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New School Prospectus from 2013
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W e l c o m e t o Q u e e n E l i z a b e t h ’ s H i g h S c h o o l
Queen Elizabeth’s High SchoolG a i n s b o r o u g h
Queen Elizabeth’s High SchoolG a i n s b o r o u g h
A welcome from the Head
Welcome to QEHS and thank you for your interest in our school.
We have been providing outstanding education for young people in
Gainsborough and surrounding areas for over 420 years and we are proud
of our heritage.
We have an enviable reputation for excellence in all that we do and our
students are our greatest ambassadors.
Students generally have one chance to obtain an excellent education that
can support them throughout their life. With this is mind, we aim to
ensure that every student has the opportunities, experiences and
qualifications to be the best they can be.
Visitors to our school often comment
on the warmth and friendliness of the
atmosphere we have and whether you
have already visited us or
intend to in the future, I am confident
that you will find the same warmth
from the staff and students. QEHS is a
happy school where children are en-
couraged and supported to strive for
their best in all of their endeavours. We aim to provide breadth of expe-
rience and depth of understanding across the time that your son or daugh-
ter will be with us.
I hope that you find this prospectus informative and inspiring. Should you
have any questions which are not answered within it then please feel free
to contact the school or check our website.
As Ofsted said in their 2008 report, ‘at QEHS, every child really
Queen Elizabeth’s
High School
David
Queen Elizabeth’s High SchoolG a i n s b o r o u g h
Queen Elizabeth’s
High School
A welcome from the Head
Welcome to QEHS and thank you for your interest in our school.
We have been providing outstanding education for young people in
Gainsborough and surrounding areas for over 420 years and we are proud
of our heritage.
We have an enviable reputation for excellence in all that we do and our
students are our greatest ambassadors.
Students generally have one chance to obtain an excellent education that
can support them throughout their life. With this is mind, we aim to
ensure that every student has the opportunities, experiences and
qualifications to be the best they can be.
Visitors to our school often comment
on the warmth and friendliness of the
atmosphere here and whether you
have already visited us, or intend to do
so, I am confident that you will find the
same warmth from both staff and
students. QEHS is a happy school
where children are encouraged and
supported to strive for their best in all of their endeavours. We aim to
provide breadth of experience and depth of understanding across the time
that your son or daughter will be with us.
I hope that you find this prospectus informative and inspiring. Should you
have any questions which are not answered within it then please feel free
to contact the school or check our website.
As Ofsted said in their 2008 report, ‘at QEHS, every child really
does matter’.
Mr David Allsop
“At QEHS, every
child really does
matter ” Ofsted 2008
Queen Elizabeth’s High SchoolG a i n s b o r o u g h
Queen Elizabeth’s High School was formed when Sir Robert Somerscale was granted a Charter in 1589
by Queen Elizabeth I to educate the young people of Gainsborough. We have been doing so ever since,
and Queen Elizabeth’s is a forward thinking, vibrant school. We are proud of, and celebrate, our history
and traditions but are very much a school of the 21st Century.
Our curriculum is traditional in nature, being mainly based upon a GCSE and A level model. However,
where appropriate for our students, we embrace new qualifications and learning models. Importantly,
our curriculum is based around our aims to fulfil the potential of each student and ensure that our students
become well-balanced adults who are inspired to continue their learning and are able to contribute
positively to society.
Our students leave us armed with the skills and qualifications to succeed in our ever changing world.
Many of our students who start with us in Year 7 join our sixth form and go on to successful university
careers. Those who do not choose this learning path, are provided with an excellent grounding
throughout the school for a wide variety of careers. Whichever path an individual student chooses to
follow, the better the quality of their qualifications, the more choices they have.
It is our intention that Queen Elizabeth’s is very much a Gainsborough Grammar School. However, we
cover a large area of over 700 square miles which runs from the south of Doncaster in the north to the
northern edge of Saxilby in the south. The main A15 forms our eastern boundary and we graze the eastern
edge of Retford to the west. The precise area we cover each year changes due to the application of the
entry criteria. Details can be found on our website.
Those students who qualify and gain a place at QEHS will find a friendly and welcoming school.
We are fortunate to have a highly qualified and experienced staff that is able to support and challenge
young people to meet their full potential. We are recognised for our supportive ethos coupled with an
enviable reputation for outstanding education and levels of attainment.
All students are treated as individuals, and we strive to make the experience of the students as
personalised as possible. Breadth, along with depth, are encouraged in the curriculum, particularly as
students move through the school.
We encourage students to make the most of the opportunities we provide, from sports, through the
expressive, visual and performance arts to chess and community involvement. Whatever interests a
student has, we have something for them and if we don’t, we encourage them to set up their own
society.
In short, Queen Elizabeth’s is an outstanding school, providing excellence in education and wider
experience which we hope sets students up for successful and fulfilling lives.
Queen Elizabeth’s High SchoolG a i n s b o r o u g h
Queen Elizabeth’s High SchoolG a i n s b o r o u g h
The Curriculum
The curriculum of any school should be a representation of its core aims. Here at QEHS, it is no different and we recognise that
the study of broadly ‘academic’ subjects is the best way to ensure our students have the widest possible options open to them
post-16 and post-18.
In Years 10 and 11, all students continue Maths, English Language and Literature, Science (the three separate Sciences or Core and
Additional Science), RS, PE and Citizenship/PSHE. In addition to this, students will choose GCSEs from:
• a language, selected from French, German and Spanish
• a humanity, selected from Religious Studies, Geography, History, and for the most able, AS levels in Sociology or
Classical Civilisation.
• and further GCSE choices, selected from Music, Art, Graphics, Resistant Materials, Electronic Products, Food
Technology, Sports Studies, Business Studies and ICT
The Sixth Form curriculum is in line with our aims and is based around traditional A levels.
Religious Studies
RS is a discipline within the Humanities Faculty. The aims and objectives of the department are recognised as being part of the
overall function of the school to support the spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of the student and to embody the
school’s curriculum principles.
Students are encouraged to develop a positive work ethic and aim to achieve their full potential, whatever their ability.
An effective use of language is an essential pre-requisite of this subject. Therefore, we are aiming to develop students’ vocabularies
as well as individual RS skills. Students should acquire the
appropriate religious terminology at each Key Stage.
The department is committed to promoting equality and
achievement, irrespective of sex, race or disability. There is
constant emphasis on giving all students the chance to voice
their opinions, regardless of gender, ability, race or belief. The
programme of study includes opportunities for discussing
gender, stereotyping and religious, racial and general
prejudice and discrimination. The department aims to promote a learning environment where all cultures are valued. It is intended,
therefore, that all students are given the opportunity to experience a positive study of RS.
Students are encouraged to discuss issues from an informed position. They should also learn the importance of listening to other
people’s views, even though they may differ from their own. They should express themselves clearly in writing, employing
grammatically correct sentences and paying attention to their spelling and punctuation.
In conjunction with the above philosophy, the aims and objectives of the department recognise and deliver the specific aims and
objectives directly related to the Lincolnshire Agreed Syllabus for RS.
“Cultural differences are celebrated
and students recognise the importance
of understanding how others live and
their beliefs.” Ofsted 2008
Sixth Form
Queen Elizabeth’s has a dynamic Sixth Form of around 300 students. Students in the Sixth Form here achieve at a very high
standard, well above the national average. Most of our students take a course of three or four A Levels and almost all go on to
university. It is a long-standing tradition that many of our students secure places on some of the most prestigious undergraduate
courses on offer.
In addition, our students benefit from the opportunities
presented through a rich and varied programme of
extra-curricular enrichment activities, as well as taking on a
wide range of leadership positions within the school
community. Students leave the school as well-rounded
individuals who go on to forge successful careers and make
valuable contributions to society.
Our Sixth Form students are accommodated in a purpose built Sixth Form Centre, which balances tradition with modernity, and
this is being developed as numbers in the Sixth Form steadily increase.
Those who know the Sixth Form well say it has a special and friendly atmosphere, and we are always willing to show visitors
around the site and answer any questions they may have.
14-19 Provision: The bigger picture
The educational landscape is in constant change and as we work through the next
decade, we can see an even more rich and vibrant learning offer being made available
to students. QEHS is pleased to be at the leading edge of this development through the
local area 14-19 partnership.
Here, we have already seen considerable development with the introduction of new
learning opportunities for every student in the Gainsborough area. This shared provision
allows the school further access to
high standard facilities and staff.
Gainsborough can show others
the way and QEHS will be at the
forefront of this development.
Queen Elizabeth’s High SchoolG a i n s b o r o u g h
“Children are encouraged to be inde-
pendent, freethinkers. The staff are en-
thusiastic and dedicated. Overall, my
child receives an excellent education”
NFER Parental Survey Nov 2012
Pastoral care, welfare and well-being of students - The House System
The pastoral system at QEHS is based on a vertical House system, comprising six Houses named after famous Britons: Austen,
Brunel, Churchill, Darwin, Elgar and Scott. The six Houses consist of one tutor group from each of the Years 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
and 13.
Our aim is to create an enjoyable and effective small school ethos
within what is a large institution, and to strengthen the focus of staff in
their pastoral roles upon the general welfare and academic progress
of each student. Heads of House and House Tutors, who are the first
point of contact for parents, are responsive to students’ individual
needs, and look to strengthen and improve communication and
partnership with parents.
Each House has a unique and particular identity. As well as the pastoral
guidance and management role, the House system is also the
framework to encourage participation and competition in a wide range
of activities including Sports, Drama, Art, Music, and Public Speaking.
The House events therefore emphasise our commitment to a broad
education and give a wide range of students the opportunity to
participate in representative competitions, and take on positions of
responsibility.
The Student Council
The Student Council is made up of a democratically elected group of students who represent their peers. It enables students to
become partners in their own education, and make a positive contribution to the school environment, ethos and the whole school
experience. The success of the Student Council is dependent upon
the participation and support of students of all ages and we openly
encourage and embrace the student voice.
Regular meetings of the Student Council provide opportunities for
students to raise issues and express views concerning their life in
school. They can share and exchange ideas with other students and
staff, and they can involve themselves in how the school is run.
Thus, students are provided with the experiences of creating new
initiatives, solving problems and achieving their goals, whether it is
planning and managing new garden areas, being involved in establishing healthy food choices, or more formally contributing to
the strategic oversight and development of the school by being, for example, an Associate Governor. The opportunities are endless,
both within school and within the wider community, where involvement in the West Lindsey Youth Assembly or Lincolnshire Youth
Parliament is a very realistic possibility.
Queen Elizabeth’s High SchoolG a i n s b o r o u g h
“Gifted and talented students
achieve well, with many
successfully achieving
qualifications earlier than
their peers” Ofsted 2008
“The way that highly academic children can
achieve their potential without feeling any
peer pressure. “It’s cool to be clever”.
NFER Parental Survey Nov 2012
Queen Elizabeth’s High SchoolG a i n s b o r o u g h
Learning Support
The Learning Support Department has the responsibility of ensuring that all the students at QEHS can participate fully in any learning
opportunity, make appropriate progress and fulfil their potential. It emphasises the statutory entitlement of students with additional
learning needs to be included as full participants in the academic, pastoral and social life of the school.
The school currently offers support to a wide range of special
educational needs, including those of students with exceptional ability.
We have students on roll that have moderate learning difficulties,
impaired hearing, autism and students with physical disabilities.
The majority of the site is single storey and has good wheel-chair access with appropriate ramps in place.
At QEHS, we identify our gifted, talented and able pupils as early as possible. We aim to provide enrichment across the curriculum
for the students. This is achieved through faculties and departments. Opportunities for students beyond the classroom, both in
school and through outside providers, are available. There are also additional activities arranged for these students throughout the
school calendar.
There is a team of teaching assistants available to support students on an individual basis or within a classroom setting. This is
dependent upon the needs of the student. At Queen Elizabeth’s, we feel it is important to establish a positive partnership between
home and school. The SENCO will therefore meet regularly with students and parents, drawing up mutually agreed Education
Plans.
School Counselling Service
At QEHS we recognise that good emotional health is essential in providing a basis which allows students to achieve academically.
The School Counselling Service is available to all students and provides a place to explore ideas, using creative strategies to come
to terms with any issues an individual student may be facing. It empowers the student, builds confidence and boosts self-esteem.
It also provides support through transitional periods and through adolescent stages. Relaxation techniques and assistance with
managing exam conditions are also provided through creative techniques and the use of music.
QEHS also provides, through the Counselling Service, a Peer Listening Service. This service is provided by Year 11, 12 and 13
students and is widely used, both as a one-to-one listening service and for class/group work.
PTA
Life at school is supported by an enthusiastic Parent Teacher Association (PTA). The PTA organises a variety of social and fundraising
events and supports many of the musical and theatrical productions staged by the pupils.
Over the last few years, PTA activities have included summer BBQs, quiz nights and talent shows, all of which bring together the
varied groups within the school and wider community. Whilst the transition to senior school often means greater independence
for pupils, some parents do miss the friendship and interaction of the primary school playground. PTA events at QEHS provide a
great opportunity for parents to get to know each other, and our members of staff, in a relaxed, friendly and sociable environment.
Fundraising is an important part of the work of the PTA, but equally important is that the members and visitors to our events have
a good time!
Funds raised by the PTA are hugely valuable to the school in helping to provide the ‘added extras’ which might otherwise be
unobtainable but which do enhance the school and learning environment. In the last two years, funds have been directed towards:
• Development of a covered outdoor planted courtyard, for student use and special events.
• Upgrading of sound equipment in both school halls
• Provision of new curtains to transform the main school hall
Whilst we have a thriving and active PTA committee, they always welcome new members and would be delighted to see any new
parents at their meetings. Minutes of PTA meetings can be found on the school website and the PTA Annual General Meeting is
held every September.
“This is an outstanding school
with many strengths” Ofsted 2008
Queen Elizabeth’s High SchoolG a i n s b o r o u g h
Extended Schools Provision
We offer a range of extended schools activities, some of which are organised by ourselves and others where we access
additional opportunities for our students. These include such things as:
• After-school access to our Extended Learning Centre and Library
• Off-site support to families, and students who are in care or are persistent absentees
• A range of after-school sports fixtures, music activities and concerts, drama and a very wide range of learning-based
trips which extend beyond school hours, including trips locally, nationally and abroad
• Outside timetabled hours access to revision classes in a wide range of subjects
We also work through several Partnerships to enhance what we do. These include working closely with The Gainsborough
Extended Provision Cluster.
“The curriculum is excellent and helps
students reach very high standards in
most subjects” Ofsted 2008
Queen Elizabeth’s High SchoolG a i n s b o r o u g h
Assessment, reporting and examinations
We are proud of the fact that students and teachers working together are able to meet the challenging targets for academic
achievement that we set for our students at QEHS. Targets are set at the start of each Key Stage and are reviewed regularly by
individual teachers. Assessment is carried out at every level, from quizzes and tests in lessons, to frequent cross-year ‘common
assessments’ carried out in every subject and the more formal end of year exams. The progress and engagement of every student
is monitored closely by subject teachers and Department Heads, Tutors and Heads of House. Support and intervention strategies
are used to challenge and guide students of all abilities.
Parents are able to view their child’s performance and engagement grades at any time
via an internet portal which gives real-time information. Parents will also receive
an annual report and summary
mark-sheet for their child. The school
sees the support of parents and
carers as a vital component of a
student’s success, and we welcome
continuous communication.
Students at the school sit a huge
variety of external examinations.
Although most can still expect to sit up to 13 GCSE examinations in the summer of Year
11, some students may sit GCSE examinations from Year 9 upwards. We believe students
should sit exams in courses that offer sufficient stretch and challenge for them. For this
reason, you will find that for some students in some subject areas, AIS and iGCSE exams
are done in KS4 alongside more traditional GCSEs.
A Message from the Chair of Governors
As a selective school we have high academic aspirations for all our students. It is by providing outstanding teaching from dedicated
teachers in a conducive and stimulating environment, that we aim to inspire each child to achieve their full potential.
The ‘ethos’ of a school is much talked about but hard to define in words. At QEHS, it is best experienced by just being in school
where you can observe students showing respect to others, respect for their environment and respect for themselves.
As Governors, in our role as ‘critical friend’, we try to ensure all decisions we take are based on further improving the life chances
of all our students, so when they leave as young adults, they are fully prepared to go on to personal success and to play a positive
role in society.
“Students' personal
development is excellent”Ofsted 2008
Queen Elizabeth’s High SchoolG a i n s b o r o u g h
Queen Elizabeth’s High SchoolG a i n s b o r o u g h
Morton Terrace, Gainsborough, Lincolnshire. DN21 2ST
Tel: 01427 612354 Fax: 01427 612856
www.qehs.lincs.sch.uk Email: [email protected]
Headteacher: Mr David Allsop BA(Hons) MSc NPQH
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