BOARD OF GOVERNORS' REPORT 2018-19 - Belfast High School - Belfast High ...
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BOARD OF GOVERNORS’ REPORT 2018-19
_______________________________________
Belfast High School
November 2019CONTENTS
Chairman’s Foreword
Board of Governors’ Discharge of Function in Relation to the School
Membership of the Board of Governors 2018-19
Ethos and Vision of Belfast High School
Enrolment, Admissions and Attendance
School Activities/Pupil Achievements
Examination Results 2018-19
School Leavers’ Destinations 2018-19
Curriculum
Pastoral Care, Safeguarding and SEN
Security of Pupils, Staff and Premises
Links with the Community
Financial Statement
School Development Days 2018-19
School Policies
2Chairman’s Foreword
As Chairperson of the Board of Governors of Belfast High School, it is my pleasure and privilege to
introduce the school’s annual report for the academic year 2018-19.
We live in a world that is constantly changing – when will Brexit happen, will Brexit happen, and
what will the consequences be. Most of us use technology that even a few years ago would have
seemed beyond our imagination and if we stop to think for a moment what the world will look like in
2026 when our current Year 8 pupils finish their time in Belfast High School it can become a little
frightening.
It is therefore more important than ever that we continue to provide our pupils with the best
possible education both in the classroom and through the many and varied extra-curricular
activities which Belfast High School provides, and I hope as you read this report you will be
inspired as we celebrate many of the achievements of our pupils over the past year.
As well as constant change all schools continue to operate under severe financial pressure and we
would like to thank all the staff for their commitment to the school in these challenging times and
their continuing desire to provide our pupils with the best possible opportunity for them to reach
their full potential and their aspiration to instil in each pupil the determination to strive in all
activities, academic and otherwise, to achieve his or her own level of excellence.
We acknowledge the very strong examination performances by our pupils; at A Level the 78%
3xA*-C passes places us in line with the NI Grammar School Average and at GCSE the 94% 7xA*-
C passes including English and Maths places us above the NI Grammar School Average. We also
recognise the key role that our teachers, parents and other family members play in supporting and
encouraging the pupils in all of their endeavours.
Finally, we would like to thank Mrs Weir for her leadership of the school and offer our warm
congratulations on a very successful first year as full time Principal and we look forward to seeing
Belfast High continue to go from strength to strength.
Mr M Finlay
Chairman
3Board of Governors’ Discharge of Function in Relation to the School
The Governors met regularly through various sub-committees and full Board meetings during the
period September 2018 to June 2019. Minutes were taken at all meetings and circulated to
members. The Board Sub Committees are:
Education
Human Resources
Grounds, Property and Development
Finance
Audit
Admissions
Appeals
The Board of Governors ensured that the School fulfilled its curricular and pastoral care
responsibilities and provided a range of co-curricular activities for all pupils. The Board and its
Finance Committee ensured that the School made the most effective use of the financial resources
available to it.
Whilst the Board of Governors has overall responsibility for the management of the School, the
Principal is delegated by the Board of Governors with the responsibility for the strategic leadership
and management of the School, including the School’s finances. The Senior Leadership Team
meets once per week and consists of the Principal, the Vice Principal and four Senior Teachers.
The team has a leading role in strategic planning and ensuring the efficiency and effectiveness of
how the School operates.
All members of the Senior Leadership Team are familiar with the important day to day issues of
school life and may be delegated significant responsibilities in the absence of either the Principal
and/or the Vice Principal.
Heads of Department meet with the Senior Leadership Team throughout the year to ensure
coherence and consistency in their approach to the delivery of the curriculum.
Heads of Year oversee the day to day pastoral issues within their year group and provide support
and guidance to their Form Teachers. Heads of Year meet regularly with the Senior Leadership
Team to ensure a consistent team approach.
Other staff who hold additional teaching allowances are managed through a line management
system. These allowances are required to address additional significant aspects of school life.
4Board of Governors 2018-19
Member Governors:
Mr M Finlay, BSSc (to May 2022)
Mrs J McDermott, PG CIPD Strategic HR, CIPD TP and Cert Crim Law (to December 2021)
Dr K McKnight BSc, MA (Cantab), BM BCh (Oxon), FRCP (to May 2022)
Prof. R Millar, MA (Cantab), DPhil, CEng, FBCS, CITP, FHEA (to May 2021)
Mr B Roden, BSc, FCA (to May 2021)
Parent Governors:
Mr K Swarbrick, BA, MA, FCA, MAPM (to December 2021)
Mrs A Zacharopoulou, LLB, LLM, PGCUT, SFHEA (to December 2021)
Teacher Governor:
Dr J King, MA, PGCE, PhD (to December 2021)
Department of Education Nominated Governors:
Mr G Gray, BSc, PGCE, CSci(teach) (to December 2021)
Mr L Johnston, BEd, DASE, Adv Dip Ed (to December 2021)
Ms D Kiley, LLB, CPLS (to December 2021)
Mr K Kilpatrick, BA, PG Dip Comp Sci, MEd, PG Cert Management (to December 2021)
Mr WK Mo, BA, ILM (to December 2021)
Mr G Wills, BSc, MArch, ARB, RIBA (to December 2021)
Principal
Mrs C Weir, BA, MSc, PGCE, PQH
Secretary to the Board of Governors
Mrs M McCaughey, BSSc, PGCE, PGDip, FinAcc (School Bursar)
Office Bearers
Chairman Mr M Finlay
Vice Chairman Prof R Millar
Convenor of Education Committee Prof R Millar
Convenor of Human Resources Committee Ms D Kiley
Convenor of Finance Committee Mr K Swarbrick
Convenor of Grounds, Property and Development Committee Mr G Wills
Convenor of Audit Committee Prof R Millar
Convenor of Admissions Committee Mr M Finlay
Convenor of Appeals Committee Mr M Finlay
5Ethos and Aims of Belfast High School
Belfast High School is a co-educational voluntary grammar school, controlled by a Board of
Governors. It was founded in 1854 by John Pyper on a site near Carlisle Circus in Belfast. The
School moved to its present location in Jordanstown in 1963 and now occupies a 32-acre site on
the north shore of Belfast Lough. It is a school which is forward-looking and innovative while
retaining the values and tradition of its founders and has a reputation as one of the leading
grammar schools in the country.
Ethos
To develop each person to be the best that he or she can be in an atmosphere of civilised
tolerance.
Aims
To provide a broad, balanced and coherent curriculum which suits the needs of all pupils in a
changing society and which encourages each pupil in his or her intellectual, cultural, aesthetic
and physical development.
To instil in each pupil the determination to strive in all activities, academic and otherwise to
achieve his or her own level of excellence.
To encourage in pupils a respect for religious and moral values.
To create a caring environment in which the needs of each pupil are considered.
To foster social attitudes which will enable each pupil to take his or her place as a responsible
member of the community.
To value and respect everyone, recognise their strengths and differences, encourage them to
develop their skills and abilities and have a positive attitude to each and every member of our
community.
To develop the three-way partnership (parent-pupil-school) to enable our pupils to attain their
full potential.
To prepare our pupils for the challenges and opportunities of the fast-paced C21st world.
6Enrolment, Admissions and Attendance
Enrolment
The enrolment for 2018-19 was 914 pupils (DENI census 2018).
Admissions
The admissions number for Year 8 was 136.
The table below shows the number who applied and who were admitted over the past 3 years:
Admissions Total Applications Appeals Total
Year
Number All Preferences Upheld Admissions
2017-18 136 187 0 138*
2018-19 136 194 0 136
2019-20 136 170 0 136
*includes 2 pupils with a statement of special educational needs
Attendance
The Annual Attendance Rate for 2018-19, calculated in the manner set down by the Department of
Education was 95.5%
7School Activities and Achievements
The Board of Governors of Belfast High School is pleased to present the Annual Report for the
academic year 2018-2019. The Report begins with a review of the public examination results
which were published in August 2019.
The class of 2019 left us with another very strong set of results for the school with 92% of all
entries awarded at grades A*-C, 70% of entries A*-B and 39% of all entries an A or A*.
In a year group of 100 pupils, our top 20 pupils achieved 23 A* and 40 A grades between them.
Special congratulations go to our 2 top performing pupils - Dieon Karikunnel who achieved 4A*
grades and Adam Crilly who achieved 3A* and 1 A grade. Our pupils have gone on to an ever
more diverse range of destinations: some have continued their studies at universities across the
UK and Ireland, have taken up apprenticeships with organisations as diverse as PWC and the
Scripture Union, gone to teach English in Chile and Senegal through Project Trust or taken up a
scholarship in the United States.
2019 was the first year of results for the new GCSEs with the new grading system, the introduction
of a new C*, a smaller band for a B grade and 2-year linear English Board exams with results
awarded at 9-1. Any change of subject specification is stressful for teachers and pupils but as
results day demonstrated, the determination and ability of the pupils and the commitment and
expertise of the staff ensured that the cohort of 2019 delivered some of the best GCSE results the
school has ever achieved. One of the key benchmarks at this level is the percentage of pupils who
achieve 7 passes at A*-C grade including English and Maths and for this cohort that figure was
94% of all of the pupils. An incredible 60% of all grades achieved was an A or an A* and equally
impressive was the statistic of 70% of all grades awarded were A*-B. Special congratulations go to
Amy Armstrong, Katie Marshall, Christian Perry and Alexandra Stafford-Santana who each
attained 9A* and 1A grades and Amy Ellis a fantastic 10A* grades. In Spanish Elena Eickhoff-
Fernandez was placed second in Northern Ireland. In GCSE Art Stephanie Robinson had her
artwork selected for the CCEA True Colours exhibition and Katie Marshall and Cameron Tucker
were awarded maximum marks in their GCSE.
In staffing this year we thank our teaching retirees for their many years of service to the school,
both inside and outside the classroom: Miss McKeown from the English Department, Dr Gaston
from the Chemistry department and Mrs Gregory from the History and Politics departments. They
each contributed a lot to the education of many of our pupils in the widest sense as well as being
highly valued colleagues. We also bade farewell to 2 long serving members of our support staff:
Sandra Maguire, our canteen supervisor and Wing Mei Yeung, our ICT Assistant and the Board
wishes them both well as they enjoy their well-earned free time. The Board also thanks Dr Gibson
for her contribution to the school firstly as Head of Physics and then as Head of Science. As an
Odgen Trust Teacher Fellow, Dr Gibson worked in collaboration with the charity to spread her
enthusiasm and commitment to Physics to our partner schools.
The Board also sends its very best wishes to those staff whose career path sees them moving on:
to Mr Jellie whose contributions as a Year Head, to Religious Studies and Geography, and through
Duke of Edinburgh were appreciated by many - the Board wishes him well in his new role as the
Head of Religious Studies in Strathearn.
8to Miss Jones who left us to take up a position as Head of Technology in Guernsey Grammar
School and Sixth Form Centre.
to Dr Woods who left us to take up a position as a lecturer in the School of Education at the Ulster
University.
to Ms Macpherson in her roles as Head of Biology and Careers on her move to Spain.
With these departures come new arrivals and the Board welcomed the following permanent
members of staff - Mr Young to the position of Head of English, Mrs Wharry to the Religious
Studies department and Miss McQueen to the Geography department. The Board also welcomed
back Dr Anderson in Biology, Miss Berry in English, Miss Robinson in History, Mr Robinson in
Technology, Mr Gilmour in PE and Mr McLarnon in Physics.
The Board congratulates Mrs Rogers, Mr Spence, Mrs Edwards, Dr Wood and Mrs Burch on the
successful completion of their respective middle Leader development programmes. Mrs Edwards
also secured a new one-year contract as a Lead Educator with the National Space Academy and
Mrs Burch extended her repertoire with an additional qualification in the clarinet. The Board also
congratulates Mr Agnew, senior science technician, who was a Northern Ireland finalist in the
Enthuse Stem Technician Awards
The school’s commitment to provide the highest standard of facilities for pupils and staff continued
last year with the installation of a new lift and fire escape to the Music department, a new hygiene
room and the first phase of the refurbishment of the assembly hall.
The school’s partnership with the Friends of Belfast High School, under the leadership of
Chairperson Mrs Elizabeth Moore, was very successful again last year with a range of fundraising
events to cater for all tastes: a Colour Run, quiz, plant sale, Zumba classes and a premium gin
tasting evening and photographic competition. The Friends also cornered the market in hot drinks
and snacks every Saturday morning from the ‘Snack Shack’. In these testing financial times this
source of support and their financial contributions are invaluable and the Board thanks them for all
of their efforts in enhancing the experiences of our pupils. It is through their efforts that the school
was able to proceed with the new cashless cafeteria system which has been operational for all
pupils and staff since February.
The school’s connections with our former pupils remain strong; the Old Girls’ Association ran a
number of events including a film night in school, a night at the school musical Footloose, an
evening of fashion with Moira from Barn Owl Boutique and their annual dinner in the Templeton.
The Old Boys had another successful season with the 1st XV and the 2nd XV both won their
respective leagues and they held their annual dinner in the Ivory, Belfast.
In hockey, the U14 team reached the Ulster Hockey Junior Shield Final against Sullivan. After 16
penalty runs for each team, the match went to sudden death, where a final save from keeper Leah
Matchett secured the win for the girls. Congratulations go to members of the U14 team Leah
Matchett, Isabel Stafford-Santana and Lara Brines who were selected for the U15 North Eastern
Area Board team. Isabel and Lara were joined by Vanessa McAlister and Daire Ellis in their
selection for the Ulster U15 Talent Development Squad.
9The Board congratulates Scott Hutton who was selected for the Ulster U19 rugby team, Scott
Dennis was selected for the Ulster U18 Clubs squad and Jana McQuillan who was selected for the
Ulster U18 girls’ squad. The U12A team won the Hilditch Cup in a nail-biting final.
In May the Year 9 netball team, supported by some talented Year 8 pupils, were one of 24 schools
that participated in the Rockport invitational tournament. Our girls defeated Aquinas in the final to
win the cup. Netball success spanned the breadth of the school, as our minor, junior and
intermediate teams all reached the finals of the Northern Ireland league held back in April.
Ellie Rea and Jill smiley were selected for Netball NI’s National Long Squad, Eva Wilson and
Madison McFadden were presented with Netball NI U13 Academy awards and Natasha Nevins
was selected for the Northern Ireland U17 netball squad.
In cross country Conor Cunningham, Holly Diamond and Jayden Lloyd, along with the junior boys’
team, mini girls’ team and junior girls’ team, qualified for the Ulster Championships. Special
congratulations go to Conor Cunningham and Lara Brines who also qualified for the Irish finals.
In table tennis it was another excellent year for Conor Nugent who achieved bronze in the All
Ireland National Table Tennis Championships and represented Ireland in the subsequent Inter
Provincials. Conor also won the Ulster Men’s competition and the Ulster Schools’ U19 Individual
Championships. He also had great success when representing the school, helping the U18 team to
bronze at Ulster level as well as coaching the U13 team who achieved silver.
In golf, Taylor Morrison was selected for the Ulster U16 Golf Development Squad and qualified to
participate in the Irish U18 boys’ amateur championships.
The Board congratulates Jenni Beattie, Ruairidh Davis, Daniel Harvey and Ellen Millar who
competed in a Swim Ireland Level 3 National Qualifying Event in Bangor. Jenni won gold, silver
and bronze and qualified to compete in the Irish Division 1 Championships. Ruairidh, Daniel and
Ellen achieved personal bests and Ellen won silver in the medley. Daniel was selected as one of
40 swimmers for the Swim Ireland Regional Skills Academy and Ellen qualified to swim at the Irish
Summer Nationals in Dublin.
Our year 10 and 11 girls’ football teams participated in in the annual IFA football tournament
Mallusk. The girls had a great day at the competition in which 81 teams took part from across
Northern Ireland. In boys’ football Conor Cunningham was selected for the Northern Ireland U15
team to play in the UEFA U15 development tournament in Wales in August.
Athletics continues to be one of the school’s most popular and successful extra-curricular sports.
Last year at the Districts our pupils achieved 16 gold, 17 silver and 14 bronze medals, with 42
individuals and 5 relay teams competing for medals at the Ulster finals. Our individual Ulster
medallists were Leo McCrea, Scott Dennis, Zara Espie, Ethan Gardiner, sisters Erin and Holly
Diamond, Rhea Whittley and the mini boys’ relay team. This very impressive performance was
followed up with a long trip to Tullamore for the Irish Athletics Championships. Congratulations to
our Ulster and Irish medallists Zane McQuillan, Iona Macpherson, Joshua Knox and Isabel
Stafford-Santana. The Board congratulates our Year 8 Mini Boys’ Team who won silver in the 4 x
100m final and were crowned as overall Ulster Team Champions.
10They then went on to win team gold at the Ulster Schools’ Year 8 invitational competition. Joshua
Knox had another successful year culminating in his selection for the Schools’ International
Athletics Board team to represent Ireland. He was also selected to compete at the UK School
Games along with Christian Dukakins, Jill Smiley and Ellie Rea.
Following their gold and bronze medals at the Ulster Multi Event Championships, Finlay Stewart
and Jana McQuillan competed at the All Ireland Schools’ Combined Events. Special
congratulations to Finlay who competed with the Irish team in Glasgow where they took home
silver. Joshua and Finlay, along with Holly Diamond, represented Ulster in the inter-pros in Dublin.
Joseph Karauzum excelled in sailing yet again. Joseph represented Ireland at the World
Championships in Poland last year and was the recipient of a Mary Peter’s Coca Cola Thank You
Fund, which facilitates young people who excel in their sport to become level one coaches.
Daniel Corbett, a member of the RYA NI performance programme, was selected to participate in
this year’s Eric Twiname Championships at Rutland Water in May. James Corbett, was selected to
compete in the Topper British Nationals in Scotland during the summer.
In tennis the senior girls’ team of Laura Johnson, Lara Brines, Pippa Knowles and Annabel
McGrath reached the senior plate final against Methody.
Deputy Head Girl Rebecca Bell was presented the Exemplary Conduct and Unselfish Service
Award by Rotary Club of Newtownabbey.
The Board congratulates Talula Reid, Erin Peel and Holly McKinney who were presented with Billy
Reid bursaries from Ballyclare Lions. Talula won the £500 first prize which she used to continue
her Chinese studies. Erin and Holly were awarded with joint 3rd place and used their bursaries to
help with music expenses.
The Community Service Group worked exceptionally hard, giving back to those most in need in our
society. In May over 30 pupils from years 8-14 participated in the Belfast City Marathon Fun Run
for the charity BART (Belfast Arthroplasty Research Trust) who provide funding for research
projects in joint replacement for the benefit of patients in Musgrave Park Hospital and further afield.
Members of Community Service also presented a cheque for £1,000 to Women’s Aid - ABCLN
‘Make It Better’ Appeal to support the education of domestic abuse amongst children and young
people. The pupils chose to support this cause as the ‘Make It Better’ team has had a real impact
in our school through development programmes and a domestic violence awareness course. The
group also donated 40 handbags filled with gifts for Women’s Aid, for mums who are often
forgotten about at Christmas time. Junior members of Community Services presented a cheque
for £1,000 to Elaine and her guide dog Chaz from Angel Eyes. Last year our pupils continued to
support and volunteer at the Angel Eyes monthly Saturday youth Club.
Last year a number of sixth form boys decided to Brave the Shave for Macmillan Cancer Support
and raised almost £4,000 for Macmillan Northern Ireland.
The Board congratulates the Junior Council on winning the Education Authority’s ‘Plastic Waste in
Schools’ Competition. The council submitted a written article and a 3-minute video on their
proposals. They were invited to attend a ceremony and presented with cheque for £500 as
winners of the competition in which 40 schools competed. Members of the School Council
attended the EPSRC ACCEPT Transitions Project Launch in June at Queen’s University Belfast,
where they were invited to display a poster as winners of the competition.
11In February Reuben Bolton, Jordan McClelland and Talula Reid represented Spain at the
European Union Mock Council hosted by the British Council at Belfast City Hall. Twenty-eight
schools were represented by 84 students from across Northern Ireland. The pupils took part in
lively debates covering the relevant issues surrounding climate change and immigration.
Talula Reid took part in the Soroptimist International Northern Ireland 37th annual public speaking
competition where she achieved 3rd place. This competition encourages girls in years 12 and 13 to
play a more prominent role in public life and to improve their communication and articulation skills.
Our senior debating teams participated in the annual Concern Debates.
The Bar Mock Trial competition is a unique opportunity for students aged 15-18 from all over the
UK to gain a real insight into the justice system. The students take on the roles of barristers,
witnesses, clerks, ushers and jury members and are assisted in their preparations to appear in real
courts, in front of real judges by professional barristers. After months of preparation, with
invaluable assistance from Ms Kiley, the Belfast High School team attended the Royal Courts of
Justice for the NI regional heat. The team received high praise from the judges but unfortunately
did not make it to the final, in what was the school’s first outing to the competition for some time.
Once again, the school produced a very successful Young Enterprise team. The company,
Tenacity, produced a book aimed at children aged 5-10 which explains how children can recycle
and the importance of recycling. Tenacity won the area heat and were invited to officially launch
the book in Stormont. The group organised the event and managing directors Jack Storey and
Scott Hutton gave presentations about the work of the group and their book. The company also
attended the Northern Ireland Finals at Belfast City Hall where they were presented with the Disney
Creativity Award.
The Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme proved popular again and pupils were awarded 61 bronze,
10 silver and 5 gold awards.
In music Conor Brines, Naomh Clow and Erin Peel travelled to London and performed at the Royal
Albert Hall with the City of Belfast Youth Orchestra to provide the finale to the Music for Youth
Proms concerts. Naomh and Erin also performed with the Ulster Youth Orchestra in the Ulster Hall
in August. Rebecca Jenkins and Maddie Elliott successfully auditioned for the Ulster Youth Choir.
Our Chamber Choir participated in the BBC NI Choir of the Year competition. The school’s
production, Footloose, was a great success.
Our pupils have had many opportunities to take part in subject related competitions and events.
Last year there was one area which captured the imagination of the whole school - Robotics. The
team began their journey in the Northern Ireland heats of the First Lego League, a global science
and technology competition. They then progressed to the UK Finals in Bristol where they earned a
place at the World Festival in Detroit. The team had a fantastic time and came away with the IET
Outstanding Teamwork Award.
Reuben Bolton, Jay Ford, Andrew Huey, Annabel McGrath, Matthew Mullen and Niamh Wait were
selected for our Sentinus Research and Design team. The pupils worked on the design of a low-
cost water disinfection technique to be implemented in Mexico. They were presented with a Young
Scientists’ Award and were selected to represent Northern Ireland in Birmingham at the Big Bang
Fair.
12The Board congratulates all pupils who achieved gold, silver or bronze certificates in the junior,
intermediate or senior maths challenges and Joseph Lismore, our senior gold winner.
It was also an exciting year for the school’s aspiring chemists with students representing the school
in a number of events and competitions at Queen’s University. A number of our senior pupils
achieved certificates for their achievements in the UK RSC Chemistry Olympiad. Congratulations to
Adam Crilly and Dieon Karikunnel who achieved silver awards.
There were a number of residential trips which took place last year. The rugby team went on tour to
Glasgow, the Year 8s had their annual trip to Paris, the ski trip to Boston was a huge success, the
CU had a great time in sunny Castlewellan, County Down and our junior hockey and netball
players also enjoyed an end of season activity weekend in Tullymore.
There were also subject trips to Rome for classics students and to the World War I Battlefields for
those studying history.
The Board thanks all staff who have worked tirelessly to support our pupils so well and for
constantly going above and beyond to ensure that the school continues to provide great
opportunities and experiences both inside and outside the classroom.
13Examination Results 2018-19
Summary of Public Examination Results in 2019 (See tables for subject statistics):
Year 12 (GCSE)
Total number of subject entries: 1215
Average number of subject entries per pupil 9
Overall percentage pass rate: 97%
Percentage achieving 7 or more grades A*-C: 94%
Percentage achieving 5 or more grades A*-C: 96%
% achieving 7 or more grades A*-C (inc Eng/Maths): 94%
% achieving 5 or more grades A*-C (inc Eng/Maths): 96%
Year 14 (GCE)
Total number of subject entries: 307
Average number of subject entries per pupil: 3
Overall percentage pass rate: 100%
Percentage achieving 3 or more grades A-C: 78%
Percentage achieving 2 or more grades A-E: 100%
TREND DATA
GCSE and GCSE Equivalent Subjects - *following permitted
2016/17 2017/18 2018/19
exclusions
Percentage of school on SEN register 5.4 5.6 6.2
Percentage of school pupils entitled to FSM 8.8 9.4 8.1
*Percentage of Year 12 taking GCSE and Equivalents in at least 7 subjects 99 99 98
*Percentage of Year 12 obtaining Grades C or above in at least 7 subjects 84 92 94
NI average for all grammar schools for 7 passes A*-C 92 91 91
*Percentage of Year 12 obtaining Grades C or above in at least 7 subjects 83 90 94
including GCSE English and GCSE Mathematics
NI average for all grammar schools for 7 A*-C passes including E and M 90 90 90
*Percentage of Year 12 obtaining Grades C or above in at least 5 subjects 96 94 96
*Percentage of Year 12 entitled to FSM achieving 5 or more GCSEs
Grades A* - C or equivalent (including GCSE English and GCSE 83 90 89
Mathematics)
Year 14
GCE A Level or equivalent 2016/17 2017/18 2018/19
Percentage of Year 14 taking A levels and Equivalents in at least 3
100 99 100
subjects
Percentage of Year 14 obtaining Grades C or above in at least 3 A levels 82 82 78
The NI average for all grammar schools achieving 3 A*-C 78 78 78
14GCSE RESULTS 2019 (FULL COURSE)
SUBJECT Entry A* A B C* C D E F U
Art and No 7 12 5 2 1 1 0 0 0
28
Design % 25.0 42.9 17.9 7.1 3.6 3.6 0.0 0.0 0.0
No 10 21 4 1 1 0 0 0 0
Biology 37
% 27.0 56.8 10.8 2.7 2.7 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
Business No 7 14 9 5 3 4 0 1 0
43
Studies % 16.3 32.6 20.9 11.6 7.0 9.3 0.0 2.3 0.0
No 19 15 1 1 0 0 0 0 0
Chemistry 36
% 52.8 41.7 2.8 2.8 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
Child No 3 9 6 3 1 0 0 0 0
22
Development % 13.6 40.9 27.3 13.6 4.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
Digital No 2 3 3 0 0 1 0 0 0
9
Technology % 22.2 33.3 33.3 0.0 0.0 11.1 0.0 0.0 0.0
No 2 6 4 1 0 0 0 0 0
Drama 13
% 15.4 46.2 30.8 7.7 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
English No 16 45 44 23 7 2 1 1 0
139
Language % 11.5 32.4 31.7 16.5 5.0 1.4 0.7 0.7 0.0
English No 16 44 41 18 10 3 0 1 0
133
Literature % 12.0 33.1 30.8 13.5 7.5 2.3 0.0 0.8 0.0
Food and No 1 5 2 5 2 0 1 0 0
16
Nutrition % 6.3 31.3 12.5 31.3 12.5 0.0 6.3 0.0 0.0
No 12 30 10 14 12 3 0 0 0
French 81
% 14.8 37.0 12.3 17.3 14.8 3.7 0.0 0.0 0.0
Further No 14 19 10 4 1 0 0 0 0
48
Mathematics % 29.2 39.6 20.8 8.3 2.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
No 28 21 5 2 2 0 2 0 0
Geography 60
% 46.7 35.0 8.3 3.3 3.3 0.0 3.3 0.0 0.0
No 1 4 6 4 3 3 1 0 0
German 22
% 4.5 18.2 27.3 18.2 13.6 13.6 4.5 0.0 0.0
No 6 19 10 4 3 2 1 0 0
History 45
% 13.3 42.2 22.2 8.9 6.7 4.4 2.2 0.0 0.0
No 37 55 37 6 2 2 0 0 0
Mathematics 139
% 26.6 39.6 26.6 4.4 1.4 1.4 0.0 0.0 0.0
No 2 4 5 1 1 1 0 0 0
Music 14
% 14.3 28.6 35.7 7.1 7.1 7.1 0.0 0.0 0.0
No 10 19 7 0 1 0 0 0 0
Physics 37
% 27.0 51.4 18.9 0.0 2.7 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
Religious No 3 4 1 2 0 1 0 0 0
11
Studies % 27.3 36.4 9.1 18.2 0.0 9.1 0.0 0.0 0.0
Science No 31 53 42 21 12 1 0 0 0
160
(Double Award) % 19.4 33.1 26.3 13.1 7.5 0.6 0.0 0.0 0.0
Science No 1 1 3 1 0 0 0 0 0
6
(Single Award) % 16.7 16.7 50.0 16.7 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
No 7 13 5 1 2 0 0 0 0
Spanish 28
% 25.0 46.4 17.9 3.6 7.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
Technology and No 0 5 6 1 1 0 0 0 0
13
Design % 0.0 38.5 46.2 7.7 7.7 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
SUBJECT Entry 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
Classical No 2 3 3 3 2 1 0 0 0
14
Civilisation % 14.3 21.4 21.4 21..4 14.3 7.1 0.0 0.0 0.0
Computer No 7 3 3 1 1 1 0 1 0
17
Science % 41.2 17.6 17.6 5.9 5.9 5.9 0.0 5.9 0.0
No 4 2 3 2 0 0 0 0 0
Electronics 11
% 36.4 18.2 27.3 18.2 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
No 3 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0
Latin 6
% 50.0 33.3 16.7 0.0 0. 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
Physical No 2 4 7 6 5 1 2 0 0
27
Education % 7.4 14.8 25.9 22.2 18.5 3.7 7.4 0.0 0.0
15A LEVEL RESULTS 2019
Total Grade Grade Grade Grade Grade Grade Un-
SUBJECT Entry A* A B C D E graded
Art and No 1 2 1 1 0 0 0
5
Design % 20.0 40.0 20.0 20.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
No 2 6 10 5 1 0 0
Biology 24
% 8.3 25.0 41.7 20.8 4.2 0.0 0.0
Business No 2 6 11 8 1 0 0
28
Studies % 7.1 21.4 39.3 28.6 3.6 0.0 0.0
No 5 9 2 4 2 0 0
Chemistry 22
% 22.7 40.9 9.1 18.2 9.1 0.0 0.0
Classical No 0 2 2 7 2 1 0
14
Civilisation % 0.0 14.3 14.3 50.0 14.3 7.1 0.0
Computer No 1 1 3 0 0 0 0
5
Science % 20.0 20.0 60.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
Digital No 2 2 1 3 4 1 0
13
Technology % 15.4 15.4 7.7 23.1 30.8 7.7 0.0
No 2 1 2 0 1 0 0
Electronics 6
% 33.3 16.7 33.3 0.0 16.7 0.0 0.0
English No 0 9 7 5 0 0 0
21
Literature % 0.0 42.9 33.3 23.8 0.0 0.0 0.0
No 0 2 2 3 0 0 0
French 7
% 0.0 28.6 28.6 42.9 0.0 0.0 0.0
No 3 8 13 1 4 0 0
Geography 29
% 10.3 27.6 44.8 3.4 13.8 0.0 0.0
No 0 2 0 0 0 0 0
German 2 % 0.0 100.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
Government No 0 3 5 1 0 0 0.0
9
and Politics % 0.0 33.3 55.6 11.1 0.0 0,0 0.0
No 0 1 1 1 0 0 0
History 3
% 0.0 33.3 33.3 33.3 0.0 0.0 0.0
No 0 0 0 1 0 0 0
Latin 1
% 0.0 0.0 0.0 100.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
No 4 17 9 2 2 0 0
Mathematics 34
% 11.8 50.0 26.5 5.9 5.9 0,0 0.0
Media No 5 2 6 3 0 0 0
16
Studies % 31.3 12.5 37.5 18.8 0.0 0.0 0.0
No 0 1 2 4 0 0 0
Music 7
% 0.0 14.3 28.6 57.1 0.0 0.0 0.0
Nutrition and No 0 1 2 2 1 1 0
7
Food Science % 0.0 14.3 28.6 28.6 14.3 14.3 0.0
Physical No 0 1 3 7 0 0 0
11
Education % 0.0 9.1 27.3 63.6 0.0 0.0 0.0
No 4 3 5 1 3 1 0
Physics 17
% 23.5 17.6 29.4 5.9 17.6 5.9 0.0
Religious No 0 1 5 3 0 0 0
9
Studies % 0.0 11.1 55.6 33.3 0.0 0.0 0.0
No 0 1 7 2 0 0 0
Spanish 10
% 0.0 10.0 70.0 20.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
Technology No 0 0 1 3 2 0 0
6
and Design % 0.0 0.0 16.7 50.0 33.3 0.0 0.0
No 0 1 0 0 0 0 0
Turkish 1
% 0.0 100.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
16Leavers’ Destinations
Year 14 Leavers Destinations 2019 (101 pupils)
Higher Education 78
Further Education 7
Gap Year 11
Internship 4
Scholarship 1
17Curriculum 2018-19
The school curriculum is designed to provide the broadest possible choice of subjects and
experience for pupils who can benefit from them.
In Year 8, pupils study the following subjects – English, Mathematics, French, Geography, History,
Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Art, Home Economics, Technology & Design, Personal Development,
Physical Education, Religious Studies, Latin, Music, Drama, ICT, Employability and Citizenship.
In Year 9, pupils continue with the same subjects but are also introduced to Spanish and German.
In Year 10, pupils may choose to study either German or Spanish and also select two subjects
from Home Economics, Technology & Design, Classical Civilisation, Music and Latin whilst
continuing with all of their previous subjects. They also had short introductory courses in Business,
Computing, Financial Maths, Careers and Critical Thinking.
In Years 11 and 12, pupils prepare for and take their GCSE examinations. All pupils study English
Language, English Literature and Mathematics and a modern language (French, German or
Spanish). Science options are Biology, Chemistry or Physics or Single Award or Double Award
Science. GCSEs are also offered in Art & Design, Business Studies, Child Development, Classical
Civilisation, Computer Science, Digital Technology, Drama, Electronics, Food & Nutrition, Further
Mathematics, Geography, History, Latin, Leisure, Travel and Tourism. Music, Physical Education,
Religious Studies and Technology & Design. Further Mathematics can be taken as a tenth subject.
In Sixth Form, pupils study a minimum of 3 subjects to A level drawn from a list of 25 different
subjects. In a very small number of subjects, pupils do not sit an AS qualification, but instead follow
a 2 year A level linear qualification. In addition, some pupils follow a course leading to an additional
GCSE or an accreditation in Key Skills ICT. Chinese, Philosophy and Young Enterprise are among
the other enrichment options available.
The school is fully compliant with the Entitlement Framework at both Key Stage 4 and Post-16.
Throughout Years 8 to 12, classes in Religious Studies are provided for every pupil, but parents
who have a conscientious objection may withdraw their children. Every school day includes a
collective Act of Worship.
Careers Education is organised by a team of teachers, supplemented by the Careers Officers from
the Training and Employment Agency, who provide information and advice for all pupils from Year
10 upwards. As well as Careers classes and interviews, the School has a full programme of special
visits and work experience scheme designed to help pupils make informed career choices. All
Year 13 pupils participate in a course which deals with interview and communication skills, careers
advice and information about tertiary level education. In Year 14 pupils follow an enrichment
programme which includes UCAS preparation, talks by visiting speakers from HE, FE and private
companies.
Assessment and reporting, for all pupils, includes at least one full session of internal examinations
per year followed by a detailed written report, issued via Parent App. In all years, parents also have
the opportunity to meet teachers on Parents’ afternoons.
18A wide range of co-curricular activities is available to all pupils who are encouraged to participate
for enjoyment and self-development. In excess of 30 clubs and societies function each year
providing for artistic, cultural, sporting and other interests. These include:
Animal House, Athletics, Badminton, Book Club, Breakfast Club, Chemistry Club, Chess, Chinese
Club, Choir (Junior/Senior/Chamber), Christian Union, Circuits, Community Service, Computing,
Craft Club, Creative Writing, Cricket, Cross-Country, Debating and Current Affairs, Duke of
Edinburgh Award Scheme, Eco Club, Equestrian Events, Film Club, Folk Group, Football, Golf,
Gymnastics, Greek as a Treat Club, Hockey, Homework Club, International Club, Junior Drama,
Lego Club, Let’s Cook Club, Netball, Orchestra (including Junior Strings and Wind Band), Rugby,
Sound and Light, Swimming, Table Tennis and Tennis. Clubs and Societies meet during the
school day, after school and in some cases evenings and weekends.
Pupils have many opportunities to extend their subject knowledge through activities beyond the
classroom and are encouraged to stretch themselves by entering competitions such as the
Chemistry Olympiad, Bar Mock Trial, Mock European Council, UK Maths Challenge, Sentinus
Research and Development, NI Schools and Concern Debates and Sutton Trust and Oxbridge
Summer Schools. Pupils studying Business Studies are encouraged to become involved with the
Young Enterprise Scheme, setting up and running a mini company. Our companies have enjoyed
considerable success in this area, frequently reaching the Northern Ireland Finals.
19Pastoral Care, Safeguarding and SEN
Our Pastoral Care System is an essential part of our school curriculum and there is a close working
relationship between the academic and pastoral structures in the school.
The Vice Principal heads up the pastoral care of pupils within the School, working alongside the
three Heads of Key Stage and seven Heads of Year. Heads of Year in turn work with a team of
Form Tutors from Year 8 to Year 14 who support and work with the pupils throughout their time at
Belfast High School, focusing on the personal, social and academic development of each pupil.
The Safeguarding Team, consisting of the Vice Principal, Senior Teachers, Principal, Chairman of
the Board of Governors and designated Governor, takes responsibility for all safeguarding and
child protection issues within the school. Belfast High School has a fully qualified school nurse who
provides medical care for all pupils. In addition, a counsellor from an external agency provides
further support for pupils through weekly sessions. Belfast High School also works closely with
professional external support agencies to support our pupils.
Our experienced Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator works to ensure that those pupils with
additional educational needs receive the appropriate support. All pupils registered with additional
educational needs are provided with an Individual Learning Plan. Classroom Assistants work
alongside subject teachers to provide additional individual support for pupils.
Support is also provided by Form Prefects and Sixth Form Mentors who assist individual pupils
requiring additional subject-specific or general organisational support. Prefects also assist younger
pupils through various extended roles which enhances the extra-curricular provision throughout
school.
Weekly assemblies promote a sense of community and provide one way to celebrate our pupil
achievements. These are led by staff and pupils and encourage engagement with a range of
social, moral and spiritual themes. We aim to foster positive attitudes, individual responsibility and
respect for the whole school community. These themes are also explored through weekly Personal
Development classes delivered by the Form Tutors and link closely with the Careers Information
Advice and Guidance, Citizenship, Employability and Health Education Programmes.
We are committed to creating a caring and supportive community built on positive relationships and
open communication between pupils, staff and home. Parents/guardians are encouraged to
contact the relevant Head of Year at any time if they have concerns on any aspects related to their
child’s education at Belfast High School.
20Security of Pupils, Staff and Premises
The entire school site is secured by fencing with access gates which are open and closed at pre-
arranged times by the Facilities staff.
Access to the school buildings is controlled by magnetically locking outer doors which can be
opened at set times and at other times opened by key fobs. The buildings are opened and locked
by the Facilities staff at agreed times.
Teaching staff are on duty before the start of school, at break time and lunch time and in the bus
park at the end of school, with responsibility for supervising pupils.
All visitors must report to reception on arrival and are required to carry a visitor pass at all times.
All pupils are registered during form time and every lesson throughout the day.
All internal areas of the School are accessible for all pupils following the installation of a lift in the
Music Department which was completed in December 2018.
Upgrading access to the front entrance will be the next priority, working with the Department of
Education.
21Links with the Community
The School uses a variety of means to facilitate a continuing process of consultation with parents
through face to face meetings with teachers and on-line surveys for each year group. Parents,
Governors and local primary school principals receive the quarterly newsletter electronically in
addition to a range of information shared through Parent App and official social media channels.
Links with the wider community are also developed through the School’s involvement in the
Newtownabbey Learning Community.
The following departments have consistent and sustained interaction with statutory agencies,
educational institutions, local political representatives, local, national and international businesses:
Careers, Pastoral Care an SEN, Sciences and Technology, Business Studies, PE, Music, History,
Politics and Citizenship.
The Community Services group co-ordinates pupil fundraising in support of a wide range of
causes, with thousands of pounds regularly raised by way of special events and donated to a
variety of charities.
22Financial Statement
Secondary Revenue Account 2018-19
INCOME
Department of Education Funding 4,242,538
Voluntary Contributions 74,547
Other Funding 119,448 4,436,533
EXPENDITURE
Teaching Staff 3,053,390 (68.82%)
Non-Teaching Staff 855,633 (19.29%)
Ground Rent, Water, Insurance, Fuel, Electricity, Cleaning 183,979 (4.15%)
Miscellaneous 132,148 (2.99%)
Maintenance 83,734 (1.89%)
Examination Fees 83,848 (1.89%)
Pupils’ Textbooks and Stationery 72,470 (1.63%)
Sports, Games and Travelling 20,777 (0.47%) 4,485,977
Net Deficit (49,444)
Capital Fees Account 2018-19
INCOME
Capital Fees 72,920
Capital Grant Income 476,869
Other Capital Income 0
Total Income 549,789
EXPENDITURE
Interest on Loans (41,626)
Depreciation (179,801)
Bad Debt Provision (2,480) (223,907)
Net Surplus 325,882
General Revenue Account 2018-19
INCOME
Gift Aid on Voluntary Receipts 13,661
EXPENDITURE 0
Net Surplus 13,661
23School Development Days 2018-19
Date Key Focus
Staff Meetings - GDPR, SEN, development planning, PRSD objectives,
Parent App training, Anaphylaxis training
26 October 2018 Departmental Meetings – targets and strategies to support pupils.
Teaching and Learning working groups.
Head of Year Meetings – Data, Mentoring.
Staff Meeting – safeguarding update, staff training evaluations.
SIMS training.
4 January 2019
Departmental Meetings – GCSE and A Level booklets, reporting, school
website, Asset Register.
Teaching and Learning working groups.
Middle Leader meetings.
21 January 2019
Departmental meetings - Analysis of winter exam results, actions for
improvement.
SEN review and update.
18 February 2019 Mid-year review of departmental/post-holder, key stage action plans.
Preparation for third progress update to parents.
Teaching and Learning working groups.
7 June 2019 Departmental meetings – review of actions plans, evaluation of
implementation of new GCSE and A Level specifications.
School Policies
School policies are available on request from the Principal’s PA or can be accessed on the school
website.
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