Taylor High School

technology school of ambition

Contents NORTH LANARKSHIRE COUNCIL MISSION STATEMENT “AIMING HIGHER IN NORTH LANARKSHIRE” 3 FOREWORD BY J.G. MCCORMICK, HEAD TEACHER. 4 THE STORY BEHIND THE BADGE 5 SECTION 1: OUR PHILOSOPHY 6 SECTION 2: OUR AIMS 6 SECTION 3: OUR STANDARDS 7 SECTION 4: THE SERVICE WE PROVIDE 7 SECTION 5: RELIGIOUS EDUCATION 8 SECTION 6: SCHOOL PRAYER 9 SECTION 7: FIRST IMPRESSIONS 10 SECTION 8: KEY PROCESSES 11 SECTION 9: SCHOOL INFORMATION 12 SECTION 10: STAFF INFORMATION 13 SECTION 11: STAFF LIST 2010-2011 15 SECTION 12: THE SCHOOL DAY 16 SECTION 13: THE SCHOOL YEAR 16 SECTION 14: ENROLMENT 17 SECTION 15: PUPIL SUPPORT 18 SECTION 16: PUPIL SUPPORT STRUCTURE 19 SECTION 17: EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES 21 SECTION 18: PUPIL SUPPORT - SUPPORT FOR LEARNING 21 SECTION 19: LIBRARY RESOURCE CENTRE 24 SECTION 20: CURRICULUM ORGANISATION 24 SECTION 21: ASSESSMENT 31 SECTION 22: REPORTS TO PARENTS 32 SECTION 23: HOMEWORK 34 SECTION 24: DATA PROTECTION 36 SECTION 25: POSITIVE DISCIPLINE 38 SECTION 26: ACHIEVEMENTS 40 SECTION 27: EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES / OUT OF SCHOOL HOURS LEARNING 46 SECTION 28: HOME AND SCHOOL LINKS 73 SECTION 29: UNIFORM 78 SECTION 30: P.E. CODE OF PRACTICE 80 SECTION 31: MEALS 81 SECTION 32: TRANSPORT 82 SECTION 33: HEALTH AND MEDICAL CARE 84 SECTION 34: INFORMATION IN EMERGENCIES 86 SECTION 35: THE PARENT FORUM 87 SECTION 36: INFORMATION FOR PARENTS 88 SECTION 37: TRANSFORMATIONAL PLAN 105 SECTION 38: CONTACT WITH PARENTS 107 SECTION 39: ASSOCIATED PRIMARY SCHOOLS 109 SECTION 40: IMPORTANT ADDRESSES 110 SECTION 41: APPENDICES 112 SECTION 42 : GLOSSARY OF TERMS 114

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School Handbook 2011/2012

SCOTTISH CATHOLIC EDUCATION SERVICE

A CHARTER for CATHOLIC SCHOOLS in SCOTLAND The mission of the Catholic school is to develop as a community of faith and learning, providing the highest quality of education, and offering formation through the promotion of Gospel values, through celebration and worship, and through service to the common good . All Catholic schools in Scotland, in honouring Jesus Christ as the Way, the Truth and the Life, will feature the following characteristics: ✴ a commitment to the integrated education and formation of the whole person, in close partnership with parents as the first educators of their children; ✴ an inclusive ethos which aims to honour the life, dignity and voice of each person, made in the image of God; ✴

a commitment to the search for wisdom in life and to the pursuit of excellence, through the development of each person’s unique God-given talents;

✴ a commitment to the spiritual formation of the school community, through the shared experience of prayer and liturgy, and in partnership with local parishes; ✴

the provision of religious education programmes which will enable young people to develop their understanding of Gospel values and of how to apply them to life;

✴

a commitment to uphold the moral teaching, faith tradition and sacramental life of the Catholic Church;

✴

a commitment to communicate Catholic social teaching and thereby to promote social justice and opportunity for all;

✴

a commitment to ecumenical action and the unity of Christians;

✴

the promotion of respect for different beliefs and cultures and for inter-faith dialogue;

✴

a commitment to support the continuing professional and spiritual development of staff. All staff appointed to a Catholic school are expected to support and promote the aims, mission, values and ethos of the school, as illustrated in this Charter.

published by the Scottish Catholic Education Service on behalf of the Bishops’ Conference of Scotland

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Taylor High School

technology school of ambition

NORTH LANARKSHIRE COUNCIL MISSION STATEMENT - “AIMING HIGHER IN NORTH LANARKSHIRE” To offer education of the highest quality by: ✦

improving learning and teaching

✦

raising achievement and realising potential

✦

encouraging lifelong learning

✦

working with communities for a better future listening and learning together

✦

listening and learning together

✦

celebrating success

✦

respect the dignity and value of all

✦

giving pupils and staff a safe, happy and attractive place to work

Raising Achievement for All forms the overarching strategy for the service. Subtitled ‘Experiences to Last a Lifetime’, this strategy aims to harness the combined forces of Learning and Leisure Services to provide a rich set of learning opportunities and experiences for young people and adults which begin in the classroom, nursery or learning centre and extend out into the community and the wider world beyond. In seeking to offer ‘Experiences to Last a Lifetime’, we will also look to draw upon ‘a lifetime of experiences’ already there in the communities which make up North Lanarkshire.

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School Handbook 2011/2012

FOREWORD BY J.G. MCCORMICK, HEAD TEACHER. Welcome to Taylor High School. I hope this handbook provides all the information you need about the school: our aims, what we offer to our students, and what we expect of them in turn. Our school is a Catholic school which provides a wide range of experiences and opportunities to develop the faith and learning of our young people. Our most important aim is for them to develop into well-rounded young adults well prepared to move on to further or higher education, to training and employment and, ultimately, to fulfilling careers. Taylor is a school which accentuates the positive! From day one your child will have the opportunity to have success recognised, whether in relation to academic attainment, application, charitable works or a wide range of extra-curricular activities. We take pride in our sense of community and we hope that your child will quickly come to feel a part of this community. At the end of each academic year in June, the school celebrates success and recognises pupil achievements of all kinds which have occurred during the year. In making progress in learning, all pupils are supported by our well qualified, experienced staff both teaching and non-teaching. Staff wish, at all times, to work in close and active partnership with parents. The school has an active Parent Council which came into force in August 2007. Throughout the year, parents will have a number of opportunities to get involved in the life of our school community. I urge you to get involved in the education of your child. If you require further information, or, if you wish to discuss any aspect of this handbook, please contact me at the school.

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Taylor High School

technology school of ambition

THE STORY BEHIND THE BADGE In 1895 Monsignor Taylor was twenty two years old and studying for the priesthood in Paris. He always liked to dedicate the year ahead to some particular purpose and at the beginning of that year he wrote in his note-book the little French prayer: “Qu’elle soit pour Dieu” (Which means: ‘May it (the year ahead) be for God”. In other words Monsignor Taylor wished to dedicate all his efforts to the glory of God. Nearly 90 years later, in 1982, the pupils of Taylor High School were hard at work in the first term of the school’s existence designing a badge which would commemorate the life of our patron. One suggestion was that Monsignor Taylor’s prayer of all those years ago should be adapted as the school motto. What better idea could there be than that the pupils of Taylor High, like the Patron, should dedicate all their efforts in life to the glory of God. Thus our motto came into existence “Que tout soit pour Dieu” (May all things be for God). Along with the motto, of course, it was necessary to devise a suitable design. The pupils worked steadily on and eventually the ideas of three pupils, Lynn Kane, John Stewart and Margaret Morrissey were amalgamated to provide what is now the design of our school badge. The rose in the centre of the design reminds us of St Theresa of Lisieux, who was known as the Little Flower. The cross, of course, reminds us not only of the life of Monsignor Taylor but of Our Lord himself. The background, with its suggestion of the cooling towers of the giant Ravenscraig Steelworks, serves to remind us that it was in Carfin, in the heart of industrial Lanarkshire, that Monsignor Taylor worked for almost 50 years as a parish priest. It was in this unlikely spot too that he founded in 1922 the world famous Lourdes Grotto, Carfin, to which, to this day, thousands of pilgrims come each year. Finally, at the bottom of the badge you will see intertwined the letters T.H. the initial letters of Taylor High. Thus, when you wear the badge of Taylor High School you will be showing your pride in your area, your pride in your patron and your pride in your faith. Always remember that.

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School Handbook 2011/2012

SECTION 1: OUR PHILOSOPHY Taylor High School is a Roman Catholic comprehensive secondary school. As a Catholic school we are concerned to promote the two great Christian commandments: ✦ ✦

to love God. to respect our neighbours as ourselves.

It is for that reason that we have adopted as our motto the prayer of our patron Monsignor Thomas Taylor which he offered up in 1897, the year of his ordination to the priesthood.

“Que tout soit pour Dieu”. “May all things be for God”.

We are a comprehensive school in that, ✦ ✦

we welcome everyone who wishes to come here. we are committed to the education of the whole person - intellectual, social, physical, spiritual.

In the pages which follow we set out the aims, policies, plans and procedures which we have adopted in order to put into day to day practice the philosophy and the standards we have set for ourselves.

SECTION 2: OUR AIMS We seek a partnership among all staff, parents and pupils in order to offer an education of the highest quality. In particular we are determined to: ✦

provide a full range of courses and services. ✦ promote the highest quality of learning and teaching. ✦ encourage pupil progress in knowledge, skills and attitude. ✦ make the best use of available accommodation and resources,, ✦ recruit, manage and develop the highest quality of staff. ✦ develop clear policies and plans to guide all of our practices. ✦ establish and maintain a caring ethos and a sense of community within which all can give of their best.

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Taylor High School

technology school of ambition

SECTION 3: OUR STANDARDS In choosing to send their children to Taylor High School, we assume that parents will support us in our determination to maintain the following standards: ✦ high levels of attendance ✦ punctuality at all classes ✦ high levels of effort at all times ✦ high standards of behaviour ✦ a determination to succeed ✦ support for the school’s dress policy. In return, all staff (teaching and support) are committed to doing their very best to help all pupils achieve their full potential. In particular we shall have high expectations of our pupils in the belief that we shall encourage them to have greater self-esteem and greater confidence in what they can achieve.

SECTION 4: THE SERVICE WE PROVIDE The service which we provide and which is dealt with in more detail in the pages which follow, can be thought of as a curricular service and as a pastoral service. Our curricular service is concerned with such aspects as: ✦ breadth balance and choice of courses. ✦ continuity and progression of courses from stage to stage. ✦ the quality of teaching methods for all abilities. ✦ assessment and reporting arrangements. ✦ the quality of teaching materials, timetabling arrangements including class size and organisation and the use of classrooms and other available space. ✦ arrangements for national examination and tests. ✦ links with associated agencies such as the Quality Development Service (QDS). ✦ monitoring and evaluating the quality of overall curricular provision. Our pastoral service is concerned with such aspects as: ✦ the religious, spiritual and moral life of pupils. ✦ attendance, punctuality and behaviour of pupils. ✦ personal, vocational and careers guidance. ✦ learning support for all. ✦ equal rights. ✦ multi-cultural and anti-racist education ✦ home school community links. ✦ personal and social development programme links with associated agencies such as the careers and psychological services. ✦ links with industry and higher education. ✦ extra - curricular activities. ✦ monitoring and evaluating the quality of overall pastoral provision.

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School Handbook 2011/2012

SECTION 5: RELIGIOUS EDUCATION As a Catholic Comprehensive School religious education is of prime importance within the school along with the celebration of the liturgy. The Principal Teacher of Religious Education, Mr McMahon, assumes general responsibility for the designing of courses and the management of RE resources within the school. He is supported in this role by Father Campbell (School Chaplain) and the Head Teacher. All pupils receive two periods of Religious Education per week. Pupils are also encouraged to participate in the religious services which are available in the school. Father Campbell celebrates Mass regularly during the school year. Mass is offered every day during Lent and Advent. Several Masses are celebrated on Holydays of Obligation. The Sacrament of Reconciliation is also made available to pupils, as are the other services appropriate to the Church’s year. In addition, funds are raised for charity throughout the school year, and especially during the season of Lent. Groceries are collected during Advent by pupils and Christmas parcels are made up for the needy in the local area. The Religious Education programme includes not only seeking knowledge and understanding, but also facilitates the change of spiritual growth, through activities. Each stage has a programme which enables pupils to open themselves to a new experience. It is recognised that the Education Act allows parents to withdraw their children from any instruction.

Taylor High School

Parents/guardians from ethnic minority religious communities may request that their children be permitted to be absent from school in order to celebrate recognised religious events. Only written requests detailing the proposed arrangements will be considered. Appropriate requests will be granted on not more than three occasions in any one school session and the pupil noted as an authorised absentee in the register. Provision is made during Ramadan and Friday religious observance for our Muslim pupils.

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Taylor High School

technology school of ambition

SECTION 6: SCHOOL PRAYER During session 2001-02 the school’s Pastoral Group worked with staff, pupils and parents to develop a school prayer for Taylor High. The group was chaired by the late Principal Teacher of Religious Education, Ms. Traynor and showed great sensitivity in carrying out the task of developing a little piece of Taylor history. The prayer starts as a testament to Ms. Traynor who is much missed by all at Taylor. The task initially involved developing a brief for the prayer and it was agreed early on that reference should be made to the school motto ‘May all things be for God’. A competition was then held which invited pupils from all stages to submit prayers for consideration by members of the Pastoral Group. A short list was drawn up which included a wide range of ideas. The group then developed these into a smaller number of possible prayers which were published to staff, pupils and parents for consideration. A consensus was finally reached which involved a merging of ideas from the final three prayers into the prayer we now know as our own. Thanks go to all who put ideas forward, worked on drafts and gave of their time to produce the final prayer. Two former pupils must be given a special mention - Amy Boyle and Colette Davidson. The prayer, in its final form, encapsulates the ideas put forward by Amy and Colette in their original drafts. Taylor High School Prayer God Our Father Guide us through each day Give us the strength to do Your will Help us to work together To serve our school, our home and our parish Give us the Gift of Faith to live our school motto ‘Que tout soit pour Dieu’ We ask this through Christ Our Lord Amen

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School Handbook 2011/2012

SECTION 7: FIRST IMPRESSIONS When pupils transfer from Primary 7 into First Year in Secondary, they all have a story to tell. Below we provide just a few first impressions from our present First Year of their first few months at Taylor…

but very ry excited ool h I was ve ig y High Sch H jo r lo en y I came to Ta . Teresa’s Primary. bjects st su fir te I ri u en Wh y favo to St o. I went friends. M first few months at nervous to e made lots of new my d ye jo en av h lly because I I have rea d English. are Art an h School! girl Taylor Hig First Year

Before I cam e here I was afraid of mov in Cathedral ing away fro Primary. Bu m my friends t no to be scared of. You’ve go w I have realised there is nothing t buddies who school. You take you arou make new fr iends but still nd the have family to have help you thro ugh High Scho old friends. You also understandin g are the best ol. Knowledg weapons agai e and nst fear! First Year girl

n Whe r I was lo y a e any ry. e to T idn’t hav ng Prima d m a c i d I an K I r e e e ett cas st th us in ded Chri l it gets b avourite o v r e f o n n I atte igh Scho ore. My e lots of H ds. frien u are at us any m will mak ared! sc n yo so nervo T. You e h ’t be W not nd IC e so don e a r a E P om you cts are you c subje ds when n frie r boy t yea Firs

I’m from Our Lady & St. Francis. When I came to Taylor I was quite nervous but I was also excited bec ause you get to meet lots of different people. But now I’m really enjoying it. I have made lots of friends and my favourite subject s are Technical and Science. First Year boy

I used y . Mary’s Primar St nd te s at to up on my visit g in m co as w I n he fit in W ld . ou ol w I Scho t think that ous. I did no time goes e th ... it. ve I was very nerv lo here I me now that I am English and Ho very well, but bjects are PE, su well ite so ur g vo in fa do y pals and I am by so fast. M of ts lo e ad m have Economics. I just fine. you will fit in and I am sure First Year girl

n I Whe school aid. I fr s i a lots h to t t a bit made Home . e r m u e Art, I ca cited b sM hav . I cts are acher i x s e ’ k y c tri ver te te ubje was m St. Pa urite s favouri o o v y r f a f M e cam ds. My Maths. ien s and r f f boy o ic Year nom irst Eco ty. F Har

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Taylor High School

technology school of ambition

SECTION 8: KEY PROCESSES Development Planning – Transformational Plan Each session we look at various aspects of the service we provide and in discussion with staff, pupils and parents we look at the improvements we can make within the resources available to us. Plans are then drawn up to guide the actions we propose to take so that these improvements can be made. Details are made available to the Parent Council and are available to any parent on request. The current three year outline plan is appended to this handbook. The school completed its stint as a Technology School of Ambition in March 2010. Additional funding from North Lanarkshire Council has been granted as part of its exit strategy. Continuous Professional Development We take the view that the quality of staff is the single greatest influence on pupil learning. Accordingly we are determined to: ✦

recruit the best staff available.

✦

provide them with support and development opportunities.

✦

involve them fully in drawing up and putting into practice school policies. In return, staff are expected to do their best for all pupils at all times.

Devolved School Management Local authority policy is to give headteachers and their staff greater control over the school’s budget. This means that the headteacher, in discussion with staff, can to a certain extent redirect any savings to areas of need. Again, the School Board is kept up-to-date on details.

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School Handbook 2011/2012

SECTION 9: SCHOOL INFORMATION

Taylor High School Carfin Street New Stevenston Motherwell ML1 4JP



Telephone: Fax: e-mail:

Year 2010 Roll

(01698) 352590 (01698) 833086 [email protected] 6th Year 5th Year 4th Year

77 111 122

3rd Year 2nd Year 1st Year

133 118 145

NUMBER FROM PRIMARIES

Present P.7 134 Projected P.7 126 Projected P.7 155

August 2011 August 2012 August 2013

ACCOMMODATION AND FACILITIES Opened in 1982, Taylor High is a six year co-educational Catholic comprehensive school with a maximum capacity of around 950. It has many attractive facilities including five computer suites, a range of well resourced classrooms, a central cafeteria/social area, two large gymnasia, a spacious games hall, a well-furnished library/resource centre and a well-equipped theatre with seating for 250. The school also has ramps, special toilet facilities and a lift for disabled pupils. Outdoor Facilities Within the school grounds there is a new all weather sports facility comprising tennis courts/hockey pitch/3 7-a-side football pitches/1 full-size grass football pitch and an athletics track. The yard also includes an all-weather netball court. Community Facilities and Letting It is council policy that the school facilities summarised on this page should be made available for use by the community outwith school hours. Such use will be in accordance with approved letting procedures. Enquiries to: 1. Area Community Office (BelIshill 844607) 2. Area Office, Wishaw (Wishaw 374679)

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Taylor High School

technology school of ambition

SECTION 10: STAFF INFORMATION The management structure in secondary schools is quite complex and teachers can have many different roles. We hope that the following brief explanation of titles and duties will be helpful. Mr J McCormick Miss N Daley Head Teacher Depute Head

Mrs S Devlin Depute Head

Mrs F Seggie Mrs T Weir Depute Head Depute Head

The above comprise the Senior Management Team which has the responsibility to put into practice authority and school policies. In particular, the Depute Head Teachers assist the Head Teacher in taking final responsibility in the following areas. (a) The Curriculum

subject content and teaching methods.

(b) Assessment Procedures

including policies on continuous assessment and the organisation of school examinations.

(c) Internal Organisation

timetabling, accommodation, deployment of staff

(d) Communications

with Education Headquarters, the Scottish Executive Education Department, Scottish Qualifications Authority etc.

(e) Outside Agencies

with local primary schools; Further Education Colleges; Universities; Supporting Agencies such as schools’ Psychological Services etc.

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School Handbook 2011/2012

Above all, they assist the Head Teacher in promoting the personal development of pupils. To this end, some Depute Head Teachers have responsibility for particular year groups. In session 2010/2011 these responsibilities are allocated as follows:

First Year Second Year



Third Year Fourth Year

Mrs T Weir Miss N Daley

Fifth Year } Sixth Year

Mrs F Seggie

}

Mrs S Devlin

Each Depute Head Teacher has the responsibility for the personal development of the pupils in his/her year group and is assisted in this task by a team consisting of Pupil Support teachers and appropriate Registration Teachers. PARENTS CONTACTING THE SCHOOL ABOUT ANY MATTER CONCERNING THEIR CHILD’S EDUCATION SHOULD ASK FOR THE RELEVANT PUPIL SUPPORT TEACHER IN THE FIRST INSTANCE. THE PUPIL SUPPORT TEACHER WILL ORGANISE ANY OTHER INTERVIEWS THE PARENT MAY WISH TO HAVE. The total number of teaching staff employed in Taylor High School in 2010/2011 is 59.

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Taylor High School

technology school of ambition

SECTION 11: STAFF LIST 2010-2011 Mr J. G McCormick, HT Fr K Campbell (School Chaplain) ART Mrs J Broughan, PTC Mrs H Hughes, PTBS Mrs P Bradshaw (0.5 FTE*) Mrs K Devlin (0.5 FTE*) BIOLOGY Mrs M Colgan, PTC Mrs A O’Donnell, PTPS Mrs M J McFarlane (0.5FTE*) Ms K A Dallas (0.5FTE*) Ms K Byrne (0.5FTE) Mr I Lochhead** BUSINESS & COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY Mr D Lewis, PTC Mr A Heron Mrs A McGowan Ms A M Ross CHEMISTRY Mrs C Brown, PTC Ms A Lennon Ms K Byrne (0.5FTE) ENGLISH Mrs C Convery, PTC Mrs T Weir, DHT Mr J Adamson Mrs A Rooney Mrs H McCluskey Ms M Begley Mrs M J Burton GEOGRAPHY Mr L O’Hare, Acting PTC Mrs F Seggie, DHT Mrs C Bowes (0.3 FTE) HISTORY/MODERN STUDIES Mr A McPake, APTC Mrs L McGraw, PTPS Mr C Smyth HOME ECONOMICS Mrs L Holmes, PTC Ms L Hamilton Ms S Martin** LEARNING SUPPORT Mrs A Robertson, PTC Mr David McKendrick TT

MATHEMATICS Mr M Dorris, PTC Ms N Daley, DHT Mrs S Devlin, DHT Mr D Anderson Mr J Harty Mr J Mullen Mr E Rooney Mrs E Bergen

TECHNICIANS Mr R Stewart (Senior - Science) Mr B Murphy (Science) Mr J McCaig (ICT) Mr J McGinness (Technical)

MODERN LANGUAGES Mrs L Kerr PTC Mrs H McStay, PTPS Mrs A Carton Mrs H Miller (0.4 FTE*) Mrs K Henderson (0.6FTE*) MUSIC Ms F Cannon, PTC Ms S Evans Mr J McLaughlin

JANITORIAL STAFF Mrs L Miller, Senior Janitor Mr E Brannan Mr J Jeffrey

PHYSICAL EDUCATION Ms P Rooney, PTC Mr G McQuaid, PTPS Mrs M McGraw Mr J Roy PHYSICS Mr H Mallon, PTC (0.6 FTE) Mr C Phairs, PTPS Mrs S Russell RELIGIOUS EDUCATION Mr M McMahon, PTC Mrs A Ogilvie PTLFL TECHNICAL Mr M Murphy, PTC Mr K McCaig, PTLTS Mr J McDonagh ADMIN STAFF Mrs J Lawrie, AFA Mrs M Johnston, AA Mrs J Findlay, CA Mrs L Andrew, CA (TT) Mrs A Hamilton, CA (TT) Mrs A Lawlor, CA (TT) Mrs B Lynch, CA (TT) Mrs P Mitchell, CA (TT) Mrs A Fairley, CA (TT) LIBRARIAN Ms A Dougan

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HOME/SCHOOL PARTNERSHIP OFFICER Mr I MacFarlane

SUPPORT STAFF Mr A Brown, Classroom Assistant Mrs M Dickson, Classroom Assistant Mrs R Blair, ASN Assistant Mrs A M Carrigan, ASN Assistant Mrs M Findlay, ASN Assistant Ms L McCabe, ASN Assistant Mrs C McLaughlin, ASN Assistant Mrs E Murray, ASN Assistant CLEANING SUPERVISORS Mrs E Harper/Mrs. A. Smith MUSIC INSTRUCTORS Mrs E Anderson (Woodwind) Mrs A Paterson (Brass) Ms S Murray (Strings) Mr J Scott Jnr. (Percussion) Mr J Scott Snr. (Keyboards) Mr W Young (Guitar) KEY: HT - Head Teacher DHT - Depute Head Teacher PTC - Principal Teacher Curriculum PTPS - Principal Teacher Pupil Support PTLTS – Principal Teacher of Learning and Teaching Support PTLFL – Principal Teacher of Learning for Life APTT – Acting Primary Transition Teacher AFA - Administrative & Finance Assistant AA – Administrative Assistant CA – Clerical Assistant ASN – Additional Support Needs TT – Term-time FTE - Full Time Equivalent * - denotes job-sharing post ** - denotes probationer

School Handbook 2011/2012

SECTION 12: THE SCHOOL DAY The school operates a 30-period week with a total pupil teaching time of 27.5 hours per week as required by national agreements.

Registration 8.55 – 9.05



Period 1

9.05 – 10.00



Period 2

10.00 – 10.55



Interval

10.55 – 11.10



Period 3

11.10 – 12.05



Lunch

12.55 – 1.45



Period 5

1.45 – 2.40



Period 6

2.40 – 3.30

SECTION 13: THE SCHOOL YEAR SCHOOL CALENDAR AND HOLIDAY ARRANGEMENTS SESSION 2011/12 August 2010 Inservice day Inservice day Pupils return - Open September 2010 September weekend 2010 Close Open October week 2010 Close Open November 2010 Inservice day Christmas 2010 Close Open Mid Term February 2011 Inservice day Close Open Inservice day Easter 2011 Close Open Good Friday Easter Monday May Day 2011 Close Inservice day May Mid Term 2011 Close Open Summer 2011 Close

Thursday 12 August 2010 Friday 13 August 2010 Monday 16 August 2010



Thursday 23 September 2010 Tuesday 28 September 2010 Friday 8 October 2010 Monday 18 October 2010 Monday 15 November 2010 Thursday 23 December 2010 Wednesday 5 January 2011 Friday 11 February 2011 Friday 11 February 2011 Wednesday 16 February 2011 Wednesday 16 February 2011 Friday 1 April 2011 Monday 18 April 2011 Friday 22 April 2011 Monday 25 April 2011 Monday 2 May 2011 Tuesday 3 May 2011 Thursday 26 May 2011 Tuesday 31 May 2011 Friday 24 June 2011

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Taylor High School

technology school of ambition

SECTION 14: ENROLMENT Primary pupils due to transfer at the end of the session to secondary school are advised of the normal arrangements for this transfer in the month of December by their primary headteacher. In the case of Taylor High School, such pupils will already have been attending the high school for two hours a week over an eight week period so that they can sample various secondary subjects. Their parents will also have been given the opportunity to visit Taylor High, school by school, to see their children at work in the secondary setting. Mrs Devlin, Depute Head Teacher, organises further visits in the summer term and also organises visits to the associated primaries by key staff. She herself can be phoned at any time for further advice about transfer arrangements. Pupils who move into the catchment area If a pupils comes from another school or area outwith the school catchment area to reside within the latter, he/she can be enrolled in Taylor High by the parent bringing the pupil to the school for that purpose. Pupils who live outwith the catchment area If a pupil of secondary age lives outwith the school catchment area but his/her parents wish the pupil to be enrolled at Taylor High, then the parents must seek a placement through the official channels i.e. by contacting the Director of Education. Parents must be prepared to pay the pupil’s transport costs to and from the school. Parents who wish to visit the school before applying for a placement are invited to telephone the school for an appointment to do so.

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School Handbook 2011/2012

SECTION 15: PUPIL SUPPORT The pastoral care of individual pupils is provided by a team of promoted Pupil Support staff under the leadership of Depute Headteacher who has overall responsibility for Pupil Support. The function of the Pupil Support team is to promote the well being of all pupils in their charge in relation to personal, social and vocational issues. To accomplish this task Pupil Support staff endeavour to get to know and support pupils on an individual basis throughout their school career thus maintaining a valuable line of continuity from one year to the next. Pupil Support staff are assisted in their work by a range of other staff. Registration staff have a daily contact with class groups and assist in the monitoring of attendance and punctuality; the Principal Teacher of Learning Support is now part of the Pupil Support Team and works closely with other members of the team to support pupils identified as having specific needs; staff from Careers (Scotland) and school librarian provide advice and information on further/higher education and employment; and the psychological services also assist Pupil Support staff where support is needed for pupils with behavioural difficufties. Linked to a well established line of communication with subject teachers, Pupil Support staff are ideally placed to support and advise the pupils for whom they have a responsibility and to be available to discuss concerns with parents. The Pupil Support teacher is the first point of contact for parents if they have any concerns. Pupil Support Structure A ‘horizontal’ system is currently in operation and is organised as follows: Mrs T Weir

Pupil Support Coordinator

Mrs L McGraw Mr C Phairs Mr G McQuaid Mrs H McStay Mrs A O’Donnell

responsible for S1 responsible for S2 responsible for S3 responsible for S4 responsible for S5 and S6

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(St Margaret House) (St John Ogilvie House) (St Columba House) (St Kentigern House) (St Andrew House)

Taylor High School

technology school of ambition

SECTION 16: PUPIL SUPPORT STRUCTURE The above information shows the year group that each PT Pupil Support has responsibility for, and this person should be the first line of contact for parents wishing to contact the school. Pupil Support staff are happy to meet with parents throughout the school year and will arrange appointments as required. Each year the Pupil Support teacher will move with the year group, thus allowing pupils and parents to establish a long term link with a particular member of the Pupil Support team. Mrs Anna Robertson (PTSL) will be responsible for Support for Learning, liaising with the other Pupil support members of staff. Mrs H Hughes (PTPS)

DHT PTPS PST PTSL

will be responsible for behaviour support and social skills

– Depute Head Teacher - Principal Teacher Pupil Support - Pupil Support Team - Principal Teacher – Support for Learning

The school operates a structure which currently has a Depute Head Teacher with overall responsibility for Pupil Support in the school. The promoted post structure currently approved for the school has a team of seven principal teachers working in pupil support. Five of these discharge pastoral and management responsibilities related to pupil welfare while one specialises in behaviour support and one in learning support. Currently, seven Principal Teachers of Pupil Support are in post (as designated above). The Pupil Support Team is enhanced by volunteer members of staff who shadow promoted staff.

HOME SCHOOL PARTNERSHIP OFFICER The Home School Partnership Officer, Ian McFarlane, works to promote positive partnerships between the school, home and the community. He works in a variety of ways to tailor support and programmes to best suit the needs of the young people and their families. In particular the HSPO will support those pupils who have educational, social and/or behavioural needs.

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School Handbook 2011/2012

The HSPO will work with the existing Pupil Support provision to develop:• Working with small groups of pupils to enhance their learning experiences • Working with small groups of pupils on topics such as self esteem, dealing with stress, supporting positive attitudes and encouraging attendance. • One to one pupil and family support. This support can take place within Taylor High School or alternatively a home visit can be arranged by the HSPO. • Meeting parents and families to provide support, advice and information. • Supporting and training the Pupil Council. • Working with Primaries to support the transition to High School • Supporting senior students in training to become Buddies/Peer Tutors to younger pupils. • Develop networks between young people, families, the school, community and other Agencies. Home School Partnership, a service committed to: • Promoting Positive Partnerships • Being Socially Inclusive • Promoting Active Citizens • Raising Achievement and Attainment

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SECTION 17: EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES As we made clear at the beginning, we are particularly concerned as a Catholic school to encourage all members of our community to respect others as they respect themselves. Accordingly, we wish to ensure that all pupils have the same rights of access to all of the resources and opportunities within the school irrespective of gender, ethnic origin, physical or intellectual ability. We also accept our responsibility to take positive action, within the resources available to us, to remove or reduce whatever barriers are sometimes placed in the way of pupils and which prevent them from having equal opportunities. Further advice and information on this topic is available from the school.

SECTION 18: PUPIL SUPPORT - SUPPORT FOR LEARNING Additional Support Needs Taylor High School complies with the Education (Additional Support for Learning) (Scotland) Act 2009. North Lanarkshire Council’s policy is contained within “Support for Learning Policy into Practice”, a copy of which is available in the School. The school has a Support for Learning Policy, available from the school on request, which is consistent with North Lanarkshire Council guidelines. In Taylor High School Support for Learning is a whole school resource - it is for all pupils and all staff. The main roles of the Learning Support staff are as follows: 1. Working as a co-operative Teacher - to support the needs of pupils experiencing difficulties in the classroom. 2. Providing guidance to other staff - to advise staff on materials, methodology and resources which help to meet the needs of pupils. 3. Direct teaching - where necessary pupils will be withdrawn from class and taught individually. This would only occur in exceptional cases and would be for a short period of time and with the consent of parents. 4. Liaison with outside agencies - to liaise with Psychological Services, Hearing Impaired Service, Bi-lingual Support, speech & language specialists and other relevant agencies in order to provide a full programme of support for pupils with special needs

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The staff of Taylor High School fully support North Lanarkshire Council’s policy on integration of children with special needs. The Council’s policy acknowledges that an appropriately differentiated curriculum should be delivered in a supportive way which recognises that every child’s contribution is of equal importance. Every member of staff accepts responsibility to provide and deliver an appropriate curriculum and therefore every teacher has responsibility for supporting learning. Additional Support for Learning The Education (Additional Support for Learning) Scotland Act 2009 has introduced a new framework for supporting children and young people in their school education, and their families. This framework is based on the idea of additional support needs. This new term will apply to children and young people who, for whatever reason, require additional support, long or short term in order to help them make the most of their school education. Through a process of staged intervention and, where appropriate in conjunction with other appropriate agencies, the school will work to support these pupils and their families within the framework of the new legislation and in line with the Code of Practice. Supported by the education authority, the school will be fully involved in the transitional arrangements set out by the Scottish Executive or those pupils who previously had Co-ordinated Support Plans (CSP). Provision will be made for pupils with English as a second language. Looked After Children are deemed to have Additional Support Needs unless assessment determines otherwise. Parents and pupils are an essential part of the assessment, planning and review processes and your views will be actively sought. Parents and young people can request of the authority to establish whether a child has additional support needs. They can also request an assessment at any time. Planning Additional Support Plans (ASPs) enable staff to plan for children with Additional Support Needs. Some children may require significant support from education and at least one other agency, such as health, social work, voluntary agency to help them meet their learning targets. Where this support requires a high level of co-ordination the opening of a Co-ordinated Support Plan (CSP) may be considered. Parents and young people can, if they wish, request a CSP and are very much part of the process. A CSP may be initiated by the school or another agency. Parents will receive letters from the Education Authority throughout the process of producing a CSP. Parents and young people will be invited to take part in multi agency meetings and their views will be recorded in the plan. Dispute Resolution North Lanarkshire Council is committed to resolving any differences of views through discussion, dialogue and building on common ground.

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technology school of ambition If the matter cannot be resolved with the Education Authority you have the right to request mediation. An independent mediation service is available to parents and young people through Resolve (see contact details at the back of this handbook). Mediation is free and independent of the Education Authority. In the event that a disagreement can not be resolved through mediation, then an application for Independent Adjudication (see contact details at the back of this handbook) can be made by parents free of charge. The Independent Adjudicator will make recommendations to the Education Authority about how the dispute should be resolved. The Additional Support Needs Tribunal has been set up to hear appeals made by parents or young people on the decisions made by the Education Authority relating to Co-ordinated Support Plans and placing requests. If you disagree with any decision relating to your child’s Co-ordinated Support Plan or the content of it you may be able to refer to the Tribunal. Primary/Secondary Liaison The Support for Learning staff make visits to each of our Associated Primary Schools to make contact with all P7 teachers regarding the students. This ensures that all of the children who have the most significant difficulties are known to the Support for Learning department before they arrive at Taylor High School. Furthemore the principal teacher of Support for Learning passes the information about the individual pupils to all departments so that all teachers can plan appropriately for the needs of all pupils. For pupils who have a Co-ordinated Support Plan (CSP) and/or Additional Support Plans (ASP) there are transition meetings at the Primary 7 stage and these meetings are attended by the principal teacher of Support for Learning to ensure that all support continues in secondary school. To further enhance the Continuity Programme, a Primary Transition Teacher has been appointed. He teaches English and Maths to First and Second Year students and regularly visits the five associated Primary School to ensure a seamless transition for our Primary 7 students. He teaches the primary 7 students Maths and Literacy and shares good practice across sectors. Support for Learning staff Support for Learning teachers are based in the School Library Resource Centre where there is a small room and office for group work and parent interviews. In addition to our own support for learning staff, we are fortunate to have the services of a number of peripatetic staff. A teacher from the Network Support Team works in the school, usually 3 days a week and there are 6 additional support assistants (ASNs) and 2 full time classroom assistants. The ASNs work within the Support for Learning department to assist pupils with physical difficulties and to work with pupils on individual reading programmes. Peer Tutoring Sixth Year students often volunteer to work with pupils on Paired Reading and spelling programmes. Some of the senior students also help S1 pupils to develop a Personal Learning plan and support them in building their self-esteem and confidence in Learning. Senior students also help at the lunchtime homework club in the school library, run by Support for Learning staff and the school librarian. It is aimed at S1 pupils in particular (although all pupils are welcome), helping them to cope with the demands and organisation of homework in secondary school. 23

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SECTION 19: LIBRARY RESOURCE CENTRE Taylor High School library resource centre is committed to the provision of a quality library service which supports the curricular and recreational needs of the pupils. The library is open every morning before registration from 8.30am onwards and at lunchtimes from 1.15pm until 1.40pm, Monday to Friday. It is also open for a short time after school each day. At these times, pupils may borrow or return books, browse, read, complete homework or use the ICT facilities. To support these activities a wide range of resources is held by the library including 7,500 books, videos, journals and CD ROMs. Each year the library stock is updated to include all the latest titles including the acquisition of books to support courses or units such as the Higher English SSL. The library contains 10 PCs which are networked to allow access to the internet and to Plan IT and Progress which are part of Continuing Education Gateway. The library has an up-to-date careers collection containing leaflets, journals, prospectuses and annual publications. From time to time the library will also make use of extra material and display /exhibition resources borrowed from North Lanarkshire’s Educational Resource Service. Pupils are encouraged to assist in the library with routine tasks such as shelving and issuing books and older pupils have an opportunity to help with projects such as peer tutoring which is organised by the support for learning service. At all times the positive behaviour code is followed to provide a safe and comfortable learning environment for all users. Should you require further information please contact Miss A Dougan the school librarian

SECTION 20: CURRICULUM ORGANISATION School Policy and Organisation Primary - Secondary Liaison A lengthy and extensive programme exists between Taylor High School and its associated primaries to make transfer between the sectors as smooth and easy as possible for our pupils. The following outlines our current arrangements: Curricular Continuity Programme Pupils from our 6 associated primaries - Our Lady & St Francis, St Teresa’s, St Patrick’s, St Mary’s, Christ the King and Cathedral - attend Taylor High School one morning a week for 8 weeks while still in Primary 7. During this time they work in a number of subject departments. In the course of session 2010/11 they spent 2 weeks in each of the Art, Science, Spanish and Technical Departments. In addition to the curricular continuity which the programme promotes, pupils also have the opportunity to meet Taylor High School staff, become familiar with the layout of the school and meet the pupils with whom they will spend their secondary career.

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technology school of ambition Their parents are invited to Taylor High School during the project to see the work that their child has undertaken in secondary. This visit also affords parents the opportunity to be provided with initial information on a range of topics concerning secondary school life such as homework, discipline, subject rotations and the pupil support structure. Senior Management Visits to Primary Schools By arrangement with the Head Teachers of associated Primary Schools, the Head Teacher and Depute Head Teacher (Lower School) will meet the parents of Primary 7 pupils in each of the associated primaries. These meetings will enable staff from Taylor High to provide parents with detailed information in pupil induction, the curriculum in Taylor High and to answer questions regarding the forthcoming transfer of pupils from Primary 7 to First Year. Pupil Support Staff Visits to Primary The Pupil Support personnel who will have responsibility for the next session’s S1 will visit the associated primaries with the Depute Head Teacher (Lower School). This visit allows them to obtain important information about the pupils from their Primary 7 teacher. Primary 7 pupils also have the opportunity to meet the person who will be the most important link person in their secondary career. Information booklets on Taylor High School are issued to all P7 pupils and discussed with Mrs Devlin, Depute Head Teacher and a member of Pupil Support team. Where appropriate, and depending on the amount of information already made available to secondary staff, Learning Support staff may also participate in these visits. In preparation for their induction days, P7 pupils are also issued with their First Year class list and class timetable. Primary 7 Induction Days All P7 pupils visit Taylor High School for 2 days in June. They meet the other pupils in their First Year class and follow the class timetable. These 2 days allow the pupils to: ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦

meet their Pupil Support Teacher begin to learn the layout of the building as they move from subject to subject. meet other pupils in their class. meet staff of Taylor High School.

This should help allay fears of pupils (and often their parents) before they begin First Year in August. Primary - Secondary Staff Liaison Steering Committee The Head Teacher, Depute Head Teacher (Lower School) and all six Primary Head Teachers meet on a regular basis to plan a range of programmes and strategies to promote further developments between the schools e.g. Learning Support developments, improvements in transfer of information systems, curricular links and so on.

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What is Curriculum for Excellence? Curriculum for Excellence aims to achieve a transformation in education in Scotland by providing an improved, more flexible and enriched curriculum for all children and young people from 3 – 18. The curriculum includes all of the experiences which are planned for children and young people through their education, wherever they are being educated. All schools and nurseries in North Lanarkshire are working hard to raise standards so that children and young people will develop all of the skills necessary to continue to be successful when leaving school and entering the world of higher education, training or work. Curriculum for Excellence is underpinned by the values inscribed on the mace of the Scottish Parliament – wisdom, justice, compassion and integrity. The purpose of Curriculum for Excellence is encapsulated in the four capacities – to enable each child or young person to be a successful learner, a confident individual, a responsible citizen and an effective contributor. What are the curriculum areas in Curriculum for Excellence? There are eight curriculum areas:Expressive Arts Health and Well Being Languages (literacy) Mathematics (numeracy)

Religious and Moral Education Sciences Social Studies Technologies

Importantly literacy and numeracy are given added importance because these skills are so vital in everyday life. All teachers will have responsibility to teach literacy and numeracy. Learning is divided into two phases. The GENERAL PHASE is from nursery to the end of Secondary School Year 3. Learning is divided into levels. These levels will replace the 5-14 levels that you are familiar with. The new levels are as follows:LEVEL STAGE Early the pre-school years and P1 or later for some First to the end of P.4 but earlier or later for some Second to the end of P7, but earlier or later for some Third and fourth S1-S3, but earlier for some The SECOND PHASE is from Secondary School Year 4 and beyond Senior Phase S4 – S6 and college or other means of study

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technology school of ambition How will my child’s learning be assessed? There will be new ways of assessing each child’s progress to make sure that potential is achieved. New qualifications are being developed:Literacy and Numeracy Tests (at the end of S3) from 2012/13 National 4 and 5 qualifications from 2013/2014 Access, Highers and Advanced Highers to be updated to reflect Curriculum for Excellence In playrooms and classrooms staff will be using improved ways of assessing children’s learning taking account of national and local advice and guidance. Your child’s progress will be reported to you so that you know how well your child is doing. Each year your nursery/school will let you know what is being done to implement Curriculum for Excellence so that you can be confident that your child is receiving a high quality education.

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First and Second Year Curriculum First Year classes have approximately 26-28 pupils and are organised on a mixedability basis. Practical sets for subjects like science or technical have around 18 pupils. Classes in English and Mathematics in First and Second Year have an average maximum size of 20 Proposed S1 Curriculum in 2011-2012: SUBJECT

PERIOD ALLOCATION

English Maths Science Spanish Social Subjects Art and Design Music Home Economics Technical ICT Physical Education Religious Education TOTAL

4 4 3 2 3 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 30

Third and Fourth Year Curriculum Pupils select 8 subjects from a range of courses at Standard Grade and intermediate level(see attached options structure). Awards depend upon performance throughout the two - year course and on national examinations. A range of vocational courses are also available including hairdressing, care and retail. Some of these are delivered by college partners. Fifth and Sixth Year Curriculum At this stage, Students choose 5 courses (again see the attached options structure). These courses lead to awards at Advanced Higher, Higher, Intermediate 2, intermediate 1 or free standing units. It may be possible to organise courses for students at Motherwell College or another neighbourhood school if Taylor High is unable to offer a given choice of course. In addition, students undertake vocational courses including hairdressing, care and sports coaching

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Parent/Carer Signature:

First Choice Second Choice

R.E.

P.S.H.E.

Choose ONE extra as a second choice

GRAPHIC COMMUNICATION HAIRDRESSING (Int 1)

RETAILING (Int 2) SPANISH TECHNOLOGICAL STUDIES (Int 2)

PRACTICAL CRAFT SKILLS (Woodwork Int 1 & 2)

HOME ECONOMICS HOSPITALITY (Int 1) MUSIC PE STUDIES PHYSICS PRACTICAL CRAFT SKILLS (Engineering Int 1 & 2)

ELECTIVE SUBJECTS – Choose 3

COLUMNS F,G & H

Class ………………………..

ART & DESIGN BIOLOGY BUSINESS MANAGEMENT CHEMISTRY COMPUTING STUDIES CRAFT & DESIGN EARLY EDUCATION AND CHILD CARE (Int 1) FASHION & TEXTILE TECHNOLOGY (Int 1)

Potential Career/s (if known)

PHYSICS

MODERN STUDIES

P.E

FRENCH CHEMISTRY

ENGLISH HISTORY

SCIENCE

COLUMN E

MATHEMATICS

SOCIAL SUBJECT

COLUMN D

BIOLOGY

MODERN LANGUAGE

COLUMN C

S3 OPTION FORM 2010/2011

GEOGRAPHY

All students MUST study:-

COMPULSORY COLUMNS

Name…………………………………..

TAYLOR HIGH SCHOOL

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30 C

Mathematics Woodworking Craft Skills

Business Management Creative Cake Decorating French Information Systems Mathematics Product Design Spanish Woodworking Craft Skills

Business Management French Information Systems Mathematics Product Design Spanish

Biology Physics

Column C (S4 Column F)

E

Biology Sports Coaching – S6 only Travel and Tourism

Art and Design Biology Information Systems Music Physical Education

Art and Design Biology Chemistry Information Systems Music Physical Education

Art and Design Chemistry

Column E (S4 Column H)

Parent’s Signature: ………………….Date: ………….

D

Engineering Craft Skills English

Engineering Craft Skills English Graphic Communication Health and Food Technology. Music Physical Education

English Graphic Communication Health and Food Technology Music Photography (S6 only) Physical Education

English

Column D (S4 Column G)

Class: ………………..

S5/S6 OPTIONS FORM

Teacher’s Signature: …………………………..

B

Care Creative Digital Media History Mathematics Modern Studies

English Hairdressing

A

Geography History Mathematics Modern Studies Care

Geography History Mathematics Modern Studies Psychology (S6 only consortium)

Mathematics

Column B (S4 Column D)

Biology Chemistry English Hospitality Physics

Biology Chemistry English Physics

Column A (S4 Column E)

Pupil’s Signature: ……………………………… To be returned to school office by

Intermediate 1 Courses

Intermediate 2 Courses

Higher Courses

Advanced Higher Courses

Level

Name: …………………………….. Career Intention: ..……..…………………….

Taylor High School : Session 2010 – 2011 :

School Handbook 2011/2012

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SECTION 21: ASSESSMENT The main purpose of assessment in Taylor High School is to ensure that all children experience a genuine sense of achievement in their learning. End of unit assessments are used in all stages and help the teacher and pupil check the progress which is being made. Areas of difficulty can be highlighted and next steps identified to direct pupils to further work to overtake identified development needs. Key aspects of the pupil’s work are assessed to provide a cumulative profile of the pupil’s achievements in terms of subject content, concepts and skills (see section 16 - Reports to Parents). All departments keep internal records of pupils’ work and progress which are used in discussion with parents at parents meetings and on other occasions. Pupil Support records contain general information on pupils. When confidential information is provided by parents, only Pupil Support Staff and Senior Management have direct access. Sensitive information passed on by parents is normally not recorded in written form. Outside agencies (e.g. employers) are only informed about a pupil’s progress reports if the parents and pupil request it; they do not have access to other types of information on individual pupils.

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SECTION 22: REPORTS TO PARENTS Parents receive one full report per year on their child’s progress. In addition to this the parents of First Year pupils receive interim reports in November and a review in January. Pupils in Second and Third Year are subject to a First Term review of progress in all subject areas. Each report contains information on progress, effort, attendance and timekeeping. The class teacher will normally make further comment on certain aspects of the pupil’s performance and indicate areas of work which may require attention. All reports are in an electronic format (osis) and will be available for parents to access online. Parents also have an opportunity to meet with teaching staff to discuss their child’s progress at a parent’s meeting held in the school, the date and time of which is published in the school calendar early in the session. Pupils in Fourth Year are subject to an October review of progress in all subject areas. Matters which arise from these reviews are collated by the Depute Head Teacher and forwarded to parents. This is followed closely by a Parents’ Meeting. A full report is issued to parents of all Fourth Year students early in the new year shortly after the December prelim exams held each year. Students in Fifth and Sixth Year are subject to two reviews prior to the parents’ meeting which is held in late November or early December. Prelim examinations take place in early February. The two major points of contact with parents are the Parents’ Meeting held before Christmas and the full report which is issued after the prelims in February. Parents should note that while reviews will often alert them to matters of concern, equally staff may issue a positive review to inform parents of particularly noteworthly progress in a particular subject area. However, this has now been replaced by assessment under a Curriculum for Excellence which involves the students experiences and outcomes across broad curriculum areas. A sample report is shown. Tests will be taken by pupils when, as a result of ongoing assessment, the teacher believes that the pupil is ready to progress from one Curriculum level to another. The test will be carried out within the class by the teacher as an integral part of the work of the class. National test results will be reported to parents, as part of the wide reporting system which operates within the school. The following pages include sample reports -

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REPORT Could you please email this to us as we could not find it among the Emails already sent to us. Thanks

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SECTION 23: HOMEWORK During their school careers, almost all pupils undertake school work which is additional to that done during formal lessons. If properly designed, this homework can play a valuable part in a pupil’s education. It can add a substantial amount of study time; it offers opportunities for work which is independent of the teacher; it can exploit materials and sources not readily accessible in the classroom; it allows pupils to practise skills learned in the class; it permits the setting of targets in accordance with the needs and abilities of individual pupils; it can help to strengthen the link between home and school. In more specific terms, the following statements outline the Homework Policy of Taylor High School and each Department will base its own homework policy on these principles. 1. Homework is an integral part of any well-structured course and is, therefore, incorporated into the course at the design stage. 2. Homework should be designed to confirm and reinforce existing skills. It provides opportunity to further develop problem solving and information-handling abilities. 3. Homework is given to pupils from First Year onwards and builds on existing practices in the Primary schools to foster the correct habits and attitudes which are necessary in later years. 4. Homework tasks are appropriate to the needs and skills of individual pupils. 5. The amount of homework should be reasonable. What is appropriate depends on pupil abilities and on the extent to which these develop as the pupil progresses through school. The varying depth and degree of challenge of coursework at different stages, is also taken into account. Departments will also take into account requests from parents for extra homework. 6. Homework encourages in pupils a responsibility for their own learning and prepares pupils for the discipline of private study. 7. Homework helps Principal Teachers to monitor the effectiveness of learning and teaching in their department. 8. All homework is monitored by teachers by a variety of methods -marking, spot-checks, skimming, related class activities. The amount of homework set is not therefore limited by the volume of correction borne by the teacher. A proportion of homework tasks will also be assessed so that assessment may contribute to Reports to Parents or to internal assessments required by the Scottish Qualifications Authority. The extent to which such assessment occurs is a matter for individual subjects departments.

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technology school of ambition 9. All homework is recorded by teachers, largely for the purpose of pupil assessment and reporting. Increasingly, however, it will provide opportunities for pupils to make their own entries in self-assessment profiles or their student planners 10 Departments give considerable thought to parental involvement in pupils’ homework. Parents are often asked to sign pieces of written homework. But there are many other ways pupils can be helped by their parents; spelling, “testing’ their children; listening to what has been learned; asking them for explanations of homework tasks. 11. Parent are encouraged to seek advice/clarification on any issues regarding homework. Please contact your child’s Pupil Support Teacher in the first instance. 12. Every pupil is provided with a Taylor High School Student Planner to record their homework, assessments and achievements. Staff assist pupils to use the planner and monitor its effectiveness. Parents are asked to inspect their child’s planner and sign it at the end of each week. This planner also includes important information for both pupils and parents and indeed can form part of good discussion at home about school issues.

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SECTION 24: DATA PROTECTION Information on pupils, parents and guardians is stored on a computer system and may be used for teaching, registration, assessment and other administrative duties. The information is protected by the data protection acts and may only be disclosed in accordance with the Codes of Practice. For further information please contact the school. The processing of your personal information by North Lanarkshire Council is carried out in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998. The information you give is held securely, treated confidentially and only used for statutory educational purposes or to improve the quality of the service. Under the Data Protection Act 1998 you are entitled to access the information held. Applications for this can be made to the Data Protection Officer, North Lanarkshire Council, Civic Centre, Motherwell, ML1 1TW.

Freedom of Information Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002 came into force on 1 January 2005. The Act allows anyone to ask for information from the Council and imposes a very tight time-scale for the Council to respond. To deal with Freedom of Information requests, the Council has appointed a Corporate Freedom of Information Officer with the backing of an officer in each Service. The Services contact for freedom of Information is Margaret Kean, who can be reached by telephone on 01236 812308

Transferring Educational Data About Pupils Education authorities and the Scottish Government Education Portfolio (SGEP) exchange data about pupils either on paper or electronically through the ScotXed programme. The data collected and transferred covers areas such as date of birth, postcode, registration for free-school meals, whether a pupil is looked after by his/her local authority, additional support needs including disability, attendance, absence and exclusions from school. Pupil names and addresses are collected by the school and the council but they are not passed to SGEP. The postcode is the only part of the address that is transferred. Data is held securely and no information on individual pupils can be published by SGEP

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technology school of ambition Providing national identity and ethnic background data is entirely voluntary. You can choose the ‘not disclosed’ option if you do not want to provide this data. However, we hope that the explanations contained in this message and on our website will help you understand the importance of providing the data. Why do we need your data? In order to make the best decisions about how to improve our education service, SGEP and learning & leisure services need accurate, up-to-date data about our pupils. We are keen to help all our pupils do well in all aspects of school life and achieve better exam results. Accurate and up-to-date data allows SGEP, learning & leisure services and schools to: • • • •

plan and deliver better policies for the benefit of all pupils, plan and deliver better policies for the benefit of specific groups of pupils, better understand some of the factors that influence pupil attainment and achievement, target resources better.

Your data protection rights The collection, transfer, processing and sharing of ScotXed data is done in accordance with the Data Protection Act (1998). We also comply with the National Statistics Code of Practice requirements and other legislation related to safeguarding the confidentiality of data. The Data Protection Act gives you the right to know how we will use your data. This message can give only a brief description of how we use data. Fuller details of the uses of pupil data can be found on the ScotXed website (www.scotxed.net). SGEP works with a range of partners including HM Inspectorate of Education and the Scottish Qualifications Authority. On occasion, we will make individual data available to partners and also academic institutions to carry out research and statistical analysis. In addition, we will provide our partners with information they need in order to fulfil their official responsibilities. Any sharing of data will be done under the strict control and prior agreement of the Data Access Panel in SGEP, which will ensure that no individual level data will be made public as a result of the data sharing and that these data will not be used to take any actions in respect of an individual. Concerns If you have any concerns about the ScotXed data collections you can email [email protected] or write to The ScotXed Support Office, SGEP, Area 1B, Victoria Quay, Leith, EH6 6QQ. Alternative versions of this page are available, on request from the ScotXed Support Office, in other languages, audio tape, braille and large print. Want more information? Further details about ScotXed data exchanges are available on the ScotXed website, www.scotxed.net.

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Child Protection Every adult in Scotland has a role in ensuring all our children and young people are safe and protected from harm at all times and in all situations The Head Teacher is responsible for the schools actions in response to Child Protection concerns If there are any Child Protection concerns the Head Teacher or the Child Protection Co-ordinator will follow North Lanarkshire Child Protection Procedures and Guidelines Child Protection Co-ordinator is: Mrs Therese Weir Telephone Number: 01698 352590

SECTION 25: POSITIVE DISCIPLINE Discipline The Central discipline themes of the school are: 1. The creation of an atmosphere of co-operation between staff and pupils. 2. The essential similarity in the many roles of teachers and parents. 3. The promotion of positive behaviour. Through these themes it is hoped that pupils are motivated to self-discipline rather than by externally-imposed discipline procedures. To this effect, pupils take on the responsibility to follow the school’s code of conduct. These are a set of obvious guidelines which are introduced for the smooth running of the school community and promote positive behaviour. As a school we promote Positive Behaviour Positive Discipline In Taylor High School we recognise that effective teaching and learning can only take place in an orderly and controlled environment. The following code shows our expectations of pupils: POSITIVE BEHAVIOUR CODE ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦

Always treat others with respect Listen carefully, raise your hand before speaking Work hard and do not distract others Obey the safety code

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technology school of ambition We encourage pupils to play their part and reward them for positive behaviour, achievement and effort. The kind of rewards pupils receive are: S1 and S2 classes gain merit points from both class and registration teachers for meeting set targets. All pupils S1-S6 can receive a lndividual Positive Referral from class teachers for an outstanding piece of work and/or improvement in class work. All of these merit points and individual referrals can become access to school trips and other privileges. procedure for dealing with indiscipline Pupils understand that failure to follow the positive behaviour code leads to sanctions being used. We have a staged approach to sanctions to show pupils the seriousness of their actions. sanctions ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦

Stage 1- Stage 2- Stage 3- Stage 4- Stage 5-

Formal Warning Punishment Exercise Referral to Principal Teacher Lunchtime Detention Referral to Depute Head Teacher

ANTI-BULLYING STRATEGY The school has a policy designed to prevent bullying from taking place. This policy also outlines the strategy to be adopted when, from time to time, an incident of bullying arises. The student planner issued to each pupil makes it clear that bullying is wrong and provides advice to pupils on what to do if an incident occurs which could be regarded as bullying. The planner also gives clear guidance on what NOT to do. Fuller details of the school’s anti-bullying policy are available on request. Literature for parents and pupils is distributed in school. An adult presence is provided in playgrounds, at break times in terms of the schools (safety and supervision of pupils) (Scotland) Regulations 1990.

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SECTION 26: ACHIEVEMENTS PUPIL ACHIEVEMENTS In Taylor High School we co-ordinate all activities which recognise and celebrate the achievements of our pupils. This Programme culminates in a Celebrating Success Ceremony at the end of each school year which recognises the positive behaviour, achievement in learning and personal achievements of a large number of our pupils. Four areas are recognised in our programme: Academic progress, Personal Achievement, Attendance and Contribution to SchoolCommunity . A total of 330 pupils had their achievements recognised and celebrated in June 2009. Each year, for a variety of reasons and achievements, some of our pupils are also recipients of a range of special awards. SPECIAL AWARDS Descriptions of our special awards are given below along with the names of the recipients forthe previous academic sessions. The Woodlock Trophy for Outstanding Athletic Achievement: This trophy is awarded to the pupil who has shown the greatest athletic ability in Third and Fourth Year. The award was donated by Mrs Phyllis Woodlock as a memorial to her son Andrew who died in tragic circumstances in 1997. Andrew had been a talented athlete while at school and this trophy is a fitting memorial to him. 2001 DAVID PINKOWSKI 2002 NATALIE McINTYRE, JAMES NICOL 2003 RICHARD QUINN 2004 JOSHUA CLARK 2005 MARK RICE 2006 Paul McNulty 2007 Paul McNulty 2008 THOMAS LAFFERTY 2009 DEAN KENNEDY 2010 CAMERON MARTIN Taylor High Award for Outstanding Sporting Achievement: This award is presented to the Sixth Year student who has distinguished him or herself in the sporting field. The student is nominated by the Physical Education staff for involvement and success in a number of individual and team events during six years in Taylor High School. 2001 LOUISE McGUIRE 2002 NO AWARD 2003 NO AWARD 2004 BRIAN SMEDLEY 2005 ROSS McKENNA 2006 DAVID O’NEIL 2007 LAUREN BECK 2008 COLETTE MARTIN 2009 STEPHEN O’NEILL 2010 TONY PERKINS

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technology school of ambition Taylor High Award for Cultural Achievement: Music: This award is presented to the Sixth Year student who has distinguished him or herself in Musical activities during six years at Taylor High School. The pupil is nominated by the music staff in recognition of her or his contribution to music both individually and as part of music groups in Taylor High School and also in our associated primary schools and parishes. 2001 MONICA TIERNEY 2002 HAYLEY MORRIS 2003 NO AWARD 2004 ASHLEIGH COLLINS 2005 NO AWARD 2006 JONATHAN CARR 2007 NO AWARD 2008 SUZANNE MOOTY 2009 DENNIS DIGNALL 2010 STEPHEN MCNULTY RACHEL OATES NICOLE COLLINS Outstanding Musical Ambassador RACHEL OATES Taylor High Award for Cultural achievement –Art and Design This award is presented to the sixth year student who has distinguished him or herself in Art and Design during six years at Taylor High School. The pupil is nominated by the Art and Design department in recognition of his or her contribution to art, both individually and as part of a group. The student is recognised for excellence in personal folio work as well as contributing to the aesthetic life of the school 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

No Award Joanne Irvine Jennifer Clark Ouzma Naveed Kelly McNair NICOLE RITCHIE GRAEME DIVERS JASMINE GIBSON KENNETH LAW CLARE-LOUISE FOY

Taylor High Excellent Attendance Award: This is an award presented to the Sixth Year student who has the best cumulative attendance since First Year. The information to identify this pupil is gained from the electronic registration system. 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

KIMBERLEY ROSS MARK DONNELLY JOSEPH GRADY FRANCIS BRADLEY CHRISTOPHER LAW GRAEME MCGRATH MARY FRANCES BLAIR STACEY ANNE HOWEY RACHEL KENNEDY OLIVIA MCAVOY

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Taylor High Award for Outstanding Personal Achievement: This award is presented to the Sixth Year student who has shown the greatest personal achievement. The winner in this category is chosen after all staff- both teaching and nonteaching- are asked for nominations. 2001 JOHN REYNOLDS 2002 DANIEL SMITH 2003 RICKY EGAN, JAMES GRANT 2004 FRANCIS BRADLEY 2005 PATRICK BROWN, LISA HATTIE 2006 JULIE MCGRORY, JAMIE CREECHAN 2007 MEGAN TIMMONS, MARIA SMITH, JOHN MCFEELY 2008 KARINA MCGOWAN, CHRISTOPHER MCGOWAN, LEEHAM MURRAY 2009 STEVEN RANKIN 2010 BOBBY STEWART REAGIN LOWDON Richard Lynas Award for Service to School and Community: This is an award that is presented annually to the Sixth Year student who has made the most significant contribution to the corporate life of the school and enhanced the reputation of the school in our community. The winner of the award is the young person who attracts the most nominations from all staff across the school. 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

KATHRYN BRENNAN MARTIN CARLIN JOSEPH GRADY ASHLEIGH COLLINS DOMINIC DUFFY FRANCES INGRAM, SEAN O’HARA LAURA BROUGH ALLAN REID MARIA MURPHY AND KENNETH LAW STEPHEN MCNULTY RACHEL OATES

Taylor High School Citizenship Award This award is presented to a pupil or group of pupils who have given outstanding service to the school, local community and/or enhanced awareness of global citizenship within the Taylor High School community. 2005 Kamwokya Pupil Group 2006 Kamwokya Pupil Group 2007 Taylor High School Music Group 2008 S4 XL Group 2009 No Award 2010 S6 Gymnastics Group Taylor High School Enterprise Award This award is presented to a pupil or group of pupils who demonstrate a ‘can and will do it’ approach in everything that they undertake, be it skill acquisition, success in national examinations, experience and understanding of the world of work including entrepreneurial activity. 2005 Taylor High School Tech Team 2006 Taylor High School Fairtrade Group 2007 Snag/Kamwokya Group 2008 Neon Knights / Project X 2009 North Lanarkshire Challenge Group 2010 S4 Papal Vocal Group

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technology school of ambition St Teresa’s Golden Jubilee Award Awarded to a pupil for outstanding contribution to the pastoral life of the school. 2007 Fiona Campbell 2008 Jillian Green 2009 Maria Murphy and Emma O’Neill 2010 Erin Canny

Claire Hughes Trophy for Outstanding Endeavour in Mathematics 2009 2010

ASHRAF AHMED, COLETTE SAVAGE, LOUISE LAWLOR MARK ANDERSON, MONICA DAY AND LOUISE MORGAN LUKAS JANKAUSKAS

Gillian Monaghan award for Outstanding Academic Excellence at Standard Grade: This award is presented to the Fourth Year pupil who has the overall individual greatest academic achievement. The trophy was donated by Mrs Maureen Monaghan in memory of her daughter Gillian who died after a short illness while in Fourth Year at Taylor High in 1998. Gillian was a student of academic promise and this is an appropriate way of ensuring that

her name will always be remembered in the school. The information needed to identify the pupil to receive this award is gained principally from departmental SQA estimate returns which the Headteacher examines at length. 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

JOSEPH GRADY CAROLINE McFARLANE RACHAEL FORRESTER, JOHN McFARLANE FRANCES INGRAM LOUISE WARD CRAIG LEES DENNIS DIGNALL STEPHEN MCNULTY JENNIFER MACIS MARIA BURNS, COLETTE GRANT, CAMERON MARTIN, ALIYAH SHAFIQ

Head teachers award for Outstanding Academic Excellence: The trophy for outstanding academic excellence is awarded to the Fifth Year student who has the best overall individual academic achievement. The information needed to identify this student is gained from the departmental SQA estimate returns. Again the Headteacher examined closely the estimates of teachers. 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

HAYLEY MORRIS BRIAN MORRIS MARTIN DELANEY DANIELLE FERRIE AND ALANA McKIBBEN FRANCES INGRAM AND GRAEME McGRATH JOHN MCFEELY CRAIG LEES HANNAH TOUGHER STEPHEN MCNULTY IQRAH SIDDIQUE

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There are a number of other achievements of our pupils that are noteworthy. These include: Sport The school makes an award of Sport Champion each year to the top performing boy and girl insport in First, Second and Third Years. The award winners for 2010 were: First Year Girl’s Sports Champion – Megan McCarroll First Year Boy’s Sports Champion – Jack Shearer Second Year Girl’s Sports Champion - Eloise Keenan Second Year Boy’s Sports Champion – Aiden McKinnon Third Year Girl’s Sports Champion – Claire Gollogly Third Year Boy’s Sports Champion – Conor McCormick Ross McGowan Shield – Ian McShane House Tournaments Each year group has a house name as mentioned previously. Each year pupils compete in house sports tournaments in the Autumn which involve all pupils from S1 to S3. The sports involved are football, netball and baseball.The overall house winners at each stage then receive an impressive trophy which is the property of the house concerned until the following year. The trophies, which are presented at the celebrating Success Ceremony in June later during the same session, are as follows: The John Taggart Shield First Year House Trophy This trophy is named after a distinguished former Depute Head Teacher in Taylor High who also taught Physical Education in the school. Mr. Taggart’s very strong contribution to the school was given recognition by the naming of this award in his honour. The Francis Flynn Trophy Second Year House Trophy This trophy was donated by the family of Francis Flynn who died while he was a Third Year pupil in the school in 1998. Francis had battled illness for a long time and is much remembered and often spoken of with affection and regard in the school. This trophy perpetuates his memory. The Cantwell Trophy Third Year House Trophy This trophy was donated by the family of Stephen Cantwell who died some years after he left Taylor High School. Again, Stephen had been held in high regard by all at Taylor and this trophy provides a fitting memorial to him. The Winners were: The John Taggart Shield The Francis Flynn Trophy The Stephen Cantwell Trophy

St Margaret House St Andrew House St John Ogilvie House

The HMIe has itself distinguished between Attainment in broad academic terms and Achievement. In addition to academic successes, Taylor HS is proud of the Achievements of its pupils and is well aware that what we do – both within the formal and informal curriculum - contributes to the successful and personal achievement of students becoming responsible young citizens, as Successful Learners, Confident Individuals, Responsible Citizens and Effective Contributors.

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technology school of ambition Such achievements are evident in the wide range of curricular and extra curricular activities, all of which prepare our young for adult life, building good relationships with staff, relating to others in a range of contexts beyond the formal classroom setting, and therefore practising and adopting mature behaviours which they will carry into adult life. Our Celebrating Success programme has also been updated to reflect the role of students within the life of the school, emphasising the quality of relationships and how pupils engage as citizens within the school community, in merits and badges such as Achievement, Citizenship and Attendance. The school, through a clear focus on quality Learning and Teaching, and the number of staff trained in Cooperative Learning, Reasoning and Reacting and Restorative approaches, is well placed to focus on the quality of all Relationships as the central tenet in the school’s own curriculum for excellence agenda.

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SECTION 27: EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES / OUT OF SCHOOL HOURS LEARNING TAYLOR HIGH SCHOOL TECHNOLOGY SCHOOL OF AMBITION School Achievements and Events in 2009-10 Preparing for Curriculum for Excellence The school has been working in partnership with North Lanarkshire Council to ensure that our accommodation meets the needs of a 21st century curriculum. While a full refurbishment of the school will take place at some point in the future, the school has worked closely with council colleagues to deliver a number of key accommodation upgrades which are now in place. These include: • A state of the art Recording Studio housed in the Music Department • A state of the art Digital Design Studio • A Nurture Room • A Multi-purpose Room • A Hairdressing Salon These upgrades to accommodation complemented a major overhaul of ICT hardware linked to Learning and Teaching which has left every teaching area with an Interactive Whiteboard and many departments with significant additional technological resources. These important upgrades were funded jointly by the school using funding from the Government’s School of Ambition Programme and North Lanarkshire Council. As a result of these initiatives the school is well placed to deal with the demands of a Curriculum for Excellence over the next few years. SQA Examination Summary – 2010 Fourth Year Credit/Intermediate 2 awards (Pre-appeal) • In the analysis carried out nationally the school ranked 4th when compared with 20 other schools of similar profile. This was a very good performance in an authority context. • The percentage of pupils achieving 5 or more Standard Grade Credit Level/ Intermediate 2 awards was 33% in 2010. This maintained the school’s performance at over 30% Credit/Intermediate 2 awards in each of the last four years. • A total of 22 students achieved all Credit awards or equivalent in the 2010 diet. • The school continues to outperform its predicted level of attainment at Standard Grade based in authority analysis. 46

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technology school of ambition Some other Statistics • Subjects achieving 100% awards at Grades 1-6 in Standard Grade in 2010 were: Administration, Art & Design, Biology, Business Management, Chemistry, Computing Studies, Craft & Design, Engineering Craft Skills, Geography ,Graphic Communication, History, Home Economics, Modern Studies, Music, Physical Education, Physics, Spanish, Urdu, Woodworking.

This reflects the work done in partnership with Learning and Leisure Services on target-setting with pupils as well as a range of other inputs, both internal e.g. Supported Study and school-based Easter provision, and external, e.g. from other providers and authority initiatives such as Outward Bound.

Fifth Year Higher Grade Awards (Pre-appeal) • In the analysis carried out nationally the school ranked 4th when compared with 20 other schools of similar profile. This was a very good performance in an authority context. • The percentage of pupils achieving 3 or more Higher Grade awards at a ‘C’ grade or better was 24% in 2010. • The school has improved this figure in each of the last four years. The school continues to outperform its predicted level of attainment at Higher Grade based in authority analysis. Some other Statistics In Fifth Year the following subjects achieved 100% awards at Grades A-C…… • Higher & Intermediate 2 Art & Design, Intermediate 2 Creative Cake Production, Intermediate 1 Creative Digital Media, Intermediate 1 & 2 Engineering Craft Skills, Intermediate 2 English for Speakers of Other Languages, Higher and Intermediate 2 French, Higher Graphical Communication, Intermediate 2 Health and Food Technology, Intermediate 2 Hospitality (Practical Cookery), Higher & Intermediate 2 Information Systems, Intermediate 1 Modern Studies, Higher Music, Higher & Intermediate 2 Physical Education, Higher Spanish, Intermediate 1 Travel and Tourism, Intermediate 2 Woodworking Skills. At Advanced Higher in 2010 all 6 candidates in Advanced Higher Grade Art and Design achieved an A-C award. Similarly, in Advanced Higher Grade Chemistry, all 6 candidates achieved a grade A-C and in Advanced Higher Grade English, all 5 candidates achieved a grade A-C. In addition one student achieved the Scottish Baccalaureate in Science with distinction and was one of only two students in North Lanarkshire to achieve this!

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Many Achievements Recorded Over The Past Year Are Worthy Of Highlighting: Taylor Summer Programme A total of 15 First Year pupils attended this year’s Summer School Programme, which took place in the school in August. Pupils were encouraged to get involved in participating in a wide range of workshops including a sports workshop, a street dance activity delivered by Spinal Chord, team building activities, canoeing, mountain biking, self-esteem workshops and a music project delivered by Realtime Music. This event was organised by Home School Partnership Officer, Ian MacFarlane and was attended by Mr Anderson and Mr Roy. Sixth Year Conference Sixth Year Students began their academic year with the annual Sixth Year Conference organised by Mrs. Seggie. The Students had the opportunity to take part in a variety of workshops addressing issues concerning the rights and responsibilities of being a Sixth Year student at Taylor. One of the highlights of the day was the election of the House Captains. The Senior Student Leadership Team were elected as Nicole Bell, Rachel Oates, Paul McGrath, Liam McCormick and Laura Martin. Auschwitz Sixth Year students Sophie Brown and Stephen McNulty took part in the Lessons from Auschwitz project involving a preparation seminar, a one day visit to Poland on Tuesday 15 September 2009 to visit the camp at Auschwitz and a follow-up seminar. Work Experience In September 2009 our Fourth Year had the opportunity to enter the World of Work for one week. Many pupils find “jobs” for themselves, whilst other pupils choose from an extensive database of jobs and all pupils put in an immense amount of preparation through their PSHE courses. This week of work is inevitably invaluable in helping our pupils make important career choices and experience the world of work first hand. Pupils also gained Work Experience SQA Award at Intermediate 1 level as a result of the programme. Thanks to Mrs Ogilvie for her extensive work in this area. Author Visit Theresa Breslin, Carnegie Medal Winning author of 25 books for children, visited Taylor's library and resource centre in October, to speak with pupils about her work, which includes writing the award winning novels, Simon's Challenge and Divided City.

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technology school of ambition Make your Mark Challenge In November, thirty two Third Year pupils enjoyed participating in the Make your Mark Challenge. This is a national competition where pupils work on a mystery enterprise project. The project is designed to give pupils a taster of working in a business where they have to be creative, consider budgets, work to tight deadlines, produce business plans and make presentations. The winning team of James Gibbons, Daniel Fagan, Conor Reynolds, Declan Breen, Dean Docherty and Stephen McShane impressed the Sixth Year judges with their innovative idea "Candy Bottles". First Year Anti-Bullying Enterprise Day In November, First Year pupils enjoyed taking part in an Anti-Bullying/Enterprise Day. On the day the pupils heard a presentation by Linda McAllister of Visit Scotland on Marketing and investigated the problem of Cyber-Bullying in Scottish Schools. Pupils then prepared a Marketing campaign and presentation. The winning entry was prepared by practical section A5 but the competition was a close run thing with a number of other classes also preparing excellent presentations and slogans. Music Success Sixth Year Students, Rachel Oates and Sophie Brown were interviewed recently by Radio Station L107 about the school’s Christmas Song, Give Food to the Many, which was released on iTunes. The song, which was written by Tommy McNally and originally released in vinyl by the school in 1988, was rereleased to raise funds for a variety of charities. Taylor High Carols by Candlelight Concert This year’s Carols by Candlelight concerts were held in St. Francis Xavier Church in Carfin, and was a resounding success with a packed house each night. The concerts were a beautiful combination of Christmas Carols, Readings and secular Christmas music and an opportunity for the Taylor Community to come together and reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. A wide range of musical genres featured in the concerts including choirs, soloists, instrumental bands and much more! All in attendance described the concerts in glowing terms. Once again the Music department led by Miss Cannon and supported by Mr. McLaughlin and Miss Evans did us proud! Christmas Fayre The annual Christmas Fayre took place on Saturday 5 December and was a great success. A sum of around £2,000 was raised as a result of a huge number of stalls, inflatables, a tearoom and a visit from a very famous man in a red suit!!!

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Christmas Parcels A total of 30 Christmas Hampers were sent out to senior citizens residing in the catchment area of Taylor High School. The Hampers contained a variety of groceries and small gifts which pupils collected during registration throughout the month of December. Thanks to everyone who contributed to this and to Miss Ross who organised the parcels. Second Year Anti-Bullying DVD In January, Second Year pupils enjoyed working with Mr. Robert Stewart, Science Technician, to produce DVD’s which highlight the dangers of bullying. The pupils worked hard in PSHE to create a story, write a script and decide on characters for the productions. The pupils then enjoyed getting involved in acting and in the filming and producing of their own movies. This year’s winning movie was produced by class 2.2 and it was unveiled during the weekly Second Year Assembly. Valentines Day Enterprise Pupils enjoyed the opportunity to buy Valentines gifts; including cupcakes, sweets and cookies produced, marketed and sold by Taylor pupils. The venture gave pupils from First to Sixth year an insight into what is involved in running a small business. Glam Metal Fashion Event Staff and Pupils in Taylor's Art and Design department, led by Mrs. Broughan, took part in designing a fashion collection as part of the North Lanarkshire Glam Metal Fashion Show which took place in January in Summerlee Heritage Museum. Garments from 27 Taylor pupils were on display, whilst 6 of our pupils “strutted their stuff” on the catwalk. Sixth Year student Emily Brough assisted with the photography for all of the promotional material which was used for the event. More Choices More Chances The school held a very successful speed networking event in June for pupils who intended to leave school. Our Home School Partnership Officer, Ian MacFarlane and Mrs Weir, DHT, invited representatives from a number of our partners including Skills Development Scotland, Volunteer Action Group, Routes to Work and the Learning Hub, to advise pupils on their leavers destinations. As a result 14 pupils who would otherwise have been without a placement are now in a positive destination. Activate In February nine Fourth Year Pupils had the opportunity to visit Loaningdale House in Biggar where they participated in a number of outdoor activities and exciting challenges. This day was designed to enhance teamwork and allow the students to build on their confidence in preparation for leaving school.

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technology school of ambition K’Nex Cluster Challenge In March, Primary Six pupils from our associated primary schools enjoyed competing in the annual K’Nex Challenge competition. The pupils worked in teams of two to solve a difficult engineering problem using K’Nex modeling sets. The judges were made up of staff and Sixth Year students. Health Day In the summer term, Third Year pupils participated in the schools annual “Health Day”. Pupils attended seminars from the Health Service, Education 4 Life, The Samaritans and workshop on healthy eating as well as the chance to participate in training from The Marines. Thanks to Mr. McQuaid for organising this. Cluster Art Exhibition / Open Evening In June, Taylor hosted an Art Exhibition with our associated primary schools. The event was a resounding success with a huge turnout of parents and pupils. The event was a showcase of the excellent work in enterprise that went on this year in Taylor and in the primary schools. The evening included a musical performance, Scottish poetry recitations, a digital animation and a canapé buffet as well as a professional art gallery displaying the artwork of the pupils from our associated primaries. The event was sponsored by North Lanarkshire Council and First Direct, the school’s business partner. The Prom The annual Senior Prom took place in the Crutherland House Hotel, East Kilbride in June. The students and Mrs McStay worked hard to organise the event which was a huge success. The students looked resplendent in their evening wear and everyone had a wonderful time. Primary 7 Induction Days Taylor welcomed the new First Year pupils in June, for a two day induction block which gave them a taster of life in High School. The pupils enjoyed following their timetable for one day and also took part in activities including Food Tasting, meeting Sixth Year to learn about High School Life, a Treasure Hunt, Free Running and Zumba. The Induction Days are intended to make coming to High School that little bit less daunting for our Primary Seven pupils! Trip to France A group of 35 Third Year pupils and four members of staff enjoyed a trip to France in June. The party visited the battlefields of Ypres, enjoyed the beautiful sights of Paris and spent a day at Disneyland. Thanks to Mrs kerr for organising and leading the trip and to Mrs. Convery, Mr. McMahon and Mr. Lewis for going along.

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Charities and Fund-Raising Events Taylor has a long tradition of supporting charities and this year was no exception. The year started off when staff and pupils prepared forty backpacks for Mary’s Meals in August. In October, Hospitality Students hosted a Coffee Morning for staff to raise funds for MacMillan Cancer Care. Over £3,700 was raised for the school fund when pupils were treated/subjected to a sponsored monster assault course and rodeo Bull Fundraiser in November. In response to the Haiti disaster, an appeal was organised by Sixth Year Students who swapped their common room “the Mezz” with the staffroom for the day. In Lent, a number of fund-raising events took place to raise funds for SCIAF, including; various class Cake and Candy stalls a Crazy Hair and Tie Day, a Blind Date event and a slave auction. Staff and pupils climbed Ben Nevis to raise funds for St. Andrew’s Hospice and ninety First Year pupils climbed Tinto Hill. Finally, £450 was raised for the Mary’s Meals charity by our Art exhibition in June.

DEPARTMENTAL ACHIEVEMENTS IN 2009-10 ART & DESIGN Kilbowie Summer School Exhibition - Summerlee Sixth Year students Colette Murphy, Louise Foy and Emily Brough contributed to an exhibition of photography, print-making, jewellery and painting at Summerlee. The girls were selected to attend the NLC Summer School for S6 pupils in June 2009. Heriot Watt School of Textiles Printed Textiles Workshop Sixth Year student Louise Foy was invited to attend a two day workshop at the College campus in Galashields. She produced printed textiles related to research she undertook at the Kilbowie Summer School. Industry Links – Fashion Photo Shoot Former pupils – fashion designer Christopher Kane and his business partner Tammy Kane returned to Taylor High for a day in November to produce a fashion shoot for the magazine “10”. The magazine was profiling Tammy who was modelling Christopher’s new collection for the Versace Collection “Versus”. Christopher wanted to use his old school as a backdrop for the photographs. While he was here he took time out to meet the S3 Lunchtime Art Group and chatted to them about his work and the fashion industry. French photographer Pierre Bailey and a team from the London-based magazine came to the school which allowed Higher Photography students the opportunity to experience a real life fashion shoot. Higher Photography for the Media – New Course The Art and Design department were happy to launch a new Higher course, Digital Photography, for S6 students. Eleven of them were successfully presented for the award and they produced a wide variety of practical photography projects while developing their digital editing skills in the new Design Studio.

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technology school of ambition Taylor High Christmas Card S3 pupils were invited to design a Christmas card for the school. The high standard of entries meant that 3 designs were chosen to send out. The winners were Stephanie Caldow, Marie Foy and Mariann Gallery. Glam Metal Fashion Event at Summerlee Museum of Scottish Industrial Life The fashion show was designed to showcase the fashion, textile and jewellery work created in 16 Art and Design departments across North Lanarkshire. Over 200 garments were designed and manufactured by students and the show took place in January 2010. Throughout the school year, pupils in S3, S5 and S6 worked hard to produce work for this event and 27 garments were finally selected and shown. The S3 Lunchtime Club took part in a competition to design a garment on the theme of Industrial Heritage, with the winning design being made up for the show. Yet again, the high quality of entrants resulted in two designs being selected, belonging to Mariann Gallery and Stephanie Caldow. Colette Murphy represented the school in the Pupil Working Group, an enterprising group of individuals who organised this prestigious event. Six pupils were auditioned and selected to model in the show over 4 performances Emma Campbell, Rachel Peattie, Rachel Houston, Louise Foy, Amna Saleem and Joanna Rennie. Additionally, Emily Brough was part of the team responsible for photographing and filming the performances. This was a wonderful event, which showed off the varied artistic talents of our pupils. Further Study in Art and Design The following pupils have successfully gained places to study Art and Design. Congratulations to all of them. Colette Murphy Louise Foy Iqra Nawaz Sarah Taylor Emily Brough Eilidh McKibben Monica Day

Cardonald College Cardonald College Cardonald College Cardonald College Abertay University Motherwell College Motherwell College

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Fashion and Textiles Fashion and Textiles Fashion and Textiles Fashion and Textiles Film and Photography Photography Photography

School Handbook 2011/2012

BIOLOGY Biology is a very popular subject in Taylor and this is demonstrated by the very high numbers who opt to study the subject in both middle and upper school. Biology at Easter School was very busy this year, as were the weekly lunch-time tutorials which are provided for all students. The Biology department continues to extend the amount of co-operative learning being used in all classes; this greatly enhances pupil motivation and performance. In October, all S1 and S2 pupils enjoyed the ‘Lab in a Lorry’ experience. The pupils were given the opportunity to carry out fun experiments and talk to practising scientists and engineers The Advanced Higher class attended workshops on DNA extraction and PCR at The Beatson Oncology Centre. This gave them invaluable practical experience and an insight into the importance of Biology in modern medicine, Meanwhile students from the Biology and Chemistry departments, Lewis Reilly, Christopher Jordan, Chloe Gallagher, Mariann Gallery, Catherine Freel, Peter Byrne, Anna Connelly and Christopher Cullion, attended a Biochemical challenge at the University of the West of Scotland. First Year Science pupils enjoyed a visit from Glasgow Science Centre in June. Pupils were given the opportunity to carry out exciting experiments and attend a science show; an informative and enjoyable time was had by all. Biology staff, along with chemistry and physics colleagues, are running a science club at lunch times on a Tuesday for S1 pupils, this has proven to be a great success.

BUSINESS & COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY Business Management The department presented pupils for Standard Grade Business Management for the first time with great success. 86% of pupils achieved a credit grade. Higher & Intermediate II Business Management will be delivered by the department in 2010/2011. Skills for Work The department also successfully delivered Creative Digital Media for the first time this year. This course develops the skills of the pupils in vocational based situations. Following on from the success of this course the department will also be delivering Skills for Work Retailing at Intermediate II level in 2010/2011.

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technology school of ambition Internet Games Club This club was successfully run by Mr. Heron throughout the year. This club gave lower school pupils the opportunity to hone their on-line gaming skills on a weekly basis. Internet Fantasy Football Competition League Winners 1st 2nd 3rd

James Scott Mrs Colgan Mitchell McGarry-Wilson

F.A. Cup Joint Winners - Mr Lewis & Miss Ross Staff Wooden Spoon - Mr Heron

CHEMISTRY Co-operative Learning and aspects of Formative Assessment were used to great effect in the Chemistry department. The students enjoyed a Chemistry version of “Who Wants to be a Millionaire” during revision and as a result learning continues to be greatly enhanced. Chemistry tutorials for Standard Grade and Higher students continued to run last year and were well attended by students. In September 2009 sixteen pupils attended “Chemistry in the Workplace” at Strathclyde University. This gave students an insight into chemistry in industry. It was an enjoyable and worthwhile experience for all who attended. In October all S1 and S2 students attended the “Lab in a Lorry” experience. This was an interactive mobile science laboratory staffed by practising scientists and engineers. This event gave our young scientists the opportunity to do experimental science the way it actually happens. At the options information evening in February a number of S3 and S4 students came along to the department to demonstrate a number of fun experiments to pupils and parents. “Noisy” putty was a definite favourite! In May eight students enjoyed participating in a Biochemistry Challenge at the University of the West of Scotland. The following students represented the Biology and Chemistry departments at this event: Lewis Reilly, Christopher Jordan, Chloe Gallacher, Mariann Gallery, Catherine Freel, Peter Byrne, Anna Connelly and Christopher Cullion.

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The Taylor High Chemistry Club have taken part in the Salter’s Chemistry Challenge for the fourth time this year. This event is run by The Salter’s Institute in conjunction with Glasgow University and SEPA. Well done to Ben Cerinus, Laura Davidson, Liam Grant and Lauren McCluskey for their excellent participation in this annual event. They will receive certificates tonight. This year the club is running in conjunction with the Biology and Physics department. The science Club is held on a Tuesday at lunchtime and has so far been very well attended. The students have designed and launched their own rockets and most recently made “bouncing custard balls”. In June four Taylor High Chemistry pupils were among a total of 25 students who attended a 3 day residential Chemistry Camp at Heriot Watt University. Here the students took part in laboratory investigations, lectures and social activities. Well done to Jennifer Fallon, Katie McGuiness, Sean Houston and Briony Sands for gaining a place in this highly sought after event. In June all S1 science students enjoyed a visit from Glasgow Science Centre. The Outreach programme gave students the opportunity to be involved in workshops with interactive exhibits and to attend an exciting live science show. The feedback from the students was extremely positive. There’s been a murder! A group of four Standard Grade Chemistry students won first place in Forensic Analysis at the Festival of Chemistry. This “CSI” event was held at the Paisley campus of the University of the West of Scotland. Congratulations go to Lewis Reilly, Rebecca Hughes, Gerard Smith and Michelle Robb for their hard work and excellent forensic investigative skills. In August Paul McGrath was the first Taylor High School student to gain the Scottish Baccalaureate Award. Paul embarked on this challenge in August 2009 and produced an Interdisciplinary Project which saw him gain a distinction in this (one of only two in the whole authority). Well done to Paul for his hard work and commitment to this new qualification.

ENGLISH In September some Second Year pupils attended an author workshop with Keith Gray. In October a group of Third Year pupils attended an author workshop with Theresa Breslin. A group of Higher students undertook a “Romeo and Juliet” workshop with members of Cumbernauld Theatre. There was also a cinema trip for First Year pupils to see “Coraline” as part of National Film Week In November a group of First Year pupils began writing to pupils from Shetland as part of their study of “A Stranger Came Ashore”. This activity continued throughout the session.

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technology school of ambition In March pupils from S1-S3 were involved in the Design a Bookmark Competition organised in conjunction with the Librarian, Miss Dougan, as part of World Book Day. This month also saw the participation of a Third Year group in the BBC School Report projects. Pupils worked hard to produce an exciting and interesting web page which can be accessed via the school website. In June four pupils from S1 participated in the Cluster Art Exhibition which took place in the school. Their part of the performance was a lively and enjoyable dramatisation of three poems in Scots.

GEOGRAPHY Higher Geography students visited various locations around the city of Glasgow as part of their ‘Urban Change + It’s Management’ Unit of Study. Fifth and Sixth Year Travel and Tourism students visited Edinburgh to experience tourist provision in the City by visiting the major sites and places of interest. In addition, as an Enterprise activity under the title of ‘Taylor Travel Centre’. This group provided school staff members with a range of information on destinations and travel arrangements.

HISTORY/MODERN STUDIES The History and Modern Studies Department have been working closely with the Geography Department to develop a new Social Subjects course for S1. This new course, which focuses on the theme of Scotland, embraces all aspects of the Curriculum for Excellence. It contributes to the development of literacy and numeracy skills while allowing pupils to gain knowledge in all aspects of Social Studies. Pupils will also develop their own personal qualities allowing them to become effective contributors and confident individuals. The Department organised a series of educational excursions in conjunction with the RE Department. This involved First Year pupils going for a whole day to Edinburgh, visiting two centres of activity, Edinburgh Castle and Bibleworld. It was an excellent introduction for the year group who thoroughly enjoyed the excursions. The Department held a mock election with First Year Modern Studies pupils. The pupils were responsible for organising the entire event from choosing the candidates and the party’s manifesto to electioneering and counting the votes. This was in conjunction with the Living in a Democracy unit.

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HOME ECONOMICS The Home Economics Department has had another successful year with all year groups benefitting from a wide range of activities which have enhanced the curriculum. First Year The Department continued its involvement in the Home Safety Awareness programme and pupils attended presentations given by Teresa Murphy, the Home Safety officer for NLC. All S1 classes took part in workshops and a poster competition. The overall winners Aksah Ashraf, Louise Winchester, Robyn Green, Kevin Murray, Nicole Wallace, Stephen Perkins and Erin Smith were presented with a certificate and prizes to reward them for their hard work. There has been a very positive feedback from this as the pupils found it very informative and they all contributed well during class discussions. S1 pupils, Danielle Brown, Amy McNamara, Niamh Hattie and Aksah Ashraf took part in a cake competition run by the Abingdon Hotel in South Lanarkshire to design a cake suitable for Mother’s Day. Their cakes were much admired and they were narrowly pipped at the post to win the competition. A great effort! Second Year S2 pupils enjoyed the Muffin Challenge competition which took place before the summer break. The project was a huge success with all of S2 taking part. The pupils could choose to work independently or in pairs and had to design their own muffin which would be suitable for sale in the school. It raised the confidence of individuals allowing them to make informed choices and decisions while creating and developing new products. The project culminated in the winners having the opportunity to produce and sell their successful dish. The competition was judged by Ms Kennedy, catering manager, Miss Stark, Mrs Kellison, Miss Hamilton, Mrs Devlin DHT, Mr Brown, Classroom Assistant and Mr Phairs. S2 pupils, Gabrielle Connarty and Siobhan Slavin also took part in the cake competition run by the Abingdon Hotel. They developed a fantastic meringue creation which judges thought had been made by much older and more experienced cooks so well done to them! Third and Fourth Year S3 pupils were given the opportunity to take part in workshops run by Metropolitan College to build on their food preparation and knife skills. They also took part in workshops run by the NLC safety officer to broaden their knowledge of safety in the home which is an integral part of their course work. Hospitality This year, Hospitality students excelled themselves by their commitment and enthusiasm to the wider life of the school. Students worked tirelessly to produce food for various events on the school calendar such as the senior citizens Christmas lunch and the Bishop’s Mass. Well done to all those who worked both in the preparation, during and after these events.

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technology school of ambition The Hospitality pupils were given a demonstration of knife skills by Kenneth Hett, Chief Lecturer at Metropolitan College, Glasgow and took part in workshops to perfect their skills and raise their attainment in SQA practical exams. Health and Food Technology As well as the high level of commitment shown by these S5/6 pupils, the class organised and ran the Macmillan Cancer Support coffee morning and raised £150 for an excellent cause. They also used their product development skills to devise new products to sell at Taylor’s annual Christmas Fayre. A Food Technology Lecturer from Caledonian University visited the class in March and held a series of workshops to highlight consumer issues linked to product development. This was very interesting and informative and reinforced work being done in class. Creative Cake This course has been well received and students have had the opportunity to learn many new cake decoration skills. The students have produced an excellent variety of cakes ranging from a fabulous Lady Gaga cake to fantastic Secret Garden cake. An external examiner confirmed that the pupils have achieved a very high standard with their work. This group also took part in an Enterprise fundraising event in February by making Valentine biscuits and cakes. Extra Curricular Clubs S1 pupils were given the opportunity to come to a textile club and a creative cake club which were very well attended during lunchtimes.

LEARNING FOR LIFE In September 2009, our Fourth Year pupils were given the opportunity of entering the world of work for a week to take part in the Work Experience programme. Many pupils take the opportunity to organise their own Work Experience placement which gives them an indication of the career path which is best suited to them. Other pupils chose from an extensive database of employers provided by North Lanarkshire Council. In October, Sixth Year students organised a Halloween disco for First Year pupils. This cemented the buddying programme in the school whilst allowing Sixth Year students to gain experience in events management. First Year pupils participated fully in Anti-Bullying week by having an AntiBullying Conference within the school. Pupils were given one day off timetable to discuss the topic of bullying, in particular cyber-bullying, and the negative effects that it can have on young people. Linda McAllister from Visit Scotland spoke to pupils about marketing and the pupils were then given the task of producing their own marketing campaign and presentation to raise awareness of the dangers of cyber-bullying in our modern world. 59

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In November, Third Year pupils took part in the ‘Make your Mark’ challenge where pupils were given the task of inventing something useful, new and environmentally friendly using inspiration from their local surroundings. Third Year pupils also enjoyed the opportunity to get involved in the Christmas Fayre and designed a variety of products suitable to be sold. The pupils were then responsible for making, packaging, pricing and advertising their products as well as selling them on the day. Pupils were supported by mentors from First Direct, the schools Business partner. In November, January and February, a total of 36 pupils enjoyed a week at Loch Eil on Outward Bound; each group was accompanied by a member of staff. In February, Sixth Year pupils designed products which they sold at a mini Valentines Fayre within the school. In March, we welcomed teams from our associated Primary Schools for the annual K’Nex challenge in association with Young Engineers Scotland. In June, First Direct delivered a Money Management workshop to Fifth Year students. Pupils were given the task of designing an ideal bank account. The purpose of the event was to highlight the importance of having a bank account and also draw the students attention to the benefits of shopping around when choosing a bank account. Finally, the year concluded with a showcase/Art Exhibition. The event was an interdisciplinary task carried out by our associated primaries along with us and was based on the theme; Scotland. At this event, we displayed a huge amount of art-work, had some wonderful Scottish Music and poetry recitations. The turnout for this event was enormous and is testament to the importance that our parents and carers place on Enterprise as part of their children’s learning experience.

MATHEMATICS Some 54 senior students participated in the annual “Maths Camp” in March of this year. This weekend gives pupils the opportunity to spend time preparing for their forthcoming examination in either Higher or Advanced Higher Mathematics with teachers from the department in attendance. As part of our Health Promoting School pupils are also given the opportunity to participate in an Outdoor Activity such as Canoeing, Mountain Biking and Rock Climbing. Each year Students report the view that this as an excellent opportunity to get as wet as possible! An excellent time was had by both pupils and staff hopefully all the extra tuition and hard work will be rewarded by good passes in the final examinations. A large number of pupils participated in the UK Mathematics Challenge in both the lower and middle school. Middle School achieved 3 Silver and 13 Bronze awards. Lower School achieved 2 Silver and 17 Bronze awards. Well done to the Pupils Involved. 60

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technology school of ambition A group of Fourth Year Students participated in the cross curricular event ‘Mathématiques sans Frontières’ competition. This competition challenges the pupils to answer maths questions in French. Four middle school pupils represented the school in the North Lanarkshire Mathematics Challenge last month. The group performed very well on the day and were a credit to the school. The department continues to offer its breakfast club and after school study classes throughout the year.

MODERN LANGUAGES There was a high level of attainment achieved in Higher Results in both French and Spanish in the 2010 diet of exams. Two of last year’s S6 students are now studying languages at University. Meanwhile Standard Grade results also improved in the department. The department continues the pupil of the month incentive scheme to encourage pupils in the lower school. Certificates and prizes are awarded for attainment, effort and behaviour. Mass was celebrated in both French and Spanish with pupils and staff delivering the readings in the relevant language. European Day of Languages was celebrated and enjoyed by staff and pupils. This involved the school canteen cooking European food. The Home Economics Department joined in with this cooking theme. S6 provided European music. Prizes were given to staff and pupils who completed a quiz and Christ the King Primary school won the poster competition to design a poster advocating the importance of learning languages. The department dressed up in costumes. The Euro club continues in the school bringing European themes to Taylor. The club meets weekly and explores European issues and topical themes. Pupils experience films in a foreign language. Visits have taken place to the Glasgow Film Theatre for upper and middle school pupils. North Lanarkshire Cultural team visited the school to meet with S1 and S2 pupils. 35 Third Year pupils enjoyed a fantastic trip to Belgium and France in June 2010. Accompanied by four members of staff they have many memories of their visit to the Tyne Cot Cemetery, the In Flanders Museum and the sounding of The Last Post at the Menin Gate. A sightseeing boat trip along the River Seine and a day in Euro Disney were other highlights of this fabulous continental experience. Pupils in the department are encouraged to take part in and enjoy languages. Pupils are always welcome in the department for any extra support that they need in their study of languages. 61

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MUSIC Peripatetic Music Examinations String students were entered for graded examinations for the Royal Associated Board Examinations with a 100% pass rate. Extra-Curricular A number of groups operate in the departments including a: Brass Ensemble Wind Ensemble Jazz Band String Orchestra Vocal Ensemble Rock Band School Choir Guitar Club The departments is open every day at morning interval and lunchtime for any student who wishes to practice. September BBC Proms – Royal Albert Hall In her capacity as a member of the Royal Scottish National Junior Chorus, Fourth Year Music student Amanda Connolly performed at the Royal Albert Hall in London. She also performed at the Edinburgh International Festival, BBC Proms in the Park and has worked with Scottish Opera. Amanda is an excellent ambassador for the school and indeed North Lanarkshire. Primary 7 Welcome Mass Members of the School Band and Choir led the musical liturgy in this service. First Year pupils in particular took active roles. October Launch of Performance Report for North Lanarkshire Council Members of the Taylor Choir who are also involved in the North Lanarkshire Schools’ Chorus were selected to perform at this highly prestigious event. Our pupils were a credit to the school and N.L.C. Patron’s Day Mass The School Choir and Band led the musical liturgy for this important occasion. A new Mass was specially composed with musical arrangements by members of the choir and instrumentalists. This year saw the inclusion of a staff pupil band.

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technology school of ambition November Association of Chief Executives Scotland Members of our school chorus in collaboration with North Lanarkshire schools Chorus performed at the above conference. Our students received a standing ovation and were highly complemented on their performance by educationalists from the various authorities in Scotland. N.L.C Battle of the Bands The School Rock Band-‘The Two Bob Rockets’ won through to the final of North Lanarkshire Council’s Battle of the Bands. This was a tremendous achievement for the Band and an excellent opportunity as well as an experience that they will never forget. Sixth Year student Rachel Oates also performed at this event as part of the North Lanarkshire Rock Collective. December North Lanarkshire Christmas Concert for Senior Pupils A large number of students were involved in the Bands and the Schools Chorus Concert held in the Motherwell Concert Hall. The concert was a resounding success with Taylor pupils gaining solo parts after hard fought auditions. North Lanarkshire Christmas Concert for Junior Students Again, large numbers of our students were involved in the above event held at Motherwell Concert Hall. This comprised the Junior Chorus, Preparatory Band and the Wind Band. Again a highly successful night for all involved. Carols by Candlelight The above event has become a major annual fixture in the Taylor calendar. The concert was taken forward on a grander scale this year. Working in collaboration with our associated primary schools, a large number of our primary students performed as part of primary/secondary liaison initiative. The concert was pupil led and the success of it was the result of hard work and excellent teamwork from staff and pupils. The concert included performances by a number of solo instrumentalists, the school jazz band and school string ensemble with a wide variety of music on offer. An excellent community event! Senior Citizens Concert Pupils were given the opportunity, after the success of “Candles by Candlelight” to musically direct this event. They did the department proud with all of their efforts. Carol Service The band and choir led the annual service for the school community at the end of term.

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April North Lanarkshire Spring Concert A large number of our students participated in the North Lanarkshire Orchestras, Pipe Band, Junior Chorus, Senior Chorus and the North Lanarkshire Collective Rock Band at the Royal Concert Hall. This is a highly successful event, and participation in these groups encourages high levels of commitment and professionalism in our students. Supercounty Show Taylor was again well represented at this event which features talent from both North and South Lanarkshire. Tapestry Conference Sixth Year student Rachel Oates represented the school at this event, as part of the North Lanarkshire Rock Collective, which was held in the Royal Concert Hall and was attended by an international body of educationalists. June North Lanarkshire Schools’ Pipe Band Fourth Year Student Josh Irving has been involved in a number of ventures since joining this highly successful band. The band have performed as prematch entertainment at European Football Ties, been involved in a number of Championships and were winners of the Shotts, Bearsden, Gourock, Pitlochry and Helensburgh Highland Games. Papal Visit A group of Third Year Standard Grade students took forward the brief they were given about commemorating the papal visit. Using composition, which is an integral part of their curriculum, they were to become involved in something which would not only be historic for them, but also for the school and North Lanarkshire as a whole. The group were given a prestigious honour by being invited to perform their truly spectacular hymn called “Faith” live at Bellahouston Park on the occasion of the Papal Visit on Thursday 16th September. A video of the group’s performance, which was shot at Carfin Grotto and subsequently edited by Robert Stewart, Senior Technician at the school, was played on the screens at Bellahouston on the day and was also used at other venues visited by the Pope during his visit to Britain. This is a huge compliment to the school, the only mainstream secondary school in Scotland who performed on the day, and is a tribute to the quality of the work done both on the musical side by Fiona Cannon and her team and by Robert Stewart in producing a high quality video in a very short time!

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technology school of ambition Recording Studio The department look forward to the official opening of the new digital recording studio in the school. This is a state of the art production suite and is equipped with top of the range professional software and hardware. The aim is to use this facility to allow us to continue to give our students the opportunity to produce work that not only benefits their curricular goals but also enhances all aspects of their musical education while instilling a determination to succeed.

PARTNERSHIP WORKING Examples of partnership work undertaken by the school’s Home School Partnership Officer, Ian MacFarlane, over the past year at Taylor High School: Summer Transition School Summer programme of activities in relation to providing P7 pupils with the opportunity to further opportunity to familiarise themselves with the new school environment whilst taking part in activities aimed at developing social skills, selfconfidence and team building. First Year Support Group A group providing support in relation to self-confidence, social skills and motivation to a group of First Year pupils experiencing difficulties settling into secondary school. Individual Pupil Support Ongoing one to one support to pupils with the aim of addressing identified issues in relation to anger management, peer pressure, personal responsibility, selfesteem and behaviour in the school and the wider community. Buddy Scheme A Buddy Scheme operates at Taylor where Sixth Year students support First Year pupils throughout their first year at Secondary School. Duke of Edinburgh Award Group A group of seven Fourth Year Pupils are currently working towards the Bronze level Duke of Edinburgh Award which entails the completion of 4 sections including Physical, Skills, Volunteering and an overnight Expedition project. North Lanarkshire Challenge Group A group comprising of Second and Third Year pupils working towards the NL Challenge Award where they complete 4 sections including Skills, Physical, Service and Adventure. Activities already undertaken include Graffiti Art Project, Fund Raising for Charity, Indoor Climbing and an Adventure Walk. Eight pupils completed the Emerald level award this year and will be presented with their certificates at the Celebrate Success Event.

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Co-delivery of Princes Trust XL Programme A programme aimed at building self-esteem, developing social skills, raising awareness of the world of work and improving behaviour in school. More Choices More Chances Programme Supporting a group of 8 pupils in relation to preparing them for leaving school in terms of interview skills, application forms, Curriculum Vitae and sign-posting to appropriate agency/ opportunity. Other activities include: S5 Induction workshops S6 Conference Workshops P7 Induction Day Workshops Home visits where appropriate

PHYSICAL EDUCATION 2009/2010 has once again proven to be a very successful year for the Physical Education department with pupils participating in a wide range of sporting events. Gymnastics The gymnastics club continued to attract the highest number of pupils participating in extra- curricular activities. Club events included representing the school in the North Lanark Championships and the Taylor biannual display. Senior pupils very ably assisted with the choreography of some of the sports acrobatic routines and many of the duties of this successful evening including sound and lighting. Highlights of the display included the first ever sports acrobatics routine on high apparatus and synchronised Trampolining.

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technology school of ambition Dance Uptake and interest in the dance club run by Pamela Killearn remained high and the girls participated in the St Maurice’s festival and the school display. The girls were responsible for their own choreography and the styles of dance ranged from hip-hop/street dance to jazz. Fourth Year pupil Ben Green also danced in the school dance display was a sensation and proved to be immensely popular with the audience Football During 2009 – 2010 the school had four teams participating in leagues and several pupils involved in the ‘Soccer One’ initiative sponsored by North Lanarkshire and the SFA. Both the under 14 and under 15 performed well in the league and finished in the runners – up position. The under 15 team did well to reach the quarter finals of the Scottish Cup. Ian Mc Shane who was captain of the under 18 team has progressed into professional football and is now playing for Queen of the South and achieving a regular place in the first team Athletics Championships The level of competition in the S1 – S3 Athletics Championships was very high this year. In keeping with previous years some of the competitions were closely contested with the pupils below emerging as champions: First Year Boys Champion: First Year Girls Champion: Second Year Boys Champion: Second Year Girls Champion: Third Year Boys Pentathlon: Third Year Girls Pentathlon:

Jack Shearer Megan McCarroll Aidan McKinnon Eloise Keenan Conor McCormick Claire Gollogly

House Tournaments The house tournaments were held in September 2009 and involved pupils from First Year to fourth year. Fourth Year pupils competed for the first time since the introduction of the event. It was encouraging to see a range of house teams emerging as winners. The results are as follows. First Year Second Year Third Year Fourth Year

St Margaret’s House St Andrew’s House St John Ogilvie House St Columba House

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Extra- Curricular Clubs We were delighted to see the introduction of a number of new clubs this year including hockey, basketball, cheerleading and tennis. Senior pupils enhanced the extra- curricular activities in our feeder primaries through working as volunteers to deliver volleyball, badminton, basketball and gymnastics. We hope to further develop the programme in the 2010/2011 year with the introduction of Free – running and Zumba. North Lanarkshire Scholarship Scheme Taylor High School had the highest number of volunteers in the summer scholarship programme run by Active Schools. During the course the pupils had the opportunity to gain coaching qualifications in football, rugby, Tops and badminton, as well as a first aid qualification. They also gained knowledge of child protection procedures and disability inclusion. From this they volunteered at Newarthill Family Fun Day and will be taking part in events such as the Delhi handover event at Ravenscraig Sports Centre and other regional events throughout the year

PHYSICS Supported Study and Easter School provision was made for all pupils studying for prelims & SQA exams. Once again, Advanced Higher Physics students attended the annual lecture/ workshop day at Strathclyde University Subsequently, the students were able to make use of the laboratory facilities of Strathclyde University to carry out the practical activities for the Investigation unit of the course. SMARTBoards and the FlashLearning packages were used extensively by students at all stages thereby underlining the department’s commitment to integrating ICT in line with Taylor High’s Technology School of Ambition status.

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION Pastoral Committee Pupils were involved in the pastoral committee this year. They served as readers and were involved in making decisions on the organisation of the pastoral life of the school. Speakers A variety of speakers visited classes including the Samaritans who discussed issues surrounding stress and Education4Life who delivered talks to all S5 classes on abortion as well as Let the Children Live, a charity involved in helping Street Children in Colombia.

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technology school of ambition Sixth Year Conference Sixth Year students took part in a conference involving all of the secondary schools in the diocese. Liturgical Programme Pupils were involved in the liturgical life of the school as readers at Masses. Penitential services took place during Advent and Lent. A variety of Stations of the Cross events were held during Lent for S1, S3, S4 and S6. There was also a programme of Oratory services to pray for success at the start of the school year as well as at exam time. Mass Mass was celebrated daily during Advent and Lent. Health and Relationships Day An S3 Health and Relationships day was held to help pupils learn about relationships and the issues surrounding them. This involved speakers from a variety of outside agencies. Senior Citizens Lunch A Christmas show and lunch for Senior Citizens was held which also featured a Christmas play performed by S1 pupils and produced by a team of S4 pupils. Christmas Parcels Donations for Christmas parcels were collected during registration and RE which were then delivered to more than 40 local senior citizens. Taize Prayer Services The school’s chaplain Fr Kenny Campbell delivered a number of Taize prayer services for S5 pupils. Auschwitz Two pupils from the school visited Auschwitz as part of the national Lessons from Auschwitz programme run by the Holocaust Education Trust. Lenten Charities A number of fund raising events took place to raise money for a variety of charities. Kamwokya Work was done on strengthening the school’s ties with Kamwokya, including a visit by members of staff to visit the partnership in Uganda.

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SUPPORT FOR LEARNING The department have been involved in a number of successful initiatives some of which are listed below: Computer Literacy Programme A group of First Year pupils achieved success through Reading Academy; this was measured by improvements in the reading ages of the students who participated. Motherwell College link Three Fifth Year students achieved success through participation in the Independent Link Programme. This is a programme run by Motherwell College which gives upper school students the opportunity to sample various courses run by the college in order to help them decide on future studies or career paths. Two of the participants were offered places and are now studying there. Homework Club A group of First and Second Year pupils regularly attended the lunchtime homework club to assist them with course work. Sixth Year Conference Sixth Year students were encouraged to take part in Peer Tutoring. As a result a number of students successfully supported younger pupils in Maths and English. The students who participated had their achievements recognised and gained MV awards. Spelling Programme First and Second Year pupils who participated in the spelling programme were awarded certificates to mark their success. Seasons for Growth A group of First Year pupils successfully completed the programme. This programme is aimed to support students who have experienced bereavement through separation, divorce or the death of a loved one. Enterprise/Easter Egg raffle £50 was raised for the school fund through this activity. Two of the students who benefited from the Seasons for Growth Programme raised £50 for a celebration session through the raffle.

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BEHAVIOUR SUPPORT XL XL is a personal development programme run by the school and supported by the Prince’s Trust. It aims to reach young people who require some support in order to increase motivation, improve attitude and attendance, raise self-esteem, develop their potential, enable achievement and ultimately avoid exclusion from school. The pupils are involved in a diverse range of activities while certain competencies and skills are targeted. The group is established through participation in a two week induction programme and runs throughout Third and Fourth year. This year for the first time XL in Taylor will be accredited by the SQA following the Personal Development Programme at Access 3 and Intermediate 2 levels. Activities, which the group participated in this year, include: • The group taking part in the North Lanarkshire ‘Arts and Employability Project’. Where the young people were able to take part in a variety of diverse workshops such as drama, music production and the creation of light art. • The group researching the issues pertaining to knife crime as part of their community awareness unit. This involved the pupils speaking with both the police and community groups. They also had the opportunity to work with a Community Artist who helped them create their own canvas of the issues explored. • The group created their own video centred on football, looking at skills and developing teamwork. • In preparation for their Enterprise contribution to the annual Christmas Fayre, the group created decorative cards and organised guess The Reindeer’s name raffle. The money raised was given to the school fund. • All members worked with our Home School Partnership Officer to help prepare him or her for the right Work Experience option and as a group through discussion evaluated each person’s experience. • A small number of the group have stayed at school to complete Fifth Year while others were successful in securing places in work, college or at The Hub where they have worked hard to obtain placements in work or at college. We are extremely proud of all the XL young people who have embraced the XL experience in Taylor High School, developed their skills through working as a team and hopefully securing a rewarding career.

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Nurture The Nurture Room underwent a complete refurbishment this year and it is now firmly established within the school. Considerable funding for this investment came from: School funds, SOA monies, The Inclusion Support Base and The Parent Council. The aim of Nurture is to provide some of our vulnerable pupils with a programme of work which is delivered in a safe, secure, enriching environment; where they can experience interaction with adults and peers. The focus is to develop social skills, explore feelings, address unacceptable attitudes or behaviour and help to improve attendance. These activities are delivered in a variety of ways such as through discussion, working together, games and kinaesthetic activities in a unique environment.

TECHNICAL EDUCATION The department has made significant use of the new Design Studio and the Rapid Prototyping Equipment over the course of the year. All S1 and S2 classes have had the opportunity to develop skills in the use of CADCAM equipment to solve problems in design based activities. Senior students have also developed creative solutions in Graphic Communication and Product Design. A number of pupils have also chosen to use this equipment in Art and Design activities. The department are delighted that seven of their Fifth Year students have successfully gained craft apprenticeships in joinery, engineering, plumbing, electrical installation, gas fitting and in motor engineering. A further two Fifth Year students have gained places at Motherwell College to study courses in Engineering, Fabrication and Welding. A further two students have gained University places in Design, following successful completion of Higher Product Design. Well done to all of them!

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SECTION 28: HOME AND SCHOOL LINKS Throughout the short history of Taylor High there have been obvious and strong bonds between the parents and the school. It is hoped that in the reading of this handbook parents are conscious of the significance which the Head Teacher and the staff give to the co-operation and involvement of parents in their child’s education. Pupils, especially boys, are notorious for being reticent about their day at school. When you as parents ask them about their first day at school, so often the reply is ‘It was fine” and no more is said. Hopefully we can encourage you to take the conversation further and enquire more deeply into their day at school. Why not check their jotters and student planner and read the teacher’s comments. Section 23 provides more detailed information on homework and, it is hoped that in the early years, you encourage your child to study and work at home since these habits are essential for success further up the school. Throughout the session you will receive school reports on how your child is progressing in her/his subjects and these will be followed up by the opportunity to meet teachers. However you need not wait until you are invited by the school. You may phone or write to your child’s Pupil Support Teacher for an interview to be arranged at a convenient time. Perhaps you, as a parent, may wish to act as a representative on the Parent Council? The Annual General Meeting is held in the month of October each year. As a member of the Parent Council you can expect to be involved in helping to develop the school’s policies and in helping the headteacher to keep all parents informed about their role in turning policies into practice. The Parent Council works for the good of Taylor High School and meets on a regular basis in the school. It organises social functions, fund-raising events and works in partnership with the school to deliver workshops for parents designed to improve their understanding of a range of issues which affect their children’s education. Recent workshops have included the subjects of anti-bullying strategies, Health Education with a focus on Drugs Education, stress avoidance strategies and learning styles. A list of current office bearers is given in section 36. A successful fundraiser has become the school’s Christmas Fayre. (i) Attendance at school Section 30 of the 1980 Education Act lays a duty on every parent of a child of school age’ to ensure that their child attends school regularly. Attendance must be recorded twice a day, morning and afternoon. Regulation 7 of the Education (School and Placing Information) (Scotland) Amendment, Etc. Regulations 1993 requires each child’s absence from school to be recorded in the school register as authorised: or unauthorised: As defined by the Scottish Government. After an absence (including those cases where the parent has previously phoned the school) pupils should bring a note from their parent/guardian indicating: 1. the date of the letter 2. the days and dates of the absence 3. the reasons for being absent 4. the signature of the parent/guardian.

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This note should be given to the pupil’s Registration Teacher. Family Holidays During Term Time Every effort should be made to avoid family holidays during term time as this both disrupts the child’s education and reduces learning time. Parents/guardians should inform the school by letter of the dates before going on holiday. Absences will be classified as authorised only in exceptional circumstances. Such circumstances may include: A family holiday judged to be important to the wellbeing and cohesion of the family, following serious or terminal illness, bereavement or other traumatic events. A family holiday classified under the ‘authorised absence’ category will not include such reasons as: • • • • •

The availability of cheap holidays The availability of desired accommodation Poor weather experience during school holidays Holidays which overlap the beginning or end of term Parental difficulty obtaining leave (except in cases where evidence is provided by the employer that it cannot accommodate leave during school holidays without serious consequences)

Family holidays with the above similar characteristics will be classified as unauthorised absence. Where the head teacher’s prior agreement has not been sought the absence will automatically be classed as unauthorised. Extended Leave with Parental Consent Where most family holidays will be recorded as unauthorised absence (see above) extended leave with parental consent will not be considered the same as a family holiday. Leave in such circumstances will be authorised under circumstances such as: • Extended overseas educational trips not organised by the school • Short-term parental placement abroad • Family returning to its country of origin (to care for a relative, or for cultural reasons) • Leave in relation to the children of travelling families

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technology school of ambition Exceptional Domestic Circumstances Parents may request permission for such leave in writing and the school may authorise such requests under the following circumstances: • The period immediately after an accident or illness • A period of serious or critical illness of a close relative • A domestic crisis that causes serious disruption to the family home, causing temporary relocation. If a pupil is absent without the reason being known to the school, then an attendance card may be sent while the School Attendance Officer would also investigate. It should be noted that, where necessary, the Attendance Council has the power to write to, interview or prosecute parents or refer pupils to the Reporter to the Children’s Panel. There is a strong link between a high level of attendance and a good performance in national examinations. Parents are strongly urged to ensure that their children attend school at all times unless illness, or other serious reason, makes this unavoidable. The school make every effort to maintain a full educational service, but on some occasions circumstances arise which lead to disruption. Schools may be affected by, for example, severe weather, dislocation of transport, power failure or difficulties of fuel supply. In such cases we shall do all we can to let you know about the details of closure or reopening. We shall keep you in touch by using letters, notices in local shops and community centres, announcements in local churches and announcements in the press and on local radio. Please refer to section 36 for annual information. Absence rates are calculated as a percentage of the total number of possible attendances for all pupils of the school in the stage shown, each morning and afternoon of each school day being a separate possible attendance. Where figure or percentages based on a number of pupils under any particular heading is between 1 and 4 no information is given and *** is inserted in place of the figures. Adults attending day school classes are excluded.

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Placing Requests You have the right to make a placing requests for your child to be educated in a school other than the local school. In December each year, the authority will advertise its arrangements for placing requests. There are sound educational reasons for trying to ensure that the transfer or admission of children to a school takes place at the start of a school session. Other than those who are moving home, to a new area, parents are advised to time any placing requests so that they take effect from the beginning of the new school session. Every effort will be made to try to meet the parental wishes, but you should note that it is not always possible to grant every placing request to a particular school Once a pupil has reached the school leaving age the pupil, not the pupils parents may choose which school to go to. Placing requests to Primary School does not necessarily ensure that your child will have a direct entry to the associated secondary. Advice on this must be sought from the Primary School Head Teacher. All placing request details and procedures are available from the school or the council’s website. Parents and Young People have a right under the Additional Support for Learning Act 2009 to make a placing request for their child or young person to attend a nursery (including partnership nursery), special school, special class managed by the home authority. In the event of a successful placing request the authority are not required to provide transport. The Act also enables parents and young people to make a placing request to attend a school/establishment belonging to another authority.

Education Maintenance Allowance Students who have reached the statutory school leaving age of 16 may be eligible for an Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) to allow them to remain at school. In session 2011-2012 students who are born before 1 March 1996 will be eligible to apply for an EMA. The EMA guidelines explain the criteria which must be met in order to be eligible for an EMA and the rules which must be adhered to for the EMA to be paid throughout the year. The following notes will be helpful in giving information about the EMA Guidelines (i) Eligibility (i) All applications are individually assessed. Students must attend a school managed by North Lanarkshire Council, regardless of where he or she is resident.

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technology school of ambition (ii) The income used as the basis of the assessment is the gross household income for the preceding financial year. The scheme changed in Session 2009-10 and as a guide the income levels for that session were – (iii) For applicants in single student households - £30 per week was paid where the income was up to £20,351; where the income was above that level no award was made. (iv) For applicants in multiple student households - £30 per week was paid where the income was up to £22,403; where the income was above that level no award was made. These income levels may change in 2011-2012. (ii) Attendance Students in receipt of an EMA must attain 100% attendance in any week to receive payment for that week. Where the student is absent through illness a medical certificate must be submitted. In addition, self-certification forms are accepted for a maximum of 5 days sickness absence in the academic session. Any illness which would take the pupil over the 5 days self-certification would continue to require submission of a medical certificate. (iii) Application forms A letter will be sent to the parent or guardian of all students who are in the eligible age-band to apply for EMA in May each year, providing details of the main eligibility criteria.

Application forms and guidance documents are sent to all secondary schools and some special schools in North Lanarkshire in June each year. The school is also given a number of posters and DVD’s publicising the scheme and advertising the availability of forms. Students who may be eligible should obtain an application form and guidance document from the school. Applications forms and guidance notes are only available from schools, Area Registration Offices and First Stop Shops.



Students who are eligible for EMA for the full academic session should apply as early as possible. Students who are eligible for EMA from January to June, should apply from November.



Any student who is unsure whether they meet the EMA criteria should contact the EMA Section for advice.



The Scottish Government have announced that the EMA scheme will be reviewed in December 2010. Further information on the outcome of the review will be available from schools after that date.

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SECTION 29: UNIFORM From the first day of the school’s existence it was obvious that the parents associated with the school were eager to set a high standard in terms of the appearance of their children. A tradition of school uniform is one we can all be very proud of. Blazer Skirt/ Trousers Tie Badge Sweatshirt

Wine (Suppliers are aware of the shade) Grey/black (self-coloured) Wine/Gold/Silver-Grey (Fifth and Sixth Year tie is supplied by the school) Wine/Gold/Silver Wine or Grey bearing school badge

The following retail outlets have been contacted and they will supply the uniform. We also arrange for them to sell via the school. Details are sent to parents in May/ June each year.

Suppliers Academy Uniforms, Glasgow Le Mirage, Manse Road, Motherwell National Schoolwear Centre Main St Wishaw

Phone No 0141 630 9300 01698 252990 01698 374000

All North Lanarkshire schools must have a dress code which encourages pupils to dress in a way which is appropriate to attendance at school. This dress code must not lead to direct or indirect discrimination on the grounds of race, religion, gender or disability. Prior to drawing up the dress code the parents, pupils and staff were fully consulted. It is the expectation of the education authority that parents will be keen to support the dress code and written agreement may be sought. Clothing which is unacceptable in school under any circumstances, includes items which: ✦ could potentially encourage factions (e.g. football colours) ✦ could cause offence (e.g. anti-religious symbolism or political slogans) ✦ could cause health and safety difficulties such as loose fitting clothing, dangling earrings and other potentially dangerous jewellery ✦ are of flammable materials which may be a danger in certain classes (e.g. shell suits) ✦ could cause damage to flooring ✦ carry advertising in particular for alcohol or tobacco and ✦ could be used to inflict damage on other pupils or to be used by others to do so

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technology school of ambition Parents in receipt of a grant for footwear and clothing from the council will be encouraged to purchase items which are in accordance with the school dress code. Approval of any requests for such grants in other circumstances are at the discretion of the Director of Education. Information and application forms may be obtained from any school or area office. Parents are entitled to receive a clothing grant if they are in receipt of any of the following benefits: Income Support, Job Seekers Allowance (Income Based), Housing Benefit, Council Tax Rebate. Whilst in general terms it would not normally be the policy of the authority to exclude a pupil from school solely on the basis of his/her dress, persistent refusal to respond to a reasonable dress code might be deemed to be a serious challenge to the head teacher’s authority and be detrimental to the well being of the whole school community. In such circumstances a head teacher could justify the use of the school discipline procedure. The council wishes to minimise claims arising from the loss of pupils clothing and or personal belongings. Parents are asked to assist in this area by ensuring that valuable items and unnecessarily expensive items of clothing, jewellery etc are not brought to school. Parents should note that any claims submitted to cover the loss of such things are likely to be met only where the authority can be shown to have been negligent. Physical Education Dress Code Available only from Uniform Suppliers who are invited into the school in June, Parents are lettered in advance of dates Indoor • shorts/tracksuit, T-shirt, polo shirt or similar with appropriate change of footwear



Outdoor • Tracksuit, sweatshirt or other previously agreed alternative • Waterproof outers may be worn as considered appropriate • A towel should be brought when appropriate Physical Education clothing must be in line with the school dress policy and must not include football team colours or feature inappropriate social comment. Jewellery must be removed. If jewellery cannot be removed it must be covered unless a risk assessment by staff indicates that it would be unsafe for the student to participate while wearing the item. An appropriate member of staff will have the final say in the matter.

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SECTION 30: P.E. CODE OF PRACTICE The following code of practice has been developed to ensure schools offer a consistent approach to what is expected of pupils with regard to dress and participation in Physical Education in North Lanarkshire schools. It provides a set of guidelines which are clear enough to apply yet offer flexibility for individual schools to tailor their own policies on dress. It is deemed that all pupils who attend school will normally be able to participate in Physical Education. However, on occasions exceptions may arise and only in these circumstances could Physical Education be considered inappropriate and impractical. The following rules apply to all pupils: • If pupils are able to attend school then they will normally be expected to participate in Physical Education • Pupils should always bring full kit regardless of the circumstances • The absence of kit is an inappropriate reason for non-participation • Refusal to take part in Physical Education could result in disciplinary sanctions being applied • Inability to participate for medical reasons must be supported by a valid medical certificate • Persistent failure to bring P.E. kit, or refusal to participate, will be regarded as a serious disciplinary matter • Staff will only accept responsibility for valuables handed in at the beginning of the lesson There are three categories of non-participation. 1. Pupils who have an appropriate note from parents/guardians indicating a minor ailment. In such cases the school will offer an appropriate form of activity which has been discussed and agreed and deemed reasonable and practical to offer such a pupil. 2. Pupils who have no kit or claim some form of minor ailment withour a supporting letter signed by the parent or guardian. In such cases the pupil will normally be offered spare kit as a first step. A standard letter may be issued to the pupil to be signed by the parent indicating their awareness that repetition of this will result in disciplinary action being taken. Any subsequent failure to participate could then result in the school invoking disciplinary procedures. 3.

Pupils who have kit or items pre-assessed as hazardous in terms of health and safety. In such cases a standard letter may be issued to the pupil to be signed by the parent or guardian indicating that a failure to bring suitable kit or failure to remove the offending article prior to the lesson could result in appropriate disciplinary action being taken.

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SECTION 31: MEALS A self-service cafeteria is available to pupils. At present a cashless system operates in which pupil top up Young Scots Card with money. The cafeteria offers a variety of snacks, fast food and full meals available each day. Special Diets Parents of pupils with special dietary needs should inform their child’s Pupil Support Teacher so that arrangements can be made with the Kitchen Supervisor. Free Meals Children of parents receiving Income Support, Job Seekers Allowance (income based), Employment & Support Allowance (income related) are entitled to a meal without charge. In addition children of parents in receipt of Child Tax Credit, with a gross annual income below £16,190 with no element of working tax credit are also entitled to a meal without charge. Children whose parents are in receipt of both maximum Child Tax Credit and maximum Working Tax Credit with an income below £6,420 are also entitled to a meal without charge. Information and application forms for free school meals may be obtained from schools, area registration offices, first stop shops and Municipal Buildings, Coatbridge. Parents are entitled to receive a clothing grant if they are in receipt of any of the following benefits: Income Support, Job Seekers Allowance (income based). Employment & Support Allowance (income related), housing benefit, council tax rebate. Please Note: 1. Job Seeker’s Allowance (Contribution Based), Council Tax Discount or Council Tax Exemption and Working Families Tax Credit are NOT qualifying benefits. 2. Family Credit is no longer a qualifying benefit. Packed Lunch Facilities are available around the cafeteria area for pupils to have their packed lunches in comfort.

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SECTION 32: TRANSPORT General The Council has a policy of providing free transport to secondary pupils who live more than two miles from their local school by the shortest safe walking route. This policy is more generous than the law requires. This provision could be reviewed at any time. Parents who consider they are eligible should obtain an application form from the school or the education department. These forms should be completed and returned before the end of February for those pupils beginning the school in August to enable the appropriate arrangements to be made. Applications may be submitted at any time throughout the year but may be subject to delay whilst arrangements are made. There is discretion in certain circumstances to grant privilege transport for pupils to travel in transport provided by the authority, where spare places are available and no additional costs are incurred. (ii) Pick-up Points Where free transport is provided it may be necessary for pupils to walk a certain distance to the vehicle pick-up point. Walking distance in total, including the distance from home to the pick-up point and from the drop-off point to the school in any one direction, will not exceed the authority’s limits (see above paragraph). It is the parent’s responsibility to ensure their child arrives at the pick-up point in time. It is also the parent’s responsibility to ensure the child behaves in a safe and acceptable manner while boarding, travelling in and alighting from the vehicle. Misbehaviour could result in a loss of the right to free transport. (iii) Placing Request The council does not provide transport for those pupils in receipt of a placing request other than in exceptional circumstances. School Buses Special services available for pupils from part of Newarthill and Cleland are as follows: Bus No 1 Travelling from Bellside/Cleland:The operator for the above service is Irvines Coaches (Tel: 01698 372 452). Boarding locations and times are as follows: Bellside: 08.20 am Cleland (Wishaw High Road/Main Street) : 08.25 am Parkside (Biggar Road): 08.35 am, Chapelknowe Road (Dalziel Park) 08.45 am. At the end of the school day pupils should return at around 3.50 - 4.00 pm.

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technology school of ambition Bus No2 Pupils travelling from Parkside: The operator is JD Travel (Tel: 01236 766 555). The pick up point is given as Parkside at 08.17 am with a return home by 3.50 pm approximately. Bus No3 Pupils travelling from Newarthill:The operator is Hailey’s Comet (Tel: 01698 351 442). All pupils entitled to free transport from Newarthill will travel with this operator. Boarding location and time is as follows: Biggar Road: 08.27 am Mossbank Crescent, Newarthill: 08.30 am At the end of the school day pupils will return at 3.50 pm approximately. Inter-School Transport Where inter-school curricular arrangements necessitate pupil movement between schools, any necessary transport arrangements will be made by the school. The cost of such transport, where essential, will be met by the school from a budget provided by the authority. The usual mode of transport in such cases is taxi. The Depute Head Teacher (Upper School) will normally co-ordinate arrangements for transfer of this type.

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SECTION 33: HEALTH AND MEDICAL CARE Taylor High has a number of staff trained in basic First Aid. The following procedures take place within Taylor High School in the event of any pupil requiring First Aid Treatment. First Aid Procedures In the event of a pupil requiring First Aid then: (a) The pupil’s confidential file will be accessed to check: Name and Address Parent/Emergency Contact Medical Information - History of particular illness eg. Asthma, allergy to medication which should be taken daily etc. This information is of importance especially for medical practitioners eg. if hospital treatment is required. (b) Depending on the treatment required the following will apply: (i) minor treatment eg. a graze or small cut from a fall in the playground. Treatment given and pupil told to inform a parent on arriving home later that day. No direct contact with a parent will be made. (ii) where sickness/injury results in a pupil requiring to be sent home eg. due to severe sickness then parent/emergency contact will be telephoned. The pupil should be collected from the school. No pupil will be sent home without contact being made with parent/emergency contact. (iii) where a pupil requires to be taken to hospital eg. suspected broken arm or severe asthma attack, then contact with parent/emergency contact will be made immediately. Until the ambulance arrives it is not certain which hospital the pupil will be taken to. Once this is known parents will be informed. If no contact is made then a member of staff will go to the hospital in the ambulance and will remain there until a relative arrives. All incidents dealt with by staff will be recorded in the School First Aid book. Parents should note that members of staff cannot ‘dispense’ medication eg. paracetamol for a headache or issue inhalers to pupils. It is the responsibility of pupils to carry any medication which they require to take during the course of the school day.

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technology school of ambition PUBLIC HEALTH NURSE There has been a major change in how nurses operate within schools. Each school now has a named Public Health Nurse with a Specialist Practitioner Qualification in Public Health. Taylor High’s Public Health Nurse is Fiona Gray and she will be closely supported by colleague Helen Scott. They will work closely with the school, the surrounding community and other agencies to promote health in its widest sense. This will involve assisting with the development of health programmes to compliment your child’s curriculum and encourage healthy lifestyles. Fiona Gray is responsible for leading up a team of public health professionals including: Public Health Associate Nurses, Support Staff and Health Promotion colleagues to meet the health needs of pupils, their families and carers and also the staff. The team will continue to provide routine immunisation and be directly involved where appropriate in the delivery of health related topics. If parents have any concerns about the health of their child or someone in the family, please contact Fiona Gray or Helen Scott through the school or alternatively: Fiona Gray Public Health Nurse Helen Scott Public Health Associate Nurse MacInnes Unit 60-64 High Street NEWARTIHLL ML1 5JU 01698 862020

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Medical Examinations and Innoculations 1. Pupils in Second and Third Year are given medical checks (depending on date of birth). 2. Pupils in First Year are given BCG skin test and vaccination. 3. Girls in First Year are given Rubella injections. 4. Girls in Second Year are given the HPV vaccine. Parents are notified well in advance with consent forms being sent out. Medical Information Parents should inform the school of any medical condition which may put their child at risk within the school eg. epilepsy, asthma, diabetes, heart complaint etc. All information will be treated with professional confidentiality. Emergency Contact Pupils will be given a form to complete (in August and January of each school year) in order that the school may contact parents in an emergency. Where another person is nominated as the emergency contact, would parents ensure that the person named is on the telephone, able-bodied and can come to the school in an emergency. Dental Inspection Secondary school pupils receive examinations and treatment at the local community dental clinic, on request. Pupils are requested, as far as possible, to obtain dental appointments outwith school hours.

SECTION 34: INFORMATION IN EMERGENCIES We make every effort to maintain a full educational service, but on some occasions circumstances arise which lead to disruption. Schools may be affected by, for example, severe weather, temporary interruption of transport, power failures or difficulties of fuel supply. In such cases we shall do all we can to let you know about the details of closure or reopening. We shall keep you in touch by using letters, notices in local shops and community centres, announcements in local churches and announcements in the press and local radio.

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SECTION 35: THE PARENT FORUM As a parent of a child at this school you are automatically a member of the Parent Forum. The Parent Forum is composed of all the parents and carers of children at the school. As a member of the Parent Forum you can expect to: • Get information about what your child is learning • Get information about events and activities at the school • Get advice/help on how you can support your child’s learning • Be told about opportunities to be involved in the school • Have a say in selecting a Parent Council to work on behalf of all parents at the school • Be invited to identify issues for the Parent Council to work on with the school

The Parent Council N.B. Parent Councils came into being on 1 August 2007. (1) The composition of the Parent Council should be stated. (This is determined by the Parent Forum). There should also be a reference to the head teacher being the professional adviser to the Parent Council. The Parent council’s rights and duties include: (a) supporting the work of the school; (b) representing the views of parents; (c) consulting with parents and reporting back to the Parent forum on maters of interest; (d) promoting contact between the school, parents, pupils, and the wider community; (e) fundraising; (f) taking part in the selection of senior promoted staff; (g) receiving reports from the head teacher and education authority; and (h) receiving an annual budget for administration, training and other expenses. Members of Parent Councils, on a voluntary basis, may also have an advisory role in decisions on placing requests by parents in respect of those situations where the number of placing requests for a particular school or for a particular stage in a particular school exceeds the number of places available. The Office Bearers elected are: Chair: Vice Chair: Clerk: Staff Member: Pupil Representatives: Parent Members:

Mr Mark Jordan Mrs M T Mackie Mrs Maybeth Johnston Miss Nicola Daley Ryan Cogan Mrs Catherine Brown Ms Clare McMonagle Mrs E Ferrie

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SECTION 36: INFORMATION FOR PARENTS SQA EXAMINATIONS AND 5-14 (a) Policy with regard to entering pupils for public examinations. Schools in consultation with pupils/parents, normally decide on presentation for examinations. However in the final analysis the school will accede to the wishes of the parents. (b) Scottish Qualification Authority (SQA) Awards Courses leading to external certification begin in Third Year. In Taylor High School pupils are presented for SQA examinations at Standard Grade, Higher Grade, Intermediate II, Intermediate I and Advanced Higher. Some pupils also take free-standing units. All of these qualifications are awarded by the Scottish Qualification Authority.

As a matter of policy, we try to help our pupils keep as many options open as they can at the early stage. Using our experience of the examination system and our knowledge of individual pupils, we give advice to parents and pupils on the range and level of courses that each pupil should follow and on the matter of eventual presentation. If we err at all, it will always be on the side of generosity.

Analysis of Examination Results The information for North Lanarkshire and Scotland includes all education authority and grant-aided secondary schools. The S4 to S5 staying on rate is calculated by expressing the S5 roll at the start of the second term (January) as a percentage of the roll of the same group of pupils when they were in S4 at September of the previous school year. Where a pupil is presented for an examination at Standard grade in the same subject at more than one level, account is taken of only the highest grade attained. Where figures or percentages based on a number of pupils attaining certificates under any particular heading is between 1 and 4 no information is given and *** is inserted in place of the figures. The tables on the following pages show the SQA Examination results and analysis for the three most recent school years.

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technology school of ambition TAYLOR HIGH SCHOOL FOURTH YEAR POST-APPEAL RESULTS 2010 STANDARD GRADE COURSE RESULTS SUBJECT Administration 0020 Art and Design 0090 Biology 0300 Business Management 4200 Chemistry 0500 Computing Studies 0560 Craft & Design 0600 English 0860 French 1000 Geography 1260 Graphic Communication 1330 History 1540 Home Economics 1660 Mathematics 2500 Modern Studies 2640 Music 2660 Physical Education 3200 Physics 3220 Urdu 4100

1 0 14 13 7 18 11 2 12 18 10 6 4 1 23 8 15 18 12 2 TOTALS 194

CREDIT AWARDS GENERAL AWARDS FOUNDATION AWARDS COURSE COMPLETED TOTAL AWARDS NO AWARDS TOTAL

2 0 10 6 5 20 10 7 34 24 9 3 7 7 16 11 9 21 8 0 207

3 0 15 21 1 14 12 5 48 11 6 5 9 9 15 12 8 22 4 0 217

4 3 0 3 1 4 6 3 23 37 6 3 2 9 18 12 0 3 1 0 134

GRADE 5 1 0 6 0 2 5 1 2 17 0 0 2 0 34 6 0 0 3 0 79

B 0 3 3

GRADE C 2 0 2

D 0 0 0

NA 0 0 0

TOTALS 2 9 11

B 1 5 1 3 10

GRADE C 6 2 1 3 12

D 2 2 3 0 7

NA 6 0 3 0 9

TOTALS 15 10 8 8 41

401 351 103 2 857 1 858

INTERMEDIATE 2 COURSE RESULTS

Engineering Craft Skills C034 Woodworking Skills C035 TOTALS TOTAL (A-C) D AWARD TOTAL (A-D) NO AWARD TOTAL INTERMEDIATE 1 COURSE RESULTS SUBJECT Biology C007

Engineering Craft Skills C034 Physics C069 Woodworking Skills C035 TOTALS TOTAL (A-C) D AWARD TOTAL (A-D) NO AWARD TOTAL

A 0 6 6 11 0 11 0 11

A 0 1 0 2 3 25 7 32 9 41

INTERMEDIATE 1 COURSE RESULTS English for Speakers of Other Languages 1 ACCESS 3 COURSE AWARDS* Biology C007 Physics C069 Spanish C063

6 1 0 5 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 1 0 13 0 0 0 1 0 24

6 3 5

* - Access courses are awarded on a Pass/Fail basis. NATIONAL UNIT AWARDS GAINED AT INTERMEDIATE 2 89 Making Moral Decisions D408 68 NATIONAL UNIT AWARDS GAINED AT INTERMEDIATE 1 Making Moral Decisions D408 32

7 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 2

NA 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1

TOTALS 5 39 54 14 58 44 18 120 108 33 17 25 26 121 49 32 64 29 2 858

Biology C007

Engineering Craft Skills C034 Physics C069 Woodworking Skills C035 TOTALS TOTAL (A-C) D AWARD TOTAL (A-D) NO AWARD TOTAL

0 1 0 2 3

1 5 1 3 10

6 2 1 3 12

6 0 3 0 9

15 10 8 8 41

School Handbook 2011/2012

25 7 32 9 41

INTERMEDIATE 1 COURSE RESULTS English for Speakers of Other Languages 1 ACCESS 3 COURSE AWARDS* Biology C007 Physics C069 Spanish C063

2 2 3 0 7

6 3 5

* - Access courses are awarded on a Pass/Fail basis. NATIONAL UNIT AWARDS GAINED AT INTERMEDIATE 2 Making Moral Decisions D408 68 NATIONAL UNIT AWARDS GAINED AT INTERMEDIATE 1 Making Moral Decisions D408 32 Working with Others F3GE 34 NATIONAL UNIT AWARDS GAINED AT ACCESS 3 Work Experience D36H 115

90

33 2 35 9 44

TOTAL AWARDS (A-C) TOTAL AWARDS (D) TOTAL AWARDS (A-D) NO AWARDS TOTAL

A 1 9 6 5 4 2 0 1 0 3 9 1 1 2 2 2 8 1 2 3 62

259 26 285 41 326

SUBJECT Administration C214 Art and Design C223 Biology C007 Chemistry C012 English C115 French C059 Geography C208 History C044 Home Economics: Health an C118 Information Systems C216 Mathematics: Maths 1, 2 a C100 Modern Studies C236 Music: Performing C231 Music: Performing with Te C233 Photography for the Media C06A Physical Education C205 Physics C069 Product Design C211 Spanish C063 Technological Studies C036 TOTALS

TOTAL AWARDS (A-C) TOTAL AWARDS (D) TOTAL AWARDS (A-D) NO AWARDS TOTAL

B 2 0 2 3 4 4 1 16

B 0 7 7 7 15 1 4 2 2 7 10 2 2 14 6 6 6 1 1 0 100

FIFTH AND SIXTH YEAR HIGHER RESULTS

A 0 1 0 1 0 2 2 6

SUBJECT Art and Design: Design C225 Art and Design: Expressiv C224 Biology C007 Chemistry C012 English C115 Mathematics: Maths 1, 2 a C100 Physics C069 TOTALS

SIXTH YEAR ADVANCED HIGHER

GRADES C 2 5 10 9 15 0 5 5 3 2 11 8 2 6 2 5 5 0 1 1 97

C 2 0 4 2 1 1 1 11

D 2 0 4 3 11 0 1 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 26

D 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 2

NA 0 0 12 1 4 0 3 4 1 1 4 7 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 1 41

NA 0 0 1 0 0 5 3 9

TOTALS 5 21 39 25 49 3 13 12 6 13 35 20 5 22 11 13 22 2 5 5 326

TOTALS 4 1 9 6 5 12 7 44

TAYLOR HIGH SCHOOL FIFTH AND SIXTH YEAR POST-APPEAL RESULTS 2010

1 0 0 2 2 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 1 2 11

1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1

2 1 9 4 3 4 1 0 1 0 3 9 1 1 2 2 2 5 1 1 1 51

2 0 1 0 1 0 2 1 5

3 0 1 1 1 9 1 0 1 1 4 8 1 2 6 1 4 1 0 1 0 43

3 0 0 0 1 3 1 0 5

4 0 6 6 6 6 0 4 1 1 3 2 1 0 8 5 2 5 1 0 0 57

4 2 0 2 2 1 3 1 11

BAND 5 0 2 5 7 8 0 1 0 1 1 6 3 0 3 0 1 3 0 0 1 42

BAND 5 2 0 1 2 1 1 0 7

6 2 3 5 2 7 0 4 5 2 1 5 5 2 3 2 4 2 0 1 0 55

6 0 0 3 0 0 0 1 4

7 2 0 4 3 11 0 1 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 26

7 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 2

8 0 0 6 1 3 0 1 2 0 0 0 4 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 19

8 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

9 0 0 6 0 1 0 2 2 1 1 4 3 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 22

9 0 0 1 0 0 5 3 9

TOTALS 5 21 39 25 49 3 13 12 6 13 35 20 5 22 11 13 22 2 5 5 326

12 7 39

TOTALS 4 1 9 6

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91

120 12 132 23 155

TOTAL AWARDS (A-C) TOTAL AWARDS (D) TOTAL AWARDS (A-D) NO AWARDS TOTAL

B 1 0 2 0 4 6 0 0 0 1 1 1 7 0 0 4 2 29

GRADES C 3 0 4 0 1 21 0 0 3 0 1 1 4 0 1 1 1 41

92

TOTALS

2 0 0

B 0 0 0 5 4 0 0 9

3 0 0

GRADES C 1 0 1 9 4 5 0 20

1 9 9 19

NATIONAL UNIT AWARDS GAINED AT INTERMEDIATE 1 Working with Others F3GE 162

NATIONAL UNIT AWARDS GAINED AT ADVANCED HIGHER Physical Education: Perfo DF2T 1 Physiology, Health and Ex D037 1

Computing Studies C207 English C115 Mathematics C056 TOTAL AWARDS

FIFTH AND SIXTH YEAR ACCESS 3 COURSE AWARDS

SUBJECT Urdu 4100

1 1 1

33 3 7 43 12 55

TOTAL AWARDS (A-C) TOTAL AWARDS (UNGRADED) TOTAL AWARDS (D) TOTAL AWARDS (A-D) PLUS UNGRADED NO AWARDS TOTAL

FIFTH YEAR STANDARD GRADE

A 0 0 0 2 0 1 1 4

SUBJECT Administration C214 Creative Digital Media C264 Engineering Craft Skills C034 English C115 Mathematics: Maths 1, 2 a C101 Modern Studies C236 Travel and Tourism C217 TOTALS

FIFTH AND SIXTH YEAR INTERMEDIATE 1 RESULTS

A 0 5 3 4 6 0 1 2 0 0 2 1 7 6 0 6 7 50

SUBJECT Administration C214 Art and Design C223 Biology C007 Creative Cake Production C06E Engineering Craft Skills C034 English C115 English for Speakers of O C222 French C059 History C044 Home Economics: Health an C118 Hospitality: Practical Co C201 Information Systems C216 Mathematics: Maths 1, 2 a C101 Mathematics: Maths 1, 2 a C100 Modern Studies C236 Physical Education C205 Woodworking Skills C035 TOTALS

FIFTH AND SIXTH YEAR INTERMEDIATE 2 RESULTS

GRADE 4 0 0

D 0 0 0 4 3 0 0 7

D 0 0 5 0 0 5 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 12

5 0 0

NA 0 0 0 7 5 0 0 12

NA 0 0 6 0 0 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 0 7 0 0 23

6 0 0

3

3

U

7 0 0

TOTALS 1 3 1 27 16 6 1 55

TOTALS 4 5 20 4 11 37 1 2 3 2 4 3 24 6 8 11 10 155

1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1 0 2 0 0 3 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 4 13

2 0 0 0 2 0 1 1 4

2 0 3 3 4 3 0 1 1 0 0 2 1 5 6 0 5 3 37

3 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 3

3 0 0 1 0 1 2 0 0 0 1 0 1 6 0 0 2 1 15

4 0 0 0 4 2 0 0 6

4 1 0 1 0 3 4 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 2 1 14

BAND 5 1 0 0 4 2 2 0 9

BAND 5 2 0 2 0 1 8 0 0 0 0 1 0 4 0 1 0 0 19

6 0 0 1 5 2 3 0 11

6 1 0 2 0 0 13 0 0 3 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 22

7 0 0 0 4 3 0 0 7

7 0 0 5 0 0 5 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 12

8 0 0 0 4 1 0 0 5

8 0 0 4 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 7

9 0 0 0 3 4 0 0 7

9 0 0 2 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 7 0 0 16

3

U

TOTALS 1 3 1 27 16 6 1 55

TOTALS 4 5 20 4 11 37 1 2 3 2 4 3 24 6 8 11 10 155

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Taylor High School

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TAYLOR HIGH SCHOOL FIFTH YEAR POST-APPEAL RESULTS 2010 FIFTH YEAR HIGHER 2 1 3 2 1 3 1 0 0 0 2 7 0 1 2 2 4 1 1 31

3 0 1 1 1 6 1 0 1 1 4 5 1 2 5 3 1 0 0 33

4 0 5 4 4 3 0 3 1 1 1 1 1 0 7 2 4 0 0 37

BAND 5 0 2 3 5 7 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 0 3 0 2 0 1 27

6 2 1 2 1 6 0 3 3 0 1 4 3 1 2 4 0 0 0 33

7 1 0 1 2 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 9

8 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 4 0 0 0 1 0 1 10

9 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 2 0 0 0 1 0 0 7

TOTALS 4 12 15 16 29 2 6 7 3 8 23 12 4 19 11 15 1 5 192

2 0 3 3 3 3 0 1 0 0 0 2 1 4 6 0 5 3 34

3 0 0 1 0 1 2 0 0 0 1 0 0 6 0 0 2 0 13

4 1 0 1 0 3 4 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 2 1 14

BAND 5 1 0 1 0 1 5 0 0 0 0 1 0 3 0 1 0 0 13

6 0 0 2 0 0 10 0 0 3 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 18

7 0 0 4 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 8

8 0 0 4 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 7

9 0 0 1 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 2 0 0 10

TOTALS 2 5 17 3 10 29 1 1 3 1 4 2 22 6 3 11 8 128

TOTALS

1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

2 0 0 0 2 0 1 1 4

3 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 3

4 0 0 0 4 2 0 0 6

BAND 5 1 0 0 4 2 1 0 8

6 0 0 1 5 2 3 0 11

7 0 0 0 4 2 0 0 6

8 0 0 0 3 1 0 0 4

9 0 0 0 3 3 0 0 6

TOTALS

1 1 1

2 0 0

3 0 0

GRADE 4 0 0

6 0 0

7 0 0

SUBJECT Administration C214 Art and Design C223 Biology C007 Chemistry C012 English C115 French C059 Geography C208 History C044 Home Economics: Health an C118 Information Systems C216 Mathematics: Maths 1, 2 a C100 Modern Studies C236 Music: Performing C231 Music: Performing with Te C233 Physical Education C205 Physics C069 Spanish C063 Technological Studies C036 TOTALS

1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 2 5

FIFTH YEAR INTERMEDIATE 2 SUBJECT 1 Administration C214 0 Art and Design C223 2 Biology C007 0 Creative Cake Production C06E 0 Engineering Craft Skills C034 2 English C115 0 English for Speakers of Other Languages C2220 French C059 1 History C044 0 Home Economics: Health an C118 0 Hospitality: Practical Co C201 0 Information Systems C216 0 Mathematics: Maths 1, 2 a C101 2 Mathematics: Maths 1, 2 a C100 0 Modern Studies C236 0 Physical Education C205 1 Woodworking Skills C035 3 TOTALS 11 FIFTH YEAR INTERMEDIATE 1 SUBJECT Administration C214 Creative Digital Media C264 Engineering Craft Skills C034 English C115 Mathematics: Maths 1, 2 a C101 Modern Studies C236 Travel and Tourism C217

FIFTH YEAR STANDARD GRADE SUBJECT Urdu 4100

FIFTH YEAR ACCESS 3 COURSE AWARDS Computing Studies C207 English C115 Mathematics C056 TOTAL AWARDS

1 8 7 16

NATIONAL UNIT AWARDS GAINED AT INTERMEDIATE 1 Working with Others F3GE 88

93

5 0 0

U 3

TOTALS 1 3 1 26 14 5 1 51

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TAYLOR HIGH SCHOOL SIXTH YEAR POST-APPEAL RESULTS 2010 SIXTH YEAR ADVANCED HIGHER

TOTALS

1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1

2 0 1 0 1 0 2 1 5

3 0 0 0 1 3 1 0 5

4 3 0 2 2 1 3 1 12

BAND 5 2 0 1 2 1 1 0 7

6 0 0 4 0 0 0 1 5

7 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1

8 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

9 0 0 1 0 0 5 3 9

TOTALS 5 1 9 6 5 12 7 45

SUBJECT Administration C214 Art and Design C223 Biology C007 Chemistry C012 English C115 French C059 Geography C208 History C044 Home Economics: Health an C118 Information Systems C216 Mathematics: Maths 1, 2 a C100 Modern Studies C236 Music: Performing C231 Music: Performing with Te C233 Photography for the Media C06A Physical Education C205 Physics C069 Product Design C211 Spanish C063 TOTALS

1 0 0 2 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 6

2 0 6 2 2 1 0 0 1 0 1 2 1 0 0 2 0 1 1 0 20

3 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 1 10

4 0 1 2 2 3 0 1 0 0 2 1 0 0 1 5 0 1 1 0 20

BAND 5 0 0 2 2 1 0 1 0 1 1 2 3 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 15

6 0 2 3 1 1 0 1 2 2 0 1 2 1 1 2 0 2 0 1 22

7 1 0 3 1 7 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 17

8 0 0 5 0 3 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 9

9 0 0 5 0 1 0 2 2 0 1 2 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 15

TOTALS 1 9 24 9 20 1 7 5 3 5 12 8 1 3 11 2 7 2 4 134

1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 2

2 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 3

3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 2

4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

BAND 5 1 1 0 0 3 0 0 0 1 0 0 6

6 1 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 4

7 0 1 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 0 0 4

8 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

9 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 0 6

TOTALS 2 3 1 1 8 1 1 1 2 5 2 27

1 0 0 0 0

2 0 0 0 0

3 0 0 0 0

4 0 0 0 0

BAND 5 0 0 1 1

6 0 0 0 0

7 0 1 0 1

8 1 0 0 1

9 0 1 0 1

TOTALS 1 2 1 4

SUBJECT Art and Design: Design C225 Art and Design: Expressiv C224 Biology C007 Chemistry C012 English C115 Mathematics: Maths 1, 2 a C100 Physics C069

SIXTH YEAR HIGHER

SIXTH YEAR INTERMEDIATE 2 SUBJECT Administration C214 Biology C007 Creative Cake Production C06E Engineering Craft Skills C034 English C115 French C059 Home Economics: Health an C118 Information Systems C216 Mathematics: Maths 1, 2 a C101 Modern Studies C236 Woodworking Skills C035 TOTALS SIXTH YEAR INTERMEDIATE 1 SUBJECT English C115 Mathematics: Maths 1, 2 a C101 Modern Studies C236 TOTALS SIXTH YEAR ACCESS 3 COURSE AWARDS English C115 Mathematics C056 TOTAL AWARDS

1 2 3

NATIONAL UNIT AWARDS GAINED AT ADVANCED HIGHER Physical Education: Perfo DF2T 1 Physiology, Health and Ex D037 1 NATIONAL UNIT AWARDS GAINED AT INTERMEDIATE 1 Working with Others F3GE 74

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INFORMATION FOR PARENTS 2010 NLC SECONDARY SCHOOLS 5 – 14 Attainment School

Taylor HS

ID Number

Element

School READING

North Lanarkshire All Secondary Schools in 12 Local Authorities *

Element

School WRITING

North Lanarkshire All Secondary Schools in 12 Local Authorities *

Element

School MATHEMATICS

North Lanarkshire All Secondary Schools in 12 Local Authorities *

8519137

Previous level of performance (June 2009). % of S2 roll attaining or exceeding Level E **

Present level of performance (June 2010). % of S2 roll attaining or exceeding Level E **

69

76

70

75

72

75

Previous level of performance (June 2009). % of S2 roll attaining or exceeding Level E **

Present level of performance (June 2010). % of S2 roll attaining or exceeding Level E **

51

56

59

64

59

61

Previous level of performance (June 2009). % of S2 roll attaining or exceeding Level E **

Present level of performance (June 2010). % of S2 roll attaining or exceeding Level E **

73

71

66

68

66

67

* North Lanarkshire along with North, South and East Ayrshire Councils, East and West Dunbartonshire Councils, Renfrewshire Council, East Renfrewshire Council, Argyle and Bute Council, Glasgow City Council, South Lanarkshire Council and Inverclyde Council use SEEMIS as their school management system and agree to share data collected electronically for benchmarking purposes. The figures quoted opposite the 12 Local Authorities represent the aggregated data for 24,586 pupils (44% of the secondary pupils attending S2 in Local Authority secondary schools in Scotland) ** The 5 – 14 level for stage S2 is defined as follows:- Most pupils(75%) to reach Level E or better

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INFORMATION FOR PARENTS 2010 SECONDARY SCHOOLS School: Taylor High School

Id No.: 320 - 8519137 Minimising Overall Absence

Absence

Absence recorded (2008/2009) Average number of half days absence per pupil 40.7

Absence recorded (2009/2010) Average number of half days absence per pupil 47.3

Where schools have 9 openings per week, please note that all local authority and national figures are based on 10 openings per week, and so are not directly comparable. Key to symbols: The symbol (##) indicates that the data are not available or comparable with other years.

For Information: Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) levels: Level 7 CSYS at A-C; Advanced Higher at A-C Level 6 Higher at A-C Level 5 Intermediate 2 at A-C; Standard Grade at 1-2 Level 4 Intermediate 1 at A-C; Standard Grade at 3-4 Level 3 Access 3 Cluster; Standard Grade at 5-6

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technology school of ambition INFORMATION FOR PARENTS 2010 SECONDARY SCHOOLS Education Authority: North Lanarkshire Minimising Overall Absence

Absence

Absence recorded (2008/2009) Average number of half days absence per pupil 39.5

Absence recorded (2009/2010) Average number of half days absence per pupil 40.0

Where schools have 9 openings per week, please note that all local authority and national figures are based on 10 openings per week, and so are not directly comparable. Key to symbols: The symbol (##) indicates that the data are not available or comparable with other years.

For Information: Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) levels: Level 7 CSYS at A-C; Advanced Higher at A-C Level 6 Higher at A-C Level 5 Intermediate 2 at A-C; Standard Grade at 1-2 Level 4 Intermediate 1 at A-C; Standard Grade at 3-4 Level 3 Access 3 Cluster; Standard Grade at 5-6

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INFORMATION FOR PARENTS 2010 SECONDARY SCHOOLS National Data Minimising Overall Absence

Absence

Absence recorded (2008/2009) Average number of half days absence per pupil 34.2

Absence recorded (2009/2010) Average number of half days absence per pupil 33.9

Where schools have 9 openings per week, please note that all local authority and national figures are based on 10 openings per week, and so are not directly comparable. Key to symbols: The symbol (##) indicates that the data are not available or comparable with other years.

For Information: Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) levels: Level 7 CSYS at A-C; Advanced Higher at A-C Level 6 Higher at A-C Level 5 Intermediate 2 at A-C; Standard Grade at 1-2 Level 4 Intermediate 1 at A-C; Standard Grade at 3-4 Level 3 Access 3 Cluster; Standard Grade at 5-6

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technology school of ambition INFORMATION FOR PARENTS 2010 SECONDARY SCHOOLS School: Taylor High School

Id No.: 320 - 8519137

Estimated S5 January Roll As A Percentage Of The S4 Roll In September Of The Previous Session

2007/2008 59

2008/2009 74

2009/2010 72

Examination Results (within Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework) (2009/2010 results are pre-appeal)

By end of S4

By end of S5

By end of S6

Percentage of the relevant September S4 roll achieving: 5+ @ level 3 or better 5+ @ level 4 or better 5+ @ level 5 or better 2007/ 2008/ 2009/ 2007/ 2008/ 2009/ 2007/ 2008/ 2009/ 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 95 92 90 83 72 74 36 31 33 Percentage of the relevant September S4 roll achieving: 1+ @ level 6 or better 3+ @ level 6 or better 5+ @ level 6 or better 2007/ 2008/ 2009/ 2007/ 2008/ 2009/ 2007/ 2008/ 2009/ 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 39 46 44 20 21 24 6 13 6 Percentage of the relevant September S4 roll achieving: 3+ @ level 6 or better 5+ @ level 6 or better 2007/ 2008/ 2009/ 2007/ 2008/ 2009/ 2007/ 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 2008 30 27 29 16 18 19 13

1+ @ level 7 2008/ 2009 13

Key to symbols: Counts and percentages for year groups which contain more than 0 but less than 5 pupils are replaced by asterisks (**) because they could be misleading or lead to identification of individuals. The symbol (##) indicates that the data are not available or comparable with other years. Possible reasons for this include: the school has recently opened or merged with another school; S5 and S6 results for S1-S4 schools; S4, S5 and S6 results for S1-S2/S3 schools; cases where the relevant year group roll figure is zero.

99

2009/ 2010 17

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INFORMATION FOR PARENTS 2010 SECONDARY SCHOOLS Education Authority: North Lanarkshire Estimated S5 January Roll As A Percentage Of The S4 Roll In September Of The Previous Session 2007/2008 60

2008/2009 65

2009/2010 71

Examination Results (within Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework) (2009/2010 results are pre-appeal)

By end of S4

Percentage of the relevant September S4 roll achieving: 5+ @ level 3 or better 5+ @ level 4 or better 5+ @ level 5 or better 2007/20 2008/20 2009/20 2007/20 2008/20 2009/20 2007/20 2008/20 2009/20 08 09 10 08 09 10 08 09 10 92 92 92 76 77 78 31 32 32

Percentage of the relevant September S4 roll achieving:

By end of S5

1+ @ level 6 or better 2007/20 2008/20 2009/20 08 09 10 33 38 40

By end of S6

3+ @ level 6 or better 2007/20 2008/20 2009/20 08 09 10 25 25 30

3+ @ level 6 or better 2007/20 2008/20 2009/20 08 09 10 17 20 20

5+ @ level 6 or better 2007/20 2008/20 2009/20 08 09 10 7 8 8

Percentage of the relevant September S4 roll achieving: 5+ @ level 6 or better 2007/20 2008/20 2009/20 08 09 10 16 16 18

2007/20 08 8

1+ @ level 7 2008/20 2009/20 09 10 8 9

Key to symbols: Counts and percentages for year groups which contain more than 0 but less than 5 pupils are replaced by asterisks (**) because they could be misleading or lead to identification of individuals. The symbol (##) indicates that the data are not available or comparable with other years. Possible reasons for this include: the school has recently opened or merged with another school; S5 and S6 results for S1-S4 schools; S4, S5 and S6 results for S1-S2/S3 schools; cases where the relevant year group roll figure is zero.

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technology school of ambition INFORMATION FOR PARENTS 2010 SECONDARY SCHOOLS National Data Estimated S5 January Roll As A Percentage Of The S4 Roll In September Of The Previous Session 2007/2008 65

2008/2009 67

2009/2010 72

Examination Results (within Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework) (2009/2010 results are pre-appeal) By end of S4

By end of S5

By end of S6

Percentage of the relevant September S4 roll achieving: 5+ @ level 3 or better 5+ @ level 4 or better 5+ @ level 5 or better 2007/ 2008/ 2009/ 2007/ 2008/ 2009/ 2007/ 2008/ 2009/ 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 91 91 92 76 78 78 34 35 35 Percentage of the relevant September S4 roll achieving: 1+ @ level 6 or better 3+ @ level 6 or better 5+ @ level 6 or better 2007/ 2008/ 2009/ 2007/ 2008/ 2009/ 2007/ 2008/ 2009/ 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 39 41 43 22 23 24 10 11 11 Percentage of the relevant September S4 roll achieving: 3+ @ level 6 or better 5+ @ level 6 or better 2007/ 2008/ 2009/ 2007/ 2008/ 2009/ 2007/ 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 2008 30 31 33 20 21 22 13

1+ @ level 7 2008/ 2009 14

2009/ 2010 14

Key to symbols: Counts and percentages for year groups which contain more than 0 but less than 5 pupils are replaced by asterisks (**) because they could be misleading or lead to identification of individuals. The symbol (##) indicates that the data are not available or comparable with other years. Possible reasons for this include: the school has recently opened or merged with another school; S5 and S6 results for S1-S4 schools; S4, S5 and S6 results for S1-S2/S3 schools; cases where the relevant year group roll figure is zero.

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INFORMATION FOR PARENTS 2010 SECONDARY SCHOOLS School: Taylor High School

Id No.: 320 - 8519137

Leaver Destinations Number Of Pupils Leaving In School Year 2009/2010 And Percentage With Destination As:

Total Number of Leavers (=100%) Higher Education Further Education Training Employment Other Known Not Known

144 36 19 5 23 17 0

Key to symbols: Percentages for schools where the number of leavers is greater than 0 but less than 5 have been replaced by asterisks (**) because they could be misleading or lead to identification of individuals. The symbol (##) indicates that the data are not available or comparable with other years because the school has recently opened or merged with another school, or is temporarily closed.

Budgeted Running Costs For Financial Year 2010-2011

School Roll at September 2009 Total School Running Costs at April 2010 (£) Cost per Pupil (£)

700 3,822,084 5,460

Key to symbols: The symbol ## indicates that the data are not available.

Attendance And Absence For School Year 2009/2010 Total Number of Possible Attendances (Pupil Half Days) Percentage Authorised Absences Percentage Unauthorised Absences

S1

S2

S3

44,268

48,606

5.0 4.4

Stage

S4

S5

S1-5

46,442

47,388

37,482

224,186

5.6

5.1

6.0

5.6

5.5

6.5

6.9

8.7

7.2

6.8

Key to symbols: Asterisks (**) have been inserted instead of figures for some schools and categories: Counts and percentages based on data for more than 0 but fewer than 5 pupils, because they could be misleading or lead to the identification of individuals. In other cases, it is not possible for the school to have any data for the category, for example, cases where the relevant year group roll figure is zero. The symbol (##) indicates that the school has recently opened or merged with another school and this information is not available.

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technology school of ambition INFORMATION FOR PARENTS 2010 SECONDARY SCHOOLS INFORMATION FOR PARENTS 2010 Education Authority: North Lanarkshire SECONDARY SCHOOLS Leaver Destinations Number Of Pupils Leaving In School Year 2009/2010 And Percentage With Destination Education Authority: North Lanarkshire As: Leaver Destinations Total Number of Leavers (=100%) 3,653 Number Of Pupils Leaving In School Year 2009/2010 And Percentage With Destination Higher Education 35 As: Further Education 25 Total Number of Leavers (=100%) 3,653 7 Training Higher Education 35 18 Employment Further Education 25 Other Known 13 Training 7 Not Known Employment 18 1 Other Known Not KeyKnown to symbols:

13 1

Percentages for schools where the number of leavers is greater than 0 but less than 5 have been Keyby to asterisks symbols: (**) because they could be misleading or lead to identification of individuals. replaced Percentages for schools where number of leavers is greater than 0 but with less than have been The symbol (##) indicates that thethe data are not available or comparable other5 years because replaced asterisks (**) because they could misleading or lead to identification individuals. the school hasby recently opened or merged withbe another school, or is temporarily of closed. The symbol (##) indicates that the data are not available or comparable with other years because the school has recently opened or merged with another school, or is temporarily closed.

Budgeted Running Costs For Financial Year 2010-2011

School Roll at September 2009 Budgeted Running Costs For Financial Year 2010-2011 21,486 School Running Roll at September 21,486 Total School Costs at2009 April 2010 (£) 114,512,093 Total School 114,512,093 Cost per Pupil (£) Running Costs at April 2010 (£) 5,330 Cost per Pupil (£)

5,330

Key to symbols: The symbol ## indicates that the data are not available. Key to symbols: The symbol ## indicates that the data are not available.

Attendance And Absence SchoolYear Year2009/2010 2009/2010 Attendance And Absence For For School S1

S1

Total Total Number of NumberPossible of 1,529,679 Possible Attendances1,529,679 Attendances (Pupil Half (Pupil Half Days) Days) Percentage Authorised 5.5 Percentage Absences Authorised 5.5 Percentage Absences Unauthorise 2.4 Percentage d Unauthorise Absences 2.4 d Absences Key to symbols:

S2 S2 1,528,564

1,528,564

6.2

6.2 3.2

3.2

S3 S3

Stage Stage

S4 S4

S5 S5

S1-5 S1-5

1,499,544

1,477,942

1,123,923

7,159,652

7.1

6.9

6.6

6.5

1,499,544

7.1 4.3

4.3

1,477,942

1,123,923

6.9 5.3

7,159,652

6.6 4.6

5.3

Asterisks (**) have been inserted instead of figures for some schools and categories:

6.5 3.9

4.6

Counts and percentages based on data for more than 0 but fewer than 5 pupils, because Key to symbols: beinserted misleading or leadoftofigures the identification individuals. Asterisks (**) they havecould been instead for someofschools and categories: In other cases, it is not possible for the school to have any data for the category, for Counts and percentages based on data for more than 0 but fewer than 5 pupils, because example, cases where the relevant year group roll figure is zero. they could beindicates misleading or lead tohas therecently identification The symbol (##) that the school openedoforindividuals. merged with another school and Ininformation other cases, it is not possible for the school to have any data for the category, for this is not available. example, cases where the relevant year group roll figure is zero. The symbol (##) indicates that the school has recently opened or merged with another school and this information is not available.

103

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School Handbook 2011/2012

INFORMATION FOR PARENTS 2010 SECONDARY SCHOOLS National Data

Leaver Destinations Number Of Pupils Leaving In School Year 2009/2010 And Percentage With Destination As: 54,097 36 27 5 19 13 1

Total Number of Leavers (=100%) Higher Education Further Education Training Employment Other Known Not Known

Key to symbols: Percentages for schools where the number of leavers is greater than 0 but less than 5 have been replaced by asterisks (**) because they could be misleading or lead to identification of individuals. The symbol (##) indicates that the data are not available or comparable with other years because the school has recently opened or merged with another school, or is temporarily closed.

Budgeted Running Costs For Financial Year 2010-2011

302,921 1,695,802,434 5,598

School Roll at September 2009 Total School Running Costs at April 2010 (£) Cost per Pupil (£) Key to symbols: The symbol ## indicates that the data are not available.

Attendance And Absence For School Year 2009/2010 Stage Total Number of Possible Attendances (Pupil Half Days) Percentage Authorised Absences Percentage Unauthorised Absences

S1

S2

S3

S4

S5

S1-5

20,375,279

20,601,741

21,076,798

20,825,660

15,739,991

98,619,469

5.3

6.2

7.0

6.4

5.8

6.2

1.5

2.2

3.0

3.5

2.8

2.6

Key to symbols: Asterisks (**) have been inserted instead of figures for some schools and categories: Counts and percentages based on data for more than 0 but fewer than 5 pupils, because they could be misleading or lead to the identification of individuals. In other cases, it is not possible for the school to have any data for the category, for example, cases where the relevant year group roll figure is zero. The symbol (##) indicates that the school has recently opened or merged with another school and this information is not available.

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SECTION 37: TRANSFORMATIONAL PLAN IMPROVEMENT PLAN TARGETS 2010-11 VISION

Taylor High School will be a school where pupils, parents, staff and the wider community will work together in partnership to enhance the development of our young people through the use of technology in learning to enable them to develop skills for life and meet the challenges of the 21st Century. This vision sees pupils working collaboratively, co-operating with each other and accessing appropriate technology in the delivery of their learning experiences. Pre-requisite ICT skills will be necessary for all pupils to ensure their active engagement and success in this enhanced approach to learning and steps will be taken to ensure that the school’s existing highly regarded Primary-Secondary Continuity Programme is enhanced to take account of students’ prior learning in ICT and to help with the further development of these skills. It will define achievement in a broader way that will include Skills for Work, vocational and enterprise experiences, and courses geared to meet the needs of all pupils. This will be recognised in the school’s Celebrating Success Programme.

STRUCTURE OF THE PLAN

The plan has three outcomes:

Outcome 1 The school will continue to develop and implement proposals designed to realise the vision put forward by national and local guidance on A Curriculum for Excellence. Summary Details Following considerable work undertaken during session 2009-10, the school is well placed to implement key aspects of Building the Curriculum 3, particularly in First Year in relation to interdisciplinary learning. The structure of this outcome for session 2010-11 is designed to build on this work and continue the process of preparing for CfE implementation in Second Year and subsequent stages. Outcome 2 The school will continue to develop a dynamic, engaging and motivating learning environment based on the effective use of a range of approaches to learning and teaching and with appropriate further development of the use of technology in learning. Summary Details Consistent and innovative approaches to learning will be developed in all departments based on the further development of co-operative learning and AifL techniques. The school’s TLC will be supported as required to complement approaches at departmental and teacher level.

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Technology will continue to be used on a planned and effective basis by both pupils and staff. The use of self-evaluation, tracking and monitoring will be developed to ensure widespread adoption across the school. The recently implemented Leadership Academy will be further developed to ensure that it impacts on the wider life of the school. Staff development issues associated with these and other initiatives will be addressed within existing resources Outcome 3 The school will continue to support the intellectual, physical, emotional and spiritual development of its young people, based on Gospel values, into mature young adults and to provide access to a wide range of support services for all pupils with particular emphasis on GIRFEC and the personal support entitlement outlined in a Curriculum for Excellence. Summary Details This outcome seeks to ensure that all staff fully understand their role in relation to Child Protection issues. In addition it addresses the school’s ongoing programme of implementing Restorative Practice techniques in relation to positive pupil discipline. The outcome also addresses the faith dimension of the life of the school and the need for multi-agency working.

IMPACT OF THE PLAN Each outcome has a range of actions designed to produce an appropriate impact. The detailed impacts expected from the plan are as follows: • Improved pupil attainment and achievement with particular reference to gender and lower achieving pupils • Improved pupil attendance • Increased pupil enthusiasm for learning, both in and out of school • Evidence of increased and confident engagement of pupils in learning cooperatively • Evidence of high quality pupil work across the curriculum , and in evidence in a variety of technological forms • Improved pupils’ communication skills whether working independently or cooperatively • Evidence of pupils’ taking more responsibility for their own learning • Evidence of successful and effective creative use of technology by pupils in learning • Evidence of the impact of technology on the development of skills for life and work

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Taylor High School

technology school of ambition • Evidence of increased engagement of parents/carers in their children’s learning • Evidence of improved self-confidence of staff in the use of a range of teaching approaches including the use of technology to enhance learning • Evidence of the further development of leadership across the school among staff and pupils

MONITORING AND EVALUATION The effective delivery of the plan will be monitored in a range of ways. The Improvement Planning Team will have an important role in overseeing the plan’s implementation. In addition members of senior management, the Pupil Support Team and Principal Teachers Curriculum will also discharge key roles in ensuring the effective delivery of the plan’s outcomes and action points. A timeline for evaluation will be followed throughout the year.

SECTION 38 : CONTACT WITH PARENTS 1. Meetings requested by Parents As has been indicated throughout this Handbook, liaison between teachers and parents is fundamental to the progress of individual students. Parents should therefore feel free to contact the school at any time. They may write or telephone at any time for an interview to be arranged with an appropriate member of staff, via the Pupil Support Teacher. Telephone No: 01698 352590 Fax: 01698 833086 e-mail: [email protected] 2. Meetings arranged by the School (a) Formal Parents’ Meetings - see section on Parent’s Evening. (b) Individual Meetings/Contacts Depute Head Teacher/Pupil Support Staff may request an interview with parents concerning an aspect of their child’s welfare, progress or behaviour.

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3. Newsletters and Press Releases The school Newsletter - the Taylor Times - is published regularly. This provides parents with up-to-date information on various developments in the school. Information regarding formal meetings and school news is also included in Parish Bulletins and a school press release is issued to local newspapers each week. 4. Mailshots On certain occasions a mailshot is sent out by the school. For example, for a number of years, parents of students in Fourth, Fifth and Sixth Years have received a mailshot before Easter which provides important information about preparations for national examinations, advice to parents on assisting their children with their studies and information on study leave. Other stages also receive appropriate information from time to time in a similar way.

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SECTION 39: ASSOCIATED PRIMARY SCHOOLS Our Lady & St Francis Primary School H.T. Mrs M Nicol

Newarthill Road, Carfin, Motherwell, ML1 5AL Tel: 263 967

Christ the King Primary School H.T. Mrs P McBride

Melrose Avenue, Holytown Motherwell Tel: 733 815

St. Teresa’s Primary School H.T. Mr J Prentice

85a Loanhead Road, Newarthill Motherwell, ML1 5AY Tel: 732 329

St. Mary’s Primary School H.T. Mrs P Maxwell

Chapel Street, Cleland Motherwell, ML1 5QX Tel: 860 359

St. Patrick’s Primary School H.T. Mrs C Adair

Coronation Road East, New Stevenston, Motherwell, ML1 4HX Tel: 352 528

Cathedral Primary School H.T. Mrs M Shields

Park Street, Motherwell, ML1 1PT Tel: 352 540

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SECTION 40: IMPORTANT ADDRESSES 1.

Executive Director 2. Area Office 19 Learning and Leisure Services Campbell Street North Lanarkshire Council WISHAW Kildonan Street Tel.: Wishaw 374679 Coatbridge ML5 3 BT Tel.: Coatbridge 812222

3. Skills Development Scotland 4. Community Services North Lanarkshire Centre BelIshill Area 61 Stirling Street John Street Airdrie BELLSHILL ML6 0AS Tel.: Bellshill 844607 Tel.: 01236 757400 5. The names of councillors covering the Taylor High area are given below. They can be contacted at the Civic Centre, Motherwell, Tel. 01698 302222. Helen McKenna Peter Nolan Gordon Stewart Anita McAuley Quality Improvement Officer (QIO) Quality Improvement Managers (QIM) Additional Support Needs (ASN) Manager

Tim Sharpe Joseph McAvoy Brian Kelly Stewart Murray Elaine Walker

Contacts relating to Additional Support Needs Help and advice on any matters relating to Additional Support Needs are available from: Elaine Walker Motherwell Area Additional Support Manager Muirhouse Primary School 66 Barons Road Motherwell ML1 2NB 01698 252041 Elaine Reid may be contacted directly or through the school.

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technology school of ambition You can also get more help and advice from: Enquire – the Scottish advice service for additional support for learning. Operated by Children in Scotland, Enquire offers independent confidential advice and information on additional support for learning. Enquire also provide a range of factsheets, 0845 123 2303 [email protected] www.enquire.org.uk for parents and practitioners www.enquireorg.uk/yp for children and young people Resolve 0131 222 2456 (Independent Adjudicator) Scottish Independent Advocacy Alliance Melrose House 69a George Street Edinburgh EH2 2JG 0131 260 5380 [email protected] www.siaa.org.uk Reference to Tribunal Europa Building 450 Argyle Street Glasgow G2 8LG Tel: 0141 242 0367 NHS Lanarkshire Bellshill Bellshill Health Centre

01698 747572

Motherwell Motherwell Health Centre

01698 242610

Social Work Bellshill 303 Main Street Bellshill ML4 1AW Motherwell Scott House 73/77 Merry Street Motherwell ML11 1JE

01698 346666

01698 332100

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SECTION 41: APPENDICES appendix 1

Tel: 01698 352590 Fax: 01698 833086

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appendix 2

Tel: 01698 352590 Fax: 01698 833086

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SECTION 42 :GLOSSARY OF TERMS A.H. A.S.P. COMMON COURSE CONSORTIUM CONTINUOUS ASSESSMENT CO-OPERATIVE TEACHING C.P.D. C.S.P. CURRICULUM DIARY / PLANNER D.S.M. E.I.L. E.M.A ETHOS F.E. H.E. L.S. MIXED ABILITY CLASSES OR GROUPS NATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS NQ UNITS P7/S1 P.S.H.E. P.S.T. P.T. ‘S’ GRADES S.Q.A. TERTIARY EDUCATION T.S.S WORK EXPERIENCE

Advanced Higher Additional Support Plan The subjects followed by all pupils in First and Second Years. An association of schools and a Further Education College in an area which provides as wide a variety of courses as possible for senior pupils. Assessment based on regular evaluation of course work often supplemented by regular tests. Refers to the presence of more than one teacher in a classroom enabling added help to be given to individual pupils. Continuous Professional Development. Coordinated Support Plan All the experiences of learning which are planned and organised by the school. A booklet issued to all pupils at the beginning of each session to help them record homework and plan their studies. Devolved School Management. Education-Industry Links. Education Maintenance Allowance. The general atmosphere aimed at within the school. Further Education Higher Education Learning Support Pupils of a wide range of ability taught together as a class. The work of such a group is often based on individual and group assignments. Post-16 course structure from 1999 onwards. National Qualifications elements, normally of 40 hours duration, which can be free-standing or contribute to a course award. Primary 7/Secondary Year One. Personal Social and Health Education. Pupil Support Team (formerly generally referred to as ‘Guidance’). Principal Teacher Standard Grades Scottish Qualifications Authority. Post Secondary school education such as is provided by colleges, universities, further education establishments. Team Sports (Scotland) An opportunity for potential school leavers to mix with adults in work

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Taylor High School

technology school of ambition

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School Handbook 2011/2012

Although this information is correct at time of printing, there could be changes affecting any of the matters dealt with in the document (a) before the commencement or during the course of the school year in question. (b) in relation to subsequent school years. By law Authorities are required to issue a copy of the school handbook to certain parents in December each year. It details the current policies and practices of both the council and the school.

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