Penair-School-Prospectus-Digital

Prospectus

2015 - 2016

PENAIR LIVE TO LEARN
SCHOOL DISCE UT VIVAS



Contents

What you will find in this prospectus

5 Headteacher’s Welcome 24 Faculty of Media Studies

6 Faculty of Mathematics 26 Primary Links

8 Faculty of English 28 Promoting Community Learning

10 Faculty of Science 30 Special Educational Needs

12 Faculty of Expressive Arts 32 Gifted and Talented

14 Faculty of Design Technology 34 Extra Curricular Activities and Clubs

16 Faculty of Sport, Health and Fitness 36 Our Dining Room

18 Faculty of Modern Languages 38 School Plan

20 Faculty of Humanities and Citizenship 39 School Information

22 Faculty of Work Related Learning



5

Mr Davidson

Head Teacher

Considering and starting at a new school continue to be the number one priority for the school. Our students benefit from
is an exciting time for young people highly qualified and exceptionally committed staff who recognise the importance
and their parents. I do hope that this of creative and exciting teaching that builds strong relationships. Students have
prospectus will enable you to see that access to a high quality personalised core curriculum that will prepare them
we are a school with high aspirations for ambitious courses post-16. We have a strong system of support which helps
for all our students. Penair is a thriving students manage their learning, builds confidence and helps them exceed their
11-16 school that represents everything targets, as well as a varied and extensive extracurricular programme.
that is exciting about comprehensive
education. We have an enviable record Penair has formed many partnerships within the local community to maximise
of examination success, but the staff and learning opportunities and to secure the best experience for its students and staff.
governors at Penair believe we can always This ethos of collaboration is paramount within Penair itself, as parents, staff and
improve even further. students work together to ensure that every child reaches their potential, with
regular communication and progress reporting a key facet to ensuring success.
Narrowing the gap and ensuring that all our students
make aspirational levels of progress, no matter what We believe that school life must be a really memorable experience that will ensure
their starting points or background, is and will our students have rewarding and successful lives and are fully prepared for the
future. We are confident that Penair provides that experience for every one of
its students. I am sure you will see for yourselves how the positive relationships,
caring atmosphere and academic rigour bring out the best in every student. I
look forward to welcoming you soon.

6

Faculty of Qualifications Available Over 80% of students achieved
A*- C in 2014 and 2015
GCSE Mathematics at higher or foundation level Well above the national average
GCSE Statistics
Certificate in further Mathematics Head of Faculty
Entry level certificate in Mathematics Mrs S Stephens

Mathematics

Mathematics is essential for everyday Geometry and Data Handling as required by the
life and understanding our world. It is National Curriculum. These key areas are visited
also essential to science, technology and every year and our aim is that all students consolidate
engineering, and the advances in these their knowledge and understanding and make further
fields on which our economic future progress. Indeed the Mathematics department at
depends. It is therefore fundamentally Penair achieve outstanding results in terms of grades
important to ensure that all pupils have achieved and progress made.
the best possible mathematics education.
In 2014 we attained 80% A* - C in Maths which was
They need to understand the mathematics they learn within the top 5 schools in Cornwall. The number of
so that they can be creative in solving problems, as students making expected progress in Maths was 75%
well as being confident and fluent in developing and which was 10% above the national average.
using the mathematical skills so valued by the world
of industry and higher education. Students are entered for Higher or Foundation
During their five years at Penair our students tier GCSE. In addition to this students have the
develop fluency and confidence in Number, Algebra, opportunity to study GCSE Statistics and may also
complete a Certificate in Further Mathematics. We
also offer an Entry Level Certificate for those few
students for whom GCSE is not appropriate.

Visit the faculty online - penair.cornwall.sch.uk/curriculum/core-subjects/mathmatics

Faculty Facts 7

Penair School won the Maths Team Challenge 2013 and came 3rd in 2014. 20 schools Extra Curricular Activities
across Cornwall competed and Clubs

The Mathematics team includes a certified Ofsted inspector and PGCE SCITT subject leader Our learning café for key stage 4 gives students extra
support and revision help as they work towards
Some teachers in the Mathematics department mark for GCSE exam boards to give them their GCSE’s
further insight into exam techniques and common mistakes Thursday after school, key stage 3 pupils can come
along for extra tuition.
For more information on these clubs see the Penair’s Extra
Curricular Activities Guide or visit the Penair website
Learning with the department begins in years 5 & 6 when
lessons are carried out in our feeder schools. A member
of department regularly visits each of our partner
primary schools to provide a taster of the mathematics
they will meet at Penair. Gifted and Talented master
classes are also run at Penair to challenge able Year 5
and 6 pupils. From year 7 onwards we aim to provide
students a rich, enjoyable Mathematics curriculum
delivered by our committed and enthusiastic team.

“I most enjoy probability, percentages and algebra.

Maths is taught in a number of ways to make the lessons

fun and keep us engaged” Cora Grice

8

Faculty of Qualifications Available 74% of students achieved A*- C
in 2015
English GCSE English Language Well above the national average
GCSE English Literature
Assistant Headteacher / Head of Faculty
Visit the faculty online - penair.cornwall.sch.uk/ Mrs E Plunkett
curriculum/core-subjects/english

The English faculty’s commitment to ideas and opinions safely whilst knowing they will be Extra Curricular Activities
equality of opportunity is demonstrated challenged to think further. and Clubs
by its determination to give all students
the chance to excel and achieve their Our Key Stage 3 syllabus is engaging and inspiring Blogging
potential. To do this we group according as we study a wide range of fiction and non-fiction Coaching café for students and parents
to aspirational targets and share texts. This ensures a clear insight into how and why Aiming for A
exciting opportunities to open doors the English Language has developed, in line with the Coursework catch up
and maximise outcomes. national curriculum. English Council
Creative Writing Club
We enable the students in each classroom to aspire Our Year 11 students follow iGCSE language and Reading Club
to targets they can clearly see which in turn allows Edexcel literature. Year 10 and below are being Paired Reading
each a personal pathway to that target, or beyond. prepared for AQA GCSE language and literature. Theatre trips
All students study a combined course of English
language and English Literature. This enables them For more information on these clubs see the
to achieve two GCSE’s in English Penair’s Extra Curricular Activities Guide or visit
the Penair website
We expect a great deal from our students and Penair is very involved with literacy.
encourage them to expect the same from themselves. One way we inspire students to use
Students and staff are challenged to be the best they literacy in all subjects is using Literacy
can be. Bugs. Teachers can earn Literacy Bugs
by using literacy in their teaching. A
We encourage the individuals who enter our student identifies the use of literacy and
classrooms to build confidence in a supportive complete a slip which means the teacher
environment. We are passionate about what we do receives a Bug and the student a vivomile
and aim to create an environment that fosters the reward. Literacy is everywhere Year 7
same passion in our students. Students often say
they like English because it is a place to express their

9

Faculty Facts

We have an annual “Book Week” celebration of reading with many exciting activities including a much loved Dress Up
Day, which has proved very popular with students

Youth Speaks prepares students to speak confidently about a subject. Penair school prepares students well and they
achieve highly in competitions

“ At Penair, English is a lesson that I

find really enjoyable. It can be applied

to many different subjects in school

and this is why I think it is important.

We have a syllabus that is followed

closely in order for the teachers to

get the most out of their students, as

a student I find the works we study

interesting and I feel it broadens

everybody’s tastes in literature. ”

Rafael Rothwell

10 Qualifications Available

Faculty of GCSE Science Core Over 85% of students achieved
A*- C in Biology, Chemistry and
Science GCSE Physics Additional Physics in 2015
Well above the national average
GCSE Chemistry Additional
Assistant Headteacher / Head of Faculty
GCSE Biology Additional Mrs K Finlay

Balanced Science is taught throughout the school. This means Four Gifted and Talented Scientists
that all students use Biology, Chemistry and Physics contexts were chosen to represent Penair School
in order to develop skills. We are following a context based at The Salters Festival of Chemistry in
Key Stage 3 using the Wikid Science scheme developed by conjunction with the Royal Society for
the Association for Science Education. Chemistry. The students commented on
their experience that they ‘found it to be
Students are enthused by themes which place them in a scientific role that requires an interesting opportunity and lots of fun.’
particular skills to be learned and developed. These themes include Forensics,
Extinction and A and E making the Science relevant and exciting. Progress is
assessed throughout the course using a wide range of activities, measured against
national guidelines. This focus on skills is aiming to prepare pupils for the demands
they will face in their GCSE Sciences.

Visit the faculty online - penair.cornwall.sch.uk/curriculum/core-subjects/science

11

“ We do lots of practical work which are fun but my favourite
is learning about chemical reactions! ”
Bethany Robbins

All students are required to study Science at Key the Separate Science route.
Stage 4 and have two options. A number of students
achieve two GCSE grades. A grade for core science, In addition there are many extra curricular activities
and one for additional science, both of which include and events that take place within the faculty such
Biology, Chemistry and Physics. A number of students as Science Club, Science Leaders and even Physics
following the Eagle route in the end of key stage 3 Busking. Pupils involved in these activities have
assessments, choose to study a greater breadth and delivered lessons and workshops in Primary Schools,
opt for Separate Sciences (Biology, Chemistry and to local Beaver groups as well as at the BBC Radio
Physics) achieving 3 GCSE grades. We were amongst Cornwall stand at the Royal Cornwall Show. Our
the first to offer Separate Science within the county dynamic Science Show team also present a series of
and have been consistently successful. This route is Registration Demonstrations. During these sessions
available for either one of the options. At present just tutor groups are immersed in an exciting area of
over one third of our Key Stage 4 pupils are following science through dramatic demonstrations.

Faculty Facts Extra Curricular Activities and Clubs

Out of all our subjects, Science has the highest number of pupils who Year 8 and 9 Science Club
choose to study a science AS level at Truro College Science Leaders

Our Science Leaders regularly visit partner primary schools to teach For more information on these clubs see the Penair’s Extra Curricular
exciting Science Activities Guide or visit the Penair website

All Science teachers are passionate about Science in the world around them

12

Faculty of Qualifications Available 28% of students achieved A*- A
and over 90% achieved A* - C
GCSE Art, GCSE Drama grades in 2015
GCSE Music Well above the national average
GCSE Graphic Communication BTEC Level 2 Music
BTEC Level 2 Performing Arts: Dance Head of Faculty
NCFE Level 2 Music Technology Mrs H Logan

Expressive Arts

At Penair School we believe that curricular and community activities. All students We want to develop skills and confidence in using the
the Expressive Arts make a unique have access to a wide range of arts experiences both languages of the arts to communicate ideas about,
contribution to the education of young as individual disciplines and collaborative ventures. and understanding of, their world, create skills for
people because it is the place in which We work with our local and the wider community in life and living including citizenship and develop
the discovery of the arts is nurtured pursuance of these aims by collaborating with other awareness and appreciation of the rich cultural
and where pupils pursue creativity schools, professional artists and arts organisations diversity of the arts.
and experience achievement, respect, to forge creative partnerships.
freedom and fun. In pursuance of these aims we provide all young
Our work is based on the belief that the artist is in people with opportunities to have experience and
Arts education is an entitlement for all students both everyone and aims to encourage young people as improve skills in a range of art forms including a range
within the formal curriculum and through extra- imaginative, creative beings with a lifelong interest of media, collaborative endeavour and develop the
in the arts. confidence to share their work with others.

Visit the faculty online - penair.cornwall.sch.uk/curriculum/expressive-arts

13

Faculty Facts

A popular faculty developed Arts Leadership programme is available. Pupils work on many projects within the local community and with
professional artists. The opportunity to follow the National Arts Award programme is also available

Stage Coach UK - the nations biggest acting, dancing, singing and drama provider for children use Penair’s facilities

Carrick Dance - each year our dance students take part in this project which promotes dance to both secondary and primary schools, and
as a result our students get to perform in one of Cornwall’s biggest venue- The Hall For Cornwall.

We aim to nurture and expand the expertise of Staff in Art, Music, Dance and Drama are all specialists Extra Curricular Activities and
our staff to identify and share best practice and to and many are arts practitioners, performing, writing Clubs
make our expertise and resources available to our and designing. They pursue their own development
community. as artists as well as teachers through courses and School Production KS3 Art Club
experiences here and abroad. Singing Club Drama Club Rock Skool
ICT plays an increasingly important role in PSB (Penair School Band) Year 7 Choir
arts education including graphic design, music In Key Stage 3 all students study Art, Dance, Drama Dance Club Music Theory Support
technology, lighting design and control, video and Music as separate subjects but by Key Stage
production and use of a virtual learning environment. 4 pupils are able to opt for an art course. There For more information on these clubs see the
There is a designated ICT suite solely for the use of are traditional GCSE courses as well as BTEC and Penair’s Extra Curricular Activities Guide or visit
Expressive Arts, and a recording studio within the vocational qualifications. the Penair website
Music Department.

“ The greatest thing about Penair is that it lets me be me. I

love art because it lets me express my thoughts and feelings

on paper and in a way I enjoy. ” Claudia Duval

“ Expressive Arts at Penair allows you to experiment in

your own way, making your own path to do what suits you ”

Claudius Cooper

14

Faculty of Qualifications Available GCSE Food Technology Over 70% of students achieved
GCSE Product Design A*- C grades in DT subjects in
GCSE Engineering GCSE Catering 2015
GCSE Child Development Well above the national average
GCSE Textiles
GCSE Systems + Control

Design Technology Head of Faculty
Mrs L Baines

The Design Technology Faculty believes Modules are regularly updated to keep pace with and celebrate success. Some of the accommodation
in enabling all students to become changing technologies. has been designed and refurbished by the staff
independent, creative and innovative themselves, which has led to a facility which inspires
designers moving design forward in a At Key Stage 4 a range of materials are offered as admiration from visitors. Students are able to make
rapidly developing technological world. popular options at GCSE. The faculty regularly use of a laser cutter, a 3-D printer, CNC router,
reviews these and offers new courses (eg. well equipped specialist rooms, and an up to date
We recognise the value of risk taking, and that Engineering) to inspire and motivate students in computer suite with ‘state of the art’ design software.
experimentation and unexpected outcomes provide our fast changing world.
innovative opportunities for designing and making. Students support each other, collaborating effectively
Key Stage 3 students study three modules in DT each The DT area is exceptionally attractive with well and courteously. A sense of humour and fun create
year: Engineering, Food & Catering, and Textiles. organised and equipped classrooms, community a happy and productive ethos. Teaching exploits a
spaces and corridors. Outstanding displays and a variety of learning styles and promotes discussion.
regular newsletter support independent learning

Faculty Facts Anna West in Year 8 competed in the national
‘Future Chef’ competition and went through to the
The green powered vehicles have added to their national finals held in London.
trophy cabinet again in 2014 and 2015 and yet again
go on to represent the region at the national finals We work with many of our local primary schools to
at Goodwood in October. Last year they gained support the teaching of Design and Technology. Many
awards for ‘Best Engineered Car’ and the ‘Spirit of KS1 and 2 children have been able to use our facilities
Greenpower’ award, for the help they have given to in practical Food lessons and in Engineering this
other teams. They have again added to the trophies year. SPLAT day and Jamie Oliver’s food revolution
with a 3rd place and the ‘Best Blog Spot’ in 2015. day went down a treat in June 2015.

15

“ I like DT because you can be creative

and you can also learn many

important life skills. ”

Kizzy Fox

Extra Curricular Activities and Clubs

The ‘Let’s Get Cooking’ Club offers students the
chance to develop their love of cooking

The Engineering Club provides the chance for
budding engineers to build, prepare and race
the highly successful “green power vehicles”
in local events and other competitions

Year 11 students can access after school workshops in
all materials to continue their design work and folios

For more information on these clubs see the Penair’s
Extra Curricular Activities Guide or visit the website

Visit the faculty online - penair.cornwall.sch.uk/
curriculum/core-subjects/design-technology

16

Faculty of Qualifications Available In 2015 25% of students
achieved A* - A grades and
GCSE Physical Education 65% achieved A* - C grades in
Physical Education
Sport Leadership Award

Sport, Health and Fitness Head of Faculty
Mr J Hocking

Penair School’s faculty of Sport, Health At Penair School we want to give the pupils
& Fitness (SHF) teaches all pupils in the ownership over their own goals and give them greater
school a modern and balanced programme independence in accessing healthy and active exercise
of sport, health and fitness activities. in a variety of physical activities.

We have given a lot of thought into the type of We like pupils to be looking smart and have made
individuals we want to see by the time pupils leave us strides to improve the appearance of the required kit.
and this has shaped the planning and design of what Involving our sports council, we have a very smart
is a very modern and forward looking curriculum. and professional looking SHF kit which the pupils
take pride in wearing.

Our faculty is one of the best placed within the school Our students have had excellent success in
to develop independent young people who are not inter-school, regional, county and even national
afraid to challenge themselves. competitions and offer an extensive range of extra-
curricular opportunities.
We want our students to know what it feels like to be
physically and mentally exhausted, to have experienced Pupils of all abilities are encouraged to take part in
the highs of victory and the lows of defeat along with the additional activities and staff work hard to ensure
knowing what it means to a member of a team. they are well attended.

Our vision for the future is to provide pupils with We have some of the best sports facilities locally and
a first class 21st Century sport, health and fitness our pupils are extremely lucky. These provide them
experience that actively engages and inspires each with an excellent environment in which to learn and
and every pupil to discover and realise the mental and develop their full SHF potential.
physical rewards of choosing to pursue an active and
healthy lifestyle.

17

“ I always look forward to my PE Faculty Facts

lessons as they are always enjoyable Pupils in Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 receive 120
minutes of SHF each week,which totals 72 hours
and challenging. We get to do many each year and is equivalent to 360 hours in five years

activities and I like learning new Penair School has played 225 competitive fixtures
in the past year involving more than 550 pupils
skills and seeing how much I improve
Girl’s Under 14 netball went to national finals in
during the lessons. I also, like all the Liverpool
extra - curricular clubs on
Under 15 Girls tag rugby got to national finals at
offer after school. This Twickenham

year I have attended Under 15 girls cricket won the Cornwall County
the hockey, rugby, Championships

football, cricket,

athletics, badminton

and tennis clubs. ”

Alex Lean

Extra Curricular Activities and Clubs

Athletics Squash
Rounders Dance
Cross Country Cheerleading
Basketball Fitness
Rugby Badminton
Cricket Football
Hockey Netball
Girl’s Football

For more information on these clubs see the Penair’s
Extra Curricular Activities Guide or visit the website

Visit the faculty online -penair.cornwall.sch.uk/
curriculum/core-subjects/sport-health-fitness

1?8

“ We play games to help us understand

the different activities and speak to
each other so the lessons are always
fun. Sometimes we use a ball to bounce
words off one another. I really look

forward to the classes. ”
Neve Birnie

Faculty of Qualifications Available 41% of students achieved A*- A
and 83% A* - C in French and
GCSE French German
Well above the national average
GCSE German
Head of Faculty
Modern Languages Mrs H Innard

At Penair, we firmly believe in the value world. Learning a language fosters a sense of We enjoy an above average take up for languages
of learning a foreign language and that tolerance because of the necessity to see the world and we put this down to the positive ethos around
every child should have the right to from somebody else’s point of view. the department. We have a French and German
learn a language throughout his or her Teaching Assistant whom pupils really value, not
time with us. The main languages we teach are French and just because of their excellent accents but also
German. When a pupil joins the school, he or she, because of their up to date knowledge of culture
We believe that languages are important for the will be allocated a tutor group which studies either in these countries. One of our teachers is a French
world of work, travel and tourism but that learning French or German. Students will continue with that national and pupils are used to hearing teachers
a foreign language contributes to a sense of self language throughout Key Stage 3 and then choose to speaking French and German in a natural way in the
confidence, literacy skills and knowledge of the continue to GCSE in Key Stage 4. Students who show department and in turn find that our enthusiasm for
an aptitude for their first language will be able to do languages is infectious.
a second in year 8.

Extra Curricular Activities and Clubs Faculty Facts

Exchanges trips to Toulouse in France and Achim in Germany. Uptake at GCSE is well above the national average
GCSE practice sessions and homework help. 94% of the world’s population do not speak English as their first language
Language assistants for extra help.

For more information on these clubs see the Penair’s Extra Curricular Activities We have French and German native speakers in the department
Guide or visit the Penair website

Visit the faculty online - penair.cornwall.sch.uk/curriculum/core-subjects/modern-foreign-languages

20

Faculty of Qualifications Available 75% of students achieved A*- C
in in History, Geography and
GCSE History Philosophy and Ethics, with
GCSE Geography 100% in Philosophy and Ethics
GCSE Philosophy and Ethics Well above the national average
GCSE Religious Education

Humanities & Citizenship Head of Faculty
Mrs J M Reed

We want students to be inquisitive Faculty Facts
and to reflect on their learning; to
understand that the way we explore All subjects are taught in a cross-curricular way, with
events has changed throughout time, all teachers involved in more than one subject area
and depends on where we live and our
own internal set of beliefs. Our contact with our community is through visits
from our local MP; magistrates and other local
Students use Humanities lessons to discover British leaders visit regularly, we make contact with people
values and explore social, moral, spiritual and cultural from outside our area with ‘Day of Difference’ and
understanding of themselves and their world. They ‘Prison, Me, No Way’ days
will learn how the choices we make shape our future
and how events in the past and in other parts of the Extra Curricular Activities and Clubs
world have happened, whether these are natural
disasters or world wars. Students are encouraged to We run field trips at home and abroad for every
reflect on the morality and ethics of decisions in a way child in KS3 and our GCSE students at KS4
that will help them in later life and enable them to be We take an active part in Citizenship ceremonies at
Active Citizens in their communities. County Hall every month
We offer extra tuition to groups of selected students
Visit the faculty online - penair.cornwall.sch.uk/ to help them achieve their GCSE grade. Focused
curriculum/core-subjects/humanities revision is also available in the run up to the exams
Amnesty International meetings are run by the
Faculty.

For more information on these clubs see the Penair’s
Extra Curricular Activities Guide or visit the website

21

“ I always look forward to my

humanities lessons. They are

interesting, engaging and a highlight

of the day. The rich history and

geography of our planet combined

with friendy, assertive teachers

make a brilliant department - one

of my favourites! I cannot wait to

continue History and Geography in

year 9 and will hopefully take them

to GCSE level. ” Beth Vingoe

22

Faculty of Qualifications Available 85% of students achieved A*- C in
Computing and ICT in 2015 with
GCSE ICT Single Award 46% A* - A in Computing
GCSE ICT Double Award Well above the national average
GCSE Business Studies
GCSE Computing

Work Related Learning Joint Heads of Faculty
Ms E Donnelly Mrs C Trevennen

We are educating students today for industries that do not Recognising the growing importance of fostering creators not consumers of
yet exist. As a faculty we endeavour to provide your child with technology, we ensure your child is given opportunities to understand the
the knowledge and understanding they require to be savvy fundamentals of computer programming and it is from this firm foundation that
confident users of ICT in what is an increasingly digital world. their interest and capability is developed through both key stages. We are currently
running an extremely popular and successful GCSE in computing in addition to
We place emphasis on ‘doing’ rather than ‘writing’ where ICT is concerned. core GCSE ICT.
They will have access to state of the art facilities in a purpose built Business
and Enterprise Centre, industry standard software and the opportunity to use Virtual Learning Environments provide learners of all ages with 24/7 access to
a wide range of digital devices from GPS systems to Raspberry Pis. We work media rich, engaging materials. We are a Flagship department in the pioneering
collaboratively with other departments promoting a culture that encourages use of these new technologies. We have embedded the use of Moodle (our VLE) in
students to use transferable skills in their learning, in any context. our own teaching practice and actively promote its use as a teaching and learning
tool across the school and support VLE development County wide.

Extra Curricular Activities and Clubs Faculty Facts

Computer arts club will develop your child’s creative and technical ability using Code academy runs at lunch times so that students can develop their knowledge
the Adobe CS5 suite of programming
GCSE support sessions run are delivered twice weekly throughout the academic
year in addition to the Easter holiday In Computer arts club, tutorials every week cover everything from
manipulating photographs with Photoshop to creating amazing vector
For more information on these clubs see the Penair’s Extra Curricular Activities illustrations with Illustrator.
Guide or visit the Penair website

23

Visit the faculty online - penair.cornwall.sch.uk/curriculum/core-subjects/
work-related-learning-business-studies-ict

Careers

Our careers guidance helps inspire pupils towards further study and enables them
to make informed decisions. The Careers Education and Guidance programme
prepares all students for adult life and the wide ranging opportunities open to
them, and all students at Penair have access to this.

We work closely with local employers, Further education providers, Universities
and the Armed Forces to ensure that students have a broad range of experience in
which to make their decisions. The annual careers fair is an excellent opportunity
for parents and students to discover more about the choices available to them.

Each year students are able to visit local Colleges, attend University seminars and
employer workshops . Through the cadet force students are able to find out more
about the armed services.

“Schools should help every pupil develop high aspirations and consider a broad
and ambitious range of careers. Inspiring every pupil through more real-life
contacts with the world of work can help them understand where different choices
can take them in the future”

“Careers Guidance and Inspiration in School”
Department of Education March 2015

24

Faculty of Qualifications Available 83% of students achieved A*- C
in in Media Studies in 2015
GCSE Media Studies Well above the national average

Single Entry Assistant Headteacher leading English
Mrs E Plunkett
Media Studies

Media Studies is an exciting course that “ Media is an enriching course which
pupils can take as an option in Key Stage
4 that combines practical activities with allows to express your true creativity
analysis and writing.
whilst learning about various
Media Studies is a course that combines the theoretical
study of the Mass Media and Media platforms with institutions and media platforms. ”
practical application of the theory learnt. Students
get to choose from a range of different topics which Ellie Casanove
culminates in 3 controled assessments.

Modules will offer the opportunity for students
to study Magazines, British Comedy Films and to
undertake a practical production assignment of their
own choice based on a hobby or interest.

The course develops students’ understanding of the Visit the faculty online - penair.cornwall.sch.uk/
way the media has developed to become a powerful curriculum/core-subjects/media-studies
influence in contemporary society with particular
focus on the understanding of representation,
analysis, institutions, audience, language, ideology,
narrative and genre.

25

Careers

Media skills are transferable to many careers. However, it will also benefit those wishing to work in:

TV, Film, Radio, ICT, Journalism, Advertising, Marketing, Presenting, Publishing, Writing, Editing
and so much more.

Faculty Facts

Students create their own webpages and websites!

Students enjoy creating their own publications -
some exceptional magazines about football and
fashion have been created

On Red Nose Day, students created their own
music promos involving the teaching staff

Some great thirty second film trailers are created
by our talented students using filming and software

26

Primary Links

Transfer from primary to secondary the focal point. This is followed by two Intake days School Productions
school is an important time for all in July for Year 6 pupils that are spent with Year 7 · Promotes a wide range of curricular activities
children; some students take it in their tutors in new form groups. The aim of the two Intake between schools, often supported by Penair
stride, others are less certain. Transfer days is to ensure that pupils feel confident, eager students (eg Junior Sports Leaders help to
from primary school can be a nervous and enthusiastic to start at Penair in September. organise multi-skills sports events; Sport, Health
time. We understand this and many Immediately after the Intake days a ‘New Parents’ & Fitness Faculty hosts workshops as well as mini-
supportive measures are in place to help Evening is held to exchange valuable information sports days for Primary Schools)
families adapt quickly and comfortably and meet form tutors, the Director of Learning, · Transition orchestra and the joint Penair &
to the new world. At Penair we invest the Headteacher and Senior Leadership Team.  In Partner Primary Schools Concert)
a considerable amount of time and recent years, Year 6 students have also taken part · Recognises the gifts and talents of all our primary
effort in an induction programme in a ‘summer challenge’ activity.  This takes place students
which will help students adjust socially, in the summer holiday period with the intention
emotionally and academically. of enabling students to establish and build new Penair enjoys partnership with the seven Partner
friendships before starting at Penair in September. Primary Schools in/around the Truro area:
Penair School recognises the importance of building Archbishop Benson Primary School
and maintaining close and effective links with all of We meet every new student individually in their own Bosvigo Primary School
our partner primary schools.  Primary children visit partner primary school before transfer and there are Devoran Primary School
our site to use facilities on a regular basis so that the opportunities during the induction days for meeting Kea Community Primary School
start to Penair in Year 7 isn’t a ‘new’ experience. with key members of the school staff. St Erme with Trispen Primary School
St Mary’s Church of England Primary School
Visits are also made to primary schools as often as Penair has a successful and strong relationship Tregolls Primary School
possible by senior staff, the Director of Learning with the surrounding partner primary schools. Strong links also exist with Truro Nursery School.
(Head of Year) and our Director of Inclusion We work with them on a variety of projects and
(Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO), events throughout the year. This ensures a smooth Transition information
to establish links with future students. Members of transition from primary to secondary education. www.penair.cornwall.sch.uk/transition-to-penair/
staff teach lessons in our Partner Primaries and we
have an exciting Year 5 curriculum project during The partnership:
the summer term with a special day of activities as · Includes all our local partner primary schools
· Provides continuing professional development
between colleagues
· Invites students and teachers to our excellent

27

Community

Promoting Community Learning

We support local events, and open our facilities to “Penair has a vested interest in not only their students, but the children who are on their
local organisations and enjoy, through our Association way to joining them. This has been a real changing experience for me to have a Secondary
of Parents and Friends of Penair School, a strong school so dedicated to ensuring that all children in the local community have the right to
relationship with parents. We are very proud of our an outstanding education. Penair’s sponsorship, have not just provided specialist support
strong community links and of the many fundraising in teaching, but also leadership support and challenge to the school as it to seeks to become
and charity events, often organised by our students, outstanding. With Penair’s support, the future is bright for all of our children.”
during the year.
Matt Middlemore, Head of Primary Learning, Tregolls Academy

Students are encouraged as much as possible to play an active role in Our students are very well prepared for the demands
the life of the school. As well as having a very strong school council of further education, employment and training as
students are encouraged to be ‘active citizens’ by the way in which evidenced through our long history with Truro college.
they lead on initiatives such as being Eco School representatives as
well as organising the promotion of Fair Trade. Strong links have been developed with the world of work.
We are involved in Education Business Partnerships
“As part of Citizenship all students are encouraged to take an and regularly run annual ‘Have a Go!’ days for year 9
active part in the community. This can range from running the pupils in addition to dedicated work with our Business
Fair Trade Enterprise (a tuck shop for students and staff) to having Studies department. This creates a keen awareness of
the opportunity to attend the Citizenship Ceremony held every the world of work amongst the students.
month for new British Citizens at County Hall. Through active
participation in these activities our students are able to develop We encourage parents’ involvement in supporting
communication skills and empathy in a range of different settings.” and encouraging their children in their school work.
Experience shows that by monitoring learning though
Carmel Henry (Teacher i/c Citizenship and Geography) the student’s planner ensuring full attendance and
attending information evenings, parents can make a
huge positive difference to a student’s progress and
achievement.

29

“A constructive and helpful
dialogue between parents and
school is very important in
contributing to the effectiveness
of our students’ education. Our
Association of Parents and Friends
of Parents of Penair School (APFPS)
organise a number of fundraising
events throughout the year. The
Association is the focus for the
partnership of parents, teachers and
students where it exists to support
the work of the school in helping to
promote learning and to develop
links with Faculties in school.
Some examples of fundraising
activities that have taken place
this year have involved raffles for
prize draws; Bag2School recycling
collections and anywhere else a
helping hand is required; quizzes
for parents and friends; providing
refreshments at parents evenings
and by supporting   activities in
school such as the nearly new/used
school uniform and also supporting
the annual Literary festival. The
APFPS continues to grow every
year and all parents are invited to
join the association and to attend
any of its functions.”

Lynne Bray (Parent and Chair of APFPS)

30

Special Education Needs

Penair School’s Equal Opportunities policy is a Director of Inclusion in Ms Vikki Edgeler who is all parts of the school. There are a number of disabled
commitment by the school and its governing body, to responsible for the day-to-day provision for students toilets situated in various locations around the school.
the promotion of equality of opportunity in all areas with additional educational needs.
of school life. Identification of special educational needs follows
Penair School operates an Equal Opportunity policy assessment procedures outlined in the Code of
Penair School will promote, by all means within its for the admission of students with special educational Practice. After the identification of a student’s needs,
power, attitudes and actions which will actively assist needs and they are afforded the same rights as students support is provided in a range of ways which allow
in the creation of harmony in the lives of all involved without special educational needs. The school takes learning needs to be met in class, small group or
in the school and which will add to each individual’s advice from the Local Authority as to the appropriate individual contexts. Full details of the school’s local
dignity and worth. Equally the school will resist resources and facilities that may be needed for the offer can be found on the school website and on
anything which will in any way detract from such integration of the special needs students into Penair. the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Family Information
dignity and worth on the grounds of gender, race, Penair School has been modified for wheelchair access Service Directory.
relation, culture or disability. and there are lifts and ramps to ensure full access to

Penair School’s Local Offer outlines how we are
committed to meeting the needs of students with
Special Educational Needs and disabilities. Each area
of the curriculum values the learning and achievement
of all students and aims to meet their individual needs.
Each subject teacher has the responsibility to ensure
that all students can make progress commensurate
with their abilities; staff are committed to identifying
and providing for the needs of ALL children. We are
an inclusive school and believe that everyone should
be encouraged to reach their full potential as a learner.
To that end the Bywva Inclusion Centre provides
additional support to students who may experience
difficulities accessing the school timetable. The
inclusion centre fosters a calm and caring environment
with a commitment to meeting the social, emotional
and intellectual needs of young people. Penair School’s



32

Gifted and Talented

Inspiring

Penair School aims to meet the needs we will adopt an “inclusive” approach rather Royal Albert Hall. These are to name but a few.
of our Gifted and Talented students than an “exclusive” approach. We appreciate There is an opportunity for more able students in year
in a socially constructive atmosphere. that students may possess intelligences in areas 10 to sit AS level Critical Thinking. This is studied
We want to recognise success and to other than purely academic ones. For example, at Truro College during Year 10. The examination is
encourage the development of each interpersonal, leadership, citizenship to name but taken in June of Year 10 at Penair School.
child’s potential such that we develop a few. Furthermore, some students may exhibit
aptitudes, raise aspirations and provide dual exceptionality and have specific learning Every department has its own policy and an array of
the appropriate levels of challenge. difficulties in addition to high ability. opportunities for acceleration, creativity, extension
and leadership. Many other opportunities arise
We ensure that all students are encouraged to Students are encouraged to keep Penair School during the course of the year.
develop their abilities and potential through: updated with their progress in talents and skills
•Acceleration developed outside school to enable us to join in Look out for the Maths Challenge, Youth Speaks,
•Creativity and Enhancement celebrating achievements and hard work. School Production opportunities, Carrick Dance,
•Extension Science Leaders and many more…
Currently in our midst we have students who are
At Penair School we like to recognise and County Squash Champions, Fencers with GB Team Rise to the challenge,
celebrate the wide range of talents and abilities Potential, National BMX cyclists and road racers,
of our students. In order to achieve these aims actors and actresses who have performed at The Hall what will you do?
for Cornwall and singers who have performed at The

33

Inspiring

Extra Curricular Activities & Clubs

RAF Cadets Electronics Club Debating
Cricket club Let’s Get Cooking Media
Fencing KS4 Design Technology Poetry
Golf Woodwork Club Year 7 School Production Band
Table Tennis Engineering Group Clarinet Group
Netball KS4 Design Technology String Orchestra
Hockey STEM Club (Engineering) Samba Band
Cheer Leading KS4 Design Technology Ukulele Club
Badminton DT Club for Year 7 Brass Ensemble
Rugby Textiles Rock School
General fitness English Penair School Band

Wave Project UK

35

Dance Club GCSE Dance Gardening Club
Guitar Hero Club Dance Club Homework Club
Brass Club Boys Dance Club GCSE Support
Keyboard Club School Play Rehearsals Eco School
Singing Club KS3 Art Club Photography
Exploratorius Science Club Art Club Citizenship
Year 8 and 9 Science Club Computer Arts Amnesty International
Science Leaders Spanish Penair Engineering
GCSE Astronomy Club French DoE
Carrick Dance Languages Homework Club Surfing
Drama Chinese Club Creative Club

Our Dining Room

Healthy Schools

Our award winning kitchen has always pursued The ethos in our dining room is to be farm assured Our food is so popular that we recently extended our
a policy of sourcing the best ingredients locally and all of our suppliers are from Cornwall, dining room to include an outside seating area which
through our “farm to fork” philosophy. including our Butcher Scorses Foods, Helston, is proving to be very popular with our students. We
Fish from Matthew Stevens and Sons of Newlyn, also offer a takeaway service and instead of using
Winners of a Silver Award from the Food for Life Crantock bakery for our pasties, Westcountry Fruit polystyrene boxes, we use ones made from sugar cane
Partnership, we are always looking to improve the Sales for local fruit and veg and Cusgarne Organic fibres which are completely compostable and can
sustainability of our meals. Currently we source all Farm in Truro for our organic beef and vegetables. go into our bio-digester. The boxes are supplied by
fruit and veg that we cannot grow in our kitchen Vegware and are made from a variety of compostable
garden and greenhouses from local farms and We are also working with schools in The South materials. You can find out more about them at the
our local fish suppliers. This summer we plan to West to help them achieve their first food for Life Vegware website vegware.com/materials-we-use/
enlarge our garden into a small holding, including Partnership awards. info_17.html.
chickens. We also create our own weekly veg and
meat box, including seasonal veg and meat from Finally, one of our maths teachers, Mrs Cook, For our latest menu please visit
our local suppliers. supplies the staff with delicious free-range eggs www.penair.cornwall.sch.uk/lunchtime-menus
from her growing flock of chickens.

37

Our School 1 Science (1st and 2nd floor) 10 Humanities

School Plan 2 Mathematics 11 Languages

11 3 Mathematics/English/ICT (Elliott buildings) 12 P.E.

12 4 Design Technology 13 Sports Hall

5 Expressive Arts 14 ICT/Business Enterprise/WRL

6 Lecture Theatre 15 Dining Room

3 7 Main Hall 16 English/Media

8 Library 17 Bywva Centre and All Weather Pitch

9 Entrance and Reception C41 Learning Centre

4 17
4 16

5 7 14 15
12
C41
13
6

89 10
11

39

School Information

Links to Policies and Information

We believe communication is key. We work hard to For a guide to our exam results and for further Or to see what our past students have been up to
ensure parents and guardians are kept informed of performance and Ofsted information links please since leaving us, go to our Alumni page - www.penair.
what is going on, which is why our website is regularly visit - www.penair.cornwall.sch.uk/2014-results cornwall.sch.uk/alumni
updated. We haven’t featured all of the school policies
and information in this prospectus, but here are the Our fortnightly newsletter aims to highlight activities You can also find Mr Davidsons Headteacher blog on
links to our website where you can find everything and achievements both inside and outside of school, the website, as well as Blogs written by our students.
you need to know… so we encourage parents and students to get in touch
regarding any achievements, however big or small so To find information about school uniform go to
Home page - www.penair.cornwall.sch.uk that we can show our students off! You will find our www.penair.cornwall.sch.uk/uniform-2
most recent newsletters archived on our website. Go
School Policies - www.penair.cornwall.sch.uk/ to www.penair.cornwall.sch.uk/penair-post
policies-2

Follow us on social media!

@penairschool
penairschooltruro

Designed by Quayside design and print quaysidedesignandprint.co.uk

PENAIR LIVE TO LEARN
SCHOOL DISCE UT VIVAS

St Clement, Truro TR1 1TN 01872 274737
[email protected] www.penair.cornwall.sch.uk