FAQs

How is the school organised & how does the pastoral system work?

Rossett is an 11-18 comprehensive school which caters for all abilities, we have seven year groups. Each year group from 7-11 has an Achievement Co-ordinator and a Learning Mentor. The Learning Mentor has no teaching commitments and so is available all day to deal with any problems that may arise, contact parents when necessary and to mentor the students in their year group.

In the Sixth Form there is a Head of Sixth and an Assistant Head of Sixth. Years 7-11 are arranged in tutor groups of about 25-30 students. The Sixth Form has mixed tutor groups (from Year 12 and Year 13) of around 20. The most important first point of contact is the form tutor who meets with the tutor group each day and takes a particular interest in each child and gives advice about
all aspects of school life.

Within each subject area, arrangements are made to ensure that the needs of all students are met. This may be by differentiation within a group, setting or by providing additional staffing.

How do you promote good behaviour?

Visitors to Rossett frequently comment on the polite behaviour of our students and the pleasant atmosphere which exists. We work hard to promote this through our:

• Code of Conduct – a simple set of principles that we all work towards
• Well organised year systems
• Planned programme of personal social and citizenship education which develops an understanding of the needs and feelings of others
  • Range of curricular and extra curricular activities which promote a sense of belonging, team work
  and achievement.
• A team of Sixth Form Listeners who guide and support younger students and act as positive role models.

How will I know how well my child is doing?

We have a regular programme of subject based assessments as well as homework and class work activities. We ask parents to monitor homework by looking at the planner on a weekly basis and discussing any issues with your child or us as necessary. Grade reports are issued four times a year for all students and there is at least one parents’ evening which we hope you will attend. In Year 7 we have two parents’ evenings. However, if you have concerns you can request information about your child at any point during the year.

We are in the process of piloting an ‘on line’ reporting system which we hope will be ‘live’ by
September 2009.

How can I help my child to learn?

At Rossett we place considerable value on our ‘triangle of care’ recognising that close co-operation and good communication proves beneficial to students’ progress. Homework is set on a regular basis as it helps students not only to practice skills learned in class but also to explore ideas and areas of study of their own. We value the support parents give in providing, whenever possible, a quiet place for your child to study and by encouraging them to talk about their work and offering help and advice if needed.

What extra curricular activities are there?

The academic work of Rossett is extended through a wide range and variety of extra curricular activities.

Sport
We have extensive playing fields, a synthetic all weather pitch as well as floodlit tennis and netball facilities and a climbing wall. A huge range of sporting opportunities are available This is reflected in our prestigious Sportsmark Gold Award.

Outdoor Pursuits
Outdoor pursuits are a major element of our extra– curricular education programme. All year groups have
the opportunity to have a residential experience as well as expeditions with our qualified and professional staff.The Duke of Edinburgh Award extends students’ expertise and provides physical challenges.

Expressive and Performing Arts
Having gained Artsmark Gold, this is an important part in the life of Rossett which enriches and enhances the curriculum. Our orchestras, ensembles, rock, jazz and samba bands provide a rich and varied menu of
opportunities and entertainment for students and the community. All students are encouraged to perform
and take part in the many opportunities available. Music groups have performed with success in local
music festivals in Harrogate and abroad. Drama is encouraged not only within the taught curriculum, but also through small group workshops, visits to theatres and the school’s own productions. We have our own purpose built Drama facilities.

Are there any trips or foreign exchanges?
At Rossett we place great emphasis on links with other countries, supporting language learning as well as
enabling students to learn about life and opportunities in other countries. Every year there is a residential to Bewerley Park and Humphrey Head outdoor pursuits centres.