HUMANITYuuTHE QUALITY OF BEING KIND, THOUGHTFUL AND/OR SYMPATHETIC TOWARDS OTHERS tt

Ray Lau_postcard_two_Humanity.indd 1 29/12/2018 22:03

EQUALITYuuTHE QUALITY OF ACTING IN A WAY THAT HAS PROMOTED FAIR TREATMENT BETWEEN DIFFERENT GROUPS OF PEOPLE tt

Ray Lau_postcard_two_Equality.indd 1 29/12/2018 22:03

ASPIRATIONuuTHE QUALITY OF ACTING IN A WAY THAT SHOWS THE INDIVIDUAL AIMED TO AND HAS ACHIEVED SOMETHING WELL tt

Ray Lau_postcard_two_Aspiration.indd 1 29/12/2018 22:02

RESPECTuuTHE QUALITY OF ACTING TO PROMOTE POSITIVE ACTIONS AND FEELINGS TOWARDS OTHERS, SUPPORTING THEIR WISHES OR RIGHTS tt

Ray Lau_postcard_two_Respect.indd 1 29/12/2018 22:04

MessengerEDITION NO: 1

Spring Term 2019

Our purpose .........................P.2

Welcome ..............................P.3

Introducing our new Principal .....................P.4-5

Routines and Expectations ...P.5

Introducing our new KS4 Russell Group Pathway ........P.5

WSC raises money for Children in Need ..................P.6

Community Language 2018 Successes ....................P.6

Year 10 Business Enterprise Team Challenge ....................P.6

Year 12 Business Studies – Grade Booster Revision Workshop .............................P.7

Introducing our new Level 3 Technical Diploma in Childcare and Education ......P.8

WHAT’S in this edition?

VISION

OUR CORE VALUES‘Learning through Diversity’ Humanity Equality Aspiration Respect

MISSIONCORE

VALUES

BELIEFSAND

PRINCIPLES

OUR MISSION To equip the learners with the knowledge, skills, qualifi cations and behaviours that will prepare them for their next level of study or for the workplace.

OUR BELIEFS AND PRINCIPLES Aspirations: Raising our students’ aspirations to achieve and strive to be the best they can be. Basics: Focusing on securing and improving the basics of good behaviour, learning, manners and effort. Competencies: Developing our students’ Character through our Core values, Collaboration; Community and the Curriculum.

OUR PURPOSEOUR VISION To prepare learners for their future through ‘Unlocking talent, Creating future, Changing Lives’

Vison_mission_values_ visual_A4.indd 1 13/01/2019 18:22

Waverley Studio Messenger I Spring Term 2019 3

VISION

OUR CORE VALUES‘Learning through Diversity’ Humanity Equality Aspiration Respect

MISSIONCORE

VALUES

BELIEFSAND

PRINCIPLES

OUR MISSION To equip the learners with the knowledge, skills, qualifi cations and behaviours that will prepare them for their next level of study or for the workplace.

OUR BELIEFS AND PRINCIPLES Aspirations: Raising our students’ aspirations to achieve and strive to be the best they can be. Basics: Focusing on securing and improving the basics of good behaviour, learning, manners and effort. Competencies: Developing our students’ Character through our Core values, Collaboration; Community and the Curriculum.

OUR PURPOSEOUR VISION To prepare learners for their future through ‘Unlocking talent, Creating future, Changing Lives’

Vison_mission_values_ visual_A4.indd 1 13/01/2019 18:22

A warm welcome to Waverley Studio College and our first edition of Waverley Studio Messenger. The purpose of this newsletter is to inform our stakeholders – parents/

carers, students, visitors etc – and to celebrate our successes over the last half term. We will also highlight key themes, events and information for the coming term. We aim to release the Messenger in the first month of each term.

I am honoured to have the opportunity to lead this college into the next stage of development. Our specialisms in Health and Enterprise provide a targeted focus for our students. We are dedicated to ‘Learning through Diversity’ and our core values of Humanity, Equality, Aspiration and Respect form the foundations of what we strive for. No matter where they begin in life, we know that all young people have the potential to achieve. We recognise both the value of examination success as well as the importance of character-building and skills development.

I am determined and passionate in ensuring that our college and our team provide a safe environment and promote the highest quality of teaching, learning, support and experience. My commitment is to equip our students to become lifelong learners, succeeding with the highest levels of grades for their subjects. We will endeavour to provide opportunities through our curriculum to help develop students’ characters as well-rounded individuals, ready for society, whether this is working as an apprentice, in a job or in further academic study.

The positive partnerships between staff, students, parents and carers are essential. Firstly, the dedication and commitment of our staff are highly important. They are talented individuals

who work hard and tirelessly to ensure that our students have the best opportunities to succeed. We have high expectations for students and believe that their attendance, uniform, behaviour and attitudes to learning form the foundation for success. We focus on traditional values such as respect, discipline, and hard work.

Secondly, the students are important to us. We want to develop students to be proud ambassadors for the college. We aim for our students to become highly skilled, confident, and articulate young adults well-placed to succeed. Our young people will emerge as active members of the community.

Finally, we endeavor to work in partnership with young people’s parents, carers and their families. We are determined to see all our young people be the best they can be and recognise that support from parents and carers is needed. Therefore, the need for honest and trusting relationships is crucial in achieving the success that our students truly deserve. Support from parents and carers is vital, both for your child and for us.

This term is very important for Year 11, 12 and 13 students who are working hard towards completing coursework and preparing for exams next term. Year 10 will be settling in to our rules and routines and preparing for work experience in March. Our focus this first half term is pride. This is a warm, happy and family-friendly college, committed to study and personal development. On behalf of the staff, we look forward to working in partnership with our parents, carers, students and the community.

Mr Ray LauPrincipal

WelcomePictured right:

Mr Lau with students and Ms Arfan at Merton College,

University of Oxford

1. How will you bring about the ideas of core values into the heart of our college? I believe that the values of the organisation are very important, as they are what we strive for as a team. With regard to Humanity, Equality, Aspiration and Respect, I will certainly be promoting our values through our key principles (focusing on the basics), raising aspiration through our curriculum and our use of productive form time. In addition, I am excited to explore the potential of creating links to other professionals that would offer students’ learning opportunities whether this is through assemblies, trips and even chances to visit places. I fundamentally believe that all young people should have a high quality education and develop the basics of good learning, manners, behaviour, and positive habits and skills.

2. How can you relate to our student in terms of academic and personal struggles? I went through school and university without being diagnosed as being dyslexic, and struggled with reading and writing. Consequently, my A-Levels and undergraduate degree suffered. However, I have learnt that when you get knocked down, it is about how you bounce back. It’s about learning from the feedback and the mistakes you have made and doing something about it. So, I set goals and made sure that I had tasks to accomplish. Several years later, I have achieved four Masters degrees including my most proud moment of earning the Master of Science in Learning and Teaching at Kellogg College, University of Oxford.

In December, I went to a national conferenceand saw Musharaf Ashgar from the TV seriesEducating Yorkshire. He gave an inspirationalspeech about how one teacher especially helpedhim overcome his stammer when doing his GCSE English speaking examination. He reminded me of no matter what personal struggles you go through, teachers who believe you can do it will help you grow and succeed. I see so much potential within our students and will aim to provide a wide range of experiences, knowledge and skills to develop their academic side, their character, and the wider range of skills that make a well-rounded individual. Sometimes, it is about looking at the situation from a different perspective and viewing it from a solution-focussed viewpoint.

Introducing our new Principal,Mr LauInterviewed by Sebastian Bloomfield, Ines Sahib, Bethany Fieldhouse and Ameera Miller, Assistant editors (Year 11)

Musharaf Ashgar

4 Waverley Studio Messenger I Spring Term 2019

Waverley Studio Messenger I Spring Term 2019 5

3. How will your past Oxford experiences improve your leadership in this college? Studying at Oxford was fantastic! You learn to be disciplined, to work hard and to work independently. In fact, I only had three conversations with my supervisor then wrote the 20,000 words for my dissertation. At a classroom level, I have already utilised my research skills especially for helping and supporting the Year 13 students in Business, Health and Social Care, and Applied (Biomedical) science for their units of research. I continue to help copyedit and proofread personal statements for applying to university and for other courses. At a whole college level, I will be able to steer the college with the support of the trust and the highly skilled and dedicated team of staff in moving things forward. I will produce more concise documentation, reviewing and analysing information based on evidence, to make sharper and accurate judgements.

4. How can your other experiences enhance our overall college achievements? I have worked in schools for over twenty years, the last ten as a senior leader. I have a range of experiences, for example I’m an expert in Neuro Linguistic Programming, Personality Profiling, coaching, mentoring and professional development. In addition, I bring over ten years of being an Ofsted Inspector. I was also an assessor of the Advanced Skills Teacher status, awarding it to those teachers who were judged to be the best in the country. I continue to study and am now working towards my doctorate specialising in Black, Asian and Ethnic Minority leaders in secondary education. Having been a Future Leader, as part of the Ambition School Leadership organisation, I continue to contribute to them at regional and national levels.

5. What drives a person like you with such a diverse background to come to Waverley Studio College that continues to improve?I believe that education is for all. Improving the aspirations of our young people within our community

is vital. When you have learnt the skills of being determined, working hard and doing your best at everything you do, you will succeed. Sometimes, you may not receive rewards for what you do. However, it is the positive feelings inside you that count. With my knowledge, skills and extensive experience, I believe that I can help aid and inspire our community – staff, students and members of the local community. Our young people can achieve. My aim is that Waverley Studio College will unlock the talent of students and staff and create bright futures through broadening their horizons and, ultimately, changing the lives of our young people through achievement of qualifications and experiences that will shape them as well-rounded individuals.

n We are proud to launch our Russell Group Universities Pathway. The purpose of this route is

to prepare students with the knowledge, skills and experiences for entry to the best-known research-based UK universities. This pathway is designed as a bolt-on to the students’ education in lessons.

We have a mix of staff with high quality academic backgrounds who will lead students through

a series of projects and activities that will help develop their skills in critical thinking, leadership, research, studying and more. Some activities will lead to students gaining additional qualifications and external visits.

We believe in potential, passion, and hunger, not just talent. Students must have a growth mindset and not a fixed mindset. This pathway is open to all of our Year 10 and 11 students. As part of this we have a group of KS4 students who will be visiting

the University of Oxford. In November 2018, a small group attended a Masterclass on Study skills at the University of Birmingham. Applications for the pathway will be open from February 2019 and for the rest of this academic year.

INTRODUCING OUR NEW KS4 RUSSELL GROUP PATHWAYBy Mr O Qureshi Lead Teacher of Mathematics and Pathway Coordinator

Students at University of Birmingham Masterclass

6 Waverley Studio Messenger I Spring Term 2019

WSC RAISES MONEY FOR CHILDREN IN NEED

By Liz Barlow Learning Coach

n WSC got active and organised a range of activities for BBC Children in Need. Fundraising efforts raised £400 to support disadvantaged children and young people right here in the UK. This is the largest amount we have ever raised. The money will go to help transform the lives of disadvantaged children and young people across the UK. The day consisted of sponsored non-uniform, cake and food stalls, karaoke lunchtime, Soak the Teacher and many more activities. BBC Children in Need works throughout the year to ensure that every child in the UK has a safe, happy and secure childhood, and the chance to reach their full potential. It relies on the energy and commitment of thousands of fundraisers and supporters across the UK, who donate their time and money to put on events in support of the Appeal.

COMMUNITY LANGUAGE 2018 SUCCESSES

GCSE

90% GRADE A*-C OR

GRADES 9-4

71% GRADE A*/A OR

GRADES 9-7

31 GCSE

ENTRIES

52% GRADE A* OR

GRADE 9

7A* GRADES IN GCSE ITALIAN

3 STUDENTS IN

YEAR 10 GAINED HIGH GRADES

9 LANGUAGES STUDIED AT GCSE

(ARABIC; BENGALI; DUTCH; FRENCH; ITALIAN; PORTUGUESE; RUSSIAN;

SPANISH; URDU)

AS LEVEL

3 LANGUAGES STUDIED

AT AS LEVEL (FRENCH; ITALIAN; URDU)

60% GRADE B

40% GRADE A

1YEAR 11 STUDENT GAINED GRADE A

IN AS FRENCH

n Two Year 10 Business groups had the opportunity to participate in a team activity building the tallest towers using straws and spaghetti.

This was an exciting task for all and gave students the opportunity to appreciate the importance

of working well within a team to reach their overall goal. The outcome of the task allowed students to understand the impact team work has in the real world of work, how to meet tight deadlines, and how to be competitive and challenging.

YEAR 10 Business Enterprise Team Challenge

By Pam Gohir Lead Teacher for Enterprise

Waverley Studio Messenger I Spring Term 2019 7

n A dozen Year 12 students were given the opportunity to attend a Grade Booster Workshop in Vue Cinemas, Star City, focusing on exam techniques for Unit 3 Personal and Business Finance. Students were among 2000 students from other local schools working through interactive activities and a revision booklet. All found this event very useful and covered areas on Finance which they were not previously comfortable in. All were given additional online access to resources to further prepare them for the January examination.

YEAR 10 and 11 Students at Skills fair

By Donna Blythe Lead Teacher of English and Careers Co-ordinator

IMPROVING AWARENESS OF KNIFE CRIME AND SAFETY

By Ines Sahib Year 11 Student

n World Skills UK is a partnership between businesses, education and Governments that accelerates young people’s careers giving them the best start in work and life. On 15th November, Year 10 and 11 students visited the World Skills Live UK at the NEC in Birmingham. The event was attended by thousands of young people across the country and spanned several of the NEC halls. The event was split into zones that provided something for everyone. Learners were able to speak to employers, colleges, apprenticeship providers and take part in many activities.

Some of our year 11 girls made fantastic birdhouses on a carpentry stand. Year 10s were able to assess their skills as jockeys on an artificial horse at the Wolverhampton Race Course apprenticeship stand. Other learners attempted the army assault course while some pulled pints (of tea!) at the pub in the hospitality area. This was the first time as a college we attended the event, and we are proud to say that our learners behaved well, learnt from the event and were excellent representatives of Waverley Studio College. We look forward to visiting again next year!

n On Monday 3rd December 2018, we received the honoured presence of Alison Cope, mother of murdered grime artist Joshua Ribera (otherwise known as “Depzman”). She delivered an outstanding assembly with memorable life lessons and reminders. Her bravery is deeply admired by many of us, for it does take a tremendous amount of courage to stand up in front of a school and recount the tragic death of your own son. Alison Cope said many beautiful things, but firstly I think that the most beautiful thing was the fact that despite her own grief she manages to put others before her own needs. Instead of focusing on her own suffering, she is going around Birmingham working with the West Midlands Police to combat and eliminate knife crime. She is a woman of pure intelligence and value.

One of the many things she mentioned was the impact of your actions on others, but especially on your loved ones. We have the tendency to forget about how our actions tremendously impact people around us. However, what we forget is that although we may not directly be harming our beloved ones, our actions hurt them. Much more than we can even acknowledge. It works both ways, however, you could be doing something good and your family and friends will be greatly happy for you. Do something bad, and the reverse reaction will be conveyed by your family. Alison Cope’s visit to our school has impacted us in many ways. Receiving a victim’s mother has changed our perception of how we view knife crime. For me, anyway, I no longer view knives just as a destructive weapon, but I also view them as a symbol of a lack of awareness. As mentioned by Alison Cope, there isn’t a safe place to stab somebody, for every stab has an effect of its own. For instance, Joshua’s killer was not intent on killing him, he simply wanted to teach him a lesson. Yet, what was meant to be a simple little stab turned into a deadly stab, which caused Joshua Ribera’s demise. To live is such a precious and beautiful thing, yet we aren’t always able to acknowledge that until our actions have consequences that ultimately lead us to places I would never wish upon anyone, whether it be prison or death. Sometimes it is crucial for us to take a step back from whatever is going on in our lives and acknowledge our loved ones, for we never know when trauma will strike.

YEAR 12 Business Studies – Grade Booster Revision WorkshopBy Zara Carpenter Teacher of Business

“A huge thank you for your recent donation towards the Joshua Ribera Achievement Awards 2019 in memory of my son. Your generosity and

kindness is very much appreciated. Alison Cope”

OUR CALENDAR DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

FEBRUARYWed 06 PM: Year 13 Stanley Morgan LEAP Frog

Wed 06: Year 10 & 12 Parents Evening(3.45pm – 6.45pm)

Mon 11 – Fri 15: Year 11 Mock Examinations

Thu 14 PM: Year 11 ESOL BMAT Trip

Mon 25: INSET Training day

Wed 27 Feb: Deutsche Bank careers work

MARCHWed 06: BMAT Year 11 Interview practice

Thu 07: Year 10 The Globe Theatre trip

Mon 11 – Fri 22: Year 10 Work Experience

Mon 11: BMAT Year 11 Interview practice

Tue 12: Afternoon INSET Training (college finishes at 1pm)

Wed 13: Year 11 results and information late afternoon/early evening (3.00pm and 6.00pm)

Wed 13: Open Evening (4pm – 7pm)

Thu 14: Year 11 Big Bang Fair NEC for Year 11

Thu 21: Afternoon INSET Training (college finishes at 1pm)

APRILWed 03: Year 11 and 13 Parents Evening

(3.45pm – 6.45pm)

Fri 12: End of Spring Term

Mon 29: Summer term starts

MAYMon 13: GCSE, AS, A-Level, BTEC Level 2 and 3

Examinations begin (CIDA Unit 1, this week)

Wed 22: Open Afternoon (1pm-3pm)

Mon 27 – Fri 31: Half term

JUNEFri 19: Main Examination ends

Fri 26: Year 11 and 13 Celebration Event

JULYWed 10: Year 10 and 12 Parents Evening

(3.45pm – 6.45pm)

Thu 18: End of Summer term

Fri 19: INSET Training

Mon 22: INSET Training

Introducing our new Level 3 Technical Diploma in Childcare and Education

By Sabrina Ahmed Said Year 12 Childcare student

n I am currently on the Childcare level 3 course at Waverley Studio College. We are the first year (12) to practise these courses and I really find it amazing and interesting. The CACHE Level 3 Technical Diploma in Childcare and Education is a hard but awesome course and I would recommend it. Ms Chapman is one of the best teachers that I have ever had. Her explanations and teaching are amazing and I really started to understand the course better.

Since September we have started our course work. Our course includes placements of 750 hours in Childcare settings. In the first few months of the course, we also did some activities such us play dough, and filling in paper and colouring images related to the different festivals (Diwali, New Year). I have learned a lot in these few months. You need to study, be patient and hard working. I am proud of having chosen this course.

OUR SIXTH FORM

WAVERLEY STUDIO COLLEGE 470 Belchers Lane, Birmingham, B9 5SX

(0121) 566 6622 enquiry@waverleystudiocollege.co.uk

Principal: Mr Ray Lau, MA, MBA, MSc (Oxon), MTeach, PGCE

Executive Principal: Mr Kamal Hanif, OBE, MSc, BSc(hons), PGCE