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< Back Tom Waugh Director of Learning - Digital Communications / Vocational Lead tom.waugh@rugbyfreesecondary.co.uk tom.waugh@rugbyfreesecondary.co.uk

< Back Gareth Campion Teacher of Food Technology gareth.champion@rugbyfreesecondary.co.uk gareth.champion@rugbyfreesecondary.co.uk

< Back Rachael Probert Head of Year 11 rachael.probert@rugbyfreesecondary.co.uk rachael.probert@rugbyfreesecondary.co.uk

< Back Lee Rice Teacher of English lee.rice@rugbyfreesecondary.co.uk lee.rice@rugbyfreesecondary.co.uk

Sociology The Rugby Free Secondary sociology curriculum allows students to develop an understanding of the world around them and how different social structures, processes and issues impact their day to day lives, as well as the lives of others. This gives students an opportunity to delve deeper into the many areas of their life that will shape their behaviour, identity and beliefs, while respecting those with different experiences. This knowledge and skill set will equip them for further study, as well as ensuring they never view the world in the same way again. Anchor 1 Anchor 2 core_values2 kind2 endeav3 core_values2 1/18 Back to Subjects You don't retire from sociology any more than you retire from life. Laurie Taylor (BBC Radio 4 presenter) Sociology Department - Overarching Curriculum Intent (September 2024) RFSS Curriculum Vision Statement: To build an inclusive curriculum which is aspirational for all and empowers our students to make outstanding academic and personal progress. Sociology Curriculum in Context: We live in an ever-changing world, where the impact of globalisation has led to greater diversity, less economic security and more technological change than ever before. These changes in wider society can be felt in schools too. They have led to wider gaps in achievement of groups such as the disadvantaged, ethnic minorities and students with additional needs within schools nationally and have also limited their access to other areas of society as well. Often these students are drawn to Social Science subjects, with A Level Sociology drawing in the more disadvantaged students than any other subject according to the Fischer Family Trust (2022). Often this is to make sense of their position in society, our curriculum has been designed to not only meet their needs and encourage inclusivity, but also allow these students to understand why these changes are happening through the exploration of current events and more recent studies. This has led to a focus on vocabulary throughout Key Stage Four and Key Stage Five to ensure that students have a secure understanding of key terminology that they are often introduced to for the first time in the subject. The elaborate vocabulary and concepts that students are introduced to can also be used in other subjects to show an enhanced understanding, with the 2019 AQA Paper 2 English Language Examiners report quoting that the strongest responses demonstrated an ability to engage with “’the big ideas’: politics, economics, gender, aesthetics, class, morality, psychology, even philosophy”. Throughout the RFSS Sociology curriculum, students will explore the different perspectives views of society and evaluate whether they are still relevant now. The curriculum allows students to explore contemporary issues, ensuring they are aware of political, economic, cultural and social changes that are occurring in society nowadays and can confidently apply them not just within the Social Science subjects, but the wider curriculum too. The curriculum also allows for students' personal development, giving students an opportunity to delve deeper into the many areas of their life that will shape their behaviour, identity and beliefs, while respecting that those with different experiences will likely hold different perspectives from them because of this. They will learn how sociologists strive to improve their society, making it a more equal place for all, but do so from different viewpoints and show resilience when others critique them because of this. Our intent is that our students will be offered a curriculum which is academically rigorous but also helps them to develop into curious and well-rounded young people, who will never view the world in the same way again. Curriculum Aims: Our curriculum aims to: Promote mastery, while encouraging students to be curious, resilient learners who can work independently and in groups to employ research skills that will be used into Higher Education and beyond. Develop students ability to analyse and evaluate through the exploration of different sociological perspectives. Ensure all students can make good progress by mastering core vocabulary, identifying trends in data and having a sound understanding of key concepts. Support students to understand their social world and experiences through the study key texts associated with some of the leading sociologists of the 20th century Our broad and balanced curriculum concentrates on developing our students’ key knowledge and skills, and enhances their understanding of the world around them. We do this by: Sequencing learning in a way that allows knowledge to be built upon so that students can make synoptic links across topics. Promoting curiosity, collaboration and resilience through independent and interdependent activities such as research projects and extra-curricular trips. Exploring key themes throughout the course, such as Gender, Social Class, Ethnicity, Age, Power, Wealth, the Media and Inequality, linking these with historical and current events. Introducing students to challenging terms and concepts through the study of twenty-five key texts that have shaped Sociological thinking. Participating in debates to improve oracy and evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of different sociological views, collect evidence to support their arguments and accept that people have different opinions. Promoting challenge for all through the use of additional studies and evaluative points. Our curriculum is focused on the development of communication, character and cultural capital of each individual student, so they become: Curious about their position in society and the ways that they can improve upon it Empathetic to the experiences of others and aware of how inequalities within society may effect their position Effective communicators who are able to see both sides of an argument and consider alternative perspectives. Critical thinkers who are able to evaluate alternative viewpoints and support their views with statistics and academic studies. Confident students who can apply their sociological imagination to other curriculum areas around the school. Curriculum Outcome: Students studying Sociology will leave RFSS as empathetic students who no longer take the interactions that they view on a daily basis on face value. They will forevermore apply sociological perspectives to the most simple events in their lives, will be fully equipped to employ skills desired by further education providers and employers alike, such as critical thinking, planning research and extended writing. Please view or download our 'Sequence Overview' document for Sociology Kindness We regularly give ‘shout outs’ for staff who have gone above and beyond and demonstrated an exceptional display of one of our values We encourage and try to support flexible working requests and promote ‘family values’ as something that makes the workforce distinctive. We try to ensure staff have the opportunity to attend personal events or celebrations when requested and within agreed time frame. Collaboration We have an active Staff Wellbeing committee who meet regularly to discuss staff wellbeing and workload. We provide all new staff with a ‘buddy’ to provide support and advice. We plan a variety of staff social events across the year. We provide staff with a free lunch on the day of their duty. We have regular staff breakfasts, provide food on all CPD days and occasional treats such as Pizza! Curiosity We invest heavily in staff CPD and both promote and support opportunities to develop staff. We provide opportunities for all staff to network and visit other schools to improve their practice and share great ideas. Respect We have a Staff Room, where staff can meet, work and even socialise Each faculty has its own staff work room We have regular appraisal conversations to discuss career progression Resilience We promote resilience through our reflective CPD pathways. We have an area in the staff room dedicated to wellbeing which is used to promote health and wellbeing. We share weekly health and wellbeing information. Endeavour Promote a work life balance by being considerate when sending emails and holding meetings. We will endeavor to celebrate our staff and their achievements on a regular basis, for example; a black tie celebration evening.

Design & Technology The design and technology curriculum aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to participate confidently and successfully in an increasingly technological world. Students will have the opportunity to explore the five key curriculum concepts: materials and their working properties, specialist techniques and processes, communication of designs, prototype development and impact on society and the environment. Anchor 1 Anchor 2 core_values2 kind2 endeav3 core_values2 1/18 Back to Subjects Design and Technology is a phenomenally important subject. Logical, creative and practical, it's the only opportunity students have to apply what they learn in maths and science. James Dyson Product Design Department – Overarching Curriculum Intent 2024-25 RFSS Curriculum Vision Statement: To build an inclusive curriculum which is aspirational for all and empowers our students to make outstanding academic and personal progress. Design & Technology Curriculum in Context: In 2022 the IET discovered that there is an estimated shortfall of over 173,000 workers in STEM sectors, with an average of 10 unfilled roles per business in the UK, costing the economy a “shocking” £1.5bn each year. 49% of engineering businesses are experiencing difficulties recruiting workers with the skills they need. Design and technology is more than a practical subject. The knowledge gained from learning the subject allows pupils to understand how the world around them has been created. Through first-hand experiences they can see that things are designed and made to help people in their daily lives. To that end, through designing and making products, pupils are realising their ability to respond to needs and wants, whilst solving real-life problems. At RFSS the Design & Technology curriculum is collaboratively and coherently planned and sequenced across Years 7- 9/GCSE to ensure that pupils build on all aspects of prior learning and stretches and challenges all pupils regardless of starting point. As pupils progress through Key Stage 3, they are given the opportunity to develop skills in using a range of materials and equipment as well as understanding the process of designing and making products. Cultural capital is explored across the key stages by appreciation of the work of others locally, nationally and internationally, each subject identifies and relates to real contextual challenges focusing upon people, communities or businesses. Curriculum Aims: Our curriculum aims to: Excite and ignite our pupils’ interest in product design and prepare them to participate in the development of a rapidly changing world. To ensure that learners develop technical and practical competencies as well as the wider skills valued by employers. To have a curriculum which will allow students to become self-motivated and confident learners, who can work independently and as part of a team. Our broad and balanced curriculum concentrates on developing our students’ key knowledge and skills, and enhances their understanding of the world around them. We do this by: Incorporating elements of KS4 work even in year 7 as we instil in all our pupils high academic rigour and challenge from the outset. Enabling pupils to experience a range of product design projects and contexts, taught by subject specialist teachers that are enthusiastic about their subjects and share this passion with all our pupils. Use academic language consistently and appropriately in their subject specific teaching and learning where pupils are encouraged to use tier 2 & 3 language in lessons both verbally and in extended written work for example in evaluations. Planning projects, tasks and challenges to enable students to find areas that they can excel in, that they may never have had the opportunity to see or do. Our curriculum is focused on the development of communication, character and cultural capital of each individual student, so they become: Able to problem solve real contextualised briefs in a variety of materials and using a range of strategies. Able to analyse, critique and evaluate their own work and the work of others. Critical and creative thinkers problem solvers evaluators and decision makers. Willing to express their own creativity through their designs and are more socially confident to give their opinions. Curriculum Outcome: As a result of our curriculum, students will leave RFSS with a range of practical modern life skills and create a work ethic to prepare students for the world of work. Please view or download our 'Sequence Overview' document for Design Technology Kindness We regularly give ‘shout outs’ for staff who have gone above and beyond and demonstrated an exceptional display of one of our values We encourage and try to support flexible working requests and promote ‘family values’ as something that makes the workforce distinctive. We try to ensure staff have the opportunity to attend personal events or celebrations when requested and within agreed time frame. Collaboration We have an active Staff Wellbeing committee who meet regularly to discuss staff wellbeing and workload. We provide all new staff with a ‘buddy’ to provide support and advice. We plan a variety of staff social events across the year. We provide staff with a free lunch on the day of their duty. We have regular staff breakfasts, provide food on all CPD days and occasional treats such as Pizza! Curiosity We invest heavily in staff CPD and both promote and support opportunities to develop staff. We provide opportunities for all staff to network and visit other schools to improve their practice and share great ideas. Respect We have a Staff Room, where staff can meet, work and even socialise Each faculty has its own staff work room We have regular appraisal conversations to discuss career progression Resilience We promote resilience through our reflective CPD pathways. We have an area in the staff room dedicated to wellbeing which is used to promote health and wellbeing. We share weekly health and wellbeing information. Endeavour Promote a work life balance by being considerate when sending emails and holding meetings. We will endeavor to celebrate our staff and their achievements on a regular basis, for example; a black tie celebration evening.

< Back Kelly Davies Attendance Officer kelly.davies@rugbyfreesecondary.co.uk kelly.davies@rugbyfreesecondary.co.uk

Attenborough House Le aders Anchor 1 Student Student Student Student

Digital Communications - Business Studies Business Studies equips learners with the skills and confidence to explore how different business situations affect business decisions. This qualification will encourage learners to make informed choices about a wide range of further learning opportunities and career pathways as well as develop life skills that enable them to become financially and commercially aware. Students will develop an understanding of the skills and qualities needed to start up businesses, the risks and rewards involved and the processes entrepreneurs go through when developing business ideas. Anchor 1 Anchor 2 core_values2 kind2 endeav3 core_values2 1/18 Back to Subjects Business opportunities are like buses, there’s always another one coming. Richard Branson Digital Communication - Overarching Curriculum Intent (September 2024) RFSS Curriculum Vision Statement: To build an inclusive curriculum which is aspirational for all and empowers our students to make outstanding academic and personal progress. Digital Communication Curriculum in Context: Society is moving into the digital realm at pace, with the advent of AI, advanced programming and roles in the computer science industry increasingly in demand it is important we at RFSS provide a bedrock for our student to live and work in this new world. The students that attend RFSS face a number of challenges from high cost of living in Rugby, where 1 in 3 of our students live in deprived parts of the town and lots of our parents having limited experiences of higher education but conversely many of students are at the opposite end of that spectrum. We have built a curriculum that both bridges the gaps in student understanding of basic digital communication tools as well as developing the skills and attributes needed to be a success long term in the computing, business and media fields. Our curriculum must try to lay these foundations to ensure all student have the skills needed to live and work with the tools demanded by the creative industries and businesses around the world, if we are to provide a route out of depravation and expand our students’ horizons we need to encourage broader thinking in terms of opportunities and experiences beyond the boundaries of Rugby. Our curriculum must serve to provide student with even basic tools like MS Office but to also push beyond this into coding, AI and content creation. Our broad curriculum aims to meet these long-term requirements on citizens whilst enthusing and inspiring students to take up careers and interests in our subject suite. Curriculum Aims: Fully support students that are happy, healthy and safe in the modern world. Provide support one-to-one to enable all levels of academic progress, ensure students maximise their ability and talent in our subjects to achieve both on a personal and academic level We have an inclusive curriculum, designed to support learners of differing abilities from core to complex understanding clearly mapped. Empower our students to know more, remember more and be able to do more: Understand a range of programs and their features Understand the language of computer science, media and business, using the technical language and key terms in our fields Work independently, students will be provided with guidance and structures from skilled and knowledgeable staff to help them be creative as individuals Inspire our students to strive for excellence and success throughout their lives: We want students to develop their skills like acorns, to study our subjects at University, in Apprenticeships and in their careers as they become mighty Oaks Challenge students to push beyond basic understanding and apply key skills in thinking and being creative Prepare our students to be both digitally literate, aware of the environment in which their digital selves operate but also to create new content Our broad and balanced curriculum concentrates on developing our students’ key knowledge and skills, and enhances their understanding of the world around them. We do this by: Stimulating intellectual curiosity and independence to explore ideas, programs and inspiring student’s creativity Facilitating collaboration, students will share new techniques, be self-critical and supportive peers Promoting challenge for all, irrespective of starting points by scaffolding knowledge and understanding allowing students to develop their skills and maximise their potential. Enabling creativity, students have broad choices to develop their own pathway through united and interpretation of briefs. Sequencing learning to ensure logical progression, both horizontally and vertically. Content and skills are revisited across the key stages and across our suite of subjects to develop confident learners Revisiting previous learning, key vocabulary, ideas and concepts to support the transfer to long-term memory. Ensuring our students are literate and confident using subject specific terminology in context, both showing understanding and being confident to converse in the language of computing, business and media Our curriculum is focused on the development of communication, character and cultural capital of each individual student, so they become: Empathetic citizens who contribute positively to society in a respectful manner, who understand the power of the tools we use and the responsibility they have to use these tools correctly Reflective learners who are resilient enough to problem solve, reason, evaluate and debate as well as become critical of their outcomes to develop skills for the future. Articulate individuals who can verbalise their own thoughts, ideas and emotions. We support creativity and encourage all to express their ideas regardless of starting points. Hard-working and empathetic young people who are aware of how their learning links to real-world situations and can forge these links independently. Curriculum Outcome: As a consequence of our curriculum, students who leave RFSS will be equipped with the academic qualifications and personal qualities to progress into further education and employment. Our students will have a positive outlook and a commitment to achieving their personal best, being creative, enterprising and innovative through a love of life-long learning. Please view or download our 'Sequence Overview' document for Business Kindness We regularly give ‘shout outs’ for staff who have gone above and beyond and demonstrated an exceptional display of one of our values We encourage and try to support flexible working requests and promote ‘family values’ as something that makes the workforce distinctive. We try to ensure staff have the opportunity to attend personal events or celebrations when requested and within agreed time frame. Collaboration We have an active Staff Wellbeing committee who meet regularly to discuss staff wellbeing and workload. We provide all new staff with a ‘buddy’ to provide support and advice. We plan a variety of staff social events across the year. We provide staff with a free lunch on the day of their duty. We have regular staff breakfasts, provide food on all CPD days and occasional treats such as Pizza! Curiosity We invest heavily in staff CPD and both promote and support opportunities to develop staff. We provide opportunities for all staff to network and visit other schools to improve their practice and share great ideas. Respect We have a Staff Room, where staff can meet, work and even socialise Each faculty has its own staff work room We have regular appraisal conversations to discuss career progression Resilience We promote resilience through our reflective CPD pathways. We have an area in the staff room dedicated to wellbeing which is used to promote health and wellbeing. We share weekly health and wellbeing information. Endeavour Promote a work life balance by being considerate when sending emails and holding meetings. We will endeavor to celebrate our staff and their achievements on a regular basis, for example; a black tie celebration evening.

< Back Laura Caldas Director of Learning - MFL Laura.Caldas@rugbyfreesecondary.co.uk Laura.Caldas@rugbyfreesecondary.co.uk

Student Leadership Team Anchor 1 Year 13 Head Students Attenborough House Leaders Year 11 Head Students Pankhurst House Leaders Student Leaders Turing House Leaders Ali House Leaders

OFSTED & OUTCOMES Anchor 1 Click the icon for our latest Ofsted report Ofsted Report Pupil Premium Performance Information SEND Information Report and Policy Self Evaluation and School Improvement Plan Key Stage 4 & 5 Provisional Outcomes 2024

< Back Siobhan Powell Teacher of Science siobhan.powell@rugbyfreesecondary.co.uk siobhan.powell@rugbyfreesecondary.co.uk

Meet Mark Laity Anchor 1 Back to Our School Anchor 2 core_values2 kind2 endeav3 core_values2 1/18 Learn a little more about Mark Laity Mark has been a qualified History teacher since 2008, working with students across Key Stage 3, 4 and 5. He has worked across Leicester, Coventry and Warwickshire in the course of his career and in a number of challenging educational environments, spending long stints at inner city schools in Leicester and Coventry helping them in their journey from Ofsted ratings of Requires Improvement to Good. Mark is an experienced middle leader having been head of department for a number of years at two of the different schools he’s worked at, where one of his duties included the complete curriculum rebuild for both GCSE and A-Level History. Mark moved to RFSS in the September of 2021 to work as Assistant Director of Learning for Humanities, eventually being promoted to the role of co-Director of Humanities along with another member of staff. It is whilst at RFSS that Mark was given the opportunity to work with members of the senior leadership team as Pupil Premium Lead for the school, and through this role he has gained valuable leadership experience across a whole school setting. In December 2023 Mark completed his NPQSL which focused on the implementation of initiatives to help support the teaching and learning of Pupil Premium students and how to assess their effectiveness. Outside of school life Mark enjoys spending time with his partner, family and socialising with friends, he can be found regularly in the gym, and weather permitting losing golf balls across various courses in the UK and abroad. He is a supporter of Coventry City FC and tries to watch them as often as he can.

Anchor 1 If there are any additional questions or queries you have, whether for this upcoming September admissions or looking ahead to the future, please do not hesitate to get in touch – there is no question too big or too small! You will find my contact details at the bottom of this page. I very much look forward to meeting you all at some point soon as you look to start your secondary school adventure with us here at Rugby Free Secondary School. Anchor 2 core_values2 kind2 endeav3 core_values2 1/18 Parents & Carers The move from primary school to secondary school is one that is often faced with a mixture of emotions; excitement, nerves, hope for the future, but a fear of the unknown. My hope is that this page is able to allay some of those fears by providing you with answers to many of the questions you may have around this transition process. Year 7: Transition Hello and welcome to RFSS! Kindness We regularly give ‘shout outs’ for staff who have gone above and beyond and demonstrated an exceptional display of one of our values We encourage and try to support flexible working requests and promote ‘family values’ as something that makes the workforce distinctive. We try to ensure staff have the opportunity to attend personal events or celebrations when requested and within agreed time frame. Collaboration We have an active Staff Wellbeing committee who meet regularly to discuss staff wellbeing and workload. We provide all new staff with a ‘buddy’ to provide support and advice. We plan a variety of staff social events across the year. We provide staff with a free lunch on the day of their duty. We have regular staff breakfasts, provide food on all CPD days and occasional treats such as Pizza! Curiosity We invest heavily in staff CPD and both promote and support opportunities to develop staff. We provide opportunities for all staff to network and visit other schools to improve their practice and share great ideas. Respect We have a Staff Room, where staff can meet, work and even socialise Each faculty has its own staff work room We have regular appraisal conversations to discuss career progression Resilience We promote resilience through our reflective CPD pathways. We have an area in the staff room dedicated to wellbeing which is used to promote health and wellbeing. We share weekly health and wellbeing information. Endeavour Promote a work life balance by being considerate when sending emails and holding meetings. We will endeavor to celebrate our staff and their achievements on a regular basis, for example; a black tie celebration evening. Bethan Austen Senior Assistant Headteacher Click here for our recent Transition Taster Events We ensure all students can establish positive relationships with their peers, and very quickly feel part of the RFSS family. Summer School 2022

Ali House Leaders Anchor 1 A house leader is someone who will demonstrate RFSS values and ethos, they will have the desire to act responsibly and be a role model for other students. A house leader will be able to converse with staff, peers and the wider community. The are committed to encouraging others and recruiting members of the school community to participate in house events. Amna Ali Aakash Choudary Eleanor Drake Lily Baker Intira Chanrai

< Back Gayle Markham Inclusion Coordinater gayle.markham@rugbyfreesecondary.co.uk gayle.markham@rugbyfreesecondary.co.uk

Pupil Premium Rugby Free Secondary School is committed to providing a positive and engaging learning experience for all students. Anchor 1 Anchor 2 core_values2 kind2 endeav3 core_values2 1/18 Parents & Carers Inclusive education is essential because school is enhanced by inclusion, diminshed without it. Should you require further advice and guidance in addition to the information below, please contact Mr Laity on mark.laity@rugbyfreesecondary.co.uk The Pupil Premium is one of the most important tools we have to address the stubborn link between family income and education outcomes. Used purposefully, it can help tackle some of the barriers that stand in the way of eligible pupils’ progress. Please click the attachment to the left to see our action plan to address the barriers that Pupil Premium students face. Please click the attachment to the left to see our Pupil Premium review statement for 2024 - 2025. Research has found that disadvantaged students have been worst affected by the impact of the pandemic. It is therefore more important than ever that school strategies focus on support for disadvantaged students’. (EEF, 2021) National Context: Taken from (www.gov.uk , 2021): Disadvantaged students tend to have lower educational attainment compared to their peers. This attainment gap exists by 9 months by the end of Year 6 (1 academic year) and by 18 months by the end of Year 11 (2 academic years). The attainment gap has stopped closing for the first time in over a decade. • This has been compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Office for Fiscal Studies shows that at the current rate of change, it will take 560 years for the attainment gap to be equalised. Statistically, there are more families north of London that are classified as being disadvantaged. (www.northernpowerhousepartnership.co.uk 2022) The Six Central Barriers: (Taken from EEF, 2021) 1. Technological Access: There is less access to technology. In several cases, access to technology is shared. In other instances, there is a lack of internet in the household. 2. Aspirations & Understanding: In several cases, there is a generational lack of aspiration, with many students encouraged to follow in the footsteps of their family members. Some disadvantaged households shy away from support mechanisms, sometimes due to embarrassment. 3. Parental Engagement & Support: There are often increased pressures placed on disadvantaged students to earn money, as opposed to studying at home. The need for survival often outweighs delayed gratification. 4. Time: Studies indicate that on average, a non-disadvantaged student in secondary school works for 5.8 hours per week outside of school hours - this compares to 4.5 hours per week for a disadvantaged student. 5. Attendance: Disadvantaged students tend to have lower attendance than their non-disadvantaged counterparts. This is particularly evident when there are key events occurring, such as Mock Exams. Attendance to additional sessions after-school also tend to be lower for disadvantaged students. 6. Qualifications: Some schools narrow the curriculum, meaning that students do not sit qualifications that showcase their holistic skills. Our analysis and school-based research indicates that Barrier 1 is the most prevalent across year groups at RFSS, and that Barrier 2 is particularly common within Key Stage 4. Barrier 5 is also a significant issue in Year 11, with numerous legacy school-refusers (many of whom are PP). Barrier 6 is something being addressed within the Year 9 Options process. The Seven Steps to Success: (Taken from EEF, 2021): 1. What happens in the classroom makes the biggest difference: improving teaching quality generally leads to greater improvements at lower cost than structural changes. Good teaching for all pupils has a particular benefit for disadvantaged pupils. 2. Targeted small group and one-to-one interventions have the potential for the largest immediate impact on attainment. 3. The transition between phases of education – notably early years to primary, and primary to secondary – is a risk-point for vulnerable learners. Year 7 often sees the gap widen further and never recover. 4. Catch up is difficult: we should aim to get it right first time round for all children. 5. Literacy is a vital component for disadvantaged students and there is no excuse for not deploying the existing, extensive evidence to support the teaching of it. 6. Essential life skills (or ‘character’) are important in determining life chances and can be measured in a robust and comparable way. Much less is known, however, about how these skills can be developed and whether they lead to increased academic attainment. 7. Sharing effective practice between schools – and building capacity and effective mechanisms for doing so – is key to closing the gap. Our Approach: At RFSS, our plan is rooted in research and best practice that then been evaluated adapted for our context. The primary foundations for our plan have centred on the EEF’s Guide to Supporting School Planning: A Tiered Approach - and this piece of work underpins the priorities, actions and barriers for Catch-Up at RFSS. The context of our school reflects the themes and patterns from national research, but strategies have been tailored to needs of our students and their families. When compiling potential actions for this academic year, consideration was given to the three tiers explained in the aforementioned EEF publication, which are as follows: 1. Teaching 2. Targeted Academic Support 3. Wider Strategies Consequently, all actions and strategies are mapped against these three tiers, with research used to support the implementation of, and rationale behind, these strategies. Therefore, our strategies relate not just to the academic progress of students, but to their development as a whole. We work hard to ensure that assumptions about the lower expectations of disadvantaged students, and their families, are not made and that diagnostic assessments are used to plan flight paths to map minimum expected progress. All students are taught to strive for maximum progress and attainment, throughout all years and subjects. The research is consistent with surveys of parents and teachers on access to education during the pandemic, which indicates disparities in access to technology and levels of parental support -one potential explanation for why gaps might open between groups of students. The recent evidence is also consistent with prior research, which shows differential learning loss during summer holidays and other school closures, which is summarised in the EEF rapid evidence assessment on school closures. These studies have also influenced the thought process behind the interventions and strategies that have been implemented. It is important to note at this point, the significant challenges that the school has faced prior to the existing Leadership Team joining. Issues such as low staff morale and challenges in recruiting reputable teaching staff led to a poor reputation in the local community; something the new Leadership Team have worked hard to improve since their appointments, ensuring that communication, relationships and community are at the centre of what we do at RFSS. The school is now rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted and has become very popular with record numbers of students in Year 7 (213) and a blossoming Sixth Form (192). The increasing numbers have led to an increase in FSM, Pupil Premium and EAL students. If you are a parent or carer of a Pupil Premium child, some useful links are below: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/pupil-premium/pupil-premium https://educationhub.blog.gov.uk/2023/04/04/what-is-pupil-premium-funding-for-schools-how-benefit-child/

Music The music curriculum is designed to give all students the opportunity to develop their musical potential to its fullest, regardless of their background or musical experience. Students will explore music as a means of self-expression, be creative, experience making music with others and develop subject specific knowledge and skills. Anchor 1 Anchor 2 core_values2 kind2 endeav3 core_values2 1/18 Back to Subjects The future of our nation depends on providing our children with a complete education that includes music. Gerald Ford: USA President Music Department - Overarching Curriculum Intent (June 2024) RFSS Curriculum Vision Statement: To cultivate a vibrant community of musicians who ignite their creative fire and confidently share their musical voices through exceptional performance. Music Curriculum in Context: Music Curriculum Intent: Performance and Creativity Our music curriculum fosters a lifelong love of music through performance and creativity. We aim to empower students to become confident and expressive musicians, capable of sharing their musical voice with the world. Curriculum Aims: Performance: We believe that all students can develop their performance skills, regardless of prior experience. Regular solo and ensemble performance opportunities will build confidence, stage presence, and musical communication skills. Creativity: We encourage students to explore their musical ideas, experiment with composition and improvisation, and express themselves through music. Musical Literacy: Students will develop a strong foundation in music theory, including aural skills, notation, and music history. This knowledge will underpin their performance and creative endeavors. Collaboration: Music is a social art form. Students will learn to collaborate effectively in ensembles, developing teamwork, communication, and active listening skills. Key Skills and Knowledge Performance Skills: Technique on chosen instrument(s), vocal technique (if applicable), stage presence, rehearsal strategies, performance etiquette. Creative Skills: Composition, improvisation, exploration of different musical styles and genres. Music Literacy: Music theory basics, notation (reading and writing), aural skills (sight-singing, ear training), music history. Ensemble Skills: Part-playing, following a conductor, maintaining balance and blend, group dynamics. Assessment Assessment will be a continuous process that focuses on both individual progress and ensemble development. It will include: Performance assessments: Solo and ensemble performances throughout the year, with self and peer evaluation. Composition/Improvisation projects: Creation and presentation of original musical work. Music theory and aural skills assessments: Written and practical tasks to measure understanding. Learning Environment The Music department has transformed the classrooms into four bespoke learning zones that are: Inclusive and supportive: We create a safe space where students feel comfortable taking risks, experimenting, and expressing themselves musically. Hands-on and engaging: Lessons will be interactive and student-centered, with a focus on active music-making and participation. Technology integration: Technology will be used to enhance learning, such as composing software, notation programs, and interactive music learning platforms. Performance opportunities: Students will have regular opportunities to perform in a variety of settings, both inside and outside the school community. Learning Zone 1 – Music practice rooms Learning Zone 2 – Music technology room Learning Zone 3 – Keyboard room Learning Zone 4 – Performance room 6. Progression Our music curriculum fosters a love of learning through a progressive journey that ignites creativity and celebrates performance. We believe all students possess a musical voice, and our program empowers them to discover and express it with confidence. Progression is structured and signposted from year 7 through to the end of KS4 clearly building on prior knowledge and skills. 7. Links to Wider Curriculum Music has strong links to other curriculum areas, such as: Mathematics: Through music theory concepts like rhythm and counting. English: Through exploring lyrics, storytelling through music, and music history. History and Culture: Through studying music from different cultures and eras. We will build these connections to create a holistic learning experience for students. 8. Beyond the Classroom We encourage students to pursue their passion for music outside the classroom by: Joining the established school ensembles: Bands, choirs, orchestras, or other performance groups. Taking private lessons: To further develop their skills on a chosen instrument. Attending concerts and music events: To experience music live and broaden their musical horizons. This curriculum intent document provides a framework for a music program that prioritizes performance and creativity. It aims to ignite a passion for music in all students, empowering them to become confident and expressive musicians for life. Curriculum Outcome: A well-designed music curriculum should strive for a balance between performance and creativity. Here's how these outcomes can be intertwined: Performance Outcomes: Technical Skills: Students demonstrate proficiency in playing instruments, singing, or using music technology. This includes accuracy, control, and proper technique. Ensemble Performance: Students collaborate effectively with others to create a unified musical experience. This involves listening, responding, and adapting to each other. Stage Presence: Students present themselves confidently and expressively during performances. This includes posture, facial expressions, and body language that enhance the music. Performance Repertoire: Students have a growing repertoire of pieces learned and performed at various levels of difficulty. Creative Outcomes: Improvisation: Students spontaneously create music based on existing musical ideas or structures. Composition: Students develop original musical pieces, demonstrating understanding of musical elements like melody, harmony, and rhythm. Musical Interpretation: Students creatively express their own ideas and feelings while performing existing pieces. This can involve dynamics, tempo, or phrasing choices. Arranging/Remixing: Students adapt existing pieces to create their own unique versions, showcasing understanding of musical structure and experimentation. Technology Integration: Students explore music technology (e.g., synthesizers, music production software) to create and manipulate music with originality. Weaving Performance and Creativity Together: Creative Performance Assignments: Students perform familiar pieces with their own creative choices, like improvised sections, unique arrangements, or movement incorporated into the music. Composition Performance: Students showcase their original compositions to an audience, gaining feedback and performance experience. Interactive Performances: Students engage the audience through improvisation, audience participation, or movement during the performance. Improvisation Challenges: Create performances based on prompts, themes, or audience suggestions, fostering creative thinking on the spot. Please download our RFSS 24-25 Music Development Plan Kindness We regularly give ‘shout outs’ for staff who have gone above and beyond and demonstrated an exceptional display of one of our values We encourage and try to support flexible working requests and promote ‘family values’ as something that makes the workforce distinctive. We try to ensure staff have the opportunity to attend personal events or celebrations when requested and within agreed time frame. Collaboration We have an active Staff Wellbeing committee who meet regularly to discuss staff wellbeing and workload. We provide all new staff with a ‘buddy’ to provide support and advice. We plan a variety of staff social events across the year. We provide staff with a free lunch on the day of their duty. We have regular staff breakfasts, provide food on all CPD days and occasional treats such as Pizza! Curiosity We invest heavily in staff CPD and both promote and support opportunities to develop staff. We provide opportunities for all staff to network and visit other schools to improve their practice and share great ideas. Respect We have a Staff Room, where staff can meet, work and even socialise Each faculty has its own staff work room We have regular appraisal conversations to discuss career progression Resilience We promote resilience through our reflective CPD pathways. We have an area in the staff room dedicated to wellbeing which is used to promote health and wellbeing. We share weekly health and wellbeing information. Endeavour Promote a work life balance by being considerate when sending emails and holding meetings. We will endeavor to celebrate our staff and their achievements on a regular basis, for example; a black tie celebration evening.

Meet Lizi Towle Anchor 1 Back to Our School Anchor 2 core_values2 kind2 endeav3 core_values2 1/18 Learn a Little more about Lizi Towle Lizi is a dedicated educator with a wealth of experience spanning 15 years in both primary and secondary education settings. Her primary expertise has been instrumental in instilling a passion for learning in students, facilitating a smooth transition as they move into secondary education. Lizi's transition work has garnered an 'outstanding' rating from Ofsted, reflecting her commitment to student success. Upon relocating to the area in 2023, Lizi pursued and completed her SENDCO qualification while working at an inner-city secondary school. Here, she established herself as a formidable advocate for students with Special Educational Needs, showcasing her unwavering dedication to inclusive education and support. With over 8 years of experience as a valuable member of a highly successful Senior Leadership Team (SLT), Lizi has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to ensuring the best possible outcomes for all students. Her leadership roles in various subjects, including Geography, Music, English, History, Social Sciences, and French, underscore her versatile skill set and passion for fostering academic excellence across disciplines.