GOVERNORS’ ANNUAL REVIEW 2013/14 · 8 EEW 20132014 ANNUAL REVIEW 2013/2014 9 % Strongly Agree %...

2013/14GOVERNORS’ ANNUAL REVIEW

WIRRAL GRAMMAR SCHOOL

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Chair of Governor’s Introduction ...............................................................5

Headteacher’s Introduction .....................................................................5

Examination Achievement .........................................................................6

Parent Survey 2013-14 .............................................................................7

Analysis of Parent Survey Responses for All Years (2013-14) ....................8

Pupil Premium ..........................................................................................9

Closing Achievement Gaps .......................................................................9

‘In The News’ 2013/2014 .......................................................................10

Pupils’ Fundraising Success ...................................................................12

High Standards of Teaching and Learning ...........................................12

The Princess Diana Award ......................................................................13

The Work of Our Parents’ Association ....................................................13

Annual Financial Statement ...................................................................14

Governors and Accountability ................................................................17

‘Thinking and Learning’ For Staff ............................................................19

Key School Developments ......................................................................20

Community Partnerships 2013 ...............................................................21

Sporting Achievements 2013/2014 .........................................................23

Music and Performance ..........................................................................24

Self-Review ............................................................................................27

Positive Feedback ..................................................................................33

Overseas Links .......................................................................................35

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CONTENTS

“My son started the school as a young boy and left us a young man. Wirral Grammar has set him up for life.”

Year 13 Parent

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HEADTEACHER’S INTRODUCTION

Welcome to our third Annual Review.

Wirral Grammar School has enjoyed a long tradition of relative independence. In the mid-1990s the school was one of the first ‘Grant Maintained Schools’ which were

funded directly from Central Government. More recently, since 2011, our school has been an Academy and the freedoms that we currently enjoy are more or less the same as those of the early Grant Maintained days.

The Governors share the fundamental belief that local autonomy with accountability works well and this is evidenced through our ability to make decisions that we feel are in the direct interests of our pupils and our immediate school community. At the forefront of our school aims is the focus on maximising the academic

attainment of all pupils; while this is our top priority, it is also recognised that to provide a broad and balanced education, there has to be a commitment to wide-ranging enrichment activities.

In our view, effective schooling is about ‘building ‘character’. Employers will always be keen to know about an applicant’s academic record but they are also keen to know about their work place skills: whether they can work effectively with others, their ability to take the initiative, problem-solve and see tasks through to completion. We believe that academic excellence and extra-curricular enrichment go hand in hand in producing young adults who are able to face the demands of University degree courses, High Level Apprenticeships and future work place demand with the greatest of confidence.

It is the shared view of our school community that Wirral Grammar School for Boys is successful in what it sets out to achieve.

No school is ‘perfect’ in every way and we continually review our achievements and seek ways in which we can ‘raise the bar’ still further.

As in previous Annual Reviews, I wish to re-state that our school would not be the flourishing community that it is today without the confidence, help and support of parents who quite understandably have the highest of expectations. Our Teaching and Support staff are collectively the best team that I have worked with in my thirty year career and I am always appreciative of their determination to leave no stone unturned in seeking to provide the very best for our pupils.

David HazeldineHeadteacher

CHAIR OF GOVERNOR’S INTRODUCTION

The academic year 2013-2014 was my first in the role of Chair of Governors, although my membership of the Governing Body extends back over a much longer period.

The Annual Review provides an overview

of our main achievements of 2013-2014 and it can be seen that these achievements were very broad and varied. As Governors, with the ever expanding demands for statutory accountability, we never lose sight of the fact that at the heart of a successful school are the young people we serve. It is most gratifying to see our pupils make

that important seven year journey from the day that they start with us as young boys, through to the day that they leave as young adults, ready to take their place in society.

As Governors of an Academy, we are in effect, Company Directors. Responsibility for finance and management brings with it high levels of challenge and expectation. We have a duty to hold the school to account and closely monitor standards and we undertake this through a structure of link meetings with senior school leaders with meetings taking place throughout the year.

The academic year 2013-2014 was highly successful and this is conveyed through the pages of our Annual Review. Sustaining high

standards of provision and outcomes in both the academic and pastoral sides to school life is very much a team performance. As ever, I am grateful to all of the staff of the school for giving so generously of their time and to all of the parents who do their utmost to encourage and support their sons on their journey through school.

Mrs Sheila Clarke MBE Chair of Governors

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EXAMINATION ACHIEVEMENT

NEW ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS

Results at GCSE maintained the high standards of recent years. The average total point score, which is the measure of the quality of all results, was a further improvement on the record level set last year.

In 2014, the average total point score was 548. Nearly a quarter of all grades (24%) were A* and over half (51%) were A* or A. Over a third of all students gained 8 or more A* or A grades including English and Mathematics. The national performance measure is the percentage of pupils who gain 5 or more GCSE passes at grades C and above, including English and Mathematics; this year this was 95.5%.

At A Level, in terms of the points score per student, which is the statistical value of all qualifications, 2014 was another very strong year. Average points per student was 1017 against a national average of 800. The pass rate for all subjects was 98%. The average number of passes per student was 3.9 and 30% of results were at the top grades of A*/A.

Continuing the trend of recent years, the most popular city destination for University was Liverpool with 32 students, followed by Leeds and Sheffield with 9 students and Birmingham and Lancaster each with 4 students. In total 36 Universities accepted new students from our school this Autumn. On the Apprenticeship side, we saw further interest in students taking this successful route into employment and in 2014, four leavers successfully gained high level apprenticeships.

Comparative school performance data is available at the Department for Education website at the following address: www.education.gov.uk

A number of new Achievement Awards were introduced at our Certificate Evening in December 2014.

‘The Anthony Cooper Award‘ was presented to the A Level Student who gained the highest standard of achievement, as measured by the total point score of A Level Grades gained. The new award is named after the former Headteacher of Wirral Grammar School for Boys, Mr Anthony Cooper.

‘The Brian Edmondson Award’ was presented to the GCSE Student who gained the highest standard of achievement, as measured by the total point score of GCSE grades gained. This new award is named after the former Chair of Governors, Mr Brian Edmondson.

The winners of the two new achievement awards were:

‘Anthony Cooper Award’ for top A Level achievement: Samuel Molyneux

‘Brian Edmondson Award’ for top GCSE achievement: George Watson

Other new Awards were:

‘The Victor Ludorum’ presented to the best sportsman. This was presented to Benjamin Brooks.

‘The Sandie Craze Award for Spoken French’ was presented to the best student in this area and this new Award was kindly provided by Mrs Sandra Craze who retired from her role as Teacher of Languages in July 2014. This award was presented to Oliver Wedgwood.

PARENT SURVEY 2013 -14

Surveys of parent opinion have long been established as one of our routine review procedures. We are now in the eighth year of carrying out surveys. In order to maximise the levels of survey returns, we issue parent questionnaires on the occasion of each of our year-specific parents’ evenings. A new development in 2013/2014 was to issue the survey forms to parents via ‘Parent Mail’ one week before the Parents’ Evening itself, thereby giving parents more time in which to consider their responses. Our policy is to have the questionnaires analysed within a week.

All parents receive feedback on the surveys via Parent Mail. Survey questions relate to key aspects of school life: quality of teaching, quality of support, behaviour, preparation for working

life, extra-curricular provision, quality of leadership and community perception. At the end of each school year the results of all seven year-specific parents’ evenings are aggregated and publicised on our school website in the ‘Parents’ area.

The results of our Parents’ surveys are very encouraging as they paint a very positive picture of parent perception. In 2013/2014:

• 98.7% felt that their son enjoys attending our school

• 99.3% felt that the quality of teaching is good

• 98% felt that the school is well respected in the community

• 98.9% were pleased with school safety

• 98% felt that the school is led and managed effectively

In recognising that no school is perfect, our aim is to directly address key areas of concern and we seek to achieve this through an ‘open door’ approach for feedback and views.

Some of the areas that have been improved, partly as an outcome of parent surveys are:

• A revision of school uniform resulting in changes made to reduce the cost to parents.

• A ‘Lost Property Service’ that has been in place for 3 years and has reduced the occasions where expensive items become permanently lost.

• Improvements to Parents’ Evenings.

• A review of our school meals provision

The table overleaf provides a summary of the total survey responses for all year groups (Years 7 to 13) in 2013-2014.

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% Strongly Agree

%Agree

%Disagree

%StronglyDisagree

%Unable to comment

My son enjoys attending this school 64.5 34.2 1.2 0 0

The school keeps my child safe 66.8 32.1 0.8 0.2 0

My school informs me about my child’s progress 61.4 37.6 0.4 0.6 0

My child is making enough progress at this school 55.2 42.0 2.7 0 0.2

The teaching is good at this school 56.4 42.9 0.2 0 0.4

The school helps me to support my child’s learning 49.2 47.9 1.9 0 1.0

The school helps my child to have a healthy lifestyle 45.7 49.0 3.5 0.5 1.2

The school makes sure that my child is well prepared for the future 49.9 38.2 2.0 0.3 9.6

The school meets my child’s particular needs 48.0 45.1 1.1 0.2 5.7

The school deals effectively with unacceptable behaviour 45.6 44.7 1.9 1.2 6.6

The school takes account of my suggestions and concerns 39.4 42.3 0.9 0.5 16.9

The school is led and managed effectively 60.9 37.1 0.3 0.7 1.1

There is wide range extracurricular opportunities 61.7 36.8 0.6 0 0.8

The school is well respected in the community 71.7 25.9 1.0 0 1.4

The school keep me informed of developments / events 70.6 28.9 0.2 0 0.3

Overall, I am happy with my child’s experience at this school 70.4 28.6 0.5 0.2 0.3

Measure

Percentage difference between all pupils and pupils who are eligible for

Pupil Premium Funding

2012 2013 20143 Year Gap

Trend

A* to C in English and Maths -12 +1 +1 Narrowed

English A* to C -6 +1 +2 Narrowed

Maths A* to C -6 0 +1 Narrowed

5 or more A* to G -1 0 0 Narrowed

5 or more A* to C including English and Maths -10 -8 -16 Wider

Achieving the ‘English Baccalaureate’ -18 -10 -7 Narrowed

English average point score -3.3 -3.9 0.2 Narrowed

Maths average point score -3.4 -1.1 -1.6 Narrowed

ANALYSIS OF PARENT SURVEY RESPONSES FOR ALL YEARS (2013-14)

AUDIT OUTCOME

‘Pupil Premium’ is funding that is received by schools with a specific focus on increasing social mobility, enabling more pupils to secure places at top universities and reducing the attainment gap. Funding is based on the number of pupils who have qualified for free school meals at any time over the previous six years. The allocations from September 2011 have changed as follows:

2011 to 2012 £20,790.002012 to 2013 £43,653.002013 to 2014 £53,000.002014 to 2015 £51,425.00

In 2013-2014, the funding was divided up into the following categories:

• Academic Support – Saturday School, targeted 1:1 tuition, Peer Mentoring, enabling timetable to be modified to suit individual.

• Emotional Support – Psychotherapy, Bereavement Counselling.

• Financial Support – extra-curricular financial support, music tuition, residential trips.

• School Focused Targeted Improvement Areas – Teacher Training in targeting support effectively, improving lesson quality, Literacy and Numeracy.

• IT Equipment – purchase of IT equipment in Art to enable pupils to extend the use of graphics in their portfolios.

In 2014 there were 15 boys who were eligible for pupil premium, on the ‘Ever 6’ basis. Previously, in 2013, there were 8 pupils.

The picture over the last three years is between pupil premium qualifying pupils and all other to have narrowed across most of the performance areas.

In April 2014, our School Auditors, BDO, undertook an audit of Pupil Premium spending. The work was undertaken as the request of the school’s Governing Body Audit Committee to help support their assessment of internal control. The report concluded:

“The Academy has tight controls over pupil premium income and expenditure. The financial records and expenditure trail are excellent and can easily be followed. Academic progress of pupil premium students is monitored and checked on a regular basis and the

PUPIL PREMIUM CLOSING ACHIEVEMENT GAPS

performance gap between free school meal and non free school meal pupils has been seen to reduce since pupil premium funding was granted. Our detailed testing did not highlight any areas of concern”.

“Students’ personal development is outstanding. Students have a passion for learning”

Ofsted

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The following is a summary of the main events and achievements of 2013/2014:

• We took part in the Heswall Arts’ Festival with a mixture of contributions: art displays, poetry readings and musical performances.

• An English Department visit took a group of Year 9 and 10 pupils to London to see Macbeth performed in the Globe Theatre. While in London for the two days boys also visited the London Museum of Science and the Harry Potter Studios.

• Our Parents’ Association raised over £5,000 with the Christmas Fair.

• Our Year 9 Enterprise Team achieved second place in the ‘Enterprise Challenge’ Competition held at Aintree Racecourse.

• As part of our commitment to health and safety, two defibrillators were purchased for school - a ‘first’ for Wirral Schools.

• The Art Department set up an ‘Art Exchange’ with Tanabe Junior High School in Japan. This involved exchanging samples of art work for display in each other’s schools.

• At the very end of the Summer Term in 2013, the Music Society Concert to Malta took place.

• Lower Sixth Geologists headed to Pembrokeshire for a residential visit and in the Autumn Term, Year 11 Geologists visited Traeth Bychan Beach on Anglesey for a day visit.

• In October 2013, two of our Sixth Form students were invited to take part and speak at the Wirral Youth Parliament at Wallasey Town Hall.

• In November 2013, Lower Sixth students took part in a Mock Council of the European Union. Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg welcomed the students who attended together with students from a total of 30 schools across the country.

• In November 2013 we hosted the Pupil Panel Anti-Bullying Conference where representatives from all secondary schools attended.

• Our Learning Resource Centre introduced a new service which allows pupils to loan books on line through VLEbooks.com. Also in our LRC, the Wirral Grammar Book Awards took place in December.

• Just over 60 Year 10 pupils took part in the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Practice expedition to Llyn Brenig in North Wales.

• At the end of the Summer Term 2013, 70 Year 10 pupils went on a Languages visit to Barcelona.

• Our Student Peer Support Group was awarded the ‘Princess Diana Award’ for ‘Champion Volunteer’.

• At the end of the Summer Term 2013, 70 Year 10 pupils went on a Languages visit to Barcelona.

• In partnership with the Girls’ School, Year 12 Geography students went on an extended residential field walk weekend to the Lake District.

• Our Annual Remembrance Service took place in November and this was attended by Mr Ian Meadows OBE, DL, High Sheriff of Merseyside.

• In February, Sixth Form Chemists took part in the Chemistry Olympiad. Jawad Qureshi gained a silver award and Jack Abel and Joe Crawford gained Bronze.

• Our School Production of ‘West Side Story’ took place prior to Easter – a superb performance with amazing acting and singing.

• On the School charity front, £11,200 was raised for our combined causes – Wirral Autistic Society and the IWELE Project and all this money was raised by the pupils themselves.

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• Year 10 Geographers went on a Glaciation fieldwork visit to the Nant Ffrancon Valley in North Wales.

• Our Year 7 ‘Junior Chef’ winners were Ben Brady-Jones and Awynash Ganapathy.

• Our Annual Music Competition attracted 80 boys this year and the finals took place in March. Winners were: David Noble (Junior), Sam Fisher (Intermediate), Ben Savage (Senior).

• The English Department took a group of Year 8 boys to see an adaptation of Michael Morpurgo’s novel, ‘Private Peaceful’.

• In December, Politics students visited the Houses of Parliament and met up with our local MP, Alison McGovern.

• A joint Languages trip took place with the Girls’ School with 30 students visiting Granada in Spain.

• In February an Art Trip took place to Paris. The 5 day visit took in all of the main museums and cultural sites.

• Over 50 representatives from a wide range of industries and services attended our Careers’ Convention in February.

• At the end of the Spring Term, a group of 14 Year 12 students went on a two day visit to Cambridge University.

• A party of 65 pupils headed to the Alps at Easter for a ski tip to Austria.

• During February half term, 5 pupils travelled 6,165 miles to Cape Town, South Africa on a student exchange as part of the ‘IWELE Schools Partnership Project’.

• Our First XV Rugby Team managed to get right through to the semi-final stage of the NatWest Vase Competition held at the Allianz Park Stadium, North London. We lost against Exeter College but an amazing achievement nevertheless.

• A group of Sixth Form students, divided into two teams, took part in the ‘Business and Accounting Skills Education’ Competition finals in Chester - the two teams achieved first place and second place.

• One of our pupils took part in the BBC Radio 2 Short Story Competition – Owen Storer won the Bronze Award for his story ‘Albert Onions and Me’.

• During the year we had three excellent Music Concerts and two Chamber Concerts.

• House Captain Elections took place in May and involved all pupils. The elected House Captains are: Jack Kelly(Hodgson), Udit Shankar (Lever), Jack Hulme (Dodds) and Daniel Dorda (Barber).

• ‘Postcards from the Front’ was a WW1 exhibition that was on display at Christchurch in Higher Bebington.

• Year 8 Geographers visited the White Scar Caves near Ingleton in April.

• Our Annual GCSE and A Level Art Exhibition took place on 30th June 2014.

• The History Department trip was to Belgium and the Netherlands with 74 boys from Years 9 and 10 taking part.

• This year’s Drama Cup Winner was Jack Fletcher following his performance in ‘West Side Story’.

• The Geography Department organised a ‘Rainforest Roadshow’ for all pupils in Year 9.

‘IN THE NEWS’ 2013 - 2014


In February 2014 our Student Peer Support Group were awarded the Princess Diana Award for ‘Champion Volunteer’. This is presented for young people who give their time to improve the lives of others. The students involved were: Tom Arthur, Daniel Crangle, Nick Saunders, George Cotcher Riley, Alex Farrell, Ben Morris, James Evans, Conor Ritchie, Andrew McLannahan and Jamie Duff.

Members of the Peer Support Group attended Barclays Headquarters in Canary Wharf, London for the Award Ceremony. All received a certificate signed by the Prime Minister, Mr David Cameron, together with a plaque which is on display in the School Trophy Cabinet. The Award was thoroughly deserved and the Peer Support Group undertake guidance and support from Mrs Bradshaw who is the School’s Learning Mentor to provide peer guidance and assistance to pupils in the lower school.

THE PRINCESS DIANA AWARD

THE WORK OF OUR PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION

Each year, all pupils have their say over the choice of focus for charity fundraising. A number of charity proposals are made and then all boys have the opportunity to vote on their preferred choice. Over the years we have had considerable success in raising large sums of money for the nominated charity. The four Houses play a key role in the organisation of fundraising activities and these include a sponsored walk, various competitions and performances including Charity Film Screening, Staff Karaoke, musical events and quizzes. A number of non-uniform events are also planned during the year and each year, our Year 7 pupils take part in a £1 Challenge where they get involved in mini-enterprise events to raise funds for charity.

Our charity focus for 2013-2014 was Alder Hey Children’s Charity. During an assembly in November, we were delighted to be able to present a cheque to Mrs Irene Axon from Alder Hey for the sum of £10,049. We were told that these funds would pay for one of the new rooms at the hospital that make provision for parents to accompany their children overnight.

PUPILS’ FUNDRAISING SUCCESS - £10,049 FOR ALDER HEY HOSPITAL

Effective teaching produces good results by promoting positive learning. ‘Teaching’ in its broadest sense extends beyond the classroom and includes all of the extra support and guidance that the school provides. Examples include: lunchtime and after school support sessions, peer mentoring, the availability of ‘Saturday School’.

The standards of classroom teaching are monitored by senior staff who visit lessons

to observe what is happening. Mr Hazeldine focuses on a subject each week and other senior staff focus on particular Key Stages (Key Stages 3 – Years 7 and 8, Key Stage 4 – Years 9 -11, Sixth Form). For each of the last three years we have employed the services of an external consultant who is a retired Her Majesty’s Inspector and current Ofsted Inspector to check on the accuracy of the observations of senior staff. His observation in 2013-2014 was “The joint observations confirmed that senior leaders

judge lessons accurately. There is no sign of over-grading”.

The Teaching Standards are high at Wirral Grammar School and through targeted professional development and the sharing of professional practice, continue to improve. In 2013-2014, 64 lessons were formally observed. 95.7% were found to be ‘good’ or ‘outstanding’ and the remainder were ‘satisfactory with some good elements’.

HIGH STANDARDS OF TEACHING AND LEARNING

Our own parent surveys for 2013-2014 showed a high level of parent satisfaction with standards of teaching. 99.3% of parents felt that the quality of teaching is good.

Ofsted’s own website which is called ‘Parent View’ also shows a very positive picture of parent opinion, where the most recent data shows that 100% of respondents feel that their child is taught well.

During 2013/2014 our Parents’ Association had a very successful fundraising year. At the heart of the PA’s approach is the ‘A B C’ principle – that funds raised should be directed towards items that are ‘Above and beyond’ the school’s purchasing means as provided by direct Government funding; that items purchased should be for the ‘Benefit’ of most, if not all pupils and the that purchases should be ‘Clearly visible’. In 2012/2013 the focus had been on the purchase of a new school minibus and this was successfully achieved. Given our commitment to acquiring a flood-lit astro-turf pitch on the school site, the PA elected to allocate all funds raised towards supporting this project during 2013/2014. Fundraising projects successfully raised £15,000 towards our Hockey Pitch Project and will go towards our applications for ‘match funded’ grants to organisations like England Hockey and Sport England.

Our Parents’ Association Committee has once again done us proud and we are very fortunate to have a group of such dedicated parents. Particular thanks go to our PA Chair in 2013/2014 who was Mr David Elliott, for all his work in leading our steadfast PA Team.

THE VIEWS OF PARENTS

“Excellent care, guidance and support ensure that students achieve well”

Ofsted


STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES(Including Income and Expenditure Account and Statement of Total Recognised Gains and Losses)

FOR THE PERIOD ENDED 31 AUGUST 2014

All of the academy’s activities derive from continuing operations during the above two financial periods.A Statement of Total Recognised Gains and Losses is not required as all gains and losses are included in the Statement of Financial Activities.Extracted from Audited Financial Statements. A full set is available at Companies House or by writing to Mr E J Riley, Director of Finance & Resources at the school. Wirral Grammar School for Boys. A Company limited by guarantee. Registered No: 07734231.

Note Unrestricted Funds

Restricted General Funds

Restricted Fixed Asset Funds

Total 2014

Total 2013

£’000 £’000 £’000 £’000 £’000Incoming ResourcesIncoming resources from generated funds: Voluntary income - transfer from Local 2 - - - - - Authority on conversion Other voluntary income 2 12 12 - 24 26 Activities for generating funds 41 100 - 141 75 Investment income 4 1 1 1Charitable activities:Funding for the Academy Trust’s educational operations 5 10 5,518 21 5,549 5917

Total Incoming Resources 64 5,630 21 5,715 6,019

Resources ExpendedCost of generating funds:Charitable activities: Academy’ Trust educational operations 6 - 5,583 199 5,782 5,951 Governance costs 8 - 13 - 13 13

Total Resources Expended - 5,596 199 5,795 5,964

Net income/(outgoing) resources before transfers 64 34 (178) (80) 55Gross transfers between funds 15 - (99) 99 - -

Net income/(expenditure) for the year 64 (65) (79) (80) 55Other recognised gains and lossesActuarial (losses)/gains on defined benefit pension schemes 23 - (80) - (80) 71

Net movement in funds 64 (145) (79) (160) 126Reconciliation of fundsTotal funds brought forward at 1 September 2013 317 (814) 10,853 10,356 10230

Total funds carried forward at 31 August 2013 381 (959) 10,774 10,196 10,356

ANNUAL FINANCIAL STATEMENT

BALANCE SHEET

AS AT 31 AUGUST 2014

The financial statements were approved by the Governors, and authorised for issue, on 11th December 2014 and are signed on their behalf by Mrs S Clarke MBE, Chairman. Wirral Grammar School for Boys. A Company limited by guarantee. Registered No: 07734231.

Note 2014 2014 2013 2013

£’000 £’000 £’000 £’000Fixed AssetsTangible assets 12 10,774 10,853

Current AssetsStock 13 34Debtors 14 122 95Cash at bank and in hand 706 669

862 764

LiabilitiesCreditors: amounts falling due within one year 15 (386) (320)

Net Current Assets 476 444

Total Assets Less Current Liabilities 11,250 11,297Pension Scheme Liability 24 (1,054) (941)

Net Assets Including Pension Liability 10,196 10,356

Funds of the Academy TrustRestricted Income Funds:Fixed asset fund 16 10,774 10,853General fund 16 95 127Pension reserve 16 (1,054) (941)

Total Restricted Funds 9,815 10,039Unrestricted Income Funds

General fund 16 381 317

Total Unrestricted Funds 381 317

Total Funds 10,196 10,356


GOVERNORS AND ACCOUNTABILITYANNUAL FINANCIAL STATEMENT

CASH FLOW STATEMENT

FOR THE PERIOD ENDED 31 AUGUST 2014

RECONCILIATION OF NET CASH FLOW TO MOVEMENT IN NET FUNDS

A key role for School Governors is holding the school to account for standards of provision and outcomes. Much of this work takes place between Governors and senior staff through one-to-one focus meetings throughout the year. A ‘Link Committee Programme’ was started in 2008 whereby Governors with particular interests and/or areas of expertise work with individual members of the School Leadership Team. The outcomes of Link meetings are reported at the full Governing Body Meeting which takes place once a term. In 2013/2014, the Governing Body Link Committee structure was as follows:-

Accountability Link Governor/s Leadership Team

Self Evaluation & School Planning Dr G PatelProfessor R Williams

Mr D Hazeldine (Headteacher)

Pupil progress Data/Curriculum Dr G PatelProfessor R Williams

Dr J Randell (Deputy Headteacher)

School Finance & Resources Mrs S Clarke MBEMr B EdmondsonMr D ElliottMr J WilsonMr W Davies

Mr D Hazeldine (Headteacher)Mr E Riley (Director of Finance & Resources)

Sixth Form Dr A Pullin Mr M G Askew (Deputy Headteacher: Head of Sixth Form)

Business, Industry Careers Professor R WilliamsMrs C McLachlan

Mr M G Askew (Deputy Headteacher: Head of Sixth Form)

Pupil Welfare Guidance & Support

Looked After Children

Mrs A Whitehead

Mrs S Clarke MBEMrs A Whitehead

Mrs O Kahn (Deputy Headteacher)

IT Mr A Lawrence Mr J Woodham (IT Strategy Leader)

Specialist School & Community Mr W Davies Mr P Harrison (Deputy Headteacher)

CPD (Continuing Professional Development) & Teaching and Learning

Mrs S Clarke MBEMrs C McLachlan

Mr A White (Deputy Headteacher)

Safeguarding Mr J WilsonMrs A Whitehead

Mr P Harrison (Deputy Headteacher)

Finance & Resources re Risk Assessment & Business Mr D ElliottMr W DaviesDr G Patel

Mr E Riley (Director of Finance & Resources)

Health & Safety Mr P Ronayne Mr E Riley (Director of Finance & Resources

Pupil Premium Mrs S Clarke MBEProfessor R Williams

Mr E Riley (Director of Finance & Resources)Mrs O Kahn (Deputy Headteacher)

Behaviour for Learning Mr A Lawrence Mr K Taws (Senior Deputy Headteacher)

Pay & Performance Management Mrs S Clarke MBEMr W DaviesAppeals Committee: Mr J WilsonMr B Edmondson

Mr A White (Deputy Headteacher)

Note 2014 2013

£’000 £’000

Net cash inflow from operating activities 20 157 (38)

Capital expenditure 21 (120) (23)

(Decrease)/Increase in cash in the year 37 (61)

2014 2013£’000 £’000

Net funds at 1 September 2013 669 730

Net funds at 31 August 2014 706 669


“From the moment we arrived, we knew this school was the right place for our son to develop both academically and otherwise”

Parent

Learning is not just for pupils, it is for teachers too! Every term we produce our own journal of advice, guidance and teacher experiences that are shared with all staff. Mr Andrew White, Deputy Headteacher responsible for Teaching and Learning said, “The continuous development of effective teaching is all about constantly developing our own professional practice as teachers and it is important to set quality time aside for this”. Recent topics that have been shared through ‘Thinking and Learning’ include:

• Marking work for high impact

• Dedicated Improvement and Reflection Time for pupils

• Using ‘Commemoration’ as a cross-curricular theme

• Addressing ‘Inter Subject Variations’ through pupil feedback

• Developing independent research skills for pupils

• Challenging the most able

• Effective tutoring in mixed age forms

• Asking the right questions

Our ‘Thinking and Learning’ journal can be found on our school website in the ‘General’ information area under ‘Research and Development’.

‘THINKING AND LEARNING’ FOR STAFF

“The curriculum is outstanding because managers keep it under review”

Ofsted

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Partnerships with our community continued to flourish during 2013-2014. No two years are ever the same as we always seek to work with our community in a variety of ways. Here are a few of the projects that took place in 2013-2014:

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS

Heswall Arts Festival: We took part for the 2nd year in succession with music, both on the street and inside various venues. The Samba band opened the festival. Our Art display again took place at ‘Kitchen Design’ on Telegraph road and there were poetry and drama recitals.

Alumni: 2014 saw the launch of our Alumni group at Wirral Grammar Boys, utilising the school website to link our former students across the globe. The site now has 150 members and is growing all the time.

World War 1: The centenary of the start of WW1 saw a number of event take place at the school and within the local community. During the summer an interactive visual art and music

memorial, entitled Postcards from the Front took place at Christchurch in Bebington. A number of events involving the school community will take place during the autumn of 2014 to commemorate this important anniversary.

BUSINESS PARTNERSHIPS

Business Partnerships. 2014 saw one of our key partners, Wirral Chamber of Commerce expand and reach out to a wider client base at home and abroad. This has enabled the school to have links with a wider business community and consult and utilise their expertise. In the summer term a team of 6 students qualified for the Institute of Chartered Accountant’s BASE national final at Birmingham. The team presented a business plan to a panel of internationally renowned judges winning one of the top awards for the ‘Most Ethical Considerations’

2014 has seen our partnership with Mersey STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) develop further with Year 10 students participating in STEM’s ‘Robotic Challenges’

The year also saw closer links with Bebington Rotary Club which included a successful photographic competition and student entries into their national Music and Young Citizen Competitions.

POLITICS

Visits by politicians have continued with debates and participation events. 2014 saw further visits to Parliament and in the run-up to the General Election 2015 several events are planned including visits to party conferences, another ‘Question Time’ event and a ‘mock election’ with candidates representing the main political parties.

SCHOOL PARTNERSHIPS

Strong links have been maintained with local primary schools with 6th Form and Year 10 work experience placements. Science Clubs and Primary Enterprise days continue to mould excellent partnership opportunities within the community and consideration for further programmes is constantly reviewed

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS 2013

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The following provides an overview of our current school development priorities:

KEY SCHOOL DEVELOPMENTS

KEY DEVELOPMENTS

2014-2015

Overview

ACHIEVEMENT• Maintain focus on closing attainment gaps, notably

for SEN/FSM. While groups are small there are still differences within school.

• To target relative underperformance in subjects at both GCSE and A Level.

• Embedding of SISRA and monitoring data for tracking, monitoring and intervention.

• Implementation of ‘live’ assessment monitoring to improve on half-termly tracking.

• To improve provision so as to impact on outcomes with the introduction of early GCSE options (3 year KS4).

• Develop new approaches to assessment from September 2014.

LEADERSHIP• To maintain consistency regarding a culture of

high expectations.

• Introduction of a ‘Heads of Department Strategy Group’ to build capacity and lead on changes to assessment and curriculum.

• Comprehensive review of changes to Tutoring that were implemented in 2013/14 to evidence positive impact.

• To target pockets of under achievement through targeted support.

• To provide further scope for sharing best classroom practice.

• To keep ahead of curriculum change and keep parents and pupils fully aware of future direction.

BEHAVIOUR & SAFETY• To refine SLEUTH behaviour tracking and address

pockets of concern to be addressed through more targeted learning walks.

• Comprehensive review of changes to Tutoring that were implemented in 2013/14 to assess impact.

• To address those pockets of concern noted through the student Anti-Bullying Committee with improved channels for anonymous communication.

• Vigilance and intervention over cyber issues that emerge with changes in technology.

• To maximise positive behaviour for learning through culture of high expectations

TEACHING & LEARNING• Maintain focus on high standards of teaching and

evidence this through lesson observation analysis.

• Sustain positive behaviour for learning and evidence this through pupil ISV group and lesson observations.

• To ensure consistency in the application of effective feedback through assessment so that progress for all is optimised.

• Proactively address curriculum changes (GCSE/A Level) so as to provide clarity and security for boys and parents.

SIXTH FORM• To address specific concerns where Value

Added is relatively lower (as noted in ALIS data) and sustain impact made as noted in 2014 AS results.

• To ensure that FSM students achieve on a par with all other students so that gaps are removed.

• To sustain support for middle/lower ability students through the CMI course and close tracking.

• Targeted support for specific subjects where performance is within acceptable statistical boundaries but below that of other subjects.

• To review our curriculum provision in the ace of significant national changes.

• To ensure that our guided learning hours match the requirement for funding.

SPIRITUAL, MORAL & CULTURAL• To further develop opportunities for local community

involvement.

• To formalise a volunteering programme for Sixth Form Students.

• To provide target support in identified areas, notably internet safety.

• To amend our PHSE Programme in the light of student feedback.

• To further develop PSHE delivery in the Sixth Form.

“Students’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development is a substantial strength at the school and contributes strongly to its distinctive ethos.”

Ofsted

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RUGBY

We enjoyed both regional and national recognition with The First XV in the Semi Finals of the National NatWest Vase at Allianz Park and also Cheshire Cup Winners. The Sevens qualified to the Cheshire semi-finals and Colts were Cheshire Sevens semi-finalists. Junior Bantams were runner up in both the Cheshire Cup and Birkenhead School Sevens.

1ST XV National NatWest Vase Semi Finalists (Allianz Park) Cheshire Cup Winners Cheshire Sevens Semi Finalists

Colts (U15s) Cheshire Sevens Runners Up Junior Bantams (U13s) Cheshire Cup Runners Up Birkenhead School Sevens Runners Up

Rugby World Magazine All Star U18 Team of the Term awarded to Tom Parry Ben Brooks, Jack Dixon, Tom Parry played for Cheshire U18, Matthew Palphreyman played for Cheshire U17. Both Matt Dalton, Scott Southwell were selected for North of England U15 Development Group and Matt Dalton, Ben Elliott, Tom James, Chris Murphy, Rob Murphy, Scott Southwell, Will Titherington were all selected for Cheshire U15 Group

HOCKEY

The Under 18s were North of England Indoor Hockey Finalists.Andrew Heath was selected to play for Under 18 JRPC North West.

CROSS COUNTRY

We saw success in both the Merseyside U18 and U16 divisions.Kieran Morgan won the English Cross Country Merseyside U18s and Alex McBain the Northern Schools’ Cross Country Merseyside U16s.

BASKETBALL

U14s were Wirral Schools’ Championship Runners Up.

HANDBALL

Our U15s were Cheshire/Merseyside area winners in the North Regional Finals.

Jordan Price was selected to play for England.

ATHLETICS

Both the Junior and Intermediates were North West ‘A’ Finalists in the National Track and Field Cup.

SWIMMING

Hayden Ward was nationally ranked at 50m breast stroke.

Jack Boniface was Regional Champion in 8 events and James Pettener was nationally ranked in 5 events

CRICKET

Louis Botes was selected to play for Cheshire U13.

CLIMBING

Elliot Verry was the North West U13 Climbing Champion and also took part in the European Championships in Austria in June.

At Wirral Grammar School we have again been competing at both regional and national levels. Our success has continued through into the current academic year. The school has a long history of placing a strong emphasis on competitive sport and we are proud of our lasting commitment to the place of physical education in our school curriculum. The scope and quality of all these sporting achievements are quite exceptional by school standards. Last year’s Olympic mission of “inspiring a generation” is certainly alive and well here! The following is a list of some of our sporting achievements in 2013/2014:

SPORTING ACHIEVEMENTS 2013/2014

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“The school production was fantastic! From the orchestra to the uber polished performances from pupils –amazing! The standard of performances made it all too easy to forget we were watching children”

Parent

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Musical and drama performances have again been highlights of the school year with three Music Society concerts with 156 boys taking part, performing 17 ensembles and two chamber concerts with 50 boys taking part. 291 boys have received music lessons this year and 97 boys have started music lessons for the first time. 160 boys have taken part in ensembles. Congratulations to the 58 boys who have taken music exams and the 74 boys who chose to

enter this year’s music competition. This year’s winners were: David Noble (clarinet) in the Junior Section, Sam Fisher (piano) in the Intermediate section and Ben Savage (trumpet) in the senior section. We have enjoyed performances outside school in events such as the Heswall Arts Festival, Battle of the Bands, the annual Carol Service, a Masterclass at Hope University, WW1 Music and Arts Festival, performance at Linghams Book Shop and undertaken 5 primary school visits.

Our joint production with the Girls’ School this year was ‘West Side Story’. Superb acting and singing performances on stage were complemented by a talented student team working back stage and on sound and lighting. This year’s Drama Cup winner was Jack Fletcher. Plans are now underway for next year’s production, ‘Evita’.

MUSIC AND PERFORMANCE


SELF-REVIEWOne of our approaches to monitoring our performance against Ofsted standards is to take the key comments that were made in our 2009 inspection report and using all available information, reflect on our current position. This is summarised as follows:

Comments Made By Ofsted in 2009 Current Position

“Parents are overwhelmingly positive about the school and provide many comments on how well the school has prepared their child to succeed and flourish.”

Parent Surveys are conducted every year. In 2013/2014 99% of parents agreed that they were happy with their child’s experience and 97.7% felt that the school effectively prepared pupils for the future. Ofsted’s ‘Parent View’ shows that 100% of parents feel that their son is making good progress.

“Students are happy, reach high standards and make good progress.” Pupil surveys show that they are happy at school (92%) and this is supported by the views of parents (97.7%). Students achieve high standards as shown by national comparative data. Attendance is very high and increases year on year (3.2% absence in 2014). Core subject data shows that pupils make significantly good progress from their KS2 starting point.

“Spiritual, moral, social and cultural education is a substantial strength of the school and contributes to its distinctive ethos.”

This continues to be demonstrated through the breadth of curricular and extra-curricular opportunities and levels of pupil participation. 93.3% of pupils feel strongly that the school promotes respect for others. Achieving the ‘Princess Diana Award’ for Peer Support and the ‘International Schools’ Award’ provides indication of a very positive ethos.

“The focus on more systematic lesson observations, coupled with the encouragement to share good practice across the school is stimulating better teaching.”

From 2010 onwards, Annual Reports on Teaching Standards have been produced with comparative data that shows how the quality of teaching has changed. ‘Unsatisfactory’ teaching is very rare and ‘satisfactory’ teaching is rare. In 2013/2014, 95.2% of lessons observed were at least good and 37% were considered to be ‘outstanding’ (a 3% increase on 2012/13). Our parent surveys shows that 99.3% of parents feel that teaching is good and on ‘Parent View’ the figure is 100%. 93.7% of pupils feel that teaching is good.

“The extra-curricular activities are the jewel in the school’s crown; they contribute enormously to students’ personal development and well-being.”

Not only is there a high provision of extra-curricular activities, but there is also a very high participation. 100% of pupils engaged in some aspect of extra-curricular activity and 100% of pupils take part in at least 3 different activities. 98.3% of our parents feel that extra-curricular provision is very strong. 93% of pupils feel that the breadth of opportunities is very wide.

“The Business and Enterprise specialism flows through all aspects of school life.” Enterprise continues to be an important feature in the school and is

reflected and ‘measured’ in many areas. The fact that the boys raised £10,400 for their chosen choice of charity (Alder Hey) is an indication of enterprise commitment. In 2013 the school achieved the Warwick University Enterprise Award which provides an indication of the breadth of provision.

“By the end of Key Stage 4 students achieve well and reach exceptionally high standards.”

Ofsted


SELF-REVIEW


“Leadership and management have improved significantly since the last inspection. Assistant Heads have had a transformational impact.”

Leadership and Management continues to be highly regarded as the perception of both parents and pupils confirm. 96.2% of pupils feel that ‘Mr Hazeldine and the Senior Staff do a good job’. 98% of parents in our own surveys feel that the school is well led and on ‘Parent View’ 100% of parents feel that the school is well led, with 89% ‘agreeing strongly’.

“The Sixth Form curriculum is good overall... nonetheless, there is a lack of flexibility in the provision. Most students are restricted to only 3 taught subjects at AS.”

‘Lack of flexibility’ was addressed in 2010 when four AS/A2 options were introduced. High levels of attainment has been sustained and value added shows that in the vast majority of subjects, pupils achieve as expected. Our 3 year value added indicator shows that performance is ‘good’. Notable high performance in progress and performance is present by results in Sciences, English and EPQ.

“The proportion of students attaining A*or A grades at GCSE exams has risen steadily.”

High attainment at top A*/A grades has been sustained. In 2009 18% of all grades were A* and in 2014 this had risen to 24%. The percentage of pupils achieving 3 or more A*/A grades has risen gradually from 67% in 2009 to 71% in 2013.

“Students have a passion for learning; their behaviour is exemplary and their attendance already well above national averages continues to rise.”

Absence levels are very low and reduced below the very low levels of 2009. In 2014, 3.2% of lessons were missed. The most recent Ofsted ‘Data Dashboard’ shows that the school is in the highest quintile group compared to similar schools for attendance. Behaviour continues to be very positive with the vast majority displaying exemplary conduct. 100% of parents on ‘Parent View’ feel that the school makes sure that pupils are well behaved and 83% strongly agree with this.

“Students feel safe, secure and valued.” This continues to be the perception. On ‘Parent View’, 100% of parents say that their son feels safe (89% feel strongly about this). Our own surveys show that 98.9% of parents feel that their son feels safe and secure. 96.5% of pupils say that they feel safe when at school. In our view, 100% agreement can be the only acceptable level for pupils. In 2013, the figure was lower at 94.2%. The acquisition of the ‘Princess Diana Award’ indicates that the quality of peer support is very high and effective.

“Students are well integrated with consultative processes and contribute to decision making.”

The opportunities for pupil contributions has increased since 2009. As well as a ‘School Council’ there are now four ‘House Councils’ and each House Tutor Group has its own House Council Representative. The Peer Support Group, Head Boy Team and the Anti-Bullying Committee are pupil groups that represent students in particular areas. Students’ views are gathered systematically addressing variation between departments.


“Students grow into healthy, well rounded individuals. Their entrepreneurial flair, leadership qualities and team working skills bode well for their future.”

Extra-curricular provision is monitored annually and participation is very high. 91% of pupils feel that the school helps to prepare them well for their future. The sums raised by pupils for their annual choice of charity is staggeringly high – at least £10,000 in each of the last three years. The introduction of House Councils has continued to drive up team working skills across boys of all ages.

“The school has a highly accurate picture of the quality of lessons because of regular, detailed monitoring.”

Annual consultant reviews by an Ofsted Inspector confirm that senior staff are consistently accurate in their monitoring of lesson standards. Our most recent data on the quality of Teaching shows that the vast majority of lessons can be viewed as ‘good’ or ‘outstanding’.

“Classroom relationships are excellent because teachers have high expectations of what students can do.”

Lesson observations show that the quality relationships continue to be excellent and that expectations are high. This is shown in the increasing proportion of lessons that have been considered to be ‘outstanding’. Our ‘In-School Variation’ pupil panel shows that teachers have high expectations in all areas. 100% of parents feel that pupils are challenged through the level of homework provided.

“Teachers tend to lead the thinking that goes on in lessons too much.” Lesson observations show that the improvements made have become increasingly embedded. ‘Behaviour for Learning’ has improved markedly and the vast majority of lessons demonstrate effective strategies to promote pupil participation. The move to hour lessons from 30 and 40 minute lessons has provided more time for pupil led activities.

“The curriculum is outstanding because managers keep it under regular review and respond to students’ comments.”

Curriculum change has moved at a rapid pace since 2009 with changes to assessment, new GCSEs and new A Levels all at once. We have been proactive in developing the capacity to manage the change and we have consulted widely over our plan. Key Stage 3 is now two years (7 and 8) and Key Stage 4 is now three years (9, 10 and 11). Parents have been kept fully informed and our school website contains prominent information about curriculum changes.

“High levels of participation are testimony to the commitment of teachers and students.”

In 2009 we did not monitor levels of student participation and now we do. Provision has expanded, but more importantly, pupil participation has increased. Our recent survey showed that all boys participated in at least 3 extra-curricular areas in 2013-2014 and most participated in more. Over 100 boys now take part in the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award (a 50% increase over two years). Over 400 boys take part in competitive sports and over a third of pupils are learning to play musical instruments. In 2013, we were ranked in the top 30 schools for participation in competitive sport. ‘Parent View’ shows that 100% of parents would recommend our school to another parent.


SELF-REVIEW


“Excellent care, guidance and support ensures students achieve well. A strong pastoral system effectively tracks students personal development and academic progress.”

Perception of the quality of care, guidance and support continue to be very favourable indeed. ‘Parent View’ shows that 100% of parents feel that their son is well looked after, 100% feel that their progress is good and 100% feel that the school is well led. Our own surveys confirm these views and 93% feel that the school meets their son’s individual needs. The achievement gap between pupils who are eligible for pupil premium funding and those who are not is smaller than the national average in 2013; this has narrowed markedly.

“All necessary procedures for child protection and health and safety are firmly in place.”

This continues to be the case. A specialist company focuses on Health & Safety matters and this has added an additional layer to our quality assurance procedures.

“The process of self-evaluation is thorough and accurate and means the school accurately identifies where improvements need to be made.”

Our process of self-evaluation is closely linked to the most recent school inspection framework. Self-review takes place every year and we monitor a detailed Self-Evaluation Record which is updated in the Spring Term. In 2013, an Ofsted Consultant and former HMI confirmed that procedures were vigorous and effective. Our Development Plan is revised every Summer Term and areas for improvement are linked to our Self-Evaluation outcomes.

“The most impressive development since the last (2006) inspection is the improvement made on how data is used to monitor student performance.”

Our data systems have continued to develop since 2006 and this has improved the speed at which any concern can be identified and action taken. Progress Monitoring is analysed using SISRA software as this provides detailed group analyses.

“The proportion of students attaining the very highest grades has increased by 15 percentage points since the 2006 inspection.”

‘Challenge Targets’ were first introduced in 2007 and these resulted in a marked improvement in the proportion of pupils achieving top grades. The percentage of pupils achieving three or more A*/A grades has increased from 67% (2009 inspection) to 71% (2014 data). The percentage of pupils gaining the top grade of A* has risen from 18% to 23% over the same period. ‘Parent View’ confirms that 100% of parents feel that their son is making good progress with 83% ‘strongly agreeing’. In our own parent surveys, 97.2% feel that their son is making good progress. Our Raise On-line data confirms that in core subjects, pupils are making significantly positive progress from their Key Stage 2 starting point.

“Governors are regularly involved in school life which helps them speak authoritatively when holding senior managers to account.”

Governor involvement has moved on significantly since these comments were made in 2009. A structure of Link Committee Meetings allows Governors to probe into specific issues with senior staff and report this back to the full Governors every term. Financial Audits confirm that governance is very strong and effective.

“The extra-curricular activities are the jewel in the school’s crown; they contribute enormously to students’ personal development and well-being”

Ofsted

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“We are grateful to the school for providing so many opportunities for its students to broaden their horizons”

Year 11 Parent

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It is always pleasing to receive positive feedback. The following is a list of comments that we received during 2013-2014. Some of these comments relate to specific events, while others are more general.

“A fantastic opportunity to reflect on our son’s results and the day gave us the chance to chat, set targets and put strategies in place. Please repeat it!” Year 11 Parent on Mock Results Day

“Thank you so much for your support with my son. I can’t speak highly enough of the staff and school” Year 10 Parent

“ Our son found the transition from primary to Y7 difficult at first but it is a testament to your staff and the school’s procedures that he has now settled well and is enjoying school” New Year 7

Parent (transition from Year 6 Primary to Year 7)

“The Service of Remembrance was utterly memorable; beautifully and tastefully organised with the right balance of history, empathy and performance.” Guest at Annual Remembrance Service

“We would like to thank all those concerned for the teaching, discipline, self-encouragement and support our son has experienced during the seven years he has been privileged to attend Wirral Grammar School for Boys” Year 13 Parent

“My wife and I wanted to let you know how much we appreciate the support and kindness that has been given to our son. From the first introduction to your school, at the transition sessions in June and with the Peer Support Group, through to the daily support offered in Year 7.” Year 7 Parent

“When we attended the introductory evenings with the Peer Support Group we referred to them legends – how true that was and is; they are such wonderful ambassadors for the school” Year 7 Parent

“Thank you for your support. You have allowed my grandson to grow in confidence mentally and intellectually and musically at a most difficult time in his life.” Grandparent of Year 13 student

“Our son thoroughly enjoyed his time away on the History Trip to Belgium and The Netherlands. We were delighted to learn of the mix of cultural, historical and leisure time which was very balanced and we would like to congratulate staff for providing pupils with such a valuable experience.” Year 9 Parent

“We have just returned home after seeing the school’s production of ‘West Side Story’. It was a triumph. We enjoyed it enormously and it was thoroughly professional. Please pass on our sincere congratulations to everyone – they were marvellous” Member of the Public attending school

production

“My son and I watched tonight’s performance of ‘West Side Story’. It was fantastic from the orchestra to the uber polished performances from pupils! Amazing! The standard of both the acting and singing made it all too easy to forget we were watching children” Year 8 parent

“Ever since we came to open evening we have wanted to tell you how impressed we were, mainly of the excellent facilities and friendly staff, but what impressed us most was the friendliness of the Year 7 guides. So enthusiastic and helpful. They were excellent ambassadors for the school and impressed us all” prospective new parent

“I just wanted to thank you for the ‘welcome card’ my son received when he found out he gained a place at your school. It was a lovely touch and I have suggested to our primary Headteacher they introduce something similar for new children” New Year 7 parent

“We are grateful to the school for providing so many opportunities for its students to broaden their horizons” Year 9 Parent

“We would like to thank everyone for their contribution in nurturing our son during his time at school. From the moment we arrived we knew it was the right place for him to develop both academically and otherwise. Wirral Grammar has offered excellent teaching and high quality learning opportunities in a caring and supportive environment.” Year 13 Parent

“We have seen our son grow into an honest considerate and hardworking young man. He is determined to continue on in that direction in which you have pointed him. He is proud to be a student of Wirral Grammar.” Year 13 Parent

“I came to an open evening and was very impressed with the Headteacher’s talk, school ethos and school facilities. We were really impressed by the pupil who acted as our tour guide – he answered many of our questions and gave an excellent tour of the school. We really enjoyed ourselves and our son is even more determined to gain a place” prospective new parent

POSITIVE FEEDBACK


In 2014 we were successful in being re-accredited with the full ‘International School’ Award (ISA). This was first awarded to the school back in 2011. The purpose of the ISA is to give recognition for where there is a whole school approach to international teaching and learning. Although the award gives recognition for the school’s achievements and commitments, specifically, the ISA demonstrates how a school:

• Works with partners

• Promotes positive, global attitudes

• Works towards curricular objectives

• Encourages and appreciation of diversity

• Promotes global citizenship

Global Learning Programme - ‘Expert Centre’

In 2014 we were recognised as an ‘Expert Centre’ by the Global Learning Programme which is a Government funded scheme. The purpose of the programme is to create a national network of like- minded schools, committed to equipping their pupils to make a positive contribution to a globalised world. As part of the programme we are hosting events for local primary, secondary and special schools.

2013-2014 Overseas Visits

These are some of the overseas opportunities that were available:

• At Easter 2014, pupils in Year 9 and 10 went on a History visit to Belgium and Netherlands. Seventy four boys and seven staff took part and visited key historic sites include: a German and British WW1 Cemetery, Flanders Fields Museum, the Menin Gate, the transit camp for Auschwitz, Anne Frank’s Home in Amsterdam.

• In February 2014, a group of pupils went on an exchange to South Africa as part of the IWELE Project. They stayed at Cape Academy and visited Langa townships in Cape Town, Robben Island and two South African Schools.

• At February half term, 41 boys and 22 girls went skiing in Austria and enjoyed perfect ski conditions.

• Sixth Form Spanish students went on a trip to Granada, Spain in November 2014. This was a combined visit with the Girls’ School.

• At October half term, the first RE overseas trip took place to Rome where pupils visited all of the key religious and cultural sites: The Pantheon, Colosseum, Vatican, The Forum, Spanish Steps and Sistine Chapel.

• In February, a five day visit to Paris took place with a focus on Art and Culture. Pupils visited the main art galleries and tourist sites.

• In June, seventy boys went on a trip to Barcelona while at the same time, the Concert Tour organised by the Music Department took 70 boys to Malta.

• During 2013-2014 the IWELE Project was a key focus for the school. This project has developed links with South African and Namibian Schools and exchange visits have taken place between teachers and pupils.

• In June 2013, 80 eligible students embarked on our Rugby and Hockey Tour to Australia – a visit packed with tour fixtures and visits to key locations including the Gold Coast and Sydney Harbour.

OVERSEAS LINKS

“Wirral Grammar Boys is a forward looking school that provides outstanding education for its students”

Ofsted

WIRRAL GRAMMAR SCHOOLA Business and Enterprise School for Boys

Tel: 0151 644 0908 Fax: 0151 643 8317

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.wirralgrammarboys.com

Registered Office: Cross Lane Bebington Wirral CH63 3AQ

Company Number: 7734231 VAT Number: 119 0936 13

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GOVERNORS’ ANNUAL REVIEW 2013/14 · 8 EEW 20132014 ANNUAL REVIEW 2013/2014 9 % Strongly Agree %...

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