St Pius X High School

St Pius X High School

Magherafelt

Prospectus

2000/2001

MISSION STATEMENT

‘St Pius X High School, in partnership with parents and the community, seeks to enable pupils to discover and develop their talents and aptitudes in an environment permeated by Catholic values, so that they will be able to participate actively and responsibly in society now and in the future’.

CONTENTS

FOREWORD

1 GENERAL INFORMATION

2 SCHOOL AIMS

3 ADMISSION CRITERIA - SCHOOL YEAR 2000/2001:

(a) For Year 8 Pupils

(b) Applications received after the beginning of the school year

4 CLASS ORGANISATION

5 ARRANGEMENTS FOR LUNCH

6 PASTORAL CARE - YEAR TUTOR / FORM TEACHER

7 CARE FOR PUPILS WHO TAKE ILL OR WHO SUFFER INJURY

8 DRUGS POLICY

9 CURRICULUM

10 EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITY

11 CHARGES AND REMISSION POLICY

12 HOMEWORK AND HOMESTUDY

13 DISCIPLINE POLICY

14 SCHOOL RULES ON DRESS AND STYLE

15 ACCEPTABLE USE OF THE INTERNET:

Policy Summary
Advice for Parents on their children’s use of the Internet.

16 REVIEW AND AMENDMENTS

17 SCHOOL PERFORMANCE 1998/99

FOREWORD

St Pius X High School

59 Moneymore Road

Magherafelt

Co Derry

Tel No: 01648 - 32186 (2 lines)

Fax No: 01648 - 32573

This Prospectus aims to inform parents and children of the quality of life, policies, organisation and the teaching/learning activities which are promoted in St Pius X High School.

It is the basic philosophy of the school that every pupil must be given the maximum opportunity for a worthwhile education. This means more than academic achievement or success in examinations. As a Catholic school our over-riding aim is to establish and foster Christian values for life; to do this it is essential that we work in partnership with all our parents and with the Church. Growth in personal development, self-discipline, understanding of our religion; education in practical and social skills, vocational guidance; development of sporting talents and leisure interests - all of these are important goals.

By striving towards all of these goals the school has built up a sound reputation over the years. This is reflected in the fact that the current enrolment of 852 pupils is well above the school’s authorised enrolment figure of 825.

I hope the knowledge and impression gained from this booklet and from visiting the school will encourage parents to choose St Pius X High School for their children.

Principal

1 GENERAL INFORMATION

PRINCIPAL:

CHAIRMAN OF BOARD OF GOVERNORS:

Canon C O’Byrne PP

SCHOOL ADDRESS and TELEPHONE NUMBER:

St Pius X High School

59 Moneymore Road

MAGHERAFELT

Co Derry

BT45 6HQ

Telephone: 01648 - 32186 (2 lines)

Fax: 01648 - 32573

E-Mail: StPiusX@SCHOOLS.CLASS-NI.0RG.UK

WEB:

http://www.rmplc.co.uk/eduweb/sites/stpiusxi/index.html

AUTHORISED ENROLMENT: 825

CLASSIFICATION

St Pius X High, Magherafelt, is a mixed gender Catholic Maintained School, for day pupils - age range 11 - 16 years.

EDUCATION AND LIBRARY BOARD AREA:

The School is situated in the North Eastern Education and Library Board (NEELB) area but pupils from the Southern Education and Library Board (SELB) area are also enrolled. Information for parents, published by the Education and Library Board is available from NEELB, County Hall, Ballymena. Copies are distributed to parents of pupils who are transferring, through the Primary Schools. Reference copies are also available at St Pius X High School or from the Public Library Service.

ARRANGEMENTS FOR PARENTS TO VISIT THE SCHOOL:

Parents and prospective pupils may visit the school on any day by appointment. There is a special OPEN EVENING on Monday 31^st January, 2000, commencing at 7 30 pm.

SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 2000/2001

School Holidays, planned for the School Year 2000/2001, are as follows:

SCHOOL DAYS

1 - 31 August 2000 23

30 - 31 October 2000 2

1 November 2000 1

8 December 2000 1

22 - 31 December 2000 6

1 - 5 January 2001 5

29 January 2001 1

16 - 19 February 2001 2

13 - 20 April 2001 6

7 May 2001 1

1 - 31 July 2001 22

+ held in reserve 1

NOTE: There may have to be some alteration to the above; if this is the case parents will be informed in good time.

2 SCHOOL AIMS

The Aims of St Pius X High School are set down as follows:

To enable all pupils to discover and develop their talents in relation to knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes in an environment where learning is an enjoyable experience by:

providing all pupils with access to a broad and balanced curriculum.
employing a range of teaching methods and learning experiences both inside and outside the classroom.
striving to ensure that the most appropriate facilities, resources, equipment, and materials are available.
using appropriate assessment procedures to motivate pupils and encourage success.
keeping pupils and parents informed of progress and achievement.
making provision for pupils with special needs and

facilitating associated staff development.

encouraging good relationships within the classroom and school in general.

To give all pupils the experience of a Catholic education by:

i. fostering their growth in and understanding of the Faith.

ii. promoting an appreciation of fairness, tolerance and forgiveness by word and example.

iii. helping to achieve high standards of respect, self-discipline, commitment and generosity.

To further the working partnership between the school and the community by:

i. involving parents in all aspects of their children’s education.

ii. developing closer links with ‘feeder’ primary schools.

iii. fostering co-operation and communication with other schools.

iv. providing opportunities for pupils to be involved in various forms of community service.

v. involving community groups and representatives in the life of the school.

vi. expanding the network of school/industry links.

To enable pupils to realise the importance of active participation in all relevant aspects of life and to encourage them to become responsible adults by:

encouraging pupils to act as responsible members of their families and communities.
preparing pupils for their future roles.
promoting a responsible lifestyle in relation to health, fitness and leisure.
raising awareness of environmental issues and individual/community responsibilities.
promoting understanding of and respect for the culture, faith and tradition of others.

3 (a) ADMISSIONS CRITERIA - for YEAR 8 PUPILS -

SCHOOL YEAR 2000/2001

Introduction

All applicants will be admitted, provided the number of applicants does not exceed the school’s admission and enrolment numbers as determined by the Department of Education.

If the school is over-subscribed pupils will be admitted according to the Criteria 1 - 8 in the order set down. Each application will be considered according to the criterion to which it belongs in the order set down.

Pupils resident in Northern Ireland at the time of their proposed admission to the school will be admitted before any pupil not so resident will be considered.

Attention is drawn to notes (i), (ii) and (iii) included with the criteria.

Pupils who normally reside in the following parishes:

Magherafelt including Castledawson.

Ardtrea North including Newbridge and Ballymaguigan.

Ardtrea including Loup and Moneymore

Ballinderry.

Note (i)

If over-subscribed on criterion 1 priority will be given as follows:

To pupils with brothers/sisters enrolled.
To pupils with family members previously enrolled.
On the basis of the proximity of the Parents’/Guardians’ home to the school.

Pupils normally residing in the parishes of Bellaghy, Desertmartin, Lavey, Lissan, Ardboe, Coagh and attending primary schools:

located in the parishes specified in 3.1 above
located in the parishes specified in 3.2 herein

(priority will be given in the order specified at (i) then (ii) above)

Note (ii)

If oversubscribed on criterion 2, priority will be given as follows:

To pupils with brothers/sisters enrolled
To pupils with family members previously enrolled
On the basis of the proximity of the Parents’/Guardians’ home to the school.

Pupils who have brothers and sisters presently enrolled in the school, irrespective of parish of residence.

Pupils who are children of permanent employees of the school, irrespective of parish of residence.
Pupils for whom special circumstances apply eg: Social Services Report, Security Reasons, irrespective of parish of residence. The Board of Governors will determine the merits of individual cases. Appropriate documented evidence must be provided.
Pupils residing in parishes other than those already referred to and attending primary schools located in the parishes specified in 3.1 above; preference will be given to pupils residing in parishes located in NEELB area.
Pupils residing in parishes other than those already referred to and attending primary schools located in the parishes specified in 3.2 above; preference will be given to pupils residing in parishes located in NEELB area.
Pupils residing in other parishes who do not meet any of the criteria detailed above; preference will be given to pupils residing in parishes located in NEELB area.

Note (iii)

If over-subscribed on any one criterion from 3.3 to 3.8 inclusive, priority will be given as follows:

To pupils who have had a brother or sister previously enrolled.
To pupils who have had other family members previously enrolled - father and mother, father or mother, aunt/uncle in that order.
On the basis of the proximity of the Parents’/Guardians’ home to the school.

(b) YEAR 8 ADMISSIONS AFTER THE BEGINNING OF THE

SCHOOL YEAR - SCHOOL YEAR 2000/2001

The criteria cited above will be applied to cover applications for admission to Year 8 received after the beginning of the school year.

They will be utilised when the number of applications is greater than the number of vacant places available.

(c) CRITERIA FOR TRANSFER BETWEEN SECONDARY SCHOOLS

1999/2000 - ADMISSIONS CRITERIA - YEARS 9 - 12

Applications for transfer to St Pius X High School from other Secondary Schools will be considered provided that the school’s enrolment number, as determined by the Department of Education, is not exceeded by any additional admission.

1 A pupil will be refused permission to join the St Pius X High School community when the Board of Governors is of the opinion that his/her enrolment would prejudice the efficient use of the school’s resources. {Article 13(5) of the Education (NI) Order 1997}.

2 In the event of more applications than places being available at a particular time and/or in a particular year group, selection will be determined in accordance with the order in which the criteria set out below are listed.

Preference will be given to applicants as follows:

To pupils:

living closest to the school on the basis of the proximity of the Parent’s/Guardians’ home to the school as measured by the shortest route.
with brothers/sisters currently enrolled at the school.
with family members (a) currently and (b) previously enrolled.

Parents should make written application, in the first instance, to the Principal attaching the most recent school report of the child for whom the admission is sought. Accepting parental desire to have their children placed in appropriate schools and in order to avoid disruption to their education, such applications will be dealt with as soon as possible following their receipt by the Principal.

ROLE OF THE PRINCIPAL

The Board of Governors has delegated to the Principal the responsibility to examine the applications for transfer, to interview parents and students if deemed necessary, to establish whether the criteria are met and to advise the Board accordingly. Having examined the advice given the Board will confirm/make decisions as appropriate.

4 CLASS ORGANISATION

On entry, pupils are organised into 3 groups or bands according to their attainment in their Primary Schools. In addition to attainment in Reading, English and Mathematics scores on standardised tests are used to assist with class placement. Pupils with difficulties in these subject areas are identified and placed in small classes of approximately 20 pupils, where special help including individual attention is provided, with the aim of correcting these difficulties in the early years of their secondary education. Pupils in other groups or bands are placed in mixed ability classes, with approximately the same number of pupils in each class. All classes follow the same programme of subjects and no distinction is made between classes in this respect. There is a total of 7 classes in each of the first 3 years, but division into smaller groups is always necessary for practical subjects where numbers are limited in accordance with Department of Education regulations. In Years 11 and 12, pupils are organised into groups of approximately 25. Classes for Subjects are arranged according to statutory requirements, and pupil choice where possible.
THE SCHOOL DAY

The school day begins at 8 55 am with Assembly and ends at 3 30 pm. There is a 15 minute morning break 11 00 am to 11 15 am.

There are two 45 minute lunch breaks:

1 12 25 to 1 10 pm - 2 Year Groups are served.

2 1 00 pm to 1 45 pm - 3 Year Groups are served.

CLASS PERIODS ARE AS FOLLOWS:

8 55 - 9 10: Assembly - Morning Prayer - Roll Call

9 15 - 9 50: Period 1

9 50 - 10 25: Period 2

10 25 - 11 00: Period 3

11 00 - 11 15: Morning Break

11 15 - 11 50: Period 4

11 50 - 12 25: Period 5

12 15 - 1 00: Period 6 (for pupils who go to lunch 2)

1 10 - 1 45: Period 7 (for pupils who go to lunch 1)

1 45 - 2 20: Period 8

1. - 2.55: Period 9

2 55 - 3 30: Period 10

5 ARRANGEMENTS FOR LUNCH

School regulations require that pupils remain on the school premises at lunch time - except for a small number from the town of Magherafelt who are able to go to their homes for lunch and return in good time for class. Parents of such pupils seek permission in writing at the beginning of the school year.

A cash cafeteria service is provided in the school dining hall. For pupils who bring a packed lunch facilities are available in the dining hall.

Comprehensive and caring supervision is provided each day by teams of teachers and supervisory assistants, thus ensuring that pupils can safely enjoy their lunch-break.

6 PASTORAL CARE - HEAD OF YEAR/FORM TEACHER

The policies, procedures and programmes for Pastoral Care and Personal and Social Education are the cornerstone for all activities that are part of St Pius X High School.

We believe that a caring a happy environment is essential for pupils to succeed, hence great care is taken to ensure that the transfer from primary to secondary school is as smooth as possible.

We have created a structure in which the care and guidance of pupils is undertaken by teachers at all levels including the Principal.

Each pupil has a Form Teacher whose role is to monitor and assist in all aspects of his/her personal, academic, social and vocational development. All Form Teachers meet their classes for prayer and registration each morning and during the weekly pastoral period. This provides an opportunity for them to get to know the pupils and to monitor their general progress in all aspects of school life.

Under the guidance of the Pastoral Co-ordinator, Year Heads and Form Teachers work closely in drawing up the Pastoral Programme. This programme identifies problems/concerns and if possible eradicates or alleviates them. Each member of the team has an important role in counselling the individual pupil and meeting with parents.

The School Chaplain, Fr J Russell, CC, also makes an important contribution to the programme. He is available to advise teachers and to support and counsel pupils on request.

7 CARE FOR PUPILS WHO TAKE ILL OR WHO SUFFER INJURY

A nurse/classroom assistant cares for sick or injured pupils. Parents can be assured that such pupils will get prompt attention and excellent care.

Parents are free to discuss with her details of any particular chronic illness from which a pupil may suffer and to leave with her medicines for dispensing. Guidance on the care of young people and detail on the above procedures will be provided to parents of incoming pupils prior to their arrival in the school.

8 DRUGS POLICY

The school is committed to the health and well being of all students. It is the policy of the school to keep the premises free from all illegal drugs and to give students the skills and knowledge to resist the use of drugs, including tobacco and alcohol.

Students who are known to be in possession of, distributing, selling, providing or using tobacco, alcohol or illegal substances in school, on school property or on school trips will be subject to pastoral/disciplinary measures, in accordance with school policy.

A copy of the full Drugs Policy is available on request from the school.

9 CURRICULUM

The curriculum planned and provided in the school is broad, balanced and relevant to the needs and aspirations of all pupils. In the first three years, KEY STAGE 3, a wide range of subjects and experiences are offered in order to develop the talents, skills, interests and abilities of each pupil. The requirements of the Northern Ireland Curriculum are accounted for within our overall provision. To ensure coherence and relevance in the curriculum all subjects/courses are taught within the context of the School Aims.

THE SUBJECTS STUDIED ARE:

ENGLISH RELIGIOUS EDUCATION

MATHEMATICS BUSINESS STUDIES

SCIENCE INFORMATION

COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY

FRENCH PHYSICAL EDUCATION

IRISH HOME ECONOMICS

HISTORY ART AND DESIGN

GEOGRAPHY TECHNOLOGY AND DESIGN

PSE DRAMA

MUSIC

All pupils are given the opportunity to experience the full range of subjects in their first three years.

KEY STAGE 4

In the Spring Term of Year 10, pupils choose the courses they wish to study during Year 11 and Year 12. All pupils are given the opportunity to take courses for public examination. Parents are fully informed towards the end of the Spring term about the options that are available to their children. The final choice of courses is made following thorough consultation between teachers, parents and pupils. The choice of courses taken will be in accordance with the requirements of the Northern Ireland Curriculum.

EXAMINATION COURSES in 2000 and 2001

i. GCSE

ART AND DESIGN IRISH

BUSINESS STUDIES MATHEMATICS

INFORMATION SYSTEMS MUSIC

ENGLISH LANGUAGE OFFICE APPLICATIONS

ENGLISH LITERATURE RELIGIOUS STUDIES

FRENCH SCIENCE:

GRAPHIC PRODUCTS Single Award/Double Award

GEOGRAPHY TECHNOLOGY & DESIGN

HISTORY TECHNOLOGY:

HOME ECONOMICS: Resistant Materials

Child Development PERSONAL and SOCIAL

Home Economics EDUCATION (Modular)

(ii) RSA

CLAIT

i. ACHIEVEMENT IN EDUCATION

LIVING MATHEMATICS ENGLISH

GEOGRAPHY GRAPHICAL & MATERIAL

HISTORY STUDIES

BUSINESS STUDIES

GRADED OBJECTIVES IN MODERN LANGUAGE

FRENCH

IRISH

AEB BASIC SKILLS

GEOGRAPHY

CROSS CURRICULAR THEMES

Cross Curricular Themes (EMU/Cultural Heritage, Health Education, ICT, Careers, Economic Awareness) are delivered through the Programmes of Study of the Northern Ireland Curriculum. These may be supplemented by modules or units of work in eg: Careers/Information Communications Technology.

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION

Religious Education is given priority in the Curriculum. The second of the school aims is to give pupils the experience of a Catholic Education, by fostering their growth in and understanding of their Faith.

The Religious Education Programme meets with the approval of the Armagh Diocesan adviser and satisfies all the requirements laid down in the NI Core RE Syllabus. The programme is about faith building, and gives opportunities for pupils to develop their relationship with God and with each other through the use of scripture, doctrine, prayer and reflection on their own experiences.

‘The New Christian Way’ Series is used as the main part of the programme for Years 8 - 10. This is a follow-on from ‘The Children of God’ Series used in the Primary School.

In Years 11 and 12, pupils follow either a GCSE Course or a course leading to The Diocesan Certificate. Both these courses provide opportunities for faith development.

Our Chaplain, Fr John Russell, from the Magherafelt parish, contributes to the Religious Programme. He is available for the celebration of Mass, prayer services, liturgies and individual counselling.

The Religious Programme is further enhanced by daily assemblies, class liturgies and regular visits from members of Religious Orders.

CAREERS EDUCATION

The aim of Careers Education in the school is to help pupils acquire the skills, attitudes and values they will need to identify their talents, and to use them to select a suitable career.

Through the careers programme pupils develop:

a knowledge and understanding of themselves;
a knowledge of the employment, training and educational opportunities available to them;
the ability to make considered choices and decisions.

In Years 11 and 12 during time-tabled Careers classes, pupils are given an understanding of the world of work, and the requirements or procedures for Further and Higher Education, Training and Employment. The programme involves pupils in activity-based learning ie: discussions, debates, role-play and projects. Each pupil compiles a job study and completes a personal career plan.

There are industry-linked activities including speakers and industrial visits. In Year 11 all pupils undergo a minimum of one week’s work experience. This is usually planned for the final weeks of the third term.

A Careers Officer from The Training and Employment Agency comes to the school one day each week and participates in the delivery of the programme.

SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS

It is our aim to provide learning opportunities for children who have numeracy and literacy problems, with a view to helping them achieve a satisfactory level of competence. At the beginning of Year 8, children are given English and Mathematics tests to help identify those with difficulties. Pupils who receive special help are not set apart from the mainstream of everyday school life. In English and Mathematics an additional teacher is allocated to the group thus facilitating individual tuition.

While working within the guidelines set down by the Northern Ireland Curriculum, pupils follow the Programmes of Study in both English and Mathematics. Each pupil begins work within the level suited to his/her ability. Each pupil’s work is continually assessed and progress monitored. Further standardised testing is carried out periodically and results recorded.

In Years 8, 9 and 10 it is hoped that with the quality of teaching, encouragement and individual attention, pupils will make satisfactory progress and achieve a level of competence which will enable them to reach their potential by the end of Key Stage 3.

In Years 11 and 12 Key Stage 4 pupils continue to work on the Programmes of Study. They study for the examinations in both English and Mathematics which are best suited to their ability. At present, pupils are taking the WJEC Communication Skills in English and CCEA ‘Living Mathematics’.

The ‘Code of Practice’ issued by the Department of Education came into effect in September ’98. The ‘Code of Practice’ recommends a five stage approach designed to ensure the identification of pupils with special educational needs and the monitoring and regular reviewing of the provision set in place for them. The first three stages are school based, with support from external specialists when necessary. At Stages 4 and 5 the Education & Library Board shares responsibility with the school.

Within each stage of the ‘Code of Practice’, communication with and involvement of parents and pupils are most important factors in working for successful outcomes.

ASSESSMENT/REPORTS

The school’s assessment/reporting policy in Year 8 is designed to promote confidence in pupils while challenging them to realise their full potential. This policy is built on in Year 9 and in subsequent years.

On two occasions in each of the first four years, formal assessment (this includes coursework, homework and tests) is carried out and reports are sent out to parents. In Year 12 a formal assessment and report is made at the end of the first term.

RECORDS OF ACHIEVEMENT

All pupils leave school with a National Record of Achievement. Each year pupils are asked to build up a portfolio, which provides a profile of themselves and their achievements. In Year 12 these achievements and experiences are summarised and presented in the National Record of Achievement Folder.

Each pupil’s Personal Folder contains the following records:

ATTENDANCE CERTIFICATES

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS

INVOLVEMENT IN SCHOOL LIFE

INVOLVEMENT IN COMMUNITY

PERSONAL STATEMENT

EMPLOYMENT HISTORY

QUALIFICATIONS AND CREDITS

PERSONAL CAREER PLAN

The aims of these records are:

i. to encourage each pupil to take an active part in his/her own learning and development;

ii. to give prospective employers and those in further education a fuller picture of the pupil’s achievements, activities and interests.

INSPECTION AND OBTAINMENT OF DOCUMENTS

Copies of documents, including Curriculum documents, are available for inspection at the Principal’s Office, on written request, to any parent who has a child enrolled in the school or is intending to enrol a child. A parent may obtain a copy of a relevant document on written request, giving one week’s notice, and on payment of the cost of providing such a copy.

COMPLAINTS

If a parent has a complaint about the Curriculum, he/she should first discuss such a complaint with the Principal. If the matter is not resolved, the parent may raise it with a School Governor who, if necessary, will bring the matter to the attention of the Board of Governors. Should the matter remain unresolved, the parent may take the complaint to an Independent Tribunal.

10 EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Many pupils participate in a wide range of activities and clubs outside school hours.

These include:

CLM

PUBLIC SPEAKING

QUIZZES

THE CONSERVATION GROUP

THE TRADITIONAL MUSIC GROUP

THE CHOIR

THE SKI CLUB

STAGE PRODUCTIONS

EUROPEAN STUDIES

THE MENTOR PROGRAMME

10.2 SPORTING FACILITIES AVAILABLE TO PUPILS

Sporting facilities at the school include one gymnasium, two small pitches, tennis-courts and a cross-country course.

Local council facilities - sports hall, swimming pool, athletics track and pitches are rented.

Local Gaelic clubs also are very supportive by permitting us the use of their facilities and pitches.

The recent commencement of the building programme means that these will be supplemented by an additional full size Gaelic pitch, the provision of an all-weather facility and the erection of a Sports hall housing a minor hall and full size gymnasium.

OUR SPORTING TRADITION

It is the aim of the school to provide a variety of sporting activities for boys and girls throughout the school year, including Athletics, Badminton, Basketball, Camogie, Cross-Country, Dance, Aerobics, Fishing, Gaelic Football, Gymnastics, Netball, Rugby, Soccer, Swimming and Yoga. Over the years we have earned an outstanding reputation for sports achievements.

Sporting activities are provided through the PE Programme and after school activities. Three formal PE classes per week are provided for each teaching group. For those pupils who wish to participate in further sporting activities, one and a half hours, four evenings per week, are provided after school to coach sport and prepare teams for inter-school competitions in Gaelic Football, Basketball, Soccer, Rugby, Netball, Camogie, Cross-Country and Athletics. The competitions are detailed in the paragraphs which follow.

ATHLETICS Boys and girls - four age groups involved in Ulster Schools Championships.

NEELB Championships.

Co Derry Championships.

Sports Hall Athletics Competition.

CROSS-COUNTRY Boys and girls teams take part in Ulster Schools Championships and in the NEELB Competition.

BASKETBALL Year 9 and year 11 - South Derry League.

Years 8 - 12 - NEBSSA Leagues.

RUGBY Year 11 and Year 12 - Todd Cup.

SOCCER Year 11 and Year 12 - Coleraine & District Schools Leagues.

CAMOGIE

Camogie is one of our main team games for girls. All girls have the opportunity to take part in internal tournaments. There is a school tournament for each year group in June. Three age groups compete in the Co Derry Schools Competition and in the Ulster Colleges Championship.

Year 8 ) Intra school competitions

Under 14 ) Blitz Tournament and Co Derry Schools

) Competition.

Under 16 - Ulster Championship and Co Derry Schools

Competition.

GAELIC FOOTBALL

Year 8 - Blitz Tournament

Year 9 - Dalton Cup and Nannery Cup

Year 10 - Corn Na nOg

Year 11 - Brock Cup

Year 12 - Rannafast Cup

There are two school competitions - The Ryan McFall Cup in Year 8 and The Bosco O’Neill Cup in Year 11.

NETBALL

Intra school competitions

Under 13 NEELB Competitions

Under 14 NEELB Competitions

Under 16 NEELB Competitions

ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES include a Residential Outdoor Educational Visit to Bushmills for Year 11 pupils and a cross-community ramble for girls and boys in Year 11.

11 CHARGES AND REMISSIONS POLICY

POLICY SUMMARY

In accordance with articles 127 - 138 ERO (NI) 1989, the Board of Governors has established a Charges and Remission Policy applicable, from 1^st April 1992, to Optional Extras and Board and Lodging on residential trips provided by the school.

All educational activities, which must be provided by law, or which take place wholly or more than 50% during school time are free. Outside of these circumstances, charges will be made for any additional or optional activities.

A charge will be made for board and lodging when pupils are on residential trips. In some circumstances this charge will be remitted to parents who are in receipt of Income Benefits.

Charges will be made for ingredients and materials needed for courses in practical subjects, provided by the school, where parents state that they wish to receive the finished product. Parents may also be requested to provide the materials or the ingredients for certain projects, when they wish to receive the finished product.

A copy of the full text of the School’s Charges and Remissions Policy is available to parents, from the School, on request.

VOLUNTARY SUBSCRIPTIONS

SCHOOL FUND

Down through the years the vast majority of parents have been very generous with voluntary subscriptions to the School Fund, which covers ongoing miscellaneous expenses eg: minibus costs, parents’ nights, open evenings, hire of pitches, additional items of equipment etc. For the school year 2000/2001 a contribution of at least £10.00 per pupil will be requested.

FIELDWORK - VISITS - SCHOOL RETREATS -

DRAMA PRODUCTIONS.

Pupils have opportunities to participate in many out of school experiences. It has been established practice that parents make voluntary contributions towards the cost of some of these events. Parents will be informed of the total cost of an event or outing when appropriate and a sum to be contributed voluntarily in respect of each pupil will be suggested.

12 HOMEWORK AND HOMESTUDY POLICY

It is essential that pupils devote a reasonable period of time to study and homework each evening, including weekends. The co-operation of parents is necessary to ensure that this is done and, where possible, that suitable facilities are available at home. As a general rule, YEAR 8 AND YEAR 9 pupils should spend one and a half hours, YEAR 10 two hours and YEARS 11 and 12 up to three hours each evening on homework, study, coursework and revision. At the beginning of the school year, each pupil is given a HOMEWORK DIARY. Pupils are required to record each day’s homework in the diary. Parents are requested to examine the diary frequently, and are encouraged to write in the diary any comments which will be of benefit to the teacher(s) and pupil. All pupils must do the homework given by each teacher and present the completed work on time.

13 PASTORAL/DISCIPLINE POLICY

Our Approach to Discipline may be summed up in two quotations:

To discipline a child means - teach him/her how to live with others - it does not mean breaking his/her spirit.

(STORR 1973)

The only form of discipline which is lasting, effective and creative is that which stems from within the person.

(BROOKS 1973)

13.2 The Policy commits us to the promotion and attainment of high standards of pupil welfare and discipline. This, we believe, is best achieved in a caring, tolerant and supportive environment, to which teachers, pupils and parents must contribute. We place a strong emphasis on knowing and understanding pupils in order to develop personal attitudes, values and relationships, thereby preparing them for the future.

Partnership and regular communication between parents and teachers is essential. Parents are informed and must become aware of the structures and programmes in place for the care and development of pupils, and of the standards of pupil behaviour required.

We believe that when pupils are achieving success, disciplinary issues are of a minor nature and we provide a wide range of opportunities for achievement. It is important that success is recognised, celebrated and rewarded. This we do in a variety of ways including recording reward points for high standards on each pupil’s personal conduct card. An accumulation of reward points reaching set targets ensures further recognition and reward.

Sanctions are sometimes necessary to focus pupils on acceptable standards of behaviour. Parental support is a crucial element if sanctions are to be effective and when necessary parents are informed about breaches of discipline and asked for their co-operation in correcting unacceptable behaviour.

School Rules are written in detail to provide clear guidelines on behaviour, for the benefit of all pupils. A copy of the Rules is given to each pupil at the beginning of the school year and the purpose, meaning and expectations are explained on a regular basis to all pupils. In addition there will be specific classroom rules. An Information Booklet sent to all parents during the summer holidays includes full details of school procedures.

13.4 A copy of the Discipline/Pastoral Care Policy is available on request.

14 SCHOOL RULES ON DRESS AND STYLE

Pupils should take a pride in their appearance.

SCHOOL UNIFORM is compulsory for all pupils and must be worn at all times, including to and from school. The essential and compulsory items of uniform are as follows:

BOYS

School Blazer

School Shirt (Blue)

School Tie

School Pullover

Dark Grey Trousers

Black Shoes

Please note -

i. Jeans are not acceptable.

ii. Boots are not acceptable.

iii. Trainers are not acceptable.

GIRLS

School Blazer

School Blouse (Cream)

School Tie

School Pullover

School Skirt - Please note: The skirt must not be altered so

Black Shoes that it becomes too tight or too short. Skirts

Black Tights must be kept knee length - this is important for

(in winter) all girls.

* Please note - only official school garments for boys and girls

are acceptable.

HAIR STYLES - Pupils should have their hair cut in a neat, tidy style. Extravagant hair colouring or other styles are unacceptable.

WEARING OF JEWELLERY - Girls - The wearing of jewellery by girls, while not forbidden, should be kept to the very minimum. Girls should not wear a number of rings as this can be a hindrance to work in many classes. Girls should not wear more than one set of small ear studs or small earrings.

Boys - Boys will NOT be permitted to wear ear studs/rings. It is therefore advised that boys should not have ears pierced.

MAKE-UP - Pupils are forbidden to wear make-up.

SHOES - All pupils must wear flat soles shoes which will not mark floors. Shoes with nailed soles are forbidden. BLACK SHOES ONLY are acceptable and should be kept clean and polished.

(Please Note: BOOTS ARE NOT ALLOWED).

15 ACCEPTABLE USE OF THE INTERNET IN SCHOOLS

A policy on the use of The Internet in school has been submitted to and ratified by the Governing Body of the School. In this regard a statement of advice to parents appears under Point 15.2 (below).

POLICY SUMMARY

The Internet is an electronic information highway, a global network, which connects millions of individual computers world wide. The Internet is now available to pupils and teachers in St Pius X High School. We are pleased to bring this access to all pupils as we believe the Internet offers vast, diverse and unique resources to both pupils and teachers. Our aim in providing this service is to promote educational excellence by facilitating resource sharing, innovation and communication. However, because the Internet is composed from a vast array of sources it includes information which may be inaccurate, abusive, profane, sexually orientated, racist or illegal. The Internet Acceptable Use Policy in St Pius X High School is in place to encourage good behaviour on the school network and to ensure that both parents and users are informed and agree to uphold the terms and conditions outlined in the Policy.

ADVICE FOR PARENTS ON THEIR CHILDRENS USE OF THE INTERNET

Users of the Internet within St Pius X High School must adhere to strict guidelines. These guidelines are provided so that you, the parents, are aware of the responsibilities you are about to acquire. In general, this requires efficient, ethical and legal use of the Internet resources by your child. The use of the school’s Internet account is a privilege not a right. The Internet must be used for educational and research purposes only, consistent with the educational aims of the school. Internet access can only be offered to a pupil if the parent or guardian has read and signed The Internet Acceptable Use Policy.

Teaching staff will do their best to monitor materials accessed by pupils. The Internet Service Provider (ISP) used by the school attempts to filter as much of the materials deemed offensive, pornographic or otherwise unacceptable.

16 REVIEW AND AMENDMENTS

The information in this Prospectus is published subject to review and amendment, as and when necessary. Any changes in respect of any matter mentioned in the above paragraphs and known before the end of June 2000 will be published in the 2000 booklet ‘Information Booklet for Parents’, which as mentioned in Paragraph 13.3 above, is sent to all parents during the summer holidays. Any changes thereafter will be conveyed to parents by leaflets sent home with pupils.

17 SCHOOL PERFORMANCE - 1998/99

17.1 PUPILS IN YEAR 12

Number of Pupils Year 12

173

Number with Statements

17.2 ENTRIES FOR GCSE EXAMINATIONS

Number of Subjects

% Entered for 5 or more Subjects

% Entered for

1 - 4 Subjects

89%

11%

17.3 RESULTS OF EXAMINATIONS TAKEN BY YEAR 12

(1) GCSE EXAMINATIONS - 1998

GRADES A - C GRADES A - G

% Achieving 5+ at A*-C	% Achieving 1 - 4 A*-C		% Achieving 5- at A*-G	% Achieving 1 - 4 at A*-G	% Achieving no grades A*-G incl. those not entered.
47.4%	34%		89%	11%	0%

(2) OTHER EXAMINATIONS 1998

% ENTERED	% ACHIEVING
42%	42%

Awarding Body and Subject

No. Entered

Results

WJEC

English

11 Distinctions

6 Merits

WJEC

History

2 Distinctions

6 Merits

5 Passes

WJEC

Living Maths

15 Gold

1 Silver

2 Bronze

RSA

Integrated Business

Technology

RSA

Text Processing

Stage II

15 Distinctions

WJEC

Graphical & Material Studies

1 Distinction

5 Merits

7 Passes

SEG

Geography Basic Skills

2 Merits

6 Passes

17.4 LEAVERS AND DESTINATIONS

Total Leavers - 172

Transferred to:

Another School	F.E. Colleges	Jobskills	Employment	Other
43	63	53	10	3

17.5 ATTENDANCE RATE 1997/98

Total No of Possible Attendance Sessions

Total No of Sessions

Attended

Attendance

319,730

300.693

94.05%

TOTAL NO OF PUPILS WITH FULL ATTENDANCE = 49

17.6 ADMISSIONS & ENROLMENT - SEPTEMBER 1998

TOTAL ENROLMENT - 852

Number of Applications	Number of Admissions
202	175

% Grade Analysis by Subject 1999 GCSE EXAMINATIONS

SUBJECT	% A*	% A	% B	% C	% D	% E	% F	% G	% U	Total Ent.
Art	7	32.6	37.2	11.6	4.7	2.3	2.3			43
Business Studies			15.1	30.2	28.3	9.4	11.3		5.7	53
Computer Studies
Technology		2.2	28.3	28.3	32.6	6.5			2.2	46
Double Award Science		5.5	26	63	5.5					146
English	0.6	3.8	10.8	38.2	29.3	9.6	5.1	1.9	0.6	157
English Literature		100								1
French		13.5	15.4	26.9	34.6	5.8	1.9	1.9		52
Geography	1	3.8	22.1	35.6	22.1	8.7	1.9	2.9	1	104
Child Development		10	46.7	30	10			3.3		30
Home Economics		2.1	17	29.8	21.3	19.1	4.3		6.4	47
History	2.3	7	27.9	25.6	14	7	11.6	2.3	2.3	43
Irish		14.3	12.9	22.9	20	12.9	10	4.3	2.9	70
Mathematics			9	32.7	16	21.2	9.6	3.8	7.7	156
Music				66.7			16.7	16.7		6
Religious Education	0.8	3.8	8.3	22.6	18	18	14.3	7.5	6.8	133
Single Award Science				44	33	13	3	3	2	100
Technical Drawing
Keyboarding		20	20	20	20	15		5		20
PSE Module						50	16.7	33.3		10

For Further Information

Please Contact the

Principal

at: 01648 - 32186 (2 Lines)

Fax: 01648 - 32573

E-Mail:

E-Mail: office@stpiusx.magherafelt.ni.sch.uk