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- Leading & Developing an all-through school | The Westgate School
Explore strategies for leading and growing successful all-through schools. Leading & Developing an all-through school Go Go Leading & Developing an all-through school Lead Professionals: Mrs F Dean (Executive Headteacher) and Mrs. J Edwards (Head of School) We’ve had the privilege of developing Hampshire’s first, all-through school with our first cohort of pupils from the primary phase moving into Year 7 back in 2021. Initially as a standalone secondary school, The Westgate School has for just over a decade, taken the journey to being a school from EYFS to Year 11, with 25% of pupils in our secondary phase having been to the school’s primary phase. Over time we have been delighted to share our journey with professionals from Multi-Academy Trusts and councils who are exploring the opportunities offered through this model. We would be delighted to invite to our school anyone interested in pursuing this opportunity, offering you a tour as well as a candid review of the opportunities and the challenges! Should be embarking on this journey, we would be happy to provide continued support which extends beyond the Executive Headteacher and Head of School, to include colleagues from across our setting and governors, providing a full range of experiences and views For more information, use the contact form: Contact and sele ct Collaborative Working & Partnerships citing All-Through. Go Collaborative Working & partnerships Next page Home Our School Headteacher's Welcome Ofsted Safeguarding Statutory Information | SEND Policies Admissions Governance Pupil Premium | Catch-up Statement Exam Results Vacancies School News House System Calendar & Open Events Collaborative Working & Partnerships Contact
- Physical Education
Physical Education To inspire pupils to discover a lifelong love of sport and exercise Go Go Our PE curriculum intends to allow pupils to: Experience as many sports as possible to find those which will develop a lifelong love of sport. Have the opportunity to participate within our school community in a wide range of extracurricular activities. Develop the skills and aptitudes needed to excel. Why Learn PE? A high-quality physical education curriculum inspires all pupils to succeed and excel in competitive sport and other physically demanding activities. It will provide opportunities for pupils to become physically confident in a way which supports their health and fitness. Opportunities to compete in sport and other activities build character and help to embed values such as fairness and respect. . EYFS | KS1 Content KS2 Content Year 7 & 8 Content Year 9 Content Year 10 & 11 Content PE is taught as a discrete subject from Year R. We provide additional teaching resources form Year 3 transitioning into specialist PE provision using our full facilities from Year 4. Key stage 1 course content Pupils will develop fundamental movement skills, become increasingly competent and confident and access a broad range of opportunities to extend their agility, balance and coordination, individually and with others. They will learn to engage in competitive and co-operative physical activities, in a range of increasingly challenging situations. Pupils will be taught to: Master basic movements including running, jumping, throwing and catching, as well as developing balance, agility and co-ordination, and begin to apply these in a range of activities. Participate in team games, developing simple tactics for attacking and defending. Perform dances using simple movement patterns. PE is taught as a discrete subject from Year R. We provide additional teaching resources form Year 3 transitioning into specialist PE provision using our full facilities from Year 4. Key stage 2 course content Pupils should continue to apply and develop a broader range of skills, learning how to use them in different ways and to link them to make actions and sequences of movement. They will be supported in the joy of communicating, collaborating and competing with each other. They will develop an understanding of how to improve in different physical activities and sports and learn how to evaluate and recognise their own success. Pupils will be taught to: Use running, jumping, throwing and catching in isolation and in combination. Play competitive games, modified where appropriate [for example, badminton, basketball, cricket, football, hockey, netball, rounders and tennis], and apply basic principles suitable for attacking and defending. Develop flexibility, strength, technique, control and balance through athletics and gymnastics. Perform dances using a range of movement patterns. Take part in outdoor and adventurous activity challenges both individually and within a team. Compare their performances with previous ones and demonstrate improvement to achieve their personal best. Swimming and water safety We provide swimming instruction in key stage 2. In particular, we will ensure our pupil are taught to: Swim competently, confidently and proficiently over a distance of at least 25 metres. Use a range of strokes effectively (for example, front crawl, backstroke and breaststroke). Perform safe self-rescue in different water-based situations. Course content: Currently the sports covered are: Athletics Basketball Badminton Dance Football Gymnastics Health Related Exercise Orienteering Rugby Netball Table tennis Tennis Striking/fielding Course skills In both Year 7 & 8, pupils will work across a carousel of sports, including a variety of team sports, individual sports, racket sports, gymnastics, dance, and problem-solving activities. Pupils will develop individual skills, team tactics and performances across these activities. They will learn how to exercise safely and understand the benefits of leading a healthy lifestyle. Extra-curricular learning: Pupils are encouraged to attend one of the many extracurricular sports clubs as part of developing their skills. There are a wide range of sports covered to allow pupils to select the one that suits them. This page is being updated Overview of the Course: Physical Education is a mixture of practical (40%) and theory work (60%). Pupils will learn how the body works, the socio-cultural influences on sport, and further develop their physical competence in a range of competitive sports. There is a need for individuals to play and understand three sports at a reasonable level. This includes one solo sport and one team sport. Pupils should really be at a competitive level in sports, either inside and outside of school, if they choose GCSE PE. To be able to achieve a high grade at GCSE PE pupils should: Be competent in more than one sport. Regularly participate in competitive sport clubs outside of school. Regularly attend extra-curricular sports clubs within school. Always have brought PE kit to lessons. The three areas of the curriculum are as follows: Understand how the body works and how it impacts on health, fitness and performance in physical activity and sport. Understand socio-cultural influences on sport and physical well-being. Develop practical performance in physical activity and sport. Course content: Theory Content: (60%) Throughout the three years, pupils will cover the following topics: Applied anatomy and physiology Movement analysis Physical training Use of data Sports Psychology Socio-Cultural factors Health, Fitness and well-being Assessment is through two 1 ¼ hr exams, sat in Year 11. Paper 1: Applied anatomy and physiology. Paper 2: Socio-Cultural influences and well-being in physical activity and sport. Practical Content: (40%) The practical requirement of GCSE PE is based upon competence in competitive sports. It will focus on physical training, developing knowledge and understanding the principles of training and different training methods in order to carry out, monitor and evaluate personal exercise programmes. Pupils will also carry out some development of practical sports, working on increasing their skills and techniques in progressive drills, and also their ability to put them into game or performance situations on activities from the list of team and individual sports on the syllabus. Assessment: Assessment in the practical element is ongoing. Pupils are assessed at their competence in a number of competitive sports (which can be sports that are done out of school – speak to the PE department about the list of current sports on the syllabus). Their final grade takes their highest 3 grades; 1 must be a team sport, 1 must be an individual sport, and the final one can be team or individual, and their analysis of performance in one of those sports. For each activity covered, pupils will be marked out of 25 on practical competence (as a guide, a district level player in a sport would be attaining 25). Pupils will be expected to participate in every practical lesson, and improve individual skills and tactics for that sport. The sports covered within curriculum time will reflect their needs and strengths of the class. Home Learning: Weekly Home Learning will be set in a range of formats: research, finishing off work done in lessons, practising the skills learned in lessons. Pupils are also expected to participate in extra-curricular sports activities to develop their practical skills. Exam Board: AQA – 8582 Our Curriculum Curriculum Intent Options Careers Employers Curriculum Subjects Art | Fine Art Computing | Computer Science English Design Technology Drama Food Preparation & Nutrition French Geography German History Latin Maths Media Studies Music Personal Development Photography Physical Education Religious Education Science Sculpture Spanish The Wellbeing Curriculum
- German
German Becoming an active communicator in the world's global village Go Go Our Languages Curriculum intends to: Broaden pupils' horizons by developing a passion for languages and cultures and recognise the additional career opportunities open to people who speak an additional language. Ensure that every pupil is encouraged and supported to study a language for GCSE. Encourage a growth mind-set in pupils to learning a new language and develop the confidence to communicate. Overview of the Course: The learning of a language encourages respect for other people; it fosters an understanding of the interrelation of language and human nature. Studying any foreign language will broaden minds and give pupils a better insight into the world around us. It will encourage empathy as an individual. It demonstrates openness to society and an ability to communicate with others on all levels. The learning of a language supports an appreciation of cultural diversity. Pupils will continue to study the language they have learnt at Westgate since Year 7. German is offered as a GCSE starting in Year 9 (dependant on pupil numbers). Several trips run throughout the year to complement the learning of languages and broaden pupils' cultural experiences. EYFS | KS1 Content KS2 Content Year 7 & 8 Content Year 9 Content Year 10 & 11 Content German is not taught within our school day as we focus on Spanish. German can be learnt as an additional subject in KS3. German is not taught within our school day as we focus on Spanish. German can be learnt as an additional subject in KS3. Overview of the Course: German is not offered to pupils in Year 7, but we do make this a choice for studying in Year 9 as part of our deepening and broadening the curriculum structures - dependent on uptake. We will introduce pupils to the German language through studying the culture, writing, speaking and listening of the language and people. We will consider 3 main themes: Identity and Culture. Localm national, international and global areas of interest. Current and future study and employment. Assessments: GCSE German has a Foundation Tier (grades 1–5) and a Higher Tier (grades 4–9). Students must take all four question papers at the same tier. All question papers must be taken in the same series. Paper 1: Listening - Understanding and responding to different types of spoken language Pupils are expected to be able to: Demonstrate general and specific understanding of different types of spoken language. Follow and understand clear standard speech using familiar language across a range of specified contexts. Identify the overall message, key points, details and opinions in a variety of short and longer spoken passages, involving some more complex language, recognising the relationship between past, present and future events. Deduce meaning from a variety of short and longer spoken texts, involving some complex language and more abstract material, including short narratives and authentic material addressing a wide range of relevant contemporary and cultural themes. Recognise and respond to key information, important themes and ideas in more extended spoken text, including authentic sources, adapted and abridged, as appropriate, by being able to answer questions, extract information, evaluate and draw conclusions. Paper 2: Speaking - Communicating and interacting effectively in speech for a variety of purposes Pupils are expected to be able to: Communicate and interact effectively in speech for a variety of purposes across a range of specified contexts. Take part in a short conversation, asking and answering questions, and exchanging opinions. Convey information and narrate events coherently and confidently, using and adapting language for new purposes. Speak spontaneously, responding to unexpected questions, points of view or situations, sustaining communication by using rephrasing or repair strategies, as appropriate. Initiate and develop conversations and discussion, producing extended sequences of speech. Make appropriate and accurate use of a variety of vocabulary and grammatical structures, including some more complex forms, with reference to past, present and future events. Make creative and more complex use of the language, as appropriate, to express and justify their own thoughts and points of view. Use accurate pronunciation and intonation such as to be understood by a native speaker. Paper 3: Reading - Understanding and responding to different types of written language Pupils are expected to be able to: Understand and respond to different types of written language. Understand general and specific details within texts using high frequency familiar language across a range of contexts. Identify the overall message, key points, details and opinions in a variety of short and longer written passages, involving some more complex language, recognising the relationship between past, present and future events. Deduce meaning from a variety of short and longer written texts from a range of specified contexts, including authentic sources involving some complex language and unfamiliar material, as well as short narratives and authentic material addressing a wide range of relevant contemporary and cultural themes. Recognise and respond to key information, important themes and ideas in more extended written text and authentic sources, including some extracts from relevant abridged or adapted literary texts. Demonstrate understanding by being able to scan for particular information, organise and present relevant details, draw inferences in context and recognise implicit meaning where appropriate. Translate a short passage from German into English. Paper 4: Writing - Communicating effectively in writing for a variety of purposes Pupils are expected to be able to: Communicate effectively in writing for a variety of purposes across a range of specified contexts. Write short texts, using simple sentences and familiar language accurately to convey meaning and exchange information. Produce clear and coherent text of extended length to present facts and express ideas and opinions appropriately for different purposes and in different settings Make accurate use of a variety of vocabulary and grammatical structures, including some more complex forms, to describe and narrate with reference to past, present and future events. Manipulate the language, using and adapting a variety of structures and vocabulary with increasing accuracy and fluency for new purposes, including using appropriate style and register. Make independent, creative and more complex use of the language, as appropriate, to note down key points, express and justify individual thoughts and points of view, in order to interest, inform or convince. Translate sentences and short texts from English into German to convey key messages accurately and to apply grammatical knowledge of language and structures in context. Exam Board: AQA 8668 Our Curriculum Curriculum Intent Options Careers Employers Curriculum Subjects Art | Fine Art Computing | Computer Science English Design Technology Drama Food Preparation & Nutrition French Geography German History Latin Maths Media Studies Music Personal Development Photography Physical Education Religious Education Science Sculpture Spanish The Wellbeing Curriculum
- Astronomy
Astronomy Go Go Course intent Most people are fascinated by the night sky and are interested in stories about our continuing exploration of our Solar System and Universe. The course will enable pupils to understand our position in the Universe, the movements of planets and stars, the cycles in the night and daytime sky, and the way in which we use technology to observe and interact with space. The pupils will have the opportunity to use astronomical maps, pinhole cameras to take images, complete solar observations as well as learning telescopic techniques. EYFS | KS1 Content KS2 Content Year 7 & 8 Content Year 9 Content Year 10 & 11 Content Astronomy is not specifically taught within EYFS/KS1 Astronomy is not specifically taught within KS2 Astronomy is not specifically taught within KS3 Astronomy is not specifically taught within KS3 Curriculum overview and assessment: Paper 1: Naked Eye Astronomy 50% of the qualification 100 marks Topic 1 – Planet Earth Topic 2 – The lunar disc Topic 3 – The Earth-Moon-Sun system Topic 4 – Time and the Earth-Moon-Sun cycles Topic 5 – Solar System observation Topic 6 – Celestial observation Topic 7 – Early models of the Solar System Topic 8 – Planetary motion and gravity Paper 2: Telescopic Astronomy 50% of the qualification 100 marks Topic 9 – Exploring the Moon Topic 10 – Solar astronomy Topic 11 – Exploring the Solar System Topic 12 – Formation of planetary systems Topic 13 – Exploring starlight Topic 14 – Stellar evolution Topic 15 – Our place in the Galaxy Topic 16 - Cosmology The assessments will be a mixture of different question styles, including multiple-choice questions, short-answer questions, calculations, graphical and extended-open-response questions. Observational skills Throughout their study of the qualification, pupils should develop their observational skills. Pupils must undertake at least one aided and one unaided observation. Pupils will need to use their knowledge and understanding of observational techniques and procedures in the written assessments. How will the course run? GCSE Astronomy is a full GCSE that will be additional to any options that your child will already be taking. The course will be taught twice a week after school between 3-4pm by the Science Department during the course of year 10 and 11. The course will run if there is sufficient interest by the pupils. There may also be a small cost involved to cover the cost of equipment needed and the exam entries. This course is ideal for those pupils who have an innate love of all things space and are interested in our place in the Universe. Due to the mathematical aspect of the course, it would be advised that pupils that are aiming for at least a grade 6/ 7 in GCSE Maths. We will be following the Edexcel Pearson Specification . Our Curriculum Curriculum Intent Options Careers Employers Curriculum Subjects Art | Fine Art Computing | Computer Science English Design Technology Drama Food Preparation & Nutrition French Geography German History Latin Maths Media Studies Music Personal Development Photography Physical Education Religious Education Science Sculpture Spanish The Wellbeing Curriculum
- Careers Education & Guidance
Explore careers education and guidance at Westgate School, helping pupils plan their future with advice, resources, and support for life beyond school. Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance The best way to predict the future is to create it Careers Education & Guidance Our Careers Education Intent To excite and motivate pupils’ curiosity about different careers and industries; To inspire pupils’ aspirations in order to unlock their potential and develop their employability skills; To empower pupils to challenge stereotyping and discrimination and other barriers to diversity and equality in further education and careers. Careers Lead: Mr Hurley, Assistant Headteacher Contact Information, select the 'careers option' via our contact form on the contact page. Statutory Requirements & Provider Access Policy The careers provision at The Westgate School is in line with the statutory guidance developed by the Department of Education, which refers to Section 42A and 45A of the Education Act 1997: as a school we provide independent careers guidance from Year 7 to Year 11. This guidance is impartial and gives information on a range of pathways and post-16 education providers, including university options, apprenticeships and further education. It is adapted to meet the needs and interests of the individual pupils. Provider Access Legislation Statement Information for parents/carers: Curriculum Overview Post 16 Information Evening presentation Careers Education Policy - Located on our policy page Partners in Learning: Apprenticeships (for Year 9 and 10) Work Experience Information Sheet Our Careers Education Intent is evaluated annually against the Gatsby Benchmarks, and our documents and policies are evaluated and updated annually. Our Careers Education Impact: Our most recent Gatsby Benchmark evaluation NEET Data: average 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 View Survey 2023 View Survey 2024 View Survey 2025 Hampshire RPA Percentage 94.7% 96.0% 96.0% 94.0% 94.9% 94.3% 94.5% 99.2% 92.9% 92.8% TBA Westgate cohort 206 231 233 240 232 239 239 237 246 RPA met 239 227 231 237 236 241 Westgate RPA %age 98.4% 97.6% 100.0% 96.9% 99.6% 97.8% 96.7% 99.2% 99.6% 98.0% 99.2% Sixth Form College/School 81.1% 85.7% 87.1% 86.7% 201 206 205 215 208 FE College 16.5% 13.9% 9.4% 11.3% 22 25 29 17 26 Other Ed inc. Traineeship 0.0% 0.4% 0.4% 1,7% 0 0 0 0 0 Information for pupils: We hope you like the look of our Careers programme for this year and value the range of experiences which have been planned to support you as you explore and discover a variety of careers. Useful Links Useful information Local colleges Andover College Barton Peveril BCOT Eastleigh College Peter Symonds College Sparsholt College Careers guidance and support Your step-by-step guide to applying for an apprenticeship A Guide to Career Options 2023 / 2024 | Rate My Apprenticeship Get the Jump: explore your education and training choices | National Careers Service Apprenticeship.org T Levels Open Events Encounters with Further and Higher Education Andover College To apply to Andover College visit the Andover College website or use Apply - Full Time and Part Time courses - Andover College | Hampshire Sparsholt College To apply to Sparsholt College visit the Sparsholt website or use How to Apply - Sparsholt College and University Centre Sparsholt. Our Digital Handout which can be used in school or sent digitally to Year 11s and their parents/carers. Information can be accessed by clicking on anything of interest. The Digital Handout includes links to a presentation with voiceover and other useful online information. Digital Handout BCOT – Basingstoke College of Technology Basingstoke College of Technology (bcot.ac.uk) Peter Symonds College Peter Symonds College / Open Evenings Winchester College 6th Form Winchester College | Sixth Form Richard Taunton Sixth Form College Home - Richard Taunton Sixth Form College Eastleigh College Eastleigh.ac.uk The Southampton Engineering Training Association (SETA) Our Curriculum Curriculum Intent Options Careers Employers Curriculum Subjects Art | Fine Art Computing | Computer Science English Design Technology Drama Food Preparation & Nutrition French Geography German History Latin Maths Media Studies Music Personal Development Photography Physical Education Religious Education Science Sculpture Spanish The Wellbeing Curriculum
- Science
Science Through discovery and collaboration, we flourish Go Go Our Science curriculum intends to: Make critical thinking and independence the foundation of learning and inspire a love of learning, self- discovery, and collaboration in all our pupils. Develop pupils’ deep understanding of the world around them and their role in creating an environmentally sustainable future for our planet. Enable pupils to make safe and healthy choices. Why Learn Science? Science provides the foundations for understanding the world through the specific disciplines of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. All pupils are taught essential aspects of the knowledge, methods, processes and uses of Science. Through building up a body of key foundational knowledge and concepts, pupils are encouraged to recognise the power of rational explanation and develop a sense of excitement and curiosity about natural phenomena. They develop an understanding of how science can be used to explain what is occurring, predict how things will behave, and analyse causes. There is a significant overlap with other subjects, such as Design & Technology, Mathematics, Geography, Physical Education and Food, Preparation & Nutrition and so cross-curricular links are regularly explored within lessons. EYFS | KS1 Content KS2 Content Year 7 & 8 Content Year 9 Content Year 10 & 11 Content Science is planned around half-termly topics, the curriculum provides pupils with the opportunity to learn subject-specific knowledge and understanding, explore links across subject areas and practise their writing. As pupils progress through the Lower School they will receive a breadth of subject specialist teaching using specialist facilities in Science - including use of our designated KS2 Science laboratory. Science is planned around half-termly topics, the curriculum provides pupils with the opportunity to learn subject-specific knowledge and understanding, explore links across subject areas and practise their writing. As pupils progress through the Lower School they will receive a breadth of subject specialist teaching using specialist facilities in Science - including use of our designated KS2 Science laboratory. Key Stage 3 Science meets the expectations of the National Curriculum and beyond, both with respect to knowledge and skill development, providing a varied and balanced curriculum. Pupils study aspects of Biology, Chemistry and Physics, merged into discrete, contextualised topics which support pupils in understanding how Science is integral to all aspects of life and the world around us. Assessment: Pupils will be assessed on the development of their scientific skills by in class assessments and will be assessed on their scientific knowledge through end of topic tests. In addition to this, pupils will undertake three assessment investigations throughout the year. The scientific skills being developed are: planning and evaluating, data analysis, practical skills, explanations, scientific numeracy, and scientific literacy. There will also be regular assessment for learning and feedback provided to pupils through the marking of exercise books. Pupils will start the GCSE course at the beginning of the year. Throughout the year, classes will rotate through a series of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics topics. Each topic will focus on developing the knowledge and skills required to meet the three assessment objectives mentioned above. The topics are not equal in length, but the rotation of topics has been split into two halves. Year 9 pupils will cover the following topics over the year: Biology Cell structure and transport Cell division Organisation and the digestive system. Organisation in animals and plants Communicable diseases Chemistry Atomic structure The periodic table Structure and bonding Chemical changes Physics Conservation and dissipation of energy Energy transfer by heating Energy resources Year 10 pupils will cover the following topics from the beginning of the year to end of spring term: Biology Communicable diseases Preventing and treating disease Non-communicable diseases Photosynthesis Respiration The human nervous system Organising an ecosystem Chemistry Chemical calculations Electrolysis Energy changes in reactions Crude oil and fuels Physics Electric circuits Electricity in the home Molecules and matter Radioactivity Forces in balance Motion After Easter holidays, Year 10 pupils will either follow the Combined Science course (double ) or the separate Sciences (triple). All pupils will still cover topics in Biology, Chemistry, & Physics on a rotational basis, however separate Science pupils will accelerate through the curriculum to cover the extra content required. Year 10 curriculum will cover the following topics in the summer term: Combined Science (Double) Biology Hormonal coordination Reproduction Variation and evolution Chemistry Chemical analysis Physics Force and motion Separate Science Biology Hormonal coordination Homeostasis in action Chemistry Rates and equilibrium Organic Reactions Physics Force and motion Year 11 curriculum will cover the following topics in the autumn term: Combined Science (Double) Biology Variation, natural selection and evolution Biodiversity and ecosystems Organisms in their environment Competition Pollution Chemistry Rates of reaction The Earth’s atmosphere The Earth’s resources Physics Wave Properties Electromagnetic spectrum Magnetic fields & electromagnetism Separate Science Biology Reproduction Variation, Natural selection and evolution Theories of evolution and speciation Chemistry Titrations Gas laws Chemical analysis The Earth’s atmosphere Physics Forces and motion Pressure Wave properties Electromagnetic spectrum During the Spring and Summer term of Year 11, pupils will either continue studying for the separate Sciences or begin consolidating prior learning in preparation for the Combined Science trilogy course. Separate Science Pupils who continue with the separate Sciences route will study the following topics in the Spring term. Biology Biodiversity and ecosystems Organisms in their environment Competition Pollution Chemistry Properties of materials Physics Properties of light Magnetic fields & electromagnetism Space Home Learning: 1 or 2 pieces per week, lasting between 45 minutes to 1 hour in total. Assessment: Throughout each year pupils will be assessed through a mixture of end of topic tests and in class assessments. In Year 10, pupils will undertake an internal exam in the Spring term in Biology, Chemistry, & Physics. In Year 11, pupils will undertake internal exams in Biology, Chemistry, & Physics, in both the Autumn term and Spring term, before undertaking their final exams in the Summer term. Irrespective of whether they study the combined Science trilogy or separate Sciences routes, they will sit six exams; two exams each in Biology, Chemistry, & Physics. Combined Science trilogy exams have a duration of 1 hour 15 minutes each, and the separate Science exams each last 1 hour and 45 minutes. Exam Board: AQA Combined Science trilogy 8464 Biology 8461 Chemistry 8462 Physics 8463 Our Curriculum Curriculum Intent Options Careers Employers Curriculum Subjects Art | Fine Art Computing | Computer Science English Design Technology Drama Food Preparation & Nutrition French Geography German History Latin Maths Media Studies Music Personal Development Photography Physical Education Religious Education Science Sculpture Spanish The Wellbeing Curriculum
- School Self-Evaluation Activities | The Westgate School
Improve outcomes with our school self-evaluation activities and expert-led support. School Self-Evaluation Activities Go Go School Self-Evaluation Activities Lead Professional: Mrs. J Edwards (Head of School) Based on the principles of a self-improving system, school peer-review activities enable leaders and colleagues to critically assess their provision, identify strengths, and pinpoint areas for development. This reflective process is embedded in The Westgate School’s cycle of quality assurance and welcomes colleagues from other settings on a regular basis. As an open and experienced community of learning, we look forward to working alongside peers who bring different experiential learning and expertise to our setting. Extending our collaborative partnerships supports continuous improvement and sustainable progress where we can learn alongside experienced practitioners and leaders for the benefit of all learners. If you would like to join our programme of curriculum development, please use the contact form: Contact and sele ct Collaborative Working & Partnerships citing Peer Review. Go Collaborative Working & partnerships Next page Home Our School Headteacher's Welcome Ofsted Safeguarding Statutory Information | SEND Policies Admissions Governance Pupil Premium | Catch-up Statement Exam Results Vacancies School News House System Calendar & Open Events Collaborative Working & Partnerships Contact
- Senior School Council
The roles and responsibilities of The Westgate School Senior Council Senior School Council Article 12 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) says that children and young people should have a say in decisions that affect their lives. A school council can provide a meaningful way in which pupils can voice their opinions and have their views taken into account in decisions which impact upon them. Senior School Council structure This is a summit, made up of senior school representatives, including the Head Boy and Girl, Head All-Through and Senior Prefects. At the initial meeting each year, the group will establish its aims and the projects they want to work on. They might divide into mini groups to work on particular projects throughout the year. The summit meets the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) on a termly basis to provide an update on the activities of the focus groups, and to submit new proposals. The SLT also uses this as a forum in which to exchange ideas with pupils. Attributes of a member of the Senior School Council 1. Integrity Integrity means honesty and more. It refers to having strong internal guiding principles that one does not compromise. It means treating others as one would wish to be treated. Integrity promotes trust, and little can be achieved without it. 2. Communication Communication in the context of leadership refers to interpersonal communication between the individual and others, both in the team and across the school community. A good leader needs to be proficient in the communication that informs and must actively listen to others. 3. Relationship building Relationships develop good interpersonal and group communications. A leader who likes dealing with people and who can initiate and deepen relationships with others, has a great leadership advantage. This is a leader who can build a team and build up trust within it. 4. Persuasion The ability to influence others and cause them to act in a particular way is a highly important leadership skill. An ability to be persuasive is directly related to how much people trust you and how good your relationship skills and communication are. 5. Adaptability Adaptability and flexibility in not being bound by a plan are important success factors. A leader must move easily from one set of circumstances (the plan) to the next (if the plan is not going as expected) and take them all in their stride, even when the circumstances are unexpected. A good leader has to embrace change and see it as an opportunity. 6. Teamwork Teamwork is an important and often neglected part of being a prefect. Our community has a team of prefects who are part of and leaders within the school. No one person can do it all. That’s why a team, comprised of others with different skill sets, is essential. A leader must know how to build and nurture such a team. 7. Decision-making A leader must be able to wade through information, comprehend what is relevant, make a well-considered decision, and take action based on that decision. Once a team decision has been made, the individual must fully support the group in carrying out the actions related. Role of the Senior School Council · To maintain a positive and productive school atmosphere in which both pupils and colleagues feel included. · To lead aspects of the whole school life so that the community becomes stronger. · To ensure that duties for different teams are carried out correctly. · To work together as a Leadership team. · To mentor younger pupils to build in succession. Focus groups Focus Groups meet on a bi-weekly basis to decide on and organise projects which are relevant to their area of focus. Each group is overseen by a teacher. The pupil voice co-ordinator explains all the ideas that come from the pupils, and the teacher’s role is simply to facilitate. The focus groups are: 1. The Equality and Diversity Group The aim is to ensure everyone in the community is seen and understood. The group works with teachers and pupils to celebrate different cultures in school and raise awareness of the need to work together to make the school more inclusive. Examples of events are: • International Women’s Day • Black History Month • Men’s Mental Health 2. The Charity Group The group meets bi-weekly to fundraise for the charities which are chosen by the members. Some of the events are: • Bake sales, including the annual one for Macmillan • Selling poppies for The Royal British Legion • The annual Christmas appeal, which has a different charity annually 3. The Wellbeing Group In the Wellbeing Group, the aim is to create a positive and enjoyable working environment for both pupils and teachers and support them feeling comfortable and safe at school. As part of its role at the school, the group encourages pupils to join in with different activities. The group does this by organising a variety of events aimed at everyone. For example, in the summer the group runs rounders for our sport-orientated pupils, and for our arty pupils, the group runs colouring and drawing sessions. This helps to promote the school values – Endeavour and Excellence, Creativity and Character, Integrity and Empathy – and give pupils a chance to work with and get to know people across the whole school community. 4. The Eco Group The aim is to provide a place for pupils to put their ideas about the school environment forward and work together to discuss and implement improvements. Current members are trying to develop a garden that is centred around the use of compost to use food waste from food technology. They also have plans to continue making sustainably sourced technology projects for raising money and pushing for more recycling opportunities in classrooms. 5. The Digital Leadership Group This group is interested in the use of technology inside of school. The members help run technology for school events. They have a computing club and organise the annual Bebras competition. They also have other various responsibilities, such as editing drone footage. 6. The Sports & Extracurricular Captains The Sports Captains work closely with the House Leaders to provide interhouse competitions. The aim is to involve everyone in the community. For example, they have run the freshers’ fair in Autumn to encourage pupils to join a club by displaying the wide range of extracurricular activities the school offers. The members also oversee competitions, such as Sports Day in the Upper and Lower school. They are also required to volunteer by supporting the PE teachers. 7. The Library and Careers Group The Careers team is a key group within the school community. The members ensure that the library can provide a range of diverse and engaging resources, an IT access, and a space that is welcoming to the whole Westgate community. They also provide support for the smooth running of the library’s activities in the Upper and Lower Schools. They also support the school through careers events by practising interviews and helping in the careers’ fair. 8. The Curriculum Group The aim is to provide a place for pupils to share their ideas about the curriculum and work together to implement changes that benefit the whole school. The members are focused on how to best support different learning styles, enhance classroom learning experiences, and help others with their studies. They have also discussed the effectiveness of not using mobile phones in school. This approach helps to boost pupils’ concentration during lessons and ensures a fairer environment by reducing distractions and removing potential inequalities. 9. The Arts Leads The aim is to promote the Arts department within the school community. This involves leading extra-curricular activities and encouraging younger pupils to take part in activities and promote the arts. The members inspire creativity which would eventually lead to opportunities for pupils to showcase their talent during events. 10. The Lower School Leads · Tutoring lower school pupils · Setting up Y9 DofE reading · Working on School Council · Aiming to bridge activities/clubs more effectively between the Lower and Upper school 11. The House Captains The House Captains represent and lead the four houses at Westgate. They ensure that there is a wide range of activities and competitions so that everyone has a chance to represent their house and help win the coveted house cup. They work with the house leaders to support the Westgate community challenge to make sure that house members are able to gain their Bronze or Silver, or even Gold badges. They celebrate this success with assemblies. 12. The PSA and Prom Committee The Senior Council representatives for Prom Committee help plan the Year 11 Prom. This includes orchestrating fundraising events and being involved in all the other aspects such as the yearbook. They also support the PSA (Parent and Staff Association). They ensure that the school and the parents work together to raise money for school projects. They suggest projects through speaking with other groups and organise pupil involvement. 13. The Language Lead The aim is to support the MFL Department and incorporate languages into the wider Westgate community. They work with the MFL teachers to set up and run clubs which encourage the younger years to excel in their classes. They also often work with the primary phase leaders and visit the lower school to help the pupils to enjoy learning languages from a young age. 14. The Media Lead The aim is to work with the school’s HR department and promote the school website and the social media. This may include taking photos and reporting on recent school events, helping in The Gate to showcase the school to parents or job applicants, and sharing school news with fellow pupils. 15. The Peer Supporters The peer supporter program is designed to help younger pupils feel more comfortable and happier at school. The main aim of the peer supporter lead is to work with the year 10s who have applied for this role, match them with a year 7 buddy and make sure everything runs smoothly. Home Parents & Pupils School Teaching Hours Exam Information Edulink PSA Pupil Portal School Uniform Authorised Absence Request Medicines & Treatment Consent Form Senior School Council Parent Information
- Photography
Photography Art is not what you see but what you make others see Go Go Our Photography curriculum intends to: Develop intuition, reasoning, imagination and dexterity into unique forms of expression and communication. Promote self-esteem, while teaching us to respect each other and show empathy for each other's individual identities. Give space to think openly and to have confidence in our own opinions on life and the world around us. Encourage a culture of questioners rather than a culture of responders. Course content: Photography sits within the Art Department and is a course we offer from Year 9 onwards. During the course of Year 9 pupils will explore this new subject area and build the foundation skills that are required for the GCSE course, which will begin in Year 10. When going into Year 10 we do not recommend that pupils take 2 or more of the Arts as the demands on your time will be substantial. Pupils often spend many additional hours at our after school club or at home working on their Arts projects and it is hard to give enough time if you are trying to build two portfolios. Photography looks to explore: The ability to explore formal elements of visual language; line, form, colour, tone, pattern, texture, in the context of lens-based and light-based media. Investigating different ways of working as appropriate to their chosen area (s) of learning. Responding to an issue, theme, concept or idea, or working to a design brief. Showing in their work the use of viewpoint, composition, focus control, movement and narrative. Using appropriate techniques, technologies and equipment for recording images and lighting subjects. Showing an understanding of the manipulation and production qualities of still and moving images. Knowledge and Understanding: Pupils will gain knowledge and understanding of: How ideas, feelings and meanings are conveyed and interpreted in images, artefacts and products. Historical and contemporary developments and different styles and genres. How images, artefacts and products relate to social, historical, vocational and cultural contexts. A variety of approaches, methods and intentions of contemporary and historical artists, craftspeople and designers from different cultures and their contribution to continuity and change in society. A working vocabulary and knowledge of specialist terms relevant to their chosen area(s) of learning. Still Life photography, (working from natural or manufactured objects). Documentary photography, photo journalism, narrative photography, reportage. Photography involving a moving image, (television, film and animation). New media practice such as computer manipulated photography and photographic projections. EYFS | KS1 Content KS2 Content Year 7 & 8 Content Year 9 Content Year 10 & 11 Content Photography is not a stand-alone subject at EYFS, KS1 or KS2 but we introduce elements of the discipline within our Arts curriculum. Photography is not a stand-alone subject at EYFS, KS1 or KS2 but we introduce elements of the discipline within our Arts curriculum. Photography is not a stand-alone subject at KS3 but we introduce elements of the discipline within our Arts curriculum. Course content: During the course of Year 9 pupils will develop a working understanding of the form of photography, developing their grasp of how it has evolved over time as well as beginning to structure and edit photos to maximise their impact. We will cover aspects of: Still Life photography (working from natural or manufactured objects). Documentary photography, photo-journalism, narrative photography, reportage. Fine Art photography, photographic installation. Photography involving a moving image (television, film and animation). New media practice such as computer manipulated photography and photographic projections. Photography will enable pupils to consider how ideas, feelings and meanings are conveyed and interpreted in images. Pupils will develop a knowledge and understanding of photography and cameras. Course skills: Pupils will be expected to demonstrate skills and techniques in the context of their chosen area(s) of learning within Photography: The ability to explore formal elements of visual language; line, form, colour, tone, pattern, texture, in the context of lens-based and light-based media. Investigating different ways of working as appropriate to their chosen area (s) of learning. Responding to an issue, theme, concept or idea, or working to a design brief. Showing in their work the use of viewpoint, composition, focus control, depth of field, movement and narrative. Using appropriate techniques, technologies and equipment for recording images and lighting subjects within their chosen area. Showing an understanding of the developing, printing, manipulation and production qualities of still and moving images where appropriate. Understanding the value of working individually and as a member of a team within their chosen area. Knowledge and Understanding: Pupils will gain knowledge and understanding of: How ideas, feelings and meanings are conveyed and interpreted in images, artefacts and products in their chosen area(s) of Photography: lens-based and light-based media. Historical and contemporary developments and different styles and genres in relation to Photography. How images, artefacts and products relate to social, historical, vocational and cultural contexts. A variety of approaches, methods and intentions of contemporary and historical artists, craftspeople and designers from different cultures and their contribution to continuity and change in society within their chosen area(s) of learning in Photography. A working vocabulary and knowledge of specialist terms relevant to their chosen area(s) of learning within Photography. Home Learning: Pupils will be set 1 hour of Home Learning per week. Exam Board: AQA - 8206 Our Curriculum Curriculum Intent Options Careers Employers Curriculum Subjects Art | Fine Art Computing | Computer Science English Design Technology Drama Food Preparation & Nutrition French Geography German History Latin Maths Media Studies Music Personal Development Photography Physical Education Religious Education Science Sculpture Spanish The Wellbeing Curriculum
- Fencing
En garde! Join our School Fencing Club and dive into the exciting world of swordplay. Fencing Go Go Beyond the Classroom Clubs | Wraparound | Holiday Clubs Community Lettings Fencing Internal / External External Age Range Year 3 - 5 Contact jdsportscoaching@gmail.com En garde! Join this externally run Fencing Club and dive into the exciting world of swordplay. It’s a fantastic way to develop agility, strategy, and sportsmanship. Whether you’re a novice or have some experience, this club offers a supportive environment to learn and practice the art of fencing. Suit up, and let’s parry and thrust our way to fun and fitness! Go Wraparound | Clubs | Holiday Clubs Go
- Media Studies
Media Studies Casting a critical eye over the ever-changing influence of modern media Go Go Our Media curriculum intends to: Enable pupils to become critical and analytical readers of media texts. Enable pupils all-through to question the way the media represents individuals and groups, and its power to manipulate audiences. Enable pupils to create purposeful, effective media products. Why learn Media? Media plays a key role in modern society: each time we watch television, read a newspaper or access the internet, we are exposed to the power of the Media. We are also affected by Media that we do not necessarily choose to use. This is why this dynamic and exciting subject provides pupils with an excellent tool to navigate and analyse the world we live in. In addition to this, the core skills of analysis work to build on and support the work pupils undertake in English. EYFS | KS1 Content KS2 Content Year 7 & 8 Content Year 9 Content Year 10 & 11 Content Media is taught within the English syllabus in the Primary phase. It is taught from KS3 onwards as a discrete lesson objective then as an individual subject. Media is taught within the English syllabus in the Primary phase. It is taught from KS3 onwards as a discrete lesson objective, then as an individual subject. Course Content in Years 7 and 8 In Year 7 we look at various public figures considering how they are represented in the press and how they have become heroes of our time. We also link this with some image decoding and inference skills which start to build a bank of media terminology. In Year 8 we study advertising building on our prior knowledge of media terminology and looking at how the adverts persuade the audience to purchase products. Course Content in Year 9 Pupils learn about the theoretical frameworks (Media language, representation, Media industries and audiences) and discover how to apply them to Media texts. In addition, they learn practical skills such as how to use Photoshop and how to produce a Media product for a set brief. Course Content in Year 10-11 Pupils are required to explore Media language, representation, Media industries and audiences. They apply these theoretical frameworks to set texts from the exam board as well as unseen Media products. In addition, pupils develop practical skills and produce a practical production using editing software and original images. Assessment: The Media GCSE consists of two exams collectively worth 70% and a Practical Production, completed within school, worth 30%. Home Learning: Pupils are expected to complete Home Learning every week. Usually, this will take one hour. Home Learning will be set as a variety of tasks including finding and analysing examples of Media texts, researching texts, contexts and/or theories and preparing for practical work. Exam Board: Eduqas C680QS Our Curriculum Curriculum Intent Options Careers Employers Curriculum Subjects Art | Fine Art Computing | Computer Science English Design Technology Drama Food Preparation & Nutrition French Geography German History Latin Maths Media Studies Music Personal Development Photography Physical Education Religious Education Science Sculpture Spanish The Wellbeing Curriculum
- Latin
Latin Opening a dozen different doors to understanding the language of academic and the influence of the Roman Empire on modern European society Go Go At The Westgate School, our Latin Curriculum intends to: Enable pupils to understand the significant influence Roman culture had on European society and languages and especially English. Enable pupils to explore the etymology of the English language and its significant links to Latin. Broaden pupils' use of English academic vocabulary. Enable pupils to gain knowledge and understanding of the Roman world through reading and responding to its literature. Why learn Latin? Latin (within the English curriculum) provides a foundation in linguistic and cultural competence, enabling pupils to gain knowledge and understanding of the Roman world through reading and responding to its language and literature. In studying Latin we discover the roots of culture and language which shape Europe today. We analyse texts and stories in Latin to build knowledge and understanding of Latin vocabulary and grammar and we use sources in order to consider aspects of the fascinating and enthralling civilisation of the Roman world and culture. EYFS | KS1 Content KS2 Content Year 7 & 8 Content Year 9 Content Year 10 & 11 Content Latin is not taught within our school in the Primary phase. It is taught from KS3 onwards. Latin is not taught within our school in the Primary phase. It is taught from KS3 onwards. Latin does not exist as a discrete course in Key Stage 3. However, we are increasingly introducing aspects of Latin into our English structures. What and how will I learn? In Year 9 pupils will be introduced to the Latin language and learn key words and be able to link the etymology of the language to English and also other modern languages. This new vocabulary is taught in a range of engaging and exciting ways and pupils thoroughly enjoy making links between Latin and other languages they are studying. For example, pupils will be challenged through the translation work, while learning the structures of the language. Alongside learning the Latin language, we will also study key facets of the Roman Civilisation. This will include: Roman family life including the Paterfamilias; the role of women and children in ancient Rome; discussing the morality of slavery and arranged marriages. When discussing these aspects of Roman life, we will link the experiences of the past to our modern lives and reflect on their impact. How will this be assessed in GCSE? The GCSE examination in Year 11 will consist of 1 Language paper (50%), 1 Literature paper (30%) and 1 Roman Civilisation paper (20%). Exam Board: (Eduqas) – C990PB Our Curriculum Curriculum Intent Options Careers Employers Curriculum Subjects Art | Fine Art Computing | Computer Science English Design Technology Drama Food Preparation & Nutrition French Geography German History Latin Maths Media Studies Music Personal Development Photography Physical Education Religious Education Science Sculpture Spanish The Wellbeing Curriculum











