Week A

Welcome to Highdown School
 

Transition to secondary school is one of the biggest and most significant changes in a child's life. This is why, at Highdown School and Sixth Form Centre, we place the upmost importance on getting it right to ensure all of our new Year 7 students are happy, motivated and primed to be the best that they can be.

Our approach to transition consists of a bespoke programme of events that is tailored to enable all new students to feel the warm welcome Highdown offers and to develop an awareness and application of key attributes that make a good learner. We look to foster in new students our core values of aspiration, respect and excellence: Highdown students ARE bold, creative, unafraid to take risks in their learning, believe in their abilities and demonstrate resilience no matter the challenge in front of them. Our aim is to instil these skills in our students from the very beginning so that they can go on to be the best that they can be.

We look forward to meeting you in person in September.
 

FAQs:

When will we be able to sign up for clubs and extracurricular activities?

All of the clubs for the term will be shown here once the term has started. We encourage students to sign up for as many as they want.

Will my child be in a Mentor Group with their friends?

We try to put students with at least one of their friends. Information is collated from the primary school as to which groups work well together. We also remind new students that the transition to secondary school is a great opportunity to make new friendship groups.

Where do I get a locker from?

The lockers are available to purchase at the start of term through ParentMail and cost a one-off payment of £10. Once purchased, keys will be handed out by mentors.

When can I start using the cashless catering system?

If you have ticked on the application form giving permission for your child to have their fingerprint taken, students will be taken to the IT Department on their first day to have this done. Once this has been processed, they can start using the system after parents have received the registration email and followed the instructions.

Can we try sample uniform on at the school?

We do not keep any uniform at Highdown as this is dealt with by SWI online. They have a sizing guide to help you when ordering.

Who do I contact with specific queries about my child once they have started Year 7?

You will be given the email addresses of your child’s Mentor and their Head of Achievement. Please email if possible as staff are usually teaching between 8.40am and 3.05pm, and they will get back to you as soon as they can.

Can my child bring a mobile phone to school?

Mobile phones are not permitted in school. If they are brought in, they must remain turned off and in their bag throughout the duration of the day, including break and lunch. 

Students will have access to ICT as they will be using BYoD.

Please note that all mobile phones brought into school are students' responsibility. Highdown does not accept any liability for loss or damage whilst in or on route to/from the academy.

I have enjoyed learning new subjects and meeting new people. All the teachers are also super nice and helpful. As well as that all the students here help you find your way around the school.