Blessed George Napier Catholic School & Sixthform The Sixth Form

Sixth Form Personalities

As you can see from these photos - we seek to develop true individual character at BGN.

Sixth Form Bulletin

1) LOURDES
Very important meeting at break today (Monday 8th) in C6

Year 12 only
2) HIGHER EDUCATION CONFERENCE
Year 12 should have received information (letter and photocopied booklets) detailing arrangement for the Higher Education Conference. Please return reply slips and money asap.

3) WORK EXPERIENCE
There is still a handful of students who have not finalised their work experience placements. If you have not seen Mrs Garrett, you must do asap.

4) CLA
All pupils in Year 12 must have signed their CLA book so it is to be sent off to the British Sport Trust. If you have not, your name is in on the noticeboard in the common room and you must see Mr Martin asap.

NOTICES FOR THIS WEEK

USE OF THE LRC
The overwhelming majority of the time Sixth Form students are fantastically well behaved in the LRC and you use the space as a quiet working area. However, I would like to take this opportunity to remind all students that under no circumstances should any games or music be played on the computers in there. If somebody is abusing your privileges by doing so, they are running the risk of depriving you and others of a fantastic facility that is critical for exam success. If you are able, please politely ask any individuals to refrain from doing so or discreetly report them to a member of staff. We, as a Sixth Form, have a collective responsibility to each other.

CLOSURE OF THE LRC
I am very sorry to say that on Tuesday and Thursday this week (periods 1-4) that the LRC will be out of bounds for the all Sixth Form students. I have already spoken to the Student Council – many of whom gave passionate pleas and expressed real frustration on your behalf - about the LRC being closed for Sixth Form students and I am working to keep any closures to an absolute minimum. In this case, the Year 10 work experience interviews are taking place in there with many external visitors and it is right that Year 10 have a nice, quiet and private environment like you would have done 2 or 3 years ago. Alternative rooms for your quiet independent study will be listed in the common room on the white board.

SIXTH FORM ASSEMBLY THIS WEEK AND NEXT
Assembly will return to normal this week with both Year 12 and Year 13 together. There is a special guest speaker this week.

SENIOR PREFECTS
Adam Smith and Jack Cato will be speaking in assembly this week about a new system for all Senior Prefects. Please watch this space.

STUDENT COUNCIL
Meeting this Tuesday 1.30pm

MUNGA
Good luck to those students that are going to Kidlington today. I am sure you will have a great time and a full report to follow.

YEAR 12: LAMPERI GROUP
• Didn’t the group get off to a Flying Start last week!?
• Thanks to Mr Wheatley who ran, by all accounts from all the pupils there, a fascinating discovery session at lunch last Tuesday
• A big thanks also to Miss Smith who drove us to Oxford University later that evening to listen to Doreen Lawrence discuss whether ‘Racism has been eliminated in 21st Century Britain’.
• All of our students present showed tremendous respect and intelligence when asking many pertinent questions. Well done!
• They will be another talk before Easter but it will take place in school. As soon as the external speaker is confirmed, I will announce the details.
• For now, this Tuesday at break, Mrs Watts will give you a debate challenge. Make sure you arrive on time!
• Later that day at lunch, Jack Cato and Adam Smith will model a debate and introduce the British Parliamentary System of debating to you all. It will be then for you to prepare for the debate proper next week – how very exciting?!

Have a GREAT week!
Mr Martin

History of the Sixth Form - Proud History, Bright Future

Proud history

The history of the BGN Sixth Form goes back to the time of the first Head of the school, Mr George Grimshaw. He saw the need for young people to have the opportunity to continue their studies and develop maturity in a Christian Catholic atmosphere where they had become familiar with learning and the development of social skills.

The Sixth Form was consolidated under Mr Terry O’Flynn, the second Head, and became recognised as the viable and successful Post 16 institution that the Sixth Form is today. In recent times, the Governors have agreed a distinctive admissions policy which encourages students from other schools to join. The Sixth Form continues to grow in popularity as November last year saw a record number of applications
for the Sixth Form.

Bright future

Blessed George Napier Sixth Form does have an excellent reputation within the local community and proven record of exam success. In order to maintain both of these, we have taken additional steps to support our Year 11 students into Year12. We are very excited about our first FLYING START DAY and the AS PREPARATION CLASSES we have offered prospective students this year and the positive impact they will have on pupil achievement.

Post 16 Opportunities

Sixth Form Bulletin

Dear Students,

MESSAGE FROM HEAD GIRL
Would you like the opportunity to get involved in a fun and worthwhile after-school group which could contribute to your CLA hours? There is a group that takes place at BGN for young people and adults in the community with disabilities, and they are currently looking for people, particularly sixth formers, to get involved and contribute some new ideas to the group. If you would like to get involved, either to lead a session or just to go along and join in, please see me for more details.
Caitlin Montague

SIXTH FORM ASSEMBLY THIS WEEK AND NEXT
Assembly will be for Year 13 only on Tuesday. I have several important things I want to talk about with Upper Sixth specifically. Year 12 will spend quality time with their tutors, setting targets and discussing strategies to improve from now until Easter. Next week normal service will resume for the rest of the year.

ATTENDANCE
ALL PUPILS are required to register every morning and afternoon. I did outline this at the start of the year at the Sixth Form Induction Evening and nothing has changed. If you are absent, please telephone school and let us know. This week the Student Council will be helping decide on the ATTENDANCE POLICY for the Sixth Form.

STUDENT COUNCIL
Meeting this Tuesday 1.30pm

YEAR 12:
LAMPERI GROUP
As launched last week, with University places becoming more and more competitive, Year 12 students need a wide range of evidence and experiences to support their university application. We are therefore presenting highly motivated students with an opportunity to stretch themselves beyond their chosen subjects by becoming part of the ‘Lamperi Group’. This group will meet once a week to in order to discuss and debate a variety of issues set by different teachers and will also be presented with further opportunities outside of school. One such out of school opportunity is taking place on Tuesday 2nd March at Oxford University. Following the murder of her son Stephen in 1993, Doreen Lawrence has tirelessly campaigned to raise awareness of racism in Britain and will be responding to the claim that ‘Racism has been eliminated in 21st Century Britain’ with a short discussion, followed by a debate with the audience. This is fantastic opportunity for students to engage with a leading anti-racism activist on an exciting and challenging topic as well honing their debating and thinking skills. This is also a wonderful chance to experience a little of what Oxford University has to offer and would enhance your child’s university application. RETURN REPLY SLIPS TO MR MARTIN ASAP.
ENRICHMENT: EVERY WEDNESDAY PERIOD 5
A brief reminder that ENRICHMENT is COMPULSORY for ALL students, without exception. Please do not ask if you can be excused to complete coursework as this is a valuable part of what we offer in the Sixth Form and something you have signed up for.

HIGHER EDUCATION CONFERENCE
Year 12 should have received information (letter and photocopied booklets) detailing arrangement for the Higher Education Conference. Please return reply slips and money asap.

WORK EXPERIENCE
There is still a handful of students who have not finalised their work experience placements. If you have not seen Mrs Garrett, you must do asap.

Have a great second week back!
Mr Martin

What make us unique?

Every year, Year 13 students leave here with excellent exam results. Students are attracted from other schools based on the reputation of some departments. Class sizes range from 2 - 20 students which enables teachers to “provide good individual support during lessons and give appropriate encouragement and guidance” and teachers to “provide good support” (Ofsted,2006). In addition to this, it is our personal
development and holistic approach to the development of pupils which sets us apart.

BODY

We are an established high performing sports college and aim to meet the challenge of creating new opportunities for all 16-19 years olds to participate in three hours each week of sporting activities through their colleges or in local clubs by 2011. There are a wide range of opportunities available such as mixed hockey and football extra-curricular teams, leaders in School Clubs and timetabled Enrichment for all Year 12 students (options have included attending Boxercise classes, using the local Gym, Leadership courses and externally coached basketball sessions).

The student council busy discussing important issues

MIND

There are many opportunities for students to develop leadership skills.Please see the selected slides from “Sixth Form Open Evening” in the ATTACHED DOCUMENTS for more details. Of all listed, our Sixth Form Student Council in particular is a very useful body. Students articulate their thoughts openly,honestly and very well. Students care deeply about the school and those in need and when empowered, will work hard to make things happen. For example, in 2009 Student Council discussions have directly led to successful fundraising activities (over �900 has been donated to charity).

SPIRIT

We are a Catholic Sixth Form and this is evident in what we do on a daily basis. We do indeed seek to put Jesus Christ at the centre of everything we do. Sixth Form students are constantly challenged to be
Christian role models to the rest of the school. As well as regular prayer and assemblies, students will regularly attend mass. In addition, we offer pupils the chance to go to Soli House at the beginning of Year 12. This is always a special time where friendships are cemented and new ones created but students are given time in their busy lives to reflect what is important to them and how they should live their lives. The highlight of the year for many staff and students is the annual trip to Lourdes. Despite some initial shyness, it is not long before our pupils always show real care, kindness and reverence when working with the sick. All return tired but spiritually refreshed to the extent that students at University and on gap years often accompany the trip time and time again.

Students enjoying themselves and developing spirituality at Soli House

The Sixth Form Contract

We encourage all our Sixth Form Students to take an active and leading role in all aspects of school life. Because of this high profile within the school, and as preparation for what lies beyond in the world of work or Higher Education, high standards of behaviour, appearance, attendance and punctuality are expected. The following conditions are detailed in the contract:

I shall:

Attend school regularly, only being absent for legitimate reasons.
Attend all my lessons when present without exception.
Register both in the morning and afternoon.
Be punctual to all lessons.
Be fully involved in Assemblies and School Masses.
Complete set work on time.
Catch up promptly on any missed work.
Make good use of the time available in school for study.
Dress and behave in a manner appropriate to a member of the Sixth Form.
Bring credit to myself and the school at every opportunity.
Have respect for all other members of the school community.
Strive to be an appropriate model example for the younger students at BGN.
Show leadership in all the sporting and extra-curricular activities entered by the school, supporting social functions and fund raising activities.

Sixth Form Bulletin

Dear Students,

HAITA APPEAL A PRAYER FOR HAITI
Loving God of creation,
at this time of devastation
we hold before you the people of Haiti.
When the damage is unimaginable,
and the suffering seems overwhelming,
remind us that every person affected
is loved, honoured and precious in your sight.
We remember all those who have been hurt;
all who have lost their homes, livelihoods and loved ones.
Work through us to bring healing
to broken and distorted lives,
peace to those who have been thrown into despair,
light to those in darkness,
and hope to those who fear.
We ask this in the name of Jesus
in whom all life and grace is found.
Amen

As well as praying, Mrs Weaver has asked each tutor group to think what we can do to raise money to help those affected by the earthquake. This type of appeal is an opportunity where Sixth Form students can really lead the school and positively make a difference … so lets get thinking and doing!!!!!
ASSEMBLIES AND DRESS THIS WEEK
MONDAY (TODAY): Pupils do not need to smart
Sixth Form Assembly at 8.40am
TUESDAY: Pupils need to be smart
Whole School Assembly at 10.40am
THURSDAY: Pupils need to be especially smart
Sixth Form and individual photos

DRIVING LESSONS
As I outlined at the start of the year, driving lessons are a “grey area”. Ideally, I would not want any pupil to have driving lessons during the school day (as we all know, the school day is a short day and a working day!). However, I recognise that some of you do find it difficult to arrange appointments after school and you are working towards developing an important skill. Therefore, only as a last resort and with my permission, do you have a driving lesson during the school day. If you do, it is only in a non-contact period and not during either assembly slot. Thank you for remembering and respecting this request.

PARKING ON ADDISON ROAD
If you have your own car, please refrain from parking on Addison Road. Please see me is you have any concerns.

PSME PERIOD 1 ON WEDNESDAY
All Year 12 are to go to the sports hall to meet with their CLA staff leader
Year 13 are expected to use the time to catch up with coursework in the LRC

JUNE 2010 RESITS
The latest date for re-sit forms together with the correct payment is 17th March. Do not miss out!

PREFECTS
Please make sure you are present and on time for your duty. It is vital in the smooth running of the school. Also, please remember, most of you have included the responsibility on your UCAS application and it is only right that you honour your commitment at the start of the year.

YEAR 12: HIGHER CONFERENCE
Year 12 should have received information (letter and photocopied booklets) detailing arrangement for he Higher Education Conference. Please return reply slips and money asap.

POTENTIAL ENGINEERS
Calling all budding engineers! Please pay attention in assembly this week as there is a great opportunity for students applying to any engineering degree (any discipline, from aeronautical to electrical) to apply for a range of bursaries from Banbury Rotary Club.

LOURDES GROUP
Caitlin and Jess are leading the organisation of the Valentines Disco (Thursday this week for Years 7,8 & 9). All money raised will go to the Lourdes Fund. Please support them and offer to help.

FOOTBALL AND NETBALL TEAMS
Last week the Netball team played well and were unlucky to lose … the football team hope to get back to winning ways this week …

Have a great week

Mr Martin

Introduction to Sixth Form

INTRODUCTION:

We see Sixth Form students as young adults who can act as role models to younger pupils. Accordingly, we seek to develop each and every student by providing many opportunities for them to be leaders in our school community.

Our provision and policies at Key Stage 5 reflect our belief in young people. For example, we have “put our money where our mouth is” in thee facilities we offer our Post 16 students. The common room is relatively new and we have recently invested significantly in new equipment and furniture. The newly built Learning Resource Centre is situated next to the common room and provides perfect opportunity for students to work independently.

Due to the provision, status and opportunities we give our pupils, “students enjoy being in the Sixth Form”(Ofsted, 2006) and all pupils surveyed last year stated that they would advise other students to join.

Excellent facilities on offer - Sixth Form students using the new Learning Resource Centre.

Post-16 Links within Banbury

At present, BGN and Banbury School work together within a Post-16 Timetable Grid under a longstanding co-operative arrangement. There are various advantages to this:

Students may study subjects at other institutions that are not on offer at BGN e.g. AS Sociology, whilst maintaining a pastoral base at BGN.
Where tudents wish to study two subjects from the same option block at BGN, they can take one of the subjects at BGN and the other elsewhere, so maintaining their preferred subject combination.
Students from other institutions can study courses at BGN which are not on offer at those institutions e.g. AS and A2 Chemistry or Music. The Governors welcome applications from these students providing they are prepared to integrate into the Christian ethos of the school.
Students continue to study in a familiar working environment whilst experiencing academic life outside their own institution.

A Level English Language Conference

Students who are attending the above English Language Conference should meet in school by the main gates at 7.45am. We shall be leaving promptly at 8am. Anyone who is late will unfortunately be left behind.

You will need to bring a packed lunch, money for vending machines etc. A notebook and pen will also be useful! Please do not bring fizzy drinks. Mobile phones should be on silent/turned off during the conference.

We should return to BGN School between 5.30pm and 6pm.

Thank you for your co-operation
Mrs Sharpley

Bridging the Gap: GCSE to A Level and Beyond

The Sixth Form at BGN seeks to help students acquire knowledge, understanding and skills which will benefit them throughout life, in an environment which has neither the control of the first five years of secondary school nor the complete freedom of the Higher Education Institute.

Central to the Sixth Former’s life is his/her academic study, though the level required at AS and A Level can be a daunting prospect. To help students adapt to the new, raised standards and the different style of teaching and learning, Sixth Form Tutors provide advice, support and stability, guiding students through this period of transition and dealing with any problems that might arise.

Opportunities are provided throughout the two years for students to think about their future after school. A week’s Work Experience is arranged in Lower Sixth and speakers from universities, industry and
Gap Year organisations are invited in to encourage students to consider the options open to them.

Sixth Form Bulletin

Dear Students,

EMA PAYMENTS
Please make sure you complete your payment slips promptly or you do risk losing the money.

POTENTIAL ENGINEERS
Calling all budding engineers! Please pay attention in assembly this week as there is a great opportunity for students applying to any engineering degree (any discipline, from aeronautical to electrical) to apply for a range of bursaries from Banbury Rotary Club.

A COUPLE OF REMINDERS …
SIGNING IN AND OUT: PUPIL LEAVES SCHOOL AND IS COMING BACK TO SCHOOL THE SAME DAY
- If a pupil leaves school at break or lunch for example, they must sign out using the yellow book in the common room (this is in case of a fire alarm)
SIGNING IN AND OUT: PUPIL ARRIVES LATE OR LEAVES SCHOOL AND IS NOT COMING BACK FOR THE DAY
- If a pupil is late or leaves school due to doctor’s appointment for example, they must sign out in the front office
- When pupils sign out at the front office, your register will be altered

PREFECTS
Please make sure you are present and on time for your duty. It is vital in the smooth running of the school. Also, please remember, most of you have included the responsibility on your UCAS application and it is only right that you honour your commitment at the start of the year.

LOURDES
It is not too late if you still want to go! See me asap.

STUDENT COUNCIL
• Meeting every Tuesday 1.30pm
• Members are to stand up and report back in tutor time on Thursday morning to improve communication between students and the Council

YEAR 12: HIGHER CONFERENCE
Year 12 should have received information (letter and photocopied booklets) detailing arrangement for he Higher Education Conference. Please return reply slips and money asap.

YEAR 12: WORK EXPERIENCE
Pupils need to organise their own placement. Whereas only a few have everything completed, most are making progress. Any problems, please be proactive and see Mrs Garrett asap. THE FINAL DEADLINE IS MONDAY 8TH FEBRUARY.

FOOTBALL TEAM
A bad day at the office last week. The team will have to make up for it a week on Wednesday!

ART TRIP
I hope all the students going to Berlin have a enjoyable time socially and educationally. Report to follow.

Have a great week

Mr Martin

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS?

The minimum entry requirement is 5 grades at ‘C’ or above at GCSE level. In addition, we do hope for a GCSE pass at “A” or “B” grade in their chosen AS subjects.

APPLICATION PROCESS FOR SIXTH FORM

November: Sixth Form Open Evening / Applications window

December: Taster Day

January: Sixth Form Interview & Conditional letters of acceptance

June: Flying Start Day / AS Preparation Classes

August: GCSE Results Day

September: Induction: Expectations Evening and Course Registration / Begin AS courses

Sixth Form Bulletin

Dear Students,

EXAMS ALMOST OVER
With the exams almost finished now and the snow thawed - hopefully for another year! – it is now really time to knuckle down and get into good habits. The quantity and quality of your work outside of the classroom now (that is, your use of “frees” and homework) is key in determining whether your hopes and dreams will come to fruition in August.

USE OF THE LRC
Following the events of last week, it is important that each and every one of us abides by the Code of Conduct when using the LRC. When everyone does, it will be the valuable resource and a great place of learning for all Sixth Form students.

PUNCTUALITY TO SCHOOL
The Student Council has debated the recent drive to encourage all students to arrive to school on time and the consequences for the Sixth Form. I am sure that the members will happily share outcomes with tutor groups. Unfortunately, looking at the list of pupils who have arrived late to school since January, it appears that a number of Sixth Form students have arrived after the bell has gone to signal the start of school. This week is a perfect opportunity to make a real effort to get to school on time and take our brothers, sisters and friends with us to set an example for the rest of the school.

TRIPS TO SAINSBURYS
THE SCHOOL DAY IS A SHORT DAY AND IT IS A WORKING DAY!!!!!!!! Thank you for responding positively to my request last week and not going to Sainsbury during the day.

FOOTBALL TEAM
Good luck for the match on Wednesday – hopefully the success of the rugby team will rub off on you all!

YEAR 12 NOTICES
ENRICHMENT OPTIONS
Following the break over the exam period, Enrichment is now compulsory again. All students must have signed up on the sheets on my office door … choose now … or do not get a choice!!!

HIGHER CONFERENCE
Year 12 will be receiving information (letter and photocopied booklets) shortly on a vital event in your preparation for life after BGN. Watch this space!

TUESDAY 26TH JANUARY: PSME PERIOD 1
After assembly on Tuesday, all Year 12 students will stay behind to discuss their progress towards achieving the COMMUNITY LEADERS AWARD. Mr Lloyd, Mr Sturla and myself will then take their respective groups and give each of you all your logbooks.

HIGHER EDUCATION NEWS

FOR ALL STUDENTS APPLYING TO UNIVERSITY THIS YEAR OR NEXT
As I know some of you are aware, there has been a delay in the launch of the Student Finance Service. The Student Finance England service for September 2010 Entrants to HEI has now opened
New students can go on-line and access a range of services at Direct.gov.uk/studentfinance.
Use the Student Finance Calculator to get an estimate of how much funding they may get.
Register for a Student Finance England account.
Login and apply for 2009/2010 and 2010/2011 student finance.
All prospective students are encouraged to start their applications process as soon as possible.

Have a great week

Mr Martin

What Courses do you Offer?

USEFUL DOCUMENTS

Sixth Form Application Form

Sixth Form Pupil Contract

Sixth Form Pupil Handbook

Sixth Form Option Blocks 2009/2010

Selected slides from “Sixth Form Open Evening”

Selected slides from “Sixth Form Expectations Evening”

(the above will be available to download from the website shortly)

CONTACT DETAILS

Please email Mr Chris Martin (Head of Sixth Form): 6thform.bgn@bgn.oxon.sch.uk

Sixth Form Bulletin

Dear Students,

A PRAYER AT TIME OF EXAMINATIONS
Lord, I need your help
I need a calm mind; grant me your peace
I need a clear head; grant me your wisdom
I need to be careful; grant me your patience
I need to be inspired; grant me your enthusiasm
Keep me from all panic as I put my trust in your power to keep me this day

WELL DONE LAST WEEK
We have all had a frustrating start to 2010 with a lot disruption. From what I have seen and heard, your conduct around school when there has been the temptation to be silly with the snow has been an example to the rest of the school – we even had a wonderful ice sculpture for Art (thanks Ross and Harry!). Furthermore, speaking to the Examinations Secretary, you have been a credit to yourselves in how you have behaved in the recent examinations. THANK YOU!

VALUABLES IN THE COMMON ROOM
Last week we had an incident in which a valuable item went missing from our common room. While this could have been accidentally lost, it may also have been stolen. While this is a very rare occurrence at BGN, to avoid anything similar happening again, I would like to remind all students to not leave valuable items unattended in the common room.

TRIPS TO SAINSBURYS
THE SCHOOL DAY IS A SHORT DAY AND IT IS A WORKING DAY!!!!!!!! Students are allowed out of school at break and lunchtimes if you sign out using the book in the common room. However, quite simply, no student should be out of school during a non-contact period to purchase food or drink from Sainsburys. This rule has been in place all year and has not changed. I want to treat you like adults, please behave in an adult way and respect this policy which is in your interests.

EMA
The government has just recently published “16-19 Statement of Priorities 2010 – 11”. This document gives details of the planned investment in young people’s learning over the next few years. It does state that EMA will cease after this year. More information to follow.

WORK EXPERIENCE
All Year 12 students should have returned their WORK EXPERIENCE PLACEMENT FORM to Mrs Garrett. If you have been unable, please make sure you see Mrs Garrett (rather than either of us have to come looking for you) to explain the progress you have made.

YEAR 12 HIGHER CONFERENCE
Year 12 will be receiving information (letter and photocopied booklets) shortly on a vital event in your preparation for life after BGN. Watch this space!

REMEMBER THE CONDITIONS OF EXAM LEAVE
 A fixed period of study leave is disruptive and not effective exam preparation for the majority of our students.
 Our policy will therefore be that pupils attend all lessons and tutor periods throughout the aforementioned exam period.
 The only exception will be that when pupils have an exam in afternoon, they will not be required to be in school until PM registration.
 Under all circumstances, students are expected to speak to their teachers to ask to be excused from class and collect any material in advance that they may miss.

HIGHER EDUCATION NEWS
1) PLEASE SEE THE ATTACHED POSTERS FOR OXFORD AND CAMBRIDGE OPPORTUNITIES

2) USEFUL CONFERENCES
There are a number conferences for students who want to enter the medical and legal professions coming up;
Improve Your Chances of Becoming a Doctor
Saturday 27 February 2010, 10:00am-4:30pm, at University College London
Improve Your Chances of Becoming a Lawyer
Saturday 6 March 2010, 10:00am-4:30pm, at The College of Law in London
Improve Your Chances of Becoming a Doctor
Saturday 20 March 2010, 10.00am-4.30pm, at The University of Manchester
For full details, including costs and the application form, please visit our website (www.epoc.org.uk ).

3) SUTTON TRUST SUMMER SCHOOLS
In 2010, Sutton Trust Summer School are once again running at Bristol, Cambridge and Nottingham Universities. These are a great opportunity for high achieving young people to get a taste of life at a research led University. I would highly recommend such courses. Further information is available at www.suttontrust.com

4) UCAS APPLICATIONS
Three important reminders to Year 13 students
1) Make sure if you change address, email or phone numbers that you update your contact information on the UCAS website. Pupils every year miss out on key information by forgetting to update their details.
2) Once you have received your offers, make sure you reply (see the guidelines on the website or see me or your tutors for advice)!

Mr Martin

What A Levels does BGN offer?

Religious Education is a compulsory part of the curriculum. Consequently all students follow a course leading to the award of the Certificate and Diploma of Catholic Social Teaching and Bioethics, validated by the Oxford Delegation of Examination Awards.

We offer the following courses at both AS and A2 Level:

Art
Biology
Business Studies
Chemistry
Drama
English Literature
English Language
French
Further Mathematics
Government and Politics
Geography
Graphics
History
ICT
Mathematics
Music
Philosophy and Theology
Physical Education
Psychology
Product Design
Spanish
Textiles
Travel and Tourism

In addition, we offer the following vocational courses:

BTech Diploma in Sport

Btech Travel and Tourism

Please see 'Post 16 links withing Banbury' for details on how we may be able to offer students a broader range of subject.

Sixth Form Bulletin

Dear Students,

JANUARY A LEVEL EXAMS COMMENCING MONDAY 11TH JANUARY
School will be open for A Level exams from 11th January irrespective of weather conditions and even if the school is closed to all other pupils. Exams will start at the times shown on the BGN timetable you received before Christmas. As these are modular exams, any candidates who may be unable to attend due to adverse weather conditions will be entered in June 2010. The only exception is for legacy specification (AQA & Edexcel only) where this is a last re-sit opportunity. In this case special consideration may apply.

For all examinations, make sure you are fully prepared; familiar with the equipment you need but also the rubric of the exam.

MAKE AN EFFORT TO COME IN FOR LESSONS AS WELL ... LIKE THE TEACHERS!
Yesterday, 15 staff came into school and worked hard clearing paths with shovels. A digger was also hired to clear the car park! As I write this (Friday 8th) school is therefore open to selected students. Many Sixth Form students are actually in school and are having one to one tuition and working on coursework under teacher guidance. It has been a very useful day as a result. We don’t know what will happen next week with the weather but please make all the reasonable and safe efforts you can to get into school.

WHEN IN SCHOOL … REMEMBER THE CONDITIONS OF EXAM LEAVE
A fixed period of study leave is disruptive and not effective exam preparation for the majority of our students.

Our policy will therefore be that pupils attend all lessons and tutor periods throughout the aforementioned exam period.
The only exception will be that when pupils have an exam in afternoon, they will not be required to be in school until PM registration.
Under all circumstances, students are expected to speak to their teachers to ask to be excused from class and collect any material in advance that they may miss.

WORK EXPERIENCE
All Year 12 students should have returned their WORK EXPERIENCE PLACEMENT FORM to Mrs Garrett by MONDAY 11TH JANUARY. If you have been unable, please make sure you see Mrs Garrett (rather than either of us have to come looking for you) to explain the progress you have made.

UCAS APPLICATIONS
Three important reminders to Year 13 students

1) The final deadline for applications is 15th January.
2) Make sure if you change address, email or phone numbers that you update your contact information on the UCAS website. Pupils every year miss out on key information by forgetting to update their details.
3) Once you have received your offers, make sure you reply (see the guidelines on the website or see me or your tutors for advice)!

SUTTON TRUST SUMMER SCHOOLS
In 2010, Sutton Trust Summer School are once again running at Bristol, Cambridge and Nottingham Universities. These are a great opportunity for high achieving young people to get a taste of life at a research led University. I would highly recommend such courses. Further information is available at www.suttontrust.com

Mr Martin

Sixth Form Bulletin

Dear Students,

CHRISTMAS MEAL
Make sure you have seen Sophie White and Annie Hogg to know the arrangements for the Christmas Meal tonight.

EXCELLENT ROLE MODELS
Thank you for your excellent conduct during the PENITENTIAL SERVICES & SENIOR CITZENS PARTY last week.

EMAY PAYMENTS
For all pupils who collect EMAY PAYMENTS, there is new form to use when collecting signatures from subject staff. You now must have attendance at registration signed from after Christmas as well.

SIXTH FORM RUGBY TEAM
Good luck this week in your COUNTY CUP FINAL! More details to follow on Monday if any students are interested in going along to support.

FRIDAY 18th DECEMBER
As you are all aware Friday is the last of term (we return on Monday 4th January). There will be a Carol Service in the morning followed by the Christmas Concert run by the Sixth Form Student Council. As the Carol Service is a formal school event, SMART DRESS is required all day. I would like to remind you that attendance is not optional and so if you are absent, you will be required to contact the school as normal. Anyway, who would want to miss the wonderful Youth Choir and the BGN XMAS FACTOR!!!??!!

WORK EXPERIENCE
All Year 12 students should have received a letter detailing the procedure for work experience. Please give it your close attention. Year 13 students may be able to offer you some invaluable advice.

LUNCH QUEUES
As you are all aware, Sixth Form students may walk through the queues to get served from the canteen. Please note you are not permitted to push in around the sides of the queues – this causes mayhem for the kitchen staff serving pupils. You must walk through the queues. Failure to do this will mean that this privilege you were so keen for will have to be withdrawn.

UCAS APPLICATIONS
All pupils applying to University should have sent their application to UCAS.

MAY GOD BLESS ONE AND ALL WITH A WONDERFUL HAPPY AND HOLY CHRISTMAS!

May Peace be your gift at Christmas and your blessing all year through!
Author Unknown

Sixth Form Bulletin

Dear Students,

MONDAY 7TH DECEMBER
There is a meeting for all SENIOR PREFECTS in the COMMON ROOM STUDY AREA at BREAK today please. It is very important – all to attend.

WEDNESDAY 9TH DECEMBER: PENITENTIAL SERVICES
To prepare for Christmas, Advent is a time where we reflect on our own lives and our daily actions. In order to do this, throughout Wednesday, each younger year group will be having a separate Penitential Service in the Drama studio led by one of our local Priests. As Sixth Form students, you may attend any Service throughout the day as long as you attend one! Please note that attending is not optional – you are all expected to do so (the Catholic life of our Sixth Form is not an optional extra, it is why we are here!). Thank you for responding wonderfully well and setting an example to the rest of the school.

PROGRESS REPORTS
Every student in the school received a PROGRESS REPORT by post last week. Whether your parents will be coming into speak to your form tutor or not, all pupils must have returned the reply slip asap.

** REPEAT NOTICE FROM LAST WEEK DUE TO ILLNESS **
SURVIVING YOUR WORKLOAD
Pupils in the Sixth Form often experience stress and pressure during the school year as you do have a lot to do! If there are any students in either Year 12 or Year 13 that feel under a lot of pressure and feel like you either want to get it off your chest or see if there is anything the school can do to help you, please come for a piece of cake, a coffee and a chat to the common room at Tuesday break.

SENIOR CITIZENS PARTY
Please make sure we all bring in appropriate items asap.

COMMON ROOM
Make sure you keep this area tidy by leaving your big A4 files in the cupboards rather than on chairs and the floor.

CHRISTMAS MEAL
Make sure you have seen Sophie White and Annie Hogg to know the arrangements for the Christmas Meal next Monday evening.

CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS
If you have any spare unwanted decorations for the common room, please bring them in!!!

UCAS APPLICATIONS
All pupils applying to University should have sent their application to UCAS.

SIXTH FORM RUGBY TEAM
Good luck this week in your COUNTY CUP SEMI-FINAL! I hope it is not canceled again!!!

STUDENT COUNCIL
Meeting this Tuesday 1.30pm

A small body of determined spirits fired by an unquenchable faith in their mission can alter the course of history.
Gandhi

Mr Martin

Sixth Form Bulletin

Dear Students,

WELL DONE LAST WEEK
Unfortunately I was out of school on Friday but I am eagerly awaiting reports from OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD, the YEAR 13 DRAMA GROUP as well as the visit of our guest speaker LORD FAULKNER. I am sure they were all fantastic experiences for all involved and I thank you for your excellent behaviour and participation.

PROGRESS REPORTS
Every student in the school received a PROGRESS REPORT by post last week. Whether your parents will be coming into speak to your form tutor or not, all pupils must return the reply slip asap. This is essential for school records.

WEDNESDAY 2nd DECEMBER
Today you are not in school as Year 11 are being Sixth Form students for the day. MAKE SURE YOU USE THE TIME EFFECTIVELY – A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO REVISE FOR YOUR JANUARY EXAMS AND/OR CATCH UP ON ANY OUTSTANDING C/WK.

CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS
As we are now in the season of Advent, we will shortly be decorating the common room for Christmas. If you have any spare unwanted decorations, please bring them in!!!

SENIOR CITZENS PARTY
As a Sixth From, we do a lot for different charities throughout the year. However, last year the response of the Sixth Form to the appeal for donations to the Old People’s Party was not as I would have hoped for. This year, it will be very different! Please make sure we all bring in appropriate items asap.

SURVIVING YOUR WORKLOAD
Pupils in the Sixth Form often experience stress and pressure during the school year as you do have a lot to do! If there are any students in either Year 12 or Year 13 that feel under a lot of pressure and feel like you either want to get it off your chest or see if there is anything the school can do to help you, please come for a piece of cake, a coffee and a chat to the common room at Tuesday break.

UCAS APPLICATIONS
All pupils applying to University should have sent their application to UCAS. TO SEE WHAT STAGE YOUR APPLICATION IS AT, PLEASE SEE THE NOTICEBOARD IN THE COMMON ROOM FOR THE LATEST NEWS.

FRIDAY PERIOD 1
PSHE for the whole school. Year 12 go to PE Department as normal for CLA.

SIXTH FORM RUGBY TEAM
Good luck this week in your COUNTY CUP SEMI-FINAL

STUDENT COUNCIL
Meeting this Tuesday 1.30pm

Any fool can make things bigger, more complex and more violent. It takes a touch of genius - and a lot of courage - to move in the opposite direction.
Albert Einstein

Mr Martin

Sixth Form Bulletin

Dear Students,

OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD
Last chance! Please see Mrs Conway asap with your �10 if you are willing and able to help packing the shoe boxes on Thursday.

SENIOR CITIZEN PARTY
As a Sixth From, we do a lot for different charities throughout the year. However, last year the response of the Sixth Form to the appeal for donations to the Old People’s Party was not as I would have hoped for. This year, it will be very different! Please bring in appropriate items (please refer to the letter you received last week from Mrs Childs) and leave them in the common room so we can track how many items we have brought in.

VISIT BY LORD FAULKNER
On Friday this week, Lord Faulkner - a peer in the House of Lords - will be talking to all the Sixth Form. Mrs Moss has organised him to come and talk to us and we are very fortunate – I know it will be an enriching educational experience. This will take place in the LRC during period 5. This is not an optional event. Students are expected to dress appropriately for such an occasion.

SPECIAL EFFORT TO KEEP OUR ENVIRONMENT CLEAN AND TIDY
You have treated the facilities in the common room very well for the vast majority of the time this year. A week last Friday was the first time this year that the common room has been left really untidy. If everybody makes a little effort to pick up their cups and wrappers like you have last week, the environment is much better for everybody.

DRAMA STUDIO
Year 13 Drama students are performing at 7.30pm on Thursday evening. It would be great support them in their performance – I hope to see as many of you there as possible.

IT PROVISION
1) If you want to bring your laptop into school and access the internet, you must see Mr Buzzard and there is a �5 administration charge to pay (your laptop needs to be tested before it can be used). If you do bring it in, you do so at your own risk.
2) Most students work really effectively and well in the LRC – thank you and your efforts are appreciated by all staff. Some students have, however, been playing games upstairs in the LRC. This is an abuse of your freedom and will not happen again.

“SAFE DRIVE, STAY ALIVE”
Thank you to all Year 12 students who went out of school on Tuesday. Your behaviour was superb and I know that you were touched by what you saw.

SIXTH FORM RUGBY TEAM
Congratulations on another excellent win. Full report to follow in assembly.

STUDENT COUNCIL
Meeting this Tuesday 1.30pm

“The pessimist sees difficulty in every opportunity. The optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.” Sir Winston Churchill

Mr Martin

Sixth Form Bulletin

Dear Students,

“SAFE DRIVE, STAY ALIVE”
All Year 12 students will be out of school on Tuesday. Please see the Sixth Form noticeboard for details.

HOLLAND VISITS BGN THIS THURSDAY
THANK YOU to all students who assisted with the visit. You made quite an impression on them! A particular thank you to all those who stayed behind after school on Thursday to run and assist with the Gaelic Football.

SENIOR MATHS CHALLENGE
Well done to those students involved – Greg Murray tells me it was tough but a great experience!

QUESTIONAIRE ON FRIDAY
I will let you know the results in assembly and all will be discussed in the Student Council meeting.

“CHRIST THE KING”
Canon Mervyn has asked for students in St John’s Parish to assist with the liturgy on Sunday. If you attend St Johns, please let me know.

STUDENT COUNCIL
Meeting this Tuesday 1.30pm

“If God were small enough to be understood, he would not be big enough to be worshipped”
Evelyn Underhill

Mr Martin

Sixth Form Bulletin

Dear Students,

HAPPY FEAST DAY!
Thank you to all of you for dressing smart and setting an example to the younger pupils today.

HOLLAND VISITS BGN THIS THURSDAY
Registration this Thursday will be in the LRC where a group of students from Hollland will talk about their school experiences
After school, the students will be staying behind after school for some Gaelic Football led by some of our Sixth Form students. You are all very welcome to participate and certainly watch. I am certainly looking forward to a lot of fun!

THANK YOU
There was Sixth Form Open Evening last week for all Year 11 students considering joining us next week – you may remember it?! There were a number of students that represented you wonderfully and they deserve a mention by name;
• Annie, Tom and Adam opened the evening wonderfully and help create a really welcoming atmosphere with their musical talents
• Jack, Adam, Catlin, Jessica all gave outstanding talks – not only did they speak really well but the content of what they said was really insightful and showed a maturity beyond their years!
• Ryan Brown and Simon gave up time to help set up chairs and desks!
• Roisin, Osasere, Kayla, Sophie Knights and Sophie White were outstanding welcoming guests and even giving tours!

QUESTIONAIRE ON FRIDAY
There is a questionnaire that I would like all Year 12 pupils to complete on Friday during registration. It follows feedback I have received from the Student Council. Please take your time to complete the questionnaire as honestly and as constructively as possible. Details to be revealed on Friday!

OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHIILD
You should all have received a letter last week via your tutors. This is a wonderful opportunity to make a difference to the lives of needy people and help a really worthwhile charity, Samaritans Purse. It is a long day but one that will be ultimately very rewarding. Please see Mrs Conway for more details.

POPPIES
Jack Monk will be selling poppies this week. Please make an effort to purchase and wear one to set an example to younger pupils.

WEDNESDAY PERIOD 5
Year 12 have Enrichment as normal. Those that are going to the gym, the fee this year has increased to �2 per session and remember you need to meet Mr Sturla at the start of lunch. Please make sure your clothing is appropriate.

IT ACCESS
If you want to bring your laptop into school and access the internet, you must see Mr Buzzard and there is a �5 administration charge to pay (your laptop needs to be tested before it can be used). If you do bring it in, you do so at your own risk.

VOLUNTARY MASS
Thank you to WEBSTER who led us in mass on Friday and all those who came along to support them.

YEAR 12 PUPIL ASSISTED LEARNING
If you have not returned your form, please do so to Jack Monk asap.

LOURDES
Please return your reply slips to Mrs Brown asap.

“SAFE DRIVE, STAY ALIVE”
All Year 12 students should have returned �1 to Debbie Roberts. All Year 12 will go and it is a memorable and potentially life-changing presentation.

STUDENT COUNCIL
Meeting this Tuesday 1.30pm

HOCKEY
Well done to the Hockey team who played two matches this week! Results and report to follow in assembly.

GAELIC FOOTBALL
Well done to all those students who helped run the Festival for Primary Schools last Friday. Mr Lloyd tells me you were first class!

“Today is tough but Calvary was tougher. Thank you Jesus for loving me”

Mr Martin

Sixth Form News Bulletin

Dear Students,

WELCOME BACK

I hope you all enjoyed a lovely relaxing break and have returned rejuvenated!?

importance of GOOD HABITS

Your tutors and your teachers will be urging you this week to make sure you get off to a good start after the holiday. It is November already and many of you will be sitting exams in January. Every second really does count. ATTENDANCE, PUNCTUALITY AND MEETING DEADLINES ARE KEY TO EXAM SUCCESS. Nobody knows what exam questions you will be faced with but those 3 are things you can easily control. Give yourself every chance to succeed!

MASS TODAY

Monday 2nd November is THE COMMERMORATION OF ALL SOULS. As a result, there is mass today at lunchtime in the chapel. It is a wonderful opportunity to pray for deceased members of your family and friends. I hope to see many of you there.

VOLUNTARY MASS

WEBSTER will lead us in mass on Friday. I hope as many of us as possible will come along and support them.

UCAS APPLICATIONS

All pupils applying to University should have sent their application to UCAS. Many students from here have and thousands of students up and down the country are already receiving offers. The deadline set at the start of the year was the October holiday. If you have not sent your application, you must see me asap.

NEW COMPUTERS

I hope you like the 3 new computers in the common room? They are now up, running and fully functioning!

YEAR 12 Pupil
Assisted Learning

I hope the presentation you had by Mr Tim Marston (SENCO) was informative. This is a fantastic opportunity for Year 12 pupils to gain some real experience and skills as well as contribute to our school
community. The timetable is one the board in the common room. If you have not returned your form, please do so to Jack Monk asap.

PSHE PERIOD 5 ON WEDNESDAY

Year 12: Enrichment as normal

Year 13: Your timetabled lesson may not be taught as your teacher may be delivering PSHE to another class. Please check with your teacher and make sure you use any time gained effectively.

LOURDES

Please return your reply slips to Mrs Brown asap.

“Safe Drive, Stay Alive”

All Year 12 students should have returned �1 to Debbie Roberts. All Year 12 will go and it is a memorable and potentially life-changing presentation.

STUDENT COUNCIL

Meeting this Tuesday 1.30pm

FOOTBALL

It was a great performance against Banbury School last week and a much deserved victory. That is a record of played two, won two! The challenge is for the hockey and rugby teams to keep the good runs going! Shame that the pupils still haven’t been able to beat the staff at ANY sport yet …

“Speak when you are angry and you will make the best speech you will ever regret”

Ambrose Bierce

Mr Chris Martin

Sixth Form Bulletin

Dear Students

Trip to Aushwitz

I know the 30+ students who set off at 4am on Thursday will have returned tired but with their eyes opened after their trip. I am sure they are very grateful to the their staff for taking and organising such a trip. Report to follow in assembly.

UCAS APPLICATIONS

Year 13 pupils have been told their personal statements must be completed by now. You must see me as soon as your teacher have completed your references so we can send your application to UCAS
ALL APPLICATIONS SHOULD BE SENT OFF BEFORE OCTOBER HALF TERM YOU MUST SEND YOUR APPLICATION TO SCHOOL VIA THE SCHOOL WEBSITE THIS WEEK.
Your tutors will be checking your progress and encouraging you - you need to get moving this week!

PARENTS EVENING

Parents Evening is on Tuesday from 4-6pm. Please ensure you have given the letter to your parents. Your tutors will be chasing you up and checking that everybody is attending. IT IS A VITAL EVENING FOR EVERYBODY.

CHRISTMAS MEAL

Return money to Annie Hogg (Year 13) and Sophie White (Year 12) as soon as possible. The numbers are already good!

VOLUNTARY MASS

Thank you to those in CLITHEROW who took part in mass on Friday. The readers and music were wonderful. After half term, WEBSTER will lead us.

LOURDES ASSEMBLY

Mrs Weaver took assembly last week on the topic of Lourdes. Please return your reply slips to Mrs Brown asap. Assembly returns to normal time on Tuesday this week.

“Safe Drive, Stay Alive”

All Year 12 students should have returned �1 to Debbie Roberts. All Year 12 will go and it is a memorable and potentially life-changing presentation.

FRIDAY STAFF SPORT

Thanks to James Doran (Student Council Sport Rep) for arranging the HOCKEY match against the staff on Friday. It was a great match played in a good spirit … and the Sixth Form were very lucky to escape with a draw after being dominated by the staff! James will announce more sporting contests in the weeks to come.

FOOTBALL

It was a great performance against BCC during the week and a much deserved victory. See the noticeboard for a match report and team photo. Match vs Banbury this Wednesday.

STUDENT COUNCIL

Meeting every Tuesday 1.30pm. Members are to stand up and report back in tutor time on Thursday morning to improve communication between students and the Council

BEST WISHES

Enjoy a lovely relaxing holiday … work, rest and play hard!

“A person is but the product of their thoughts; what they think, they become.”

Gandhi

Mr Martin

Sixth Form News Bulletin

Dear Students,

SOLI HOUSE

It was wonderful to visit those Year 12 pupils at Soli House last week. I know the members of staff with you throughout the week were very impressed with your attitude and behaviour. I only saw people enjoying themselves, both spiritually and socially. The mass on Thursday evening was just wonderful … and probably more entertaining than the entertainments that followed!

VOLUNTARY MASS

This week a tutor group from the Sixth Form will be leading Voluntary Mass on Friday lunchtime. Your Pupil Leadership Team will be inviting you all to attend in tutor time. It would be great to keep the spirit of Soli going!!!

UCAS APPLICATIONS

Year 13 pupils have been told their personal statements must be completed by last day in September. 3 students have sent their applications to UCAS already – it should be more!

“Safe Drive, Stay Alive”

�
All Year 12 students should have returned �1 to Debbie Roberts. All Year 12 will go and it is a memorable and potentially life-changing presentation.

FRIDAY STAFF SPORT

James Doran (Student Council Sport Rep) has arranged a match against the staff for Friday after school. Anyone interested, see him asap.

U19 football vs Chenderit school

First match of the season after school on Thursday. Anyone interested, see Jacob Whitlock.

STUDENT COUNCIL

Meeting every Tuesday 1.30pm

Members are to stand up and report back in tutor time on Thursday morning to improve communication between students and the Council

WATCH THIS SPACE: There will be some news shortly detailing the arrangements for the Christmas meal.

Debating

�
Andrew Pryde & Jack Cato represented the Sixth Form at the Central England Debating Competition held last week at Chenderit School

�
Full report to follow

Anyone interested, see any of those students and Tom Stafford (Year 12 Debating Rep)

“Be the change you want to see in the world”

Mr Martin

Sixth Form Weekly Bulletin

Dear Students,

WEEKLY BULLETIN

This is a first! The first of many! I am going to write a weekly bulletin to all students in the Sixth Form. It will be addressed to students but also read and referred to constantly throughout the week by tutors. In addition, it will be put on the school website so that parents can also see what is going on in the Sixth Form.

SOLI HOUSE

I wish all students going to Soli this week a wonderful time, both spiritually and socially! I look forward to seeing you for mass and for the entertainments!

SIXTH FORM SUPPLEMENT

Keep a good theme going!!! A big well done to Sophie White, Alice Guile and Rosin Welby for their fantastic SIXTH FORM SUPPLEMENT (part of the whole school NEWSLETTER that went home on Friday).

SENIOR PREFECTSSuccessful applicants in Year 13 were given their badges in assembly and their duties started last week. Mrs Weaver has arranged for food and drinks for all students last week in recognition of how valued the role prefects play in a smooth running school. Make sure you set a good example for the Year 11 Prefects to follow!

STUDENT COUNCIL

Meeting every Tuesday 1.30pm

Members are to stand up and report back in tutor time on Thursday morning to improve communication between students and the Council

Debating

Andrew Pryde, Adam Smith, Jessica Saunders and Jack Cato were incredible last week at Cheney
School in a workshop run by the Cambridge Debating Society Bring on the next debate at Chenderit School! Anyone interested, see any of those students and Tom Stafford (Year 12 Debating Rep)

Kitchen money and damage deposit. All monies should now be paid. Any students who have not paid are not allowed to use facilities until the money is paid unless they have seen me

UCAS APPLICATIONS

Year 13 pupils have been told their personal statements must be completed by last day in September.3 students have sent their applications to UCAS already – it should be more!

SIGNING IN AND OUT: PUPIL LEAVES SCHOOL AND IS COMING BACK TO SCHOOL THE SAME DAY

If a pupil leaves school at break or lunch for example, they must sign out using the yellow book in the common room (this is in case of a fire alarm)

SIGNING IN AND OUT: PUPIL ARRIVES LATE OR LEAVES SCHOOL AND IS NOT COMING BACK FOR THE DAY

If a pupil is late or leaves school due to doctor’s appointment for example, they must sign out in the front
office

When pupils sign out at the front office, your register will be altered

Year 12 timetables

All pupils will got their final timetableprinted again Where “SU” in the “library” is indicated, that is a supervised study session with a teacher It is compulsory for all Year 12 students to be in the LRC during those sessions. All students know about this and I warned them in my expectations talk

“Safe Drive, Stay Alive”

All Year 12 students should have returned �1 to Debbie Roberts. All Year 12 will go and it is a memorable and potentially life-changing presentation.

RE-SITS

Chris Radcliffe is making entries for re-sitting of modules in January. All re-sit forms must be to her by Friday 9th October (office near the English Department)

INSET DAY

The best until last? Friday 2nd October is an INSET DAY and so pupils are not required to be in school.

School day … IT IS A short day … make it a working day!

Mr Martin

6th Form New Intake information

Dear Parent / Guardian

SIXTH FORM APPLICATIONS SEPTEMBER 2009: IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Flying Start

After speaking to plenty of students and receiving feedback from staff, the Flying Start Day and AS Preparation Classes at the end of June were a real success. I would like to thank your son or daughter for their positive contribution and am now very much looking forward to welcoming the best ever prepared and biggest Year 12 into the Sixth Form next September.

AS Course Registration

All students who wish to be in the Sixth Form next year will be required to come to school at 5pm on Wednesday 2nd September together with their parents. I will initially outline policies and procedures we have in the Sixth Form. Outlining these expectations will take approximately 30 minutes. Following this, subject teachers will be based in their classrooms and students will be required to go with their parents to register for their AS courses. This will provide a brief opportunity for students to discuss their suitability for specific courses and ask any final questions. Furthermore, where work has been set over the summer, subject teachers will expect students to produce their completed assignments there and
then. This will act as a powerful indicator of pupil’s ability to work independently but also their enthusiasm and readiness for Advanced Level study. I am really excited about the evening and am convinced it will help staff and parents work closely together to ensure your son or daughter gets the most of their time in the Sixth Form.

Options Blocks

I am now in a position to clarify the timetable and option blocks for next academic year (please see the attached sheet). We will be running ICT next year. Unfortunately, after much thought and deliberation, we have decided not to run AS Psychology next year. Although we could employ staff from outside agencies until April to meet the high demand from pupils, we cannot guarantee the quality of teaching. It would be wrong for us to risk poor results and the potential consequences for pupils applying to University next year. However, we do promise to offer all students the opportunity to do AS Psychology next year when they are in Year 13.

School start

Timetabled lessons for all pupils will begin at 8.40am on Thursday 3rd September. Please note that failure to attend the Course Registration Evening will mean your son and daughter will not be able to begin their studies with the rest of the year group.

Higher Education Evening

From 7pm on Wednesday 9th September David Seaton (Admissions Officer, The University of Northampton) will be in school to speak to all parents and pupils for our annual Higher Education
Evening. He will outline the UCAS application process and financial implications of applying for university. Traditionally, only Year 13 pupils have attended this evening but Year 12 parents are welcome to attend if they want to preview and know what is coming in advance.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me at school. I will be available to talk through any issues in person on GCSE Results Day. May I take this opportunity to wish you and your son or daughter every success in their forthcoming GCSE examinations and a much deserved and enjoyable summer break.

Yours sincerely,

Mr Chris Martin - Head of Sixth Form