Halifax High at Wellesley Park, Gibbet Street, Halifax, West Yorkshire, HX2 0BA Telephone:01422 301080 Fax: 01422
301081 E-mail:admin@[Link]. Website [Link]
May 2012 Dear Parent/Carer As we move towards the half term break, I would like to take this opportunity to update you on developments at Halifax High during this term and to also remind you of important dates for your diary. Ofsted Science Inspection We were visited by Ofsted earlier this month and a two day inspection of the science faculty took place. I am very pleased to inform you that that the Ofsted judgement for science is Good in all aspects. The new Ofsted framework is now much more demanding and an achievement of Good is extremely positive. The Ofsted report reflects the continued progress of science and also of the school as a whole and is a further step towards our aim of becoming an outstanding school. The report should be available on the Ofsted website [Link] in the next two weeks. The report highlights many strengths in the teaching of Science at Halifax High including the following: Students from all groups make above average progress in science and all groups exceed challenging targets. Students enjoy science lessons. They particularly enjoy practical investigations which they approach responsibly. The relationship between teachers and students are exceptionally good. The school offers courses of study at Key Stage 4 that provide students of all aptitudes with the opportunity to gain a qualification in science. The schools senior leadership has a direct and positive impact on science. The science department is well organized and well led and staff form a cohesive team. The areas highlighted for development include developing students literacy skills, particularly writing. Many of our students starting at Halifax High in Year 7 are below national average expectations and skills in literacy and numeracy. The report comments that Halifax High school adds considerable value to students achievements during their time with us ( as was evidenced in the most recent DfEperformance tables). However, it is essential that the basic skills of communication - reading, writing, speaking and listening, together with mathematics are developed both in primary schools and secondary education. As a school we will be giving this an even higher priority in the future and working with our primary schools to ensure consistency of approach to the teaching of basic skills. As parents, you can support your child with this, encouraging them to read with you and emphasizing the need for carefully written, clearly punctuated handwriting.
Headteacher: Jackie Nellis Deputy Headteacher: Mick Kay Chair of Governors: Janet Sherrard Smith
Academy The Full Governing Body met on Tuesday 22nd May 2012 where a vote was taken on whether to continue with the process of Halifax High converting to be an Academy. The vote to continue was unanimous. I will keep you updated as the process continues. Commanders House project Work continues on the Commanders House project by Halifax High Parents and Community Association. An initial outline proposal has been submitted and accepted by the Big Lottery Fund. A final bid is close to being submitted which will hopefully secure funding to develop the Commanders House into a centre for our community. Early closure School will close early for all students at 12.30 pm on 13th and 26th June to allow for staff training. If your child usually has lunch in school, packed lunches will be available to take home. Dates for your diary Half term : school closes for students on Friday 1st June the school re-opens Monday 11th June at 10 am for all students. Midsummer : school closes for students on Friday 20th July at 12 noon. Thank you for your continued support this term. We appreciate the support that you as parents give to the school in ensuring that your child attends school regularly, is fully equipped, on time and smartly dressed. Can I emphasise the need for all students to wear the full uniform at all times, including black footwear only (not trainers), black blazer and a tie fastened correctly with the top button fastened. Students in Years 7 , 8 (and 9 from September 2012) should wear the clip-on tie. Short sleeved white school shirts/blouses may be worn during the summer months. A smart appearance encourages the right attitudes to learning and high expectations of behaviour. I know from talking to parents this is very important to you and that you, like us, want and expect the very best for your children. Please give this your full support. I hope you all have a very enjoyable Spring bank holiday. Lets hope the good weather continues! Kindest regards Yours sincerely
Jackie Nellis Headteacher
Headteacher: Jackie Nellis Deputy Headteacher: Mick Kay Chair of Governors: Janet Sherrard Smith