Lead Learners Page 9
Issue 619 - 23rd February 2018
C8 Football Final Page 8
Page 5 & 7 www.honywoodschool.com | Tel : 01376 561231
Headlines By Simon Mason
Acting Head Weeks I’d like to start this week’s Gazette by thanking Mrs Hickford and Mr Caygill who took on the role of Acting Head during the final two weeks of last half-term. Our reasons for asking members of the Leadership Team to tackle Acting Head Weeks were explained in Gazette 616. In summary, they form a key part of our plan for transitioning to a new leader for the school, James Saunders, who joins Honywood at the beginning of the summer term. For the rest of this term the Acting Head role will be undertaken by the following colleagues: Week 23 (26/02) Week 24 (5/03) Week 25 (12/03) Week 26 (19/03) Week 27 (26/03)
Mr White Mr Rawlings Mrs Hickford Mr Munro Mr Munro
Should you have any queries that you would normally direct to me, please ensure you contact the appropriate colleague listed above during this final part of the school’s change to a new leader. Reflections The first edition of Honywood Gazette appeared in September 2002; I mention this as you’ll note from the information above that this week’s Gazette will be the last in which I contribute Headlines as my Acting Head colleagues will be writing this section for the remainder of this term. Looking back at those first few Gazettes it is interesting to note that from the earliest days of my leadership of the school we were focusing on learners taking responsibility for their learning, with the school and families acting in a strong partnership to ensure that we provided the most personalised education we could manage for each of our youngsters. In fact one of the very first changes I made at the school was to introduce what we now call learning reviews, moving from rather impersonal parents’ evenings to much more individual conversations about the actions learners, the school and families needed to take if learners were to make excellent progress. Over the years that I’ve led our school I’ve heard an awful lot of nonsense talked about education. Much of this I’ve heard from government representatives who only ever seem to care about things you can measure, even when those things don’t really mean very much. I’ve lost count of the number of different ‘measures’ that have been imposed on schools during my time as Head and I honestly believe that few, if any, of them have actually improved the learning opportunities of young people. Education is much more than things you can measure. In my view education is about creating the conditions for personal growth and is a life-long process. I believe that for anyone to flourish and grow they must first learn to respect themselves. Selfrespect without honesty is simply delusion and without humility can lead to arrogance. However, when self-respect is fully grasped people can fulfil their potential. In my view the best way for youngsters to develop real self-respect is to be immersed in an education that focuses on their personal situation, where their families and their school work together to achieve that end.
So in my experience, things improve for young people when schools work incredibly hard to meet individual need, when families work closely with their school to ensure that everything is in place to enable young people to excel and when families and schools agree that their focus has to be on empowering young people to take ownership of their lives, make their own choices and learn from them. In my years as Head of our school, this has been the school I’ve been trying to create, not one that simply focuses on things that are easy to measure. As I come to the end of my time as Head, can I thank every family for the commitment you have shown to trying to make education the best it can be in our community. Can I thank every learner for taking on the many challenges we have placed in front of you all. Can I thank all our staff for their courage and commitment in taking forward the ideas we have developed at our school to ensure we focus on learners as individual young people. Can I thank our school Governors for their unstinting support and thoughtful, constructive challenge through all my years at the school. My final message is this. If you believe in yourself, respect yourself and are honest with yourself, you’ll never find a challenge you cannot overcome. If you own your own problems you’ll also own all the solutions to them and you’ll truly own all your successes. I believe that people who are able to do this not only enjoy more success than those who cannot, they also have happier lives than those who look to blame others when challenges come their way. My best wishes go to you all as you continue to grapple with this life-long challenge. Staffing Update Families may not be aware that we have two Maths teachers at Honywood who years ago passed a qualification (called Advanced Skills Teacher) that endorsed their classroom excellence demonstrating that they were not only experts in their professional field, but also excellent at guiding others in their subject. One of those teachers is Nathan Rawlings, who families will know is one of our Assistant Headteachers. Mr. Rawlings has been working closely with our Maths staff during the course of this year to further develop provision in this key subject. We have been delighted with the work already completed, but need to allocate more of Mr. Rawlings time to this to ensure we achieve everything we set out to do. To create this time, I have asked another of our Assistant Headteachers, Jo Hickford, to take over the line management of Cohort 10, working very closely with Ms Martin. Should families have any queries about matters affecting learners in Cohort 10, please do feel free to get in touch with Mrs Hickford in the way that you previously would have contacted Mr. Rawlings. Thanks To Jack Newnham (8KAr) for his support during a family tour around the school on Thursday
Parents’ Time Members of the Leadership Team will be available to see parents without appointment: Monday 9.00am—9.45am Tuesday 7.15am—8.00am Wednesday 3.00pm—3.45pm Thursday 5.00pm—6.00pm Friday 7.15am—8.00am
Parent Forum from James Saunders Headteacher Designate Parent Forum Thank you to those parents who have taken the time to provide me with feedback and views regarding the school. It has been very enlightening reading your many views on the topics I presented to you. Your comments have helped me to gain a well-balanced view of daily life at Honywood as well as your perception of a number of areas; for that I thank you. The outcomes of the survey will help to shape the immediate priorities when I start and will feed into the development of our long-term vision.
Please reassure your children that I shall be asking them for their views when I arrive at the school after Easter; I hope to meet with as many groups as I can in the first few weeks.
There is still time to provide feedback should you wish to, I shall leave the survey open until 2nd March, at which point I will close it off and collate the responses. I intend to produce and share with you a summary of my findings. I shall then be holding an informal meeting to provide you with an opportunity to discuss the outcomes further or to ask any questions. This meeting will take place on Friday 9th March, 7.00 - 8.30pm.
I will also be available for drop in sessions if you would like a chat and a cup of tea at the following times:
Wednesday 21st March 4-6pm Tuesday 27th March 4-6pm Wednesday 28th March 7.30-9.30am
These will operate in a similar way to parents’ time – no appointment is needed. If you would like to attend the meeting on the 9th March, please e-mail: lbroadbent@honywoodschool. com with your name, contact number and how many people will be attending. Places are limited and will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. James Saunders
Ambassador Interview Update The first round of interviews are in full swing and several learners have already been successful in their interviews and have secured their first choice of role. Interviewers have been very impressed with the learners they have interviewed, commenting on how smartly they have been dressed, that they arrived on time and answered the questions in an articulate and thoughtful manner. If learners have not secured a role in the first round of interviews, they must not be disheartened. Some Ambassador roles had a high number of applicants so competition for the roles has been extremely high. They will have an opportunity to secure a role once the first round of interviews have been completed, as the second round of interviews will then start. Any learners who have been unsuccessful in their first interview will be able to interview for their second or third choice if the positions are still available. Learners can also, ask for feedback from their first interview to help them prepare for their next interview. Once all interviews have been completed and Ambassador roles allocated, learners and parents/carers will receive letters confirming the roles given and will be invited to attend the Ambassador assembly on Tuesday 27th March at 2pm where they will be presented with their Ambassador ties. Jo Brook Deputy Headteacher
THE GREAT HONYWOOD
BAKE OFF & BOOK SALE
1st March 2018
Ever thought you could win “The Great British Bake Off”? Why not enter your star bake into our competition? 50p to enter your bake There’s lots of prizes available to win! Just bring your star bake to TE5 first thing in the morning
Don’t like baking? Lots of books & cakes will also be for sale Prices start from 50p so don’t forget your cash
On the main stage at lunchtime email lbrown@honywoodschool.com or aharrington@honywoodschool.com for more details
Come to school dressed as your favourite book character! Competition held at lunch in EN5. Then, come to Honywood’s ‘Bake Off and Book Sale’ held on the main stage at lunch. Prices start from 50p.
Learning Reviews The reporting cycle is now well under way and all families have received at least one report on their youngster’s progress since the beginning of September. Each Cohort receives 3 reviews per academic year; a Progress Review, a Learning Review and a written Learning Summary. Progress reviews feature reporting of progress using the 1-4 scoring system, and grading A-D for skills in organisation, concentration and deadlines, with written comments only necessary if a concern needs to be raised. Learning Reviews for Cohorts 7 and 8 feature progress scores, and A-D grading for skills, whereas Cohorts 9, 10 and 11 additionally include an aggregated GCSE grade. This Learning Review is followed by Learning Review meetings, held between the LGL and the parents or carers of each learner in a Learning Group, where learners are encouraged to lead the meetings with a detailed reflection of their learning journey. The format of the review is that for the first ten to fifteen minutes, the learner will be asked to talk through their progress so far. They will be asked to reflect on their starting points at Honywood and consider how their learning has progressed in the last eleven weeks. This part of the review is interactive, with the reviewer using prompt questions to ensure that every learner has the best chance of identifying high points in their learning to date as well as reflecting on moments when they have struggled. Once this discussion has ended, the family are given a review document, prepared by teaching staff, that reports on the learner’s progress. The feedback given here forms the basis of a discussion that usually takes a further twenty minutes. The review concludes with all present agreeing one or two general learning points upon which the learner will focus in the weeks ahead. The Learning Summary forms a summative written reflection of the learning and skill progression that has been seen over the year in each subject, and is supported by a reflective summary which is written by each learner in a Learning Group. Cohort 11 have already received their Learning Summaries in support of their post-16 applications, with Cohorts 7, 8, 9 and 10 due to receive theirs during the summer term. Learners in Cohort 8 are currently using time during Learning Session 3 to prepare for their Learning Review meetings, which will be taking place during week 25-27 (12th – 29th March). Learners will be collating evidence from their Showcasing, Independent Study, and any other relevant resources so that they will be able to engage in purposeful, reflective discussion about their learning during their meeting. Families will shortly receive an invitation to attend the school to meet with their child’s Learning Group Leader, or a member of the Leadership Team. Please be reminded that all parents and carers are welcome to contact the school at any time if there are any specific queries about their youngster’s learning, and meetings outside of the usual reporting window can also be arranged by request. In the first instance, queries should always be directed to the Learning Group Leader. . .
Jack Petchey The January and February winners of The Jack Petchey Foundation Award for outstanding achievers are Natasha and Lara Stevens. Both girls have been selected for the award for their continued commitment to their studies regardless of what life has to throw at them. The girls are always happy, and helpful and upbeat no matter what and are such caring and considerate souls. Natasha Stevens 10HTr January 2018 Winner
Lara Stevens 10MRa February 2018 Winner If you would like to nominate someone for a Jack Petchey award please contact slockett@honywoodschool.com
Cohort 8 Inter-Learning Group Football League The Final On the Friday before half term the two giants of C8 5 a side football faced off for what was billed to be a fascinating encounter. There was revenge to be had for 8EPe who had lost to 8DCa 1 goal to nil in the group stage. Both sides played with real intent from the start and defences stood strong. There seemed to be no let up for the fast paced attacks. Liam Gipson moved the ball around well but was pushed back through some mighty defensive efforts from Hannah Day and Finlay Faraway. However the deadlock was finally broken as EPe found the back of the net. This was quickly responded to by Travis who smashed in an absolute screamer from 30 yards out. EPe then scored again after half time but DCa fought back to score an equaliser bring the game into extra time Golden goal. Both sides fought valiantly to secure the winning goal and some stout defensive work from Summer Campbell prevented the lightning quick and skilful Josh Taylor and Cole Robbins from scoring. Finally the Golden Goal came through the boot of Harry Regan and 8EPe were champions! Well done to both finalists on a cracking game of football. Congratulations go to 8EPe for winning the 2018 Cohort 8 inter learning group football league. Player of the match award goes to Summer Campbell for her awesome defensive performance. It has been a fantastic competition and a massive thanks must go to Mr Walker for organising and refereeing each game as well as Jonny Adams, Josh Taylor and Finlay Ball for organising with him. Thanks also to all the LGLs who supported with particular thanks to Mr Bilby for not only giving up every Friday lunchtime to crowd manage but also to ref one of the games. Thanks also to Miss Pearce for organising an match kit for her winning learning group!
What’s Happening in School (a ‘Snapshot’ of Learning @ Honywood each day)
What's happening in school on Tuesday 20th February 2108 Our Cohort 9 GCSE food technology learners were making cheese!
What’s happening in school on Thursday 22th February 2108 Our Lead Learners were very excited as they were presented with their official school jumper bearing their names. Congratulations to all!
What's happening in school on Thursday 22nd February 2018 In Expressive Arts, our C9 GCSE dancers were working on their own choreography which is worth 30% of their overall GCSE. This devised piece can be a solo (2 and a half minutes) or a group piece (three and a half minutes).
Our Wednesday Primary clubs are running again this term and the youngsters attending were having a fantastic time. In History, they have been researching topics around the Great War that they have chosen, one of the youngsters even made a model of the trenches! In Food Technology, they were making stuffed peppers yesterday and in Art the learners have been finishing off their canvasses and starting to study trees in preparation for their sculptures! If any youngsters are interested in attending one of our Primary Clubs on a Wednesday 3:45 - 4:45pm, please contact Mrs Reece at the school to check availability.
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Spirit of Honywood On Sunday 18th February, the second Feel Good Fair opened it's doors to the public from 10am-2pm. This Fair was even bigger than the last and people have been impressed with the amount of interest we are receiving only 2 events in. We had even more traders; a wonderful homemade nut butter company Nuoi Foods, Seitan producers Gambardeli, Cosmetics from Laouami Botanicals, clothing from Responsibly Sourced, Fair Trade items from Lucy's Tree house, activated coal products from Fit4aKiing and many more. People seem happy to come to the Fair to hang out and enjoy one anothers company which is wonderful as well as support ethical and local independent traders. Next month falls on Mother's Day, and we are in the process of organising an event for the whole family to enjoy. The theme is cosmetics and we will be offering pamper sessions, teaching about homemade beauty products and will have activities for the children to enjoy. Come along and help to support Spirit of Honywood who are working so hard to fundraise the help to fund special learning opportunities for the youngsters at Honywood School. February's Fair Raised ÂŁ457.50. Special thanks to The Tofu Box, Wyevale in Braintree and Folk Andles in Earls Colne for collectively putting together a raffle prize worth ÂŁ60 plus Kings Seeds for donating seeds for the events seed swap, with any extras going to the Hub Garden. Stacey Lockett
Honywood School My Learning Hub Support Worker
Teacher of Maths
(37 hours per week, 39 weeks, £13,913 - £15,430 p.a.)
Annual Salary £23,763 - £32,186
We are looking for an exceptional person to join our team of staff supporting youngsters’ learning. The post will involve the successful applicant in working one-to-one with specific learners, supporting small groups of learners and supporting learners both in our new Enhanced Provision for learners with autism as well as within the wider school setting. We offer:
A high achieving Academy producing excellent examination results. A learning environment where you will be asked to expand your thinking about the high-challenge education we offer our young people. A learning model under-pinned by strong, authentic relationships, shared responsibility and teamwork, which values every member of our school community. Excellent in-house induction and training for all our new employees.
You will need:
September 2018 or earlier
We require an exceptional teacher to join our Maths team; this opportunity would ideally suit a Newly Qualified Teacher. We offer:
A high achieving Academy producing excellent examination results.
A challenging learning environment where you will be asked to expand your thinking about the education we offer our young people.
Excellent induction and outstanding on-going staff development which will prepare the post holder for progression in their teaching career.
A well-resourced Subject Team with the support of experienced, successful specialists.
You will need:
The ability to teach Maths to GCSE level and preferably to ‘A’ Level.
The mental agility to push your own learning and thinking whilst leading the learning and thinking of our youngsters.
A willingness to participate fully in extra-curricular events including residential experiences.
A willingness to learn every day as you consistently strive to increase your impact on our youngsters’ learning.
Outstanding people skills, flexibility and initiative. Knowledge and understanding of the learning difficulties faced by youngsters with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. Minimum Grade C GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Maths - ‘A’ Level (or equivalent) education preferred. A willingness to learn every day as you consistently strive to increase your impact on our youngsters’ learning.
For an information pack, or to organise a pre-application visit, contact Mrs S. Pattison (spattison@honywoodschool.com), Honywood Community Science School, Westfield Drive Coggeshall, Essex, CO6 1PZ (telephone: 01376 564708).
A willingness to support wider SEND and medical need as appropriate. Closing date for applications is Thursday 8th March.
For an information pack, or to organise a pre-application visit, contact Mrs S. Pattison (spattison@honywoodschool.com), Honywood Community Science School, Westfield Drive Coggeshall, Essex, CO6 1PZ (Telephone: 01376 564706). Closing date for applications is Tuesday 27th February, interviews will be held on Friday 9th March
My Learning Choices English Cohort 10, your mocks are approaching so it is a good time to explore any areas in your learning which you you need to develop and improve. Book an MLC today to ensure that you address any areas of your learning that are currently causing you concern. Review your recent learning points and take action now to address these areas. Enterprise & Solutions MLCs this week are available to Cohort 7 learners that would like help working through parts 1-6 of their ‘Product Design’ challenge.
Important Dates 27th Feb C8 MLA Day 2 1st March World Book Day/ Dress Down Day 2nd March C11 Whole Cohort Photo 5th - 16th March C8 Parents Taster Week 6th & 8th March Primary Learning Day (Exp Arts) 14th March - Cohort 8 Guided Choices Evening 19th - 23rd March Quintet Week 3 29th March Last day of term finish 3.20pm 2nd - 13th April Easter Holiday
Business Studies MLCs this week will be focused on the ‘Business in the Real World’ for the Cohort 9s, with the main focus on the similarities and differences between Private Limited Companies (Ltd.) and Public Limited Companies (PLC). Sessions will also be available for Cohort 10s who would like to go through any aspects of the ‘Finance’ topic. MFL Cohorts 9 & 10; following your learning review meetings lots of you will have received learning points suggesting booking MLCs...grab your iPads and book one with an MFL teacher today to improve your French, German or Spanish!
Well Done to our Cohort 8 Duty Receptionists Ethan Harding Maisie Harris Zoe Hodgkins Alex Jennings Andrew Lagdon
Family Learning Team
email FLT@honywoodschool.com If your youngster is absent please email attendance@honywoodschool.com