Download the School Handbook - Newbattle Community High School

Place NameXAg HometownPace Time278 Renk, Alyssa F21 Liverpool NY 08:51 54:59.48279 Darcangelo, Dillon M15 Baldwinsville NY 08:52 55:02.38280 O'Brien, Danielle F33 Syracuse NY 08:55 55:24.19281 Thompson, Kristina F42 Bradford NH 08:56 55:25.68282 Glavin, Kathleen F29 Liverpool NY 08:56 55:26.56283 Ariola, Monica F48 mexico NY 08:56 55:28.51284 Solomon, Tim M39 Baldwinsville NY 08:56 55:29.29285 Robinson, Carol F55 Syracuse NY 08:57 55:31.67286 Sorbello, Christina F41 Syracuse NY 08:58 55:39.61287 Palmer, Jessica F31 syracuse NY 08:58 55:40.76288 Lyons, Leonard M53 Nedrow NY 08:58 55:42.37289 Lewis, Dawn F39 Liverpool NY 08:59 55:47.77290 Bollinger, Amy F40 Baldwinsville NY 09:00 55:52.23291 Bollinger, Scott M41 Baldwinsville NY 09:00 55:53.11292 Jacob Varghese, Anuroop M24 minoa NY 09:00 55:54.84293 Grannell, Rachael F21 Liverpool NY 09:00 55:55.51294 Murphy, Patrick M35 DeWitt NY 09:01 56:02.19295 Russell, Clay M33 Phoenix NY 09:02 56:03.06296 Stanton, Timothy M32 Liverpool NY 09:02 56:03.87297 Kates, Hilary F24 fort meyers NY 09:02 56:04.70298 Lipiska, Jenna F27 weedsport NY 09:02 56:05.16299 Spreter, William M64 Baldwinsville NY 09:02 56:05.86300 Kamide, Virgina F18 Baldwinsville NY 09:03 56:09.54301 Defio, Karen F40 Baldwinsville NY 09:03 56:10.05302 Dow, David M32 syracuse NY 09:03 56:10.87303 Tausend, Richard M52 cato NY 09:04 56:17.80304 Brookins, Claire F39 Baldwinsville NY 09:04 56:20.70305 Niemczynowski, Agata F43 clay NY 09:05 56:23.09306 Nichols, Cristen F46 Solvay NY 09:06 56:32.32307 Masucci, Samatha F24 liverpool NY 09:06 56:33.41308 Hewitt, Elizabeth F28 Pasadena MD 09:07 56:36.11309 Foster, Chris M36 Baldwinsville NY 09:07 56:37.57310 Desrosiers, Scott M33 Clay NY 09:08 56:41.08311 Leone, Dawn F42 Mexico NY 09:08 56:42.01312 Borczuk, Monica F38 Liverpool NY 09:08 56:44.86313 Mirabito, David M62 Fulton NY 09:09 56:47.43314 Mihalek, Henry M63 Fulton NY 09:09 56:48.72315 Grannell, Cindy F45 Liverpool NY 09:09 56:49.84316 Farone, Patricia F45 n. syracuse NY 09:10 56:53.68317 Wyskida, Kristen F37 Baldwinsville NY 09:10 56:54.956/10/2013 11:59:42 PM AuyerTiming.comThis report was produced using RaceTrak software (www.RaceTrakOnline.com)Page 8 of 13

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014Section B – Communications and StaffHow you can contact the schoolWe firmly believe that the achievement of success depends upon the close partnership between home andschool. We encourage parents and carers to work closely with the school and an essential part of this iseffective communication between home and school. This page explains how you can get in touch with usand the next page explains how we will keep in touch with you.Our contact detailsYou can contact the school by: Sending a note into school with yourchild, or leaving a note in your child’splanner and asking your child to show itto their homeroom teacher. Post: address mail to us at:64 Easthouses Road, Dalkeith, EH22 4EW Telephone: (0131) 663 4191 Fax: (0131) 654 2611 Email: newbattle_hs@midlothian.gov.ukWho to contactFor enquiries relating to your child, youshould contact the school office using thecontact details above and ask for yourchild’s Guidance teacher. A list ofGuidance teachers is given on page 15.For general enquiries, you should contactthe school office using the contactdetails above. Our skilled administrationteam will either answer your querythemselves or will forward your query tothe most appropriate member of staff.To contact the Parent Council, you should contact the Chair, June Robertson. She can becontacted through the school office using the details above.A full list of all staff is given on page 11. Throughout this handbook, if you would like more information ona particular topic, we have indicated the most appropriate member of staff to ask for. Look out for theparagraphs with blue background, such as this one:For suggestions about the contents of this handbook, contactMr D Watkins, Webmaster (D.Watkins@mgfl.net)If you are concerned about any aspect of our work, then please contact the Head Teacher in the firstinstance. Full details of the council’s complaints procedure are given in the Midlothian Council Complaintsprocedure in the appendices on page 44.7

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014How does the school contact you?If you have a child enrolled at Newbattle Community High School, we will contact you by:Post: we will send important confidential information out by post, such as your child’s annual reportand letters relating to your individual child – for instance alerting you of any issues relating tohomework or behaviour. It is crucial that you ensure we have your most recent postal address. Wewill also send you our school newsletter Newbattle News, which is published twice a year (beforeChristmas and just after Easter).Telephone: we would use telephone to contact you in an emergency situation (such as if your childwas taken ill at school). For that reason, it is crucial that you ensure we have your most recent homeand mobile telephone numbers.If you are not sure whether we have your correct address or telephone number,contact the school office on (0131) 663 4191 to request an update form.Text message: We subscribe to a system called Truancy Call, which will alert you if your child doesnot turn up to school, and if we havenot already had an explanatory noteor phone call from you. Website: our school websitewww.newbattle.org.uk contains alarge selection of information and isregularly updated.Email: we have a parents’ email listwhich sends out a daily summary ofall the most important messages fromthe school. Parents can join this listby filling out a simple easy online formon our website.Social Networking: if you usesocial networking sites, you can ‘Like’ our Facebook page (www.facebook.com/newbattlehigh) orfollow us on Twitter (@newbattlehigh) to get all of our most recent updates sent directly to you.For more information or to make suggestions about the school website, email list, or social networking,contact Mr D Watkins, Webmaster at D.Watkins@mgfl.netPupil post: non-confidential information (e.g. notification of dress down days, leaflets of summerholiday activities) will be handed out in homeroom and sent home with each student.Parents’ Evenings: parents’ consultation evenings are held for each year group at least once per year.The dates are published in advance on our website. For more details, see page 35.School Events: throughout the year we hold a number of events aimed at ensuring parents and carersare kept informed and involved in their child’s education, such as our Parent Power Plus sessions (seepage 20).Planners: each student will be given a planner into which they should be recording all the homeworkthey are set. By checking this planner on a weekly basis, you can be up to date with their homework.8

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014The Community We ServeNewbattle Community High School is a non-denominational secondary school that meets the learningneeds of pupils from ages 11 to 18. It was opened in 1969 and currently serves the communities ofMayfield, Easthouses, Newtongrange, Gorebridge, North Middleton, Temple and the surrounding areas.The diagram below shows the school and its six associated Primary Schools:Newbattle Community High SchoolMayfield andEasthousesGorebridgeNewtongrangeMiddleton,TempleLawfieldPrimarySchoolMayfieldPrimarySchoolGorebridgePrimarySchoolStobhillPrimarySchoolNewtongrangePrimary SchoolMoorfootPrimary SchoolCommunity EventsNewbattle Community High School works with a numberof organisations within the community, and welcomescommunity members who would like to forge new schoolcommunitylinks.We are the base for the Newbattle Community SportsHub which is made up of local clubs and organisations thatco-operate and support each other, with the aim toincrease the number of opportunities for people of all agesto participate in sport. Our Centre for Sport andLeisure is available for bookings at evenings andweekends.Every year, the school produces a float for both theMayfield and Easthouses and Newtongrange Gala DaysWe produce a float for the annual Mayfield andEasthouses Gala Day and the Newtongrange GalaDay every June; and we have also supported theGorebridge Gala Day. We produce and hold events towhich the wider community are invited, including concerts,musicals, dance and fashion shows and the 1000×1000exhibition.We are proud of our extremely strong workingrelationships with community organisations such as theYouth 2000 Project (Y2K), McSence, the Midlothian YoungPeople's Advice Service (MYPAS), the GorebridgeDevelopment Trust, the Mayfield and Easthouses A highlight of the school calendar is the annual S6 promDevelopment Trust, the Go Project and our Police YouthCommunity Officer. We also have an international link with Khanya Lesedi School in South Africa.For further information about the school’s activities in the community contactMr C B Taylor, Head Teacher (C.Taylor@mgfl.net)9

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014Senior ManagementThe Senior Management Team consists of the Head Teacher and the three Depute Head Teachers.Mr Colin B Taylor, Head TeacherMr Taylor is responsible for all matters concerning the management,organisation and administration of the schoolEmail: C.Taylor@mgfl.netMiss Sarah WozniakActing Depute Head TeacherMr Trevor LeachDepute Head TeacherMr Jim FairDepute Head TeacherHead of Moorfoot HousePupil Support andGuidance Co-ordinatorSupport for LearningDiscipline for Learningand Values for LifeVocational and EnterpriseeducationHead of Pentland HousePromotion of highquality Learning andTeachingS1-S3 broad generaleducationStaff developmentPrimary-secondaryliaisonHead of LammermuirHouseSQA and internal examsand assessmentsS4-S6 curriculum andprefect systemAttainment/AchievementICTHealth and SafetyEmail: S.Wozniak@mgfl.netEmail: T.Leach@mgfl.netEmail: J.Fair@mgfl.net10

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014Full Staff ListSee previous page for details of the Senior Management TeamKeyPT(C) = Principal Teacher (Curriculum)PT = Principal TeacherDHT = Depute Head Teacher* = part timeARTS & TECHNOLOGIESMr R Thomson, CDT , PT(C)Mr D Bayne, CDTMiss C Blair, CDTMr D Turkington, CDT, PT (Guidance)Mrs J Watson*, CDTMr R Watt, CDTMrs M Grieve, Art and DesignMrs H Heneghan, Art and DesignMrs M Philpot*, Art and DesignMiss A Reynolds, Art and DesignBUSINESS, IT ANDVOCATIONALMrs J Knox, Business, PT(C)Miss A Hyland, BusinessDr A Jefferies*, ComputingMiss K Wyse, BusinessENGLISHMrs J Kernaghan*, PTMr C Greig, PTMiss G CarruthersMr J Fair, DHTMiss L McKenzieMiss C MillerMr C Mitchell, PT (Whole School)Mr L Porteous, PT (Guidance)Miss S Wozniak, DHTHEALTH AND WELLBEINGMr R Foley, PE, PT(C)Mr R Allardice, PEMr D Anderson, PEMiss W Craig, PE, PT (Guidance)Mrs S Fegen, PEMiss N Kelly, PEMiss L Middlehurst, PEMr A Wilson, PEMrs F Bain, HEMrs C Gracie, HE, PT (Guidance)Miss L Todd, HEMrs D Sives*, HE, AuxiliaryMATHEMATICSMr M Davidson, PT(C)Miss R ForbesMr J Glen, PT (Guidance)Mrs A Hall*Mr T Leach, DHTMiss C LeightonMrs A MillerMr R NapierMr D WatkinsMODERN LANGUAGESMadame M Leslie, PTMiss K BairdMrs S Sghaier*Mrs H Syme*MUSIC & DRAMAMiss N Maynes, Music, PT(C)Mrs S Birrell, MusicMiss R Curry , MusicMiss A Pattison, MusicMs C Stoney*, DramaMusic InstructorsMrs A Dougan, PianoMr A Knox, BrassMr D Knox, WoodwindMiss M Lloyd, StringsMr A Pilcher, GuitarMiss B J Waddell, PercussionRELIGIOUS & MORALEDUCATIONMr J Mutch, PTMr D McMillanMrs H Phillips, PT (Guidance)Ms A TerrisSCIENCESMiss C Philp, Chemistry, PT(C)Miss J Cunningham, BiologyMiss S Hashemian, PhysicsMrs C McKimmie, ChemistryMiss H Mecit, PhysicsMrs L Montgomery, BiologyMr L O’Thy, ChemistryMiss A Wynne, BiologySOCIAL STUDIESMrs J Bakke, History, PT(C)Mr J Frame, HistoryMr J Glen, HistoryMiss C MacDonald, GeographyMr J Moore, GeographySUPPORT FOR LEARNINGMrs E Hogg, PTMrs E Beveridge*, PT (Guidance)Miss L McMillanMrs T Watson*Miss L Morrison*Learning AssistantsMs L BeveridgeMrs C Galloway*Mrs G Jackson*Mrs L LambMiss N Lawson*Miss K O’HaraMrs M Pryde*Mr M Newcombe*Mrs D Swanston*ADMINISTRATIONMrs C Burt, Administration ManagerMrs M MacInnes, Senior Support AssistantMrs M Smith, Support AssistantMrs L Grieve*, Support AssistantMrs K Peacock*, Support AssistantMrs G Jackson*, Support AssistantMr R Martin*, Class Cover Co-ordinatorMrs A Camilleri* , ReprographicsMrs C Galloway* , ReprographicsMiss K O’Hara, ReprographicsMrs E Bachman*, ReprographicsGUIDANCE SUPPORT STAFFMiss L Nimmo, Positive Behaviour OfficerMrs S Ramsay*, Support AssistantLIBRARYMr J McRobbie, LibrarianTECHNICIAN STAFFMr D Baur, CDTMrs S McGachie, SciencesMrs E Gray*, SciencesFACILITIES STAFFMr K Morrison, Duty Co-ordinatorMr R Cunningham, Site SupervisorMr T Drysdale, Site SupervisorMr J Martin, Site SupervisorMr A Taylor, Site SupervisorMrs D Gallagher*, RangerMrs Y Hunter*, RangerMr D Stewardson*, RangerMr B McCormack*, RangerSCHOOL MEALS SERVICEMrs L McVean, Cook SupervisorMiss D Robertson, Cook 3Note: This information is accurate at the time of publication (October 2013) but is subject to change.11

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014Attendance and PunctualityRegular attendance is one of the key contributors to success at school:Pupils with a high absence rate (over 10%) lose confidence in themselves and their abilityFor S3 or S4 pupils, a 10% absence rate can affect National Qualification results by a gradePatchy attendance i.e. one day per week can be more disruptive than a block absenceProspective employers and colleges ask, as a matter of priority, for figures on punctuality andattendanceThe support and co-operation of parents in ensuringregular attendance is of crucial importance in every child’seducation. The school also insists upon punctuality andgood time keeping by all pupils. This is because goodattendance and timekeeping: reflect a positive attitude to learning andattainment reflect good self-discipline shows courtesy towards the other members of theschool community are essential requirements in life beyond schoolHowever on occasions absence is unavoidable, and it isessential that we are promptly notified of this.The school records pupils’ attendance electronically on aperiod by period basis. This allows us to keep parentsinformed if their child is not in school.Absence due to illness or exceptional domesticcircumstancesWhere a pupil is absent due to illness or exceptional domestic circumstances parents are asked to contactthe school by telephoning (0131) 663 4191 on the first day of any absence. When the pupil returns toschool parents should supply a note to the pupil to be handed in to his/her Homeroom Teacher.Medical appointmentsIf a pupil has a medical appointment (e.g. doctor, dentist, orthodontist, physiotherapist), parents should: either supply a note to be handed to the homeroom teacher or telephone the office in advance to advise the time of the appointment.Without a note or phone call in advance, your son or daughter will not be allowed to leave school.It would normally be expected that pupils would remain in school until shortly before the appointment, andwould return to school after the appointment was over.Holidays during term timeFamily holidays during term time should be avoided if at all possible.Where this is unavoidable, parents should follow the procedure detailed below. Permission for leave of absence of up to two weeks duration should be sought, as far in advance aspossible, by writing to the Head Teacher. Where a longer period of leave is sought, a written application must be made well in advance to theEducation & Communities Division, Midlothian Council (see contact details on page 45).12

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014Section C – How We Support Our PupilsTransition from Primary to SecondaryWe have a programme of events and visits for pupilstransferring from our associated (and other) Primaryschools to Newbattle.Every November we hold a parents’ information evening atwhich parents can get to know the Head Teacher and staff,and can also see the school's facilities.There are two half day hands-on workshops inNovember and March, where pupils come to the HighSchool for half a day and sample a selection of workshops.In May, all pupils from our six associated Primary schoolshave the opportunity to attend the cluster camp atDounans Outdoor Education Centre in Aberfoyle.In June, all pupils will visit the High School for two schooldays, where they will follow a timetable and sample a rangeof subject classes, as well as providing an introduction to theschool.Start of Primary 7Transition process beginsParents' Open EveningNovemberHands‐on workshops for PupilsNovember MarchCluster Campone week in MayTwo‐day visit for PupilsJunePupils join Newbattle in AugustFor further information, contact Mr T Leach, Depute Head Teacher (T.Leach@mgfl.net)Primary 7 Fast Track to SuccessNewbattle runs a 'Fast Track to Success' programmefor the most academically able Primary 7 pupils inour associated primary schools. The programme oflearning and teaching starts in October and lastseighteen weeks, during which these pupils attendclasses at Newbattle for one hour a week afterschool on Wednesdays. They follow a speciallydesigned course in Maths, English and Science;which covers work which they build upon when theycome to the High School in S1. The successfulcompletion of the programme is celebrated with agraduation ceremony in March, where it is alwayspleasing to see pupils supported by their familymembers and teachers.Every year the lessons are completed with pace and rigour, and pupils say they find them fun and exciting.The pupils have the opportunity to build on these successes in the years to come at secondary school.For further information, contact Mrs C Gracie, Principal Teacher of Guidance13

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014PathfindersSome pupils find the transition from PrimarySchool to Secondary School more challengingthan others. A special programme of eventscalled the Pathfinders Programme is organisedfor these pupils to help them settle into life inHigh School.Pupils who may benefit from this programmeare identified at a P7 Transition Concernsmeeting in January. Three sessions are thenarranged in the Summer term, where the pupilsvisit the High School and engage in a variety ofactivities provided by the school and external partners such as our Youth Community Officer. Theseactivities help the pupils to become accustomed to the High School setting and the adults that they willmeet in June.Pupils joining after the start of S1Parents seeking to enrol pupils at any other time, or seeking more information prior to making a decisionon their choice of schools should contact the School Office. We can arrange a tour of the school or aninformal discussion to help you make a final decision. Once you have decided you would like to enrol,contact the School Office for an enrolment pack. Once this is completed and returned to the school, MissWozniak (Depute Head Teacher) will invite you into school for an enrolment meeting.For further information on enrolment, contactMiss S Wozniak, Depute Head Teacher (S.Wozniak@mgfl.net)Guidance and Pastoral SupportOnce your child joins Newbattle, they areassigned a homeroom (or registration)group in one of our three houses:Lammermuir, Moorfoot andPentland. Each homeroom usually staystogether from S1 to S4. Each homeroomhas three layers of pastoral support:1. On a daily basis, the pupils meet theirHomeroom Teacher who isresponsible for registering the pupilseach morning, dealing with notes andannouncements, ensuring the pupilshave the correct school dress and equipment and encouraging progress in learning.2. Every homeroom has an associated Principal Teacher of Guidance, who will be the main point ofcontact between parents, pupils and the school throughout a pupil’s school career. Guidance Teachersare responsible for teaching the Social Education (SE) programmes to their homerooms and for givingpersonal, curricular and careers advice to pupils in their charge.3. In overall charge of each house is the Head of House, who is a Depute Head Teacher. Wherepossible, the same Homeroom Teacher, Guidance Teacher and Head of House will be responsible for ahomeroom class from year to year.14

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014Who is my child’s Guidance Teacher?Our House structure is organised as follows:Lammermuir Moorfoot PentlandHouse Head: Mr J Fair,Depute Head TeacherHouse Head: Miss S Wozniak,Depute Head TeacherHouse Head: Mr T Leach,Depute Head TeacherMr J GlenPT GuidanceEmail:J.Glen2@mgfl.netMrs C GraciePT GuidanceEmail:C.Gracie@mgfl.netMr LPorteousPT GuidanceEmail:L.Porteous@mgfl.netMr DTurkingtonPT GuidanceEmail:D.Turkington@mgfl.netMrs H PhillipsPT GuidanceMiss W CraigPT GuidanceW.Craig@mgfl.netMrs EBeveridgeE.Beveridge@mgfl.netPT Guidance(job share)Principal Teachers of Guidance are responsible for homerooms as follows:Guidance teacher S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6Mr Turkington 1AM 2AM, 2BM 3AM 4AM, 4BM 5CMMr Porteous 1CM, 1DM 2CM, 2DM 3CM, 3DM 4DM 5DM6MMrs Phillips 1EP 2EP, 2FP 3EP 4EP, 4FP 5EPMiss Craig ** 1GP, 1HP 2GP - - 5FP6PMrs Beveridge (Mon/Fri) ** - - 3GP, 3HP 4GP 5FP -Mr Glen 1IL 2IL, 2JL 3IL, 3JL 4JL 5BLMrs Gracie 1KL, 1LL 2KL 3KL, 3LL 3KL, 3LL 5AL6L** Mrs Beveridge is part-time and works on a job share basis (currently with Miss Craig). The table indicates thehomerooms for whom each is the direct link. However, both will deal with urgent issues as and when they arise.Guidance staff are available on an appointment basis to meet parents who may wish to discuss any mattersaffecting the progress or well being of their children. Guidance staff may also ask parents to come to theschool to discuss any problems which may arise.For further information, contact your child’s Guidance teacher in the first instance15

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014Additional Support NeedsMany students no matter what their ability level,may have Additional Support Needs (ASN) atsome point during their time at school. Thisdifficulty may be either long or short-term and ourSupport for Learning (SfL) Department worksclosely with subject departments to support theneeds of individual students as appropriate.The SfL department comprises three teachers andnine Learning Assistants, and operates its ownsupport base known as the Learning Hub. Thedepartment works closely with subject teachers,Guidance staff, parents, the pupil themselves and specialists (e.g. Physiotherapy, Educational Psychology,English as a Second Language, Midlothian Support for Autistic Spectrum Disorders, Behavioural Support).The active involvement of parents together with young people and their teachers is vital when deciding onthe programme of support that will be offered to a young person. Examples of support provided by the SfLdepartment are: in-class support from Learning Assistants and Learning Support Teachers in normal timetabled classes withdrawal from some classes for individual or small group work or paired reading schemes use of The Learning Hub during lunchtime and morning interval distribution and upkeep of electronic aids and other ICT materials providing support in SQA exams (such as readers, scribes, ICT support)Midlothian Council has a policy to promote the provision forAdditional Support Needs for all children in mainstreamschools and further information is set out in ‘Education forAll: A Guide for Parents, Carers and Young People’ availablefrom Midlothian Council.The authority keeps the additional support needs of eachsuch child and young person under consideration throughthe Midlothian Assessment and Planning Staged System(MAPSS) process. The additional support needs of theseidentified children and young people are recorded onSEEMiS, the authority’s secure management of informationsystem. Pupils can be referred for support from servicesexternal to the school, including through a multi-agencyforum. Parents and children over the age of 12 are alwaysconsulted before any referral is processed.Rarely, differences may arise regarding additional supportneeds. In such cases, Midlothian Council provide a free andindependent mediation service, Common Ground (www.commongroundmediation.co.uk), to help movethings forward in a positive way.If your child has any kind of additional support need or would like to request additionalassessment for your child, contact Mrs E Hogg, Head of Support for Learning (E.Hogg@mgfl.net)Parents are also entitled to request additional assessment by making a request in writing toMidlothian Council’s Additional Support Needs Officer (asnofficer@midlothian.gov.uk),Education Division, Fairfield House, 8 Lothian Road, Dalkeith, EH22 3ZG.16

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014Organisations which provide advice, further information and support to parents of children and youngpeople with Additional Support Needs include: Enquire: the Scottish advice and information service for additional support for learning – enquire.org.uk Scottish Independent Advocacy Alliance – www.siaa.org.uk Scottish Child Law Centre: Free legal advice for and about kids – www.sclc.org.ukSupporting pupils with medical needsAt the start of a pupil's secondary school career, a letter is sent to parents requesting information on anymedical or health needs. We appreciate a prompt reply to this letter. During the pupil's time at Newbattle,parents are asked to inform the Guidance Staff if any medical or health problems develop.Where pupils are required to take medication during the school day (including Paracetamol), they shouldbe given a note outlining when and how much medication should be taken and handed to the School Office.The medication will be kept in a locked cupboard, and given under supervision to the pupil as required.Pupils who may require the use of an asthma inhaler during school hours should keep it in their bag but aspare must be left with the School Auxiliary.If your child has medical needs we may not be aware of, please contact your child’s Guidance TeacherSchool Health ServiceThroughout their time at school a team ofspecialist Health Service and Education staff willbe seeing children as part of a plannedprogramme to make sure that they benefit asmuch as possible from all that school has to offer,and to help prepare them for life after leavingschool.The School Nurse is the lead healthprofessional in mainstream schools in Midlothian.School nurses are involved with health promotionand education, prevention of ill health,immunisation, health surveillance and screening. The school nurse may be helped by a Health Assistantand have close working links with Community Paediatricians. The school nurse reviews the notes of allchildren in Primary 1 as well as those of all new entrants. A member of the school health team measurestheir growth and tests vision. The School Nurse will assess these measurements and results. In additionshe may review children who are referred either by parents, teachers or other health professionals at anystage in their school life.If you have concerns about your child’s hearing the school can refer him or her to the appropriatespecialist directly.Speech and Language Therapist - can provide assessment and, if necessary, support if you, ateacher, your GP or the school doctor feels that your child may need help with communication.Any enquiries concerning the provision of dental services should be made to the Director of theCommunity Dental Service, 16 Duncan Street, Edinburgh EH9 1SR (Telephone: 0131 667 7114).We hope that the School Health Service can, together with yourselves, contribute to your child’s overallwell-being and development. If you would like to see the School Nurse or school health team, you canarrange an appointment through Miss S Wozniak, Depute Head Teacher (S.Wozniak@mgfl.net)17

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014Moving on: Work, College, UniversityWe support pupils in the senior years to make a successful transition to the next phase of their life,whether this be to S5, S6, training, employment, Further Education or Higher Education. We are dedicatedto ensuring that all our pupils have a positive destination when they leave us.Careers advice is available to pupils throughout their time in the High School. This service is jointlyprovided by two qualified Careers Advisors and our own Guidance Staff. The school has a well-stockedCareers Library, and we have held community careers events featuring employers and representatives ofFurther and Higher education. Pupils are provided with financial advice in Social Education classes.For further information about careers guidance, contact: Mrs C Gracie, PT (Guidance)Newbattle is dedicated to supporting students who make the transition to Higher Education, and wework with students as they complete their UCAS application. We also organise visits to local UniversityOpen Days and attend the Higher Education Convention during the year.We are active members of the Lothians Equal Access Programme for Schools (LEAPS), an organisation thatworks closely with local universities to consider individual applications, and gives candidates support innegotiating entry requirements. LEAPS also prepares applicants for Higher Education through a specialsummer school for students who need that extra support in obtaining a place at university. Every studentwho applies to University is encouraged to attend this programme. Find out more at www.leapsonline.org.S2 University WeekFor further information about the university applications process contact:Mr John Glen, PT (Guidance) (J.Glen2@mgfl.net)For well over fifteen years our school has fostered strong linkswith the staff and students of the University of Edinburgh.Every year we take a group of twenty-five S2 students who areachieving at a high academic level to the University ofEdinburgh for a five day residential experience, joining with asimilar group from Beath High in Fife. Recently we haveexpanded to include day trips to other universities in the cityto allow pupils to see the variety of options available to them ifthey pursue Higher Education.The week's activities seek to motivate young people to aim fora place at university by allowing them to participate in astimulating programme that covers specially designed lecturesin a wide variety of academic subjects, as well as a range ofsocial and recreational activities.Pupils who attend the trip are invited to participate following arigorous selection process involving a review of their academicperformance and nominations from teachers. The trip isheavily subsidised by the school, although a parental contribution to the cost is required, and has a fantasticrecord in encouraging pupils to achieve their potential. The school is very proud of the impact it has had inmotivating youngsters.For further information contact Mr C Mitchell, Principal Teacher Attainment and Achievement18

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA)Education MaintenanceAllowance (EMA) is availableto pupils who will havereached their sixteenthbirthday after 1 st March andhave decided to stay on atschool from August in thenext academic session. TheEMA is a means testedweekly allowance, paidfortnightly into the student’sbank account; payment isdependent on the studentattaining 100% attendance ineach week of the paymentperiod.Application packs can be obtained from the school or from the Education and Children’s Services Division,Fairfield House, 8 Lothian Road, Dalkeith, EH22 3ZG.Revision Opportunities for PupilsAs part of our continued drive to raise attainment and to help our pupils achieve the best exam results theycan, we provide an extensive programme ofrevision opportunities. Most departmentswill offer after school study clubs to supportpupils with classwork and homework.We provide a particularly extensive revisionprogramme in the Easter holidays. Atimetable of Easter Revision classes ispublished annually. There is no cost to theseclasses and pupils are encouraged to takeadvantage of this excellent opportunity. Theclasses focus on revising work carried outthroughout the course, preparing for the upand coming exams and provide a chance toiron out any problem areas. A timetable of allrevision classes will be given to pupils beforethe Easter holiday, and they will be expectedto sign up for the classes they wish to attend.The list of times will also be published on ourwebsite .For further information about Easter revision classes, contact:Mr J Fair, Depute Head Teacher (J.Fair@mgfl.net)19

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014Section D – Parental InvolvementParents and schools separately can do a great deal to assist a child’seducational development. Together, they can achieve even more.Newbattle Community High School relies upon a strong partnership between home and school. Weencourage parents to play an active role in the life of the school and to share their opinions and views by,for instance, joining the Parent Council. As a school, we will: keep parents and carers fully informed on their child’s progress provide opportunities for parents to meet with their child’s teachers every year hold an Open Evening to support parents and pupils making choices about the next steps in theirlearning (see information on course choice for S4, S5 and S6 on page 33) consult parents and carers on school policies and value their opinions offer parents and carers opportunities to become involved in their child’s educationHomeworkHomework is an essential part of allcourses of study. We firmly believe thatdeveloping a robust study habit from S1onwards is crucial to preparing the way forachievement in later years. In S1, S2 andS3 we expect pupils to do around 240minutes of homework each week. In thesenior school, more time will need to bespent on homework to give pupils the bestpossible results in SQA examinations.In S1 and S2, we attempt to even out thehomework load by ensuring that each pupilhas about 40 minutes of homework pernight. We produce a homework timetableto show pupils which subjects they would expect to be doing each evening, and this timetable is postedhome to parents at the start of the school session. Parents can support the school by:talking with their child about the importance of homework and developing good study habits.encouraging pupils to do their best and to complete homework thoroughly and regularly.checking pupils’ planners weekly to monitor the homework that has been set (parents can sign theplanner weekly to indicate they have seen it).asking questions taken from child’s textbooks, workbooks, worksheets or the school website to helpthem revise and consolidate the work they have done in class.Parent Power PlusOur Parent Power Plus (PPP) Events are workshops for parents which aim to help parents support theirchild’s learning. We currently run PPP workshops for the parents of our S2, S4, S5 and S6 pupils. ParentPower Plus events are designed to help us work together to help our youngsters make the most of theirtime at Newbattle and leave school with the best possible set of qualifications.The S2 Parent Power Plus event provides information on our S2 Curriculum for Excellence coursesand learning activities along with information on helping with homework. It also provides anopportunity to speak with staff from all departments.20

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014The S4, S5 and S6 Parent Power Plus workshops are focused around preparation for NationalQualifications. This can be a stressful time for students and parents and these workshops provideinformation on SQA qualifications, assessments, preparing for exams, study skills, using the internetand other support materials.For further information on PPP, contact: Mr J Fair, Depute Head Teacher (J.Fair@mgfl.net)The Parent CouncilWe have an active Parent Council and a subgroup, Friends of Newbattle who organise fund-raising eventson behalf of the council and the school. The views of the parent council are influential in the decisionmakingrelated to the management of the school. In the last session, the council were actively involved inthe discussion of curriculum architecture, the new school dress code and our new school building.The objectives of the Parent Council areto: work in partnership with the school tocreate a welcoming school which isinclusive and promotes equality for all promote partnership between theschool, its pupils and all its parents develop and engage in activities whichsupport the education and welfare ofthe pupils identify and represent the views ofparents on the education provided bythe school and other matters affectingthe education and welfare of the pupilsOur Parent Council plays an importantrole within the school, by representing parent opinion, fund raising, and taking part in the appointment ofsenior staff of the school. A booklet detailing the functions, membership of and regulations governingParent Councils is available from Midlothian Council at the address shown on page 45.Dates of future meetings and minutes of past meetings of the Parent Council are available on the schoolwebsite: http://www.newbattle.org.uk/Parents/ParentsForum/index.html. The elected Parent CouncilRepresentatives for Session 2013-2014 are listed below:Chair: Mrs June Robertson Vice Chair: Mrs Kim CunninghamStaff Member: Miss S WozniakAdvisor:Mr C B TaylorClerk:Mrs C Burt, Administration Manager, Newbattle CHSThere is also a subgroup, called the Friends of Newbattle. Members of this group include parents,teachers and friends who wish to help the work of the school. The group have successfully hosted a rangeof events to support learning, host social activities and raise funds. In 2013/14, the Chair of Friends ofNewbattle is Mr Keith Mackie, and the Vice Chair is Mrs Marion MacInnes.For further information about the Parent Forum, Parent Council or Friends of Newbattle, contact:Mrs C Burt, Administration Manager, at the school (C.Burt@mgfl.net)21

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014Pupil RepresentationSection E – Opportunities for Our PupilsAt Newbattle Community High School, pupils have an important part to play in making decisions about thelife and work of the school. One of the ways in which pupils can have their say and make sure that theirviews and ideas are listened to is throughNewbattle Community High School’s PupilCouncil: the Pupil Voice.The Pupil Voice meets regularly to talk aboutimportant school issues and make decisions thataffect our pupils and their school.In the last few years, the Pupil Voice has:consulted on the new uniform, the new schoolbuilding project and the implementation of Curriculum for Excellence; met with school inspectors;presented to a group of Romanian visitors; discussed changes to the school curriculum structure; andconsulted on the whole school anti bullying policy.For further information about Pupil Leadership, contact: Miss S Wozniak (S.Wozniak@mgfl.net)Extra Curricular OpportunitiesThe staff of Newbattle are dedicated to providing thebest possible opportunities for our pupils. School staffregularly give up their own time to offer a number ofactivities for pupils outwith the teaching day.Available to the children are school trips, expeditions,visits, work experience programmes, lessons formusical instruments, and many more. These activitiesare all highly valuable, but it should be rememberedthat parents, in partnership with the school, mustexercise judgement in ensuring that the correctbalance is struck, and that for each individual,classwork is monitored, so that the level of out-of-classactivities does not unduly affect progress.Activities vary from session to session, and currently include:Football Jazz Band DanceDuke of Edinburgh’s Award Tai-Chi Self Defence SwimmingBasketball Rhythm & Blues Orchestra Scripture UnionGuitar Group Golf Keyboards ClubVocal Skills Choir Rock ClimbingBook Group Skiing/Snow-boarding BadmintonNetball Gardening Group Table TennisGardening Group Creative Writing Graphic Novel ClubCode Club Young Enterprise CheerleadingWe encourage pupils, staff and parents to see these activities as part of the curriculum, even though theytake place outwith the teaching day.22

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014Opportunities in MusicThe Newbattle Community High School Music department is a very active department with a rich anddiverse curriculum as well as numerous extra-curricular activities.In timetabled classes in S1, pupils sample six classroom instruments which are keyboard, guitar, bass guitar,voice, drum kit and xylophone. They thengo on to specialise in two of these at theend of S1 and throughout S2.We have a highly trained team of specialistinstructors who offer instruction in thefollowing instruments: brass woodwind strings guitar keyboard or piano percussionThese lessons have a small charge unlessyour child is eligible for free school meals. Bursaries are also available. As a result, pupils are equipped to bepart of our many extra-curricular activities, such as Rhythm and Blues Orchestra, Choir; Keyboard Club,Percussion Ensemble, Jazz Band and Guitar Ensemble.Pupils also get many opportunities toperform in music: School Concerts: everyChristmas and Summer. Theseoften have a theme withcostumes and have included ANight at the West End, SummerBeach Party and Swing Night. Musical Performances –including Trapped! (written byour pupils) and Back to the 80s.This year, our school show willbe We Will Rock You. Dalkeith Rotary YoungMusician Competition - opento all pupils and held every year.Community Events - Gala Days, Community Fayres and visits to residential care homes. Fundraising performances in shops and supermarkets both local and further afield.Midlothian Festival of Music - many pupils perform in many different groups at this annual festival ofMidlothian’s best musicians. This is held in the Usher Hall every year.For more information about music please contactMiss N Maynes, Principal Teacher (Music and Drama) (N.Maynes@mgfl.net)23

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014Sports and DanceBeing active and feeling well physically, mentally and emotionally allows every child in our school to have ahappy, active and fulfilling life in school: burning energy, learning new skills, and meeting new people fromdifferent groups. The PE department plays a vitalrole working together with the Home Economicsdepartment to ensure a strong ethos of Health &Well Being for every pupil and our community.Our PE department has excellent facilities with aSwimming Pool, Games Hall, Dance Studio, fullsize Astro Turf Pitch, and Grass Football andRugby Pitches. The department is staffed byexperienced and highly motivated staff with awealth of knowledge in many sports to assist inlearning and activity.The S1 and S2 PE curriculum includes:• Indoor sports: Basketball, Fitness,Racquets,• Pool: Swimming skills and water confidence, to allow every child to swim a minimum of onelength (top up courses provided free)• Outdoor sports: Hockey, Rugby; and in Summer: Athletics, Rounders and Tennis• Expressive Arts: Dance• Local Environment: Four local guided walks lasting 45 minutesThe school also offers opportunities to all age groups to get involved inDance, including after school learning opportunities, and our annual danceshowcase (December). We also deliver a Dance course in S3 and the newNational Progression Award in Dance in S4. This qualification is both apractical and theoretical course in which pupils will develop their knowledge,understanding and analytical skills through the study of Contemporary, Jazzand Hip Hop dance styles. In our choreography unit, pupils will develop theuse of choreography devices enabling them to create their own sequences ofdance. The Dance groups have also attended performances in Edinburgh,performed at our local primaries and for high profile visitors to school.The school has a huge choice of lunchtime and after school sports clubs,which include basketball, netball, dance, hockey, rugby, football, table tennis,swimming, Tai Chi self defence, golf, skiing,snowboarding and many more. The full timetableof extra curricular activities is published on ourwebsite every term.Newbattle has a number of thriving boys and girlsfootball, basketball, netball and rugby teams, and astrong pedigree of former players. We developboth individual and team skills and give our pupilsthe opportunity to represent Newbattle incompetitive games both home and away againstother schools.For further information about PE and Dance contact Mr B Foley, Head of PE (B.Foley@mgfl.net)For further information about sports clubs contact: Mr D Anderson, PE (D.Anderson@mgfl.net)24

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014School of FootballIn 2008, Newbattle became one ofthe first Scottish FootballAssociation (SFA) Schools ofFootball in the country. There arenow 22 schools of football acrossScotland. There is an SFA group inboth S1 and S2, with each classcontaining up to 19 boys and girls.The Scottish FA Schools of Footballare about more than just playingability, they aim to mould bettercitizens and develop social andacademic abilities through thevehicle of football. As part of theprogramme, pupils follow an enhanced timetable which includes a period of football activity every day.Football is used as a tool to motivate the pupils, and to enhance their social skills such as communication,listening and behaviour. The programme’s success is evaluated through factors such as school attendanceand academic improvement. Scottish FA coaches lead the selection and football aspects, but theprogramme is very much a partnership with local authority education departments, school teachers, activeschools co-ordinators and football development officers.For further information about the SFA School of Football, contact: Mr Chris Smith,SFA Player and Coach Development Officer at Chris.Smith@scottishfa.co.ukVisits and ExchangesThere are a number of opportunities for pupils to travel and enjoy new experiences, both within the UKand Internationally. In the past two years, wehave run (or intend to run) the following trips: a one-week visit to Cologne in June 2014and to Paris in June 2013, organised by theModern Languages department a residential University Week at theUniversity of Edinburgh for S2 (see page 18) cultural visits to London and Barcelonafor S3/4/5 pupils a cultural excursion to Rome for S5/S6pupils in June. In previous years, we havealso visited Barcelona and Venice an expedition to the Costa Rica jungle forsenior pupils in summer 2011 a winter snow sports trip to AndorraS1 and S2 pupils visiting the Louvre on the Paris trip a trip to New York for the Jazz Band in Summer 2014 a trip for the under 16 football team to Denmark to play in the DANA Cup international footballtournament every summerWe try to provide a variety of experiences every year, though we cannot guarantee that exactly the sametrips will run every year, as the activities depend on the changing expertise and interests of staff and pupils.25

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014Peak PerformancePeak Performance (PP) is an innovative crosscurricularexperience that involves all pupilsfrom S2, S5 and S6 for one period a week forthe entire year. Peak Performance is a trulyenterprising activity, which focuses ondeveloping our pupils’ leadership andteamwork skills.Departments from all across the school areinvolved. There are 20 different groupingsspread out over nine subject areas: PE SportsAcademies (football, basketball, rugby, dance),The Fashion, music and dance showArt & Design, Musical Theatre, CDT, Fabric Skills, English/Media, RME, Maths and Business Promotions.The focus for some of the groups is a whole school event e.g. a Musical, a Fashion/ Dance Show or a Play.There are a variety of sporting opportunities in coaching and playing in school teams. In all subject areas,senior pupils may be expected to take part and/ or support younger pupils, depending on the activity.For further information, contact: Mr T Leach, Depute Head Teacher (T.Leach@mgfl.net)PrefectsAll S5 and S6 pupils have the opportunity to apply for theposition of prefect in S5 and senior prefect in S6. Theapplicants for senior prefect are interviewed by the DeputeHead Teacher with responsibility for the Senior Phase. Allprefects will be expected to act as positive role models for ouryounger pupils and to contribute to the life of the school incarrying out various duties.The 2013-2014 Senior Prefect team is led by our Head Boyand Head Girl, Gareth Fleming and Andrea McGoldrick(pictured right with Mr Taylor).For further information about the prefect system contact:Mr J Fair, Depute Head Teacher (J.Fair@mgfl.net)26

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014Section F – Curriculum, Assessment and ReportingCurriculum for ExcellenceBringing learning to life and life to learningCurriculum for Excellence is now being introduced across Scotland for all 3-18 year olds – wherever theylearn. It aims to raise standards, prepare our children for a future they do not yet know and equip themfor jobs of tomorrow in a fast changing world.Curriculum for Excellenceenables professionals toteach subjects creatively, towork together across theschool and with otherschools, to share bestpractice and explorelearning together. Glow,Scotland’s unique, worldleading,online networksupports learners andteachers in this and plansare already in place forparents across the countryto have access to Glow.Teachers and practitionerswill share information toplan a child’s ‘learningjourney’ from 3-18, helping their progression from nursery to primary, primary to secondary and beyond,ensuring the change is smooth. They will ensure children continue to work at a pace they can cope withand with challenge they can thrive on.Curriculum for Excellence balances the importance of knowledge and skills. Every child is entitled to abroad and deep general education, whatever their level and ability. Every single teacher and practitionerwill be responsible for literacy andnumeracy – the language andnumber skills that unlock othersubjects and are vital to everyday life.It develops skills for learning, life andwork to help young people go on tofurther study, secure work andnavigate life. It brings real life intothe classroom, making learningrelevant and helps young peopleapply lessons to their life beyond theclassroom. It links knowledge inone subject area to another helpingchildren understand the world andmake connections. It develops skillsso that children can think forthemselves, make sound judgements,challenge, enquire and find solutions.27

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014There will be new ways of assessing progress and ensuring children achieve their potential. From2013/14 new National Qualifications will be introduced. National 3, 4 and 5 will replace Foundation/Access3, General/Intermediate 1 and Credit /Intermediate 2 respectively. Highers and Advanced Highers will beupdated to take account of and supportthe new approaches to learning andteaching. There is personal support tohelp young people fulfil their potential andmake the most of their opportunities withadditional support wherever that isneeded. There will be a new emphasis byall staff on looking after our children’shealth and wellbeing – to ensure thatthe school is a place where children feelsafe and secure.Ultimately, Curriculum for Excellence aimsto improve our children’s life chances, tonurture successful learners, confidentindividuals, effective contributors, and responsible citizens, building on Scotland’s reputation for greateducation.For further information about how Newbattle is implementing CfE contact Mr T Leach, Depute HeadTeacher (T.Leach@mgfl.net) or go to www.educationscotland.gov.uk/thecurriculum/Subject Areas Taught at NewbattleThis section aims to give an overview of what we offer. Much more information on all departments andsubject areas can be found on the Subjects and Departments section of the school website.English and LiteracyLiteracy is the key that opens allother doors in education aspossessing a command of languageforms a basis for intellectual,imaginative, moral and emotionalgrowth. With this in mind, theEnglish department is dedicated toensuring that all Newbattle learnershave the opportunity to learn, tobuild on prior success and toachieve their potential throughlanguage.The English department offerlearning through a variety ofmediums - reading, writing, talkingand listening. Course work is active, challenging and enjoyable, encouraging high levels of personalsuccess and the development of skills which will enhance life-long learning. Course work will offeropportunities to develop individual interests and encourage decision making skills building an individual'sconfidence to enable valued contributions to society. National Qualifications in S4 - S6 will build onprogress established during the earlier journey followed during the Curriculum for Excellence in S1 - S3.For further information, contact Mrs J Kernaghan, Principal Teacher (English) (J.Kernaghan@mgfl.net)28

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014Mathematics and NumeracyThe Newbattle mathematics course is uniqueand focuses on understanding and helpingour pupils to become secure and confidentwith their knowledge of maths. Pupilsexperience high-quality active learning andteaching techniques, such as the use of miniwhiteboardsto collect and discuss answersfrom every pupil in the class andcollaborative tasks, where pupils work insmall groups to discuss and solve mathsproblems; to lead to deeper, more activelearning.The S1, S2 and S3 courses cover all the keyareas of Curriculum for Excellence, with aparticular emphasis on developing a deepunderstanding of whole number, fractions,percentages and decimals as part of ourUnderstanding Number Project whichraises standards in numeracy from S1 to S6 bycovering topics such as mental calculations,fractions, decimals and percentages atprogressively more difficult levels. Following onfrom the success of this work, we have nowalso introduced an Understanding AlgebraProject, which builds pupils' understanding ofalgebra at an appropriate rate.For further information, contact Mr M Davidson, Principal Teacher (Maths) (M.Davidson@mgfl.net)Health and WellbeingBeing active and feeling well physically, mentally and emotionally allowsevery child in our school to have a happy, active and fulfilling life in school:burning energy, learning new skills, and meeting new people from differentgroups. The Physical Education department plays a vital role workingclosely together with the Home Economics department to ensure astrong ethos of Health & Well Being for every pupil and our community.Our PE department has excellent facilities with a swimming pool, GamesHall, Dance studio, full size Astro Turf pitch, and grass Football and Rugbypitches. The Home Economics department boasts three fully equippedkitchens, a hospitality suite and a fabric studio. Both departments arestaffed by experienced and highly motivated staff, who improve standardsin Health and Wellbeing by working closely together with a wealth ofknowledge of sport, healthy eating and nutrition to assist pupils indeveloping the skills they need to stay healthy and active for life.For further information about Physical Education or Home Economics, contactMr B Foley, Principal Teacher (Health and Wellbeing) (B.Foley@mgfl.net)29

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014Social Studies (History and Geography)Social Subjects help to develop pupils’ understanding ofthe way human behaviour has shaped our world.Through their coursework pupils learn about changeand the pace of change. They consider the causes ofcertain developments and the effects these have had.We encourage pupils to make informed decisions.Pupils learn to handle and use evidence to deepen theirknowledge and understanding. They also develop theirability to make judgements about the value of theevidence that they use.A variety of approaches to teaching and learning will be used within the classroom. Whole class activities,large and small group activities and individual work all feature. Discussion and class debate are central towhat we do. Pupils are encouraged to think imaginatively, and critically, in order to deepen theirunderstanding of the impact that people have had on the past, the environment and on society.For further information contact Mrs J Bakke, Principal Teacher (Social Studies) (J.Bakke@mgfl.net)SciencesIn S1 and S2, pupils follow a course which coversexperiences and outcomes relating to all three Sciences:Biology, Chemistry and Physics. The key areaspupils will study are: Planet Earth Biological Systems Forces, Electricity and Waves Materials Topical ScienceIn S3, pupils will continue their broad general educationof the Sciences. From S4 onwards, pupils have theopportunity to specialise in one or more of Biology, Physics and Chemistry.Religious and Moral EducationFor further information about Sciences, contactMiss C Philp, Principal Teacher (Sciences) (C.Philp@mgfl.net)Religious & Moral Education (RME) is included in thecurriculum for all pupils from S1 to S4. Pupils havethe opportunity to make sense of the world that welive in by exploring our beliefs and those of thepeople around us.Pupils will learn to give reasons for their opinions inclear, relevant and factual ways through topics such asan overview of major world religions, Making MoralDecisions, Capital Punishment, and The Holocaust.For further information, contact Mr J Mutch, Principal Teacher (RME) (J.Mutch@mgfl.net)30

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014Modern LanguagesAt Newbattle, pupils get the opportunity to learnFrench, German and Spanish. In S1, all pupilsexperience a 10-week taster course in each of thesethree languages on a rota basis. They then choose oneof these languages that they wish to specialise in for S2and S3. The opportunity also remains for pupils topick up a second language at a later stage if they wish.We focus in class upon Reading, Listening, Writing andTalking. We also develop co-operative working skills,ICT skills, presentation and research skills; whichenable pupils to become more effective contributors to increase confidence and to develop further ascitizens of the world and to become much more successful language learners.For further information, contact Madame M Leslie, Principal Teacher (Modern Languages)Arts and TechnologiesThe Arts and Technologies faculty offers pupils the opportunity to develop their engineering, graphics andpractical skills in various contexts using a wide range ofresources and equipment.CDT offers pupils a broad range of experiences both in theclassroom and in the open plan workshop. In the classroom,S1 and S2 pupils are challenged through units of workincluding bridge building, electronics, product evolution,marker pen rendering, the design process, materials andmanufacture, 2D and 3D Computer Aided Drawing/Design(CADD) and Desktop Publishing (DTP). S2 pupils are alsogiven the opportunity to print their S2 CADD design on thedepartment’s 3D printer.The open-plan workshop comprises metal, woodwork andplastic areas along with the associated machinery and tools. This facility allows the department to deliver abroad range of challenging course work giving pupils opportunities to be creative with their design andpractical skills in projects such as the thermometer, spatula, Art-deco trinket box and wind chime projects.Art and Design covers a wide range ofdesign and practical work in both theclassroom and open-plan area allowing pupilsto explore a wide range of creative techniquesand skills thus providing them with the buildingblocks to become independent and thoughtfullearners.IT also plays a role through the use of PCs andSmartBoard technology in all teaching areas.Animation has also recently been introducedto broaden the curriculum.For further information, contact Mr R Thomson, Principal Teacher (R.Thomson@mgfl.net)31

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014Music and DramaThe Music department is described in more detail on page 23. From S1 our students also learn todevelop their team skills in Drama, which engages them in a variety of ways. Cooperation andcommunication are very important aspects of the drama course throughout the year groups. Confidencebuilding is a key element and pupils work in a safe environment knowing the Drama Department policyenforces support and respect for everyone’s efforts.Drama also offers a wide range of opportunities to pupils who wish to take it as a subject choice in lateryears. As well as stage work, it also appeals to those who would like to develop their technical skillsthrough learning about Theatre Production, including Lighting, Sound, Set design, Costume and Make Up.For more information contact Miss N Maynes, Principal Teacher Music and Drama (N.Maynes@mgfl.net)Business, IT and VocationalThe Business, IT and Vocational faculty strives to offer a rangeof learning opportunities to meet the needs of all learners.Throughout the junior school a strong emphasis is placed ondeveloping skills for learning, life and work, with coursesfocussing on the development of business skills, ICT skills andenterprising attitudes.The courses we deliver are designed to offer an enrichingexperience relating to the world of work and the use of ICTin modern society. In doing so, they provide valuabletransferable skills and develop attitudes which benefit pupils inall other curricular areas.Other opportunities are also given for pupils to take part in business experiences, such as ‘YoungEnterprise’. There are also vocational opportunities to develop skills required for work (see page 34).For more information, contact Mrs J Knox, Principal Teacher (Business/IT/Vocational) (J.Knox@mgfl.net)The S1, S2 and S3 CurriculumThroughout S1-S3, pupils continue with the curriculumdesigned to provide a broad general education whichthey started at Nursery and Primary school. Mostpupils will work on Learning Experiences andOutcomes set at Levels 2, 3 and 4 of Curriculum forExcellence.The curricular areas covered in S1 – S3 are: Languages: English, French, German, Spanish Mathematics Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Physics Religious and Moral Education Social Studies: Business, Geography, History, Modern Studies. Expressive Arts: Music, Drama, Art and Design and Dance. Technologies: Craft Design Technology (CDT) and Business Enterprise and Computing Health and Wellbeing: Physical Education (PE), Home Economics (HE) and Social Education (SE).More information about each subject department can be found from pages 28 to 32.32

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014All pupils experience all of these subject areas, with gradual specialisation and choice leading towards thechoice of certificated subjects for S4. Emphasis is placed on cross-curricular literacy, numeracy, health andwell being and many departments co-operate in inter-disciplinary work. Skills for learning, life and work aredeveloped. The curriculum is designed for breadth, balance, progression and depth with the flexibility tomeet the wide range of pupil needs. The emphasis is on improvement to attainment and wider achievementand also the enjoyment of learning experiences for all pupils.For further information about the Broad General Education in S1, S2 and S3 contact:Mr T Leach, Depute Head Teacher (T.Leach@mgfl.net)The S4, S5 and S6 CurriculumIn S4, pupils enter the senior phase of theircurriculum and decisions about examinationsubjects are made. Most pupils progress totake eight New National Qualifications(NQs) at the end of their S4 year. All S4,S5 and S6 pupils will be entered for NQs asappropriate to their curriculum and level ofstudy. Some pupils may choose to leaveschool following S4.Returning pupils continue their curriculuminto S5 and maybe also S6. Specialisation infive separate subjects in each of these yearsis anticipated. Many pupils will progress towards New National Qualifications at Higher and AdvancedHigher level. The following table shows the names of the new National Qualifications and theirequivalences with older qualifications.New Qualification SCQF Level* Existing QualificationsNational 3 3 Standard Grade Foundation Access 3National 4 4 Standard Grade General Intermediate 1National 5 5 Standard Grade Credit Intermediate 2New Higher 6 HigherNew Advanced Higher 7 Advanced Higher* The SCQF level is a nationally defined number representing the level of difficulty of the qualification:For further information about the Senior curriculum and examinations in S4, S5 and S6 contact:Mr J Fair, Depute Head Teacher (J.Fair@mgfl.net)Course ChoiceThe options available to pupils are published in ourcoursing guides Which Course? (which lists coursesavailable for presentation in S4) and What Next?(the equivalent guide for S5 and S6). These guides arepublished around January of each year on ourwebsite and hard copies are distributed to all pupils.Parents have the opportunity to be involved in thedecision making process at our after school CourseChoice Evenings where school staff and careersadvisors are on hand to explain more about thechoices on offer.33

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014Qualifications vary from year to year and depend on levels of interest, but as a guide, in 2013, we offeredpupils in S4, S5 and S6 the chance to work towards qualifications in:English Maths Business ManagementGeography History Biology (and Human Biology)Chemistry Physics Art and DesignDance Drama Design & MakeMusic Health and Food Technology Administration and ITComputing and Information Science Fashion and Textiles Design and ManufactureEngineering Science Graphic Communication Practical Craft SkillsFrench German SpanishPE Sport and Recreation Hospitality – Practical CookeryPhilosophy Construction Craft Skills Hairdressing SkillsPrince’s Trust xl Accounting and Finance PsychologyAdministration Product Design Woodworking SkillsReligious Moral & Philosophical Studies Creative Cake Production Music TechnologyFor more information on the courses available in any given year, read the course choice guides availablefrom the Information and Downloads section of our websiteVocational EducationWe are committed to the development of qualityvocational education within the framework of aCurriculum for Excellence and we currently offeropportunities in Hairdressing and in variousConstruction trades which are delivered inpartnership with external providers, ACT andMcSence.The Hairdressing Skills for Work course isdesigned to develop employability skills in thecontext of the Hairdressing Industry. The focus ofthis course is on experiencing working in a salonenvironment, learning about the different roles andresponsibilities in hairdressing, developing industryknowledge and important and essential employability skills. If pupils are interested in a career inHairdressing this course will give them a taste of what isinvolved and develop valuable employability skills to helpthem follow their chosen career.The Construction Craft Skills for Work course isdesigned to develop employability skills in the context ofthe Construction Industry. It is especially suited to pupilswho have an aptitude for and an interest in practical craftswork. Pupils who choose this 2 year course will learn avariety of skills in trades-specific units – Carpentry &Joinery, Plumbing, Electrical, Painting & Decorating andBrick Laying. In addition, they will develop skills andattitudes that will help them gain employment, not just inthe construction industry, but in any career they choose.For further information, contact Mrs J Knox, Principal Teacher (Business, IT & Vocational) (J.Knox@mgfl.net)34

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014Tracking and Assessing ProgressThe school has robust procedures in place to track and assess pupils’ progress and plan future learningFormative assessment is a crucial part of the learning processitself and involves a variety of methods which allow very regularfeedback of progress to learner and teacher. It might involve peerand self assessment. This type of assessment is an integral feature ofall learning from S1 right up to S6.We operate systems to track pupil progress. Each pupil has apersonal support card which is completed several times a year totrack progress through courses and set targets for improvement. Inaddition to recording progress the personal support cards offerstructured opportunities for pupils to reflect on and record theirwider achievements. In filling in these cards, all pupils are required todiscuss their progress and targets with their class teachers. Trackingof pupil progress is also carried out through our electronic reportingprocedures.The Senior Management Team oversees the tracking records, using the information to assure quality andcheck that targets on attainment are beingmet. The Guidance Team also access theinformation to help them guide individualpupils through transitions and generallymonitor their work.Reporting to ParentsWe produce a full written progressreport to parents once per year.The reports are posted home, and aparents’ consultation evening takesplace in school shortly afterwards. Themeetings are held between 4.30 and 7.00pm on specific weekday nights through the year. A bookableappointment system operates for the convenience of parents. Parents are also welcome to makeappointments with Senior Management or Guidance Staff to discuss pupil progress at other times.Timeline of reporting and parents’ consultation eveningsS1 October: Abbreviated settling in report, and parents’ consultation evening with pastoral staffMay/June: Full report and parents’ consultation evening with all staffS2 February: Full report and parents’ consultation eveningS3 March: Full report and parents consultation eveningS4 January: Full report and parents’ consultation evening (after prelims)S5/6 October: Abbreviated report and parents’ consultation eveningMarch: Full report (after prelims)The table above gives a rough timetable, and the exact dates and times of parents’ evenings for any givenyear can be found out in advance on the parents’ section of the school website.35

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014Pupil ProfilesAll S3 pupils produce a Personal Profiledocument in electronic form, whichrecords their latest and best achievementsin and out of school. This is built up by thepupils themselves with support from theirteachers. It is hoped that various media willbe included in the profile.In future pupils starting S1 will bring aprofile with them from primary school.This will be updated throughout their timein Newbattle. It will grow into the S3Profile along the way, and help to formtheir CV as they prepare for life beyondschool.For further information about our profiling arrangements contact: Mr T Leach (T.Leach@mgfl.net)Sensitive Aspects of LearningSocial Education (SE): As part of the Social Education programme pupils learn about a range of issuesincluding: relationships, sexual health, parenthood and drugs and alcohol awareness. In S3 we begin todeliver the Sexual Health and Relationship Education programme, and at this stage all S3 parents willreceive a letter to inform them of the content of the programme. This programme continues into S4 andwe have a range of staff to assist in these lessons from the school nursing team and MYPAS workers.Religious observance: Assemblies may on occasion include elements of religious observance. End ofterm services, conducted by our local ministers, are held each session. Parents wishing to exercise theirrights to withdraw their children from any religious observance should convey their wishes in writing to theHead Teacher. Pupils withdrawn from these activities will be given the opportunity to do other work.36

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014Section G – School Policies and Practical InformationSchool ImprovementWe are currently in the first year of our three-year School Improvement Plan, which was formulatedfollowing wide-ranging and close consultation with staff, the Parent Forum/Council and the Pupil Voice.After careful prioritisation, the following priorities were agreed: Improved attainment and achievement for learners Introducing a model for S4, 5 and 6 consistent with A Curriculum for Excellence (see page 27) Improve leavers’ destinations Improve pupil and parental engagementFor a full list of priorities and actions, download our School Improvement Plan from theInformation and Downloads section on our school websiteSchool and Council PoliciesA full list of school policies, and copies of the policies are available from the school office on request. Moredetails of the most frequently requested policies, such as school dress, school meals, the times of theschool day, holidays and transport to and from school are given in the rest of this section.If you would like copies of any school policies, contact Mrs C Burt Admin manager (C.Burt@mgfl.net)The Midlothian Council Education and Children's Services Division provides details on policies whichestablishments are required to follow. Guidelines can be viewed by visiting the council website athttp://www2.midlothian.gov.uk/article.aspx?articleid=20072Times of the School DayMonday08:28 Warning Bell Tuesday – Thursday08:30 Homeroom* 08:28 Warning Bell08:40 Period 1 08:30 Homeroom*09:30 Period 2 08:40 Period 110:20 Period 3 09:40 Period 2 Friday11:10 Interval 10:40 Interval 08:28 Warning Bell11:25 Period 4 10:55 Period 3 08:30 Homeroom*12:15 Period 5 11:55 Period 4 08:40 Period 113:05 Lunch 12:50 Lunch 09:35 Period 213:48 Warning Bell 13:38 Warning Bell 10:30 Interval13:50 Period 6 13:40 Period 5 10:45 Period 314:40 Period 7 14:35 Period 6 11:40 Period 415:30 End of Day 15:30 End of Day 12:30 End of Day*Assemblies are heldduring homeroom timeas follows:Monday: S1Tuesday: S2Wednesday: S3Thursday: S4Friday: S5 and S637

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014School Term Dates and Holidays 2014Spring Term Pupils return Monday 6 January 2014Pupils Break Thursday 6 February 2014Mid-term breakAll return Monday 17 February 2014Term Ends Friday 4 April 2014Easter Holiday (revision programme in school for exam pupils)Summer Term All return Tuesday 22 April 2014May Day Monday 5 th May 2014All return Tuesday 6 May 2014Victoria Day Monday 19 th May 2014Pupils return Tuesday 20 May 2014Term Ends Thursday 3 July 2014Summer HolidayAutumn Term Pupils return Wednesday 20 August 2014Autumn Holiday Friday 12 th and Monday 15 th September 2014All return Tuesday 16 September 2014Mid Term All Break Friday 10 October 2014Mid-term breakPupils return Tuesday 21 October 2014Term Ends Friday 19 December 2014Further dates can be found on our website http://www.newbattle.org.uk/Information/holidaydates.htmlOccasional and Emergency ArrangementsParents will be given notice in writing on an occasion when a variation from normal school hours isplanned.Very occasionally, unplanned earlyclosures will be necessary forreasons such as extreme weather,or heating failure. On suchinfrequent occasions, it may not bepossible to give parent’s priorwarning of early closure.In cases of emergency schoolclosure parents and pupils areasked to access the school websiteon www.newbattle.org.uk to obtainpractical information about theclosure. The departmentalsection of the website should alsobe read to check what work pupilsare expected to do at home during this time, as staff are able to upload study resources to the websitefrom outside of school. The Midlothian Council website, www.midlothian.gov.uk, should also be accessedto ascertain the overall Council position where appropriate.38

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014School DressThe school operates a compulsory Dress Code. The Dress Code was revised in August 2012, followingstrong support from parents and staff. We depend upon the support of parents to ensure that their childattends school appropriately dressed carrying all the books and equipment necessary for the day ahead.S1 – S3 Dress CodeWhite self coloured collared shirt andNCHS striped tie Black trousers or skirt (black, un-fadedjeans will be accepted but cottons andleggings are not acceptable as dress code)Black footwearBlack self coloured jumper or cardiganmay be wornS4 – S6 Dress CodeWhite self coloured collared shirtand NCHS crested tieBlack trousers or skirt (black, unfadedjeans will be accepted butcottons and leggings are notacceptable as dress code)Black footwearBlack self coloured jumper orcardigan may be wornPlease note...Articles of clothing with logos other thanthe NCHS crest are not acceptable.Decisions on compliance with the dresscode will be taken by HomeroomTeachers and duty support andmanagement staff daily and will involveparents/carers as appropriate.All pupils are expected to bring aschoolbag, the required books and basicstationery to school each day.39

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014PE KitIn Physical Education (PE), pupils willrequire: suitable sports footwear shorts and a top for swimming: swim suit and towel for outdoor work: a tracksuit orsimilar warm clothing is advisableIf a pupil is able to attend school, but is notable to take an active or full part in PE lessons,they should still bring their PE kit, along with anote explaining why they are not taking partand for how long. The class teacher can theninvolve the pupil in useful activities such as timekeeping, scoring or officiating.For further information about PE kit requirements, contact: Mr B Foley, Head of PE (B.Foley@mgfl.net)Assistance with Provision of Clothing and FootwearIn some subjects, such as Home Economics orConstruction Skills, protective clothing (e.g. an apronor overalls) will sometimes be necessary, and will beprovided by the school.Midlothian Council operates a scheme of clothing grantsto assist parents in ensuring that a pupil is sufficiently andsuitably clad to take full advantage of the educationprovided.Families will automatically qualify for such a scheme if theyare:in receipt of Income-based Job Seekers allowanceon Income Support or Child Tax Credit but notWorking Tax Credit (subject to a maximum annualincome)on both maximum Child Tax Credit and maximumWorking Tax Credit (subject to a maximum annualincome)on support under Part VI of the Immigration andAsylum Act 1999Other cases will be determined according to the personal circumstances of the family.Parents who wish to apply for should complete an application form which is available from this school orthe Education and Children’s Services Division, Fairfield House, 8 Lothian Road, Dalkeith EH22 3ZG.40

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014School MealsSchool Meals are available in theschool cafeteria, known as the BiteSite. The school meals team atNewbattle Community HighSchool are committed to providinghealthy, good value food and lookforward to welcoming pupils everyday. The school meals serviceoperates:a breakfast bar at the start ofthe school day (8.00–8.25am)a morning interval servicea cafeteria during the lunchintervalCentral to a good education is good health. It's a proven fact that when you eat and drink nutritiously, youfeel better - and learn better.That is why the entire school management team and the catering staff are encouraging pupils to use theschools meal service. Not only are school meals healthier than going outside to takeaways, they're alsobetter value, with prices starting from just 50p for homemade soup, and a two course meal and a drinkcosting just £2.00.Pupils today can choose from a widerange of items and main meals, includingfresh fruit, yoghurt, baguettes, panini,sandwiches, salads, pasta, traditionalmeals and home baking - all prepared inthe school kitchen.Pupils can also enjoy a pre-order servicethat lets them pick up their food as soonas the lunch bell rings, allowing themmore time to relax and socialise duringthe lunch break. There is even a breakfast service, where pupils can ensure a good start to the day withfruit, cereals, toast and hot drinks.Free School MealsUnder the Education Committee’s policy, children in attendance at schools under the management of theAuthority are entitled to free school meals if their parents are in receipt of: either Income Support or Income-based Jobseekers Allowance and Child Tax Credit but notWorking Tax Credit (subject to a maximum annual income)or both maximum Child Tax Credit and maximum Working Tax Credit (subject to a maximumannual income) or support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999No other children are eligible for free meals.Further information and an application form can be obtained from the school or from theFree Meals and Free Clothing Section, Education and Children’s Services Division,Fairfield House, 8 Lothian Road, Dalkeith EH22 3ZG.41

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014Transport to and from SchoolThe Authority currently pays the travelling expenses of those pupils attending their district school who livemore than two miles walking distance from that school. Bus passes are issued where public transportexists and contract transport is arranged where there is no suitable public transport. Our six contract busroutes are:Number Route105 Greenhall Road (chip shop), Gore Avenue (at the bottom)109 Gore Avenue (at the bottom), Bowling Club110 Gore Avenue (at the top)111 Gowkshill, Hunterfield Road (Scotmid), Gore Avenue (at the bottom), Main Street,Birkenside Terminus, Middleton264 Greenhall Road (chip shop), Burnside Road (Wilson Road Junction), Newbyres CrescentTemp Lady Brae: Wilson Road, near top of Lady Brae, Braeside Road South, Arniston EngineWhere there are vacant seats on contract buses, these may be made available to pupils who are attendingthe district school and who are not normally entitled to free transport; however a charge may be made forthis service. Transport costs are also met in the case of any pupil whom the Authority requires to attend aschool other than the district school, if the pupil meets the distance qualification.Consideration may also be given to requests for assistance with travel in exceptional circumstances, e.g.where the road between home and school is deemed dangerous by the Authority, and where there is nopublic transport available. Parents who choose to send their children to a school other than the districtschool will not receive assistance in relation to travel to and from school.If a pupil loses their bus pass, a replacement pass costs £10. Forms can be collected from the office.To arrange a place on a school bus, contact Debbie Hunter at Midlothian Council on:Home to School Transport Section, (0131) 561 5453Employment of ChildrenThe school understands and appreciates the value and benefits of part-time employment for young people.However, this too is an area where a proper balance must be struck. Leisure activities, employment andschool work all compete for the limited time available, and it is important that school work and supportingstudy do not suffer.Children under the statutory school leaving age can only be employed within the terms of the Council’sbye-laws on the part-time Employment of Children. These bye-laws do not permit the employment ofchildren under 14 years of age, except in specific categories; for those over that age there are limits on thehours and type of employment which are allowed. Parents and employers must both complete anapplication form for an employment permit before the employment begins.Further details can be obtained from the Education and Children’s Services Division,Fairfield House, 8 Lothian Road, Dalkeith EH22 3ZGIn the case of senior students, the school relies upon the good sense of parents in ensuring that excessivehours are not worked.42

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014Child ProtectionThe Council has a range of duties and responsibilities in relation to the child protection procedures for allpupils which includes having regard for their right to be protected from harm and abuse. The school’sduties and responsibilities for this are set out in the Edinburgh and Lothians Child Protection Committee’s‘Child Protection Guidelines’ which are used by all Midlothian schools and our partner agencies.In circumstances where a school has a significant concern that a child or young person has been (or is atrisk of being) harmed or abused, the school is required to pass information to the Police, Social WorkDepartment and Health colleagues who have a legal duty to investigate further. While we alwaysendeavour to work in an open manner with parents and guardians, there are some circumstances when itmay not be appropriate to inform the parent or guardian that a Child Protection referral has been made orthat information has been passed on to these agencies. Under these circumstances, the decision as towhen and how parents and guardians will be informed is the responsibility of the Police, Social Work andHealth Services as part of their investigation and the school will be informed by these services of the actionthat they have taken.Should you wish to discuss child protection or any associated matter further, please contactMr C B Taylor (Head Teacher) or Miss S Wozniak (Depute Head Teacher); or theInformation Officer, Co-ordinated Services for Children and Young People.Health and SafetyThe Education and Children’s Services Division has prepared policy statements on Health and Safety for allareas of its responsibility in accordance with the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. Schools staff arefully instructed in their responsibilities in this respect, and safety regulations apply to all aspects of schoollife, both on and off the premises. It is expected that pupils will behave responsibly and comply with allsafety requirements. The support of parents in promoting good practice in health and safety matters is ofgreat importance to the school.For further information, contact: Mr J Fair, Depute Head Teacher (J.Fair@mgfl.net)43

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014AppendicesAppendix 1 – Midlothian Council Complaints ProcedureThe Education Committee has approved the following statement of principles and procedures:If you are concerned about......a particular aspect of our work, please arrange an appointment to discuss the matter with the HeadTeacher in the first instance. Where appropriate, the Head Teacher may nominate another senior memberof staff to act on her/his behalf.The Head Teacher will listen carefully to what you have to say, establishing clearly the issue(s) of concernand, if appropriate, providing you with any relevant information.In some cases, your concerns can be dealt with immediately; other matters may require more extendedinvestigation.In any event, the Head Teacher will notify you, normally within five working days, of the school’s response.It is anticipated that, in most cases, the above steps will result in a satisfactory solution for all concerned.If you are dissatisfied with the school’s response......please notify the Head Teacher that you wish to pursue the matter further.He/she will either review the proposed action or notify you of the appropriate officer of the EducationAuthority whom you should contact (see ‘Useful Addresses’).Contact the named manager by telephone or byletter at Education and Children’s ServicesDivision headquarters.The Parental Liaison Officer will investigate thematter and endeavour to resolve any difficulties.He/she will report the outcome to you, normallywithin five working days of being contacted.Nearly all matters of concerns are resolvedthrough the above procedures. If you remaindissatisfied, please contact again the officerinvolved at stage 2; he/she will review thesituation and/or indicate what other avenues areopen to you.In all cases, final appeal can be sought throughthe Chief Executive’s office.44

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014Appendix 2 – Useful AddressesBased at Fairfield House, 8 Lothian Road, Dalkeith, EH22 3ZGChief Executive Kenneth Lawrie 0131 271 3002Director, Education, Communities and Economy Mary Smith 0131 271 3718Head of Education Peter McNaughton 0131 271 3719Head of Communities and Support Services Ogo Onwuchekwa 0131 271 3721Education Officer, CSCYP Vacant 0131 271 3736Additional Support Needs Officer Susan Flynn 0131 271 3689Education Officer, Community Learning &DevelopmentPlacing Requests, and Primary School SwimmingProgrammeParent Councils, Child Performance Licences andEmployment of ChildrenAnne McConaghy 0131 271 3708Fiona Campbell 0131 271 3733Kevin McGuire 0131 271 3732Education Maintenance Allowance, Bursaries Gail Robertson 0131 271 3730Free School Meals and Clothing Grants Nicky McLean 0131 271 3655School Lets Mhairi MacLennan 0131 271 3705Based within Commercial ServicesHome to School Transport Section Debbie Hunter 0131 271 5453Scottish GovernmentVictoria Quay, Edinburgh, EH6 6QQHer Majesty’s Inspectorate of EducationSaughton House, Broomhouse Drive, Edinburgh, EH11 3XD0131 556 84000131 556 840045

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014Appendix 3 – Statistics about the schoolThe following statistics are the official statistics from the Scottish Exchange of Educational Data(ScotXEd).You can find more data about the school, and comparisons with the rest of Midlothian and Scotland atScottish Schools Online http://www.educationscotland.gov.uk/scottishschoolsonline/nearest.aspExam Results over past three sessions (post appeal)Percentage of S4 roll achieving: (*pre appeal)At least 5 qualifications atlevel 3 (Foundation) or betterAt least 5 qualifications atlevel 4 (Int 1/General) or betterAt least 5 qualifications atlevel 5 (Int 2/Credit) or better10/11 11/12 12/13 10/11 11/12 12/13 10/11 11/12 12/1388 88 87* 66 70 68* 21 25 15*S5: Percentage of original S4 roll (including those who did not stay on) achieving:At least 1 qualification atlevel 6 (Higher) or betterAt least 3 qualifications atlevel 6 (Higher) or betterAt least 5 qualifications atlevel 6 (Higher) or better10/11 11/12 12/13 10/11 11/12 12/13 10/11 11/12 12/1323 26 32 9 4 16 1 0 5S6: Percentage of original S4 roll (including those who did not stay on) achieving:At least 3 qualifications atlevel 6 (Higher) or betterAt least 5 qualifications atlevel 6 (Higher) or betterAt least 1 qualification atlevel 7 (Adv. Higher) or better10/11 11/12 12/13 10/11 11/12 12/13 10/11 11/12 12/1316 18 19 6 9 8 3 8 3Destination analysisThe data in this pie chart isbased on the leavers in session2011-2012.There were 176 leavers from S4,S5 and S6 in that session.Full‐time HigherEducationFull‐time FurtherEducationTrainingEmploymentOther KnownNot KnownSchool roll (based on figures on 24 th October 2013):S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 Total161 188 173 160 127 71 88046

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014Appendix 4 – Transferring Educational Data About PupilsThe Scottish Government and its partners collect and use information about pupils to help to improveeducation across Scotland. This note explains why we need this information, how we use it and what wedo to protect the information supplied to us.Why do we need your data?In order to make the best decisions about how to improve our education service, Scottish Government,education authorities and other partners such as the SQA and Careers Scotland need accurate, up-to-datedata about our pupils. We are keen to help all our pupils do well in all aspects of school life and achievebetter examination results. Accurate and up-to-date data allows us to: plan and deliver better policies for the benefit of all pupils, plan and deliver better policies for the benefit of specific groups of pupils, better understand some of the factors which influence pupil attainment and achievement, share good practice, target resources better.Data policyInformation about pupils’ education is collected in partnership between the Scottish Government and LocalAuthorities through the ScotXed programme which aims to help schools and Local Authorities bysupporting efficient collection, processing and dissemination of statistical information. The ScottishGovernment then provides analysis of the data to support research, planning, management and monitoringof education services as well as to produce National Statistics publications.Education data within Scottish Government is managed effectively by secure systems and is exploited as avaluable corporate resource, subject to confidentiality restraints. As part of its data policy, ScottishGovernment will not publish or make publicly available any information that allows individual pupils to beidentified, nor will data be used by Scottish Government to take any actions in respect of individuals. Datais held securely and no information on individual pupils can or would be made publicly available by ScottishGovernment.The individual data collected by Scottish Government is used for statistical and research purposes only.Your data protection rightsThe collection, transfer, processing and sharing of ScotXed data is done in accordance with the DataProtection Act (1998). We also comply with the National Statistics Code of Practice requirements andother legislation related to safeguarding the confidentiality of data. The Data Protection Act gives you theright to know how we will use your data. This note can give only a brief description of how we use data.Fuller details of each individual ScotXed survey, including the purpose of each and the published data, canbe found on the ScotXed website (www.scotxed.net).Scottish Government works with a range of partners including HM Inspectorate of Education, CareersScotland and the SQA. On occasion, we will make individual data available to partners and also academicinstitutions and organisations to carry out research and statistical analysis. In addition, we will provide ourpartners with information they need in order to fulfil their official responsibilities. Any sharing of data willbe done under the strict control of Scottish Government, which will ensure that no individual level data willbe made public as a result of the data sharing and that these data will not be used to take any actions inrespect of an individual. Decisions on the sharing of data will be taken in consultation with relevantcolleagues and individuals within and outwith Scottish Government.If you have any concerns about the ScotXed data collections you can email the Senior Statistician, PeterWhitehouse, at Peter.Whitehouse@scotland.gsi.gov.uk or write to The ScotXed Support Office,Area 1B, Victoria Quay, Leith, EH6 6QQ. Alternative versions of this page are available, on request fromthe ScotXed Support Office, in other languages, audio tape, Braille and large print.47

Newbattle Community High School School Handbook 2013-2014Alphabetical IndexAbsence ...................................... 12Achievements (pupils)................ 6Achievements (school).............. 5Additional Support Needs ..... 16Address (School)......................... 7Addresses (Counci)................. 45Aims ............................................... 3Assembly .................................... 37Assessment ................................ 35Awards Ceremony ..................... 5Behaviour ...................................... 4Biology ........................................ 30Bite Site ...................................... 41Break ........................................... 37Buses ........................................... 42Business Education .................. 32Camp (P7).................................. 13Careers ....................................... 18Celebrating Success .................... 5Chemistry .................................. 30Child Protection ....................... 43Choice (of subjects) ................ 33Closure (emergency) .............. 38Clubs .............................. 22, 23, 24Community ................................... 9Complaints Procedure............ 44Concerts .................................... 23Construction Skills .................. 34Curriculum for Excellence ..... 27Dance .......................................... 24Day .............................................. 37Depute Headteacher .............. 10Destinations of leavers ........... 46Drama ......................................... 32Dress Code ............................... 39Easter revision classes ............ 19Educational MaintenanceAllowance (EMA) ................ 19Email ............................................... 8English ......................................... 28Ethos .............................................. 3Exam Preparation .................... 21Exam Results ............................. 46Exams .......................................... 33Extra Curricular ....................... 22Facebook .......................................8Fast Track .................................. 13Football ................................ 24, 25Foreign Travel ........................... 25Former Pupils ...............................6Free school meals .................... 41French ......................................... 31Gala Days ......................................9Geography ................................. 30German ....................................... 31Guidance ............................. 14, 15Hairdressing ............................... 34Heads of Department ............. 11Headteacher .......................... 2, 10Health and Safety ..................... 43Health and Wellbeing .............. 29Health Service ........................... 17Higher Education ...................... 18History ........................................ 30Holidays ...................................... 38Holidays in term time ............. 12Home Economics (HE) ........... 29Homeroom ................................ 14Homework ................................ 20Houses ................................. 14, 15ICT ............................................... 32Literacy ....................................... 28Lunch .................................... 37, 41Mathematics .............................. 29Meals ........................................... 41Medical Conditions .................. 17Modern Languages ................... 31Music .................................... 23, 32Newsletter ....................................5Numeracy .................................. 29Parent Council ...................... 7, 21Parent Power Plus .................... 20Parents' Evenings ...................... 35Part-time work ......................... 42Pastoral ................... See GuidancePathfinders ................................. 14PE (Physical Educ.) ..... 24, 29, 40PE Kit .......................................... 40Peak Performance .................... 26Physics ......................................... 30Planner ........................................ 20Policies ........................................ 37Prefects ....................................... 26Primary Schools .......................... 9Fast Track ........................... 13Transition to Newbattle . 13Pupil Profiles .............................. 36Pupil Voice ................................. 22Religious Education (RME) ..... 30Religious observance ............... 36Reports ....................................... 35Roll ............................................... 46Rules .............................................. 4S1, S2 and S3 ............................. 32S4, S5 and S6 ............................. 33School Improvement Plan ...... 37Sciences ....................................... 30Senior Management Team ...... 10Sexual Health and RelationshipEducation ............................... 36Social Education (SE) ........ 14, 36Social Subjects ........................... 30Spanish ........................................ 31Sport ............................................ 24Sports Hub ................................... 9Staff List ...................................... 11Statistics about the school ..... 46Support for Learning ............... 16Ten Point Pledge......................... 3Term Dates ................................ 38Text messaging ............................ 8Times ........................................... 37Transport ................................... 42Trips............................................. 25Twitter .......................................... 8Uniform ....................................... 39University ................................... 18University Week (S2) .............. 18Values for Life ............................. 4Visits ............................................ 25Vocational ............................ 32, 34Website .................................... 5, 848