Annual Report

of the Board of Governors

2015-2016

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Board of Governors Designation

Aquinas Diocesan Grammar School

2015/2016

Name Category

Mr Terry McDaid (Chair) Trustee Representative

Mr Peter Coll Trustee Representative

Mr Patrick Leggett Trustee Representative

Mrs Joan Cronin DE Representative

Mrs Geraldine Goodall DE Representative

Mr Brian Jamison DE Representative

Mrs Helen Macklin-Burns Elected Parent Representative

Mrs Margaret Hart Elected Staff Representative

Mr Barry Kelly (Principal) Secretary to Board of Governors

The Aquinas Diocesan Grammar School Community is very proud of its catholic ethos. It is very difficult to do justice to our ethos by listing all the events that take place. It is best experienced by being here as a pupil or a teacher on a daily basis or as a parent or friend by attending the wide variety of celebrations that take place throughout the school year.

It is best reflected in the mutual respect that is evident between all members of our community. As a Catholic school we welcome students from a wide variety of backgrounds – accepting that there are different faith backgrounds and none. Nevertheless we are Catholic in our welcome and in the Gospel values we try and live up to in our daily relationships in school and with all our partners in the local community and beyond.

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CONTENTS

Page NumberAccounts/Finances 4Art & Design 5Biology 8Business Studies 10CEIAG 12Chemistry 16Community Link 18Drama and Theatre Studies 19English 22French 24Fundraising 27Geography 28Government & Politics 30History 32Home Economics 34ICT 35Irish 37Mathematics and Numeracy 39Moving Image Arts 43Music 46Physical Education 48Physics 51Religious Studies 52Science 55Sociology 56Spanish 57Technology & Design 59Year 8 62Year 9 64Year 10 66Year 11 67Year 12 68Year 13 69Year 14 70

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ACCOUNTS/FINANCES AGM 2015-2016

2016 2015£ £

INCOMEDepartment of Education Grants 4,319,588 4,204,015Other Income 85,037 62,531

4,404,625 4,266,546

EXPENDITURETeaching Staff Costs 2,684,940 2,651,095Non Teaching Staff Costs 1,186,451 1,154,965Other Operating Costs 438,565 446,443

4,309,956 4,292,503

Operating surplus 94,669 (25,957)Bank Interest Payable (3,524) (4,007)SURPLUS FOR THE FINANCIAL YEAR 91,145 (29,964)

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ART & DESIGN AGM 2015-2016

The number of students studying Art and Design in 2015/16 are as follows;Key Stage Nos. of Students Studying Art and DesignKey Stage 3 350Key Stage 4 37Post-16 13

Staffing StructureThe department consisted of one full-time teacher and two part-time teachers in addition to a part time ancillary member of staff who was employed throughout the year sharing housekeeping roles with general duties around the department. The department was joined by a student teacher of art and design from February until April 2015 and a relief technician from who was employed for 10 hours per week in the art and design department.ExaminationsWe continued to follow the CCEA specifications at GCSE, AS and A2 Levels and one of our A2 Level students and two of our AS Level students achieved full marks at these levels which merits them the position of Joint Top Candidates in Northern Ireland.

Aquinas Art and Design Results 2016Art and Design NI Grammar School Average/Aquinas Grammar AverageLevel and Grade Band NI Grammar School

Average(CCEA 2016 provisional)

Aquinas Grammar Average

GCSE A*/A Grades 51.9% 70.5%GCSE A* - B Grades

78.2% 100%

AS Level A Grades 42% 80%AS Level A /B Grades 76.4% 100%A2 Level A* Grades 17.7% 40%A2 Level A*/A Grades 47.2% 80%A2 Level A* - B Grades

79.7% 100%

Celebrating ExcellenceTwo of our students exhibited in the CCEA “true colours” exhibition in the Ulster Museum. This exhibition profiles the best and most interesting work from GCSE, AS and A2 levels in Art and Design across Northern Ireland and we were delighted to have two units of work selected; one from a GCSE student and one from an AS student. We enjoyed the opening of this exhibition in January 2016 and returned with our Year 11, 12, 13 and 14 students to celebrate the display of work of the two Aquinas students. One student was awarded the “Les Jones Award” by the Art Society of Ulster following the exhibition of his GCSE work in the Ulster Museum and was chosen to exhibit his work alongside professional artists in their Summer 2016 exhibition.

Focus for Department 2015-2016The main focus for the department in 2015-2016 was in line with the school development plan. We explored strategies of Quality Assurance for use within our department and integrated the use of I-pads into our teaching of art and design.

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Links with Community/Outside AgenciesWe fostered connections with the local community through our art workshops with primary school children in December 2015 and we promoted our department through the continuation of our after school junior art club, which was ably and enthusiastically led by two Teaching and Learning Assistants.

We also promoted the art and design department through the exhibition of student work in the Mall and Foyer areas.

Two Year 8 and 9 students were amongst 12 winners in the East-Side Arts “CS Lewis Festival Art Competition” in which they designed a character from “The Chronicles of Narnia”. They were presented with their prizes in Connswater Shopping Centre where their work was exhibited on public display.Our A level students entered their work for the Saatchi Gallery School Art Prize, an online competition that provides students with the opportunity to exhibit their work on a public forum through the Saatchi website.

CEIAGWe continue to work extensively with our senior students on their portfolios for applications to further and higher education art related courses and conduct mock interviews to assist them in their preparation. Aquinas A-level students visited UU’s Foundation Art Exhibition in addition to the Faculty of Art, Design and the Built Environment’s Information Evening. They also enjoyed a number of presentations by visitors to the art and design department; Ms Lisa Dynan outlined her career and showcased her work as an Illustrator, Edel Lyttle gave a presentation on her experience of Graphic Design and Lucie McLaughlin discussed her experience as a student of Central St Martin’s offering valuable advice on bursaries and how to survive university and student life.

We welcomed Ms Eilis Bergin, Foundation Course Director, Belfast Metropolitan College, Mr Liam McComish Course Director of Graphic Design, UU, Mr Pol O Labhradha, Methodist College, Belfast, representing a career in Teaching and Miss Emma Dunn, representing Architecture to join us in Aquinas’ Careers’ Insight Evening which proved very enjoyable and beneficial.

Year 11-14 students gleaned insight into careers within art and design in their visit to the RUA Exhibition in the Ulster Museum in October 2015. Year 13 and 14 students enjoyed an intaglio printing workshop in December 2015 which gave them the opportunity to work alongside practising artists in Seacourt Print Workshop and to see successful business opportunities within the field of art and design. Year 11 students also created prints during a visit by Seacourt Print Workshop in June 2016.

KS3 students researched Graphic Design in preparation for printing their Pop Art T-shirt and Year 8 students researched architecture, giving both year groups insight into possible career paths within art and design.

Professional developmentA member of Aquinas art and design department attended the GCSE Agreement trial, the AS Agreement Trial and the A2 Agreement Trial. One teacher was employed by CCEA as an A2 Moderator and two teachers were employed by CCEA as an AS Moderator. All members of staff were encouraged to engage in professional development where relevant and possible.

Summary of main highlights:

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KS3The Golden Thread Gallery visited Aquinas Art and Design Department with “Radio Relay Workshop” in June 2016 working on Public Art Performance with Year 9 Art and Design students. This workshop drew on knowledge and experiences across a number of curricular areas including, Science, Technology and Design and Geography in addition to Art and Design.

KS3 art club students grouped together to create 4 large billboards for the Belfast City Council Anti-Litter billboard competition in March 2016. Their colourful and eye-catching billboards will be displayed around the school.

The Year 8 “Welcome to Aquinas” graphic design poster continued with the work of the winning entrants published on the covers of the introductory booklet for our in-coming Year 8 students.Two students (Year 8 and Year 9) were awarded with a Certificate of Commendation in the Children’s Texaco Art Competition 2016.

KS4 and KS5Staff and all examination level students enjoyed an educational visit to the Ulster Museum in October 2015. We viewed the RUA Exhibition, which students found to be beneficial in addressing Objective 1 of the CCEA assessment criteria.

One Year 13 student was awarded with a Certificate of Commendation in the Children’s Texaco Art Competition 2016.

The department continues to offer after school tuition and support for exam students on a weekly basis. The KS3 art and design club continued and proved very successful. We are delighted that art and design remains a successful choice in Aquinas and that many of our students pursue art and design related courses in further and higher education, leading to careers in this field.

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BIOLOGY AGM 2015-2016

There are two specialist teachers within the Biology department. The number of pupils taught in each year is given below.

Year No. of pupils

2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17

10 Bio 119 118 118 12011 DA 36 28 20 2911 Bio 61 73 70 6112 DA 32 65 13 2412 Bio 59 62 71 8013 Bio 43 37 32 2714 BioTotal

35 33 26 35385 386 351 376

Results overview for 2015 is as follows:

A2: A*,1.0% ,A, 28.6 %, A*-B, 61.5% B, A-C 100%AS: A, 40 %, A-B, 56.7%, A-C, 76.7 %GCSE: A* 9.7%, A*-A 45.8% , A*-B 80.6%,

Departmental three year average results compare favourably with N. Ireland figures for the same time period.

At GCSE, and GCE the CCEA specification is used.

The department continues in its efforts to raise achievement and this is reflected in the results above. Pupils who were underachieving particularly at AS/A2 and GCSE were identified and given additional help both during and after school hours. Pupils taking re-sits at AS/A2 were given additional classes at mutually agreeable times and after school. Lunch time sessions were also given on EMPA skills and “How Science Works”. Core material in Double Award and Biology has been supplemented with extension materials for gifted and talented pupils and support resources were also extended for those with special educational needs. Continued extensive use has been made of the shared area and it has been completely reorganised in order to disseminate good practice.

The department has continued to focus on sharing good practice and improving the quality of feedback to our pupils. Standard cover sheets for tracking assessments and homeworks continue to be developed. Pupil self-evaluation and peer evaluation sheets are also in use.

Careers in biology are promoted during classroom teaching and through the prominent display of wall posters. Reference to careers is also made in the options booklets and has been integrated into schemes of work. Some topics in GCSE and AS/AS have obvious vocational implications and every opportunity was taken to raise pupil awareness of career issues. Careers materials from the Royal Society and the Society of Biology are being used with A’level students.

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Departmental members continue to be vigilant regarding staff development opportunities particularly in relation to the new specifications to be introduced.

This year, the department again hosted students from the “Science Ambassadors” scheme. They visited the department on two occasions. The fresh resources developed will benefit our pupils for some time to come.

Highlights of the year have been the field work exercises conducted with Yr 12 and Yr 13. As far as “value added” is concerned, we engage in a range of activities, talks, competitions and educational visits. The EcoSchool programme is well attended.The school based electronic news sheet “BioBubble” was used with A’level pupils as a means of achieving stretch and challenge. A wide range of web based A’level resources provide biological content, self-tests, and feedback. Showbie was frequently used with all examination classes

Members of the department look forward to the future with great enthusiasm and are eager to implement the 2016-17 school development plan. It is our aim to continue to be a vibrant, self-improving department through the sharing of good practice and focusing on the needs and aspirations of all our pupils. This will continue to be achieved through the provision of high quality learning and teaching, effective leadership and community involvement. It is our intention that every learner will fulfil his or her full potential at each stage of her or his development. The interests of the pupils will be at the centre of all efforts to improve educational achievement and address under-achievement. Consequently, a child-centred approach and provision for a diversity of need will continue to be evident in all our work. Quality assurance will be employed in the self-evaluation cycle with the aim of improving learning and teaching, the experiences of the pupils and the standards they achieve.

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BUSINESS STUDIES AGM 2015-2016

The Business Studies department has 2 members of staff. In 2015-16 we taught 65 pupils at Key Stage 4 and 37 at Key Stage 5.

At Advanced Level the Year 14 pupils studied the CCEA Business Studies specification for the first time. In 2016 there was a 95% pass rate at grades A*-C. This compares favourably with the NI Grammar School average of 85.8%. At AS level 100% achieved grades A-C. At GCSE level the pupils cover the CCEA specification. The results were again favourable with 93.5% of the pupils achieving grades A*-B in comparison to the NI Grammar School Average of 70.9%.

In line with the School Development Plan, ‘Together Towards Improvement’ and ‘Every School a Good School’ documents, one focus of the Business Studies department in 2015-16 was to engage in iPad training [app usage] at the appropriate level; beginner, intermediate or advanced and attend the relevant training sessions. A second focus was to participate in classroom observation or a learning walk in which the use of the iPad was a focus (feedback to include missed opportunities for AfL). This was followed up with careful evaluation of resources to ensure their relevance and effectiveness.

Within the Business Studies department we try our best to link the subject content to the development of career thinking. In conjunction with Young Enterprise NI the Business Studies department runs a variety of programmes through which the pupils have the opportunity to work and interact with people from a range of careers. The Company Workshop enables year 13 students to meet and network with Managing Directors, Marketing Managers, Accountants and Sales consultants as well as ICT specialists, giving them an insight into these occupations. AS Business Studies pupils set up and run their own company which involves applying for functional roles. Job Descriptions and Person Specifications are available for each functional position - those students wanting to hold the post of Managing Director give a presentation and are formally interviewed by our Business Adviser. All other posts are interviewed by the function directors from the previous year’s company who know exactly what the post entails. This helps the pupils to develop the skills and capabilities necessary for employability including communication, numeracy, Information and Communications Technology (ICT), working with others, problem solving, decision making, self-management and managing information.

Throughout KS4 and KS5 pupils investigate recruitment and retention procedures taking into account the rights and responsibilities of employees and employers. They consider how employers and employees might maintain an effective working environment as well as investigating the increasing social responsibility of business in the community.

The Business Studies department participated in the Careers Insight Evening in February with entrepreneurs and speakers from a wide variety of businesses and careers in attendance. This included many past pupils who came back to share their experiences with current pupils.

In May and June the Head of Department attended three events. The first was an Open Day in the new Baker & McKenzie offices in City Quays, Belfast. This was an opportunity to get an insight into the types of roles on offer and the experience that they look for so we can help guide the future generation of graduates. It was an extremely informative day and is a very useful contact to have for the future. The second occasion was the launch of the CCEA ReVised A level Specification and the final event was the South Belfast Area Learning Community meeting for Business Studies. The purpose of this meeting was to share good practice and to prepare for the new A level specification.

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The highlights of our academic year included a variety of industrial visits and visiting speakers which added value to the department.

In 2015-16 Aquinas continued to participate in competitions. The year 13 Young Enterprise Company held their meetings every Monday. A business advisor was always in attendance passing on the benefit of his vast experience and expertise. The students gained practical experience of business and enterprise through setting up and running their own real company. The company participated in two Bank of Ireland Sales events in November and December. These proved to be very successful trading days with the team selling many products and receiving excellent feedback from customers. In late December the team also participated in the Forestside Trade Fair, winning the runner-up prize. Ruairi Cormican was selected to participate in the Forestside Entrepreneur of the Year competition which was scheduled to take place in February, however that event has been postponed due to unforeseen circumstances and will hopefully take place during the next mid-term break. The team then went on to take part in the Belfast Board’s trade fair in the Kennedy Shopping Centre in January, interacting with the public and a panel of judges winning two awards – Runner-Up Company of the Year and Best Use of Social Media. In March the team submitted a ten page Annual General Report to Young Enterprise and completed their trading year by taking part in the regional presentations and interviews. Ellen Connolly won the Entrepreneur of the Year award for the Belfast Board and went through to the NI Final where she unfortunately narrowly missed out on a trip to a leadership conference in Canada.

Six year 13 Business Studies pupils attended the NISP Connect Generation Innovation ‘Night of Ambition’ in the NI Science Park in February. They heard from many inspiring speakers and met a variety of entrepreneurs from across the globe.

Year 12 GCSE Business Studies pupils enjoyed a field trip to Tayto Castle which provided much relevant information regarding production and marketing. They observed the production process and got great pleasure from tasting various types and flavours of crisps and corn snacks. Year 12 pupils carried out their Controlled Assessment and as part of their research they were fortunate to attend an industrial visit to Schrader Electronics in Antrim Technology Park. Michael Quinn, Process Engineering Manager provided them with a wealth of fascinating information about the business.

Year 11 students completed their first GCSE unit which was worth 35% of the overall qualification. The results were pleasing with 67.6% achieving A*-B grades. As part of GCSE Business Studies, year 11 students participated in the Young Enterprise ‘Enterprise in Action’ programme which was held in school in September. This included participating in many practical activities which were extremely good fun as students interacted and worked in teams.

Year 10 pupils participated in a one-day Young Enterprise ‘Project Business’ programme. This ‘taster’ course enabled each pupil to make an informed decision for GCSE, with thirty seven pupils choosing to pursue their study of Business Studies to this level.

The Business Studies department also worked closely with the Careers department in the third term to organise a year 9 trip to Coca-Cola HBC (NI) and Aunt Sandra’s Sweet Factory. This was an excellent trip giving pupils an insight into how businesses operate with a focus on contrasting the running of a multinational organisation with a small local manufacturer.

Overall in 2015-16 Business Studies students were encouraged to gain a holistic understanding of business behaviour from a variety of perspectives, generating creative and enterprising solutions to business problems and issues throughout key stages 3 – 5.

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CEIAG (Careers Education Information Advice and Guidance) AGM 2015-2016

The Careers department has excellent accommodation in the form of an office and spacious resource area for class work and research. This location off the central mall area raises the profile of the CEIAG department, making it visible and accessible to all year groups. The pupils from Year 10 -14 accessed careers staff to consult on a range of issues from subject choices, university and college applications to work related learning. The department has access to the internet within three ICT suites, which is vital for relevant careers information and exploration, university applications and choice of courses.

Mr McAufield was appointed as Acting Head of CEIAG for the 2015/16 academic year.

Careers Insight EveningThis took place in February and over 90 organisations were represented. Pupils and parents from Year 10 to Year 14 attended as well as the Minister for Employment and Learning, Dr Stephen Farry.

Key Stage 3This academic year, all pupils at Key Stage 3 continue to receive CEIAG in their overall timetable. The CEIAG department has designed and regularly reviews progressive schemes of work for each year group in line the joint Department of Education and Department of Employment and Learning strategy for CEIAG “Preparing for Success”.

Year 8 pupils participated in an educational visit to Titanic Belfast in June. An exercise in thinking outside the box, Abandon Ship uses actual life rafts supplied by Survitec Ltd. The workshop focused on developing pupils transferable skills in communication, problem-solving and decision-making.

Pupils also had the chance to view and engage with the nine Galleries at Titanic Belfast and the slipways. The information in these galleries told them of the growth of Belfast, the story of Titanic as well as allowing them to avail of a variety of interactive activities.

Year 9 pupils participated in a CEIAG visit to Coca Cola and Aunt Sandra’s in June. This involved tours and talks from the human resources personnel on product design, recruitment and selection and health and safety in the store. The pupils also were educated about annual turnover, profit margins, customer care, buyer behaviour and sustainability in the two commercial environments.Year 10 also took part in a “Learn to Earn” programme which was delivered by industry ambassadors sourced through Young Enterprise prior to the Options Day in March.

Key Stage 4Year 11 and 12 pupils all participated in the CEIAG module which was delivered by members of the careers team. The department have designed progressive schemes of work for these modules.

Work shadowing also continued for Y11 pupils. Pupils spent three days in June in various work related environments and is now embedded within the Y11 curriculum.

All Year 12 pupils received an individual careers guidance interview with the DEL careers adviser. The purpose of these interviews was to develop a careers plan for post 16 study.

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Key Stage 5Year 13 and 14 pupils all have 1 period of CEIAG in their timetable. The department have designed progressive schemes of work for these lessons.

Year 13Each student participated in a one-week work experience placement in February. The rationale behind the programme is to help students see what a chosen career could offer, to gain self-awareness, confidence and the sense of responsibility needed in work and to provide greater incentive and motivation to work in school. The experience was preceded by classes, which prepared students for the experience. The work experience programme was very successful and has helped students in developing their Personal Career Plans.

In addition to the set week of work experience, a number of pupils attended work inspiration days throughout the academic year in Engineering, Graphic Design and Marketing, Medicine, Pharmacy, Midwifery and Law.

All Year 13 pupils attended the UCAS convention in the King’s Hall in March. This event incorporated exhibits from over three hundred third level institutions and proved to be an excellent start to the process of applying for third level study.

The CEIAG department further developed their employer networks this year forging sustainable links with local companies such as Deloitte, Kainos, Schrader Electronics, Price Waterhouse Coopers, the Big Lottery Fund (NI) and All State to name but a few. A number of past pupils returned to give talks on Social Work, Accountancy and Nursing and Midwifery. The department also enlisted the help of parents who assisted in offering talks and work experience.

A number of Year 13 pupils also attended additional work experience over the summer holidays in the UK and further afield.

Year 14The bulk of work with Year 14 students comprised of arranging applications through UCAS (University and Colleges Admission Service), CAO, (Central Applications Office) and admissions to further education and higher education colleges. The enormous administrative task was accomplished successfully by a team effort from Careers staff and senior management. All applications were completed on-line and within the specified deadline. There were also a number of applications to Conservatoires and Schools for Performing Arts.

Individual advice and guidance was on offer from CEIAG teachers and the DEL careers adviser on a self, parent and Year Head referral basis. Pupils were introduced to the UCAS website, various careers software packages and learned how to market themselves to potential employers and universities in the future.

Mock interviews were held, in association with the Knights of Columbanus, for all Year 14 students and this proved especially beneficial for those pupils who were applying to courses which had an interview element for admittance. This included Social Work, Teaching, Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary, Nursing, Physiotherapy and Midwifery. In addition to the interview evening, those students applying to Medicine were offered the opportunity to attend a medical interview training session.

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Talks by a range of universities across Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland and Scotland were hosted in the careers room. Information on open days throughout Ireland and the UK was disseminated through display boards in the CEIAG department and sixth form study.

A student finance talk was delivered which focussed on the student loan application process. Year 14 were also encouraged and supported in applying for scholarships and bursaries.

Pupils were assisted in applying for and preparing for a range of entrance exams including UKCAT, BMAT, LNAT, ELAT, HAT, HPAT(Ulster), HPAT (Ireland) and STEP exams.

All Year 14 pupils on the Special Educational Needs register were interviewed with their parents by the SENCO and DEL careers adviser to plan for their future progression. The DEL careers adviser was present at all annual reviews for pupils on the SEN register.

GCSE and A Level OptionsHeads of Department contributed to a GCSE Options Booklet for pupils and parents. This contained relevant information about all GCSE specifications, changes in specification and the format under which options would be organised. Coursework implications and requirements were outlined.

An Advanced Level booklet was produced with contributions from Heads of Department. This outlined comprehensively the nature and content of Advanced Level Specifications. All students made provisional choices in March.

An options morning was held for prospective GCSE pupils and an options afternoon for potential GCE pupils were held in March.

Advice and GuidanceThe DEL careers adviser worked with pupils and parents on different mornings throughout the year. The adviser delivered talks in September to Year 10, 12, 13 and 14 pupils to outline her guidance role in school.

The CEIAG coordinator was on hand to deal with individual A level pupil and parent queries when results were published in August and important decisions had to be made.

Training Two members of the department attended the autumn conference and spring conferences

of the NI Schools Careers Association (NISCA). CEIAG teachers attended the annual QUB Careers Advisers Conference CEIAG teachers attended information evenings at QUB and UU on Arts and Humanities,

Engineering, Life and Health Sciences and Law and applying to Harvard University.

PR and Marketing All CEIAG activities were promoted on the Aquinas website. The CEIAG department have a Twitter account which they use to communicate with pupils,

parents and employers. This proved to be particularly useful in promoting the Careers Insight event.

Self-EvaluationThe CEIAG department participated in a process of rigorous self-evaluation throughout the year. The department met to evaluate the new schemes of work and associated resources. Feedback

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from these surveys was used to inform the CEIAG department action plan for the academic year 2016-2017.

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CHEMISTRY AGM 2015-2016

There are 3 full time members of staff teaching Chemistry from Years 10 -14. At KS3, there are 6 Chemistry classes in Year 10 with 116 pupils in total. In Year 11, there are 29 students studying Double Award Science and 59 studying Chemistry

individually. In Year 12, there are 20 students studying Double Award Science and 55 studying Chemistry

individually. 28 students study AS Chemistry in 2 classes. 23 students study A2 Chemistry in 2 classes.

We follow the CCEA syllabus for Chemistry at both GCSE and AS/A2 levels.

Individual Chemistry GCSE results for the Year 2016:A* 7

A 28

B 15

C 8

D 2

E 1

Comparison with 3 year N.I. Averages for Grammar Schools: Aquinas 82.8N.I. 83.3

AS Chemistry results for the Year 2016:A 5

B 6

C 6

D 3

E 3

U 1

A2 Chemistry results for the Year 2016:A* 4

A 2

B 12

C 3

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D 1

E 1

Comparison with 3 year N.I. Averages for Grammar SchoolAquinas 95.5N.I. 86.69

The Chemistry Department has decided to focus its development in 3 areas:1. To engage with TLNI taster sessions, and identify specific lessons with the focus on plenary

sessions and develop good practice with a view to dissemination within the department.

2. Review numeracy within the department and adopt an agreed common approach of use of mathematical strategies.

3. Develop a scheme of work for the new AS/A2 specification.

Chemistry has had another great year in Aquinas with 81.8% of our A2 students achieving A* -B grades. The department played a very active role in the promotion of CEIAG by bringing in numerous speakers to take part in the Careers Night.

2015 saw the continuation of the new GCSE Chemistry specification. These results were very positive with the A*-B 82% continuing the upward trend of the past 3 years.

The Department plays a role in the SBALC and has links to HODs involved in the teaching of CCEA A level chemistry. This has lead to the development of a core think tank which provides feedback to the examination board and facilitates the transfer of new initiatives. Members of the Chemistry Department are involved in a spectrum of roles within Aquinas. The Chemistry Department as a whole is committed to the dissemination and implementation of good practice.

The Chemistry Department Played an active role in the development of the CCEA curriculum at AS/A2. Members of the department attended content meetings and focus groups developing the new schemes. Mr Feron was responsible for assisting CCEA to deliver training on the new AS/ A2 Practical, developing resources and sharing good practice with teachers and non-teaching staff from throughout Northern Ireland. We also hosted representatives from the Royal Society of Chemistry as part of their outreach program.

The department was very lucking to be assisted by an extremely capable student teacher Dr Michael O’Connell. Michael made quite the impression on the staff and made himself indispensable during the run up to The AS/A2 practicals.

2016 was also a difficult year as we lost our colleague Eugene Moyna. Eugene had been an integral part of the Chemistry department working tirelessly as our technician. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family.

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COMMUNITY LINK AGM 2015-2016

An enthusiastic cohort of Lower Sixth students participated in the Community Link Programme and thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

Students travelled to their respective placements on a weekly basis, committing an hour of their private study time to do so. Within St. Michael's, St. Bernard's and Holy Rosary Primary Schools our students engaged in a wide range of activities such as paired reading, mathematical support, language classes, art and lunchtime supervision of active play. Two students also had the opportunity to enhance their language skills by undertaking their placements in Scoil An Droichid.

In Nazareth House Care Village, students with the support of the Music Department organised and performed at a Christmas Carol Service and provided musical entertainment during the year.

Students also celebrated their musical talents by performing at Glenvegh School's annual Christmas Fete. Our sixth form students have continued to take responsibility for recycling within school, giving freely of their break-time to collect recyclable paper.

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DRAMA and THEATRE STUDIES AGM 2015-2016

The number of students studying Drama and Theatre Studies in 2015 to 2016 was as follows:

Key Stage Number of Students2014 to 2015:

Key Stage 3 330

Key Stage 4 20

Post-16 8

Key Stage Three: Ms Amy Carron, Ms Nuala Loughrey, Ms Emma Marley, Ms Pauline McCaul, Mr Julian McGrath and Frances McHugh (Head of Department).

The Department would like to thank Ms Carron, Ms Loughrey, Ms Marley, Ms McCaul and Mr McGrath for their hard work and interesting, creative teaching, to Years Eight and Nine.

We wish Ms Carron great success in her career.

At Key Stage Three: Drama was taught to all classes (approximately 110 pupils in each year group). The subject was delivered during three periods per class, each fortnight, by five teachers in Years Eight and Year Nine. In Year Ten, Drama was taught by F McHugh for two periods, each fortnight, to each of the four classes.

The Departmental focus of the year was on supporting the non-Specialist Drama Teachers with very detailed Schemes of Work and lesson-by-lesson Curriculum plans, with further focus on a more co-ordinated delivery to all students. There was an additional focus on achieving the same allocated time for Drama as other Practical subjects, in order to make the subject a more appealing option for study at GCSE level.

Key Stage Four and AS and A2: Frances McHugh.At Key Stage Four: In Year Eleven, there were twelve pupils and, in the Year Twelve GCSE class, there were eight pupils. All GCSE pupils achieved A to B grades.

In the Year 13 AS class, there were five pupils and in the A2 class, there were three pupils.We are delighted to have achieved 100% A to B grades at A2 and GCSE and 100% A to C grades at AS.

AS and A2 followed the AQA specification. Traditionally, the specification followed in Aquinas at GCSE was the AQA Specification but, this year, the Drama Department transferred our Year Eleven pupils over to CCEA: our goal was to further enhance performance results and to benefit from access to local training. The results indicate that this was a positive move.

Examination Level A*/A A*/B A*/C NI 3-year Grammar Average

GCSE CCEA: 50% 100% A* to C: 83.6%

GCSE AQA,2015:(Repeat), 2016:

0%50%

37%100%

89% A to C: 86.7%

AS: 40% 80% 100%

A2: 33% 100% A* to C: 87%

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The GCSE, AS and A’-Level results are summarised below:GCSE AS Level A2

2015 to 2016: A to B: 100% A to C: 100% A to B: 100%

2014 to 2015: A to C: 89% A to C: 100% A to C: 100%

2013 to 2014: A to C: 87% A to C: 100% n/a

We are delighted to have achieved 100% A to B grades at A2 and GCSE and 100% A to C grades at AS.

The highlights of the academic year included:

Grease: The Bi-annual show had a cast of over one hundred with approximately thirty pupils working back-stage on lighting and costumes, and so on. Over eleven hundred people attended, including local primary schools and parents and friends of Aquinas.

Many, many thanks to the Music Department, Ms Joanna Gould and Ms Karen McWilliams, who were, as usual, wonderful. Special thanks to Ms Lisa Begley and Ms Nuala Loughrey and to two of our past pupils: Miss Caoimhe Wills and Miss Leigh Gould, who helped so much.Thank you, also to Mr Barry Kelly and Mr Barry Niblock who entrusted us to just get on with it and who were as generous, as possible, financially.

Theatre Visits:The Crucible at ‘The Lyric Theatre’, Belfast;The Merchant of Venice at ‘The Grand Opera House’, Belfast;A View From the Bridge at the ‘Gaiety Theatre’, Dublin;The Importance of Being Earnest at the ‘Civic Theatre’, Dublin;The Importance of Being Earnest (streamed National Theatre Production) at ‘The Movie House, Belfast’;Dancing at Lughnasa at ‘The Lyric’, Belfast;The 39 Steps at ‘The Lyric’, Belfast.

Auditions, Performances and Summer Schools:Aquinas Drama pupils partook of audition and summer school opportunities and performed in the following:‘Twenty Six 03’ for a television programme based on the Spirit of Christmas;‘Lyle Bailie International’ for television advertisements;‘Belfast international Arts Festival’ for girls aged sixteen and over for a co-production with ‘London Theatre’ and ‘Edinburgh Lyceum Theatre’;Game of Thrones television series;Lyric Summer School: Youth Lyric;Bruiser Theatre Company summer School at the Mac;The Drama Department collaborated with the English Department to produce the annual, highly-creative Shakespeare Festival, with Year 9; Twenty-Five acts from the Junior School performed at ‘The Belfast Festival’: all won First to Third Place or were commended. Thank you to Abby Atchinson (U6), Katie Lacey (U6), Katherine Davies (U6), Connor Taggart (L6) and Tom O’Kelly (L6) who ran the clubs;Notably, Tom O’ Kelly (L6) secured the role of Javert in Les Miserable which ran for eight nights at ‘The Grand Opera House, Belfast’ in August.

The Drama Lecture Theatre (DLT) space was used to host/ stage:On-site training for CCEA GCSE, led by the Head of CCEA Drama and CCEA’s Drama Liaison Officer;Key Speakers on Careers Evening;

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‘The Lyric Theatre’ Greek Theatre Workshops for English and Drama Pupils;‘The Lyric Theatre’ Dancing at Lughnasa WorkshopThe Reconciliation service for the Junior school;Weekly Junior Yoga;Junior Drama Club (twice weekly);Moderated Performances of All My sons and Of Mice and Men and two Devised plays from Year 12 pupils and a Moderated Performance of The Importance of Being Earnest from Year 13 pupils; Year 14 Pupils wrote and produced a play on The Suffragettes. At GCSE, we were Moderated by the Chief Examiner and all pupils in the Centre achieved A* to B grades in their Practicals so, warmest congratulations to them;

Drama is a highly sought-after qualification by Universities because of the skills it fosters in the pupils: they are confident and articulate in public-speaking, they are team-players, they are diverse and flexible and they are lateral thinkers. This year our pupils will go on to study Teaching, Philosophy and Law: we wish all of our 2016 Drama and Theatre Studies Graduates the very best of luck in their bright futures.

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ENGLISH AGM 2015-2016

Results/AchievementsThe English department secured 100% A*-C grades from 29 student entries, 11% above the school's overall performance. At AS level 90% of students attained A-C: 83% of the grades attained at both AS and A2 were B and above. As well as the hard work and commitment of students and teachers being injected into the grades, the extracurricular opportunities afforded to the senior students- outlined below- have a significant contribution to make to student performance.

At GCSE, the results exceeded both the school’s overall performance and the NI grammar outcomes. 100% A-C English Language, (88% A*-B) and 96% in English Literature (87 A*-B)

Aquinas entered The Soroptomist young women's public speaking competition for the first time this year. Not only did we secure 1st and 2nd place in the Belfast Region, but went on to win the NI and all Ireland finals.

Extra curricular enrichmentIn addition to our longstanding Shakespeare Festival for junior English classes, we entered almost 30 pupils to The Poetry Aloud competition. The pupils benefited from a visit from global company Google who provided goggles to facilitate a literary tour of London among other 4D experiences.

Meanwhile 40 senior students from English and Moving Image Arts enjoyed our inaugural trip to London including: tour of and workshops in The Globe Theatre; visit to Harry Potter Studio, a West End show, and tour of The National Theatre.

Careers & Links with the CommunityFor this year's Careers Insight evening the English department provided a range of exhibitors, including past pupils and some of the top names in journalism, representing professions in Law, media, education and medicine, again proving the benefits of studying English for long term employment purposes.

Aquinas maintains excellent relationships and regular contact with The Lyric Theatre and independent cinema, The QFT, for performances, talks, live streaming and workshops. We ensure we bring in the best local and critically acclaimed poets while providing them with a young wider audience.

The English and Maths departments continue to develop the transition project shared with feeder primaries so as to ensure the year 8 curriculum is pitched at the appropriate levels of ability and challenge.

Professional developmentThe department welcomed two new subject specialists, one full time, one part time to expand the expertise and provision offered by us. We are secure in our continued development as exam markers for CEA, and graduates of OLEVI Teaching and Learning, as well as having an established network with other English departments through attendance of new GCSE and GCE specification training and the HOD English cluster group. Two members of the department availed of CPD training in use of resources and teaching methodologies most beneficial to pupils in transition from KS2 to KS3

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ChallengesThe English department must continue to adapt to recent shifts in the educational climate including cutbacks, rationalisation at 3rd level education and new specifications at both GCSE and GCE. Our aim is to continue to attract students to the benefits of an Arts/humanities education despite government rationalisation. To do this we must promote enrichment of creative industries for a wide catchment of pupils and maintain a fresh and relevant curriculum which stimulates pupil confidence and performance.

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FRENCH AGM 2015-2016

STAFF 2015-2016

Mrs E O’Neill(HOD) Mrs T Maguire, Mrs N Wilson (French Assistant)

PUPIL NUMBERS

No. of students KS3: 305 No. of students KS4: 77 No. of students KS5: 21

RESULTSCCEA SPECIFICATION.A2 Results –11 students

Aquinas No. % NI AvGrade A* 3 27%Grade A*-A 7 91%Grade A*-B 1 100%Grade A*-C 0Grade A*-D 0

Aquinas 3 year Average A*-C NI 3 year Average A*-C 87.2%

AS Results –14 studentsAquinas No. % NI AvGrade A 8 57%Grade A-B 5 100%Grade A-C 0 Grade A-D 0Grade A-E 0

Aquinas AS Average A-B over 3 years 100%

GCSE–43 StudentsAquinas No. % NI AvGrade A* 4Grade A*-A 7Grade A*-B 13Grade A-CGrade A*-E

59

Grade A*-F

Aquinas Average A*-B over 3 years 66.5% NI Average A*-C over 3 years 67.3%

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DEPARTMENTAL FOCUS 2015-2016

The main focus of the department in 2015 -16 was in line with the targets for High Quality Teaching and Learning as stated in the SDP.

1. Engage in Ipad [app usage] training at appropriate level; 2. Classroom Observation/Learning Walks: Use of Ipad [app usage] as a focus. Feedback

to include missed opportunities for AFL

CEAIG

Careers Insight Evening:The French Department welcomed Ximena McLoughin from the Open University to participate in the Careers Insight Evening. She gave a very interesting speech on ‘Why study/learn languages?’ and chatted with many Aquinas students throughout the evening about the benefits of learning a language and the career opportunities for linguists.

The destinations and careers achievements of past students of languages are highlighted on a departmental notice board to promote careers awareness.

Information on the importance of languages was sent to the Careers department by Queens University, this was presented to Year 10 pupils.

There was a focus in year 10 on the world of work and awareness of French speaking countries throughout the world to coincide with Options Day.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

The HOD attended CCEA training in the new specification for GCSE and moderation training for GCSE Speaking.

HIGHLIGHTS OF ACADEMIC YEAR 2015-2016

Keela McConville was awarded a prize for Top Candidate in GCSE French.

Collaborative Activities

French Exchange : Yr 13 and Yr 14 students participated in a French Exchange with our partner School :Lycée Marguerite de Flandres in Gondecourt, Lille . Aquinas students welcomed their French partners to Belfast on the 4th September for 5 nights. On the 11th March, Aquinas students travelled to Lille accompanied by Mrs O’Neill, Mrs Wilson and Mr Dempsey. In Belfast the students spent time in school and went on cultural visits around Northern Ireland, including the Titanic Museum and Stormont. In Lille, Aquinas students spent time in lessons in their partner school and on cultural visits around the city of Lille. The highlight of the visit was a day trip to Bruges. Pupils had a boat trip on the river, visited the cathedral and explored the many delightful chocolate shops around the main square.

In March Aquinas also hosted another group of 55 French exchange students from our partner school in Gondecourt, Lille while they were on a visit to Dublin. The French students had a tour of the school and took part in some lessons. They saw a display of Irish dancing, tried some Irish

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dancing themselves in the mall along with Aquinas sixth year French students and had a bus tour of Belfast in the afternoon.

European Day of LanguagesSixth Form Students visited local Primary Schools to teach French and promote language learning. Years 9 pupils watched ‘Les Choristes’ and all pupils were invited to attend a celebration of languages in Aquinas in the library.

Curriculum Enrichment

French ClubThe French club ran every Monday afternoon from 3.30-4.30, led by Maeve Crozier. Students were invited to sample French culture through film, food and fun.

French Exchange : The ongoing links and planning for the exchange with our partner school the Lycée Marguerite de Flandres Gondecourt, Lille, Nord-Pas-de-Calais continued in 2015-16, the next exchange is planned for 2017-18.

MentoringYear 13 French students ran a mentoring group at breaktime. Year 8, 9 and 10 pupils attended in preparation for assessments. This was helpful for oral practice.

Cross-Curricular Activities ; ICT, Numeracy and Literacy Tasks are in place in schemes of work at KS3.

The French department continues to work hard to promote healthy numbers at all key stages and to promote a positive experience of language learning, and cultural awareness and a high level of competence and performance at all levels.

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FUNDRAISING AGM 2015-2016

The annual Macmillan Coffee Morning was held in September. This morning is designed for the senior pupils of the school, along with the staff, to raise funds for the Macmillan nurses looking after cancer patients. The fundraising committee organised tea and coffee for this event. The event ran for a break time and visiting sixth form pupils from Wellington College and St. Joseph's College participated.

A food Collection was held to support a local food bank which is a cross community charity organised by Storehouse. Food bags are supplied to families and individuals in need. Non-perishable items such as pasta, cereal, long life milk and tinned foods were collected by prefects and donated in October. A number of Sixth form students in Year 13 also volunteered to help pack bags on the first Tuesday of every month. They also witnessed the work of storehouse and gained greater understanding into the emerging food poverty situation in the greater Belfast area. A total of 20 Year 13 regularly volunteered in Storehouse.

Year 13 and 14 students helped as volunteer street collectors to assist with the NI hospice Flag Day collection in Belfast City Centre for the main hospice and the children’s hospice horizon.

In November, the annual 'Aquinas Christmas Appeal' was officially launched. This campaign is designed to aid people living closer to home. Pupils work together with SVP, Bryson House and the Salvation Army to bring Santa to those less fortunate than them. Hampers were prepared for families and gifts provided for 66 children. Food hampers and gifts were also given to Social Services and the Morning Star hostel.

In early March, as Lent was fast approaching, the Trocaire campaign was launched and this year the the focus was on energy renewal and climate change. A number of fundraising events were arranged using the house system. Ms Begley’s Year 8 class raised the highest amount of money. Four pupils achieved Gold and twelve pupils were awarded Silver Solidarity Trocaire awards.

FUNDRAISING 2015-2016Syria relief appeal £845Mcmillan Coffee morning £515Marie Curie bag pack 15 volunteers Saturday 3rd Oct SVP bag pack 11 volunteers 16/17 Oct Children’s Cancer (wills) £379Christmas Appeal 70 presentsSVP – extra cash from Christmas appeal £84Honey rose foundation £271 Habitat for Humanity (Year 13) £916 Trocaire £5684.40Exodus (Year 13) £370Eileen Mooreland Foundation £154 Belfast One World Run £137

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GEOGRAPHY AGM 2015-2016

The academic year 2015-16 had a total of four different teachers teaching across the seven year groups. The Head of Department continued to take the A’ Level classes with a total of fifteen students at A2 Level and nine students at AS. The GCSE class was also taught by the HoD. All KS3 students were taught by four members of staff.

GCSE AS A2

Grade 2015 Grade 2015 Grade 2015

A* 2 A* 3

A 2 A 1 A 1

B 5 B 2 B 5

C 5 C 4 C 5

D 1 D 2 D 1

E 1 E E

Total 17 Total 9

%A* 11.8 %A 11.1 % A* 20

%A*- A 23.5 %A - B 33.3 % A 26.7

%A* - B 52.9 %A - C 77.8 %A - B 60

%A - C 93.3

All public examinations in Geography are serviced through the CCEA. A key target is for the year ahead (2016-170 2 will be uptake (GCSE and A’ Level) and to improve the standard of grade at GCSE, focusing on the B/C boundary.

The A2 grades were particularly gratifying both in terms of the high number of A*/A grades and the fact that only one pupil fell below a C grade. The AS grades can and will be improved, in fact many of the C grades were only a few marks away from a B.

Although many of the GCSE students got grades A* - C, there were too many on C grades and this affects comparative statistical analysis. In fairness, many of the candidates who received a C grade were delighted with the mark, considering the challenges they faced through the academic year. However, for next year we must ensure good coursework and afterschool revision classes to enhance the grade quality.

The department also brought in external speakers to further engage with the Year 14s. Colleagues in the Department have been trained in using the school VLE and have successfully posted updates to the Geography section continually editing and changing information as necessary, as well as uploading student resources.

A LevelIn Year 13, we continued with the Belvoir Park Forest Woodland Study in preparation for the Fieldwork section of the AS1 paper; this continues to work well. At Christmas time, the Year 14

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students enjoyed the experience of observing Belfast’s Peacelines, and surveying tourists at the Christmas Market. This gives the students an important insight to their own city as well as valuable background information for the Ethnic Diversity Module in the A21 paper. All these experiences add a lot to the course.

We continued to bring students to evening lectures at the Queen’s Geography Department in the first term. These are lectures especially organised for sixth formers by the local Geographical Association.

Dr S Royal from QUB addressed the A2 group before Christmas about studying Geography at Queens. He also gave advice to the students re exam technique, which was prudent given that he is the Chief Examiner for Geography at CCEA.

GCSEIn Year 12, the students completed another three day / two night residential fieldwork course in Fermanagh at the Gortatole Outdoor Education Centre. Students found this experience really enjoyable and their time was fully utilised both during and after the fieldwork on the River Cladagh. Pupils worked until around 8 o’clock each evening and then participated in orienteering or climbing wall activities. On the last day, pupils engaged in wet caving, which was certainly a character building experience; but very worthwhile. All activities are led by fully trained outdoor instructors with health and safety important throughout. We aimed to meet the end of January deadline as the submission date for the task.

Curriculum and Schemes of Work at KS 3The topics at Key Stage 3 are relevant and thought provoking and colleagues within the department continually reviewed the topics taught and assessed how they could be best taught to engage pupils. To that end, the Head of Department has stressed to colleagues that the department should consider pupil experiential learning in line with the Revised Curriculum. The rewritten schemes now have this at the heart of learning in KS3. Life-long values of mutual respect for all (for example, Ethnic Diversity and issues of migration) will also form the basis of "Developing pupils as Contributors to Society".

Fieldwork is a significant part of the learning within Geography at KS3. The following is a list of KS3 fieldwork tours:

Year 8: Traffic Study on the Ravenhill Road Year 9: Tour of the River Dun, The waterfalls of Glenariff and Cushendun. Year 10: The Peaceline Tour.

In terms of Value Added, the Geography Department helped assess the pupils’ ICT skills in Year 9 and this was reported upon in these pupils’ reports.

In conclusion, the Geography Department has contributed positively to the SDP and has fully embraced aspects of DE documents such as ESaGS and TTI. The Department was successful in meeting its primary examination targets at A’ Level and takes pride in the students who achieve not just to the highest standards but who also enjoy the lifelong learning experience.ghest standards but who also enjoy the lifelong learning experience.

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GOVERNMENT & POLITICS AGM 2015-2016

The Politics department consists of one teacher and is taught at AS & A2. There were 19 students entered into AS Politics and 10 students entered for A2 Politics in 2015-2016. Going in to 2015-2016 we have 20 students taking up AS Politics.

The A2 results were strong with 100% achieving grades A-C. This was our target for the year and was extremely challenging for two students in particular owing to pastoral and medical reasons respectively. So this 100% figure is a great achievement this year. One boy missed the A* by 2.5% and another girl missed it by 1%, so this was the biggest disappointment.

Upon analysis, the results in both units at A2 show substantial improvement upon the figures from the previous year. The Unit 1 average is up by 5% (the equivalent to half a grade) and the Unit 2 average is up a significant 14%. This translates into a 9% average increase over the twelve months and is extremely pleasing. Much of the increase is down to the new method of teaching both Units concurrently – a decision taken by me in order to raise achievement.

Teaching both Units concurrently had a positive impact at AS-level also. In Unit One the average score was 14% higher than the previous year and in Unit Two the average score was 4% higher. This places the AS level students in a solid position for next year’s A2 levels.

The headline results are as follows:

A2 Level – 100% A-C80% A-BA 2B 6C 2

AS Level89% A-C(100% A-C for those continuing to A2 level).79% A-BA 10B 5C 2D 1U 1

The department continues to embrace documents such as Together Towards Improvement and provide support for our learners through mentoring, discussion and extending the high academic achievers, we set high expectations and standards for our students.

As well as the high academic performance of our students one of the highlights of the academic year was our annual trip to Parliament Buildings at Stormont. We organised a question and answer session, for all politics students, with MLAs from Alliance, Sinn Fein, DUP, UUP, SDLP and the Green Party. The students posed an array of questions to the political representatives and gained a lot from the experience. The students were also given a tour of Stormont and an educational talk on the mechanics and politics of the Northern Ireland Executive & Assembly.

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In the classroom and in line with the policy document Every School a Good School (April 2009) a variety of teaching strategies and methodologies continue to be deployed to ensure that political information is accessible and enjoyable for a broad range of academic abilities. Group work, peer assessment, individual learning, one to one feedback from the classroom teacher are all strategies deployed to improve the quality of teaching and learning in the Politics classroom.

The use of multimedia is a continuing example of an approach to bringing US, UK & local politics to the classroom. Students can now follow A-level politics via a custom made twitter feed for them and we are now exploiting fully the iPad training by incorporating the use of the new application Showbie.com.

I set a target of increasing A* and A grades in Politics last year and this remains a target, along with 100% A*-C.

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HISTORY AGM 2015-2016

There are two full-time teachers of History and a teacher of History and Politics within the department. 360 pupils were taught at Key Stage 3. At Key Stage 4, 88 pupils were taught and 53 pupils at Advanced Level.NICCEA GCE History is the specification followed for Advanced Level History. In 2016 there was a 93.9 pass rate at grades A*-C. This compares favourably with the NI Grammar School average of 85.2%. 90% achieved grades A-C in AS History. At GCSE level the pupils also cover the NICCEA specification. The results were again favourable with 91.3% of the pupils achieving grades A*-B in comparison with the NI Grammar School Average of 79.7%.

In line with the School Development Plan, Together Towards Improvement and Every School a Good School documents, one focus of the History department was on ensuring that the KS4 schemes were updated in light of the revised GCSE specification. We also worked hard to extend and improve our resources for our AS and A2 pupils, in anticipation of the changes made to the GCE specifications

As always, CEIAG was promoted by all staff within the department through discussions prompted by new topics, pupil questions and option decisions at GCSE and A level. Through our participation in the Options Days we have worked with the pupils and their parents to facilitate well-informed subject choices. We have continued to have a notice board displaying Careers Advice and information. The pupils who applied to courses requiring HLAT examinations and interviews in which their choice of Advanced Level History was in focus were well supported and given individual help. Our schemes of work highlight different topics and areas where careers and related issues can be discussed, such as employment trends and their impact on politics.

All teachers were encouraged to attend courses as appropriate to update their knowledge and skills. The in-school Teaching and Learning NI sessions were attended by all teachers in the department and work was completed with regard to Assessment for Learning. All members of the department participated in i-Pad training at the appropriate level.

During the year a variety of projects and trips were undertaken to enrich the learning experience of our pupils. At Key Stage 3 our Year 8 pupils Attended workshops provided by the Anglo-Norman Outreach Programme based in Armagh. Our Year 9 pupils completed excellent empathy tasks about the First World War. The Year 10 pupils continued to produce extremely high quality work on a range of topics. In particular we consolidated our new schemes and resources dealing with the Causes and Consequences of the Partition of Ireland. At Key Stage 4 our Year 11 pupils sat 50% of their GCSE course in the summer term and achieved superb results in Unit One in the second year of the new specification.50% of them got Grade A or above, 83.24 got Grade B or above. The Year 12 pupils completed controlled assessment to a very high standard and also are to be commended for their excellent results. At A2 level the achievements of our students were tremendous. In Year 14, 24.2% of pupils gained and 54.5% got A grades or above. Both year groups attended excellent AS/A2 lectures and workshops directly related to their advanced level courses at the Somme Heritage Centre in Newtownards, Co. Down. The History Department continued to offer support and opportunities to all students, within a positive and active environment, liaising with the SEN team where necessary.

During the year daily, informal meetings continued to be a vital and practical aspect of ongoing evaluation and planning within the department. These discussions regularly led to examples of good practice and successful teaching techniques being shared. This undoubtedly contributed to the outstanding achievements and progress of our pupils.

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In addition, outside of the classroom teachers from our department were involved in a range of extra-curricular activities, school trips and fundraising events. These activities brought an extra dimension to pupil-teacher interaction, contributing to the positive relationships which characterise our department, making the academic year 2015-16 so productive for our department.

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HOME ECONOMICS AGM 2015-2016

Staffing

Two full time teachers and one technician who is a student on work placement from UUC.

The number of students who studied Home Economics in 2015/16 were as follows:

Key Stage No. of StudentsKey Stage 3 333Key Stage 4 60Post-16 24

The specification followed at GCSE, AS and A2 is CCEA Home Economics for Food and Nutrition. The results are summarised below;

Level A* A*/A A*/B A*/C NI grammar average A*/B

GCSE 6% 28%% 83% 97% 91%

AS Level NA 20% 50% 80%

A2 Level 15% 62% 77% 100% 88.6%

Ellen Connolly achieved Joint 1st candidate in Home Economics Nutrition for Optimal Health GCSE in Northern Ireland. She was presented with her award at Titanic Belfast on Thursday 7th April 2016. She attended the ceremony with her parents along with Mrs Evans and Mr Kelly.

Ipads were used more extensively in the classroom and teachers used the Showbie app to create and collect assessments, provide support material, and as a communication tool with pupils. All subject material in each Key Stage was revised with emphasis on highlighting where numeracy, literacy and CIEAG was being taught throughout the curriculum. The department Twitter account was used extensively and parents and pupils engaged with fully with it. Photos of Cook of the Week were tweeted at the end of each practical class.

Two pupils from Year 11 competed in the Mount Charles Whizz Kids cookery final competition in November 2015 and were narrowly defeated. Sean Small, a Year 12 GCSE Home Economics student, represented the school in the Forestside Young Chef of the Year competition too. A representative from the Livestock and Meat Commission gave cookery demonstrations to Year 10 pupils.

All pupils at Key Stage 3 completed practical exams and coursework. Seventy four Year 10 pupils passed the Royal Society of Health Food Hygiene exam.

Ms Laura McCaul who was on placement from UUC, left in June and will be replaced by Ms Catriona O’Boyle for the academic Year 2016/17.

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ICT AGM 2015-2016

Staff 2 full time Pupils at KS3 237

(118 Yr 8 and 119 Yr 10 pupils)Pupils at KS4 88

(37 pupils in Yr 11 (29 ICT and 8 Computer Science) and 51 pupils in Yr 12)Pupils at KS5 35

(18 pupils in Yr 13 and 13 pupils in Yr 14)

The department follows the CCEA ICT Specifications at GCSE, AS and A Level and the WJEC Specification for GCSE Computer Science.

Results for Summer 2016 are as follows:A* A B C D E U

GCSE ICT 51% 23% 12% 10% 4% 0% 0%

AS ICT N/A 11% 39% 17% 22% 5.5% 5.5%

A Level ICT 15% 23% 15% 39% 8% 0% 0%

Year 11 pupils were entered for a Module, allowing pupils to complete a 30% unit of work. The results were extremely pleasing with 100% gaining an A* or A grade (69% A* and 31% A).

Results Compared with NI Grammar School 3 Year AverageAquinas Grammar School(Summer 2016)

NI Grammar School(3 Year Average)

Differential

GCSE (A* - B) 86.3% 87.4% -1.1%

A Level (A* - C) 92.3% 81.8% +10.5%

Departmental Focus for 2015 / 2016The ICT department contributed to the implementation of the new School Development Plan. The main focus was to improve Teaching and Learning within the department. This was fulfilled by fully embracing the Data Tracking facility available on SIMs, by examining assessment across KS3, GCSE and A Level and by using chance predictors and baseline testing to predict target and aspirational grades for pupils. This meant that the department was fully informed on academic achievement by every pupil and was able to monitor and put into place strategies for pupils that were not reaching their potential. The department continued to implement the marking and literacy policies and shared good practice through ‘Trusted Colleague Network’ classroom visits. The department continued to use iPads to enhance learning in the classroom and for administrative tasks. The department introduced an after school HTML programming club where pupils were introduced to advanced HTML and CSS coding; this was in preparation for a HTML competition which the children attended in March 2016. GCSE Computer Science was introduced to the curriculum. Resources and schemes were developed for the teaching of this new GCSE. Time during the latter part of the summer term was devoted to preparing for the new AS Digital Technology specification.

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Careers Education, Information and Guidance (CEIAG) The ICT department realises the importance of educating pupils with regard to Careers. Pupils received opportunities to investigate rewarding careers in ICT throughout the 2015 – 2016 academic year. Advice on GCSE ICT, GCSE Computing and A Level Digital Technology, and associated career paths was also disseminated to parents and pupils during the Options Days in March 2016. The ICT Department made a significant contribution to the Careers’ Insight Evening in February, with a number of local and global ICT companies being represented on the night. In June Years 8-10 girls attended a coding day delivered by the Nerve Centre at Ulidia. This coding course allowed the girls to code using ‘python’ and ‘littlebits’ software as well as programming ‘dash and dot robots’ to talk, move and collide with objects. In March Year 9 and 10 pupils entered a HTML competition in conjunction with W5 and Allstate. One year 9 and two year 10 boys attended the competition at Strathearn School. The boys were rewarded with gift vouchers for their hard work and determination throughout the day.

Professional DevelopmentThe department attended a support event in May, held in Assumption Grammar School, Ballynahinch, for the new AS Digital Technology Specification and a support event for the WJEC Specification in February in Antrim Grammar School.

The year 2015 – 2016 again saw a high level of academic achievement at all levels; GCSE, AS and A2 level. ICT continued to be a very popular subject with two Yr 11 and three Yr 12 GCSE ICT classes and strong numbers at both AS and A2 level. The introduction of GCSE Computer Science was welcomed by pupils and eight students are currently studying the course. The Junior ICT program continued to give pupils the skills required to make full use of the ICT provision within Aquinas. The programming content allowed pupils to gain a taste for the ever expanding software development industry and the Yr 10 classes meant pupils could make informed choices for GCSE. Links with Allstate, W5 and the Nerve Centre at Ulidia continued and the ICT department welcomed Mrs Karen Parsons to the department from January to June 2016.

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IRISH AGM 2015-2016

Roinn na Gaeilge

The academic year 2015-2016 was a very productive one. The teaching staff in the department consisted of two teachers. Both members of the teaching staff are senior members of the senior examining teams with CCEA. Their experience of working for CCEA adds to the quality of the teaching and sharing of good practice within the department.

103 students were studying Irish in Key Stage 3, 15 were preparing GCSE Irish and 3 students were studying in sixth form. It was pleasing to note that the total number studying Irish in school remained consistent. We also have a cohort of students who come from Bunscoil and Irish speaking backgrounds and they contribute significantly to Irish in the school and participate in the activities run by the Irish Department.

The Irish department follows the exam specifications laid out by CCEA. The department was very pleased with the results attained by the Irish students in public examinations. 100% of our A2 students gained an A grade in their examinations. 100% of our AS students gained a grade A – C. 100% of our GCSE students gained A*-C grades.

The Irish department, in accordance with the spirit of the School Development Plan continued to roll out data tracking across all year groups. The assessments and data collated were used to effectively inform teaching. All pupils are encouraged to participate fully in their learning and a variety of teaching strategies are used to encourage teachers and pupils to share their experience with their peers. The Irish department also further developed resources for controlled assessment for the revised GCSE specification. More emphasis was also placed on the use of ICT in the classroom.

The teachers in the Irish department are very aware of preparing their students to take up the challenges of the world of work and efforts have been made to incorporate useful careers information at relevant stages of the pupils’ progress. Pupils are told about courses available to them and they are also made aware of the wide opportunities available to language graduates. Emphasis is put on the value of the transferable skills acquired when learning a language. The topic of professions and work is also studied in Year 10 to coincide with the work of the Careers department.

We continued to work collaboratively with our neighbouring primary schools. As part of the celebrations for European Day of Languages, students of Irish delivered lessons in local primary schools. Pupils from the Bunscoil ‘An Droichead’ took part in a quiz with our pupils and enjoyed taster sessions of Spanish and French which were delivered by our Modern Language Assistants and Form 6 students.

Apart from striving for academic excellence, all pupils are encouraged to enjoy the wide range of cultural experiences open to them. In February pupils took part in making St Brigid crosses. An event celebrating linguistic diversity was also held in the library in European Languages Week. The Irish department also participated in Language Film Day and the Year 8 pupils enjoyed a special showing of ‘Yu Ming Is Ainm Dom’. A céilí was organised for Year 8 for St Patrick’s Day.

This year we continued to emphasise the importance of motivating our pupils to use their Irish. Special congratulations go to our Year 10 pupils who achieved the ‘Fáinne Airgid’ ( silver fáinne ) at the end of Key Stage 3. Pupils took part in Feis Bhéal Feirste and also in GAA oral competitions. The

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school entered the Ashbourne Shield oral competition and two of our Year 10 pupils won scholarships for the Gaeltacht.

In June, we invited the organisers of courses in Rannafast to speak to parents of those interested in going to the Gaeltacht and we were delighted with the response. A number of our junior pupils attended the summer course for juniors in Coláiste Bhríde, Rann na Feirste in the Donegal Gaeltacht. A number of our older pupils attended Loch an Iúir courses.

We are very pleased that so many of our students not only performed well academically, but also took advantage of the opportunities provided by the department to use and improve their Irish in cultural and social settings outside the classroom.

Rath Dé ar an obair.

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MATHEMATICS and NUMERACY AGM 2015-2016

In 2015 – 2016 there were 7 specialist Mathematics teachers contributing to the teaching of Mathematics. This included 3 full-time and one part-time Mathematics teacher (4 days), 1 part-time Mathematics teacher (one of two Maths Specialists attached to SEN Dept), one out-sourced teacher of A-level Further Mathematics and the school Principal (teaching AS level Mathematics and Further Mathematics).

Pupil numbers across all key stages are very strong:

Key Stage Pupil NumbersKS3 352

KS4 (GCSE Mathematics) 232 (44 with GCSE Maths completed June 2015)

KS4 (GCSE Further Mathematics) 85

KS5 (A-Level Mathematics) 79

KS5 (A-Level Further Mathematics) 5

High numbers were sustained in GCSE Further Mathematics and A Level Mathematics numbers showed an increase of 16% from last year, resulting in two very large AS classes.

Results in the Mathematics department were as follows:

GCSE AquinasA*-B 2016

Aquinas 3 yr Average A*-B

NI 3 yr Average A*-B

Year 11 CCEA GCSE Higher Tier

100%(49% achieved A*)

86.1% 77.0%

CCEA GCSE Mathematics

83.0%(100% A*-C)

86.1% 77.0%

CCEA GCSE Further Mathematics

87.5% 84.0% 80.7%

A level A*-C Aquinas 3 yr Average A*-C

NI 3 yr Average A*-C

CCEA AS Mathematics

82.2% 76.8% -

CCEA A2 Mathematics

90.0% 88.0% 87.4%

CCEA AS Further Maths

66.7% 72.2% -

Edexcel A2 Further Maths

100% 100% 95.9%

The Mathematics department was very pleased with the continued high standard of achievement at GCSE with 100% of students achieving A*-C in each of GCSE Mathematics and GCSE Further Mathematics and the percentage of students scoring A*-B in each subject above the NI 3 year average. GCSE Mathematics results were particularly pleasing at almost 10% above the NI average. The 2016 AS results were strong, with 44% of students achieving a Grade A and while AS Further

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Mathematics results are not as strong, it is expected that greater exposure to core A2 Mathematics this year will result in much improved grades for these students. In the first A2 results with CCEA, the A2 A*-C percentage was almost 10% higher in 2016 than in the same results for 2015 with Edexcel, this supporting the move to CCEA. Once again A2 Further Mathematics results were very pleasing, with 100% A*-B grades.

At KS3 the Mathematics Department delivered two Using Mathematics tasks, including one of three end-of-key-stage tasks. Engagement in this task enhanced pupil learning and students were provided with appropriate feedback. The remaining tasks, as well as the reporting of Year 8 and Year 9 tasks, were again cross-curricular.

These tasks also address Communication and ICT and the process of developing these tasks further is ongoing, to ensure that a robust and appropriate standard in the cross-curricular skills is achieved, thus contributing, in line with the School Development Plan, to the development of these skills for every student.

The KS2 / KS3 Numeracy transition project continued during 2015-2016, in line with an agreed action plan, with further meetings between the Head of Mathematics, Head of English and a local Primary School. This action plan has now been extended to continue the sharing of good practice into 2016-2017. In addition the Head of Department and one other teacher participated in professional development sessions run by the Board and this training impacted on teaching and learning across the Department.

For the first time, students in KS3 and KS5 were given the opportunity to enter for the UKMT Mathematics Challenge. Sixteen students chose to enter for the senior (KS5) challenge in which one student achieved a gold award and also qualified for the next round, five achieved silver awards and two achieved bronze awards. Five students entered for the junior challenge, with one student achieving a silver award and two achieving bronze awards. It was felt that the challenge was enriching for students, providing an extra dimension to their Mathematics experience. It is planned that the Department will continue to provide this opportunity for students and extend it to include a KS4 challenge as well.

In line with the School Development Plan, ‘Together Towards Improvement’, ‘Every School a Good School’ and Count, Read, Succeed, the Mathematics Department set short, medium and long-term targets with main foci for 2015 – 2016 as follows:

to identify students across all key stages, and particularly at Key Stage 4, requiring support and to provide a clear support mechanism which will enable students to achieve their potential

to enrich pupil experience of Mathematics and their learning of it by providing a variety of active learning and differentiation experiences both within the Mathematics classroom and at an extra-curricular level

to continue to use professional development opportunities, in particular the KS2/3 transition project, to improve pupil learning and develop greater Numeracy confidence and competence

CEIAG continued to be a focus for the Mathematics Department. Career opportunities and paths were highlighted by all staff within the department through discussions prompted by new topics, pupil questions and option decisions at GCSE and A level and KS4 and KS5 students researched a range of careers, identifying within them the Mathematics entry-level requirements and the skills needed. Staff continue to develop their own knowledge and this year a member of the Department attended an information evening in the QUB Management school. The Careers Insight Evening was the culmination of months of planning, providing opportunities for students to gain information

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about a wide range of STEM careers and the variety of routes and opportunities available to reach these careers.

Staff in the Mathematics Department embraced a range of opportunities for professional discussion and development. The Head of Mathematics, as teacher Governor, participated in Governors’ meetings and attended BELB training relating to this as well as attending A Level feedback from CCEA and Using Mathematics and Communication training to ensure continued effective leadership of the Mathematics Department. In addition the Head of Mathematics and one other teacher attended KS2/3 transition Numeracy CPD days which had the focus of improving teaching and learning and opening students to greater success in Numeracy by improving pupil engagement. This project has facilitated links with a local primary school and the potential for rich exchange, beneficial to student experience and learning, is enormous.

The long-standing relationship with the QUB PGCE Department continued. The Head of Mathematics was on the interview panel for admission to the PGCE Mathematics course for 2016-17 and the Aquinas Principal, Teacher tutor, Head of Mathematics and Using Mathematics Coordinator had the opportunity to address and influence teachers and leaders of the future when twenty-eight PGCE Mathematics students visited the Mathematics Department for an afternoon. This event was rated by the PGCE students as a highlight of their course but also benefitted the Mathematics department by encouraging reflection on achievements and future goals. It will be repeated in 2016-17.

All staff participated in Ipad training and, as always, there was participation in other school trips and visits and marking of GCSE and A level scripts by some staff. Sharing of good practice through classroom observation and discussion at departmental meetings continues to be encouraged. As best practise is shared from all of these, the department continues to see on-going improvement of the pupil experience in the Mathematics Department.

Whole-staff training in use of Year 11 Yellis results for bench-marking was valuable, giving insight into how Yellis provides increased opportunity for improved identification of need. Bench-marking of students at Key Stage 3 and 4 now happens in Years 8, 9, 10 and 11 and is used as part of the ION and support process in the Mathematics Department, alongside Yellis results and internal Data Tracking results.

Enrichment was provided through the UKMT challenge as well as occasional (pop-up) sessions covering a variety of topics at different levels. In addition the team of KS5 students who provided support as Mathematics mentors for younger students proved to be one of the strongest teams to date with both mentors and mentees benefitting from the experience.

The Mathematics department continued to monitor student progress carefully, offering support and opportunity to all students. This was done at a fundamental level through provision of Further Mathematics at GCSE and A Level for very able students, a now-established January module opportunity for Foundation students, including after-school support by a member of the Mathematics Department, coordination of the lunch-time student mentoring programme, liaison with the SEN team and liaison with anxious parents. All teachers offered an ‘open door policy’ which was used frequently at the start of break or lunch, in free periods and after school by interested or worried students of all years as well as by examination classes during study leave. Students from across all key stages participated in Open Morning in the Mathematics Department, engaging with P7 pupils and parents in a variety of activities, gaining confidence from the experience and ensuring by their enthusiasm that the experience of those visiting was extremely positive.

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In addition, as a trial, 13 low-achieving Year 11 students, identified as a concern, were provided with additional support and sat a Foundation paper alongside the mandatory Higher Tier paper in June. Seven of these students have now already achieved Grade C or higher (one achieved grade B) and continue to study Higher Tier with the target of improving this grade.

While no single major event stands out as a highlight of 2015-2016, many small events and successes contributed to a sense that students in the Mathematics Department had rich opportunities as well as solid teaching. The commitment and enthusiasm of all staff, and pupil awareness and appreciation of this, continues to be very clearly seen in the high number of students choosing to study GCSE Further Mathematics and A level Mathematics and Further Mathematics as well as the willingness with which students engage, as mentors, in the mentoring programme.

In 2015-2016 the Head of Mathematics was delighted to have the opportunity to address the Education sub-committee of the Board of Governors and share with them the planning and vision of the Mathematics Department and the opportunities and support currently provided for students. As a reflective Department which regularly reviews and self-assesses, this vision is not static and the Department continues to move forward with enthusiasm and on-going commitment to self-improvement.

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MOVING IMAGE ARTS AGM 2015-2016

The numbers of students studying Moving Image Arts in 2015/16 are as follows:

Key Stage No. of Students Studying Moving Image ArtsKey Stage 3 N/AKey Stage 4 33Post-16 19

Staffing StructureOne teacher has been teaching this subject on a Full-time basis over 5 days per week

ExaminationsWe continued to follow the CCEA specifications at GCSE and A Levels and we’re delighted with our results;

Aquinas Moving Image Arts Results 2016

Level Grade A*-B Level Grade A-C Level Grade A-B

GCSE 100% AS 100% A2 100%

Celebrating ExcellenceThe department celebrated Ethan Milner’s success after being awarded Best Film Task in GCSE unit 1 and Ryan Loughran’s third place Best Animated Film in the 2015 CCEA Moving Image Arts showcase. Seven students from GCSE, AS and A2 films have been short listed and entered into the annual CCEA Moving Image Arts Awards Showcase for 2016. This unique event has is sponsored by City of Derry Crystal as part of the Foyle Film Festival. The award screening took place at the Queens Film Theatre as part of the annual Cinemagic film festival in Belfast. The department was delighted to be informed that Clare McAuley year 14, Eilis Crickard and Aobh Hughes in year 13 had been successful in their application and selected to take part in the BFI film academy for Northern Ireland. This programme allowed the three students to experience working with the film industry alongside industry professionals. They took part in workshops and seminars and worked as part of a small team to produce their own short film; this work was showcased at the QFT in Belfast. Katie O’Rourke’s work from the 2014/15 BFI film academy was screened as part of the Belfast Film Festival in 2016.

Focus for Department 2015-2016The department has engaged and fully implemented the Ipad using various applications into everyday teaching and learning. Classroom Observation/Learning Walks through the trusted collegue network focused on Ipad usage and feedback included missed opportunities for AFL.

The department can demonstrate extensive use of Showbie as a paperless classroom tool to enhance teaching and learning as well as assessment. Quizlet, Padlet and other Ipad apps for media and film studies revision tools at examination level have been utilised. The department has rolled out Idoceo across all classes to monitor pupil attendance and assessment. Mr McClean provided in-house training as part of the ICT core group on Idoceo and individual 121 support throughout the school year. Mr McClean attended advanced level training at Nerve Belfast on the use of Google classroom applications.

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A new scheme of work has been written based on the resources from the GCSE new spec support event and reviewed in June 2016, additional resources have been added. Portfolio clinic feedback from CCEA has also enabled a more accurate assessment of the controlled assessment element worth 60%. Mr McClean successfully completed training in Digital literacy via online course in collaboration with Into film and Future Learn with certificate awarded. This led to the reviewing of all schemes of work and the production of new resources to support the new specification.

CEIAGThe Moving Image department had representatives from the creative industries in attendance at the Careers Insight evening. We were delighted to welcome back past pupil Aaron Eccles form Draw and Pen productions, Titanic Creative Management, Cinemagic and A.V Browne.

As part NI Science Festival in February 2016 the department hosted representatives form Into Film and Giant Media. The talk focused on STEM and the creative industries paying particular attention to the role of Special Effects within the film and animation industries.

Year 13 and 14 attended University of Ulster’s Faculty of Art, Design and the Built Environment’s Information Evening in October 2015 and later these year groups attended the end of year degree shows in June 2016.

Students attended various events gaining an insight into careers within Moving Image Arts in their visits to the Coca Cola Cinemagic film festival 2015 and took part in the INTOfilm festival week of events in November 2015.

Two year 14 students represented Aquinas at the BAFTA Careers insight evening at the QFT Belfast as part of a networking event on May 2016. Here they had the opportunity to liaise with industry specialists to discuss developments in the creative industries and gaps in the skills sector.

Channel 4 awarded four places to A Level students who took part in their Belfast Pop Up event that was travelling the UK in May and June 2016. This networking event provided an opportunity for students to gain an insight into the production industry roles. The students took part in group activities, attended workshops and pitched ideas to Channel 4 Executives.

Links with Community/Outside AgenciesThe department continues to develop links with other post primary schools that offer Moving Image Arts at GCSE and A-Level. This link enables participating schools to share best practice and teaching resources. The department continues to be an active member in the MIA teacher Google group. This year Aquinas students worked in collaboration with pupils from five other post-primary schools from Belfast. This project focused on the generation and production of a short documentary film highlighting Mental Health issues affecting teenage children. This project was ponsered by Belfast City Airport and NIAMH facilitated by Cinemagic.

Our links with Cinemagic continued with 3 students selected to appear in a music video that represented Females within the creative industries. These students sang and danced in the video that was shot at BBC NI over one weekend; the outcome will be showcased in the autumn term 2016 at a special assembly conducted by those who took part. As part of the Cinemagic Festival two AS level students were appointed into the Cinemagic film jury, here they watched and critiqued short films for the festival and awarded prizes to submissions.

Professional Development

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Mr McClean continued in his role at CCEA as Specification Writer for the revision of A-level specifications in both Moving Image Arts and Art and Design. He also continued the role of Moderator of AS Level Unit 1 in the summer series of examinations. Mr McClean attended the GCSE, AS and A2 Level Moving Image Arts agreement trial and the launch of the new specification at CCEA. In June 2016 Mr McClean attended a week long training programme at Nerve Belfast focusing on advanced special effects training for Final Cut Pro. Further training was completed the theory elements of AS and A2 Moving Image Arts to support the new specification.

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MUSIC AGM 2015-2016

There are currently three full-time teaching staff and 12 part-time peripatetic tutors working in the music department. We offer peripatetic tuition to all students and in June 2016 there were 219 students receiving this tuition, attending an individual half-hour weekly lesson on a rotational basis. The fee, which is £13.50 per half hour lesson, is paid directly to the relevant tutor. The entire KS3 student body at Aquinas, approximately 360 pupils, studies music in one 80 minute timetabled lesson per week. At GCSE this year there were 10 students in our year 12 music class and 10 in our year 11 class. We had 18 in our AS and 5 in our A2 classes respectively, including 8 students from OLASPK and St Malachy’s College, all of which illustrate a healthy interest in music in Aquinas.

We currently follow the CCEA specifications for music at both GCSE and A Level. Our results are excellent and are well above the Northern Ireland average for our subject. In the last 3 years: 84.4% of our GCSE students achieved grades A*-B (with 97.6% achieving A*-C), with 100% this year and 70% achieving an A/A*. The NI 3 year average for A* - B is 89.4%. At A Level, once again, 100% of our A Level students achieved grades A*-C with 80% at A2 achieving an A/A* which is undoubtedly a remarkable achievement. The NI 3 year average for A* - C is 88.4%. Whilst we are obviously delighted with these results we are continuously striving to both maintain and improve on these. We continue to enter students for external instrumental and vocal exams with both the ABRSM and Trinity Guildhall exam boards and the results are excellent. In April 2016 our ABRSM average result was 121/150 (equivalent to a Merit) well above the National ABRSM average of 117, with many Merits and Distinctions awarded at all levels. We make a large contribution to the extra-curricular life of the school and, last October, we staged our Musical production, Grease. We also held our annual Spring Concert to a capacity audience, as well as providing music for the Macmillan Coffee Morning, Open Morning, the Celebration of Achievement, Masses for years 8 and 14, Masses to mark the Ulster Project, one for Grandparents, one for Deceased teachers and a Whole School Mass, both at the Good Shepherd Church. Our senior students also take music outside the school and into the local community, including seasonal events in Nazareth Care Village and Glenveagh Special School.

The music department fully supports the School Development Plan. The three permanent members of the department are members of the following working groups: Central Leadership Team, Assessment and Reporting, Lesson Monitor and Gifted and Talented, and we endeavour to help everyone as much as we can. We are constantly evaluating our teaching and the learning experiences of our students and we set annual Targets: we will continue to address cross-curricular themes at key stage three; further consolidation of Music Technology into the Year 9 and Year 10 Schemes of Work through the use of Sibelius 6 to compose; we will also look at, and devise, a policy for Gifted and Talented and their provision in Music; we would like all tutors to think carefully about performance programmes for external exams and, in particular, this year we will focus on improving communication through the use of the pupil practice notebook which should be signed each and every week by a parent/guardian. We also encourage our students to be independent learners by reading and listening ‘around’ the subject.

We promote music at third level and careers in music through a designated notice board at the back of N02. Here students can find out about a range of future career paths and options regarding music, including the specialist area of CUKAS. We also have strong links with several external agencies, including CBSM, CBYO, UYO, UYJO, UYC, National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain, National Youth Orchestra of Ireland, MT4Uth, St Peter’s Schola Cantorum, St. Anne’s Cathedral Choir, Fortwilliam Musical Society and the Belvoir Players. We actively encourage our students in their music making both in outside school and Aquinas Students from all year groups were involved in these successes, meaning that we are a wholly-inclusive department.

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Notices and information are renewed on a regular basis and are available for perusal all around the Music Department. The Head of Department is an Examiner for Music at both GCSE and GCE levels and is also involved in the SBALC.

Our students are very successful both in and outside school. Last September several students went on to study third level music at The Royal Northern College of Music, the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, The Royal Scottish Conservatoire of Music, Dance and Drama, the Universities of Oxford, Cambridge and Manchester and Queen’s University, Belfast. Many of our current Year 13 and 14 musicians are seriously considering a career in music, and are just beginning the application process to do so, including the Conservatoire route.

Last year was another busy one. This year gets off on a high as all our extra-curricular activities resume and we prepare for this year’s performances and achievements. We are very proud of all of our students and their musical abilities.

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PHYSICAL EDUCATION AGM 2015-2016

The Aquinas Physical Education Department has three full time members of staff. Physical Education is a compulsory subject in key stages 3 and 4. Physical Education is offered at both at GCSE and A Level.

At GCSE Level the specification followed is CCEA. 24 candidates sat the 2016 exam with 100% achieving A*-C compared to the NI Grammar School Average of 81.7% A*-C. At A Level Aquinas follows the OCR specification. At A2 Level 6 candidates sat the 2016 June exam with 100% achieving A*-C compared to the NI Grammar School Average of 69.5%. Aquinas from 2016 no longer follows OCR and have changed A level to Ccea Sports science and the Active leisure industry an applied subject. In the first year of the new A level AS 2016 achieved 100% A-C.

Physical Education in Aquinas Grammar makes a unique contribution to the overall education of every student by providing meaningful movement experiences which will challenge the physical and intellectual development of the students through relevant cultural activities. Each student participates in a broad balanced Physical Education programme which, at key stage 3, includes Gymnastics, Games, Swimming and Athletics as the minimum entitlement.

In order to contribute to the curriculum objectives during Key Stages 3 and 4 in Aquinas we want our pupils in Physical Education to:

1. Know (knowledge and understand)2. Be able to do (skills)3. Be like (attitudes and dispositions)

The skills, knowledge and understanding developed build on the learning already achieved in key stages 1 and 2. At Key Stage 4 students will progress gradually towards more adult forms of activity and cope with increased physical demands. As they continue to experience success in the full range of movement contexts, they should begin to identify personal preferences and areas where higher levels of performance may be achieved. Continued achievement and progress in physical performance should maintain a positive attitude towards participation. The students should reach a clear understanding of the place of regular exercise in everyday life. In line with the Northern Ireland Curriculum Aquinas Physical Education Department aims to empower pupils to achieve their potential and to make informed and responsible choices and decisions throughout their lives. It is about helping all pupils prepare for life and work:

1. As individuals;2. As contributors to society;3. As contributors to the economy and the environment.

Schools are now seen as the most important context for promoting healthy lifestyles in pupils. Health Related Physical Education (HRPE) in Northern Ireland has been shown to positively influence children’s knowledge of and attitudes towards physical activity. Physical Education has a significant role to play in this. The Curriculum at Aquinas emphasises Physical Education’s role in: providing pupils with regular, frequent and appropriate physical activity opportunities, information and guidance; encouraging and empowering pupils to make informed and responsible choices about the role of physical activity in their lives.

At present the extra-curricular profile at Aquinas is vibrant. A wide range of activities is on offer. This is the result of the dedication and commitment of the PE department and other members of staff.

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Our main activities include Cross Country, Basketball, Gaelic Football and Netball, with teams entered annually at all age levels. Alongside this we field teams in a range of other activities. In 2015-6 other extra-curricular activities included Golf, Athletics, Tag Rugby (Ladies), Rugby, (Pollock cup and the secondary schools’ cup) with support from Ulster Rugby coaches, Soccer , Ladies Basketball and Special Olympics Basketball supported by Queen’s Basketball Club, Camogie and Hurling.

From the school curriculum to extra-curricular to club coaches to the extended use of facilities Aquinas provides opportunities and a framework whereby physical activity has a place in school and extends in partnership with the local community.

Highlights of the school year include the annual events of ‘Health Day’ with outside speaker Stephanie Ingram, a dietician from Diary council and personal trainer ‘Fitness Freddie’, Sports Day and events in a variety of games for years 8-10 held on site at Aquinas and the accreditation of all Year 12 students in the’ British Heart Foundation’ CPR course. Invites throughout the year included a Health day for year 10 at Ulster Rugby. GAA Wheelchair Hurling for year 11. Sports Volunteering Schools Roadshow jointly organised by Ulster GAA, IFA and IRFU (Ulster Branch) for exam students. Female Leadership Day – Belfast Met in conjunction with NI Sports Forum hosted a range of activities for Year 8 girls – Camogie, Soccer, Gaelic, Hockey and Rugby – March.

Active Communities Programme – Tag Rugby – Hosted an Inter Schools Tournament involving Ashfield, Wellington, St Louise’s – December.

Sport – a home for Lifelong Volunteering delivered by Ulster Rugby, Ulster GAA, IFA held in Kingspan Stadium and Aquinas mid-September.

This year the Department worked in partnership with the Bfit team at the Loft situated on the Ormeau Road using their facilities and expertise to assist in strength and conditioning training skills for A level students developing as personal trainers, the senior Gaelic squad training each Monday morning pre-school time and an afternoon slot for those interested in strength and conditioning.

Netball

From year 8 onwards ten teams were entered for the Belfast and Northern leagues and the Northern Ireland plate and cup. Year 9 had a fantastic year winners of the Belfast league and then the Northern Ireland League Champions. In year 9 six of the players represented Aquinas at the RDS clinching the runners up title. Year 10 had a good season with marginal defeats at league and cup semi-finals. Five of the squad represented Aquinas at under 15 RDS and won the Northern Ireland title. Further to this two players were talent ID at the tournament and have begun training with the National under 17. Three Aquinas students currently our training at under 17 national squad level. Year 8 reached the semi-final stage of the Belfast league.

Athletics

9 competitors represented Aquinas at the Co. Down, Athletics Championship held over two days at the beginning of May at the Mary Peters Track. Two competitors qualified for the Ulster Championships, held on the 21st May at the Antrim Forum. Malachy Moreland, Year 10 for the High Jump and Peter Gracey, Year 12 for both the 800m and 1500m. Peter was invited to trial for the N. Ireland Mountain Running Team. At the Ulsters Peter Gracey achieved a Silver Medal in the 800m. This meant he went on to represent Aquinas at the All Irelands on the 4th June at Tullamore.

Cross Country

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A number of races were entered this season. The St Genevieves race for Years 8-10 starts the running season mid-October. This race helps to prepare competitors for the Co Down Championship. A second venue was trialled this year at Our Lady and St Patricks College Knock mid-December.

20 runners entered the main event for the racing calendar - the Co Down Districts. Aquinas where heavily involved in the organisation of this event this season. The conditions were difficult underfoot due to the inclement weather conditions prior to the event. Well done to all runners who competed in the Districts at Delamont Park on the 28th January. The races started with the Mini Girls (Year 8). Iseult Fahy qualified for the Ulsters. In the Intermediate Boys race Peter Gracey finished second to also qualify for the Ulsters at Mallusk Playing Fields on the 10 th February. Further success was attained by Peter Gracey at the Ulsters, finishing third to qualify for the All Irelands. The All Irelands took place on the 5th March in Sligo.

Unfortunately the Ormeau Park Race did not go ahead this year. This event in the past was organised by Belfast City Council.

Basketball AGM

A successful year for basketball in Aquinas with the U15s winning the Ulster league at B level defeating Rathmore in the final. Eoin Nagle also captained the U18 NI team at the inter-regionals in Waterford

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PHYSICS AGM 2015-2016

Pupils study KS3 physics in Year 10, CCEA GCSE and Double Award Physics in year 11 and 12. In years 13 and 14, pupils study CCEA A level physics.

There are 3 subject specialist staff in the Physics department RESULTS FOR 2016

A2 Level Physics

No. A* A B C D E A*& A%

A*-C%

A*-E%

NI Gr av %

A*-C

%18 0 2

111056

16

422

16

11 73 10080.7

In keeping with the School Development Plan, “Together Towards Improvement” and “Every School a Good School”, the department focussed on

i. participating in classroom observationsii. developing a range of experiments and activities using data loggers for use in A level, GCSE

and KS3 lessons.

GCSE Astronomy was introduced as an extra-curricular GCSE for year 11 and 12 pupils. The course was taught by Dr McHugh and Mr Faherty in after-school and before school classes and also during a weekend residential at Cultra in November. Thirteen pupils completed the course and achieved 100% in grades A* to C with 43% achieving A* and A grades. On December 9th, 15 year 11 girls attended the Girls into Engineering day at Queens. This event was organised by Caterpillar and QUB and was focussed on giving the girls hands on experience of opportunities in engineering.

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Year group Number studying10 11811 Double Award 2011 GCSE Physics 5612 Double Award 1112 GCSE Physics 6613 AS Physics 3014 A2 Physics 18

AS levelPhysics

No. A B C D E U A-C%

A-E%

%30 5

178

275

177

2313

413

1861

2687

GCSE Physics

No. A* A B C D E A*&A%

A*-B%

A*-C%

NI Gr Av %

A* – B

%66 13

19.724

35.920

29.77

10.91

1.61

1.6 56.1 86.4 98.8 82.2

RELIGIOUS STUDIES AGM 2015-2016

Staffing HOD - Mrs Naoishe Hampsey, Mrs Emma Niblock, Ms Pauline Mc Anulty, (Ms Kerri Mc

Gurk) Fr Colin Grant No. of students KS3: 352 No. of students KS4: 231 No. of students KS5: 26

At Key Stage 3, the Fully Alive programme was followed.Our GCSE students followed the AQA programme of study:–Unit 5: A study of Mark’s Gospel Unit 4: Roman Catholicism: Ethics

GCSE Grade 2016 Grade % AQUINAS 3 Year Average

N.I. 3 Year Average

A* 44 A* 39.3% 86.59% 78.4%

A 41 A*-A 75.9

B 12 A*-B 86.6

C 12 A*-C 97.3

D 1 A* - D 98.2

E 2 A* -E 100

F A* -F

Total 112

Our A Level students followed the CCEA programme of study:-Unit 2 – Luke’s GospelUnit 6 - EthicsThe department enjoyed excellent results as outlined below:

A2 Grade 2014 Grade % AQUINAS 3 Year Average

N.I. 3 Year Average

A 5 % A*- A 29% 100% 89.1%

B 10 %A*- B 88%

C 2 % A* - C 100%

Total

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Sixth Form Religious Programme

As in previous years, the programme was delivered on a modular, rotational basis. In the delivery of this programme, we have chosen topics which will hopefully enable us to prepare our students morally and spiritually for an increasingly secular world. This programme has been enhanced with the use of guest speakers including Trocaire, Habitat for Humanity, Shaharp and Carecall.

Departmental Focus

Our focus for 2015 -2016 was to plan and prepare for the changes being made by the Department of Education. To that end, the department moved to CCEA at GCSE and our outgoing year 11 sat 50% of their full GCSE in June 2015. The department were delighted with the standard of results achieved by our current year 12s and feel this has helped encourage and motivate them to maintain and improve the grades received.

Alongside this the department made efforts to make effective use of the ipad within the classroom. Quizlet was used predominantly at KS3, with Showbie proving to be a useful tool in KS4 and 5 – especially with A Level students.

At KS3 and 4, and to comply with ‘Together Toward Improvement’ the department also used a wide range of assessment for learning strategies, including self and peer assessment, and formative use of summative assessment outcomes. Pupils work was marked frequently and consistently in ways which highlighted the strengths of the work and gave feedback on what the pupil needed to do in order to improve. The Department again employed the school strategy to formalise this (WWW/EBI). Pupils themselves identified personal learning targets which were monitored by pupils, parents and staff. The department made efforts to ensure that learning experiences were of a high quality and were matched to the individual needs, inspirations and interests of the pupils. Alongside this the department employed a focus on the use of starters and plenaries within the classroom, with the aim of ‘hooking’ student interest and consolidating learning experiences. Feedback from pupils was very positive and the department will continue with this good practice.

Careers advice and guidance was given to our KS4 and 5 students throughout the year. As always, prior to the options afternoon, our GCSE students were advised on how A Level RE can be useful for particular professions, with emphasis on how the skills required in the subject make it attractive for certain career prospects. The department also had a number of speakers who attended the Careers Insight Evening in March. Representatives from a variety of professions met and spoke with our students: Education, Social Work, Nursing, Midwifery, Law and The Red Cross – Conflict Resolution were a few examples.

The department continued to support the spiritual life of our students with daily Mass, Advent services, Christmas celebrations, Penitential services and other liturgies. This Year a ‘Faith In Action’ Group was established. With a membership of over 20 pupils, with representatives from a variety of year groups within the school, the group met each week to pray together and plan positive ways to put our faith into action within the school community. They were the driving force behind many of our whole school liturgies, in particular the Advent Service, an Assembly for Catholic Schools Week and the Penitential Service for junior students. They also made display boards in November – the month of prayer for the Deceased and in May – the month of Our Lady. This FIA group also had two excursions. In December, Bishop Noel Treanor chose St Patrick’s Church, Donegall Street to host the Holy Door for the Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy, and The FIA group were in attendance at that liturgy. They also enjoyed the Clonard Novena in June.

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The Year 8 Welcome Mass was held in September and in April, the department again facilitated a Grandparents Mass. Years 10, 12 and 14 tutor groups went on retreat and all our students found the experience very positive and worthwhile.

The department hosted one student teacher from St. Mary’s University College during the year.

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SCIENCE AGM 2015-2016

Key stage 3 Science is taught by the nine subject specialists. In years 8 and 9, pupils are taught an integrated curriculum and in year 10 they study the separate sciences of biology, chemistry and physics.

At GCSE level the students follow the CCEA GCSE Double Award specifications, being taught by subject specialists during eight periods per fortnight.

Double award science results 2016

2014 No ** A*A AA AB BB BC CC CD DD A*& A%

A*-C

%

NI Gr 3yr av

%11 1

9.1327.2

327.2

218.2

218.2

19.1

0 0 19.1 61.5 90.9 76.6%

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Year group No of pupils

Year 8 science 118

Year 9 science 116

Year 10 sciences 120

Year 11 Double award science 20

Year 12 Double award science 11

SOCIOLOGY AGM 2015-2016

Academic year 2015-2016 was another highly successful year for the Sociology department.

The subject continues as one of the most popular A Level subjects and the majority of returning students chose to continue their studies through to A2 Level.

Once again the examination results were pleasing at both AS and A2 Level.

The A2 students were particularly successful with 100% achieving Grade A-C and within that group 57% achieved A*- B grades and 40% A*-A.

This year also saw several students decide to study the subject in more depth at degree level. This clearly highlights the enjoyment and value they found in their A-Level studies.

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SPANISH AGM 2015-2016

The Spanish Department is made up of two full-time Spanish specialists. The language assistant plays a key role in the preparation of A level pupils for the Speaking element of the exam. We also work with our Teaching and Learning assistants from Mexico and those with a Spanish degree to help and support our pupils..

Key Stage 3: 297Key Stage 4: 141Key Stage 5: 32

September 2015 commenced with 11 Year 14 students entering A2 level Spanish and 21 beginning AS level. It was decided to continue with the CCEA syllabus at A Level.

Results

GCSE ( 64 Pupils)

Aquinas Cumulative % NI Cumulative AverageA* 18.8 19A*-A 35.8 39.8A*-B 57.8 66.9A*-C 79.8 90.3A*-D 95.4 97.7A*-E 97 99.3

AS Level (21 Pupils)

Aquinas % NI Cumulative AverageA 8 38 27.8A-B 7 71 59.7A-C 3 86 80.3A-D 3 100 92.8

A2 Level (11 Pupils)

Aquinas % NI Cumulative AverageA* 7.1A*-A 4 36 34.5A*-B 3 27 67.6A*-C 3 27 89.9A*-D 1 9 96

The focus of the department was to review self-evaluation procedures and feedback in line with whole school policies as well as a focus on lesson starters.

Ms P Rivas provides the Department’s ongoing link with QUB Spanish and Portuguese Dept as lectora de conversación there also. Her role with Final Year students provides great insight for A level pupils.

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CEIAG is promoted throughout the Schemes of Work in each Key Stage as well as through a variety of activities which include visiting guests to the Department to raise pupil awareness of the many opportunities open to them through the study of languages.

Staff attended a variety of Professional Development courses throughout the year. These included:

CCEA Speaking Agreement trials for GCSE controlled assessment;CCEA Examiners for AS Speaking Module 1.CCEA Examiner for GCSE Reading paper.Attendance on the Teaching and Learning NI course.

Colleagues disseminated the information to the department on the various courses.

KS3As part of the European Day of Languages the Spanish Film ‘Sons of Cuba” was shown to the Year 10 students. The Aquinas Spanish Society continued as an opportunity for pupils to practise their Spanish outside of the classroom through films, games, quizzes and competitions.

KS4The sixth cohort of pupils successfully completed the new GCSE with controlled assessment.AS/A2 levelYear 13 pupils taught Spanish lessons in our feeder Primary Schools as part of European Day of Languages.

The Spanish Dept. piloted the use of Showbie as a tool to give pupils access to Teachign and Learning resources outside of school and to allow for independent learning and stretch for most able, with extra support for those requiring it. The Spanish Department wiki http://aquinasgrammarspanish.wikispaces.com/ was continued to allow pupils to access learning resources outside school.

The Spanish Department is a vibrant, dynamic one which aims to offer our pupils a variety of interesting and challenging learning opportunities. Through the study of language and Hispanic culture, the department strives to equip Aquinas pupils with a learning experience which allows them to develop as effective, responsible and ethical contributors to their local and global community.

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TECHNOLOGY & DESIGN AGM 2015-2016

Staffing: 3 staff members No. of students KS3: 360 No. of students KS4: 57 No. of students KS5: 9

Results Analysis 2013/14 CCEA board is studied from GCSE to GCE AS/A2

AS Results –9 studentsAquinas No. % R NI A-C NI Gr school averageGrade A* - - -Grade A 7 78% 47.4+ 30.4%Grade A-B 2 100 34.5+ 65.5%Grade A-C - 100 9.9+ 90.1% 90.1%Grade A-D - 100 97.8%Grade A-E - 100

GCSE–17 studentsAquinas No. % R NI A-C NI Gr school averageGrade A* 6 35% +26.6 8.4%Grade A*-A 14 (8A) 82% +46.4 35.6%Grade A-B 17(3B) 100 +23.7 76.3% 74.2%Grade A-C - 100 +75 92.5%Grade A-D - 100 - 98.9%Grade A-E 100 - 99.8Grade A-G 100 - 100

Focus of T&D department in 2015 -16The focus of T&D department in 2015 -16 was in line with these targets:-

Contribution to School Development Plan.1. To employ the use of a PIE/PIM & YELLIS results for use in data tracking for target setting..

All students to be given a target grade based on their score in the PIE/PIMS & Yellis tests2. To continue to review AFL in KS3 in relation to the Marking policy. (written feedback every 8-

10periods) All students to receive regular written feedback, given the 2 week timetable this will be approx. every 6-8 weeks in KS3 and every 2 weeks in GCSE/GCE. The format of the written feedback to be www (what, went well) & ebi (even better if).

3. Focus on further developing tasks for KS3 ICT with a particular focus on the use of CAD/CAM from yr8 -10. This will be a joint departmental task as all teachers teach year10. We also intend to develop the task in line with the upcoming requirement for KS3 levels in ICT.

4. To continue to improve the focus on improved Literacy skills at KS3 within classroom practice through sharing good practice and identifying exemplar work for using with all pupils especially those having difficulty.

5. Focus on all pupils achieving A* - C emphasis on effective feedback at GCSE - AS/A2. This will be conducted by HOD and Mr. K Black (yr11 & 12).

6. Focus on developing tasks for Using Maths.In conjunction with UM co-ordinator HOD to investigate developing a UM task at yr10

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7. The further promotion of CEAIG will also be developed throughout KS3.

Promotion of ICT, Literacy and Numeracy within the departmentThe areas of ICT, Literacy and numeracy continue to remain an important focus within the Technology & Design department. All year groups are now learning CAD (Computer Aided Drawing) and Year 9 and 10 use the laser cutter CAM (Computer Aided Manufacture) for their practical work. The department enhanced its guidelines for the common marking of pupils’ work using the agreed mark code and highlighting the common presentation policy. Literacy continues to be an area which we place a high emphasis where the pupils evaluate their work and the work of others through their research. There is a large emphasis on the students making full use of their vocabulary book by identifying Key technological words.

Promotion of CEIAG within the department

CEIAG remains an important focus within the Technology & Design department. In line with the targeted CEAIG tasks Work related learning vocabulary is used daily in the delivery of lessons as each task is related to the role of a product designer, manufacturer, and engineer in the work place. There is provision through the STEM club (yr8-14) for the students to meet with engineers from NIE, Thales & Bombardier and participate in the STEM Bus on a regular basis at various times throughout the year in their pursuit of STEM related activities. The Technology & Design department also works closely with the Careers department to attend STEM related careers talks when available. All of our A’level graduates have gone on to pursue careers in STEM areas ranging from Engineering, Product Design & teaching.

Professional Development within department

Staff are encouraged to attend courses as and when the need arises to obtain knowledge of new equipment/computer programmes and to update skills in accordance with Health & Safety requirements. The HOD continues to be an A2/AS Assistant Principal Examiner with CCEA and prepares and presents material for agreement trials.

Summary of the main highlights of the academic year

In the school year 2015/16 Aquinas Technology & Design Department continued to be successful in their participation in regional competitions. The STEM club met every Wednesday from 3.30 – 4.30pm for the purposes of promoting STEM and encouraging participation in STEM related competitions.

KS4 – September 2015Forestside Young Product Designer CompetitionAquinas product designers’ work was exhibited in Forestside shopping centre for the last week of September 2015. On the last day the students were invited to discuss their work with the judges and all students performed very well.

KS3 & 4 – December 2015Lego League competitionThis regional competition was part of a worldwide organisation the 1st Lego league firsthandtechnology.org.uk. As part of the challenge the team had to: Program a robot to complete tasks relating to the Challenge using LEGO® MINDSTORMS®

technology.Research and prepare a presentation on the theme of ‘Senior Solutions’.

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The team worked very hard with our engineer from NIE and a great day was had by all.

KS3 & 4 – December 2015 Stem Bus Once again we had the STEM Bus visit Aquinas this year in December where year11 and year12 students completed a module in PIC Programming and in February when the STEM bus was equipped with up to date CNC manufacturing machines and all GCSE & GCE students had the opportunity to convert their Computer Aided Drawings (CAD) to real life models on the various Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines. This completed a major part of their coursework.

KS3 & 4 – June 2016F1 remote control racing car competitionThis was the first year of this competition sponsored by Forestside shopping centre. The team of KS3 & 4 students had to build the remote control car and practice racing it around obstacles before the Grand Prix in Wellington College The Team performed very well and came 1 st

overall, not forgetting to mention Mr Black winning the teacher’ race!

The overall vision of the Technology & Design department is to actively promote a positive perception of Technology & Design within its role as a STEM subject. To promote its relevance in many career choices by providing inspirational teaching & learning experiences both inside and outside the classroom that will engage and enthuse the students to further develop their studies in this area.

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Year 8 AGM 2015-2016

Staffing for the year included Year Head, four Tutors and six Teaching and Learning Assistants. There were 118 pupils (60 male and 58 female) in year 8 allocated into four class groups (8J, 8P, 8B and 8F).

As in previous years the early focus for Year Head and Staff was the induction of the Year 8s into Aquinas school life. This was helped by the first day, when the students met their tutors, senior members of staff and prefects from the senior school. The students were given a tour of the school, essential stationary and advice on the early days at the school. During the first months of Form Period the tutors covered topics to aid the successful introduction into secondary school, such as organisation, acceptable behaviour and expectations. The Year 8 Welcome Mass and Induction for parents took place on in October, as usual this was very well attended and gave parents and tutors an early chance to meet.

During Form Period throughout the year the Tutors covered a number of topics such as Bullying, Healthy Lifestyle and Exam preparation (this included a revision booklet pre November and June exams which offered advice and hints to students on preparing and coping with exams and the facility to record their own revision lists for each subject). The Year group was heavily involved in Fundraising throughout the year for causes both within and outside the school. They must be commended for their enthusiasm for charity events, support they gave to participants and the large total of money they raised.

Data Tracking was actively used during the year to record academic achievement and behavioural issues. This was very useful for tutors, enabling them to easily oversee the progress of each student and highlight any concerns early. It should be noted that the Homework Diary is still vitally important at this stage as an essential form of communication with parents. Identification of Needs took place at the end of term one and again proved a very useful tool in assessing the new intake of students and identifying any early issues. Any students highlighted with concerns were recorded and action was taken in the following term depending on the needs of the student.

On Friday 4th September the Year 8 group took part in the Young Enterprise Programme “Your School Your Business”, which was an excellent introduction to school life and a great way for them to mix friendship groups. The year 8 students later in October had the opportunity to avail of the “Safety Bus” which was a very informative and enjoyable session provided by Translink. We also had our annual visit from the Gideons who presented each student with their copy of the bible during a special assembly.

The year group were set the task at the start of their year to join at least one of the many extra curricular clubs within the school. The uptake was very pleasing across the year group and activities. We had many successes including excellent progress in, girls and boys basketball and cross country and gaelic football. Musical activities were also widely attended and the students displayed excellent talent which bodes well for the future. The internal exams during December and June demonstrated the excellent academic ability of the students across the curriculum and there was much improvement throughout the year.

The vast majority of the year group settled quickly and gave time and effort throughout the year to school activities and their subjects. It was particularly pleasing to see how the year 8 students embraced the house system this year and were the forerunners of promoting its virtues. They began to develop a culture of achievement, improvement and ambition to succeed as the year

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progresses, which was excellent in comparison to the 118 individuals that stared on Wednesday 2 nd

September 2015. The year was completed with a fun day including a trip to the cinema.

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Year 9 AGM 2015-2016

Staffing for the year included the Year Head, four Tutors and five Teaching and Learning Assistants. There were 117 students in Year 9 allocated into four class groups (9M, 9J, 9P and 9F). The students’ academic progress and their general welfare were monitored by their Tutors. Students attended weekly tutorial periods to discuss their progress and a Year assembly took place every second Friday with the Senior Teacher and Year Head.

The focus for Year 9 in accordance with the Aquinas School Development Plan ensured that the students in the Year Group where central to the delivering of the pastoral programme.

The Year Head commenced her role at the start of October. The Senior Teacher had previously been overseeing the settling back process and target setting of the year 9’s.

Throughout the year in tutor period and/or during assembly a range of topics were discussed – study skill, anti-bullying, health and personal development, alcohol awareness, relationships, making decisions and taking risks.

CEIAG became an integral part of Year 9 with one timetabled class per week. Outside speakers were invited in to speak to the Year Group, these included SHARHP, (who gave a talk on drugs and alcohol), First Trust (who gave a talk on the importance of saving and e-safety) and the Head Boy (who spoke about his time at Aquinas and the importance of giving back to Aquinas).

Student progress was mapped using the SIMS tracking system and an Identification of Need Google doc. The analysis of these results enabled the Pastoral Team to ascertain which students would benefit from an individual study plan. Students who had notably achieved when comparing their marks to their PIMS/PIES were congratulated by the Year Head. Likewise those who underachieved were TACT by either the Year Head or tutors depending on how many subjects they underachieved or how far their average mark was when compared to their PIE and PIMS score.

The Year Head with help from the tutors monitored the students carefully in terms of their behaviour and organisation, using the homework diary and lesson monitor. Students were very aware that 4 notes in the one subject meant they would have to sit lunch time detention with the Year Head. Likewise Friday afterschool detention was used (on a rare occasion) for those who had sat numerous lunch time detention or serious misdemeanors. Students appreciated this positive behaviour policy as it was clear, they knew our expectations and repercussions.

It should be noted that the homework diary is still vitally important at this stage as an essential form of communication with parents. I encouraged tutors to check the diaries were signed on a weekly basis. Parents attended the annual PTM and received reports from teachers, tutors and Year Head on their child’s progress.

Alongside academic achievement Year 9 embraced all aspects of Aquinas life. The Year group was heavily involved in fundraising throughout the year for causes both within and outside the school. They must be commended for their enthusiasm for charity events (especially the Bake Off and Christmas Caring Appeal) and the large amount of money they raised.

The year group was set the task at the start of their year to join as many extra-curricular clubs within the school. The uptake was very pleasing across the year group ranging from music, sports, book clubs, cooker, women in technology and IT to name but a few. I also encouraged each form class to lead two assemblies during the year. The themes ranged from Christmas, friends, bullying,

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Saints, Trocaire etc. The students enjoyed taking ownership of the task selecting the theme, type of activity (song, role play, art work) and creating the prayers themselves.

To conclude the year all students celebrated the year with an end of term assembly and a social trip to the Odyssey cinema. Like previous assemblies students came up with their own idea on how to celebrate and remember their time in Year 9. Approximately 20 students missed the trip die to participation on the Ghaeltacht programme. These students loved the independence and interpersonal development residential trips bring.

All in all, it was a very successful year whereby students excelled and flourished academically, spiritually and personally.

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Year 10 AGM 2015-2016

Staffing for the year included the Year Head, four Tutors and four Teaching and Learning Assistants. There were 118 students in Year 10 allocated into four class groups (10E, 10R, 10S and 10T). The students’ academic progress and their general welfare are monitored by the Tutor. Students attend weekly tutorial periods to discuss their progress and a Year assembly took place every Friday with the Senior Teacher and Year Head.

The focus for Year 10 in accordance with the Aquinas School Development Plan ensured that the students in the Year Group where central to the delivering of the pastoral programme.

The academic year started with a focus on Behaviour, Uniform, Manners, Punctuality and Homework. Each student started the year with a reflection on his/her performance in Year 9. Planning for the way forward was discussed and monitored by parents and Tutors. Targets were set to enable progress. Targets were reviewed when each student individually met with his/her Tutor. This may have meant looking at organisation, attendance, acceptable behaviour, expectations and taking an active role in the school community.

Throughout the year in Tutor period and/or during assembly a range of topics were discussed – learning, personal hygiene, study skills, exam preparation, managing influences and making decisions, drugs and alcohol, money matters and bullying. CEAIG continued to be integrated, with one timetabled class per week. Subject choices for GCSE had been a major focus this year. Careers Guidance, interviews for each student and outside speakers all were availed of by each student and were paramount in the decision making process.

Student progress was mapped using the SIMS tracking system and an Identification of Need staff day at the end of the first term. The analysis of these results enabled the Pastoral Team to ascertain which students would benefit from an individualised study plan. Communication with parents is regular and supportive. The analysis of Data Tracking and SIMS Lesson Monitor continued each term to record academic achievement and behavioural issues. This was very useful for Tutors and Year Head, enabling them to easily oversee the progress of each student and allow for early intervention to address any concerns. It should be noted that the Homework Diary is still vitally important at this stage as an essential form of communication with parents. Parents attended the annual parent – teacher meeting and received reports on their child’s progress.

External agencies that contributed to the Pastoral Programme in Year 10 included Nexus – On-line sexual exploitation and SHARHP Lisburn YMCA - Drugs, Smoking and Alcohol.

This year the students must be commended for their enthusiasm and contribution to extra-curricular activities within the school. Many successes were attained by the year group in music, sports – Basketball (Ulster Champions), Golf (Darren Clarke School Golf League Winners), Table-Tennis, Camogie, Gaelic Football and Netball, the book club, IT, Moving Images, Photography and Science clubs to name but a few.

To conclude the year all students celebrated the year with an end of term assembly and a social trip to the Odyssey Arena. This was an enjoyable day to celebrate the end of a great year. It was also a very poignant day as the year group reflected upon their time as students in the Junior School.

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Year 11 AGM 2015-1016

The Year 11 Pastoral Team consisted of five Tutors, six Teaching and Learning Assistants, Year Head and the Link Senior Teacher. There were 117 pupils in the Year group, comprising of five Tutor groups – 11B, 11F, 11J, 11M and 11P.

The focus for the start of the year was on the transition into new groups, as classes had all been split at the end of Key Stage 3. From the onset students were supported by their Tutors to ensure their move into Year 11 was a smooth one.

An Induction Evening was held mid-September for the Year 11 parents and students. The purpose of this evening was to inform both parents and students of the examination process. This encompassed Modules, Controlled Assessments, study and organisation tips and the Pastoral structure and support. It was delivered by the Principal, Senior Teacher, Mrs O’Hagan and the Year Head. The tutors followed up the talks with work in Tutor period.

During Tutor period Tutors covered a number of topics such as Personal Development, Study Skills, Drugs and Alcohol, Bullying, Healthy lifestyles, Emotional and Social development and Exam preparation. House activities were organised for the Year group during Term one.

Data Tracking and the SIMS Lesson Monitor were continuously utilised throughout the year to record academic achievement and behavioural issues. This enabled the Pastoral team to oversee the progress of each student thus enabling early intervention to address any concerns. The Homework Diary is also important in this process. It is an essential form of communication with parents. Identification of Needs took place after each set of assessments. Any students highlighted with concerns were recorded and action was taken by the Pastoral team to enable each student to strive to reach his/ her potential.

Outside agencies worked with the school to deliver training to the Pastoral Team on Alcohol and Drugs. In addition to this the Year group attended a presentation on Mental Awareness.

Students in the Year group contributed to Aquinas Caring at Christmas and the Trócaire Campaign. The Year 11 Tutor groups were represented on the Students’ Council by their chosen class representatives. Many students were involved in an array of extra-curricular sporting activities and their achievements were highly commendable. They participated in Gaelic Football, Camogie, Netball, Basketball, Hurling, Duke of Edinburgh and Tag Rugby. Many pupils achieved personal successes in a variety of sports in their chosen out of school activities and these were shared in Year Group assemblies. A number of students received Grade certificates for instruments and voice this year and were eager participants in the school choirs and orchestras. The Year 11 students had the opportunity to apply for the Ulster Project exchange to America and many availed of the opportunity, spending 3 weeks with families in various parts of the United States. At the end of June some students were members of the annual trip to Rome.

May and June was a very busy time with all Year 11 pupils sitting GCSE examinations. In preparation for these exams throughout the year students were able to avail of specialised support in various Departments after school, mentoring from Year13/14 students, advice and support from Year 12 students and the continuous support of the Pastoral team.

During the final week of Year 11 students participated in Work Related Learning. This proved to be an invaluable experience for students engaging in work placements that may become their chosen career.

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Year 12 AGM 2015-2016

Staffing for the year included the Year Head, five Tutors and three Teaching and Learning Assistants. There were 116 pupils in year 12 allocated into five class groups (12C, 12L, 12M, 12N and 12S).

The focus for the year was target setting with each student consolidating the year 11 results to date and drawing up personalised strategies to reach the set aspirational targets. This focus was further supported by the year 12 Induction Evening presented to parents. The triangle of support between school, pupil, and parent was well endorsed on the evening. A full outline of the year ahead informing the entire forthcoming calendar of controlled assessments, mock exams and moderation dates were discussed including the available support mechanisms on offer to the students. The tutors worked continuously with students throughout the year monitoring their progress via Sims, data tracking and 1:1 interviews. In this busy year the tutors placed an all-out effort to assist the students with the demands of Gcse study. Excellent preparation time was allocated during tutor time. The tutors and year head provided a mentoring system to the year 12 and regular contact was made with home. The Pastoral Team recognised the increasing needs of our students as examinations grew closer. The pastoral programme supported our students steering them through their external GCSE examinations. We focused on dealing with exam stress, coping strategies, self-awareness, self-respect, and on-line safety, anti-bullying and mental health. Ceaig continued to be a strong feature this year with one class timetabled per fortnight. In March consultation with staff and parents took place to select A level options for the forthcoming year. Prior to this each student received an interview with Margaret McGuigan (DELNI) to help in the decision making process. This service was also available on options day.

The year group continues to participate in the wide range of extra – curricular activities on offer at Aquinas. The uptake was very pleasing across the year group we had many successes including excellent progress in athletics, Gaelic football and netball. Musical activities were also widely attended and the students displayed excellent talent especially at the annual spring concert and school production Grease.

The Year group was heavily involved in Fundraising throughout the year for causes both within and outside the school. They must be commended for their enthusiasm for charity events and the large amount of money they raised.

The vast majority of the year group settled quickly and gave time and effort throughout the year to school activities and their subjects. The students’ culture of achievement, improvement and ambition to succeed grew stronger as the year progressed.

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Year 13 AGM 2015-2016

Year 13 consisted of one hundred and seventeen students divided into four form classes. The tutors were Mrs Cunningham, Mrs T Maguire, Ms Cameron and Mrs Loughrey. With Ms Cameron and Mrs Loughrey being part-time, two other tutors filled in. They were Miss S Maguire and Mrs Hart.

Our students participated fully in the AS-level curriculum and continued to engage in numerous extra-curricular activities. We advertise these opportunities widely and encourage students to participate. A few examples are: the Young Enterprise Scheme, Bar Mock Trials, Sentinus R&D, Pope John Paul II, Ski Trip and Aquinas Community links.

Student achievements ranged from music to academic to sporting activities. Among the list of achievements are the successes of the school netball, basketball and Gaelic footballers as well as excellent fundraising totals for Trocaire and other charities. This is by no means an exhaustive list and individual subject related activities are listed in the departmental AGM reports for this academic year.

Some notable achievements however were: Eoin Nagle being selected to captain the Northern Ireland U18 basketball team, Eve Maguire and Aine Wills successfully completing the Youth in Government Programme and going to UK Parliament as part of the programme and Caoimhe Quinn winning the Northern Ireland Soroptimist competition. Our year 13s were also well represented in the U18 team that won the Brother Nolan Gaelic Football final.

An Induction evening for parents and students was held in September 2015. The event addressed the requirements for A-level courses, career development and the role of the sixth form student. In December the parents and students celebrated the Year 13 students’ GCSE achievements and in February, 2016 all Year 13 students successfully completed one week work placement.

The tutors worked closely with the students and subject teachers to track and review academic progress. Continuous evaluation was carried out by the Pastoral Team. The analysis of the data tracking, winter and mock examination results enabled tutors to provide support for students for whom it was deemed necessary and implement Action Plans. Communication with parents was regular and supportive and positive achievements were congratulated. The Positive Behaviour Policy was followed closely and Tutors also interviewed all students as part of the TACT initiative.

The Pastoral Team recognised the increasing needs of our students as examinations grew closer. The main focus for this academic year was providing a pastoral programme to support our students and successfully steering them through their external examinations. We focused on dealing with exam stress, coping strategies, self-awareness, self-respect, on-line safety, anti-bullying and mental health. We invited guest speakers to address the students on specific topics, including Mental Health. Careful attention was given to the CEAIG programme and this was geared to ensuring pupils made informed AS-level choices – i.e. which subjects to keep on to A2, whether or not to continue with four subjects etc. An analysis of the AS-level results is provided by the Principal.

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Year 14 AGM 2015-2016

Year 14 consisted of a year head, four tutors and a student body of 100. 2 students decided to repeat year 13. The four Tutor groups were 14C, 14D, 14G and 14J. Each tutor monitored the academic progress and the general welfare of his or her tutees. Students attend weekly tutorial periods to discuss their progress and take part in group discussions on a range of pastoral and social issues.

The tutors worked closely with the students and subject teachers to track and review academic progress. Continuous evaluation was carried out by the Pastoral Team. The analysis of the data tracking, winter and mock examination results enabled tutors to provide support for students for whom it was deemed necessary. A new Directed Study Log was introduced following Data Tracking 1 with a number of students identified and assisted throughout the year with regular meetings with the Year Head. Communication with parents was regular and supportive and positive achievements were congratulated. The Positive Behaviour Policy was followed closely with a thorough emphasis on punctuality and uniform. Tutors also interviewed all students as part of the TACT initiative. The Pastoral Team initiated Coffee Periods in response to student requests.

The Pastoral Team, recognised the increasing maturity and independence of our students. With this in mind during form period a number of areas of personal development were covered including; student finance, bullying, target setting, coping with stress and study skills. Past Pupils provided a Pupil Voice, informing the Year 14 students of what was required at A2 both socially and academically. We invited guest speakers, to address the students on specific topics, including Mental Health, transport issues and study skills. The Electoral office for NI came in to produce identity cards for the upper sixth and enrolled them on the electoral register. Translink gave an effective presentation on the process of applying for Y-Link cards which enable the students to travel at a reduced fare on public transport. The students were also very proactive in all the fundraising campaigns including the shoebox appeal, StoreHouse and the Trocaire campaign.

The main focus for Year 14 students was CEAIG. The Pastoral Programme, especially in the early part of the academic year was geared to ensuring pupils made informed decisions. The tutors also collaborated well with the Careers Department to ensure all UCAS deadlines were met. Students attended Open Days at both Queens and UUJ and a CAO presentation was also delivered to pupils and parents in September. Extra-curricular activities continued in sport, drama and music.

The school year ended with two very successful events. The Leaver’s Dinner was a well organised and enjoyable experience for the large numbers of pupils and staff in attendance. The Leaver’s Mass undoubtedly provided a fitting end to a busy year for all involved. Parents and pupils attended in large numbers and again the event was extremely well organised.

AGM 2015-16 Page 70