YEAR 6 OPEN EVENING 2016

Dear Parents and Year 6 students,

Welcome to our Year 6 Open Evening. I hope that you will find it both interesting and

helpful.

In the pages that follow you will find information from each subject area. If you have any

queries about particular subjects please ask the staff concerned as you visit each

department.

The evening itself will consist of a brief presentation about the academy followed by tours

and time to look around. The presentations will take place at 5.15pm, 6.00pm and 6.30pm,

so that if you prefer you can look around the academy first and then go to a presentation. If

you feel you would like to have another look we can also arrange for you to come round

during the academy day.

Senior members of staff are available to deal with any queries you may have.

I hope you have an enjoyable evening.

Yours sincerely,

J. Johnson Principal and Chief Executive

ART

The art department consists of three art teachers:

Nicola McMullen, Head of Art and specialist in Fine Art and master in Photography.

Teaches all key stages.

Cherie Illingworth, specialist in Fine Art. Teaches all key stages.

Rachel West, specialist in Interior Architecture. Teaches all key stages.

At Key Stage three Yr7 students currently

receive two periods per week of art. Yr8

currently receive one period per week of

art. During this two year stage we deliver

six projects including ceramics, graphics,

photography, painting and drawing and

sculpture. For each project the students

learn to research and compose a

sketchbook focusing on learnt skills and

developing skills. Students become

familiar with critiquing their own work and

the work of others. We promote an

emotionally intelligent response to

constructive criticism and encourage and

build on the students desire to improve.

The department offers two

GCSEs: Art & Design

GCSE and Photography

GCSE. Both courses are

run over three years for two

periods a week.

Students complete two

research projects and one

exam.

At all key stages the emphasis is

on looking. Learning to

understand the shapes in front you

in order to interpret them on paper.

Students become able to dissect

the image of the world in front

them to recreate it in any form, in

a variety of media and disciplines.

The department offer two AS Levels: Art, Craft and Design and Fine Art and A Levels

according to students own area of expertise.

Our focus for sixth form students is to ensure they get to where they want to be. We ensure

that all students are supported in their university applications and that they have tutorials and

one to one teaching in preparation for composing a portfolio and interview technique.

Our students are currently studying at universities all over the UK in a wide variety of courses

and disciplines from; Fine Art to Fashion, Computer Game Design, Make Up and Prosthetic

Make Up, Photography, Textile Design, TV and Film Production and Architecture.

100% of our A Level students have secured the university place of their choice.

ENGLISH

Head of Department – Miss Relph

What do pupils study in English? In Year 7, students develop their reading, writing, speaking and listening skills through a range of core units which cover many different types of text including poetry, drama, non-fiction and fiction. Year 7 students begin the year with an exciting unit on writing their own detective or spy fiction story! When studying a writing unit such as this, pupils will have a ‘Big Write’ lesson once a week, in which they will plan, write and edit their own extended piece of writing. How are students assessed? Student progress is continually assessed across the three core skills of reading, writing and speaking & listening. This is monitored day to day during lessons and also through book marking which happens every two weeks. Formally graded assessments are carried out at the end of each half term and you will be informed of the levels that your child achieves through the Academy Updates system.

How are students supported to achieve their potential? English classes are grouped according to pupils’ ability and extra support is available for those who have weak literacy skills or need further help with reading. Classes are not numbered like traditional ‘sets’ but are named according to the GCSE target grades of the pupils. In every classroom, English teachers provide learning to stretch and challenge every pupil, while supporting them along the way. In their first year, students are introduced to the resources in the library and initiated onto the Accelerated Reading Scheme which encourages students to read for pleasure and to take ownership of their progress in this fundamentally important skill. We are proud to be a Renaissance Learning Champion School for Accelerated Reader and reading for pleasure is promoted throughout the academy!

What other opportunities are there for students in English? The English department runs a number of extra-curricular activities for Key Stage 3 students including trips and visiting speakers. Students also have the option of joining one of the termly reading clubs and contributing to the Carnegie Children’s Literature Award Shadowing Group. They could also join the Creative Writing Club or write for the Academy newspaper. How can parents support students at home? An important way that you can help your child is by encouraging them to read books, magazines and newspapers at home. Once they are in Year 7, they will often be set reading homework. Additionally, at the start of each term, parents will receive a letter from their child’s English teacher which will explain the areas of the curriculum which will be covered that term and will offer a list of ways to be involved in learning at home.

GEOGRAPHY

Head of Department - Mr Thompson

What do pupils study in Geography?

Geography is about places. We study the characteristics of different places from Egremont

to the Amazon Rainforest. Pupils learn about the natural ‘physical’ geography that has

shaped the earth, climate, geology, ecosystems, rivers and erosion all change the earth.

Pupils also learn about how people use and change the earth, building cities, migration,

farming, generating energy and using resources. There are many examples where physical

and human geography overlap and affect each other. Pupils will learn about how hazards

affect people, for example volcanoes and earthquakes and flooding. Also how people affect

the planet by pollution and global warming and also what people are doing about these

problems.

How are students assessed?

In Geography the core elements that are assessed throughout the year are.

Geographical knowledge of places.

Understanding of the processes that change the world. (what causes volcanoes)

Interpreting a wide range of sources from satellite images and maps to graphs.

Developing investigation skills, investigate questions and present and communicate

the results. This will involve out of class fieldwork.

You will have Geography lessons twice a week. You will use maps, photos, computers and

videos, as well as books to learn from. You will also go on fieldtrips.

GEOGRAPHY – IT MAKES YOU THINK!

PARENTS’ INFORMATION

We live in ‘The Information Age’ and Geography is no longer mainly about the capital of New

Zealand, the longest river in China or the population of India. In Geography we aim to teach

thinking skills so that students can research and collect information, analyse it and use it to

make informed judgements and decisions (but of course they also learn rivers and capitals

and populations while they’re doing this!). These skills are very useful in other subjects too,

not to mention the world of work.

Geography provides a wealth of opportunities for developing literacy, numeracy, citizenship,

SMSC and ICT skills, and as a department these are at the forefront of our plans for the future.

Assessment is another major focus of our work. However, we don’t use assessment just to

measure progress. We use a range of assessment styles to enable all students to demonstrate

the progress they have made, and to provide staff with the information that is needed to

effectively plan future learning.

Please ask us about Geography lessons, resources, assessments and fieldtrips. We aim to

encourage students to become independent learners, with enquiring minds, who are aware of

their environment (both natural and human), and aware that they belong to a global

community. If they also learn about America’s highest mountain or the capital of Mongolia –

even better!

Blue Marble

The earth you live on is a

unique and beautiful

place.

Geography will teach you

about many different

places, why they are

important and how people

can affect them.

HISTORY

Head of Department – Ms Fletcher

WHAT WE TEACH IN HISTORY

Key Stage 3

Students will be studying an enquiry and project based learning scheme in Key Stage 3 where

they will be expected to take ownership and responsibility for their learning. Students will be

posed demanding questions where they will be asked to independently discover the answers.

Year 7

The Year 7 scheme of learning will be split into 6 half term enquiries/projects. The titles are;

‘Being a historian’, ‘Being British’, ‘Being curious’, Going to London’, ‘Going abroad’ and ‘Going

forward’. For example; the ‘Being a historian’ topic will focus on the main skills of a historian

whilst studying the most significant days in history (Days that shook the world). These topic

areas will not only allow the Year 7 students to have the opportunity to learn about engaging

and rigorous events in History but will also help them continue their development of cross-

curricular learning skills.

Year 8

The Year 8 Scheme of learning will follow the same process as the Year 7 scheme. A

combination of Historical events, concepts and skills will be promoted, along with a focus on

independent learning through rigorous enquiries. The titles of the topics are; ‘Investigating

history’, ‘Presenting history’, Marketing history, ‘’Challenging history’, ‘Making history’ and

‘Changing history’. For example; the ‘Investigating History’ topic will focus on the enquiry ‘Who

murdered Polly Nicholls?’ The students will conduct a full police investigation on the case by

analysing numerous pieces of evidence.

GCSE History

At GCSE students study a British and non-British Depth Study, a Period Study

and a Historical Investigation. Subjects on offer include medicine through time,

the rise of the Nazi Party, the Cold War or the American West and the Norman

Conquest. We also explore conditions in the trenches during WW1.

AQA, AS Level: Industrialisation and the People 1783 to 1833 and the Cold War 1945 to 1963 AQA, A2 Level: - The 2 units from AS level are continued and extended. Students also undertake a historical enquiry chosen independently by candidates.

WHAT IS HISTORY ABOUT?

History helps us to understand the world in which we live.

It encourages us to ask questions and reach conclusions.

History encourages us to find evidence to back up

our ideas

History is about people—rich and poor, events which have shaped our world and will challenge us in the future.

The use of ICT is very useful and very much encouraged.

History is about literacy.

It helps us to develop our reading and writing skills. Numeracy skills are encouraged through using

graphs, scale drawings etc.

History is about citizenship. It helps us to consider our role in society

and encourages us to be tolerant and open-minded.

DID YOU KNOW?

William the Conqueror’s body was too big for his coffin.

It had to be stuffed into it…… unfortunately it had rotted

so much that it split open

The body of King Richard the Lionheart was buried at Fontevrault, near his father..

but his heart was buried at Rouen

The uncle of King Edward VI bribed him with pocket money

Queen Elizabeth’s nephew invented the flushing toilet for her

Fighting, punching opponents and gouging their eyes was banned in football in 1863

Scott’s trip to the Antarctic in 1910was sponsored by Oxo

During WW2 black cows were painted with white stripes…. due to the blackout car

headlights had to be masked and the stripes were to protect them

if they strayed onto the road at night

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Head of Department – Mr Crickmore

Where We Teach

IT is delivered in 1 hour a week in Years 7

and 8. It is taught in S2 on the top floor of

the academy. Interactive whiteboards and

easy access to a printer/scanner enhance

the provision. Each student has access to

a PC configured with the standard office applications and a carefully selected range of other

software with no requirement to share. Student iPads are used to provide additional access to

a wider variety of applications.

What We Teach

Starting with e-safety and file management, Year 7s then move on to

programming, both visual (Scratch) and textual (BASIC using iPads),

investigating the similarities and differences between the two

environments. They then look at graphics, website development and

spreadsheet use.

After an e-safety refresher Year 8s look at sound editing, animation and

more programming in both text and visual environments. Year 9s start their

Key Stage 4 course. This leads directly to our Sixth Form courses but we

don’t require everyone to have done IT in KS4 to be able to take it in the

Sixth Form.

Why We Teach IT

It is a fact that the many of students starting their secondary education will find a career in a

job that does not yet exist, using technology that has not yet been invented. IT develops the

skills needed to interact with technology and find new ways of using it. It gives the confidence

to try things out in addition to the basic skills needed to

use a modern computer and other digital devices. It

teaches the research skills and analytical skills that other

subjects rely on and it looks at real world applications of

these skills. It is the most relevant subject for young

people.

LEARNING SUPPORT

SENCo – Mr Woodcock

Some students may have difficulty with:

Reading

Writing

Concentration

Social Skills

Hearing Skills

Self-Confidence

Coping at Social Times

Co-ordination

Spelling

Numbers

Memory Skills

Communication

Visual Skills

Self-Esteem

Understanding

Mobility

We work to help these students

If your child is on the SEN Code of Practice at Primary School, or if you have

concerns come and let us know so we can begin planning for Phase Transition.

How do we help?

Learn 2 Learn course at Key Stage 4

Targeted Literacy Intervention

Student mentoring

Modifying the Curriculum

Social Skills development

Exam Access Arrangements

Alternative social time activities

We may be able to help you!

MATHEMATICS

Head of Department – Mr Moore

What do students study in KS3 maths?

We deliver the National Curriculum within the Framework for teaching mathematics at Key

Stage 3 which means that mathematics education for all students continues seamlessly from

KS2 to KS3. We have a strong focus on applying maths to problems to promote solid

understanding and develop these essential skills for their GCSE.

How do we assess students at KS3 in maths?

Each term the students will complete several tasks to determine how

secure their understanding of each topic is. This will vary according

to the topic but will give us an idea of how they are progressing. We

give all classes assessments half termly over the course of the year

and changes to classes occur as a result. The aim for all pupils is to

have a broad range of skills which they can use in different situations

to solve problems eventually leading to success at GCSE and in their

Key Stage 5 studies.

What is expected of our students outside of maths lessons to support their learning?

Homework is set on a weekly basis and accessed online. The aim of the homework is to both

consolidate the skills and knowledge they have obtained in lessons, provoke thought and

provide useful feedback to teachers. The support of parents in this work is very much

appreciated and can be a very positive enrichment to the learning taking place in classrooms.

Students will have access to a wide range of websites that they can access at home and use

to enhance their understanding of their classwork.

How do we support students in KS3 maths?

We run a wide range of activities within our curriculum to support those with lower numeracy

skills. These include timetabled numeracy lessons, numeracy sessions in tutor time lead by

our 6th formers and a catch up course.

For our higher attaining students we run the maths challenge each year.

All students are able to enter tutor competitions including Target 24, boggle and Sudoku

challenges.

MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES

Head of Department – Miss H McCrory

We believe language learning is fun and rewarding and that the ability to understand and

communicate in other languages is increasingly important in our society and in the global

economy. By studying a language at West Lakes Academy your child will develop confidence

and fluency in speaking and using the language for real purposes. Language learning also

enhances cultural awareness as well as helping students to have an improved understanding

of the grammar of their own language.

In Years 7 students have two lessons of French each week and in Year 8 some students also

pick up two lessons of Spanish. MFL lessons in Year 7 and 8 are grouped by ability to provide

appropriate support and challenge. We currently use Pearson’s Active Teach and Active Learn

as well as a wide range of games, activities and interactive resources.

The MFL Department gives students the opportunity to travel to in France in Year 8. We have

ran many successful visits to both Normandy, Paris and Berlin, Germany in the past. This year

we had a successful trip to PGL’s château du Tertre in Normandy. This year some Yr8 French

students also took part in a very successful penpal link with a secondary school in Nantes,

France. The majority of students at the Academy study a Modern Foreign Language at GCSE. Both

Spanish and French currently continue to be very popular, whilst German has been offered in

the past to take up as a GCSE. In Year 9, students choose the language that they enjoy the

most and study three hours a week as they begin preparation for GCSE. Students continue to be taught in sets according to ability throughout Key Stage 4 and enjoy

the many opportunities afforded to them to develop their linguistic and communication skills.

After completing a GCSE in French and Spanish, students are then able to continue studying

the language at A Level.

MUSIC

Head of Department – Mr Deal

Facilities

The department has one main classroom and four practice rooms. The main classroom is

equipped with 16 keyboards. In addition there are 16 acoustic guitars, a range of untuned

percussion, 20 laptops with Sibelius, Ableton and FL12 Studio software as well as 4 digital

pianos, 2 drum kits and electric and bass guitars.

The use of our portable recording studio is taught as part of the Post 16 A Level Music course

and is a vital part of GCSE and Key Stage 3 recordings.

Courses

At Key Stage 3 all students have one lesson per week of music. Performing, composing and

listening skills are taught. Students have the opportunity to learn keyboard in class from Year

7, as well as basic guitar which is introduced in Year 8, and have the opportunity to discover

and develop composition skills, as well as learning supporting theory and context.

At Key Stage 3 we aim to equip students to be able to pursue GCSE music at Key Stage 4

through the work that they do in class.

At Key Stage 4 the AQA GCSE syllabus is followed. This is a course in which the performing

and composing skills which were started in Key Stage 3 make up 80% of the grade. The

remaining 20% focuses on the listening and appraising of a wide variety of music which

students conclude in a 1 hour exam.

At Key Stage 5 students can follow the A-level music course. The units of work explore all

aspects of music from Pop, Rock, Classical and Jazz offering students the opportunity to use

Music Technology (Music Production), Music (Performing) and Music (Composing).

Instrumental Tuition

Tuition is offered directly through the Cumbria Music Service. At present tuition is offered on

violin, guitars, piano, keyboard, brass instruments, woodwind and voice.

Extra-Curricular Music

The music department contributes to a variety of performances throughout the year. Students

are encouraged to pursue their own interests at break and lunchtime with the support of the

department, and ensembles are developed which reflect the interests of students and the

performance opportunities which the school offers. e.g. a new Singing Group is being

organised for interested students as well as a concert band and a variety of smaller

ensembles.

We want as many students as possible to become involved in music at West Lakes.

PERFORMING ARTS

Head of Department – Mrs Jackson

Year 7 and 8: Drama

Students engage in a two year Key Stage 3 where they have one lesson of drama per week. Within

this lesson students learn about key drama techniques e.g. freeze-frame, direct addresses, hot-

seating, split scene and voices in the head.

They study a program centred around improvisation techniques and the use of scripted plays.

Work developed and created in Year 7 and 8 prepares students for the GCSE Drama course they

can opt for in Year 9.

Drama is a very physical, active and engaging subject that requires students to work effectively

alongside other people within a team environment. Sharing work through performance is an

essential requirement for the subject, but evaluating and responding to other people’s work in class

is also a requisite for successful development in this art form.

Year 9 and 10:

What you will study:

GCSE Drama is a new course, taught over three years. You will study 3 Components within the

GCSE course: Component 1 – Devising Theatre, assessment vis practical presentation, a

rehearsal log and a written evaluation of the performance (40%); Component 2 – Performing from

a Text (Moderation in front of a live audience) (20%) and Component 3 – Interpreting Theatre:

written exam using a set text and writing about a live performance seen during the course (40%).

In year 9 you will practice the three Components to gain a positive understanding of the structure

of the qualification and in Year 10 and 11 complete the ‘actual’ course.

Year 11: GCSE Performing Arts (This is the final year that this course runs)

What you will study:

GCSE Performing Arts is a Single Award qualification. You will gain a broad understanding of the

performing arts through engaging in more than one performing arts discipline e.g. drama, dance,

singing, costume and set designer, and marketing and publicity. You will study two units—Unit 1

Skills Development and Unit 2 Showcase Performance.

Performing is an important part of this course therefore you must be prepared to perform live in

front of an audience and the moderator during the practical exam. You will explore your own skills

and set targets on which areas you would like to ‘develop’ further. You will engage in a range of

performances where you can ‘develop’ these skills. You will keep a journal/log to identify and

evaluate how you have improved and developed.

Sixth Form

Level 3: BTEC EXTENDED CERTIFICATE IN PA

This course is taught over two years and is worth the equivalent of 1 A- Level pass. You can gain

a Pass, Merit, Distinction and Distinction*(A*-E) depending on the quality of your work.

You will do 4 units over the two years: Unit 1 – Investigating Practitioners Work is a core unit and

a written exam. The exam is sat over 3 hours and is an extended piece of written work. Students

can take 4 pages of A4 notes into the exam with them to help them. Unit 3 – Group performance

workshop is also a mandatory unit and performed live for a visiting moderator. The final core unit

is Unit 2 Developing skills and techniques for live performance. This unit is based on the work of

others and students perform live to an audience. The work is internally moderated and externally

verified. There is one final unit that students must complete and this is an optional unit of either

dance or drama, chosen by the student themselves.

On the course you will learn what it is like to work in the Performing Arts Industry, perform in front

of a live audience and work with professional companies. You will learn how to work closely as a

team, enriching both your performing and communication skills. Working in a creative environment

will enable you to express your ideas easily and with conviction.

As a performing arts student, you will learn the skills of performing through structured practical

lessons and evidence your development in a logbook.

E

Raise the roof for Prom! - Year 11 Variety Show to raise money for their Prom October 2016

Play on! Year 13 Drama Production December 2016

Rock Challenge—a dance and drama based production involving students from across the

academy. We have been a premier school for four years running and competed at the National

Final in Milton Keynes in July 2015. We will showcase in Carlisle (April 2017) and compete at

Grimsby (July 2017).

Enrichment Activities and Events

Physical Education

PE STAFF: MRS R. PURDHAM, MR. A. PRICE, MRS L. AMOR, MS L. KERR, MR

J.STUBBINGS, MRS A. LISTER

THE PE PROGRAMME This is based on a modular programme. The activity modules are 14/15 weeks in length. In Key Stage 4, Years 9/10/11 we offer a PE option programme along with BTEC PE that includes further activities. At Key Stage 5, the department now offers successful BTEC National Sport Level 3 courses. There are also further activities on offer in our after school sports clubs. YEAR 7 / 8 AND 9 PROGRAMME Each student participates in:

2 x 55 minute lessons per week

Gymnastics

Health Related Fitness

Hockey

Football

Netball

Athletics

Cricket/Rounders/Tennis Students are taught in single and mixed sex groups YEARS 10 AND 11 Each student participates in:

2 x 55 minute PE lessons per week At Key Stage 4, we offer an options programme where students choose the activity modules they want to do over a two year period from the following activities:

Aerobics Health Related Fitness Badminton Softball Rugby Climbing

Gymnastics Basketball Hockey Football Netball Cricket Athletics Rounders Volleyball

BTEC students follow a similar options pattern, assessed through coursework and practical elements. This course is worth the equivalent of up to 4 GCSE’s where students can gain a Pass, Merit or Distinction - equivalent to C grades and above. KEY STAGE 5 Students follow BTEC National Level 3 in Sport examination syllabus. Students are assessed in both practical and theoretical aspects within the course. EXTRA CURRICULAR

Netball, Football, Rugby, Fitness, Rounders, Athletics, Climbing KIT Each student must bring a complete change of kit in accordance with the school uniform policy. If kit is not brought, students will be issued with a school PE kit which must be worn. INDOOR KIT Polo Shirt - School Issue School shorts (black) School Socks and Trainers Outdoor Kit Polo Shirt - School Issue Option - School Shorts or Black Tracksuit (no markings) In cold/wet weather, students are permitted to wear a waterproof jacket. Staff will indicate footwear to be worn. All kit and expensive equipment should be named. JEWELLERY For Health and Safety, all jewellery must be removed. For newly pierced ears - students must provide a note and plasters. VALUABLES We have a safe holding place for small amounts of money and valuables.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

Head of Department – Ms Walter

What is covered in Personal Development? (PD)

In short, PD education can be described as 'learning to live life well'. PD deals with real life

social and economic issues affecting young people, their families and communities. It aims to

support young people to make safe and informed choices about their lifestyles, their health,

careers and their finances both now and as they prepare for the responsibilities of adulthood.

The subject has 3 main themes:

Health and Wellbeing

Relationships

Living in the Wider World

A planned programme of weekly PD lessons are delivered to Years 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11 by

subject specialist teachers. All are committed to supporting and enhancing the personal

development of our students. In PD teachers create an environment where students feel safe

to explore and reflect on personal issues. Lessons are active and participatory, much of our

work is discussion based.

Examples of schemes and events students partake in as part of their PD

curriculum

Personal Development reflects on some of the major ideas and challenges that face society

and have significance for individuals in the 21st century. These can provide unifying themes

to give learning relevance and help young people make sense of the world. These dimensions

cover - identity and cultural diversity, healthy lifestyles, community participation, enterprise,

sustainable futures and the global dimension,

technology and the media, the economy and critical

thinking.

Giving Nation Challenge Students become social entrepreneurs, fundraisers, campaigners and volunteers for charities and good causes. Using their skills, imagination and the help of their classmates, students develop mini-charity projects to reach out and benefit the wider community.

Bar Mock Trial Competition

Students battle out mock criminal trials in real crown

courts, gaining an insight into the workings of the legal

system.

Send All My Friends to School

Looking at human rights and how we can

support all children accessing education

Rock Enrol

A program introducing students to the

government and electoral process.

Sugar Shock

Part of our healthy lifestyles unit looking at the

impact of a healthy lifestyles and taking

individual responsibility for our health.

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION

Head of Department – Mr Walker

Religious education poses challenging questions about the ultimate meaning and

purpose of life, beliefs about God, the nature of reality, issues of right and wrong

and what it means to be human.

* It enhances students’ awareness and understanding of religions and beliefs, teachings,

practices and forms of expression, as well as of the influence of religion on individuals,

families, communities and cultures.

* RE encourages students to explore their own beliefs and questions of meaning.

* It challenges students to analyse and evaluate issues of truth, values, belief, faith and

ethics and to communicate their responses.

* It helps student to develop their sense of identity and belonging; to flourish

individually and as citizens in a pluralistic society and global community,

promoting inclusion and combating prejudice.

* RE helps prepare students for adult life, employment and lifelong learning by promoting

respect for and sensitivity to those whose beliefs are different from their own.

Taken from the Non-Statutory National Framework for Religious Education (QCA,

2004)

Out of those who took our full GCSE in Religious Studies in 2014/15, 94% of

them achieved Grade A*-C, with 44% of them getting either an A* or A.

WHAT WE TEACH IN RE

RE is a subject for students of all faiths and none at all.

Regardless of belief, creed or background, every student is encouraged to reflect

upon their values, concepts of identity and what it is to be a citizen of the world.

Year 7 Our new students will focus on the skills of learning about and from the 6 main religions:

Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism and Sikhism. One theme every half-

term is explored: Identity (Who we are and what makes us unique), Belonging (What it means

to be a faith community), Discovery (The life of Jesus), Commitment (Rites of Passage),

Celebration (Festivals) and Reflection (How does faith lead to action?).

Year 8 Students will expand upon their previous learning and tackle six new themes relating to the effect of religious and cultural action upon the world: Believing (Aspects of faith), Authority (being a good moral leader), Spirituality (what it is to experience the divine), Community (a critical look at modern Islam), Responsibility (what our role in the world is) and Enlightenment —a full 6-week project of the students’ own choosing. GCSE Religious Studies The 3-year course is composed of three challenging and engaging components: • Component 1: Religious, Philosophical and Ethical Studies in the Modern World (50% of qualification) • Component 2: Study of CHRISTIANITY (25% of qualification) • Component 3: Study of ISLAM (25% of qualification) Our students perform really well in examinations. Last time round, 50% of students taking GCSE RS achieved a Grade A* or A… and 95% achieved A*-C. We also provide an AS/A2 Religious Studies course to advance these enriching and engaging topics post-GCSE.

Which religions do each of these well-known figures

belong to?

ANSWERS in order… Jonny Wilkinson is BUDDHIST; Katy Perry is CHRISTIAN; Apu from The Simpsons is HINDU, Mo Farah is MUSLIM; Scarlett Johansson is JEWISH;

Monty Panesar is SIKH.

SCIENCE

Director of Science – Mr Hendren

What do pupils study in Science? In Year 7, students develop their practical skills and theoretical knowledge and understanding of science through a range of core units which cover topics across the three traditional disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics. Year 7 students begin the year by completing a unit of study which will form a basis for practical skill, including measuring, planning, safely using equipment and writing conclusions. This unit allows students to familiarise themselves with the wide variety of new, specialist equipment they will use and allows later study to focus on the content which will support transition to Key Stage 4. How are students assessed? Student progress is continually assessed across the three core areas of biology, chemistry and physics. This is monitored day to day during lessons and also through book marking which happens every two/three weeks. Formally graded assessments, in the format of written assessments, models, presentations, and practicals are carried out at various points within each topic. Students are also assessed formally by linear exams 4 times across the academic year. This allows students to prepare for the linear assessment model they will experience at Key Stage 4. Formal assessments are used to communicate progress home via the Academy updates system.

Topics of study in Year 7

Cells

Acids

Electricity and magnetism

Differences

Elements and compounds

Forces

The Science department benefits from many links with local employers which allows us to enhance the experience we can provide to our students both inside and outside our classrooms. Alongside the engaging and exciting lessons delivered by our team of teachers and technicians our department also offers a number of enrichment activities which include trips and visits to local businesses, inter school competitions and activity days.

Reproduction

Particles

Energy

Interactions &

Interdependencies

Chemical reactions

Space

Year 8

In Year 8 you will continue on to study the following topics to help prepare you for

Key Stage 4.

Digestion and

Respiration

Periodic table

Heating and cooling

Body systems

Materials

Light

Genetics and

Evolution

The Earth and Atmosphere

Forces

We hope that you will join us and enjoy using Science to explain the world around us.

Habitats and plants

Chemical reactions

Sound

DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY

We offer a rotational system for Year 7 and 8 students to experience as many technology

areas as feasible offering technological literacy for all.

ELECTRONICS

FOOD AND NUTRITION

Eating is such an essential part of everyday life

that people often forget how exciting it can be.

If people recognised food as a science, they

would honestly enjoy it so much more.

In food and nutrition students are given the

opportunity to research, plan and prepare

exciting and healthy recipes. Students cover a

range of different styles of food. From planning

food for a grand day out, to novelty cakes and

multi-cultural food.

At GCSE students dig deeper into the science

behind food preparation and nutrition such as

the gelatinization of certain foods such as eggs.

During Year 7 pupils are introduced to

electronic products and components. They

are taught how to analyse existing products

and recognise basic electronic components.

When manufacturing their product they will

consider health and safety when soldering in

order to design and make a Nerve Tester.

In Year 8 pupils use their prior understanding

of electronic systems in order to design and

make a speaker unit for their mobile phone.

They will learn about more complex

components and use CAD to design a

speaker holder which will be laser cut and

etched. Students will also complete a theory

booklet which follows the design process.

In Year 7 students are taught the fundamentals of food hygiene

and safety. Their first practical of preparing a fruit salad allows to

assess a student’s motor skills as well as their safety within the

kitchen environment.

In Year 8 students design and prepare food for ‘A grand day out’.

This unit allows for students to be creative with their food as well

as looking into food from around the world.

RESISTANT MATERIALS

TEXTILES

In Year 9, students begin their Key Stage 4 studies we currently offer GCSE options in food and

nutrition and Textiles as well as a Btec qualification in Engineering. We then offer Product Design

and Food Science and Nutrition at key stage 5.

During Year 7 pupils have the opportunity to explore and

discover about different elements of design, working to

restrictions and research the future of CAD/CAM as part of

their project. They design and manufacture Flower Pot or

Stationary Holder. They gain hands on experience with

designing through a range of graphic communication

techniques to develop their sketching skills, computer

aided design, use the 3D printer and use hand tools to

create the base.

In Year 8 pupils build upon the skills they’ve learnt in

Year 7. They create their own product restrictions,

explore different user needs and start to analyse the

world around them. During this product they create a

bespoke clock created around a theme of their choice

using a mixture of CAD/CAM on 2D design and the

laser cutter and explore different machinery such as

the scroll saw while manufacturing with acrylic.

In Textiles students learn about the four stages of the design process:

investigation, design and development, manufacturing and

evaluation. Students will also cover topics which allow them to

develop their technical knowledge as stated in the national

curriculum. Students are encouraged to think outside the box and to

be confident in their design and making skills.

In Year 7 students are introduced to the

sewing machine as well as learning

various hand sewing techniques such as

the applique stitch. Their learning is

focused around the design and

manufacture of a monster-themed

cushion, complete with a pocket for their

school iPad to fit in.

Year 8 students then progress onto more

advanced sewing skills, as well as

learning about the sublimation printing

process. They will design and make their

own personalised pencil case which they

can use for all of their school equipment.

GOVERNORS

1. Adrian Thompson, Sponsor Governor Sellafield Ltd (Chair)

2. Rick Wylie, Sponsor Governor, UCLan

3. Michelle Pearse, Sponsor Governor (Vice Chair)

4. Sue Armstrong, Sponsor Governor

5. Dan Bloomer, Sponsor Governor

6. Gillian Butterworth, Parent Governor

7. Susan Alderson, Parent Governor

8. David Southward, Local Authority Governor

9. Ian Curwen, Co-opted Governor

10. Nicole Nicholson, Co-opted Governor

11. Nichola Capstick, Staff Governor

12. Jonathan Johnson, Principal

Clerk to the Governing Body: Caroline Stevenson

Governors and the Clerk can be contacted via governors@westlakesacademy.org.uk

S15 S11 S10 S9 S8

S17 S18 S19 S20 S21 S22 S23 S24 S25 S26 S27

S28a S28b

S2a

S2b S2c

S1

SA LRA

SECOND FLOOR

Second Floor Activities

English - SA Try your hand at a range of English workshops ran by the

Sixth Form English Ambassadors.

ICT – S2 Take a look at current students’ work and a range of computer

software.

iPad Taster Session – S20

Mindfulness Information Room - S22

RE - S21 Take a look at current students’ work projects, artefacts and

learning resources.

History - S24 Meet the history team and take part in history challenges.

Personal Development - S26 Staff will be on hand to answer questions

and learning resources will also be on display.

Geography – S28B Meet geography staff and take part in geography

games and challenges.

FIRST FLOOR

F1 F1a

F3 F4

F5 F6 F8

F9a F9b

F9c

F9d F12 F13 F14 F15 F16 F17 F25

F21

F22

F24

FA LRA

First Floor Activities

Modern Foreign Languages - F4 Have a go at one of the

interactive MFL games on an academy iPad or whiteboard.

Maths - FA Challenge yourself with a range of maths activities and

try out the interactive white board.

Learning Support - F24 Here you will have the opportunity to

discuss individual students’ needs and provision. Activities and

resources will also be on display.

GROUND FLOOR

GA LRA GB LRA

G8 G7 G6 G5 G4

G33 G34 G35

G13

PE

G31a

G31b

G3a, G3b, G3c

G39b

G50 G40a

G40

b

G40c

G49

G48

G44

Main Entrance

Science - G3 Try your hand at a range of exciting practical activities.

Design Technology - G34 and G33 See our state of the art CAD/CAM software in action and watch current textiles students working on their projects.

Art - G40 Explore current students’ artwork and photography.

Performing Arts – G48 Watch current students perform scenes from a range of comedy sketches.

Music – Reception Listen to some of our talented students perform.

PE - Sports Hall/Gym Current students will be showcasing a range of

activities.

Presentation by the Principal

5.15pm, 6.00pm and 6.30pm– G49

Ground Floor Activities