Remove 2021 / 22

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Welcome to the Senior School

A guide to life in Remove 2021/22


Dear Parents,

It is a great pleasure to welcome you as a Remove parent to the academic year 2021/22. We hope that the year ahead will enable us all to have a return to some sort of post-Covid normality. We believe that the close link between School and home is of vital importance in ensuring the progress of your daughter during her time with us. This booklet is designed to provide you with as much information as possible so that you have a sound understanding of what goes on during the school day and can support us in providing your daughter with the highest standard of education. General information about our School is followed by details of the curriculum which your daughter will follow during this academic year. The first year in Senior School is a very exciting one: new teachers, new friends, new routines and expectations and, for many girls, a new School. It can also be quite a tiring time as girls become accustomed to Senior School expectations and routines. Juggling homework, extra-curricular activities and out of school activities as well as family commitments is difficult and girls often need time and guidance to ensure that these many demands remain in balance. It is important for your daughter to embrace school life and its many opportunities fully, but I would ask you to ensure that she has time also for relaxation and sleep. At Queen’s Gate we pride ourselves on developing life-long learners. Of particular importance is learning how to embrace the academic and social challenges with which our girls meet on their school journeys. By fostering determination and resilience we believe that, at Queen’s Gate, we equip your daughter with the skills to enable her to succeed not just at school but also for the rest of her life. The PTA provides a focal point for parents, as well as raising funds for School and charity. Your Form Representative will contact you about coffee mornings and other events that you may wish to attend or to ask for your assistance at a School event. I do hope that you will wish to become involved with the PTA; we would be most grateful for your support. I wish your daughter a successful and enjoyable year in Remove, but, should you have any concerns or queries, please do not hesitate to contact me, Miss Spencer, the Head of Lower School, Ms Basham the Head of Remove or the Director of Pastoral Care. With all best wishes. Mrs R M Kamaryc Principal


Data Protection - GDPR The GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) is a law that was introduced in the UK (and the EU) in May 2018 to protect people’s data (information). It requires all companies and organisations operating in the UK and EU to have a Privacy Notice to outline the ways in which data is collected and used. At Queen’s Gate, we collect and use data to provide and enhance our pastoral care, to inform our academic tracking and monitoring, to ensure that all policies and risk assessments are informed by accurate data and to ensure that we fulfil our legal duties. You can read the full Privacy Notice on the School’s website here: http://www.queensgate.org.uk/terms

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Purpose of the booklet This booklet has been written to help you support your daughter during her year in Remove and has two sections: General Information, which explains the School’s routines, organisation and expectations, and Subject Details listed on page 27 which give an introduction to the subjects your daughter will study. For each subject there is a brief outline of the year’s work. 1 Contents - The Principal’s welcome Life in Remove 4 How May I contact the School? 6 Who is there to help? 6 The PTA 6 Settling into a new School 6 Our Expectations: The Code of Behaviour 7 Important Dates for the Year 9 Tests and Reporting Progress 9 The School Day 10 Punctuality 10 Absence 10 Attendance 11 Tuck Shop 11 Lunch 11 Lockers and Bags 11 Mobile Phones 12 The Dress Code 12 Extra Music Lessons 12 Clubs 13 Learning Enhancement 13 Challenge and Enrichment 13 Queen’s Gate Challenge 14 Homework 14 Homework Diary 14 Establishing a Good Routine 15 Rewards 15 The Queen’s Gate Award and Principal’s Award 16 The House System 16 Positions of Responsibility 16 Queen’s Gate School Anti-Bullying Policy 16 IT Acceptable Use Policy for Pupils 17 Using School IT systems and devices 19 Queen’s Gate Online Parent Accounts 22 Personal, Social, Citizenship and Health Education (PSCHE) 23 Physical Education (PE) 24 An Introduction to Subjects Studied in Remove 27

The information contained in this booklet is correct as at 31st May 2021. However, this information does not form part of any contract or agreement with Queen’s Gate School and the School reserves the right to alter the specifications and/or options, if necessary, during the period for which the booklet is in operation.


Life in Remove We also hope that your daughter will embrace the exciting challenges of life in the Senior School. Many girls are given positions of responsibility and have the opportunity to prove their leadership qualities as soon as they arrive. Form Captains, School Council Representatives, Sports Captains and Tour Monitors are some of the roles available. Inter-Form and whole-School competitions will reward collective and individual attainment and skill as well as contribute to the School. Inter-House competitions will provide stimulating opportunities for talented debaters, musicians, actresses and sportswomen to represent their Houses and earn prizes whilst the Queen’s Gate Challenge will encourage girls to work with their Sixth Form ‘Coaches’ on exciting, independent projects. We also have an interesting programme of clubs which your daughter will enjoy. At the same time we hope that she will find a balance between home and School life, spending time with her family whilst enjoying and maintaining other friendships and activities.

It is important that the girls feel comfortable and supported throughout this exciting phase of their emotional and academic development and that parents understand what to expect for their daughters. For this reason, you will find useful information in this booklet which will inform you fully about every aspect of life at Queen’s Gate: day-to-day routines in Remove and throughout the School; whom to contact with questions or concerns; how the curriculum is organised; and how the partnership between home and school is maintained.

Life in Remove

As its name suggests, the Remove year is one of transition in which pupils make careful, confident steps into Senior School life, rather than giant leaps into adolescence. Whilst it is true that your daughter will leave the School as a young adult, she arrives very much as a child, and it is the intention of Queen’s Gate’s staff that the environment in which she learns is also one that nurtures and protects, allowing her to enjoy her childhood. Consequently, the School calendar is organised to allow the Remove girls a gentle induction, with earlier lunch breaks as well as an Induction Week.

At a time when parents face the challenge of seeing their children develop rapidly, we appreciate the trust you invest in us, as we help your daughter to grow through her teenage years.

Whilst the routines of Queen’s Gate Senior School life will be new to your daughter, they will also provide her with stability and predictability, making her feel supported and helping her to organise her time. The dress code allows her freedom, but also requires that she conforms to common standards; an insistence on politeness and courtesy will be reciprocated by friendliness from others; subject and homework timetables will set her challenges, but will allow her to manage her time sensibly. With the help of her Form Tutor and subject teachers, she will acquire independent organisation skills.

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Contacting the School • Who is there to help? • The PTA • Settling into a New School

How may I contact the School?

via the Head of Year, Head of Section or Director of Pastoral Care. • MyQG: Your daughter’s timetable and a list of her teachers are available on MyQG, our e-learning platform, and will also be sent to you in September. Additionally, you will find curriculum resources and revision materials on the platform and some teachers set homework tasks via MyQG as well. All parents are strongly encouraged to make use of MyQG. Should you require any assistance logging in to this useful resource, please contact our IT support team at: itsupport@queensgate.org.uk

Please telephone the School Secretary Mrs O’Rourke on 020 7589 3587 or email secretary@queensgate.org.uk. Our policy is to route all communications through the School Office. Teachers are not able to be in direct email communication with parents because of their teaching and other commitments in a busy school day. The School Secretary can answer general questions or will pass on a message.

The Parent Teacher Association

Who is there t0 help? • The Form Tutors and Deputy Form Tutors: These teachers will see your daughter at three points in the School day and take care of any day-to-day problems.

The Queen’s Gate PTA is a working group of volunteer parents set up to provide a support network for parents and to organise Queen’s Gate social and fundraising events throughout the year, such as the Christmas Fair, to raise money for the school and charities. Each Form has one or more representatives on the PTA committee which meets approximately four times a year. PTA representatives also organise informal coffee mornings for parents and provide an additional link between parents and the school. We welcome input and involvement from all parents whether for a specific event or as a member of the PTA committee.

• The Head of Remove: Ms Basham is responsible for the year group and can help with any matters concerning your daughter’s academic progress or pastoral wellbeing. • The Head of the Lower School: Miss Spencer oversees Remove LIV and IV. • The Director of Pastoral Care: Ms Charlotte de la Peña can also help with any matters concerning your daughter’s pastoral wellbeing.

You will have been asked if you would consent to the PTA using your details for a contact list which will be distributed to you and other parents in your daughter’s Form.

• The Bursar: Mr Cubitt can help with any enquiries about fees. His direct line is 020 7594 4983

Settling into a New School

• The School PSCHE Consultant: Mrs Julie Johnson comes into school regularly to teach Personal, Social, Citizenship, Health and Economic Education lessons (PSCHE)

Experience shows that it can take a little time to settle into a new school. We do all we can to make your daughters feel happy and comfortable in their new environment and to help them become used to the new routines.

• The School Counsellors: Mrs Julie Johnson and Ms Araminta Scarfe are in school weekly to offer individual counselling sessions for the girls. These need to be booked in advance

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New friendships may form quickly or gradually come about during the course of the year.

• When a member of staff or a visitor enters a classroom, you should stand up until he/she has addressed you; you should reply accordingly before sitting down. • You should get on with your work quietly and sensibly in lessons. You should never talk when staff are talking and should put your hand up to ask or answer a question. • Classroom furniture and equipment should be treated with respect and should not be moved without staff permission.

At the beginning of the Autumn Term, Remove girls have an Induction Afternoon when they re-orientate themselves. The girls will be given a homework diary, which contains important information, such as our ‘School Expectations’. These diaries will become helpful tools for organisation and study. During the first week of the Autumn Term, various activities are arranged at lunchtimes, such as a tour of the School with a Treasure Hunt on the next day, to test out their knowledge. The School Prefects will help to run games and team-building activities to give all the girls a chance to have fun while mixing and getting to know each other. LIV girls (girls in the year above) will act as ‘Buddies’; they will be assigned to an individual Remove girl to show her around the School and provide a friendly contact in the early days at Queen’s Gate. Their regular visits will help to answer any questions and overcome any little problems which may arise.

Our Expectations: The Code of Behaviour

Personal Property • Never open another person’s desk or bag, or interfere with anyone else’s property. If you leave property (coats, bags etc.) unattended, it is at your own risk. • Outdoor clothes should be hung on pegs in the Form Room or kept in lockers. Bags should always be in lockers. • Money and valuables must be locked in your locker or given into the School Secretary’s office for safe-keeping. • No digital device that plays music, connects to the Internet or allows you to make a ’phone call may be used from 8.35am-4.10pm. Any such device must be switched off during the day and only removed from your locker when you leave the School. If you are found with a digital device around the School, it will be confiscated until 4.10pm and a letter will be sent home to your parents.

This Code of Behaviour is printed in each girl’s homework diary. It has been drawn up to ensure the smooth running of our School and to promote consideration for others in the School and in the community.

At Queen’s Gate • We expect high standards of behaviour at all times both in the classroom and outside. • We aim to create a community where consideration and respect are shown to all its members and their property. • Good manners and politeness are expected in all situations. In the Classroom • You should arrive punctually at each lesson with the correct equipment.

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The Code of Behaviour

Outside the Classroom • You should walk on the left in corridors and on the stairs and allow others to pass you. You must not create so much noise that it will disturb others. You must take care when examinations take place and obey any ‘Silence’ and ‘No Entry’ notices. • You must not chew gum or bring chewing gum into School. • When moving between the school buildings, you need to walk swiftly (without running) and watch out for traffic when crossing roads. • On the pavements you should show courtesy to members of the public; remember that a crowd of young people can be intimidating. You should also refrain from eating and drinking whilst walking near the School.


blinds. Silence is to be maintained. Lockdown will stop when you hear a further message via the tannoy system.

• If you arrive in School early, you may contact your parents on entering the building to inform them that you have arrived safely. This means that you may use your mobile phone, briefly, on the ground floor as you arrive at School but no girl should be seen using their mobile phone (or other personal digital device) in their Form Room or anywhere above the ground floor - even if the School day has not officially started. All such devices must be locked away safely • You may not bring your own laptop, netbook or iPad into school unless you have permission from a teacher.

If you see something which is a health and safety risk, you must tell a teacher or a member of the caretaking staff.

You must not • Bring any illegal substance, tobacco, e-cigarettes/vaporisers, or alcohol into School. • Smoke or vape in the School or within 500 meters of the School. The above are matters for suspension or expulsion.

The Code of Behaviour

Environment • Help to keep the School tidy; this includes classrooms, corridors, labs and other areas, as well as your Form Room. • Graffiti on furniture, etc. is not permitted and is considered a serious offence. • Eating is not permitted in the corridors or on the stairs and drinks should not be carried around the School. • Always leave the bathrooms as you would like to find them. • Chewing gum is not permitted in School or when representing the School at any event. • Help the School to recycle paper and other materials.

Illness and Accidents If you feel unwell or have an accident, you must tell a member of staff straight away. Normally you will be sent to the School Office where a trained First Aider will take care of you. If you are too ill to remain at School, or if hospital treatment is necessary, then your parents will be contacted and suitable arrangements will be made. Under no circumstances should you leave the School or go home without permission, nor should you contact your parents directly on a mobile phone.

Safety GYM: Nobody is allowed on the apparatus unless a member of staff is present. LABORATORIES: Nobody is allowed in the laboratories, DT workshop or ICT Room without supervision. FIRE ALARM: Silence must be observed. Leave the building in a quick and orderly manner, and line up in silence at the appointed place for registration. SECURITY LOCKDOWN: When you hear the tannoy announcement, stay in your classroom. Shut doors, locking them if possible, otherwise, blocking them with a desk. Close windows and pull down

If you need to take medicine at school, you should bring a letter from your parents stating when you need to take it. Your medicine must be left in the School Office. The only exception is if you have an Epi-pen or an inhaler for asthma. If you need Paracetamol, the School Secretary will only be able to give you a tablet if your parents have given written permission.

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Important Dates for The Year

Autumn Term 2021

Spring Term 2022

Summer Term 2022

Term starts End of term

Mon 6th September Fri 10th December

Wed 5th January Fri 1st April

Wed 20th April Fri 8th July

Half term

Mon 18th October Fri 29th October

Mon 14th February Fri 18th February

Mon 30th May Fri 3rd June

Please support the work of the school by respecting the term dates given and make travel arrangements accordingly.

Special Events Remove Induction afternoon

Thursday 24th June Friday 3rd September

Remove Parents’ Drinks

Tuesday 14th September 6.30pm

Autumn Term Pastoral Day (girls only) Wednesday 6th October Harvest Festival (girls only)

Thursday 7th October

Remembrance Service (girls only)

Thursday 11th November 10.45am

Remove Parents’ Evening

Thursday 25th November 5.30pm

Christmas Fair

Saturday 4th December 11.00am

Carol Service (to which parents are invited)

Wednesday 8th December Holy Trinity Church, Prince Consort Road

Staff Pantomime (performance for parents)

Thursday 9th December

Remove Showcase (to which parents are invited)

Spring Term 2022

Tests & Reporting Progress Autumn Term

Tests in most subjects during lesson time in the second half of term A Parents’ Evening to discuss your daughter’s progress Grade cards with test results are sent to you at the end of term

Spring Term

Full reports are sent to you at the end of term

Summer Term

End of year examinations in each subject Full reports are sent to you at the end of term

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Important Dates for The Year • Tests & Reporting Progress

Term Dates


Absence

The School Day 8.35

Absence from School should be kept to a minimum. If, however, your daughter is ill or there is some other legitimate reason for her not attending School, please contact the School as early as possible on that day by telephoning 020 7589 3587 and leaving a message on the answering machine, or by emailing: secretary@queensgate.org.uk

Girls must be in school by this time

8.40

Registration

8.45- 9.05

Assembly/ Form period/ House Meetings/ Hymn Practice

9.05-9.40

Lesson 1

9.40-10.15

Lesson 2

If you know in advance that your daughter will be away for any reason, please send a letter addressed to the Principal, via her Form Tutor, requesting permission for her absence. In the event of unforeseen absence, your daughter should bring a note of explanation from you on her return.

Break 10.40-11.15

Lesson 3

11.15-11.50

Lesson 4

11.55-12.30

Lesson 5

12.30-1.00

Lesson 6

EVERY SCHOOL DAY COUNTS

The School Day • Punctuality • Absence

Lunch 1.00-1.25

171 days in school year and 194 days to spend on family time, appointments, visits, and holidays.

171 days in school this year for your education

8 days missed (i.e. a week and three days of school missed)

100%

95%

Activities 1.25

Clubs or free time

2.05

Registration in Form Room

2.15-2.50

Lesson 7

2.50-3.25

Lesson 8

GOOD

3.25-4.00

Lesson 9

Best chance of Success.

4.00

Registration in Form Room on non-PE Days

4.10

Girls leave school

Punctuality

17 days missed (i.e. 3 weeks and 2 days of school missed)

25 days missed (i.e. 5 weeks of school missed)

90%

85%

COULD DO BETTER

Losing valuable time in lessons and getting behind with homework and revision.

Girls must be in School before 8.35am. It would be helpful if you could ensure that your daughter arrives well before then so that she has time to organise herself for the day and to give in homework. If a girl arrives after this time, she must sign the late list. If she is late three times, a detention will be given.

34 days missed (i.e. nearly 7 weeks, or half a term of work missed)

42 days missed (i.e. more than 8 weeks of school missed

80%

75%

NEEDS DISCUSSION

If you need to drop your daughter off early, the School is open from 8.00am, with a member of staff on duty at the door from 8.15am.

It would be challenging to catch up effectively.

Days off School add up to lost learning

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Attendance

peer groups. We would encourage girls to make sensible decisions. The Sixth Form Prefects are also asked to monitor the purchases of younger pupils including the number of items bought. We also request that parents put sensible limits on the amount of money that their daughters bring to school to spend in the Tuck Shop.

We notice good attendance and punctuality and the names of those with no absences and no ‘lates’ are read out in final assembly. In life, as in school, it is important to fulfil commitments and this starts with the basics of being present when expected to be, and on time whenever that is at all possible. Once the girls have established this as a rule in their life, they will find it a matter of principle and pride to adhere to it.

Should a girl’s attendance drop below 90% parents will be invited in to discuss support and strategies with the Head of Year.

Morning break is from 10.15–10.40am and lunch is from 1.00-2.05pm. Remove girls eat their school lunch or packed lunch in one of the dining rooms. They leave lessons 5 minutes earlier than the other girls at lunchtime to allow them a little more time to have their lunches. Girls who have school lunch are given a card displaying their name and photograph, which they are required to show the lunch staff. Anyone who does not have a card with them, and who requires lunch, is asked to fill out a slip in the Bursar’s Office before getting lunch. Please notify the Bursar by the end of term if you have selected school lunch and your daughter wishes to change to packed lunch for the following term. Clubs run from 1.25–2.00pm. Each girl is required to take part in a minimum of two lunchtime clubs per week. There is also a roof garden designated for Remove girls’ use at break and lunch.

Tuck Shop

Lockers and Bags

A Tuck Shop is run by Sixth Form Prefects at break times and is open to girls in all Years. A variety of snacks are offered and are selected in line with our School policies. We encourage healthy eating through our School lunches, PSCHE sessions, Pastoral Days, Biology and PE lessons; fresh fruit is available throughout the day. Crisps and chocolate are sold in the Tuck Shop alongside healthier alternatives, such as cereal bars. We discourage restricting or banning any food types as we believe that such self-consciousness can breed negative self-image and judgmental attitudes amongst

Your daughter will be allocated a locker. She will be issued with a key for her locker and asked to attach it to a named key ring or lanyard. She will need to keep this key safe as we will charge for a new one to be cut if it is lost. We recommend that you make a second copy of her key to keep at home in case she loses hers. She should keep all valuables safe in her locker throughout the school day and when she goes to PE. Your daughter may use any bag for carrying her books but should use one which is not too bulky and fits into her locker.

It is important for the girls to be in School at the beginning of term as an orderly start sets the tone for the rest of the term and a great deal of vital information is delivered in the first few days. It is also important to be there at the end of term in order to ensure that no lessons are missed, that any prizes can be presented and that whole school activities, which bond the community, can be enjoyed. For all these reasons, we ask that parents do not book holidays that impinge on term time and that any requests for early departure are made in writing, well in advance, to Mrs Kamaryc through her PA, Mrs Evans.

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Attendance • Tuck Shop • Lunch • Lockers & Bags

Lunch


Mobile Phones • The Dress Code • Extra Lessons

Mobile Phones

The Dress Code

Girls are required to switch off and lock their mobile phones in their lockers throughout the school day from 8.35am– 4.10pm.

Girls may not use their mobile phones during the school day and any messages may only be checked after 4.10pm. If you need to get an urgent message to your daughter before 4.10pm, please ring the School Secretary, who will pass it on.

Girls may wear: • Skirts or dresses which are no shorter than 8cm above the knee or no longer than midway between calf and ankle; or formal trousers of a plain subdued colour, eg; black navy or dark grey. • Small, plain studs for pierced ears (one in each lobe). • A simple neck chain with a religious symbol.

Of course, girls may need to text their parents to let them know that they have arrived safely in school. This should be done as girls enter the School. Once girls have ascended to the Form Rooms, mobile phones should be locked away. If a girl arrives at school early, she should not be using her phone but rather talking to her classmates, reading a book or similar. This means that mobiles used by girls in the morning, anywhere other than the ground floor (as they enter the building to inform parents of their safe arrival), will be confiscated.

If girls are seen using their own phone during the school day or if it rings in a lesson, the phone will be confiscated until the end of the day and your daughter will be asked to collect her phone from the Head of Year or Secretary. A letter will be sent home to you so that you are aware of the problem. If a girl breaks this School rule for a second time, her phone will be retained by the Head of Year and will only be returned, in person, to one of the girl’s parents.

Girls may not wear: • Any other jewellery in any other piercing than the earlobes (Sixth Formers may wear discreet jewellery) • Make-up, including nail varnish (Sixth Formers may wear discreet make-up and nail varnish) • Mini-skirts or floor-length skirts • Torn trousers, shorts or jeans (Sixth Formers may wear neat jeans) • Cropped or low-cut tops which are too revealing • Tops with sequins, large multi-coloured motifs or slogans • Frayed or ripped clothing • Exaggerated fashion shoes e.g. backless sandals, high-heeled or platform shoes which are not only impractical but dangerous in a building with so many stairs. • Tattoos of any description In addition, noticeably dyed hair is not acceptable and expensive clothes and bags are not suitable for school.

Extra Music Lessons If your daughter has opted for extra music lessons she will need to check the notice board outside the Music Room on the ground floor and make a note in her homework diary of the time of her lesson. These take place on rotation during academic lessons in the school day. If your daughter is interested in learning any instrument or singing, the relevant form should be completed. If she needs advice she should see the Director of Music as soon as possible.

Parents are asked not to text or call their daughters on mobiles during the School day.

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LAMDA If a girl has signed up for LAMDA

Club/Lesson

Teacher in charge

Any lunchtime clubs LAMDA (Speech and Drama lessons) Remove Drama Club (after school)

Mrs Stonehill Ms Doolan

Music clubs & lessons Director of Music PE clubs Ms Gover, Director of Sport

Clubs Music, PE, Drama and lunchtime clubs run throughout the week. There is a programme of sports clubs before School at 7.00am; breakfast is served in School following these activities. Other sports clubs and the Remove Drama Club take place after school.

Ms Arthur, Head of Drama

Learning Enhancement If your daughter has a specific learning difficulty, please make sure you have informed the School. It is important that we are in receipt of any reports or assessments (even if you do not feel that your daughter currently needs support) so that we are best placed to monitor her performance, and provide support should the need become apparent. This may take the form of extra lessons before, during or after the school day, or an invitation to attend a lunchtime club or a Homework Club.

There is a wide range of musical opportunities available to girls in Remove which take place before school and during lunchtimes. Any keen singers in Remove are most welcome to join a variety of choirs that perform at different services and concerts throughout the year. There are no auditions for these choirs. We have several instrumental ensembles that rehearse weekly. Girls will be invited to join these groups as appropriate. Any girls wishing to put their names forward to perform solos for Open Evenings, recitals or assemblies should see the Director of Music.

If you have any enquiries about this, please telephone or email the School Secretary who will pass on your message to the Head of Learning Enhancement.

Challenge and Enrichment

We also have a song writing lunchtime activity which meets once a week. This is open to any girl who is interested in developing her song writing skills.

The aim of the many challenge and enrichment opportunities at Queen’s Gate is to offer intellectual and cultural enrichment to all pupils and to stimulate their interests outside and beyond the curriculum. Challenge and enrichment provision is incorporated into the academic, pastoral and extra-curricular aspects of the School. Each department works to enrich the educational experience of students in their subjects and to challenge them to excel. This occurs both within and outside of lessons through, for example, extension tasks, wider reading, educational visits, competitions and visiting speakers. This academic provision is enhanced by pastoral and extra-curricular

In addition, all Remove girls will have the opportunity to sign up for a wide variety of different lunchtime activities. Your daughter will be asked to choose at least two of the activities offered. Remove has a special Picnic Club in the Summer and Autumn Terms, which is very popular and allows the girls an opportunity to spend their lunchtime in Stanhope Gardens or Hyde Park with their peer group. The following table should help you if you have a query. All teachers can be reached via the School Secretary.

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Clubs • Learning Enhancement • Challenge & Enrichment

(London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art) she will be notified of a time to meet the LAMDA specialist to arrange a suitable slot for her lessons.


Homework

activities such as the QG Challenge, debating, Model United Nations (MUN), the Wider World lecture series, the Duke of Edinburgh award and the Pastoral Days.

Homework is an extension of the study carried out in the classroom. It encourages initiative, organisation and self-discipline. In Remove, girls are expected to spend 20-30 minutes per subject once weekly, although Mathematics, English and French have two homework sessions weekly. Girls should spend up to a maximum of 1½ hours per night and 2 hours at weekends. The times allocated are, of course, flexible to a degree but, should you find that your daughter is spending an excessive amount of time on a homework assignment please stop her and write a note either in her exercise book or homework diary. If this becomes a regular occurrence please do contact her Form Tutor.

Queen’s Gate Challenge

Queen’s Gate Challenge • Homework • Homework Diary

This three-part project is undertaken by every girl in Remove, but rewards especially those who enjoy independent thinking. There are three stages of the Challenge:

1 Quiz - Pairs of girls are assigned a specialist subject, which they must research. They will go head-to-head in a quiz with another pair towards the end of the Autumn Term.

Good, regular homework habits are essential right from the start. Homework should be done in a peaceful environment and without the distractions of television, iPods, mobile phones or the Internet. Encouraging your daughter to begin her homework at a set time each evening will enable her to get into a good routine quickly and feel less anxious about missing deadlines.

2 Independent Project - Each girl will research and present a topic of her own choosing within the broader subject that formed the basis of her quiz research. For example, a girl who has been assigned World Politics as her quiz subject might decide to create a presentation about the American election. 3 Debate - Girls are placed in debating teams to propose or oppose a motion which is loosely related to their initial subject area - for example, ‘This House would give up Britain’s nuclear weapons’.

Homework Diary Your daughter will be given a homework diary which she is expected to take to every lesson and refer to at home. She should use it to note all homework deadlines and test dates as well as the date and time of any extra-curricular lessons she needs to attend. The diary contains pages where she can also record her timetable, teachers’ names, House Points and Order Marks.

Throughout the Queen’s Gate Challenge, Sixth Form ‘Coaches’ assist the girls with their preparation, providing an opportunity for the Removians to spend time with older role models. Befitting the philosophy of the Challenge, there is minimal teacher involvement. Once all three stages of the Challenge have been completed, points are awarded and the girls who have demonstrated the most creativity, independence and originality are rewarded with a trip during the final weeks of the Summer Term.

Homework is normally set on the day that the lesson is taught, and should be completed that evening and submitted the following morning. Some teachers may allow more than one night for homework to be done and will specify the day it is due. Your daughter should be able to plan her homework for the week and manage her time accordingly. If a girl fails to submit

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homework without good reason she will be given an Order Mark. This will appear on the front-facing page of the girl’s MyQG account. Further details about why the Order Mark or Detention has been set and by which member of staff can be accessed by clicking ‘see more behaviour data’. An Order Mark is the lowest form of sanction within the School and is mainly used to inform parents that a homework deadline has been missed. A lunchtime detention may be given if there is a further problem with the submission of homework. Parents will be kept informed of any continuing concerns over homework.

• •

Parents are asked to monitor and sign the diary. Please make full use of the homework diary as a means of communicating with your daughter’s Form Tutor and subject staff and to check that your daughter is doing the required work.

leaving it until the morning. Make sure that your daughter has a good night’s sleep (at least 8 hours) to cope with the demands of the school day. Ensure that mobile phones and other technology are not kept in the bedroom. Monitor time spent on extra-curricular activities. When girls first join the School they are understandably eager to start up several new clubs and activities, but you need to ensure they are not taking on too much and adding too much strain to the already busy school day. Insist on a quiet time before bedtime when girls can have space to unwind and relax after a busy day at School.

Establishing a Good Routine

Rewards

It is important to establish a calm and ordered routine for the school week. Remove girls need help from school and home to manage their time and organise their homework as well as any other commitments. Here are a few suggestions: • Encourage your daughter to tackle homework straight away. Once your daughter arrives home, she will probably need a drink and snack but should then start her homework. • Create a quiet space for homework which is free from distractions. • You can help your daughter by checking her homework diary after school each day and encouraging her to prioritise tasks, ticking them off as she completes them. • Monitor time spent on homework: some girls can be over-anxious and spend too long on a task which should take no more than 20-30 minutes; other girls may have a tendency to rush through tasks to finish them quickly. • Encourage your daughter to pack her bag ready for school in the evening, rather than

We recognise academic achievement, effort and progress, and positive contributions to the life of our School community. Our School rewards include:

• Merits (1 point) and Commendations (3 points) are presented for good work, special effort and helpfulness • Principal’s Certificates presented in assembly (6 points) for outstanding achievement and progress • Being invited to the Principal’s Lunch (6 points) which is held once a term in recognition of a special contribution to school life • Letters/postcards to parents to acknowledge a special achievement • Special privileges (wearing jeans for a day as the Tidiness Prize) • Prizes: Progress Prizes are awarded each term; Subject Prizes and other special awards or cups are presented at the end of the Summer Term.

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Establishing a Good Routine • Rewards

A very helpful book for parents to read is Detoxing Childhood by Sue Palmer (ISBN 978-0-7528-8370-0). It is a down-to-earth guide to helping children grow up healthy, happy and resilient in spite of all the pressures they have to face in today’s world.


Awards • House System • Positions of Responsibility • Anti-Bullying Policy

Queen’s Gate School Anti-Bullying Policy

Many of the rewards above have House Points attached. House Points may be lost if Order Marks/missing homework (-1 point) are issued for poor behaviour or (-3 points) if detentions are given.

Queen’s Gate School has an Anti-Bullying Policy which you can read in full on the School’s website.

The Queen’s Gate Award and Principal’s Award

Queen’s Gate is a small, friendly and supportive school and, thankfully, incidents of bullying are rare. To maintain this supportive atmosphere we must all work together. The aim of the Anti-Bullying Policy is to ensure that all girls learn in a supportive, caring and safe environment without fear of being bullied. Bullying is anti-social behaviour and affects everyone; it is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Only when all issues of bullying are addressed will girls be able to benefit fully from the opportunities available at school. For this reason, all allegations of bullying or unkindness will be addressed and girls may be questioned about what they have seen or heard. We do not accept banter or bullying is part of growing up. Girls are encouraged to stand up for others and we promote an open door policy so that small incidents are managed before they escalate. We hope that you will support us in this approach.

This is a special award which is given to recognise the number of House Points girls have achieved. The awards are presented in assembly by Mrs Kamaryc for the following numbers of points: 100 = Bronze 200 = Silver 300 = Gold 400 = Platinum 500 = Diamond

The House System Your daughter will be assigned to one of the four Houses: Douglas, Johnston, Spalding or Wyatt, named after former Principals of the School. House Meetings take place on alternate weeks and are run by the Sixth Form House Captains. House competitions take place throughout the year in sports, debating, photography, music and drama.

Positions of Responsibility All girls are encouraged to take on positions of responsibility, such as: • Form Captain: appointed by the staff • Form Representative: elected by the girls in the Form • Sports Captain: appointed by the PE staff • Tour Monitor: appointed by the Form Tutor The Form Captain and Form Representative attend School Council and represent the views of the girls in their Form. School Council is held twice a term

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IT Acceptable Use Policy for Pupils

If you become aware of a breach of this Policy or you are concerned that a member of the school community is being harassed or harmed online, you should report it to the Director of Pastoral Care. Reports will be treated in confidence wherever possible.

At Queen’s Gate, we aim to ensure that girls have good access to digital technologies to enhance their learning and we take every reasonable precaution, including making use of monitoring and filtering systems, to ensure that girls will be safe when they use the Internet and IT systems.

CHARTER FOR THE SAFE USE OF THE Internet AND ELECTRONIC DEVICES AT QUEEN’S GATE SCHOOL

All girls must follow this Charter which was produced after discussion between pupils and staff.

In return, Queen’s Gate expects the girls to agree to be responsible users. All girls are expected to follow this IT Acceptable Use Policy both in school and outside school. We may impose sanctions for the misuse, or attempted misuse, of IT. Remember that the School monitors use of the School’s IT systems, and that the School can view content accessed or sent via its systems. Girls should be aware that school email and Internet usage (including through school WiFi) will be monitored for safeguarding, conduct and performance purposes, and both web history and school email accounts may be accessed by the School where necessary for a lawful purpose – including serious conduct or welfare concerns, extremism and the protection of others. Any personal devices used by girls, whether or not such devices are permitted, may be confiscated and examined under such circumstances. All girls must recognise that the School can and will search for evidence of inappropriate use of technology if an allegation is made that a pupil has not followed this Policy.

Cyberbullying • Not join networking sites if we are under the minimum age indicated by the provider. For Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google+, Tumblr, Reddit, Snapchat, Ask.fm, Secret and LinkedIn, this is thirteen; for WhatsApp it is sixteen; for YouTube, Kik, Flickr, WeChat, Foursquare and Keek, it is eighteen, although users above thirteen may use these sites with parental permission. Therefore, no girl in Remove is to use any social networking site. • Tell a parent or teacher if we feel threatened or uncomfortable about anything online. • Use the ‘block’ or ‘report’ feature on social networking sites. • Keep names, addresses, passwords, mobile phone numbers and other personal details safe and private online. • Never put something on a social networking site which we would not pin up on the notice board in any classroom (applies to both words and images). • Use appropriate privacy settings when using social networking sites at home (N.B. Access to all social networking sites is prohibited when in school). • Take a screenshot of offending items, which can be used as evidence that bullying has taken place. • Not tick ‘like’ in response to a message or status which might hurt or offend someone. • Not circulate links to unknown or suspicious websites.

Parents and pupils are requested to read this document and return a signed copy to show their acceptance of this Policy and their support of the School in this important aspect of the School’s work. Acceptance of this Policy is a condition of access to the School’s Internet and IT systems. A deliberate breach of this Policy by a girl will be dealt with as a disciplinary matter using the School’s usual applicable procedures. In addition, any inappropriate use may result in the School restricting or withdrawing that person’s access to school Internet and IT systems.

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IT Acceptable Use Policy for Pupils

As pupils we will:


• Not access or share material that infringes copyright, and not claim the work of others as our own. • When we are allowed to communicate online with members of staff, we will use acceptable language which is appropriately formal. Messages should begin with ‘Dear Mr/Mrs/Ms…’ and end with ‘Best wishes,’ or ‘Many thanks’. • Not attempt to discover or contact the personal email addresses or social media accounts of members of staff.

• Not create, access or share content that is illegal, deceptive, inappropriate or likely to offend other members of the school community (for example, content that is obscene, or promotes violence, discrimination, extremism or raises safeguarding issues). • Not enrol other pupils in online chats unless we have their express permission to do so. • Not use another pupil’s personal property, details or passwords to access any website or app. • Not engage in any form of upskirting which is a criminal offence.

Safe use of technology and personal electronic equipment

Treating other users with respect

As pupils we will:

• Only access school IT systems using my own username and password, and not share my username or password with anyone else. • Use a unique, complex password, and change it immediately if there are concerns about its security. • Not attempt to bypass the content filters or other security measures installed on the School’s IT systems, and not attempt to access parts of the system that we do not have permission to access. • Not attempt to gain unauthorised access to anyone else’s computer or to confidential information to which we do not have access rights. • Not attempt to install software on, or otherwise alter, school IT systems. • Remember that the School monitors use of its IT systems, and that the School can view content accessed or sent via its systems. • Tell a teacher if we become aware of a data breach; for example, if information has been sent to the wrong person or if someone else has used my account. • Use privacy settings on social networking sites. • Exercise extreme caution in making contact with people we do not know through social networking sites. • Not create, access or share content that we know to be distressing or that encourages harmful behaviour, including material that promotes terrorism and extremist views. We will immediately report any such content, if we come across it.

IT Acceptable Use Policy for Pupils

As pupils we will:

• Recognise that the School’s Code of Behaviour and Anti-Bullying Policy applies equally to online communication. • Recognise that the School cannot guarantee the confidentiality of content created, shared and exchanged via its school systems, and that the School has a duty to report to parents or teachers online conversations which suggest that pupils are at risk, e.g. discussions of self-harming, eating disorders. • Ensure that our online communications, and any content we share online, are respectful of others and composed in a way we would wish to stand by. • Respect the privacy of others and not share photos, videos, contact details, comments or other information about members of the school community, even if the content is not publicly shared. • Treat members of staff and each other online with the same standards of consideration and good manners as we apply in face to face contact. • Pause for reflection before we press the ‘send’ button and read through our message or check an image so that we can consider the effect on the person receiving it. • Look after each other and report any concerns about the misuse of technology, or any other worrying issue, to a member of staff.

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• Not use any device to record, take a photograph or make a video within the school day or on school premises, without the express permission of a member of staff. • Not use a classroom computer without permission from a member of staff.

• Be aware that anything that has been deleted may be cached in a search engine, company server or Internet archive and cause embarrassment years later. • Not use the Internet to distribute malicious software, to damage, interfere with, or gain unauthorised access to the computer systems of others, or carry out illegal activities. • Respect and handle with appropriate care any school computer or other school IT property and will use it only in accordance with any training and policies provided. We will report any problems or damage immediately to IT Support (extn 444). • Log off and shut down whenever we finish using a computer, laptop or netbook. • Return laptops and other School devices to the charging cabinets after use and attach the charging cables properly. • Switch off mobile phones and other personal electronic devices during the school day and ensure they are locked away securely. We will not use mobiles between 8.35 am and 4.10 pm. If we arrive in School early, we will not use our mobiles other than to let parents know of our whereabouts. We, therefore, understand that mobiles used in the mornings anywhere other than the ground floor (as we enter the building to inform parents of our safe arrival) will be confiscated. • Understand that personal devices such as laptops and iPads must not be brought into School, unless in Form V–UVI – devices must then be registered with IT Support and used only for School-related purposes. • Understand that the permitted use of mobile phones and other personal electronic devices for Sixth Formers is a privilege accompanied by the expectation of responsible use. Mobile phones and other personal electronic devices must only be used in the Sixth Form area and should never be brought to lessons or private study periods in the Library, Library Annexe or Extension. • Not bring smart watches to School. • Keep computers and mobile devices out of bedrooms and avoid over-use of messaging and social networking.

Remember that the School monitors use of the School’s IT systems, and that the School can view content accessed or sent via its systems. Girls should be aware that school email and Internet usage (including through school WiFi) will be monitored for safeguarding, conduct and performance purposes, and both web history and school email accounts may be accessed by the School where necessary for a lawful purpose – including serious conduct or welfare concerns, extremism and the protection of others. Any personal devices used by girls, whether or not such devices are permitted, may be confiscated and examined under such circumstances All girls must recognise that the School can and will search for evidence of inappropriate use of technology if an allegation is made that a pupil has broken the terms of this Charter.

Zoom Protocols

https://queensgate.zoom.us/ In order to safeguard pupils and staff, it is important that pupils understand and observe the following protocols: A recording of each live session will be made by the School and stored in the School’s Zoom Cloud account. This cannot be distributed due to data protection regulations and will be stored in accordance with our Privacy Notice. Live-streamed sessions must not be recorded, photographed or distributed by anyone else, in any way.

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Using School IT systems and devices

All girls are expected to follow this Charter for the safe use of the Internet and electronic devices both in school and at home. Copies are given to all girls and their parents and we may impose sanctions for the misuse, or attempted misuse, of the Internet, mobile phones and other electronic devices when in school.


Using School IT systems and devices

Logging in and signing out • Ensure that you know your user ID and password - see IT Support if you have forgotten. Make sure you change your password once you have logged in with the default password, and change your password regularly. Use a complex password with upper and lower case letters, numbers and special characters. • Do not give your password to anyone else - this is against the School’s Code of Practice and could result in loss of access to the computer system. • When using a laptop, always ‘Shut down’, this will log you off and shut down the laptop. • When using a desk-top computer always ‘Sign out’, this ensures that your work is safe.

• Girls should be prepared five minutes before the Zoom session, in a family room that can be accessed by an adult - rather than a bedroom. Thought should be given to what is visible in the background of the lesson including those who may pass behind the pupil. As soon as she is able to join the meeting, she should check that the microphone/audio on her screen is switched on. The teacher may, however, take control of the audio, in order to control the class discussion. Pupils must have their video on. • Girls should ensure that they are dressed appropriately for learning. They should have a neutral background behind them or should choose a virtual background. Staff will also be dressed appropriately and will have a similarly neutral background. • Girls should use their full name (or initial and surname) when joining the session. • It is strictly prohibited for the girls to record, photograph and/ or share with others, the live streamed sessions, either via the ‘Record’ function on their screens or with any other technology. Should such a recording or photograph come to light, sanctions will be imposed and may include suspension from the virtual lessons. • There is a ‘chat’ function on Zoom. Should the teacher wish to use this, girls must address the teacher, and other pupils, briefly but formally. • If assigned to a ‘break-out room’ for the purposes of paired or group work, pupils must ensure that their conversation is limited to the topic of the lesson.

Press the ‘Ctrl Alt Delete’ buttons simultaneously to access these options.

Saving Work You are all allocated an area on the Server to save work. This area is called ‘Documents (P:)’ also referred to as the P drive. You must save work here otherwise you will not be able to access it from other computers. You need to be especially careful that you do not save work ‘locally’, that is, on the hard drive of the computer or laptop you are using. You will not be able to access this work from other computers. See IT Support if you think you may have done this. Housekeeping Set up a folder for each of your subjects. In this way, you can save work into these folders and keep your work organised. Ask for help if you are not sure about folders. Regularly check through your folders and delete out of date or unwanted files.

Using School IT systems and devices

Printing There are many printers in the school - all have a name and location so you should take care that you use the one best suited for the purpose. • Always choose ‘File’, then ‘Print’ and choose a printer; Do not click on the print icon. • If the document does not print, Do not print again - check the printer as there may be an error message on it; if so, refer to IT Support.

Over the coming years, girls will be making extensive use of IT for their studies. They may be asked to word-process essays and make notes; use spreadsheets for graph work in Maths, Science, Geography and History; use graphics programs in Art and DT; create tables to help with revision and use the Internet for research in all subjects. All girls must follow this policy:

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• You should not print to the IT Room unless you are working in there, as it disrupts lessons. • Always create a footer with your name and form so that your work does not get lost. • Do not print directly from web pages, as it is more efficient to save the work and print it from a Word document. • Think - ‘do I really need to print in colour?’ • Do not waste paper.

Remember that file sharing may only be used for appropriate document-sharing purposes in connection with School-related activities. Your Office 365 account also includes access to online versions of Office programs such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint. These are particularly useful when using a device which does not have Microsoft Office installed. MyQG MyQG is the School’s online learning platform. Many teachers set homework tasks on MyQG and the website contains an excellent range of resources for each subject, in addition to a wealth of school information. To log in, go to: https://myqg.fireflycloud.net Click on: ‘Pupil and Staff login’

Shared Work This is an area that you can access - many teachers put resources in this area. This is a ‘Read-only’ area for girls: you must save the document to your own area before you can make changes to it. Office 365 You have a school Office 365 account which can be accessed from any Internet-enabled device - sign in at: www.office.com Username: initialsurname@qgmail.org.uk Password: use your usual school network password

You can also access your Office 365 account and the School’s VDI system using the icons on your MyQG dashboard (homepage).

You have an Office 365 email account for school use, which is restricted to internal Queen’s Gate emails and MyQG emails for pupils in Remove-UV. Remember that your school email account should be used for school-related communication only.

VDI (Virtual Desktop Infrastructure) You can log in to the School network from any Internet-enabled device; for example, you may need to access documents saved in your ‘P drive’ folder or on Shared Work when you are outside school. To log in, go to: https://desktop.queensgate.org.uk Username: initialsurname Password: use your usual school network password

Remember to use formal language when writing emails; beginning with “Dear ...” and ending with “Kind regards” or “Best wishes” and your formal name. As a courtesy, remember to check your teachers’ preferred form of communication at the beginning of the academic year.

Data security Remember to keep your School accounts secure. Your password should be changed regularly and devices/accounts must be locked and password-protected when unattended.

Documents can be saved in OneDrive, and accessed from any device with Internet access. Documents should also be backed up on the School network drive (the ‘P drive’).

School accounts should only be used outside School on a password-protected device and where there is access to a secure WiFi network. Any confidential school documents should be accessed through Office 365 using the online browser, and not downloaded onto a personal device or local hard drive.

Documents can be transferred or shared using OneDrive or a school email account. Memory sticks and personal email addresses must not be used.

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Using School IT systems and devices

Username: initialsurname@qgmail.org.uk Password: use your usual school network password


Queen’s Gate Online Parent Accounts

If you become aware of a suspected data breach (for example, if information has been sent to the wrong person, someone else has used your account, information has been inadvertently lost, destroyed or disclosed or a lap-top or USB stick has been lost or stolen, you must immediately notify a member of staff.

If you have visited our website at http://www. queensgate.org.uk you may have noticed the links to our Firefly virtual learning environment (VLE) sites: QGBuzz (Junior School) and MyQG (Senior School), and to our iSAMS Parent Portal.

Appropriate use of School accounts and breaches of this Policy The provision of school email accounts, WiFi and Internet access is for official school business, administration and education. Girls must keep their personal, family and social lives separate from their school IT use. Remember that the School monitors and can access web history and email use.

During the Summer holidays, you will receive an email explaining how to set up your parent accounts and you will then be able to log in to the websites below. Please note that girls in Remove will set up their accounts in school at the beginning of the Autumn Term.

Any inappropriate use of the School’s IT facilities or a deliberate breach of this Policy will result in a sanction being issued in accordance with the School’s behaviour policy. This may include the restriction or withdrawal of access to School IT facilities.

MyQG (Firefly) Once you have received your activation email, MyQG can be accessed using the following web link: https://myqg.fireflycloud.net Your MyQG parent account can be used to access a wealth of information, including the School Calendar, School reports, trip letters and permission forms, information about clubs, your daughter’s timetable, any homework tasks set on MyQG and your daughter’s attendance and behaviour (rewards and sanctions) data. Once logged in to MyQG, you will need to select ‘Your Child’, or ‘Your Children’ should you have more than one daughter at Queen’s Gate, in order to display your daughter’s profile.

Online Parent Accounts

If you become aware of a breach of this Policy or you are concerned that a member of the School community is being harassed or harmed online, you should report it to the Director of Pastoral Care. Reports will be treated in confidence wherever possible. There are regular e-safety briefings and reminders about these rules. Data Protection All personal data on the School’s IT facilities is processed in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulations 2016 (as applicable), the UK GDPR, the Data Protection Act 2018 and the School’s Privacy Notice at http://www. queensgate.org.uk/terms

MyQG can also be accessed using the ‘Firefly for Parents’ app. iSAMS Parent Portal Once you have received your activation email, the iSAMS Parent Portal can be accessed using the following web link: https://parents.queensgate.org.uk

IT Support If you are unsure about anything regarding IT, please see IT Support. You can also email; itsupport@queensgate.org.uk or phone 444 from a school phone to report an issue when in school.

You will need a separate iSAMS Parent Portal account to access this website.

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and relationships, child abuse, and bereavement. The teaching offered by the School is designed to be supportive of the role of parents. • Sex Education is delivered through Biology lessons in Remove and revisited on the GCSE Biology course. Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) has now become a legal obligation for schools, for all pupils receiving secondary education, subject to a limited parental right to withdraw pupils from the Sex Education components up to three terms before the child turns 16. These lessons provide an understanding that a supportive, caring environment is essential for the development of stable, healthy relationships and that individuals are in charge of and responsible for their own bodies. Parents have the right to withdraw their children from any, or all parts, of the school’s programme of Sex Education. In this case, parents should write to the Principal, stating their objections. Parents will not, however, be able to withdraw their child from any aspect of Relationships Education or Health Education.

The iSAMS Parent Portal displays your daughter’s reports, assessment cards and information relating to GCSE and A Level public examinations (such as timetables and results). You are also able to update your contact details using the iSAMS Parent Portal. Website links to parent accounts Both MyQG and the iSAMS Parent Portal can be accessed using the ‘Portals’ link on the main School website homepage: http://www.queensgate.org.uk/ IT Support Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our IT Support team at itsupport@queensgate.org.uk

Personal, Social, Citizenship, Health and Economic Education (PSCHE)

• Our PSCHE programme encourages the acquisition of skills and attitudes which allow girls to develop in a responsible and healthy manner. • Pastoral Days: There are two Pastoral Days each year in the Autumn and Spring terms. Girls have individual interviews with their Form Tutors and attend sessions exploring topics within the PSCHE curriculum, as well as extra-curricular and enrichment activities.

This programme is part of the school’s commitment to strong pastoral care and is delivered in a variety of ways: • All Remove girls have a weekly PSCHE lesson and a Form period in which PSCHE topics are discussed. They include: • Personal identity • British values • The School’s aims and ethos • Financial Capability • Political Understanding • Our specialist Educational Health Consultant, Mrs Julie Johnson, presents PSCHE sessions during the year on specific topics related to health and wellbeing. • In Remove, the following topics are covered: • Mindfulness • Growing up and Puberty • Growing up and Relationships • Growing up and Wellbeing • Throughout the teaching of PSCHE, across the years, a variety of sensitive issues will inevitably be explored. In Remove, these include topics such as personal hygiene, sex

PSCHE

Parent Workshop - In the Spring Term all Remove parents are invited to a Parent Workshop on the topic of ‘Managing the Teenage Years’, run by Julie Johnson.

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Physical Education (PE) Physical Education at Queen’s Gate plays an important role in ensuring that all girls understand the necessity of leading a healthy and active lifestyle. It is our aim that the girls will improve their existing levels of skill, knowledge and understanding in a wide range of activities. They will learn the fundamental skills in a variety of different sports, also developing life skills such as co-operation, fair play, communication, problem solving and leadership skills. We hope that girls will develop an enjoyment of excercise that they can take forward into adult life.

Teams Girls are expected to make a full commitment to school teams if selected. Each girl is given the opportunity to try out for team selection through trials at our weekly clubs. If a girl is not initially selected then we encourage her to continue with the club and to work with us so that she can make her way up to team level. If a girl is chosen for a school team she is expected to attend all club sessions.

PE Trips • Ski trip • Team Building activity trip • Queen’s Club • Wimbledon • Biathlon training trip to Spain • Netball and Hockey tour to South Africa • Liquid Leisure reward trip

Physical Education (PE)

The approach that we encourage from the girls is one of hard work, self-discipline and fun. We work with them to get the balance right and aim to provide them with good role models. We strive for excellence in all areas of the PE curriculum and believe that every individual should have the opportunity to develop their skills to the highest level possible.

PE Kit - all can be purchased through Schoolblazer: www.schoolblazer.com Please visit the website to order your daughter’s PE kit

Facilities Girls are off site for their activities to give them the opportunity to focus on the necessary skills and to have the opportunity to participate in a wide range of activities, which will challenge all aspects of their physical and mental development. We are fortunate to have access to some of London’s best facilities for all areas of the curriculum.

Correct Autumn and Spring PE kit • Navy QG polo-shirt • Navy QG skort or QG shorts • Navy QG leggings (must be worn under skort, shorts or tracksuit bottoms and not on their own) • Navy QG tracksuit trousers (must be plain, no stripes or advertising) • Navy QG ¼ zip top • Navy ankle socks • Knee high navy socks for hockey • Supportive running trainers, such as Adidas – Stan Smith shoes (fashion trainers are not acceptable – the trainer need to be predominantly navy/black with a simple gold or white logo; see link on MyQG to the Nike ID option) • Shin pads • Mouth guard (Titan Mouthguards) • Navy QG wet weather jacket

When Tuesday: Battersea Park (Chelsea Bridge Gate and Rosary Gate) 1.45pm–4.30pm Netball/ Hockey/Cross Country (Autumn/Spring Term) Cricket/Tennis/Athletics (Summer Term) Rowing - Chiswick University of London Boat House Friday: Imperial College or Kensington Leisure Centre 1.45pm–4.00pm Gymnastics/Fitness/ Dance/Swimming (Autumn/Spring Term) Cricket/Tennis/Athletics (Summer Term in Hyde Park) yball/Capture the flag

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Extra-Curricular Activities Monday Toning and Conditioning/Indoor Running Kick boxing (all year)

7.00am-8.00am 1.05pm-1.45pm

Swimming (all year)

4.00pm-6.00pm

Athletics (Summer Term)

4.00pm-6.00pm

Gymnastics (Autumn and Spring Term)

4.30pm-5.30pm

Fencing Academy (all year - invitational)

5.30pm-8.00pm

Tuesday Cross Country breakfast at school (all year)

7.00am-8.00am

Biathlon Training breakfast at school (Autumn and Spring Term) 7.00am-8.00am Karate (all year)

1.05pm-1.45pm

Netball/Hockey (Autumn and Spring Term)

3.30pm-5.00pm

Cricket/Tennis (Summer Term)

3.30pm-5.00pm

Wednesday Netball/Hockey Club breakfast at school (Autumn and Spring Term - invitational)

7.00am-8.00am

Fencing breakfast at school (all year)

7.00am-8.00am

Indoor Rock Climbing breakfast at school (Autumn and Spring Term)

7.00am-8.00am

Dance Club (all year)

4.15pm-5.15pm

Tennis Academy (Autumn and Summer Term - invitational)

5.00pm-7.00pm

Thursday Toning and Conditioning/Indoor Running

7.00am-8.00am

Swimming breakfast at school (all year - invitational)

6.30am-8.00am

Fencing (all year)

1.05pm-1.45pm

Senior Netball/Hockey (Autumn and Spring Term) 4.00pm-6.00pm Senior Cricket/Tennis (Summer Term)

4.00pm-6.00pm

Fencing Academy (all year - invitational)

4.30pm-8.00pm

Rowing (IV-UVI)

4.00pm-6.45pm

Friday Junior Fitness Club (all year)

7.00am-8.00am

Fitness Club

1.05pm-1.45pm

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• • • •

Navy blue swimsuit (plain) House swim hat Swimming goggles House T-shirt

Mouth guards can be fitted by Titan Mouthguards on the school premises, they will be visiting Queen’s Gate in the Autumn Term. Information and a link to their online order form will be sent to you to enable you to purchase a mouth guard from them.

Correct Summer PE kit • White QG polo-shirt • Navy QG netball skort or shorts • Navy QG ¼ zip top • Navy/black ankle socks • QG sun hat/navy hat • Supportive running trainers, such as Adidas – Stan Smith shoes (fashion trainers are not acceptable – the trainer need to be predominantly navy/black with a simple gold or white logo; see link on MyQG to the Nike ID option)

PE Departmental Policy on Participation Parents are expected to notify the PE department by 8.30am (via PE@queensgate. org.uk) of any reason why their daughter may be unable to participate fully in a PE lesson that day. In these circumstances, the girls are still expected to attend the lesson in their PE kit and help out where appropriate. This allows the girls the opportunity to continue with their understanding of key concepts without having to participate practically. It is also expected that medical appointments are not made during Physical Education lessons. Absence is detrimental to the continued progress of any girl. We appreciate, however, that there will sometimes be extenuating circumstances; if this is the case, please notify us in writing as soon as possible about any absence.

You may also wear • Navy or black gloves • Navy or black long sleeve T-shirt underneath a polo-shirt • Navy or black woollen hat You may not wear/bring • Any jewellery (including watches) • Earrings • Scarves • Any other coloured clothing • Mobile phones • iPods or any digital device • Money for vending machines

Collection after lessons We request that parents collect their daughters from School at 4.10pm after their timetabled lessons, except Tuesdays which is at 4.30pm. Double Parking We ask that you do not park outside the School if you have not managed to find a parking space. We have three large coaches to park outside School to enable the girls to disembark safely. If you are in a position that is obstructing the safe return of the coaches, we will have to ask you to move.

We also ask that all girls tie their hair back when in PE kit. All PE kit must be labelled. It is each girl’s responsibility to collect her own PE kit at the end of each lesson/club. To maintain a safe environment and encourage all girls to look smart, we issue Order Marks to those who persistently wear incorrect PE kit. Girls will be given a warning (Kit Mark) the first time and, thereafter, will receive an Order Mark and a lunchtime detention. If a girl receives more than three warnings in a term, parents will be notified.

If you have any queries please contact the PE Department by emailing; pe@queensgate.org.uk

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Art and Design

28

Biology

28

Chemistry

29

Computer Science

30

Drama

30

English

31

French

32

Geography

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History

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Latin

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Mathematics

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Music

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Physics

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Design & Technology 36 Religious Studies

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Subject Details Remove

Subject details Remove


An Introduction to the Subjects Studied in Remove

Art and Design

Biology

Autumn Term

Biology is taught as a separate science at Queen’s Gate.

Introduction to drawing and formal elements in Art using natural forms:

Girls will already have studied general science at their previous schools and so should have a basic grounding in the initial concepts of biological science. Biology is essentially a practical subject, both in the laboratory and in the field, and during the first year it is important that girls develop an understanding of basic biological facts and principles, and appreciation of their significance. Practical work will involve observation of biological material (living and dead), and carrying out simple experimental investigations in the laboratory.

Introduction to primary observational drawing using natural forms; tonal drawing will be taught and encouraged. Girls will be introduced to the work of different artists who are inspired by natural forms and will produce mixed media outcomes choosing from a wide variety of starting points to further develop their drawing skills.

Spring Term

Art & Design • Biology • Chemistry

Introduction to sculpture and wet media:

In Remove girls cover the following topics:

Girls will be introduced to the sculptural work of artists who are working in ceramics, metal, wood and mixed media. They will produce two final outcomes in clay and mixed media based on observational work and learn about formal analysis of their own work and work of other artists

Life

a) b) c) d)

Cells Tissues New cells from old Cells, organs and transplants

Reproduction

Summer Term

a) b) c) d)

Developing skills and techniques important for collaborative projects Girls will be introduced to the work of a portraiture artist Chuck Close. Working individually and in class groups they will compose giant portraits of the teachers in the art department. Possible guest appearance by a local portrait artist Gabriella Marchini will introduce classes to the painting of portrait in the live demonstration.

The structure of the reproductive system Fertilisation Growing in the womb/birth Puberty

Variation and classification a) b) c) d) e)

Variation What causes variation Charles Darwin and Evolution Selective breeding Classification

Habitats and chains a) b) c) d)

Habitats Food chains and food webs Survival Adaptation

The textbook used is: CGP KS3 Biology Study and Question Book Higher ISBN 9781782941101.

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Chemistry The first year of the Chemistry course is designed to stimulate the girls’ interest in the subject, and give an awareness of the importance of Chemistry in our every day lives. Practical work is carried out in most lessons as experiments and confidence in the laboratory are essential parts of Remove Chemistry alongside fair testing and understanding variables.

e) f) g) i)

Identifying Scientific Apparatus Products of Combustion The Fire Triangle Fair testing and variables

Acids and Alkalis a) What are acids? b) What are alkalis? c) Neutralisation d) Making Salts e) Making red cabbage indicator f) pH table g) Useful acids and alkalis

Topics covered in the first term will be defining What is Matter? Particle Theory, the chemistry of solutions and combustion will introduce the wide range of topics studied in this subject. In the second term we will study acids, alkalis and salts, investigating detergents and hardness of water, and finally looking at “Separating Techniques” in the Summer Term which introduces the girls to uses of Chemistry in Society.

Chemistry in Society a) Gases in the Air b) Causes of hardness in Water c) Separating Techniques of Mixtures d) ICT Project: Recycling The textbooks used are: Chemistry 11-14 by Iain Brain and Richard Grime. CGP Chemistry Higher Revision Book.

What is Matter? a) Safety in the laboratory b) States of Matter c) Solutes, solvents and solutions d) Particle Theory and Brownian Motion

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Computer Science Product Design

Drama

The‘Design focus of and Computer lies on the All Make’ Science Projects, while they may acquisition problem-solving skills through each have aof different focus, include: teaching ofaprogramming concepts in a •theIdentifying need of programming languages. Initial •variety Research •programming First ideas skills are built using the blockprogramming language •based Development of Final Idea Scratch, followed the introduction of text-based programming •by Realisation such as Small Basic and Python. •languages Evaluation

The objectives of Drama in Remove are: • To work co-operatively with others • To share ideas • To be creative • To use imagination • To appreciate the performances of others • To develop self-confidence • To use dramatic text for performance • To develop speaking and moving skills

There is anTerm opportunity for girls to be creative Autumn

Autumn Term

with their computing. We create geometrical Safety in the workshop / Wooden Jigsaw Puzzle: using Small Basic, whilst simultaneously •shapes Focus: Resistant Materials (wood/plastic) andwith practising •learning Working tools –some handkey andconcepts machineof programming. We are signed up to •computer Working in MDF BBC micro:bit scheme and girls have the •theFinishing build their own database. •opportunity Packagingtousing vacuum forming

Girls will do activities to outline the skills required to work in a team, emphasising the importance of listening to others and sharing ideas. They will work on a sequence of theme-based lessons which will develop their imagination and ability to work in a variety of roles. Girls will perform devised and scripted work in front of others. The techniques they will focus on are the use of narrator, storytelling, thought tracking, freeze-frame, tableaux, mime and improvisation.

Computer Science • Drama • English

Programming Spring Termteaches girls invaluable

transferableOlympic skills. Computational thinking Designing swimming goggles requires girls to break a large problem down packaging: smaller chunks and plan solutions in detail. •intoFocus: Design Process, Graphic techniques codegroups is also taught as a discrete skill •Debugging Needs, User this helps encourage girls to be resilient: if •andGraphic symbols, scale, layout does not work as expected, don’t give •something Computer Graphics (Illustrator) up; analyse the evidence and find solutions until it works. Term Summer Acrylic Keyring: number of students routinely use •A high Focus: Resistant Materials/CAD/CAM Internet for research and to other tasks,design it is •theAdobe Illustrator software produce essential to to learn howthe thekeyring Internet •therefore Use of laser cutter create and howby webpages •works Assembling hand are created using the mark-up language HTML. E-safety is covered extensively at theExamination beginning of the year, ensuring School Summer that students are aware of rules for safe Internet Focus: and the school’s with regards to social •useSafety, Tools and rules Equipment sites and communication applications. skills •networking Design, graphical • Packaging Alongside programming and problem solving, traditional ICT skills such as word processing, spreadsheets modelling and the creation of presentations in Microsoft Office are taught. These are vital skills that will support their learning in other subject areas from English, History to the sciences and beyond.

Spring Term

The use of dramatic techniques will be developed further with emphasis on characterisation, physical theatre, movement, monologue, and scene building. Girls will perform extended pieces of work from texts to show their understanding of the drama medium. Evaluation of their work and that of others will be emphasised.

Summer Term

This term the focus will be on storytelling and narrative techniques using classical tales, eg Ancient Greek Myths and traditional European, eg Hans Christian Anderson. Audience awareness and creative use of space will be important considerations in performance work. Their knowledge of drama techniques, theatre terms, and the language of drama will be tested in the summer term.

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capital alongside their skills in the core areas of reading, writing, speaking and listening. We study fiction, drama, poetry and non-fiction texts with the focus being on using those texts as the tools for developing skills needed across the curriculum and as a high-quality communicator

Throughout the year, girls will keep a journal to record and evaluate their acting development, design ideas, creative scriptwriting, and reviews of live performances, including professional productions.

Improving accuracy in spelling, punctuation and grammar is an important part of English in Remove, and girls must check their work in green pen prior to submission for these errors, but also to make improvements in the quality of their thinking, vocabulary and explanation. Homework is assessed with explicit strengths and targets; an important ingredient in the success of Queen’s Gate pupils in English is their attention to the specific and personal targets, set by their teachers with a vision of what makes excellent work. We record these targets and expect to see them being applied to the next piece of work.

Extra-curricular activities include Remove Drama Society, LAMDA and House Drama

English Our aim is to make English an exciting and enjoyable subject. Every girl can learn to harness the power of language to express their creativity and to shape meaning, whilst also learning to analyse a range of literary genres from across the canon. We want to foster a love of literature as well as an awareness of the need for clear and correct expression in a variety of forms of writing and speaking, building a strong foundation for the years ahead.

The girls are given a baseline assessment when they enter the school whilst tests in the Autumn and Spring Terms and an examination in the Summer Term provide formal assessment of the girls’ progress.

Independent reading is essential for development of literacy and imagination in addition to providing a lifelong source of happy escapism: girls can use tailored reading lists (available on MyQG) and keep reading logs. Sharing reading time and experiences of reading is an important aspect of the girls’ lessons and a single lesson is dedicated to silent reading every week. The library is well stocked, our School Librarian is an expert and induction lessons are provided at the beginning of the year in addition to a series of book talks in the library throughout the year. In order to foster a love of reading and to encourage the girls to make links across texts, we are introducing a Rich Curriculum Reading Project with thematic links to ‘The Tempest’, in the Spring Term.

Extra-curricular activities include optional Creative Writing Club and Debating Club, as well as a Book Club run by the school librarian. Girls are encouraged to enter the Creative Writing and Verse Speaking competitions that take place in the Summer Term. Below is a list of the texts studied in Remove:

Autumn Term

Induction followed by a creative writing unit based around a series of short stories, ranging from Ray Bradbury to Sherlock Holmes to Andrea Levy. The girls learn to review a range of genres and literary periods, culminating in them writing their own stories.

Spring Term

We study an abridged version of Shakespeare’s ‘The Tempest’ and begin the Rich Curriculum Reading Project.

In English classes, challenging texts are made accessible through creative approaches and differentiated tasks, designed to support and stretch girls so that they are able to reach their full potential and enjoy their development. We look to choose texts that have cultural significance so as to develop our girls’ cultural

Summer Term

We will further develop our study of prose with a whole class novel.

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French Pupils who are native French speakers are taught in a separate group called ‘Section Tricolore’. They follow a more advanced curriculum and at a faster pace. They study French literature, learn poems and develop their knowledge of French culture. In grammar, pupils revise the main tenses, and study new grammar points. Written and oral expressions are developed through a variety of activities. Accuracy, both orally and in writing, remains a very important target of language acquisition. This section is usually quite small in numbers so pupils receive high levels of individual attention from the teacher. Pupils in ‘section tricolore’ generally take their French IGCSE two years early, at the end of Form IV, if they are ready to achieve a top grade in their public examination.

French • Geography • History • Latin

French is taught by a team of native speakers whose aim is to make the learning of French a rewarding and enriching process. In addition to the textbook we use authentic resources such as songs, film extracts, children’s books and magazines to give authenticity to the language. The girls develop their language skills in a stimulating environment, by communicating early on in writing and orally while, at the same time, building on a solid grammar basis. Enjoyment and rigor are therefore the main guiding principles in our lesson planning. We use a variety of online resources to provide extra practice of the language. The girls have regular access to the following websites: VocabExpress, Linguascope and LanguagesOnline. These websites are used for independent learning at home and for homework tasks.

Geography

In their first year of French, the girls will learn the following topics: Thèmes le nom et l’âge name and age les chiffres jusqu’à 100 numbers until 100 les jours de la semaine et les mois days of the week and months la famille family les couleurs et les vêtements colours and clothes les animaux animals là où j’habite where I live les loisirs leisure activities les fêtes et les festivals festivals and parties l’heure the time les matières scolaires school subjects le temps the weather

During the year the following topics will be studied:

Autumn Term

Introduction to Geography and the UK: What is Geography? The physical map of the UK; locating seas, rivers and the pattern of relief The world map and continents The use of latitude and longitude

Spring Term

OS Map Skills: Map skills learnt this term include: four figure grid references using OS maps, compass points and direction, contour lines, mapmaking, and developing the use of the atlas as a resource of information.

These topics are learnt through the four skill areas: reading, writing, listening and speaking. A strong emphasis is placed on the use of French in the classroom.

Summer Term

Grammar Definite article; Indefinite article; Prepositions; Adjectives; Demonstrative articles; Possessive articles; Use of numbers; Expressions of quantity; The present tense; Negative sentences.

Weather and Climate: The differences between weather and climate The components and links in the water cycle Measuring and forecasting weather together with a study of the UK climate.

The textbook used is: Encore Tricolore 1 Nouvelle Edition Textbook. Worksheets are linked to the book.

The textbooks used are: New Key Geography Foundations, Nelson Thornes. Philips Modern School Atlas.

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History

Latin

During Remove, the girls study aspects of Medieval History. They will also begin to develop the evidence and writing skills which form the basis for subsequent work in the subject.

Remove girls study Latin starting from the simplest elements of the language. Many girls have their first experience with the language only at this point. For others who have studied some Latin previously, this is an opportunity to strengthen their command of the fundamentals.

Autumn Term • •

The Norman Conquest William the Conqueror’s consolidation of control after Hastings (castle-building, Domesday Book, Feudalism)

We proceed slowly through the first year of Latin to allow all the girls the opportunity to grasp the fundamentals of grammar thoroughly. We go through basic concepts such as nouns and verbs, before delving into Latin cases and syntax. The additional challenge of learning an inflexed language can be daunting, and we pay special attention to helping the girls learn this grammar well.

Spring Term

• • • • • •

The power of the Church in medieval England Development of Church architecture and Cathedral building Thomas Becket and Henry II The Crusades Monasteries King John and Magna Carta

During the first year, we place special stress on the importance of grammar and vocabulary. We try to link grammar to logic and show the girls the relevance of Latin vocabulary to English vocabulary through attention to word derivations.

Summer Term

• • • •

Life for medieval peasants Medieval towns The Black Death The Peasants’ Revolt

The textbook used is: Invasion, Plague and Murder; Britain 1066-1558 by Aaron Wilkes.

We also spend time exploring Roman culture and mythology, reading about the mythical origins of the Trojan War as well as Aeneas’ adventures after the fall of Troy. We typically organize an outing to explore the Classical world.

Girls will find it useful to have high-lighters, scissors and glue stick in their pencil cases for many of the class activities.

The textbook used is: Latin to GCSE Part 1, Henry Cullen and John Taylor, (Bloomsbury Academic, 2016).

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Mathematics In Remove, girls encounter a wide range of topics designed to build on their previous knowledge, introduce new concepts and stretch and challenge them to create inquisitive Mathematicians.

• • • •

There was a time where content and knowledge was the most important part in Mathematics. However, at Queen’s Gate School we realise that developing skills and academic agility is about a lot more than that. We recognise that risk taking is a big part of developing skills alongside creativity and even sometimes failure, to allow girls to identify how to learn from their experiences.

• • •

The textbook used is: Essential Maths 7C by David Rayner and Michael White, published by Elmwood Press. Equipment - Girls will need a ruler and Scientific Calculator; we recommend the Casio fx-85GT X. They will also be expected to have a pair of scissors and glue in every lesson.

The Mathematics Department aims to inspire the girls whom we teach, regardless of their types of intelligences. Genuine innovation and progress in a holistic education should move towards bringing different types of intelligences together, developing creativity, lateral thinking, resilience, problem solving, independence and courage.

Mathematics • Music • Physics

Averages and range Pie Charts Converting between metric units Conversion graphs for metric/imperial and other real-life situations Reading scales Puzzles Problem Solving

IT Provision - Written homework tasks are supplemented with homework task set on MyIMaths ( Internet site). On MyIMaths, pupils may re-do a tasks as many times as they like in a set time (30 minutes) in order to achieve the best possible score. Each time they re-do the task it creates new questions at the same level. Feedback is instant and teachers, parents and the pupils can monitor their performance. Interactive whiteboards are used in every classroom. Revision and extra resources are put on MyQG, an online database which is accessible for both pupils and parents.

Our schemes of work are built on the framework of the National Curriculum as we aim to develop girls’ problem solving and reasoning skills at every opportunity. In Remove, the syllabus includes: • Properties of numbers • Pascal’s triangle • Sequences • HCF and LCM • Multiplication and division • Perimeter and area • BIDMAS • Fractions • Angles • Place value • Decimals • Coordinates • Algebra • Simple formulae, simplify, substitute (including negative values) • Balance puzzles • Expanding a single bracket • Solving equations • Parallel/ perpendicular lines • Lines of symmetry • Rotational symmetry • Percentages

Mathematics Club and Clinic - The ‘Maths Club’ is for the most able mathematicians in Remove and LIV. They prepare to compete in the UK Maths Team Challenge which is usually held towards the end of March. It provides an opportunity for extension and enjoyment of Mathematics, as well as the experience of doing mathematics as part of a team. The Clinic is an opportunity to seek extra help outside the classroom from a peer or teacher; whilst most girls come voluntarily, they may be directed by their teacher for a little additional help.

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Music

• Fuels • Fossil fuels • The advantages and disadvantages of renewable alternatives e.g. solar, wind, hydroelectric • Design and build a model wind turbine

In the first year the girls study two units each term.

Autumn Term

Unit 1 - Introduction to Music The use of language to describe the Elements of Music. Concepts of Pitch, Duration, Dynamics, Articulation, Tempo, Texture, Timbre and Silence.

Autumn and Spring Terms Electricity: • Circuit symbols • How electric circuits work • Parallel and series circuits • What resistance is and its link with heating effects • Measuring current in series and parallel circuits • Cells and Batteries as energy stores • Parallel circuits used for Christmas tree lights and house lights • Wiring a plug • Fuses

Unit 2 - Rhythmic Notation Learning rhythmic notation, composing and performing using body and instrumental percussion instruments.

Spring Term

Unit 3 - Pitch Notation and Keyboard Skills Learning how to read notes written on the treble clef and then using this skill to perform different melodies and ensemble pieces on keyboards. Unit 4 - Remove Showcase Pupils add the finishing touches to preparing solo performances and songs for the annual Remove Showcase.

Spring and Summer Terms

Forces and Their Effects: • Types of force and effects – change in shape, direction and speed • What is weight and how is it different to mass? • Using a Newton meter • Effects of balanced forces (stationary object or constant speed) • Density • Measure density of regular blocks and liquids • Explain why things float in terms of density • Investigation to see how the extension of a spring and rubber band relate to force applied • Friction – when it’s useful and when it’s a nuisance • Stopping distance

Summer Term

Unit 5 - The Orchestra Exploring the world of orchestral music, the families of instruments and the timbres of individual members of the orchestral groups. A visit to hear a major orchestra is part of this year’s musical experience. Unit 6 - Music Technology Pupils will explore how technology has shaped music and how it is used today. Using Garageband, pupils will be able to record and produce music in a variety of different styles, using the technology to change and manipulate the sounds.

Summer Term

Solar System and Beyond: • How we see the sun and moon • Phases of the moon • Eclipses • What the solar system consists of • Order of planets • Gravity • Is there life on Mars? • What is beyond the solar system?

Physics Autumn Term

Energy and Fuels: • Safety in the Laboratory • Fair testing • Scatter graphs with lines of best fit

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Design and Technology

Religious Studies

In Design and Technology girls are taught problem solving skills that solve real-world problems. The design process consists of these three main stages:

In Remove, girls explore the key concepts, beliefs and practices of Christianity and the ways in which these affect people’s lives, attitudes and behaviour. Christianity is presented as a world religion. Active learning methods are used to enable girls to interact with the beliefs, and examine and explore them in relation to their own views.

• identifying the needs and requirements of a user group a need • generating solutions to meet the identified needs • evaluating the success of their design solutions

The content includes: • Differences between belief and knowledge. • Consideration of their own beliefs and reasons for having them. • Views of God from major world religions. • Reasons for and against having faith and religious belief. • The authenticity of the accounts of Jesus in the Bible. • Worldview beliefs of Jesus. • Jesus’ birth, life, death and resurrection. • The Bible – types of writing, books, how to use, references and why it is important to Christians. • Parables – what are they, examples and explanations of their meaning. • Miracles – what are they, examples, do they provide proof of God’s existence. • The death and resurrection of Jesus. • Connections between the three Abrahamic faiths of Islam, Judaism and Christianity. • To look at stories from the Torah and Bible and analyse them identifying key messages and teachings.

Over KS3 the projects are designed to cover different material areas and focus on different design considerations. This equips them with a broad range of skills and knowledge with which to generate effective design solutions.

Design & Technology • Religious Studies

Autumn Term

CAD/CAM Pencil Topper • Designing and sketch model making • 3D CAD modelling using Tinkercad • 3D printing November Examination Focus: workshop health and safety, plastics theory, drawing

Spring Term

ELECTRONICS Torch • Electrical components and circuit design • Model making

Spring/Summer Term

The texts used are: The Good News Bible.

Packaging • Development nets • Papers and boards theory • Producing packaging using Adobe Illustrator School Summer Examinations Focus: electronics, papers and boards, packaging

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