of the initial setting of
students in Year 7 within the first few weeks. Based on internal subject specific
examinations, students will then be reset according to ability to refine the accuracy of the
initial setting process.
Special Exam Arrangements
The Academy conducts screening tests for Access Arrangements and ensures that they are
in place for students requiring this provision, both in internal and public examinations.
Parents/Carers should contact the Head of SEN and Inclusion if they feel their child may
require Access Arrangements.
Reporting to Parents/ Carers
Parents/ carers will receive an Interim Report which records individual student performance
in all of the areas listed in the CRA on a termly basis. A copy of this report will be held within
the Academy. Where significant under-performance is identified this will result in an
individual review which may lead to a mentoring programme being introduced, additional
study or other forms of support.
There are two Parents’ Evenings for Year 7 and a Transition Discussion Day. Transition
Discussion Day will take place early on in the Academic year so parents/carers can meet
staff and learn about how your child is settling in at the Academy.
All students MUST be accompanied by a responsible adult. Attendance to
Parents’ Evening and Transition Discussion Day is compulsory. Please
ensure you have noted the dates:
Transition Discussion Day:
Parents’ Evening:
Parents’ Evening:
Wednesday 8th October 2014
Thursday 15th January 2015
Tuesday 14th July 2015
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Mossbourne Victoria Park Academy
Year 7 Induction Booklet 2014-2015
Safeguarding and Child Protection
A comprehensive policy document outlining the principles, procedures and
responsibilities governing safeguarding and child protection is available for inspection
in the Academy. Set out below are key ideas taken from that document.
All parents/carers should be aware of the responsibility of all staff members with
regard to child protection and safeguarding procedures. The Trustees and staff of
Mossbourne Victoria Park Academy fully recognise the contribution the Academy
makes in the safeguarding of our students. We recognise that all staff, including
volunteers, have a full and active part to play in protecting our students from harm.
Our Academy procedures for safeguarding children are in line with the London Child
Protection Procedures and are endorsed by the City & Hackney Safeguarding
Children's Board. All staff receive regular safeguarding training.
At Mossbourne Victoria Park, we recognise that the Academy plays a significant part
in the prevention of harm to our students by ensuring that there are good lines of
communication with trusted adults. We therefore aim to establish and maintain an
ethos where young people feel secure, are encouraged to talk and are always
listened to. We provide students with opportunities within the PCSHE curriculum to
learn the skills and understanding they need to stay safe from harm and to know who
they should turn to for help, if necessary.
Mossbourne Victoria Park has one Senior Nominated Safeguarding Children’s
Advisor: Mr Toothe, Vice Principal. Mr Puttock, Head of Year 7 and Mrs Kenny, Head
of SEN Inclusion, are also trained as Nominated Safeguarding Children’s Advisors.
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Mossbourne Victoria Park Academy
Year 7 Induction Booklet 2014-2015
Contact Names
Principal
Mr N Rutherford
Vice Principal
Mr M Toothe
Head of Year 7
Mr O Puttock
Head of SEN Inclusion
Mrs C Kenny
YEAR 7 TUTOR GROUPS
7 Angelou
Ms A Carrera
7 Churchill
Mr R Morrow
7 Cicero
Mr A Howard
7 King
Ms F Brockway
7 Pankhurst
Ms S Kelly
Mossbourne Victoria Park Academy
Victoria Park Road
London
E9 7HD
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