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All pupils, regardless of race, gender, culture, faith or physical handicap, are entitled to and receive the same educational opportunities at Queensbury School. 
We are committed to achieving the highest standard of teaching and learning at Queensbury School which we believe is at the heart of individual achievement. We have high expectations of all our students and encourage them to take responsibility for their learning. We recognise the value of varied, active work, and the importance of encouragement and praise in a secure, well-ordered teaching and learning environment.
Students with particular needs are provided with additional support to enable them to take advantage of the opportunities offered by the school and to succeed. Students are not withdrawn from lessons but supported within them. Able pupils are encouraged to take advantage of opportunities for accelerated studies. The progress of all students is monitored against ambitious targets that build on the strengths of each student. Transfer between teaching groups occurs when required and the matter discussed with parents if this is to take place.
On five occasions each academic year the normal timetable is suspended and students have the opportunity to study a topic or subject “in-depth” for that day. These days are known as “Challenge Days” as students are challenged to acquire new skills or knowledge and understanding and work in a way that is new to them. Themes for the days have so far included Enterprise, Our multi-cultural world, Healthy Lifestyles, Preparation for working life and Chinese New Year.
Homework
Homework is an essential part of the curriculum in all years of the school.
Students enter their homework in their Planner which tutors check regularly.
We ask parents to accept the importance of homework and support their children in ensuring that homework is completed and deadlines are adhered to.
Parents are asked to sign the Planner every week to confirm that they know what work has been set and completed.
More details about homework can be found in the Planner.
Homework is a regular and integral part of every subject at school. The type of homework set will vary. Homework tasks may involve -
• research,
• action planning,
• practical and written work,
• reading and revision for tests.
Every student should take a positive and mature attitude towards homework and meet all deadlines. If students have problems with homework they must speak to their teacher immediately, they must not let things build up. All students are encouraged to take advantage of any specific subject homework or study club or extra class which may be available at lunch time or after school.
Remember - failure to complete homework on time is always viewed as a serious matter and will prevent a student from achieving the highest grade possible.
Key StageThree (Years 7 to 9) 
When students join the school in Key Stage 3 they all study the following courses:
Mathematics
English
Science
Modern Language
Humanities
Technology
ICT (Information and Communications Technology)
Expressive Arts (Art, Drama and Music)
PE and Games
Some students are able to move through the key stage faster than the usual 3 years and may start some of their GCSE subjects early. All students have the opportunity to gain a qualification in ICT during year 9.
Key Stage Four (Years 10-11)
There are some subjects which students have to study because they are still part of the Core National Curriculum. These are: -
Mathematics, English, Science, PE, Citizenship, ICT
At Queensbury we think students should have a broad and balanced curriculum in order to keep their options open. We run a wide variety of traditional GCSEs, Btec courses and the new Diplomas at level 1 and 2 (GCSE grades D-G and A*-C respectively). To help students make choices that will best meet their needs they are guided to select courses from a particular “pathway”. All pathways contain a wide range of courses so that all students have a genuine choice about what they study.
Students can combine a course with a particular vocational emphasise with a range of other subject based GCSEs and get the best of both worlds in terms of qualifications, the type of assessment demands, the way of working in the classroom and a balanced choose of subjects (For further details please ask for a copy of the Key Stage 4 Choices Booklet)
A course leading to a vocational qualification is more directly related to the world of work. These do not provide training for a specific job. They do, however, develop skills and knowledge relevant to a wide occupational area. At Queensbury students have the opportunity of choosing between Business, Health & Social Care, Art & Design, ICT, Construction, 3D Design and performance studies
As part of the South Bradford confederation we offer a wide range of diplomas at levels 1 and 2. Students who select these may study part of the course at Queensbury School and part, or all of it, at another provider.
Compulsory Core courses:-
• A Citizenship programme which includes modules in RE, Finance, Politics, the Law a HealthEducation.
• All students receive regular Careers Guidance lessons which are aimed at increasing your awareness of the 'world beyond the school' and which will prepare you for the wide range of decisions that you will be required to make at the age of sixteen and beyond.
• Everyone takes part in Physical Education lessons which are vital for your physical development and general well being
• Every student is taught one ICT lesson a week Year 11
Work Experience: Work Experience is a central part of the curriculum in Year 10 and takes place in the Spring term. Students are encouraged to actively seek their own placements although they can be helped to find them. All students are briefed before they go out and keep a record of their experience which may be used towards a formal qualification. A period of Work Experience is a central element in vocational courses and all members of the Sixth Form are encouraged to arrange a further Work Experience or Work Shadowing placement.
Post-16 (Years 12 - 13)
At Post-16 we aim to provide an opportunity to gain further qualifications for personal development and enhancing career prospects.
The number of young people deciding to join the Sixth Form at Queensbury has increased year by year and now as part of a confederate of schools the choices and opportunities at Post-16 is greatly enhanced (For details please ask for a copy of the Post-16 Prospectus).
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