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West Exe School
Newsletter
February 2015
Vol 7 Issue 3
‘YOUTH SPEAKS’ REGIONAL CHAMPIONS!
On January 20th, three Year 8 students; Owen A, Ella J and Charlotte M,
represented the school at the regional heat of the annual Youth Speaks
competition organised by the Rotary International of Britain and Ireland. This is
a public speaking competition where teams talk about any subject they want
to. This may seem quite easy, but each team member has a specific role to
play and each role has its own requirements and guidelines which have to be
strictly followed if the team is to achieve a good score.
Eight teams competed in the regional heat with the top three progressing to
the regional final. Despite the additional pressure of being the first to present,
the West Exe team performed very well. There then followed the other teams’
talks and the judges’ deliberations before it was announced that West Exe was
through to the regional final.
The regional final was held a week later and, again, the West Exe team was
drawn to speak first. The team performed even better than they had in the
heat but the other finalists also raised their game and it was a very nervous
wait before the judges announced their decision – for the first time,
West Exe school were the regional winners! The team achieved a
combined score of a fraction below 90% which was a phenomenal effort.
Congratulations to Owen, Ella and Charlotte for their well-deserved success and
good luck for the South West final next month.
INSIDE THIS
ISSUE
HEADTEACHER APPOINTMENT: MR SÖNKE BEYER
On behalf of the Governing Body, I am delighted to announce the appointment of Mr Sönke Beyer as the new
and permanent Headteacher at West Exe. This appointment follows a lengthy, rigorous and competitive
selection process during which candidates were extensively tested on their suitability for this high profile
position.
Mr Beyer will be joining us from Newton Abbot College, where he is currently Deputy Principal. Mr Beyer will
take up his new position fully from April 2015, but in the meantime will be spending some time at West Exe
School familiarising himself with the school and students.
Mr Rick Jolley will be continuing his work as our Acting Headteacher until Mr Beyer takes up the role in April.
This is a key appointment for West Exe School and one which the Governing Body believes will be of enormous
significance in realising the highest aspirations of the school and students.
Over the coming months we hope you will join us in welcoming Mr Beyer to West Exe. Allan Hart, Chair of Governors Invigilators Required At West Exe School
West Exe School is seeking to add to its pool of part-time invigilators to assist during the summer GCSE
exams. The ability to work as part of a team is required. Full training will be given. Salary: £8.04 per hour
(subject to Job Evaluation).
The successful applicant will need to undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check (previously a
CRB check) and references will be taken up.
If you are interested in applying for this role please telephone Mrs Louise Garratt, Exams Manager, on 01392
660100 Ext. 176 or e-mail [email protected] for further details.
EXETER CITY
REWARDS
WEST EXE TOP PERFORMERS
Exeter City FC, who have been working closely with West Exe recently, donated thirty complimentary tickets to
the Tranmere Rovers vs Exeter City FC match on January 31st, as part of the recognition and reward of good
behaviour, progress, attendance and achievement. Selected West Exe students were given an opportunity to
attend the match and have their names printed in the programme as a way of celebrating their success. For
students to qualify they had to be nominated firstly by their tutors and then each year team had to nominate
their five top students in the year group. The PE team also nominated students who had given their service to
football. Congratulations and well done to Year 11: Benjamin F, Sean GJ, Sam C, Jake H, Sam R. Year 10: Max
H, Carlie S, Tommy C, Will B, Finn C. Year 9: James D, Camille D, Blake N, Charlie S, Ruan E. Year 7: Joe G,
Ben L, Elliot B, Rees EC, Max H. PE: Robert B, Stella H, Chloe W, Ellie OC, Olivia M, Charlie M, Charlotte D,
Rachel S, Owen B, Lucy L who all received a free ticket as a reward for contributions and progress in school.
We hope that we will be able to offer more opportunities in the future. 2
Chris Davies, PE Department www.westexe.devon.sch.uk
FROM MR JOLLEY
Dear Parents and Friends
Yet again this newsletter is a testament to the
energy, talent and commitment shown by many of
the students and staff at West Exe. In every sense
it continues to be a vibrant community.
Unfortunately however, not all students choose to
access the many opportunities on offer, possibly
due to nervousness about trying something new,
or in some instances where costs are involved, due
to a lack of money. Please do encourage your child
to get involved, and if money is a concern do get
in touch with your child’s year leader who will
explain how you can access funds to enable your
son or daughter to learn a new skill or maybe to
simply burn off that excess energy.
Talking of energy, I must add a note of thanks to
the group of students who, every Wednesday, audit the school’s energy use, naming and shaming teachers
and support staff who do not take sensible steps to reduce their energy usage. We are supporting these
students’ efforts by working alongside Carillion to reduce our energy use and consequently our bills. Your
assistance would be greatly appreciated by insisting your son or daughter wears their school jumper to school.
This will allow us to turn down the heating slightly in those zones of the school that are currently overheated
whilst ensuring that students remain comfortable. Of course, this does not mean that we are about to turn the
heating off, but we are simply exploring where sensible savings can be made.
The staff and governors have been working hard since Christmas to develop the new school improvement plan.
This important document sets the priorities for the financial year ahead. A summary of this document will be
posted on the school website towards the end of term. In advance of that, I would draw your attention to two
of the priorities in that plan. Both priorities very much reflect the changing national educational context. As
examinations (as opposed to coursework) increasingly become the only way in which many courses are
ultimately judged, it has highlighted the importance of using year exams as a practice for those taken at the
end of Year 11. I would ask for your support by encouraging your son or daughter to carry out proper revision
and preparation for their examinations. Secondly, there is a need to improve the quality of extended writing
amongst many of our students. Whilst we do not expect parents to act as English teachers, simple things like
provision of a dictionary to assist with homework, encouragement to take pride in the presentation of work,
and students checking for errors will assist us in our attempts to develop technical improvements to their
writing.
Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all parents for the support you give to the school. Record
attendance at parents’ evenings seems to illustrate we share the same desire to give your sons and daughters
the best possible education.
Rick Jolley, Acting Headteacher
HEADTEACHER COFFEE ‘MORNINGS’
Our popular West Exe Headteacher Coffee ‘mornings’ continue this term, taking place during both mornings and
afternoons to give everyone the chance to attend. It’s your chance to ask questions, express
concerns, or just have a coffee or tea and a chat.
Come into Main Reception please. All parents welcome! Dates are:
Thursday
05 March 2015
9.30-10.30
with Mr Jolley
Thursday
23 April 2015
11.00-12.00
with Mr Beyer
Thursday
11 June 2015
13.30-14.30
with Mr Beyer
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Bringing learning to life
EPRAISE NOW SHOWS ATTENDANCE
Did you know that you can now
look at a detailed breakdown of
the attendance of your
child/children when logging on
to ePraise?
Simply click Profile > My
Profile and then choose
Attendance on the right hand
side. The attendance figures are
displayed as an Attendance
Graph and as a Complete
Record.
Kevin Hadley, Acting Deputy Headteacher SOUTH WEST INTER-SCHOOLS CLIMBING
COMPETITION
Six students gave up a whole day of this weekend to compete with thirteen other teams from the region, in
this first round of an indoor Bouldering and Climbing competition. Members were drawn from across the year
groups and the team comprised:
Lauren S, Nikita S, John-Morgan R, Tom E, Isabella W and Sammy C.
All of the climbers had to attempt a dozen climbs of grades 5 to 6c, but on the day, the grades were covered
up so as not to worry anyone, and I’m pleased to say none of our team were worried! They all competed with
as much determination and focus as any other climber, and I am proud of their achievement, their obvious
progression of skills, and their wholehearted participation. We didn’t bring home a trophy that day, but I
understand there were only a few points between all the teams.
The next round will be Bouldering, also held at the Quay perhaps at the end of March. Many thanks to Mr and
Mrs Saunders and Mrs Ross who unexpectedly stayed all day to help with belaying and other tasks.
Good luck with the next round, start practising!
Roy Couzens, Design & Technology Technician.
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www.westexe.devon.sch.uk
YEAR 9 SCULPTURES
FOR
EXETER
The two photos show students from 9SC on the first stage of constructing the sculptures for an Exeter
exhibition combined with the local primary schools. They are using wire structures to make sculptures of
themselves doing the things that they do in modern life. Ideas include using mobile phones, ICT items such as
laptops and E-books. The exhibition will be at West Exe in the summer term and all the local feeder schools
will be involved; the date has not yet been confirmed. Please check our website for an update.
Princess Phipps-Trezise, Art Department Top members of the class working on their projects, below are examples of
their art work
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Bringing learning to life
TAKE YOUR CYCLING SERIOUSLY:
DON’T MISS OUT ON BIKEABILITY!
Bikeability is “Cycling Proficiency” for the 21st century, designed to give young people the skills and knowledge
to cycle safely on today’s roads. The course helps to grow children’s independence in the years to come.
Students at West Exe have had the opportunity to take part in the Bikeability Level 1 and 2 courses if they
missed out at primary school.
On Bikeability Level 1 students have learnt how to be in full control of their bikes. They have had fun practising
cycling skills on the playground, preparing them to go out on the road, which is Bikeability Level 2!
The Level 2 element is delivered on quiet public roads. An element of risk is an essential part of the course,
giving them a real cycling experience, being taught how to deal with traffic on short journeys such as cycling to
school or the local shops. These risks are managed by qualified instructors, who looks after the students at all
times. In Devon alone, more than 6000 children receive Bikeability training each year.
Students who have successfully passed the course received a badge and certificate for successfully reaching the
standard for Level 1 or 2 Bikeability.
The next step is to progress to Level 3 where students will learn to be confident cyclists in all conditions.
Students will be challenged on busier roads and junctions, for example traffic lights and roundabouts. We’ll also
cover theory and practice of filtering techniques, usage of multiple lanes and problem anticipation. When
students reach Level 3 standard they will be able to deal with all types of road conditions and more challenging
traffic situations.
Instructors are coming your way this term; make sure to sign up! Any further questions please contact:
[email protected]
Nicola Lewis, PE Department
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www.westexe.devon.sch.uk
FIRST LEGO LEAGUE NATIONAL FINALS
LOUGHBOROUGH UNIVERSITY
As Far South West Regional Champions, the West Exe Roboteers were
invited to the national finals.
It was a massive event with thirty four teams from the all over the UK taking
part, with some 600 people at the event, including The Rt Hon Nicky Morgan,
the Education Secretary.
First Lego League is a global science and technology competition for teams of
school students, to encourage an interest in real world issues and develop key
skills that are crucial for their future careers. The students work together to
explore a given topic and to plan, program and test an autonomous robot to
solve several missions.
There are four sections to the competition and were judged on the following:
Robot Game
Teams built a robot using a LEGO MINDSTORMS kit that they programmed to autonomously complete a series
of missions on a specialised field and to score as many points as possible.
Robot Design
The technical aspect of the robot is assessed including innovative design, programming and robustness.
Project
Through the project, teams learn more about the science and engineering behind the challenge theme. The
teams identify a problem related to the theme, research the issues and propose a solution.
Core Values
While competing, the teams have to demonstrate core FLL values including gracious professionalism and
cooperation, encouraging high quality work, unqualified kindness and respect and learning.
West Exe School is passionate about giving our students new and exciting opportunities to engage in STEM
(Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) subjects. It is crucial to get the electronic engineers of the
future interested at an early age. If you know of a company that may be able to assist with our work in
electronics or perhaps sponsor a robot please contact me.
Paul Wigmore, Design and Technology Department
Team photo, left to right:
Mr Wigmore, Thomas T, Matthew B, Jack L, Corey T
& Ayman P
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Bringing learning to life
STUDENTS
ARE LEADING THE LEARNING IN THE
HISTORY
DEPARTMENT!
Over the last few months our Gifted and Talented Year 9 students have been given the mighty responsibility of
LESSON ARCHIVER. Their task.... to archive by capturing the essential learning styles within the lesson through
initiative and digital camera/iPad. They are expected to then use these photographs as a prompt and lesson
starter for the next lesson, to sharpen their own understanding and curiosity about what we learn, why we
learn and how we learn. Fascinating stuff!
Interestingly enough, the questions and mini tasks that are being designed by the students for the students
have been as exciting and focused as the archiving itself. Bravo Year 9 historians!
Sheila Baker, History Department
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www.westexe.devon.sch.uk
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Bringing learning to life
VISIT
OF
GILES DULEY
TO
WEST EXE SCHOOL
On Tuesday January 20th, we were delighted to have the conflict photographer, Giles Duley, visit the
Expressive Arts department. He was invited to work initially with a group of Gifted and Talented Drama
students, with a view to inspiring them with stories of people who have been affected by war in the last forty
years. His project, entitled “Legacy of War” was launched in October 2014 at an event, attended by Mr Salter,
Head of Expressive Arts, in London. The aim of the project is to raise awareness of issues surrounding war and
the effects of wars once they are over.
West Exe School is the first school to engage with the project, and the aim is to tell some of the stories through
a piece of drama that the group of Year 10 and 11 students will devise and take to the Edinburgh Fringe
Festival to perform this summer. We are very excited to have this opportunity, and will be posting progress
reports on how our contribution to the project is going.
Following the inspirational meeting, Giles then went and spoke to the Year 10 GCSE Photography group, whose
Dave Salter, Head of Expressive Arts
report is below.
Giles Duley, the conflict photographer, came to our photography lesson at the
end of January.
Mr Tyrer showed us some of Giles’s work but told us nothing about Giles.
His pictures are of victims of war, but I found them beautiful and very touching.
The pictures told me more than any books could but his pictures were also
shocking and showed me how horrible, pointless and evil all wars really are… and
then Giles walked in. We all realised straight away that he too is a victim of war:
he has no legs and only one arm. He is therefore called a triple amputee I was
completely transfixed by what he had to say. He has dedicated his life to
recording the horrors of war, he has seen all these terrible and needless things
and yet he is still passionate and positive about his whole life. Despite his
disability Giles is now back doing what he feels driven to do; photographing the
victims of conflict so that the world can see how evil war really is.
Giles Duley Anaya B. Yr10
10
www.westexe.devon.sch.uk
MORE
SUCCESS IN THE
INTERMEDIATE MATHS CHALLENGE!
Over a hundred of our Year 9 and Year 10 students
took part in the Intermediate Maths Challenge on
February 5th. Traditionally students at West Exe have
always done very well in both the Junior and
Intermediate challenges and we hope that this year will
be no exception.
Last year a number of our students achieved bronze,
silver and gold certificates in both Maths Challenges
with one student achieving one of the highest scores in
the country! Catherine C in Year 9 was then invited to
participate in the Junior Mathematical Olympiad in
which she won a medal.
In March four of our brightest mathematicians in Year 8 and Year 9 will compete in the UKMT Team Maths
Challenge. The competition is held at Exmouth Community College and the students will compete against other
schools in the South West region.
The Junior Maths Challenge will take place on 30th April for Year 7 and 8 students.
Want to try a Maths Challenge question? Remember no calculators!
Last year the Tour de France started in Leeds on 5 July. The previous year, the total length of the Tour was
3404 km and the winner, Chris Froome, took a total time of 83 hours 56 minutes 40 seconds to cover this
distance. Which of these is closest to his average speed over the whole event?
A 32km/h
B 40 km/h
C 48 km/h
D 56 km/h
E 64 km/h .
Adele Dudley, Head of Maths
CONTACT DETAILS FOR PARENT/CARERS
Following the introduction of the School Gateway system (www.schoolgateway.com) at the beginning of the
Autumn term, parent/carers will receive letters, messages and requests for payment as an email or text via the
School Gateway. The School Gateway system operates using the email address or mobile number of the
parent/carer that you have registered with the school as having parental responsibility. Further guidance,
explaining who has parental responsibility, is available to read on the school website.
If you haven’t already done so, please can you register on the School Gateway as increasingly information will
be sent out in this way. Initial feedback from parents / carers has been extremely positive and we are seeing
the number of subscribers to the system increase on a daily basis; 62% of parents / carers have now activated
their login. If you would like to access the system but you are not sure how to go about it, please contact the
school and a member of staff will be able to provide support.
If you have not yet given the school your details, or you need to update your email or mobile number, please
email [email protected] or send a note in via Student Reception. If however you are now
receiving messages which you do not wish to receive, please contact us.
Ideally we would like to encourage all parents/carers to use the School Gateway. If you are
unable to access the system, please contact the school.
PROM TICKETS
Prom tickets this year will only be available through the School Gateway. If parents are not signed up and need
help, please contact the finance office.
Ideally we would like to encourage all parents/carers to use the School Gateway. If you are unable to access the
system, please contact the school.
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Bringing learning to life
VISIT
TO
MICHAEL CAINES RESTAURANT
On Tuesday 27th January, Miss Fowler took three Year 11 Food Technology/Catering students up to Michael
Caines restaurant for a chance to have a tour around the kitchens, chat to the chefs and find out a bit more
about how such a prestigious establishment manages to deliver consistently high standards day after day. The
boys were extremely well-mannered and responded very inquisitively to the experience, listening carefully to all
the imparted wisdom, and asking very thoughtful questions during the Q&A. We were even fortunate enough to
have lunch provided for us, which was even tastier having seen the effort that went into making it! It was
especially enlightening trying foods we’d eaten before, prepared in a range of exciting new ways! Overall, the
boys were a real credit to the school and we hope they find that the trip provided them with working insights
into their food-based GCSEs and prospective careers.
12
www.westexe.devon.sch.uk
ENGLISH
AS AN ADDITIONAL LANGUAGE
YOUNG INTERPRETERS
(EAL)
At the end of last term, a group of West Exe students
with English as an Additional Language (EAL) were
invited to Redhills Community Primary School by some of
their students who have trained to be ‘Young
Interpreters’. They attended their amazing Christmas
performance by the whole school, involving Christmas
stories and songs from around the world, and then
chatted with the Young Interpreters afterwards over
lemon squash and biscuits.
Being a Young Interpreter involves training sessions to
learn about interpreting, empathising with and
supporting others new to communicating in English. Students can take part if they speak other languages at
home, if they are bilingual, or if they don’t speak another language but are keen to learn about what it’s like for
students and adults learning English within their school or local community. They can then be on hand to use
their training and interpreter strategies to give support when needed.
Since their training last summer, Young Interpreters in Year 5 and Year 6 at Redhills have been regularly
supporting EAL students in Key Stage 1, often using their special interpreter packs, with stickers, flashcards and
mini whiteboards to support EAL students’ learning in lessons. They all had lots to say and share with our EAL
students, who were very impressed with their skills and knowledge. They are now even keener to train to be
Young Interpreters here at West Exe next term, having seen the difference it can make.
Nithya S, our head girl at West Exe, was particularly pleased to come along and be involved because it links well
with her initiative to promote wellbeing, awareness and inclusion within our school and community for students
with different international and language backgrounds: We are all global citizens!
Places are limited for training, but if you would like be a ‘Young Interpreter’ please ask your tutor to email Mrs
Hoinville with your name and she will get back to you.
Claire Hoinville, Lead: EAL Inclusion
SHOW MY HOMEWORK
If you are a parent and have not registered with Show my Homework, then you can register with Show My
Homework so you can see what homework your child has been set.
1.
First open the school website at: www.westexe.devon.sch.uk
2.
Click on the link at the bottom right of the home page:
3.
4.
Click Login, then click ‘Forgot Password’
Enter the email address you have registered with the school, then click ‘Reset Password’, then it will send
to your email address a password reset.
If your email address has changed, email [email protected] with details of the new email address.
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Bringing learning to life
THE
MOVING ESSAY
A truly collaborative approach is being used in the History department to develop students’ writing. It does what
it says on the tin. After the students have completed their first paragraph, they get up and move to another
student’s desk. They then read the paragraph, and then add a further paragraph, using connectives, and include
a new additional point.
The students move again, followed by the same process. The answer is multifactorial/causal, and students are
recognising the points and evidence that have been included.
The result:
“Really pleased with my essay.” Liam
“I understand the need for using new paragraphs for each new point!” Sophie
“I like the gel pens - it shows the different factors.” Grace.
Sheila Baker, Head of History
YEAR 7 HISTORIANS PRACTISING
ARCHITECT/DESIGN SKILLS
THEIR
Models ranged from cake to
jelly, to concrete, to wattle and
genuine daub. Overwhelmed by
the sheer spectacle of designs,
we have now selected the
winners, and Mrs Draisey can
have her Library back! The
Castle exhibition was on in the
Library until the end of the first
half term. A must for all up-and
-coming castle builders!
Sheila Baker, Head of History
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www.westexe.devon.sch.uk
FOODBANK
COLLECTIONS
West Exe School
THANK YOU … from
The December food collection
was a great success. We are
doing six food collections every
year at the end of each half
term. Thank you to everyone
who has made a donation.
Linda Brealey,
Lead Social & Emotional Health
EXETER FOODBANK
… to all the children, parents and staff who so
generously donated food towards the
Christmas collec on.
It all weighed in at a grand
274.9 kg
The food collected will make a very real
difference to many people’s lives in Exeter.
(December 2014)
WEST EXE
CHARITY
2015: GUIDE DOGS
Over the last couple of weeks students have selected Guide Dogs
as our charity for the next year. Now we have chosen a charity it
is time to start raising money. Our first target is to raise £300 to
be able to sponsor a class of puppies who are at the very
beginning of their training. Raising £1500 will give the students a
chance of naming our very own puppy. Guide Dogs in Exeter are
hoping to visit the school with a number of puppies and dogs, all
at different stages of their training. This will be a great
opportunity for students and staff to meet some of the future
Guide Dogs.
If you have any ideas on how we can raise money or would like
to organise something then please let us know.
Kate Fryett, Charity Co-ordinator
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Bringing learning to life
ENGLISH REVISION
FOR
YEAR 11
Trouble getting started? Sets 1 & 2 in Year 11 are studying for GCSE English Literature as well as GCSE English
Language and have lots of revision to get stuck into. Unfortunately, some seem to be just ‘stuck’!
So the English team (with the help of the lovely Music Department and ICT team) have come up with a video
to help Year 11 Lang/Lit-ers get going. The video and presentation will give top tips on where to start and how
to start, including such words of wisdom as ‘Turn off Facebook’ and ‘Is there an app for that?’ The video has
recently been shown in an assembly.
With a catchy theme tune and hopefully a giggle along the way, the Year 11s should feel confident about what
they will need to learn for the literature exams and how to make it stick.
Along with the other support offered by the team such as after school and Easter holiday revision sessions, and
many, many resources on our school website, we hope Year 11 will take advantage of everything that is
offered to them and work hard to achieve their potential in their exams in May and June.
So remember: ‘It’s all about the George, about the George and Lennie!’ @WestExeEnglish.
Ellie Cox-Davies, English Department
WEST EXE LIBRARY
NEWS
We are saying goodbye to our Library Manager,
Miss Ann Draisey, at half term. After three and a
half years at West Exe, she will be returning to
the public library as a Library Supervisor. She
wishes everyone at West Exe the best for the
future, and will especially miss the students. Miss
Draisey expresses her thanks to Miss Coombes
and the Student Librarians for being such great
Library colleagues! A new Library Manager will be
appointed in the near future.
“It has been a pleasure working with Ann over
the last two and a half years and I have enjoyed
all the many things we have worked on together.
I am really going to miss working with her every
day, as will the Student Librarians, but we wish
her all the best in her new role as Library
Supervisor in the public library.”
Emma Coombes, Library Assistant
16
www.westexe.devon.sch.uk
HOW
TO HELP YOUR CHILD DO WELL IN CLASS
Lots of research has been published recently about the impact of technology on children, including a lack of
sustained focus and concentration, tiredness, inability to wind down at bed time etc. Below are some tips you
can follow to help your child in class.

Ensure all gadgets are switched off at least
one hour before bed.

Make sure gadgets like phones, tablets and
laptops are charging in a room other than
your child’s bedroom. They could be disturbed
by the glow or tempted to fire them up if a
message alert goes off.

Make a deal with your child – ‘when you have
done all your homework, you can spend x
amount of time on your gadget’.

Use access to technology as an incentive or
sanction as needed.

Switch off access to the internet (at the
router) at an appropriate time (of course this
may affect your enjoyment!). This one
definitely works if you want to get them down
for dinner!
READING MAKES YOU HAPPY
Reading makes you happy; reading makes you a better person;
reading gives you a greater understanding of the world around you.
What’s more, reading makes you more intelligent which means that
you will find school an easier and better experience.
Now you may not think that you need to be a better person, you may
not even care about the world around you, but surely you want to be
happier.
Well, follow this item in the newsletter every half term and it will help
you on the path to happiness.
To help to spread the happiness, I am going to write a regular piece
for the school newsletter on the pleasure of reading. Every edition I
will write about a book that has been recommended by either staff or
students.
So for those of you out there
who don’t like reading, get
ready: your world is about to
change in a big, big way!
I thought that for this
newsletter we can start with
something a bit different: From
now on for those reluctant readers out there, the English department will
have a supply of classic Marvel comics. The written word accompanied
by brilliant and vivid illustrations is a great way to start or continue your
reading adventure.
Sarah Fisher, Head of English
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Bringing learning to life
YEAR 10 BUSINESS COMPUTING
AND
ENTERPRISE
Hanging Around
Thanks to access to £10,000 Enterprise Education Funding from Devon County Council our Year 10 Business
and Enterprise students have had a very busy half term. A team-building session at Clip’n’Climb on January 23rd
helped them bond as a group and challenge their fears. Many of the group had never climbed before and
admitted they were pretty terrified at the thought of climbing, others were confident and took to the course like
a duck to water. After the first fifteen minutes getting to know the course all the boys were shinning up and
down like monkeys and you could see the sense of achievement on their faces.
Shabby Chic Workshops
‘Not too shabby’ is our new school business that will make the boys millionaires – or so we hope! They visited
the Exeter Recycling Centre and brought various pieces of furniture back to school. The boys were spotted on
Alphington Road carrying a fireplace, a huge sideboard and an assortment of tables and chairs back to school –
a sight to behold.
We’ve had two workshops from Lynne Saunders owner of PepperWhite Vintage in North Street. Lynne taught
the boys how to prepare, paint and apply finishing techniques to their pieces of furniture. We have already sold
a coffee table - thanks Mrs G, and three other pieces have been placed on reserve for customers. Watch this
space for details of our finished pieces and how you can buy them.
18
www.westexe.devon.sch.uk
Visit from Governor and local
entrepreneur – Adam Stone
To fulfil one of the business units
of the course, the boys have been
researching entrepreneurs. Local
businessman and school governor
Adam Stone, CEO of Rokk Media,
came to talk to the boys and share
his experience in business.
The boys worked together to
compile a list of questions and
grilled Adam on Friday 6th Feb,
they asked him all sorts of probing
questions and even asked his
advice on making a success of Not
too Shabby. Watch out Alan
Sugar, Year 10 are the next big
thing in business.
Nora McNaughton, BCE department
19
Bringing learning to life
WINTER ABILITY GAMES, 2015
On Friday 30th January thirty two West Exe students, from across both key stages, attended the Winter Ability
Games in Plymouth at the Life Centre. Our pupils took part in table cricket, indoor tennis and indoor rowing
competitions.
Our pupils had a brilliant day and participated in the events to the best of their ability. Students won at least
one match or round of their event which was a good achievement.
Kellie White, PE Department
PE GIFTED AND TALENTED STUDENTS
“ARE IN THE ZONE!!!”
Twenty two Gifted and Talented sports students have
recently been attending a sport psychology workshop
every Monday 3.15-4.00 with Miss West.
They have started looking at the importance of sport
psychology and how this impacts the sport they play
and themselves as individuals. So far they have
identified the different physical and mental demands in
their sports, completed their own performance profiles
and started to look at using visualisation to improve
performance.
Sport psychology is used to empower athletes,
coaches and even referees, to succeed in performance
(whatever this may look like). It is most commonly
known to address mental skills such as imagery,
concentration, relaxation etc. but is less known for its
role in facilitating independence and using a more
holistic approach. Counselling, mainstream psychology
and clinical psychology are important aspects for developing a sport psychologist’s approach to supporting
individuals and teams.
Some of the students are receiving group and possibly 1:1 support to help them to achieve their goals and
maximise their performance.
Many thanks on behalf of the PE Department to Miss West who has organised and delivered these session. We
look forward to hearing about our sporting elite’s future success stories.
Sarah Blackburn, PE Department
20
www.westexe.devon.sch.uk
COMPUTERS 4 AFRICA (C4A)
APPEAL NOW AT
WEST EXE
Computers 4 Africa (www.computers4africa.org.uk) is a UK based charity who recondition any IT equipment less
than eight years old and deliver it for reuse in schools and colleges in Africa. We are proud to now be a
collection point for the local area.
A single recycled PC or recycled laptop can impact 24
children’s lives during its first year, offering new hope
to break out of the poverty cycle. Your old working IT
kit can make this difference. If you are upgrading your
home computer C4A can help, by providing an ethical
and economical solution to IT disposal. The IT
equipment is refurbished and securely data-wiped
before being sent out to African schools, colleges and
community projects.
Our school campaign got off to a great start with a
delivery of thirty six flat screen monitors donated by
Rob French, a Technology Manager at local IT firm
Cosmic. They have been replacing computer
equipment at Citizens Advice Bureaus across Devon and he was only too happy to see the old equipment
avoiding landfill. The morning they arrived at school, three of our Green Team members helped transfer the
monitors into secure storage. We hope these will be put into good use in Africa soon.
Can you help?
If you have old working IT equipment (laptops, monitors, printers and desktop computer workstations) you
would like to donate to this worthy cause, please drop your items into Main Reception during school hours.
Please allow time to complete a short form with your contact details so that you can be sent your data
destruction certificate.
Hand in old computers to Main Reception and help fulfil a child’s dream!
Win 20 ePraise points for every item you donate!
Written by Kerry S, Cindy L and Molly S, Green Team Members
SUBJECT EVENINGS DONE, AND SUBJECT EVENINGS
COME: BECAUSE WORKING TOGETHER WORKS!
TO
The school has now completed the first set of Subject Evenings for all year groups, and we want to thank
parents for record-breaking levels of attendance to these. Altogether, attendance at Subject Evening 1 averaged
an amazing 79.6%, varying from 93% (Year 7) down to 73% (Year8).
Subject Evenings are critically important opportunities for teachers, parents and pupils to work together in
celebrating strengths and identifying ways ahead to aid learning, progress and achievement. We realise the
commitment attending them requires, and hope very much that the second of these events for each year see
every parent/ carer attending to review progress since the last evening. The second evening is not an
alternative to the first, and is essential to update and identify new targets to take your child into the next school
year; as such, they are just as essential as the first event.
The table below shows the dates for the next subject evening, and we look forward to seeing you all.
Mr Hann, Acting Deputy Headteacher
ATTENDANCE AT SUBJECT EVENING ONE
YEAR 7
YEAR 8
YEAR 9
YEAR 10
YEAR 11
93%
73%
78%
78%
76%
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY: SUBJECT EVENING TWO
YEAR 7
YEAR 8
th
th
Tuesday 5 May
Thursday 26 March
YEAR 9
th
YEAR 10
Tuesday 17 March
21
th
Tuesday 14 March
YEAR 11
Thursday 5th March
Bringing learning to life
NO
TIME TO ‘WASTE’!
Last week we completed a
Waste Audit with help from
James and Dee from the
Recycling Team at Devon
County Council. We gathered a
whole day’s rubbish and
recycling and spread it all out
on the hall floor so that we
could separate it into different
piles. It was a dirty job but we
really enjoyed it! We
categorised and weighed each
mound and recorded the data
so that we knew what types of
waste we generate.
Straight away we found that
we had a lot of waste paper
and plastic drinks bottles.
James and Dee are going to
send us a report soon with
recommendations on ways to
make our recycling even
better. This might include creating new signs so people know what to recycle and new recycling bins for use
around the school.
Aaron L, Green Team Member
THE REACH ACADEMY
A large group of our most academically able students
from Years 10 and 11 were given a great opportunity
last week to visit Exeter College and hear about their
initiative for Gifted and Talented students, the Reach
Academy. Organised by G&T Coordinator Julie
Poynsenby and attended by Ann Draisey and Paul
Fidler, the trip was a great and thorough taste of the
variety of experience that can be gained at the
college. We were treated to beginner’s Italian, Theory
of Knowledge and some advanced Maths and Science.
The students learnt all about the Reach Academy thanks to Dr Martin Gilbert, who explained that the
programme offers unique extra-curricular opportunities to the most highly academic and motivated students
such as inspirational speakers, lots of trips and residentials and the chance to work on serious projects in
collaboration with sponsors at the Met Office. Whilst being fun and inspiring, this is all aimed at giving students
the extra experience to help them get into the country’s top universities.
The programme is already highly successful and places are hotly contested. To find out more see these
websites:
http://www.exe-coll.ac.uk/1618/Academies/Reach.aspx
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Reach-Academy-Exeter-College/88408283685
The students left enthused about college and several began to fill out their Reach Academy application forms
then and there! Good luck to all applicants and thanks to Exeter College for providing such a great programme
for the day.
Ann Draisey, Library Manager
22
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PARENT & PUPIL SURVEY: BECAUSE YOUR VOICE
REALLY COUNTS!
Parents attending this year’s subject evenings have been offered an opportunity to complete a brief online
survey that enables you to give the school feedback on ten key areas of our provision. This is a genuinely
important and helpful survey, partly because it is very similar to the questionnaire used during Ofsted
inspections, and partly because your feedback is used to inform our development planning.
We’re delighted with the feedback received so far – the average of responses from the five subject evenings is
tabled below - but we never rest in our drive for constant improvement. We pay attention to any concerns
raised, and read every comment submitted. We’d like to thank parents for participating in the survey, and invite
you to continue doing so during each subject evening so that we can use your feedback in our ongoing work to
continue making West Exe a school that always seeks to give the best learning experience for every one of our
pupils.
Tim Hann, Acting Deputy Headteacher
Statement
Strongly
Agree
Agree
Unsure
Disagree
Strongly
Disagree
Overall, my child feels safe and happy here at West Exe
44%
50%
4%
1%
1%
West Exe makes sure pupils are generally well behaved
29%
61%
8%
2%
0%
My child is well taught by teachers here at West Exe
39%
55%
4%
2%
0%
My child receives suitable amounts and types of homework
36%
37%
19%
6%
2%
I know my child’s targets and how well they are progressing
42%
56%
2%
0%
0%
I get opportunities to learn how to support my child’s progress
36%
40%
18%
6%
0%
West Exe has a good range of opportunities beyond the classroom
36%
48%
13%
2%
1%
Reported concerns have been dealt with promptly & effectively
39%
47%
10%
2%
2%
West Exe School seems well led, organised and managed
41%
51%
6%
2%
0%
I would recommend West Exe to another parent
35%
55%
8%
2%
0%
HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL DAY
During the last week of January, students reflected on the importance of Holocaust Memorial Day, by
participating in a series of assemblies.
The main message reiterated philosopher Edmund Burke’s poignant words that “all that is necessary for the
triumph of evil is that good men do nothing.”
Silence is collaboration. Being kind, and challenging unkind behaviours is the fundamental responsibility we at
West Exe should endorse.
We are immensely privileged to have as our West Exe friends (and Holocaust survivors), Joanna, Ladilaus, and
Harry, who have spoken to us of the importance of speaking out.
Sheila Baker, Head of History
23
Bringing learning to life
NEWS
FROM THE INCLUSION
HUB
This term we have been running several programmes in the Inclusion Hub including a
Self-Esteem Building programme and an Anger Management programme. Students
have seen the benefits of these programmes and have seen improvements in behaviour
and learning. One student said, “I have learnt some really good ideas to do when I start
to get frustrated or angry. Changing my breathing and counting down from ten
backwards helps me calm down.” Should you wish to refer your child for either
programme, please contact Helen Towler-Williams via the school website.
Helen Towler-Williams, Director of Inclusion
INTERNET SAFETY ADVICE -
TIPS FOR PARENTS
This is the first in a series of tips for parents, aimed at helping you and your children stay safe online.
1. Agree with your child rules for Internet use in your home
Try to reach an agreement with your child on the guidelines which
apply to Internet use in your household. Here are some tips to get
started:

Discuss when and for how long it is acceptable for your child to
use the Internet

Agree how to treat personal information (name, address,
telephone, e-mail)

Discuss how to behave towards others when gaming, chatting,
e-mailing or messaging

Agree what type of sites and activities are OK or not OK in your
family
2. Encourage your child to be careful when disclosing personal information
It is important to be aware that many web pages made for children ask them for personal information in order
to access personalised content. Being conscious of when and where it is all right to reveal personal information
is vital. A simple rule for children should be that the child should never give out their name, phone number or
photo.
Older teenagers using social networking sites like Facebook should be selective about what personal information
and photos they post to online spaces. Once material is online you can no longer control who sees it or how it is
used.
Teach your social networking teenagers how to use and apply the privacy and security settings of the site. All
responsible sites have a Safety Centre and a Block and Reporting system. Learn together with your teen how to
use the safety and security settings of the site.
Head of Department Julie Poynsenby is a trained 'CEOP Ambassador' and 'Parenting in
the Digital Age' facilitator. Please do make contact if you want further advice in all
aspects of Internet Safety and Digital Parenting.
LOST PROPERTY
Please be aware that we already have a large number of lost property items.
These items have no names in them so cannot be returned to students. If your
son/daughter has lost anything since returning to school in January please ask
them to come to student reception to check. Alternately, you may also like to
come in and check for your child’s lost items – student reception is open
between 8.30 am – 3.15 pm daily.
Any items not claimed by the end of the first week after half term (27th Feb)
will be disposed of.
Sam Macmartin, Student Receptionist
24
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PRIMARY GYM COMPETITION
On the 30th January, the first Primary gym competition took place at West Exe School. There were sixteen
competitors from Years 3-6 who had to perform a floor routine and two vaults. There were nine judges from our
school who were responsible for marking both the vaults and floor routines. They also handed out the medals to
the winners. I found the experience enjoyable but felt under pressure in the competition to make decisions. I
feel it has helped me understand what the judges are looking for and will help me in my own performance. The
primary students really enjoyed the opportunity to compete and the whole experience was a great success.
Hopefully it can become an annual event!
Mrs Davies and Miss West also wish the West Exe School gym team the best of luck for their Devon schools
Competition on Sunday 8th Feb.
Maria P, 8GLG
DEVON SCHOOLS GYMNASTICS FLOOR
COMPETITION
AND
VAULT
On Sunday 8th February West Exe School
entered the annual Devon Schools Floor and
Vault Competition at Exeter Gym club. Maria
P, Ellie M, Holly S and Lilly D represented the
school in this highly competitive and
prestigious event, performing an individual
floor routine plus two vaults. The team score
is taken from the four team members over
both events. Lilly D performed an amazing
floor routine scoring 15.05. Unfortunately
Holly had a technical fault with her music but
still scored 14.75 and Ellie and Maria
performed consistently, setting the team up
well for the next round. On vault all girls
secured solid vaults but I have to say Holly's
vaults were outstanding scoring 15.25. The
girls finished third overall in the team event,
losing out only to St Luke's Gymnastics
Academy who took first and second place.
Furthermore Holly S gained 3rd place in the individual competition against very tough opposition. Considering
this is only our second year in this event this shows great promise for the future.
We will now be practising hard for the regional round and wish them luck at the next stages.
Well done from Mrs Davies and Mrs West
25
Bringing learning to life
PRIMARY SKILLS ACADEMY/PRIMARY LIAISON
Redhills Year 5s recently spent an enjoyable morning
making individual frittatas in the food technology
rooms at West Exe School . Following the new School
Food Plan Mrs Quick (Food teacher) works with all
the feeder Year 5s allowing them access to the
school rooms and inspiring them with new practical
skills and new food tastes.
West Exe School is also offering training for local primary
school staff to help them to meet the requirements of the new
National Curriculum and School Food Plan. All primary schools
are now required to teach practical cookery and a healthy
lifestyle to children. In conjunction with Food Teacher Centre
Associates and LCP training, West Exe Technology teacher
Sarah Quick is running courses to help primary staff develop
practical cookery teaching skills to manage group cooking
activities, discover new ideas to try with their classes, and
learn how to set up their classroom for practical work with
health and safety risk assessments. She has already worked
with staff from Exeter Learning Trust members St Thomas,
Redhills, Ide, and Bowhill Primary Schools.
The next course is on 20th March 2015 in Exeter. If you are
interested in the course or would like advice please contact Sarah Quick at West Exe School:
[email protected].
STEM PROJECT
FOR THE
BIG BANG
AND
TEEN
AWARDS
‘Can insects feed the world in 2050?’
Eight very excited Year 8s part of the School’s Think Tank for Gifted and Talented students met
for the first time last week.
Over the next two months they intend to investigate the question ‘Can insects feed the world in
2050?’. Future meetings will include research, practical cookery and (much to the teachers
Sarah Quick, Food Technology Teacher
horror) a cricket farm.
HANDBALL
OPPORTUNITIES AT
WEST EXE SCHOOL
We are pleased to announce that West Exe is working with Devon Handball to promote and develop handball in
the local area. Currently we offer two sessions for students on a Monday Years 6, 7 and 8 which currently runs
from 3.15 – 4.15 and Years 9, 10 and 11 from 4.15 – 5.00pm. These sessions will swap over after the February
half term. There is also an adult club which is open to all new players on Thursday evening. We would like to
invite all new players along to any of these sessions.
Devon coaches are on hand to help you learn about the game and develop your skills.
The PE curriculum has been supporting this venture and some of our players have the potential to progress
further in the sport. We have a number of important dates coming up.
Students are invited to come to the Devon Handball Trials for selection to the Devon squad which will be held at
West Exe (Sports Hall):
Monday March 2nd - U13 Devon Handball Trial - 4.15-5.00pm
Wednesday March 11th -U15 National Schools Handball SW
Regional Finals at Kingsley School, Bideford – leave early –
3.00pm.
Thursday March 19th – U13 Devon Schools Games at Paignton
Academy – all day
Chris Davies, Head of PE
26
www.westexe.devon.sch.uk
WEST EXE
AMNESTY CAMPAIGNING
Over the past few months, our Amnesty International group has been raising funds.
The group is for young people who want to encourage a welcoming atmosphere within both our local community
and further afield. The group has held meetings each Wednesday lunchtime during the term since it started last
year. During these meetings we discuss which causes we can raise money and/or awareness for, and how. With
all members being very dedicated and passionate (alongside our other supervisors) the club has very quickly
become a large part of the school community.
During the past few months we have supported quite a few different causes such as the ‘Free Miriam’ petitions
combating homophobia, and raising money for the Exeter Foodbank. To quickly raise awareness for the ‘Free
Miriam’ campaign we began to sell doughnuts to our school peers every Thursday break time, we invited
everyone who donated to sign the petition as well as those who did not spend any money. All profits from these
fund raisers are spent on supporting the sale or donated. The petitions during the sale as well as a signature
drive run by the Amnesty students in Year 10, have helped us raise hundreds of signatures over a matter of
weeks.
During the weeks leading up to Christmas our Amnesty group raised money for the Exeter Foodbank, since it
seemed very popular with the rest of the student body we did this by donating all of the money raised in the
doughnut sale to the charity. Our school also had a food drive and managed to collect 274.9kg of food, which
helped the charity a lot, especially in the busy period before Christmas.
Whilst raising money for the Exeter Foodbank the Amnesty group decided the bullying is all too common and
that we wished to crack down on it. Homophobic slurs are becoming all too common in modern society and the
use of words associated with LGBT people as derogatory language seemed unacceptable to all of the members
of the group. To try and combat this we have written letters to the school governors, and organised assemblies
for pupils in our school and the local primary schools. We were inspired by the Stonewall campaign “Gay, let’s
get the meaning straight” and are, as of 2015; working hard to crack down on the use of homophobic language.
Yasmin W, Chair of West Exe Amnesty group
27
Bringing learning to life
28
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29
Bringing learning to life
OPTIONS 2015 - REMINDER
Thank you to all the parents and carers who were able to attend the Options Evening and Careers Fair on
Tuesday 27th January. Over five hundred people attended the event, a massive 84% of the cohort which shows
real dedication to making the best possible choices for the future of your child. Numerous employers, further
education colleges, universities, advisors and teaching staff were all on hand to give advice and guidance.
If you are a Parent or Carer of a Year 9 pupil, please make sure a completed online options form is
submitted via the link on the school website by Monday 2nd March.
More information, including a comprehensive Options Pathways Booklet, can be found on our school website by
clicking on the Options tab at the top of the web page.
Kevin Hadley, Acting Deputy Headteacher 30
www.westexe.devon.sch.uk
LEARNING
FROM OUR NEW
SPANISH
FRIENDS
We have been very lucky to have welcomed two different groups of students from Spain to study at West Exe
over the last few months.
In November we welcomed thirty three students from Vigo in Galicia. They were buddied with students in Years 9
and 10 and attended lessons for three weeks. In addition to this, they had opportunities to play sport, cook lunch
for their buddies, have a music lesson and to undertake project work in media. They were very impressed with
our school facilities, our lessons and our students.
On 2nd February we welcomed ten students from St Paul’s school in Barcelona. They were paired up with
students in Year 8 and attended lessons with them. On Tuesday after school they enjoyed joining the table tennis
club and on Wednesday they played football against Year 7 boys. Our Year 8s were very sad to see them go but
will hopefully keep in touch with them.
Thanks to all of the staff and students who made these visits such an enjoyable and educational opportunity. We
look forward to receiving more Spanish students in the future.
Lisa Cooper, Assistant Head of Department- Spanish 31
Bringing learning to life
DIARY
DATES FOR
Week of 2nd March Year 10 exams week
Thursday 5th March 9.30-10.30 am Headteacher coffee
morning with Mr Jolley, Acting Headteacher
Thursday 5th March 4.00-7.00 pm Year 11 parents’ evening
Tuesday 17th March 4.00-7.00 pm Year 9 parents’ evening
Week of Thursday 19th March Year 7 tracking 2
Week of 23rd March GCSE and AS Art exams
TERM
DATES
SPRING
TERM
Week of 23rd March Charity week
Tuesday 24th March 7.00 pm Music concert
Week of Wednesday 25th March Year 10 tracking 2
Thursday 26th March 4.00-7.00 pm Year 8 parents’ evening
Friday 27th March West Exe Charity day
Friday 27th March Last day of term Day ends at usual
time of 3.00 pm
2014-15 & 2015-16
TERM DATES 2014-15
TERM DATES 2015-16
Spring Term
Autumn Term
Term commences: Tuesday 6th January 2015
Half Term: Monday 16th – Friday 20th February 2015 inclusive
Last day of term: Friday 27th March 2015
Term commences: Monday 7th September 2015
Half Term: Monday 26th – Friday 30th October 2015 inc
Friday 27th November 2015 Staff training day
Last day of term: Friday 18th December 2015
Summer Term
Spring Term
Term commences: Tuesday 14th April 2015
May Day Holiday: Monday 4th May 2015
Half Term: Monday 25th– Friday 29th May 2015 inclusive
Last day of term: Tuesday 21st July 2015
Term commences: Tuesday 5th January 2016
Half Term: Monday 15th – Friday 19th February 2016 inc
Last day of term: Thursday 24th March 2016
Summer Term
Term commences: Tuesday 12th April 2016
May Day Holiday: Monday 2nd May 2016
Half Term: Monday 30th May– Friday 3rd June 2016 inc
Last day of term: Friday 22nd July 2016
Service children
Please email us if your child/children has/have a parent or parents who are Service personnel currently serving in regular HM Forces
military units of all forces, or in the Armed Forces of another nation and stationed in England, and exercising parental care/
responsibility.
This can be done by email to [email protected], or via the contact page on the school website. Please state your
child’s name, year and tutor group. If you don’t have an email account, can you please advise us in writing, and ask your child to
hand the note in to Student Services Reception?
Moved house? New mobile no.? New email?
Please let us know if any of your contact details change. This can be done by email to [email protected] or via
the contact page on the school website. Please state your child’s name, year and tutor group, as well as the amended details. If you
don’t have an email account please let me know of any changes in writing and ask your child to hand the note in to Student RecepSarah Aldridge, Information Services
tion.
PARENTS' EVENINGS 2014-5
Autumn 2014
Year 7
Year 8
Year 9
Year 10
Year 11
SPT Evening
Spring 2015
Summer 2015
Subject Evening
Wed 17 Sept
Thurs 5 February
Subject Evening
Exams weeks
Tues 5 May
15 & 22 June
SPT Evening
Subject Evening
Wed 17 Sept
Tues 9 December
SPT Evening
Subject Evening
Options evening
Wed 17 Sept
Thurs 27 November
Tues 27 January
Tues 17 March
Subject Evening
Exams week
Subject Evening
Thurs 14 May
SPT Evening
Wed 17 Sept
Subject Evening
Exams weeks
Thurs 26 March
15 & 22 June
Subject Evening
Exams weeks
Tue 20 January
2 March
SPT Evening
Subject Evening
Autumn 2014
Subject Evening
Wed 17 Sept
Tues 11 November
Mock exams week
Thurs 5 March
15 & 22 June
1 December
32
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