This document provides a summary of information for parents about Kelvinside Academy Senior School. It includes contact details for the school, staff listings, details about the school day and calendar, policies on attendance, and information about extracurricular activities and support systems. The handbook is intended to give parents most of the key information needed about the daily operations and procedures of the senior school.

1. Senior School
Parents’ Handbook
Session 2013-2014

2. CONTENTS
Section Description
1 Rector’s Welcome
2 Contacting the School
3 Aims of the School
4 Senior School Staff
5 Non-Teaching/Support Staff
6 Kelvinside Academy War Memorial Trust and Governors
7 Kelvinside Academy Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
8 Kelvinside Academical Club
9 Session Dates
10 The School Day
11 Registration, Lateness, Absence, and Requests for Leave of
Absence
12 Lunch Arrangements
13 Security
14 First Aid and Medical Services
15 Road Safety
16 Lost Property, Lockers, Losses
17 Insurance (Personal Accident)
18 Communication
19 Change of Address, Telephone Numbers, Email, Medical Details etc
20 Curriculum
21 Assessment
22 Examination Presentation Policy and Withdrawal from Courses
23 Reporting, Profiling System and Higher NAB Tracking
24 Homework
25 Pastoral Care and Pupil Support
26 The Library
27 Games, CCF and Extra-Curricular Activities, Musical Instrument
Tuition and Activities Week
28 Colours, Honours, Merit Awards and Prizes
29 Discipline – Positive Measures, Sanctions, School Rules
30 School Appointments
31 Dress Code
32 Sixth Year, The Common Room and Leadership Programme
33 Policies
34 Confidentiality
35 Withdrawals
36 Data Protection
37 In Conclusion.....
38 Index

3. 1. Rector’s Welcome
Dear Parent
Welcome to the 2013-2014 edition of the Kelvinside Academy
Parents’ Handbook. I hope this will provide you with most of the
information you need to know about the day to day operation of the
school such as session dates, the school day, staff names and who
to contact if you have a concern. We have also tried to include as
much relevant information as possible on the curriculum, pastoral
care, school rules and policies which we hope you will find useful.
The booklet focuses on all aspects of your child’s education and
contains what we believe parents wish to know; it is intended that it
will evolve over time as parents give us feedback. Not everything
can be included in a booklet like this, so we hope that you will use
it in conjunction with the additional information on our website.
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions and
also let us know if you have additional suggestions for inclusion in
the Handbook. Finally, I am available to speak to parents, either on
the telephone or in person, if you have any concern about your
child’s education.
Yours sincerely
Robert Karling MA MBA
Rector
1

4. Contacting the School
Kelvinside Academy
33 Kirklee Road
Glasgow
G12 0SW
Telephone: 0141 357 3376
Fax: 0141 357 5401
Email: rector@kelvinsideacademy.org.uk
Web site: www.kelvinsideacademy.org.uk
When contacting the school:
• To report an absence on the automated absence line, please dial 1
• For Admissions enquiries, Marketing and Development, please dial 2
• For Finance and the Bursar's Office, please dial 3
• For Junior School, including the Head of Junior School, please dial 4
• For Senior School, including the Rector and general enquiries,
please dial 5.
• To contact the school about a pastoral matter please contact the
relevant House staff as detailed in Section 18 (Communication).
• To contact the school about an academic matter please contact
the Director of Studies, Mr N Fischbacher either by telephone
(Senior School, Option 5) or via email at:
n.fischbacher@kelvinsideacademy.org.uk
• To contact the school about a disciplinary matter please contact
the Deputy Rector, Mr A Gilliland either by telephone (Senior
School, Option 5) or via email at:
a.gilliland@kelvinsideacademy.org.uk
Website
Increasingly, the KA website is a useful source of information.
Updated frequently, it is fast becoming the first port of call when
needing to know about the latest events and also routine
matters.
2

5. 3. Aims of the School
The philosophy of Kelvinside Academy is encapsulated in its motto
“AIEN APIΣTEYEIN” which means “ever to be the best”. The
School’s aim is to help each boy and girl to be and to do their best in
every aspect of his or her life.
Through inspiring and dedicated teaching, each individual student
will be encouraged to achieve the best academic qualifications he or
she can and, in doing so, be fully prepared for higher education and
the workplace. Students at KA will learn to think for themselves, be
creative and imaginative and to search for knowledge and truth with
inquisitive open minds.
Working with parents, the responsibility of every member of staff is
to assist pupils to develop self–awareness and confidence within an
inclusive and caring school community. Embracing opportunities for
leadership and team work, our young people will be enterprising,
resilient and adaptable to a world of rapid change.
Kelvinside Academy will support its young people to lead rich and
fulfilling lives, valuing freedom, democracy and justice. In achieving
the best they can be, Kelvinside students will learn to act with
personal integrity and courage whilst showing compassion, courtesy
and concern for others in all they do.
4. Senior School Staff
Rector - Mr R J Karling
Deputy Rector - Mr A J Gilliland
Director of Studies/Head of S5 - Mr N Fischbacher
Head of Digital Learning - Mrs J Maclean
Head of Support for Learning - Miss L Jackson
Head of Guidance - Mr R W J Moir
House Staff Buchanan: Miss S Crichton
Colquhoun: Miss K Leckie
MacGregor: Mrs L FitzGerald
Stewart: Mr R Moir
3

6. Head of Sixth Year - Mr B Parham
Leadership Coordinator - Miss K Leckie
Enterprise Coordinator - Mrs J Shields
Faculty of Language (English, Modern Languages)
Mr J Gilius (Head of Faculty)
Mr S Klimowicz (Deputy Head of Faculty)
Mrs G T Ali
Miss J Bonnyman
Mrs H Jephson
Mrs A Mullan
Miss C Alonso-Bartol/Miss L Preston
Mrs M Prince
Mrs A H M Schneeberger
Faculty of Maths, Science and Technology (Maths, Physics,
Chemistry, Biology, Computing)
Mr JIO Cuthbertson (Head of Faculty)
Mrs D Macgregor (Deputy Head of Faculty)
Mr A G Mulholland (Deputy Head of Faculty)
Miss L Bruce
Mr S H Connor
Mr N Fischbacher
Mrs L C FitzGerald
Mr B FitzGerald
Mr G Guile
Miss K Leckie
Mr I Nicholson
Mr B Parham
4

7. Faculty of Social and Business Studies (History, Geography,
Modern Studies, Business Subjects, Religious Education)
Mrs J Clark (Head of Faculty)
Mr J Calder (Deputy Head of Faculty)
Mr A J Gilliland
Mrs J Hannah
Mrs N Mathews
Mrs B Meikle
M r N Reid
Mrs J Shields
Mr C Simpson
Faculty of Expressive Arts (Art & Design, Music, Drama)
Mrs J Cunningham (Head of Faculty/Director of Music)
Mrs J Hardy (Deputy Head of Faculty)
Miss S Crichton
Mrs A Gallie
Mrs F Whittle
Faculty of PE, Games & Extra-Curricular (Games, PE, Outdoor
Education, Extra-Curricular)
Mr DJ Wilson (Head of Faculty/Director of Games)
Miss F Donald
Mr C J Lawson
Mr M McAlister
Mr R W J Moir
Teachers of Senior Prep
Mrs F Kennedy
Mrs J Rynn
Support for Learning (SfL)
Miss L Jackson (Head of Department)
Mrs N Anderson
Mrs B Deutsch
5

8. Timetabler - Mrs F Whittle
E1 Co-ordinator - Mr B FitzGerald
IT Network Manager - Mr J Paterson
SQA Coordinator - Mrs L Mathie
Librarians
Ms S Tipping
Ms S McLay
Duke of Edinburgh Award Coordinator - Mr N Reid
5. Non-Teaching/Support Staff
Bursar - Mr D Pocock
Assistant Bursar - Mrs M Bennett
Finance Officer - Mrs E Cummings
Finance Assistant - Mrs J Arthurs
Director of Admissions and Communications - Mrs K Bottomley
Development Manager - Mrs E Solman
Marketing Officers - Mrs C Howison/Mrs L Young
PA to the Rector - Miss A-M Cormack
School Receptionist/Secretary - Mrs L Mathie/Mrs P Lindsay
Bursar’s PA - Mrs L Andonovic
Junior School Secretary - Mrs I Lindsay
School Nurse - Mrs L MacDonald
IT Network Manager - Mr J Paterson
IT Technician - Mr E Longmore
Laboratory Technician - Mrs P McArthur
CCF School Staff Instructor - Mr M McAlister
Head Janitor - Mr D Anderson
Assistant Janitor - Mr D Simpson
Head Groundsman - Mr D Boyd
Assistant Groundsman - Mr B Fenton
Road Crossing Patrol Staff - Mr A Craig, Mr P Macneil
6

9. 6. Kelvinside Academy War Memorial Trust
Kelvinside Academy was founded in 1878 and has long been a
leading independent school in the West of Scotland. For 120 years it
was a boys only school. It became co-educational in 1998.
The Trust is a company limited by guarantee with recognised
charitable status. The Governors are the directors of the
company. Governors are selected according to skills and
experience where these are deemed beneficial to the School.
Board of Governors
Mr N Fyfe (Chairman)
Mr C Neill, BA (ex-Officio)
Mr K Cairnduff
Professor W Cushley, BSc PhD FSB
Mr W A Dalziel
Mrs E M Davis, BA (Hons) PGCE
Mr C J MacKenzie, LLB, DIP LP, NP
Mrs A McDowall, LLB (Hons), Dip LP
Mr N J McNeill, CA
Mr C Rutherford, FCIBS, MBA
Mrs J Rowand, FIRP
7. Kelvinside Academy Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
The Kelvinside Academy Parent Teacher Association (the PTA) is a
vital part of the life of the school community. Its aims are to promote
friendship among the parent body at Kelvinside Academy and to
raise funds for the school. Fundraising provides resources which
benefit the children at KA and the PTA also sponsors events which
enrich the life of the school.
One of the main tasks of the PTA is supporting the wide range of
social activities arranged for pupils, from ceilidhs and tuck shops to
barbecues and the School Sports Days. These events have a long
history and without the input of the PTA they simply could not take
place as effectively. Another very important activity central to all the
PTA’s work is fundraising. A portion of the money raised by events
organised by the PTA goes into school funds either to support
existing fund-raising activities, such as the recent refurbishment of
Balgray, or more directly to support classroom activities though a
system of small grants.
7

10. The PTA welcomes and values the involvement of parents in all or
any of its activities and events. Any parent can consider themselves
a member of the PTA because no one has to apply, be elected or
make a regular commitment in order to have something of value to
offer. The committee meets approximately once a month for about
an hour to discuss a previously circulated agenda. Meetings are
open for any parent to attend at any time and parents do not have to
attend meetings regularly to become involved in the PTA’s work. As
far as possible, each year group has a representative. This is a
parent who has volunteered to act as a contact point and to
encourage people to help at events requiring a parent presence,
such as discos, sports days and school concerts. A tea/coffee
rendezvous is hosted in the Mall every Friday for parents and
children before pick up, which is very sociable and an ideal
opportunity to meet other parents.
Meetings are generally attended by the Rector, the Head of Junior
School and representatives of the teaching staff; and for the PTA,
the Chair and/or the Vice Chair, the Secretary and Treasurer and
any committee members or interested parents. Issues to be
discussed are either put on the agenda in advance or are brought to
the meeting on behalf of parents.
Please check the school website for contact details. The email
address is pta@kelvinsideacademy.org.uk.
8. Kelvinside Academical Club
This is the association of former pupils of the school. In addition
to an annual dinner and various social functions, the Club has a
number of active sporting sections.
When a pupil leaves the school he/she automatically joins the club.
Representatives of the Academical Club address Senior 5/6 leavers
each June and present them with an Academical tie or scarf.
In joining the Club, the young Academical gains access to an
international network of friendship and support.
8

11. 9. Session Dates
Winter Term 2013
Staff INSET: Thursday 15 August 2013
Staff INSET: Friday 16 August 2013 (S5/S6 pupils return)
All Pupils return: Monday 19 August 2013
Staff INSET: Friday 27 September 2013
September Holiday: Monday 30 September 20123
Half Term: Monday 14 October–Friday 25 October 2013
(inclusive)
All Pupils return: Monday 28 October 2013
Term Ends: Friday 20 December 2013 (after Carol Service)
Spring Term 2014
Staff INSET: Monday 6 January 2014
All Pupils return: Tuesday 7 January 2014
Staff INSET: Friday 7 February 2014
Half Term: Friday 7 February–Friday 14 February 2013
(inclusive)
All Staff and
Pupils return: Monday 17 February 2014
Term Ends: Friday 4 April 2014
Summer Term 2014
All Staff and
Pupils return: Tuesday 22 April 2014
May Day: Monday 5 May 2014
Half Term: Friday 23 and Monday 26 May 2014
(inclusive)
Term Ends: Tuesday 24 June 2014
10. The School Day
9

12. An eight-period day is operated, each period being of 40 minutes’
duration.
Timings
Assembly/Form Time 08.50-09.05
Period 1 09.05-09.45
Period 2 09.45-10.25
Period 3 10.25-11.05
Interval 11.05-11.25
Period 4 11.25-12.05
Period 5 12.05-12.45
Lunch 12.45-13.45
Period 6 13.45-14.25
Period 7 14.25-15.05
Period 8 15.05-15.45
Most pupils from each year group will participate in an extra-
curricular games session one afternoon in the week, between
15.45 and 17.00.
On Thursday afternoons, for all pupils in Senior 3, and for opt-in
pupils in Senior 4 - Senior 6, CCF activities take place from 15.45-
17.15.
11. Registration, Lateness, Absence, and Requests for Leave of
Absence
Registration/Assembly
• Form classes are registered by Form Teachers in their
classrooms between 08.50 and 09.05 except on the one day
in the week when there is a Senior School, House or
relevant Year Group assembly and registration is completed
in the Gilchrist Theatre instead.
Late Arrivals
• All pupils are expected to arrive in school by 08.50.
Latecomers arriving in school after registration has been
completed must sign in at Reception.
• If a pupil is late on more than 25% of the openings during a
month without good reason, then the Deputy Rector will
write to the parents requesting them to address the matter
and, if necessary, to attend subsequently a meeting in
school.
10

13. Absence
• When a pupil is absent, parents are asked to telephone the
school with this information on the first day the pupil is
absent. There is a dedicated absence line for this purpose.
On return from absence
• A pupil must pass an absence note to his/her Form Teacher
during registration. The note should refer to the dates of,
and reason for, absence and be signed by a parent.
Requests for leave of absence
•Where it is known in advance that a pupil will require time off
school for a medical or other appointment, a note should be
brought to the Form Teacher prior to the absence itself.
•Family holidays should be arranged to take place during school
holiday periods. Where it is impossible that a holiday takes
place during term time, requests in writing should be made
well in advance to the Rector. Reasonable requests
concerning pupils with good attendance records will be
treated sympathetically but parents are reminded that the
law requires them to ensure that their children attend
school regularly and that the school therefore has complete
discretion where the allowance or refusal of requests for
such absence are concerned.
•Absences are unlikely to be sanctioned when:
o without a request being made, the school is simply
informed that a pupil will be absent
o little or no notice is given, or an explanatory note is
received after the event
o the pupil concerned already has a poor record of
attendance
o in the school’s judgement, any further absence could have
an adverse effect on the pupil’s education.
• Should the school refuse permission, subsequent absence
will be recorded in the attendance register as an
unauthorised absence (condoned by the parents).
• Persistent unauthorised absence will be referred to the
school attendance officer of the local authority in which the
pupil resides and may lead to parents being asked to
withdraw the individual from school.
11

14. 12. Lunch Arrangements
A well-equipped kitchen and modern dining room provide the
facilities for school lunches. A substantial 2 course lunch is
provided for Senior School pupils. There is always a choice of hot
food, salads and a vegetarian option.
Provision is also made for special dietary requirements.
Optionally, Senior School pupils may bring a packed lunch and
they can purchase rolls and sandwiches in the Mall. Pupils will be
allowed to take lunch at home only if they live within five minutes
walk from the school and have received specific permission to do
so. In addition, a snack breakfast is available in the Mall. At
Lunchtime, weather permitting, the pitches at the rear of the
school are available for all pupils to use either to play football or
for general social purposes.
13. Security
• Access to school buildings is by keypads using designated
code numbers. Parents visiting the school should therefore
present themselves at the main entrance and press the
buzzer to attract the attention of the receptionist who will
electronically release the door locking mechanism for them.
• At reception all parents and visitors are required to
complete visitors’ information forms prior to being given a
visitor’s badge which they are asked to wear whilst on the
premises, returning it to the receptionist before leaving.
• At least two members of staff, patrol the school buildings,
playground and immediate environs at the following times
each day: 08.30 - 09.05, 11.05 – 11.25, 12.45 – 13.45.
14. First Aid and Medical Services
First Aid
A pupil becoming unwell or sustaining an injury during the school
day, except when at Balgray, will be dealt with in the first instance
by the School Nurse. The school has a number of qualified first-
aiders if the school nurse is not available.
12

15. Medical Services
Please inform us if your child has an existing medical condition and
of any changes to their health care needs while in school.
In accordance with NHS Public Health Guidelines parents are asked
to note recommended infectious disease exclusion periods and keep
children at home until well enough to return to school. Further details
can be obtained from the School Nurse.
Many children will at some time need to take medication while at
school, this will be administered by the School Nurse. As part of
accepted good practice we ask all parents of children with a medical
condition requiring administration of medicine at school to complete
and sign a consent form. These are available from the School
Nurse. If your child requires to take medication at school please
ensure that it is supplied in the original container as dispensed by
the pharmacist, is named and includes the prescriber’s instructions
for administration.
We are committed to reducing the likelihood of medical emergencies
by identifying and reducing triggers at school and ask that nuts and
nut products are not brought to school.
15. Road Safety
A road crossing patrolman supervises pupils crossing Bellshaugh
Road between the Main Building and the Mirrlees Drive Annex
before classes start in the mornings, at lesson changeovers
throughout the school day, during morning and lunch intervals
and for a period of time after classes finish in the afternoons.
Parents are requested to observe the parking restrictions
outside the School to ensure the safety of all pupils. In
particular, Strathclyde Police advise that stopping on yellow
zig-zags is both selfish and dangerous.
16. Lost Property, Lockers, Losses
• Lost Property is located beside the janitors’ room. Any bags left
abandoned around the school or in the Mall are liable to be
placed in Lost Property.
13

16. • Lockers are available in school for all Senior School pupils.
They are places where games kit, books and valuables can be
stored safely. Pupils requiring a locker should see the janitor
with a padlock and key.
• Losses and Damage to Property. The school cannot accept
responsibility for loss or damage to pupils’ personal
belongings and parents are advised to cover these either by
an extension to their own household comprehensive
insurance policy or by a separate ‘all risks’ policy.
17. Insurance (Personal Accident)
All pupils are covered under a personal accident insurance
scheme, arranged through the Scottish Council of Independent
Schools. Cover extends to the whole year, including activities
outside the school. Full details may be obtained from the Bursar.
18. Communication
Staff welcome enquiries at any time from parents about concerns
which they may have regarding their children’s progress at school
and will co-operate in every possible way to help resolve perceived
difficulties.
•For routine matters like doctor/dentist appointments, Off-Games
and absence due to illness, the point of contact should be the
child’s Form Teacher.
• For routine matters pertaining to classwork, the specific Subject
Teacher should be contacted via Reception or a note. If the
matter is deemed more serious, the relevant Faculty Head or
the Director of Studies should be contacted in the same
manner.
• For more general academic matters, including examination matters
and subject choice options, the Director of Studies,
Mr N Fischbacher should be contacted.
14

17. •For pastoral matters, House Staff should be contacted, via
Reception, as follows:
Buchanan – Miss S Crichton
Colquhoun – Miss K Leckie
MacGregor – Mrs L FitzGerald
Stewart – Mr R W J Moir
• For Career Education matters, the main points of contact are
Mr R W J Moir (up to S4) and Mr N Fischbacher (S5) and
Mr B Parham (S6). UCAS matters should be directed to the
relevant S6 Form Teacher.
For more serious matters, particularly those pertaining to
discipline, the Deputy Rector, Mr A Gilliland, should be
contacted.
Note that any parents who wish to discuss a serious problem or who
are not satisfied with the response received at a lower level should
then contact the Rector.
We hope that you will always be able to resolve issues quickly with
our staff who will make themselves available to discuss concerns or
worries that you may have. However, if you do wish to make a
complaint, please be assured that all such complaints will be taken
seriously and dealt with promptly in accordance with our Complaints
Policy. (See Section 34)
Pupils will learn and develop best when there is close liaison
between home and school. The dates of the following events are
published annually in the pupil diary/planner, and parents are also
reminded in advance where relevant.
• A Pupil Diary/Planner is issued to all pupils at the start of
each session. Dates of At Homes, Profiles, Issue of Reports,
Exams and Assessments, Information Evenings are
included along with information on Homework,
Presentation, Dress Code, Bullying etc.
• At the beginning of each academic year, an Information
evening is held for all parents and pupils who are new to the
Senior School. In addition to presentations outlining what is
normal school routine at Kelvinside Academy, there is also the
opportunity to meet members of Senior School staff informally.
15

18. • Twice-yearly School Reports are distributed to the parents of
every pupil and, in addition, parents also receive Effort and
Attainment Profiles, and where relevant, Higher NAB tracking
reports.
• Information evenings and a series of Reporting Evenings (“At
Homes”) further provide opportunities for parents to meet
teachers, find out more about school activities/plans and
discuss the academic progress of their children. Pupils are also
invited to the “At Homes”.
• There is annual publication of The Chronicle and twice-yearly
publication of Minerva by which parents and Academicals are
kept up to date with school news. The Rector also writes to
parents from time to time.
• The School Website is increasingly being developed as a means
of keeping parents up to date with school events.
• The School uses ‘group text’ to alert parents directly,
particularly with respect to last minute changes of
arrangements.
• And remember that for some activities and events, ‘pupil mail’ is
still used. Please ask your son/daughter or keep an eye on the
contents of his/her schoolbag!
19. Change of Address, Telephone Numbers, Email, Medical Details
etc
It would be extremely helpful if you would keep us informed of any
changes to the contact details you have previously supplied. It is
especially important that our emergency contact numbers, work
numbers and mobile numbers are up to date. Please also
remember to let us know of changes to email addresses. In
addition, any changes to medical details should automatically be
sent to our school nurse. There will also be an opportunity at “At
Homes” throughout the year to make amendments to your personal
details.
All forms of communication rely on accurate and complete
information and therefore you are urged to send an email with the
information required as soon as possible. Hard copies of letters
may still be sent to those parents who do not have access to a
computer.
16

19. 20. Curriculum
Kelvinside Academy is an independent school with its own
distinctive educational vision. The curriculum is designed to fulfil the
school’s aims and values by helping each boy and girl to be and do
their best in every aspect of life.
In particular, the curriculum at Kelvinside Academy is designed to
challenge students and to encourage them to think for themselves.
In searching for knowledge and truth, we want students to acquire
certain habits of mind and intellectual skills: to be able to solve
problems, analyse evidence and construct theses and arguments, to
ask questions, make connections and think critically, scientifically
and imaginatively. The curriculum in the Senior School combines
traditional academic subjects with new, creative courses in Drama
and Photography.
The secondary curriculum begins in J7 (known as Senior Prep),
which is a transition year designed to prepare pupils for the Senior
School. Senior Prep pupils study Maths, English and Social Subjects
with the class teacher and go to subject specialists for Science,
Modern Foreign Languages, Art, Music, Religious Studies, PSHE,
ICT, Drama and Physical Education. The Senior Prep year is
therefore the first of the three year experience from SP to S2 in
which students follow a broad range of subjects as a general
introduction to the curriculum.
We allow students a guided choice of subjects in S3 and S4. In
these years most follow eight subjects. Maths and English are
compulsory and there is a strong expectation that students also
study at least one Science subject and one Modern Foreign
Language. The school is currently moving to courses leading to
National 4 and 5 qualifications. We expect the vast majority of
students to be presented at National 5 level.
The pupils at Kelvinside Academy have a broad range of academic
ability but the vast majority apply to courses at universities and
colleges on leaving. We therefore aim to enable them to achieve the
necessary qualifications for higher education, which for most are
Higher exams. By retaining a structure that allows eight subjects to
be taken to certificate level in S3/S4, we make it possible for pupils
in S5 and S6 to have a greater choice of subjects at Higher and, for
those with strong academic pedigree, Advanced Higher.
17

20. In S5 students will continue to follow a programme of up to 5
subjects at Higher level. In S6, students will study either Advanced
Higher or Higher courses or a mix of both with the aim of preparing
them for higher education and the world of work.
Courses in Senior Prep, Senior 1 and Senior 2
A typically broad Scottish education experience is delivered to these
3 year groups, ensuring that essential literacy and numeracy are
maintained, whilst allowing for increasing exposure to discrete
subjects. Steps are taken to ensure that each pupil has a grounding
which allows for sensible choices and progression as he or she
moves into Senior 3.
The subjects on offer to the three year groups involved at this level
are listed below.
Senior Prep Senior 1 Senior 2
English English/Drama English
Maths Maths Maths
IT Skills IT Skills IT Skills/Computing
Languages Languages Languages
Science Science Biology
Social Subjects Social Subjects Chemistry
Religion Enterprise Physics
Art Religion Social Subjects
Music Art Enterprise
PE Music Religion
Games PE Art
PSE Games Music
PSE PE
Games
PSE
Note that for Senior Prep pupils, English, Maths, History and
Geography are delivered by the Senior Prep teachers. All other
subjects are taught by subject specialists as part of the transition
between the Junior School and the Senior School.
Courses in Senior 3 and Senior 4
Entrance to the Senior 3 year marks the start of two-year courses
culminating in presentation for SQA Examinations. Full
implementation of the Curriculum for Excellence will see nationally
driven changes here in the near future. Intermediate 2 courses will
finish in 2014 to be replaced by National 4 and 5 qualifications in all
subjects.
18

21. Before the end of the Senior 2 year, pupils are asked to choose the
subjects which they will study for at least the next two years. Their
choices are made in consultation with staff and parents and an
explanatory booklet is issued to all pupils mid way through the
Senior 2 year. Decisions taken at this stage will depend on pupils’
individual interests and career ambitions as well as reflect their level
of attainment to date.
All pupils in Senior 3 and Senior 4 will be expected to follow courses
in English, Mathematics, a Modern Language and a Science. They
will then choose further subject options in order to study up to 8
subjects. Additionally, all pupils will have one period per week of PE,
another of Personal and Social Education and a Games afternoon.
The full subject range is:
English Maths
Computing French
German Spanish
Physics Chemistry
Biology History
Geography Modern Studies
Business Management Art and Design
Music Drama
PE PSE
Games
Courses in Senior 5
Highers remain the benchmark for university entrance. Reflecting
this, Senior 5 pupils will work towards Scottish Qualification
Authority (SQA) examinations at Higher or at Intermediate 2 levels.
Pupils are expected to follow a diet of 5 subjects. All of the academic
subjects previously on offer in Senior 4 are available at Higher Level
and pupils choose their subjects for Senior 5 whilst still in Senior 4.
Economics, Physical Education, and RMPS are added to the subject
option list at this stage. As in Senior 2, decisions about choice of
subjects are arrived in consultation with staff and parents, account
being taken of aptitude and career ambitions, and an explanatory
booklet containing information about all of the available courses,
including pre-entry requirements, is issued. A Credit Level of award
in Standard Grade, or an A or B at Intermediate 2 Level is required
for entry to most Highers courses. For pupils without the required
pre-entry for Higher courses, Intermediate 2 courses are offered in
most subjects and this can lead to attempts at Higher courses in
most subjects in Senior 6.
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22. Courses in Senior 6
In the Senior 6 year, each pupil’s curriculum is designed specifically
for individual needs and interests. Advanced Higher courses are
offered in most subjects for those who wish to progress beyond the
level of Highers, often in preparation for the more independent study
required at university. These may be combined with other Highers
which can enable pupils to get a real breadth of qualifications before
they leave school. Other pupils will continue with a diet of Highers
courses, building on Intermediate 2 success that they have attained
in Senior 5. The range of subject options is as for Senior 5, although
Higher Drama and Photography are also offered. In addition, pupils
may be given the opportunity to study an Open University Modular
Course from a large and diverse number annually on offer. Senior 6
pupils will start the session studying a minimum of 3 subjects.
21. Assessment
In the past, schools assessed pupils on the basis of marks and then
used these marks to arrange pupils in rank order from first to last.
The emphasis now is not on comparing pupil with pupil but on
treating each pupil as an individual.
We therefore assess our pupils:
• to identify their strengths;
• to identify their weaknesses and take appropriate action;
• to evaluate the soundness of our teaching methods and
materials;
• to provide pupils, parents and staff with accurate information
on which to base decisions relating to matters such as course
choice, for example, to find out if pupils are making the kind of
progress of which they are each capable.
22. Examination Presentation Policy
The School uses the following criteria in the best interests of pupils for
presentations for SQA examinations. Faculty Heads and the Director
of Studies will liaise with both pupils and parents before any final
decision is made.
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23. Senior 4 : criteria for presentation:
All NABs passed and Prelim result within achievable distance of a
pass (according to archive data for each subject)
Senior 4 : criteria for non-presentation:
NABs failed and/or Prelim result too far adrift.
Senior 4: Presentation Decisions
Pupils in S4 can generally be offered presentation at a level that is
achievable so presentation decisions will normally be concerned with a
drop in level. This will be discussed with the Faculty Head and the
Director of Studies. Occasionally it may be recommended that a pupil
drops a subject entirely if continuing is detrimental to the pupil’s overall
performance.
Senior 5 and 6: criteria for presentation:
All NABs passed and Prelim result within achievable distance of a
pass (according to archive data for each subject) and a consistent
demonstration of hard work and commitment to the course.
Senior 5 and 6: criteria for non-presentation:
NABs failed and/or Prelim result too far adrift.
Senior 5 and 6: Presentation Decisions
Decisions about presentations are made on the basis of two main
reasons.
1. NAB Fails – The most likely reason will be where NABs have
been failed and re-sit opportunities exhausted. At this stage the
Faculty Head and Director of Studies will be involved in either
recommending non-presentation that year (thus making it a 2 year
course), a drop in level of presentation or dropping the subject
altogether. The pupils’ performance in all their subjects, future
plans and commitment to the course will all be considered.
2. Poor Prelim – In general, there will be an opportunity given to a
pupil to show improvement following the Prelims before a final
decision is made. If concerns have been raised prior to the Prelim
it may be that a poor Prelim score is used as the deciding factor in
presentation.
For S5 Pupils presentation decisions are firmly set by the school and
pupils are expected to follow these recommendations.
For S6 Pupils (and S5 Pupils who have formally indicated that they
are leaving) presentation recommendations are made and pupils are
encouraged to follow them but the pupil and parents are given
flexibility in whether they wish to accept the advice.
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24. In all cases, there will be full discussion with the relevant Faculty
Head, the Director of Studies and/or the Deputy Rector before any
final decisions are made. The School reserves the right to make
recommendations regarding presentation in the best interests of
pupils.
Withdrawal from Courses
An individual pupil in Senior 5/6 wishing to withdraw from the study
of a particular subject is advised firstly to discuss the situation with
their subject teacher. With their permission, they should then
discuss the matter with the Director of Studies outlining the
reasons for shedding the subject. If, after the Director of Studies
has consulted the Faculty Head concerned, it is agreed that the
subject may be dropped and alternative arrangements put in
place, the pupil’s parents will be required to confirm the decision in
writing. Note that it is school policy not to recommend withdrawal
from a course except in special circumstances.
23. Reporting, Profiling System and Higher NAB Tracking
Reports
• School Reports are issued twice yearly as follows:
Senior 5/6 - November and February
Senior 4 - November and February
Senior 3 - December and June
Senior 2 - December and June
Senior 1 - December and June
Senior Prep - December and June
• Comments will amplify grades, detailing strengths, weaknesses,
strategies for development.
Profiling
• Profiles are completed by subject teachers for each pupil in
Senior school at regular intervals throughout the session. Parents
will receive the Profile by e-mail. Profiles provide snapshots in
regard to a pupil’s Effort/Attitude, Homework and Attainment.
For pupils in S4 - S6, additional attainment indicators are used
i.e. NABs (internal assessments for National Courses) and
Prelims.
While providing for parents extensive information on the
progress of their children, the Profiles also enable staff to
respond sensitively and timeously to the needs of the
individual child.
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25. • The Effort/Attitude grade reflects consistency of application,
personal organisation, commitment to the subject.
• The Homework grade reflects effort, thoroughness,
punctuality.
• For each of the two categories mentioned, the grading code
used is as follows:
1 = excellent
2 = good
3 = Improvement needed in some areas
4 = Significant improvement needed
For everyone, the target grade should be 2 – Good. A score of 3
for effort or homework should initiate action or intervention by the
student in dialogue with the subject teacher. A line of 3 or 4s for
effort or homework should initiate intervention from the Head of
House, reporting to the Director of Studies.
• Pupils will be commended or highly commended by the
Rector at Year assemblies if their ‘scores’ fall below prescribed
totals.
• It should be noted that commendations are attainable by all
pupils, regardless of ability. So too are Merit Certificates
awarded to pupils in Senior Prep to Senior 3 at the end of
the session.
• Where a pupil’s profile features a ‘4’, and in some cases a ‘3’
score, they may be required to carry a blue Report Card which
monitors the pupil’s performance in classes. Each card, covering
a week’s lessons, is issued by the Form Teacher, signed by a
parent on issue and completion, and finally scrutinised by the
Form Teacher to ensure that appropriate progress is being made.
• This being so, the pupil is normally taken off Report after two
weeks. Should a pupil fail to respond positively to being ‘on
report’, or record ‘unsatisfactory’ scores in a subsequent profile,
the next stage involves placement on a yellow Report Card
monitored daily by their Housemaster/mistress for a similar
period.
• For Attainment the grading code used is as follows:
1 = coping well with all aspects of the course
2 = coping well with most aspects of the course
3 = finding some aspects of the course difficult
4 = experiencing significant difficulties in the course
• It should be noted that when pupils (SP-S3) are setted within a
subject, attainment levels will be relative to the demands
placed upon pupils in that set.
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26. • When a pupil attains a 4 in the Attainment category in one or
more subject, appropriate action will be taken by the Faculty
concerned, and/or by Guidance and/or by Support for
Learning (SfL). Crucially, parents will know what is happening.
• The Profile scores for Effort, Homework and Attainment should
tally with the comments in Reports. Where there is discrepancy,
teachers should explain this in the Report.
Higher NAB Tracking
• Higher NAB Tracking is regularly carried out for pupils in S5 and
S6. These reviews are attainment based and give parents regular
information on progress as Higher NAB units are completed.
Parents will be notified if units/ learning outcomes/tests/NABs/re-
sits are being failed.
24. Homework
Purpose
• to reinforce o r e x t e n d the work of the class;
• to provide the opportunity for individual research;
• to encourage pupils to take responsibility for organising their
own time and work and to identify any problem areas.
• to encourage the establishment of a good work habit in
preparation for later and further education;
• in addition to set homework, all pupils should be encouraged
to check over their work of that day, to ensure that notes are
complete and that everything has been understood.
Advice to Pupils
• It is your responsibility to find out what homework has been
set and to allocate the time in which to do it properly.
• Write down all assignments in your homework diary as soon as
they are set.
• Set aside a regular time each evening for homework. If
anything interrupts this, you must find an equivalent amount
of time to compensate.
• Setting aside time is not alone sufficient. Quality work requires
concentration and no distracting influences. It cannot be done
properly on trains and buses or with loud background noises.
• If you know in advance that you will be away for an evening or
weekend, it is your responsibility to contact subject teachers in
advance in order to negotiate how the work will be done.
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27. Advice to Parents
• Help your son/daughter to set aside a regular time for
homework and insist upon a minimum time being spent on it,
regardless of claims that it has all been done. Do not be
fobbed off with excuses.
• Try to provide a room which is quiet and free from other
distractions - if that is possible!
• Check the homework diary: if it does not seem to contain much,
contact your child’s Form Teacher.
• With younger pupils especially, advice or explanations of work
at home are helpful but please leave your son/daughter to
complete the actual exercise him/herself. Teachers do not
wish to mark parents’ essays; this kind of parental involvement
can conceal problems of which the teacher would otherwise
become aware.
Please note also that, in examination years, certain pieces of
work are formal requirements by the Examination Board and
they must be capable of being certified as having been done by
the candidates themselves.
25. Pupil Support and Pastoral Care
Pupil Support is an integral and central part of education at
Kelvinside Academy. Effective pastoral care through the fostering of
positive relationships is central to helping pupils realise their potential
in all aspects of their education at KA, and it is through these
relationships that support is provided to pupils.
Pupil Support at KA is primarily about empowering pupils to take
responsibility for themselves and their own development and learning
rather than imposing particular standpoints and decisions.
Three specific needs of pupils pursued:
•‘Normal’ development needs which all pupils have in common as they
progress through childhood into adolescence and towards
adulthood.
•Specific personal and educational needs of individual pupils.
•Needs which pupils encounter during their schooling as a result of the
demands placed on them by the educational system.
We aim to develop in every pupil:
•self awareness, self esteem and self confidence.
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28. •the ability to assess personal strengths and weaknesses and to
develop strategies for using strengths and dealing with
weaknesses.
•the qualities and skills necessary to form effective relationships with
others.
•decision making skills, including vocational planning.
•the ability to deal with change and with life transition.
•personal responsibility and self determination.
•personal and social skills for living as a member of an ever changing
society.
Pastoral Care
The School is divided into 4 Houses (Buchanan, Colquhoun,
MacGregor, Stewart), each with a Housemaster/mistress. This
division provides a vertical guidance structure and forms the basis
of personal and social education (PSE) programmes.
• House Staff, with their open-ended remit, build relationships with
members of their House through the delivery of a PSE
programme, the organisation and running of House competition
events, charity events and personal pastoral interviews which
provide information for subject teachers, careers staff and Support
for Learning staff.
• PSE programmes are timetabled one period per week and
progressively deliver courses in Health Issues, Growing Up,
Bullying and Relationships, Subject Choice and the World of
Work, Decision Making, Equal Opportunities, Moral Issues....
• House Staff monitor the Profile System and take responsibility for
the monitoring of Housemaster `On Report`. They routinely
monitor, via a card check-in system, any pupils who are giving any
cause for concern to prevent issues escalating.
• House Staff are the key players in enforcing the school’s Dress
Code.
• The S6 Professional Studies course represents a bridge between
school and higher/further education or employment. Commencing
with an out of school induction day in June for S5, it offers a
programme of activities including preparation and submission of
UCAS forms, leadership education, public speaking, working with
others, community service, enterprise, debating and presentations
and workshops from outside speakers.
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29. • Form Teachers operate as first level guidance staff in addition to
taking the daily register. They serve as the first point of contact
between home and school. They organise work schedules for
absentees and the settling in of new pupils.
• The Student Council operates to ensure an ever closer working
relationship between staff, pupils and the local community.
Curricular Guidance, Career and Enterprise Education
• Academic Target Setting Programmes are initiated at key stages
for S3-4, S5 and S6. The Director of Studies who also delivers
lessons in effective studying and learning skills to all year groups.
• KA’s Career Education Staff provide each pupil with appropriate
advice, guidance and information at the most appropriate stage in
their own decision-making process, with regard to the most
suitable courses to follow, subjects to take, career areas to
explore, and UCAS choices to make.
• The Independent Schools Careers Organisation (ISCO) provide
guidance through their Futurewise programme and psychometric
profiling scheme which is delivered to pupils in S4/S5/S6.
• Pupils are encouraged to use online resources for a wide range of
up-to-date materials on careers, university and college courses.
• Pupils in S4 undertake a work experience placement occurring in
January. Further work experience and work-shadowing
opportunities are offered in S5 and S6. Pupils in S6 attend an
annual Higher Education Fair in August and have the opportunity
to attend university Open Days.
• Parents’ information evenings are held for Parents of New Pupils,
S2 Subject Choice, S4 Subject Choice and Careers Evenings, S5
Oxbridge and 6th Year Induction Evenings.
• Annual Enterprise Days take place for Senior Prep to Senior 3
year groups; these often involve representatives from a host of
different backgrounds.
• Enterprise Education initiatives add a distinctive strand to the
curriculum in the Senior School.
Support for Learning (SfL)
Support for Learning staff offer curricular and behavioural support
across the whole school. They strive to meet the needs of all pupils
experiencing difficulty within the curriculum and also the needs of
gifted pupils.
• To facilitate this and to establish a full picture of each individual,
they are familiar with pupil profiles, test results and information
from the Guidance team.
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30. • Pupil reviews are carried out following each profile.
• They liaise with the Head of Guidance and the Director of Studies
to address any problems arising from classroom difficulties
encountered by pupils.
• Pupil counseling is undertaken, frequently with parental
involvement.
• They have an association with psychological services and after
their own assessments can call on the expertise of the
educational psychologist to formally assess a pupil.
• They make special arrangements for pupils with identified learning
difficulties sitting internal and external examinations and
assessments.
• Parent consultation time occurs weekly, as do pupil drop-in times
and extra- curricular sessions (before and after school).
26. The Library
The Library is open every day from 9.00 to 5.00pm for use by S6
pupils with study periods and also by classes as timetabled and
arranged with the Librarian. Pupils may also use the library during
breaks and after school for quiet reading, study or research. ICT
facilities are available on the upper floor.
27. Games, CCF and Extra-Curricular Activities
Games
All pupils must take part in the regular Games session on their Games
days and, if required, on Saturdays, unless excused by medical
certificate. Senior Prep games are timetabled mid-morning. In Terms
1 and 2, the main Games options are Rugby and Hockey. Shooting,
Rowing, Curling, Football and Fit for Life are also available for S4-S6
pupils. In Term 3, the main Games options are Athletics, Cricket and
Tennis. Golf is added to the options for S4-S6.
Games Afternoon
Monday S1
Tuesday S3
Wednesday S4-6
Thursday S2
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31. The Combined Cadet Force (CCF)
Through its Army, Royal Navy and RAF sections, the CCF offers
pupils the opportunity to develop the qualities of leadership and self-
reliance. Apart from a weekly programme of activities, there are
opportunities to join numerous adventure camps and courses, both in
holidays and at weekends.
Although pupils wear Services uniform (provided for them) for certain
activities, the CCF is not a specifically military or recruitment
organisation: its aims are similar to those of any of the uniformed youth
groups, with the advantage of access to specialised training teams
and equipment which the others could not enjoy. All pupils in Senior
3 must join the CCF; they may opt out of it in later years.
The CCF operates on Thursday afternoons from 3.45pm until
approximately 5.15pm. All parents are welcome to attend the formal
CCF Inspection Parade and Prizegiving at Balgray which takes place
in June.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
Pupils are encouraged to participate in the Award, which is highly
regarded by universities and employers. Most aspects of basic
expedition training are done under the auspices of the CCF.
Expeditions are organised by the school in September, April, May and
June.
Extra-Curricular Activities
The school places great value on the involvement of its pupils in
activities which lie outside their commitment to the formal academic
curriculum and compulsory games programme. Extra-curricular
activities give pupils important opportunities to develop additional
talents and interests, work in mixed-age groups, develop broader
relationships with staff and take on creative and initiating
responsibilities which contribute to their personal and social
development. All pupils are expected to participate in the programme.
An indication of kinds of activities on offer is given below but this will
vary from year to year.
Choir Aikido Handball
Wind Band Table Tennis Board Games
Open Art Studio Craft Club Computing Club
Drama Phoenix Society Climbing Club
Curling Science Club Shooting
Young Enterprise Rowing Handball
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32. Musical Instrument Tuition
Arrangements can be made for pupils to receive professional
tuition in a variety of instruments of their choice by visiting
instrument tutors. Lessons take place weekly during the school day.
Activities Week
An Activities Week is organised in May for each year group from
Senior Prep to Senior 3. This will involve a stay at a residential
centre with the emphasis on outdoor education. Attendance is
compulsory.
28. Colours, Honours, Merit Awards and Prizes
Senior 5 and Senior 6:
Half and Full Colours are awarded for: Sports, The Arts and
Academic Achievement
For Sports and the Arts, criteria and procedures are as laid down by
the School.
For Sports Half Colours in Senior 5, the criteria include attitude and
commitment together with regular and consistent participation and
standard of performance in the School’s first team. Service to the
sport is also taken into account for pupils in Senior 6.
The Sports Full Colours award is a mark of excellence and
additional criteria include the achievement of consistently high
standards with regard to performance and team commitment.
Service to the sport is also taken into account for pupils in Senior 6.
For Arts Half Colours, the criteria include attitude and commitment
together with regular and consistent participation and standard of
performance in one or more of the School’s cultural activities.
Service to the arts is also taken into account for pupils in Senior 6.
The Arts Full Colours award is a mark of excellence and additional
criteria include the achievement of exceptional performance and a
consistently high standard of commitment in one or more of the
School’s cultural activities. Service to the arts is also taken into
account for pupils in Senior 6.
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33. Academic Half Colours are awarded at the beginning of the Senior 6
Year to pupils who, in Senior 5, achieved 5 Highers, with 3 at Grade
A, Academic Full Colours are awarded for 5 Highers with at least 4
at Grade A.
All Colour awards utilise white braid, the wording on the pocket
indicating the discipline or disciplines for which the award has been
made.
Captains and Vice Captains of School wear full braid, standard
school pocket badge plus appropriate lapel badge.
Senior 4:
Junior Colours are awarded for: Sports, The Arts and Academic
Achievement.
For Sports and the Arts, criteria and procedures are as laid down by
the school. Junior Academic Colours are awarded at the beginning
of the Senior 5 Year to pupils who, in Senior 4, achieved seven A
grades at Intermediate 2 or the equivalent. The Junior Colours
award will take the form of a blue lapel badge embossed with the
words “Junior Colours”. Honours ties may be awarded for a
significant achievement by an individual either within or outwith
the school. Citations are submitted to the Deputy Rector. No
categories are laid down: each citation is considered on its merits.
Senior ranks in CCF are entitled to Honours ties.
Senior Prep to Senior 3:
Sports Merit and Merit in the Arts Badges are awarded to boys
and girls in the Senior Prep - Senior 3 years for sustained effort and
commitment in team games or the performing arts.
The Merit badge is a simple lapel badge, colour coded for each year
group.
Merit Certificates, Prizes and Trophies
Merit Certificates are awarded to Senior Prep and Senior 1, at
the end of the academic year, for honest endeavour, commitment
and sustained application in the classroom, as evidenced
through the Profiling system.
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34. Prizes and Trophies are awarded in recognition of achievement
and excellence in a range of activities - academic study, sport, the
Arts, Leadership, citizenship and others.
All the awards detailed above contribute to the promotion of an
ethos of achievement in which hard work, application and
excellence are recognised, valued and rewarded.
29. Discipline
Discipline Policy
At the heart of everything the school does is the concern to effect the
personal and social development of all pupils. Our policy on discipline
is therefore directed towards achieving and maintaining the
appropriate balance between the needs of the individual and those of
the school community at large. Individual rights and freedoms have to
be tempered by fostering individuals’ sense of responsibilities within
and towards the school.
All pupils have the right to expect friendliness, tolerance, respect and
encouragement both from their fellow pupils and members of staff.
Conversely, the school has a right to expect self-discipline, positive
attitudes and loyalty from pupils.
Positive Measures
Encouragement and praise for good work and conduct will be
given by staff whenever possible. Often this is done informally but
the following formal channels are also used:
• commendation before the whole class by the Form Teacher
• grading system in Profiles
• classwork award to the pupil adjudged to have made the best
effort in each class Profile
• referral to the Rector for special commendation, entry in the
Distinction Book and award of a Certificate of Distinction for
achievement in an academic, sporting or cultural activity
• parental contact: automatically after each Profile and through
formal School Reports
House Staff hold group meetings at which they encourage pupils to
see the need for a proper work ethos and for caring and
considerate conduct generally. Target setting initiatives are co-
ordinated by the Director of Studies for all year groups.
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35. The maintenance of a full programme of extra-curricular activities
fosters a feeling of identity with the school so that pupils may feel
wholly involved in it rather than see it solely as a place of work.
They also help to increase contact between pupils and staff,
encouraging feelings of mutual respect. Above all, they stimulate,
motivate and enrich the educational experience of all pupils.
Sanctions
Fundamental to an effective discipline policy is the progressive
application of sanctions with steps laid out clearly and
unambiguously. Staff follow designated guidelines when dealing
with offenders in order to avoid undermining the system and, in
particular, devaluing the final sanctions. After-school detention on a
Friday is part of this progressive system of sanctions.
It should be noted that repeated misbehaviour or very serious
misconduct may lead to suspension or permanent exclusion. In
the event of the latter, parents may appeal the Rector’s decision, if
they feel it unwarranted. Such an appeal would be made in writing
to the Chairman of Governors.
School Rules
Pupils are expected:
• to treat all others with respect and courtesy.
• to be personally responsible for their own behaviour both within and
travelling to and from school.
• to attend on all days of the session unless ill, or when specific leave
of absence is obtained.
• to fulfil all school commitments punctually and positively.
• to respect school buildings and property.
• to observe the following rules:
The following are forbidden at all times:
• Bullying, including harassment on grounds of race or sex, as
detailed in the pupil diary/planner.
• Theft, including borrowing possessions without permission.
• Betting and gambling.
• Graffiti or other wilful damage to property.
• Plagiarism/cheating in exams, assessment or classwork.
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36. The following may not be used or possessed:
• Tobacco in any form.
• Alcohol.
• Drugs or any illegal substances.
• Offensive weapons including replica guns and knives, fireworks
and laser pens.
• Chewing gum.
• Inappropriate literature, including pornography.
Eating and Drinking:
• Eating and drinking (with the exception of bottled water) are not
allowed in corridors, classrooms, library, Gilchrist Theatre, MM
Room, changing rooms or Games Hall.
• Packed lunches and snacks should normally be eaten in the
Dining Hall or the Mall, or outside in the playground. Lunches,
whether packed lunches or “Grab and Go” lunches should not be
eaten whilst sitting on the floor/ground and should not be taken to
the Cleveden Pitches.
• Litter must be placed in the bins provided.
Mobile Phones:
• Mobile phones may only be used at breaktimes/lunchtimes; they
must be switched off during lessons.
• Mobile phone cameras must never be used in school or at school
events.
• Valuables, including mobile phones, should either be kept in the
pupil’s locker, or when the item will be left unattended during a
lesson or other organised activity, given to a member of staff for
safekeeping.
Computer Resources:
•All pupils must adhere to the agreement that they have signed to
follow the guidelines on the use of the school’s computer facilities.
Dress Code:
•All pupils must adhere to the Dress Code as listed in the School
Diary/Planner, and with the Dress Regulations as published in the
uniform lists issued to all parents.
•School uniform must be worn by all pupils at school, going to and
from school, and at all school functions unless specified
otherwise. When representing the school, a pupil must wear
uniform to and from Balgray and at any away fixture or other
34

37. event, unless instructed otherwise by a member of staff to change
into games kit in school beforehand.
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38. The following areas are Out of Bounds:
• All private property and lanes around the school.
• Classrooms outside of class time, except when permission
has been granted by the appropriate member of staff.
• The Sixth Form Centre.
• Junior School corridors except when on Junior School
business or visiting Support for Learning.
Arriving Late/Leaving School during the School Day:
• Pupils who are late for morning registration must report to
Reception upon arrival in school.
• Pupils who wish to be excused from a Games Practice must
give a note to their Form Teacher during registration. When a
pupil is late for school and does not attend registration, it is
their responsibility to hand their “Off Games” note to
reception. Note that any “Off Games” pupils will normally
undertake supervised study in the Library or a classroom
during their Games period.
• Any pupil who becomes ill or is injured during school hours
should report to the School Nurse for first aid and/or
permission to return home early. No pupil will be permitted to
return home until all the necessary arrangements have been
made with their parents.
• Pupils who are required to attend a doctor/dentist etc
appointment during the school day must “sign out” at
Reception before leaving and “sign in” again upon their
return.
• No other pupil is permitted to leave school premises during
the school day without permission from the Deputy Rector.
• The only exceptions are S5/6 pupils during lunchtime and
pupils who have been granted permission to go home for
lunch.
• S6 may leave school premises with the special permission of
the Head of Sixth Year and the Deputy Rector.
Absence:
•Requests to attend hospital, doctor and dental appointments
must be submitted in advanced to the Form Teacher.
•Requests to be excused, for an exceptional reason, from a
Saturday Games fixture must normally be made at least 2
weeks in advance to the Head of Games. When there is a
clash between club and school interests, the school has prior
claim on a pupil’s services.
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39. •Any pupil who is ill on Friday evening/Saturday morning should
contact their team captain and/or leave a message on the
answering machine at Balgray. This should be supported by
a note to the member of staff in charge of their team upon
return to school.
•Should there be the necessity for a request for any other leave of
absence, this must be submitted to the Rector as early as
possible.
•In the event of absence through illness or injury, parents should
telephone the school on the first day the pupil is absent and
keep the school informed at regular intervals thereafter.
•On returning from absence, a pupil must provide a parentally
signed note explaining the absence to their Form Teacher
during registration.
Motor Vehicles:
• No pupil may drive any kind of motor vehicle to School unless
they have previously given a Pupil Driver Authorisation Form,
completed by their parent/guardian, to the Deputy Rector.
• A pupil may only drive to and from School/Balgray and may
not use their car at any other time during the school day
unless specific permission has been granted by the Deputy
Rector.
• No pupil may give a lift to another pupil unless both pupils
have brought a note from their parents authorising the lift.
• When travelling in the school minibus, and in hired coaches
to activities and events, seat belts must be worn.
Library, Games Hall, Multi-Gym:
• Separate conditions of use are on display at each of these
locations concerning their use. Pupils must adhere to these
conditions.
Damage:
• The cost of repair of damage to school property caused by a
pupil is the responsibility of that pupil’s parents.
Taking you further.....
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40. Games
• All pupils (except those excused on medical grounds) must take
part in organised games on games days. Pupils must wear
their school uniform when travelling to and from games unless
instructed by a member of staff to change into kit in school
beforehand.
• Pupils who wish to be excused from a games practice for any
reason must hand a note to the Form Teacher during
Registration and report to the Form Teacher on every day they
wish to be excused thereafter. When a pupil is late for school
and does not attend Registration, it is his/her responsibility to
report direct to the Director of Games with a note at the earliest
opportunity.
• All pupils who are Off-Games will undertake supervised private
study in school as directed by the Rector.
• Any pupil who is ill on Friday evening/Saturday morning
should contact his/her Team Captain and/or leave a message
on the answering machine at Balgray. It is the pupil’s
responsibility to deliver a parental letter of explanation to
either the member of staff in charge of the team or the Director
of Games first thing on Monday morning. The detailed
procedure also appears in the Pupil Diary.
• Pupils who wish to be excused from a Saturday match must
hand a parental letter of request to the member of staff in
charge of their team at least two weeks in advance to the
Director of Games. In the event of a controversial request, the
Director of Games will consult the Rector. Saturday matches are
an integral part of the school’s routine and permission will
normally only be granted in exceptional circumstances.
• When clashes arise between school and club interests, the school
may make prior claim on the pupil’s service.
Drugs, Alcohol, Smoking
In accordance with the School Rules, pupils are strictly forbidden to
bring drugs or alcohol onto the school premises. Any pupil who brings
drugs into school or sells drugs at any time to another pupil will be
required to leave the school permanently. Any other involvement in
drugs, in or out of school, brings into question the continued
membership of the school by the pupil and will almost certainly lead to
suspension from school. The bringing of alcohol into school or the
selling of alcohol to other pupils is likely to result in suspension.
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41. Similarly, smoking, or having any smoking related materials in school
or when participating in school activities or when in uniform, is also
likely to result in suspension.
Suspensions
Pupils are only suspended for the most serious of offences eg bullying,
verbal abuse of staff, cheating in an SQA assessment, truancy, and
drug, smoking and alcohol related issues. Pupils involved in fighting or
who are rude to a member of staff will be sent home. If parents cannot
be contacted, they will be excluded from lessons and other activities
for the remainder of the day.
Permanent Exclusion
Permanent exclusion is extremely rare and is only used for offences of
the utmost gravity, or for repeated offences of gravity or because a
pupil’s position in school has become untenable.
30. School Appointments
The School Captains and Vice-Captains, the Heads of House and
the Captains and Vice-Captains of Sports Teams, are appointed
by the Rector, who takes into consideration the recommendations of
members of staff and the views of senior pupils. Appointments are
made on the basis of considered fitness to do the job and are not
automatic rewards for individual achievement.
31. Dress Code
The Senior School Dress Code which follows is also printed in The
Pupil Diary.
Parents are urged to ensure that the code is adhered to whilst
boys and girls are travelling to and from school.
The Dress Code operating is as follows:
General
• Wear your school uniform in accordance with the dress
regulations. Top buttons should be fastened and covered by
the tie. Shirts/blouses tucked in. All items of clothing and
other articles should be clearly marked with the owner’s
name.
• Take a pride in your appearance at all times and remember
this includes the time travelling to and from school.
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42. Uniform and Jewellery
• Boys should wear plain grey or dark socks and black leather
shoes without buckles (boots are not permitted). Personal
jewellery, with the exception of a watch, should not normally
be worn. Earrings and large rings are not permitted.
• Girls may wear one simple pair of earrings in the
conventional position on the ear. One simple ring is
permitted. Other items of personal jewellery, with the
exception of a watch, should not normally be worn.
• A plain navy blue or black overjacket without logo may be
worn.
• Fleeces and hoodies may not be worn.
• Only school scarves should be worn.
• The correct games kit specified for the activity must be worn.
Hair
•Boys should keep their hair cut to a reasonable length. It should
neither be too long nor too short, and in all cases must be off
the collar and out of the eyes. Older boys should shave
regularly.
•In class, Girls should keep their hair tied back if long, and in all
cases it should be out of the eyes.
•For either sex, hair should be of one natural colour. Extremes of
fashion are not permitted.
For Girls
• No make-up is permitted for girls in Senior Prep–S2
•Minimal make-up only is permitted for senior girls (S3-S6)
•Only clear or natural nail polish is acceptable for all girls (SP-S6)
For any other matters, House Staff can offer guidance on what is
acceptable.
REMINDER : WINTER DRESS
•Footwear: Black School shoes should continue to be worn. Only
if the weather deteriorates into snow/ice conditions can
sensible alternative footwear be worn. This is to enable pupils
to safely move to and from Mirrlees Drive.
•When it gets cold, a plain navy blue or black overjacket without
logo may be worn.
•Fleeces and hoodies may not be worn, including under blazers.
•Only school scarves should be worn.
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43. REMINDER : SUMMER DRESS
• When the weather is warm and sunny, it is permissible to wear
a shirt/blouse with sleeves rolled up, open neck without tie,
and without a blazer.
32. Sixth Year, the Common Room and the Leadership Programme
Sixth Year
The 6th Year is very different to those which have gone before.
Young people who embark upon it can expect to undergo a range
of additional experiences designed to prepare them for the world
beyond school. Equally important is the contribution expected of
them to the school, as its most senior pupils.
Given this dual set of expectations, it is essential that boys and
girls who wish to enter 6th Year can meet the criteria set out below.
It is furthermore essential that, once pupils begin a 6th
Year, they continue to meet these criteria.
The Entry Criteria
• The pupil must have the necessary pre-entry qualifications to
ensure a viable academic timetable for the 6th Year.
• The pupil must, in the course of Senior 5, have demonstrated the
appropriate work ethic, particularly given the opportunities for
independent private study in 6th Year.
• The pupil must, in the course of Senior 5, have demonstrated
good attendance and reliable timekeeping.
• The pupil must, in his/her previous career at school, have
demonstrated a commitment to the values and ethos of the
school, as evidenced by his/her involvement in different areas
of school life (e.g. sport, the Arts, CCF etc.) and his/her positive
attitude and behaviour.
• The pupil must be prepared to undertake and maintain a
commitment to competing the S6 Leadership programme,
including the Professional Studies course.
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44. As a school we have a right to expect our 6th Year to be
appropriate role models for younger pupils. In return 6th Year pupils
will enjoy new challenges, new freedoms, new responsibilities, all
of which will provide valuable preparation for Higher Education
and the world of work.
All pupils entering 6th Year will be considered against these same
criteria.
The Leadership Programme
All pupils in S6 are expected to engage in the Leadership course.
Negotiated and designed around the needs and aspirations of each
student, S6 pupils will be expected to achieve credits for taking
academic subjects and also undertaking service within and outside
school. They will gain further credits for contribution to the wider life
of the school and community work.
They will also be expected to complete the Professional Studies
course, which includes modules in:
Theory and Practice of Leadership: communication, working in
teams, motivation.
Study Skills: research methods, using the university library, writing
an undergraduate essay, making a presentation.
Community Service: working for the Voluntary Tutors Organisation in
local primary schools; volunteering at the Cadogan Street Soup
Kitchen, helping younger pupils and running clubs & societies within
the school.
Enterprise: a team challenge to set up and run a social or business
enterprise which brings benefit to others.
Personal and Social Skills: managing finance, campus cooking,
health and hygiene, personal safety and decision making.
The Professional Studies course is run by the S6 Leadership Co-
ordinator; it includes presentations by visiting speakers, many of
whom are leaders in the world of higher education or business.
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45. Sixth Year Study Periods
The purpose of these periods is:
• to encourage responsible and independent study habits in
preparation for university or college life.
• to supplement time available for homework, given that any
responsible member of the 6th Year should be allocating time
each day to private study.
• to enable access to reference or other study materials not
available at home.
• to enable work to be done on the “Professional Studies”
course.
The Sixth Form Centre
One of the privileges of the S6 Year is the use of the Sixth Form
Centre. In 2013-14, this will move to MacKenzie House in 1, Kirklee
Gardens, the building immediately adjacent to the school. In addition
to a common room, the Centre has a small kitchen, a seminar room,
study room and the office of the Head of S6. All members agree to
abide by the membership code administered by a Common
Room Committee elected by the 6th Year.
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46. 33. Policies
A number of other policies exist and these have a bearing on the
operations of the school. These policies are briefly documented below
and are also published in full on the website.
Bullying Policy
It is the right of all pupils to be able to enjoy their time at the school
and to be able to make the most of all the opportunities which are
available to them. It follows that any form of bullying which would
prevent this is totally unacceptable.
Everyone concerned with the school, including teaching staff, non-
teaching staff, the pupils and parents, shares the responsibility to
ensure that bullying does not take place and that the school policy
regarding bullying is fully understood and implemented.
Drugs Policy
Kelvinside Academy’s Policy on Drugs outlines the School’s approach
to the issue of drug misuse, including solvents and the misuse of
medicines. Alcohol and tobacco are treated separately. The Policy
also provides information and advice for parents.
Trips Policy
The School’s guidelines for the conduct of day and residential school
trips are followed by all staff organising a trip.
Equal Opportunities Policy
The School is committed to the principle of equal opportunities in
respect of disability, race and gender.
Mobile Phone Policy and Parents’ Guide to the Internet
The school is committed to safe, sensible use of Mobile Phones and
the Internet. The Policy provides a guide for parents and rules on the
use of mobile phones in school.
Computer Resources Policy
Each pupil signs an annual agreement to follow guidelines on the use
of the school's computer facilities. The agreement is countersigned by
parents and a copy of it is then held on file by the School.
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47. Child Protection Policy
All children have the right to be protected. All adults who have the
charge of care of have a responsibility to ensure that the children in
their care are not harmed.
This applies to teachers generally and our guidelines have been drawn
up in accordance with the recommendations published by the Scottish
Council of Independent Schools (SCIS) and with advice received from
HM Inspectorate of Education.
Mr A Gilliland, the Deputy Rector is the Senior School Child Protection
Co-ordinator and Miss S Crichton is the Senior School Deputy Child
Protection Co-ordinator.
The school aims to ensure that pupils live and work in a safe
environment where they are respected and listened to by adults.
Personal safety and the safe use of the Internet are covered in PSE
classes. All staff are given specific guidelines on what to do and how
to react if a pupil chooses to confide in them. Details of these
guidelines can be made to any parent on request.
Pupils are given the following advice: staff are there to listen and help:
• if you have something important on your mind
• if you are worried about things that are happening to you
• if you need help or need to know how to find help
If you are unsure about talking to a member of staff, you can phone
Childline on 0800 1111.
Anything imparted to the school in confidence will be treated in
confidence, subject to the following qualifications:
•A member of staff to whom information has been imparted in
confidence has the right to seek the advice, guidance, or support
of a senior colleague when s/he feels the need to do so. Where a
member of staff feels that a matter lies beyond his/her level of
competence, it is right for that individual to refer the matter to an
appropriate senior colleague.
•Where there are serious concerns about the safety or welfare of a
pupil, all members of staff must comply with the terms of the
school’s Child Protection Policy and refer these concerns to the
school’s Child Protection Officer who, in turn, may then decide to
involve the Children’s Reporter, police or social services.
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48. A member of staff may only give an undertaking of confidentiality
in so far as this is compatible with the principle that children’s
welfare is always paramount.
•When a member of staff feels that s/he must pass on information
provided in confidence, s/he will, wherever possible, inform the
pupil/parent concerned that this is the case and explain the
reasons for which it is considered necessary to do so. This,
however, would not apply in an emergency or in any circumstance
in which a child’s safety or welfare might be seriously
compromised.
•The school will not pass on to other agencies or individuals
information it has about pupils and their families, except with
their permission or where the information is already in the public
domain or where the school is obliged to do so by law or a court
order. In all instances the school conforms to the stipulations of
the Data Protection Act.
Complaints Policy
It is important that pupils and parents who have a complaint or
concern should be able to express their views and feelings and obtain
a fair hearing and a prompt response to any complaint which they
make. It is hoped that most concerns can be sorted out quickly and
informally by speaking to the appropriate member(s) of staff. The
School’s Complaints Policy, available on the website, documents
procedures for complaints.
34. Confidentiality
Kelvinside Academy aims to establish relationships of trust
between staff, pupils and parents. Pupils and parents should
therefore feel able to make the school aware of personal and
private matters, including concerns about safety and welfare, in
the certain knowledge that such information will be dealt with
sensitively.
35. Withdrawals
If a pupil (including recipients of bursaries and scholarships) is to
be withdrawn from the School at the end of any term, a full term's
notice in writing must be given to the Rector, failing which a term’s
fees in lieu of notice will be charged.
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49. 36. Data Protection
The school will not pass on to other agencies or individuals
information it has about pupils and their families, except with
their permission or where the information is already in the public
domain or where the school is obliged to do so by law or a court
order. In all instances the School conforms to the stipulations of
the Data Protection Act.
37. In Conclusion.....
A successful education depends upon a supportive and co-operative
partnership between home and school. We therefore encourage
parents to take an active interest in their children’s life at school
and help to promote a commitment to hard work, organised study
and active participation in Games and extra-curricular activities in a
purposeful and well-disciplined atmosphere.
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50. INDEX
Section Description
3 Aims of the School
21 Assessment
19 Change of Address, Telephone Numbers, Email, Medical Details etc
28 Colours, Honours, Merit Awards and Prizes
18 Communication
34 Confidentiality
2 Contacting the School
20 Curriculum
36 Data Protection
29 Discipline – Positive Measures, Sanctions, School Rules
31 Dress Code
22 Examination Presentation Policy and Withdrawal from Courses
14 First Aid and Medical Services
27 Games, CCF and Extra Curricular Activities, Musical Instrument
Tuition and Activities Week
24 Homework
17 Insurance (Personal Accident)
8 Kelvinside Academical Club
7 Kelvinside Academy Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
6 Kelvinside Academy War Memorial Trust and Governors
16 Lost Property, Lockers, Losses
12 Lunch Arrangements
5 Non-Teaching/Support Staff
25 Pastoral Care and Pupil Support
33 Policies
30 School Appointments
1 Rector’s Welcome
11 Registration, Lateness, Absence, and Requests for Leave of Absence
23 Reporting, Profiling System and Higher NAB Tracking
15 Road Safety
13 Security
4 Senior School Staff
9 Session Dates
32 Sixth Year, The Common Room and Leadership Programme
26 The Library
10 The School Day
35 Withdrawals
48