Copthall School Prospectus

A very warm welcome to Copthall School.

Copthall is a modern, caring, multi-cultural comprehensive school. The students are a credit to themselves and the school. They form a respectful and hard working community. There is a real flavour of industry and ambition here. Our students participate and contribute to both the school and wider community

Copthall is a high achieving school. The examination results continue to go from strength to strength. We are recognised for our wide range of subjects for all age groups. Attainment in our Sixth Form is consistently outstanding, with nearly all of our Year 13 students progressing to university.

Our students have very many opportunities and responsibilities. Their views are important as well as their working relationships with each other. They are taught how to work 'smartly' so that they can use these skills at school and in their future careers. There are many clubs, activities and out of school visits. The classrooms, corridors and display areas are a vibrant celebration of the students' work and achievements.

We work closely with parents and involve them fully in what their daughters are studying, how they are performing, and setting targets for further progress. Our staff are talented, well-qualified, experienced and committed to helping all our girls. In partnership, we will succeed in fulfilling your daughter's potential for a well-qualified, successful, happy future.

We look forward to working with you and your daughter.

Jane Beaumont, Headteacher

"As Chair of Governors I am proud to be associated with Copthall School. In working with the Headteacher and staff, the Governing Body has its focus on the best interests of the students. As individuals, we want them to achieve to the best of their abilities whilst at the same time enjoying both work and play.

The Governing Body of any school is made up of individuals with diverse occupational backgrounds. This gives us the opportunity to bring both educational and non-educational skills and advice to the overall management of the school. We work in close partnership with the Headteacher and the Senior Leadership Team of the school and share the common goal of wanting the best for students. Nothing gives us more pleasure than seeing both individual and collective success stories." David Hallworth, Chair of Governors.

"Copthall School is an intelligent school." Mayowa, now in Year 10.

Copthall School
Pursley Road
Mill Hill
NW7 2EP

Telephone 020 8959 1937
Fascimile 020 8959 8736
Web-site: http://copthall.barnet.lgfl.net
Email enquiries@easymail.copthall.barnet.sch.uk

"Copthall is a good school. Students make good progress and reach standards that are above average by the end of Key Stage 4. They enjoy coming to school and feel particularly safe and get on well together." Ofsted 2008

Copthall will strive to be a centre of excellence for life-long learning and enterprise education encompassing the comprehensive ideal. We will aim to provide a modern, diverse curriculum which will support and challenge our community of learners, preparing them for a fast changing world. We will encourage all learners to reach their full potential by providing them with curriculum choice and the appropriate support for their learning. We will be an outward looking organisation which cares for its community.

Copthall became a Business and Enterprise Specialist School in 2002. Since then we have used our specialist status to create a rich learning environment in partnership with organisations including local schools, colleges, higher education institutions and businesses. Our students are offered a range of activities within the curriculum and, as extra-curricular opportunities, to develop their skills and expertise as consumers, producers entrepreneurs and citizens.

"The good curriculum ... offers a good range of academic subjects with some vocational and alternative options, and many popular enrichment activities...Teachers use their subject knowledge well to give good interesting lessons that enable students to make good progress." Ofsted 2008

"There are a lot more subjects that we didn't have at primary school. I really like doing Food Technology, because we get to cook really nice food." Naomi, now in Year 9
"Copthall has nice friendly staff who are there to help all of the students when help is needed." Jennie, now in Year 10.

" As an ex-student of Copthall School, who also has had two daughters educated here, it is both interesting and exciting to be part of the governing body, which aims to continually improve on the excellent educational standards the school provides." Maria Pierides, Community Governor.

Copthall offers an increasingly modern, diverse curriculum. A full range of National Curriculum subjects is taught at Key Stage 3 (student ages 11-14). There are opportunities for students to take GCSE examinations earlier than usual and be given support as is appropriate. The majority of subjects at Key Stage 4 (14-16) offer pathways to a range of courses at Key Stage 5 (16-19).

Our commitment to the importance of Business & Enterprise education is set out in our enriched curriculum and in our work with our partner schools and organisations. Our Specialist College status celebrates this. We make full use of technology. A well-stocked, ICT networked library is open every day from 8.00 am until 5.00 pm. Our laboratories, studios and workshops are well-equipped. We have a large, modern sports' hall and many other sports' facilities.

"Care guidance and support is good, with strong pastoral teams which know students well." Ofsted 2008

"I feel safe when I come into school." Urvi, Year 8.

"When I first visited Copthall I knew the school was special. I love working here in an environment of mutual respect and shared anticipation of success." Mr Jones, Deputy Headteacher.

The progress and welfare of every child matters very much. We provide a well-structured and supportive educational environment, which allows every girl to excel. A caring relationship based on mutual respect and co-operation between staff and students who share expectations and agreed standards of behaviour, helps to create a happy atmosphere conducive to effective learning. Our Code of Conduct, developed in consultation with our community, is based on each student's right to learn in a positive and supportive school. The students appreciate the value of respect and self-responsibility. They are rewarded when they do well and they are taught about leading healthy, safe lifestyles. The school is very well-ordered and purposeful; key to this is our belief that a shared sense of community is essential to the smooth running of the school. Our students know that care and support is always available in order for our high expectations to be met.

"Students are making good progress between joining school and the end of Key Stage 4 progress in the sixth form is outstanding." Ofsted 2008

"Copthall is a school where you have a chance to learn." Christine, now in Year 10

Our students receive specialist teaching in all subjects. Staff have high expectations and our girls work hard. Teachers give regular feedback to students about the progress they are making and how to make further improvements. Teachers set relevant, challenging activities in class and for homework. Girls know that they can approach their teachers for extra guidance and support.

We offer real quality of provision for Gifted and Talented students. We have wide ranging programmes for meeting each child's learning needs.

"I really enjoy being a Year Co-ordinator at Copthall. I delight in seeing 'my girls', blossom into young women." Ms Ajayi, Year Co-ordinator

"Students enjoy coming to school... all students contribute to the community ." Ofsted 2008

"Every year we can go on a school trip." Students in Year 8.
"The activities on the school journeys are enjoyable. There are a variety of trips to choose from so everyone can find something they like." Abema, now in Year 11.

Copthall is a busy, vibrant place. Our celebrations of music, drama, dance, languages, sport , public speaking, enterprise and community activities involve very many students. There are many residential courses in Britain and abroad that support our work in school. Our students gain a great deal and represent us magnificently on these occasions proving to be wonderful ambassadors for the school.

"Students (in the sixth form) enjoy school. They have positive attitudes to study, contribute strongly to the school and local community and are well prepared for their future...attainment on the AS and A Level courses is exceptionally high and students make outstanding progress. The sixth form provides outstanding care, guidance and support." Ofsted 2008

"One of the many reasons I decided to join Copthall sixth form was due to the high standards of teaching and learning. Since I've joined I have seen a difference in myself and my grades. I have found it extremely easy to fit in as the girls are welcoming and helpful." Rejwana- sixth form student.
"I have been given a great amount of support in my education." Katy, sixth form student

The sixth form is a lively, successful and busy place to be. There are courses at AS and A2 level including Applied A Levels and industry-recognised vocational qualifications. A very full range of subjects is offered. Our enrichment programme includes: community work in local primary schools, the School Council and 6th Form Committee, clubs/societies, and a range of 'one off activities' such as visits to universities, seminars and other events.

Our students enjoy being involved in the school community, for example by supporting younger students in their learning and Young Enterprise Activities with partner schools. The majority of our students in Year 11 remain with us in to the Sixth Form, however we welcome a substantial number of new entrants to the school in Year 12 every year. We offer an induction programme which includes careful course guidance. This is an important part of enabling new Sixth Formers to settle quickly and with confidence.

The Sixth form "recruits well from within the school and external institutions." Ofsted 2008

"Since I've joined the Copthall School Association I feel much closer to the school. I am amazed to see the time and effort that is put in to raise money so our girls can enjoy even better facilities in the future." Mrs Singh, parent

We value our relationships with parents who are involved fully in their daughter's progress. Working in consultation we provide additional support as appropriate, share curriculum developments and involve parents in suggesting ways in which they may support their daughter's learning at home. Parental support is invaluable and reinforces the high expectations we have of our students. We welcome parental contact and invite feedback both formally, via an annual questionnaire, and informally at any time, with ideas for further improvement.

The school takes great care to welcome all new students into the community, making them feel secure and at home from their first day. For our Year 7 students, regular contact with local primary schools means that Copthall is already a familiar place to most girls. There is a programme in place to introduce new students and parents to the key staff and routines in school before the start of the new academic year. For our Year 12 students there is careful guidance about the appropriate choice of sixth form courses and an induction programme, which prepares our young women for study at Key Stage 5.

"Copthall School has good facilities for students to use." Laura, now in Year 10.

Since the 1930's Copthall School has provided first rate education for girls for which it is renowned. Following a number of highly successful Ofsted reports, Copthall continues to be 'an outstandingly successful school'.

Originally established as a Grammar school in 1936, Copthall merged with Woodcroft School in 1971. It became a single school in two separate locations for around 1,200 girls organised as a Junior and Senior High School. The school was named Copthall after Copt Hall, a local 17th Century manor house and the home of the Nicholl family.

In 1973, Copthall became a comprehensive secondary school for girls aged 11-18 years, committed to providing the best possible education for all girls within a supportive and secure community.

Extensive rebuilding and refurbishment meant that from September 1996, Copthall School was housed on one site. The superb new facilities and resources support an ordered and happy learning environment. 2008 sees further development with 4 new purpose built classrooms including ICT suites.

The school badge incorporates those of the two former schools and the Nicoll family crest. The crest symbolises a modern school which is firmly rooted in the traditions and achievements of the past.

Copthall remains a school that provides an excellent well-rounded education

The school badge incorporates those of the two former schools and the Nicoll family crest. The crest symbolises a modern school which is firmly rooted in the traditions and achievements of the past. Copthall remains a school that provides an excellent well-rounded education.

Homework is regarded as a fundamental part of successful learning at Copthall School. We convey the following messages to our students about homework:

• It helps you learn to work on your own. It teaches you how to plan and organise your work.
• It gives you the chance to practise what you have done in class, or to do some background work that will help you understand what's coming next.
• It gives the teacher a chance to check that you have understood the lesson and to find out about any difficulties you are having.
• It helps you to learn by thinking things out for yourself and putting them into your own words

Wearing school uniform is an important part of forging a cohesive and caring school community. It also helps prepare students for adult life by dressing appropriately and professionally for work. The uniform also promotes and supports proper health and safety in school.

The school uniform
Black Watch tartan kilt or Black Watch tartan trousers
Navy blue v-neck jumper with green stripe trim
Mint green cotton/polyester shirt
Plain white round-necked tee-shirt (only) below shirt during cold weather
Short sleeved mint green shirt optional in Summer term
Plain white or navy socks or flesh coloured, navy or black tights
Black flat shoes - not trainers or boots
School navy blue overcoat - must be purchased from Howard Bros.
Hair bands must be green or navy
Any scarf must be navy or Black Watch tartan

For physical Education lessons:
Plain navy blue shorts (NO logo)
Navy blue pleated games skirt
Navy blue cotton/polyester tee-shirt with school logo
Navy blue sweatshirt with embroidered school logo. Note: the sweatshirt can only be worn with the PE uniform and over the tee-shirt
Plimsolls or trainers may be purchased from any shops that stock them but they must have non-marking soles
Plain navy blue track-suit bottoms, (no logo) only to be worn with permission from PE staff.

For Dance lessons:
Navy blue shorts (as worn for PE) or navy blue leggings
Navy blue blouse (as worn for PE)
Plimsolls or jazz shoes

Jewellery and Make-Up
Girls are permitted to wear only the following items:

1. In pierced ears, one pair of small, plain silver or gold studs or small rings. No other piercings are allowed. If students opt to have piercings (eg nose studs), this must be done at the beginning of the Summer holidays so that they can heal and be removed for the start of school in September.
2. A wrist watch.
3. One religious symbol, on a chain. For health and safety reasons the chain must be long enough to be worn inside the blouse.
4. Make-up and nail extensions/ coloured nail varnish may not be worn and students will be asked to remove it at Student Services at a cost of 20p
5. Hair styles and colour must be appropriate for school

Note: No watches or jewellery (including stud earrings) may be worn in PE or Dance lessons.

School uniform suppliers:
Howard Brothers,
30 The Broadway,
Mill Hill,
London
NW7 3LL
Tel. 020-8959-4987

Note: all items of clothing must be clearly labelled with their owner's name

"The school's specialist status involves students well with local schools or businesses and teamwork that prepares them suitably for the future...Guidance provided at each transition stage is good and supplemented by informative activities." Ofsted 2008

Making the right choice for the future is of paramount importance. Girls are made aware of both employment and further education opportunities throughout their time at Copthall. A planned and coordinated programme of careers guidance is delivered by expert careers' staff, supported by the Connexions / Prospects service which helps students choose appropriate career paths. Students take part in two weeks' work experience during their time in each of Key Stage 4 and 5.

The careers programme culminates in the Sixth Form with individual interviews, career-related work experience both in the UK and abroad and visits to universities and colleges.

Representatives from higher education, industry and the professions regularly visit the school to support the curriculum and to provide experience of, and information about the world of work.

LOWER SCHOOL CURRICULUM - (KEY STAGE 3 - YEARS 7 - 9)
All students study: English, Mathematics, a Modern Foreign Language (most take two Languages), Science, Design and Technology, Information Technology, History, Geography, Art, Music, Drama, Dance, Physical Education, Religious Education and Personal, Citizenship and Health Education (PCHE).

UPPER SCHOOL CURRICULUM (KEY STAGE 4 - YEARS 10 - 11)
In Year 10 after considerable consultation and a personal interview with a Senior Teacher in Year 9, a wide range of GCSE options become available. Every student studies: English and English Literature, Mathematics, Dual or Single Science, a Modern Language (French, German or Spanish), History or Geography and Information Technology and can choose two additional subject options from the following extensive list: Art, Business Studies, Dance, Design and Technology, Drama, French, Geography, History, Music, Physical Education, Religious Education and Sociology. Links with local colleges are available for individual students and vocational courses are being developed at Copthall. All students participate in non-examination PCHE and PE courses over the GCSE years. At Copthall we are keen to develop the curriculum so that all students achieve their potential. As a result, a process of review and development takes place annually.

OPPORTUNITY FOR ALL
All Year 7 students benefit from a Study Skills and Whole Brain Learning programme as part of the PCHE course.

Some students will need additional help with their studies, be they exceptionally able or less academic and at Copthall they receive special or individualised, but not necessarily separate, provision. Enrichment activities at Copthall also provide help to support and develop these particular needs.

Appropriate provision for students with learning difficulties or emotional and behavioural difficulties is regulated by termly meetings of the Special Education Needs Intervention Team.

A teacher who specialises in Multilingual Education helps those students for whom English is an additional language.

For the more able student, more demanding work, extra activities and additional support are provided.

We believe that the best possible outcomes for our students are secured through working in partnership with parents and carers. The Home-school agreement or contract below sets out the basis of this partnership.

The school code on behaviour underpins the very good learning, teaching and attainment in the school. It is a clear statement of expectations for our school community and was last reviewed by the school community in 2007-2008 to ensure that it continues to be clear and supportive of a caring, happy safe and high achieving community.

BEHAVIOUR We always expect our students to behave in a reasonable and respectful manner. The Code of Conduct helps to maintain a learning environment which is free from disruption and provides equal opportunities for all students.