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Saint Cecilia’s Church of England School
www.stceciliaslondon.comSaint Cecilia’s Church of England School - Prospectus for Year 7 Entry 2021
Contents:
An Introduction to Saint Cecilia’s Church of England School: Opportunities to Flourish:
Welcome by Renata Joseph, Headteacher Prefects, School Council, Year Council
Staff and Governors House Captains, Sports Captains, Charity Captains, Eco Captains
Provisional Term Dates for 2021-22
Exam Results Admissions and Appeals:
Leavers’ Destinations Foundation Places
The School Day Open Places
Specialist Music Places
Curricular Offer: Tie-breaker
Specialisms: Music and Mathematics Application Procedure and Timetable
Physical Education including our Rugby Academy Continuing Interest List
Curriculum Plan Appeal Arrangements
More Able Pupils Fair Access
Special Educational Needs Special Educational Needs
Our Library Admission of children outside their normal age group
Extra-curricular Opportunities: Frequently Asked Questions
Clubs
School Trips Step by Step how to apply
Competitive Sport and our links with Wimbledon Tennis
Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards
Pastoral support:
Mentors
Houses
Well-Being and Mental Health Support
Chaplaincy and Spiritual Support
The Bethany Centre
2Saint Cecilia’s Church of England School - Prospectus for Year 7 Entry 2021
An Introduction to Saint Cecilia’s
Church of England School
Welcome by Renata Joseph, Headteacher
A warm welcome to you, from myself and the Saint Cecilia’s family. I am sorry that the current situation
does not allow us to meet in person, but I hope our prospectus will answer some of the questions you
have, and give you an insight into our wonderful school.
I am immensely proud to be the Headteacher of Saint Cecilia’s Church of England School. We are an
inclusive, co-educational and community orientated academy, for pupils and students, aged 11-18 years.
Specialising in the teaching of Music and Mathematics, Saint Cecilia’s is a well-respected and
oversubscribed school. Teaching is exceptional, our curriculum is challenging and standards of behaviour
are high.
Proudly Christian, we value the uniqueness of each individual made in the image of God. Our success
‘You and your team have created a and culture for learning and achievement is built upon a commitment to Christian values and high
caring, supportive and successful expectations of all in our school community. Faith, service, courage, justice, hope, love, reconciliation and
community, are at the heart of our school family and firmly rooted in our ethos and relationships.
learning community where pupils
Our school mission statement ‘Glorifying God through outstanding, enjoyable education’, spells out what
attend regularly and achieve well. we seek to achieve and why.
Pupils reported that they feel safe Our school scripture “I came so that you may have life, and have it abundantly” ( John 10:10), is one I
and well supported in school. hope resonates with you all, whether you have a faith or not, because at its essence, it means we offer
an abundance of opportunity and inspiration for all. Everyone at this school is invited to realise their
The school’s ethos is underpinned potential, thrive and flourish.
by the Christian faith and is much We are on an exciting journey, as we aspire to be a ‘Great’ school. A school with a Great Curriculum,
valued by parents and carers and that is full of opportunity. A school that offers pupils and students Great Learning experiences, in and
beyond the classroom. A school with a culture of Great Professionalism amongst all, and a school which
pupils.’ understands the importance of Great Partnerships with parents and the community.
Whether you are a prospective student, parent or colleague, I am excited that you are considering joining
Ofsted 2018 us on this journey, and look forward to an opportunity to meet you in person, at some point in the future.
3Saint Cecilia’s Church of England School - Prospectus for Year 7 Entry 2021
Staff and Governors
Board of Governors
The Governing Body is committed to the school’s mission ‘Glorifying God through outstanding, enjoyable
education’ and to raising the standards of achievement of all our pupils and students. The membership of
the Governing Body comprises both elected and nominated representatives: parents, staff, the community
and Local Authority.
Name Category of Governor Date of Appointment
Renata Joseph Headteacher 23rd April 2019
James Ewins QC Chair of Governors - Diocesan Foundation Governor 12th January 2017
Martin Andrews Vice Chair of Governors - Diocesan Foundation Governor 31st January 2016
Revd. Greg Prior Bishop of Kingston Representative/ Foundation Governor 1st March 2015
Chris Baker Diocesan Foundation Governor 12th January 2017
Nicola Wild Diocesan Foundation Governor 12th January 2017
Hugh Constant Parent Governor 1st January 2018
Alison Miller Parent Governor 1st September 2019
Carl Membery Co-opted Governor 1st September 2019
Nicola Anthony-Jones Staff Governor 1st September 2019
Mike Cox Staff Governor 1st September 2020
Fiona Simpson Foundation Nomination Governor 1st September 2020
Graham Wilson Advisor on Premises and Building Matter 1st September 2020
- until expansion
project is complete
4Saint Cecilia’s Church of England School - Prospectus for Year 7 Entry 2021
Year Leaders Senior Leadership Team
Year 7: Rosie Lonsdale Renata Joseph Headteacher
Year 8: Alexander Bishop Ann Kennedy Deputy Headteacher (Teaching and Learning - Curriculum)
Year 9: Christopher Luke Paul Bishop Assistant Headteacher (Director of Sixth Form)
Year 10: Mairead Gibbons Andrew Gillespie Assistant Headteacher (Staff Development and Professionalism)
Year 11: Louise Thompson Andrew Harrington Assistant Headteacher (Student Achievement)
Years 12 and 13: Joanne Osborn Anessa Lee Assistant Headteacher (Student Personal Development and Leadership)
Jonathan Miller Assistant Headteacher (Safety, Behaviour and Attitudes)
House Leaders
James Robinson Assistant Headteacher (Challenge and Partnerships)
Schubert: Sara Navarro Martinez
Dave Cobb School Business & Development Manager
Archimedes: Sophie Mouland
Ives: David Iannarelli
Newton: Sarah Wood Curriculum Team Leaders
Turning: Rachel Skinner Stella Allan Curriculum Team Leader for Art and Design
Alexander Bishop Curriculum Team Leader for Physical Education
Ewa Bednarek Curriculum Team Leader for Religious Studies
Liz Hogg Curriculum Team Leader for Science
Anessa Lee Curriculum Team Leader for PSHE
Lisa Morris Curriculum Team Leader of Business Studies and Computing
Omara Munoz Asensio Curriculum Team Leader for Modern Foreign Languages
Richard Noibi Curriculum Team Leader for Mathematics
Joanne Osborn Curriculum Team Leader for Geography
Alison Sharpe-Cousins Curriculum Team Leader for History and Politics
John Wells Curriculum Team Leader for Music
Claire Woodhouse Curriculum Team Leader for English and Drama
5Saint Cecilia’s Church of England School - Prospectus for Year 7 Entry 2021
Provisional Term Dates Exam Results
for 2021-22 Saint Cecilia’s has a strong academic record. Due to Covid-19, public exams for GCSE and A Level in
the Summer of 2020 were cancelled. Ofqual developed a new method of assessment, Centre Assessed
Grades, and all schools submitted predicted grades and rankings to exam boards for ratification.
The dates below are provisional. The School has
Although the Summer 2020 grades are comparable with those in previous years and have equal status
five INSET days each year for staff training and
with universities, colleges and employers, Ofqual guidance prevents us from publishing them. In line with
development where pupils and students do not
this, we have published our 2019 GCSE grades and our three-year average A Level grades below.
attend school. We also had a phased start to the
term in September 2020, with new Year 7 pupils
starting a day before the rest of the school. We are GCSE 2019:
evaluating this now and this could feature again
next year. Confirmed term dates will be published English: 87.4% (Grade 9-4)
on our website in early 2021. Mathematics: 77% (Grade 9-4)
Attainment Measure: 51.3
Autumn Term 2021
Wednesday 1st September - Friday 17th Average A Level results 2017-2019:
December
30% A*- A
Half term: Monday 25th - Friday 29th October
60% A*- B
84% A*- C
Spring Term 2022
Tuesday 4th January - Friday 1st April 2022
Half term: Monday 14th - Friday 18th February
Leavers’ Destinations
Each year our A Level and BTEC students win places at their first choice higher education destination. Our
Summer Term 2022 former students now study at some of the most prestigious universities including Oxford and Cambridge
Tuesday 19th April - Friday 22nd July colleges, Russell Group universities and Music colleges and Conservatoires.
Half term: Monday 30th May - Friday 3rd June They are studying for degrees in Engineering, Sciences, Law, Medicine, Economics, Mathematics,
Computing, Classics, Architecture, Music and Education amongst others. Those choosing to start work
after Sixth Form have secured a range of positions and apprenticeships.
6Saint Cecilia’s Church of England School - Prospectus for Year 7 Entry 2021
The School Day
Pupils must arrive before 8.45am each day. The school day starts at 8.50am. Pupils in Years 7-11 have a
short break of 20 minutes in the morning and a 40 minute lunch break. There are five one-hour periods
(lessons) each day. There is a 20 minute Assembly or Mentor meeting at the end of each day before
school ends at 3.10pm.
At the end of the formal learning part of the day, our extra-curricular provision provides additional
opportunities for pupils. Pupils are expected to attend at least two extra-curricular, enrichment or
revision clubs per week.
The school runs on a two-week timetable. This 10-day cycle is broken down into ‘Week A’ and ‘Week B’.
This provides greater flexibility to the curriculum and allows us to accommodate more subjects.
Monday - Friday
Years 7 and 8 Years 9, 10 and 11
8.50-9.50 Period 1 8.50-9.50 Period 1
9.50-10.10 Break (20 mins) 9.50-10.50 Period 2
10.10-11.10 Period 2 10.50-11.10 Break (20 mins)
11.10-12.10 Period 3 11.10-12.10 Period 3
12.10-12.50 Lunch (40 mins) 12.10-13.10 Period 4
12.50-13.50 Period 4 13.10-13.50 Lunch (40 mins)
13.50-14.50 Period 5 13.50-14.50 Period 5
14.50-15.10 Assembly/Mentor 14.50-15.10 Assembly/Mentor
15.10 onwards Extra-curricular 15.10 onwards Extra-curricular
7Saint Cecilia’s Church of England School - Prospectus for Year 7 Entry 2021
Curricular offer
Specialisms: Music and Mathematics
As a specialist Music and Mathematics school, provision for talented musicians and mathematicians is
outstanding. Every year, both departments consistently achieve excellent examination results at GCSE
and A Level.
Music
Our Key Stage 3 Music Curriculum is highly innovative, up-to-date and designed to cover all styles of
music to engage all our pupils in musical learning. All pupils have the chance to learn keyboard skills and
other instrumental skills in class. And if your child wants to learn a musical instrument or have vocal
coaching, we offer an extensive programme of paid-for music tuition at the school. These take place at
school during the school day or after school. Children have to opportunity to take either individual or
group lessons to learn the following instruments:
Violin Viola Cello
Double Bass Recorder Flute
Oboe Clarinet Saxophone
Bassoon Tuba Trumpet
French Horn Trombone Piano
Voice Drums/percussion Guitar – all styles
Musicians benefit from high quality resources and extra-curricular activities such as Concert Band,
In recognition of the excellent Orchestra, Jazz Band, Choir, Musical Theatre Club, trips to West End theatres, ENO and the Royal Opera
House. They also have the opportunity to perform at the Royal Festival Hall and attend an annual music
quality of Music education tour abroad. Recent trips have included Lake Garda, Bruges, Tuscany, Malta and Austria.
provided to pupils and sixth We frequently have a large number of pupils taking music at GCSE and students continuing to study
formers, the school has been Music to A Level or study our BTEC in Music Technology. To support students who wish to continue their
accredited with the Music Mark. Music studies into higher education, we have experienced mentors for expert guidance with university
and conservatoire applications, including Oxbridge.
8Saint Cecilia’s Church of England School - Prospectus for Year 7 Entry 2021
Key Stage 3 curriculum activities Specialist music places – Music Scholars
Eight Foundation and seven Open places will be offered to children who demonstrate that they have the
aptitude to benefit from a specialist course in music. As a music scholar, children receive a comprehensive
Boys’ PE Girls’ PE package of support. They receive funded instrumental or vocal lessons in Year 7 and are set more
challenging music work in curriculum lessons.
Football Netball
Rugby Hockey We organise a number of performance workshop sessions each term exclusively for scholars. They are
given a range of performance opportunities and play in regular concerts. We invite them to attend the
Basketball Basketball annual international music tour and they have priority access to our theatre, opera and concert trips.
Gymnastics Football Music scholars also have extra support and guidance from our Music staff for their personal musical
development. If you would like to apply for a Specialist Music place for your child, full information is in the
OAA – orienteering Gymnastics Admissions and Appeals section of this prospectus.
Fitness OAA – orienteering
Athletics Fitness Mathematics
Tennis Dance We adopt the Shanghai Maths Mastery style of teaching - mathematical concepts are covered
methodically and in great depth in every lesson. This revolutionary method of teaching equips pupils with
Cricket Tennis a long lasting understanding of Maths.
Badminton Rounders
We are also a Secondary Beacon School for the London South West Maths Hub. London South West. This
Soft Ball Athletics Hub is part of a national network of 37 Hubs that work together in the national Maths Hub programme.
Dance Trampolining Maths Hubs offer professional development opportunities for all staff in our Maths department. As a
Trampolining Badminton Secondary Beacon School, we host regular Maths ‘Open Days’ in which staff from other schools are
invited to Saint Cecilia’s to observe best practice in this field.
Handball
Physical Education
Recognising its importance to pupils’ well-being, our physical education provision is exceptional. We have
four members of highly qualified teachers who deliver a PE programme that embeds the key concepts
and key processes as outlined by the PE National Curriculum. All pupils have a timetabled PE or Games
lesson each week plus we offer a number of sports related extra-curricular opportunities. We have a
well-equipped sports hall, dance studio, and have the benefit of Wimbledon Park on our doorstep, which
we use regularly throughout the year for extra-curricular Rugby, Football and curricular Athletics in the
Athletics Stadium. We also take our pupils to Barn Elms Sports Centre in Barnes, which is a specialist
multi-sports facility for their curriculum Games lessons.
9Saint Cecilia’s Church of England School - Prospectus for Year 7 Entry 2021
Our Library
The Library at Saint Cecilia’s is a busy and essential resource accommodating almost 20,000 visits per
academic year. We have an excellent range of fiction books, from the classics to the latest best-selling
novels and graphic novels. The non-fiction collection covers curriculum subjects and topics of general
interest and is regularly updated. The library regularly organises events for pupils, including World Book
Day, National Poetry Day, book clubs, Whole School Read initiatives, author visits and book illustrator
club.
All children are automatically members of the library, and Year 7 groups attend an induction session in
September where they learn what we offer and what we expect. This includes using their school photo
card to borrow books and searching the catalogue for resources or seeing when their books are due for
return. Highly-trained staff offer support to pupils, from helping to research topics, to suggesting books
based on previous reading material.
10Saint Cecilia’s Church of England School - Prospectus for Year 7 Entry 2021
Saint Cecilia’s Rugby Academy, our London Irish
Partnership
We are rightly proud of our partnership with Premiership Rugby Club, London Irish. Each year, 26 Sixth
Form boys enjoy a package of weekly coaching and training from the professionals, all whilst studying for
A Levels or BTEC qualifications at Saint Cecilia’s.
Members of the Saint Cecilia’s Rugby Academy also benefit from strength and conditioning training,
nutritional support and opportunities to attend London Irish home matches and to meet the First Team
players.
11Saint Cecilia’s Church of England School - Prospectus for Year 7 Entry 2021
Curriculum plan
Key Stage 3 (Years 7 - 9)
Pupils have lessons in all National Curriculum subjects: English, Mathematics, Science, Music, Physical
Education, History, Drama, Geography, Art and Design, PSHE plus Religious Studies. One Modern Foreign
Language (French or Spanish) is taught in Years 7, 8 and 9. Homework is set regularly in each subject. At
the end of Year 9, pupils select their GCSE choices.
More able pupils
We are a partner member of the National Association for More Able Children in Education (NACE) and are
committed to improving provision for our more able learners.
National expectations for the high attainers are that they achieve at least grades 9-6 (A** - B grade
equivalent) in all subjects at GCSE. However, at Saint Cecilia’s it is expected that these pupils achieve at
least 9-7 grades (A** - A equivalent) in all subjects. Those who are identified as the High Attaining pupils
(based on Key Stage 2 test results) are given further challenge in lessons, through differentiated work,
higher order questioning or tasks that are more independent. All pupils in school are also provided with
challenging and thought-provoking lessons to give them the opportunity to develop their academic
strengths.
Pupils who display a particular strength within a subject area are also identified by departments as being
Gifted and Talented for that subject. Pupils may be added or removed from these lists throughout the
year. Teachers provide for these pupils through further challenges in lessons and may provide additional
mexperiences outside of lessons, with visits and trips to places of interest to help pupils develop their
passion and academic strengths in the subject.
Special Educational Needs
We offer a range of provision to support children with communication and interaction, cognition
and learning difficulties, social or health problems, or sensory or physical needs. Staff have access to
measures of attainment such as Key Stage 2 National Curriculum Test scores. This information will be
used to determine the support a child needs and whether this is in class or through additional support
outside the classroom. Progress continues to be monitored and tracked during their time at Saint
Cecilia’s.
12Saint Cecilia’s Church of England School - Prospectus for Year 7 Entry 2021
Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
Saint Cecilia’s Church of England School is a proud
Extra-curricular Opportunities
supporter of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards.
We are delighted to be offering the opportunity
for pupils to start the Bronze Award through the
school during Year 9 and Silver in Year 10.
Clubs
At Saint Cecilia’s, we are proud of the wide range of extra-curricular clubs available to pupils, including
The aim of the scheme is to help young people
sports clubs, music clubs, academic support sessions and hobbies. All clubs offered are free of charge and
plan and undertake their own programme of
are run by members of staff. Children should make the most of the clubs on offer and we expect all pupils
activities, which allow them to develop mentally,
to attend at least two extra-curricular activities per week. A list of extra-curricular clubs is published
physically, emotionally and spiritually, becoming
every term on the school website.
more motivated, disciplined and balanced as
individuals. It is not all about expeditions!
School Trips
The Award is equally about them learning new We organise a range of day and residential school trips in the UK and abroad to further our pupils’
skills, exploring cultural heritage, assisting people and students’ learning and provide them with rich and vibrant experiences. In recent years, trips
within the community, or simply doing what they have included educational visits to London museums and theatres, Geography field trips, skiing trips
love. to European resorts, musical tours for our orchestra to perform in Salzburg, Austria and Malta and
For our Sixth Form students, we are now also ecological expeditions to Africa.
running an ‘Open Offer’ for the much coveted Most day trips are offered free of charge, however there may be a small charge to cover the costs of
Gold Award, which means we will support workshops or entrance fees. Residential trips are by their nature more expensive. Bursaries and financial
students to plan and run their own activities. This support are available to those who may need help to meet the costs of day or residential trips.
will be invaluable for UCAS personal statements
and university or job interviews.
Competitive Sport and our links with Wimbledon
Ultimately, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards help
to bring the best out of young people in a non- Tennis
competitive environment. The skills they develop The school has strong Rugby, Netball, Athletics and Football teams, which successfully compete in weekly
are valued by employers and will continue to local and regional competitions. Our Rugby and Football teams are very strong, compete in established
reward them long into their working lives. inter-scholastic friendlies, and progress well in Regional and National competitions.
We run at least three Netball teams for each Year group. Our Netball teams have won a number of
trophies and are often crowned the South West London champions. Every year, our Athletics teams
successfully represent Wandsworth Borough at the prestigious London Games. This year, the boys’
Athletics team achieved the highest score at the Wandsworth Borough Athletics tournament.
We also have strong links with the All England Lawn Tennis Club and a number of pupils are selected each
year as ball boys or ball girls for the Wimbledon Tennis Championships.
13Saint Cecilia’s Church of England School - Prospectus for Year 7 Entry 2021
Pastoral support
Pastoral support is very strong at Saint Cecilia’s, and it sets us apart from other schools. We seek to
provide for the personal welfare of each individual child so that there are as few barriers to learning as
possible. We want pupils to leave us having achieved their full potential, able to think and make decisions
for themselves.
Each child has a mentor, is part of a House and can gain access to see one of our Well-Being Champions if
they need support.
Mentors
We are rightly proud of our Mentor system. Each child is assigned to a mentor group and mentor. The
mentor will keep an eye on each pupil’s well-being and academic progress and will liaise with parents and
teachers to ensure the pupil is happy, safe and making good progress. Mentor meetings take place three
times a week and are an opportunity for mentors to check-in with pupils individually, as well as creating
strong relationships within the group.
The mentors are a parent/carer’s first point of contact should you be concerned about anything. If the
query is subject based, the mentor will liaise with the relevant members of staff and respond to you with
feedback. Your child’s Year Leader can also assist you with any issues you might have.
Houses
Each Year Group is also divided into five Houses (S, A, I, N, T).
The Houses are named after famous Mathematicians and Musicians to reflect our specialisms. The House
system is extremely popular in school and provides a sense of competition, embodies our values and
ethos and is an integral part of our school community. The House Cup is awarded to the house with the
highest score at the end of each term, with the overall winner for the year announced in the end of year
assembly in July.
Pupils help to accumulate points for their House through their attendance, effort in school and behaviour.
There are also various Inter-House competitions held throughout the year, including Sports Day, Inter-
House Football competition, Saint Cecilia’s Bake Off and the Lip Sync Battle, with winners gaining points
for their Houses.
14Saint Cecilia’s Church of England School - Prospectus for Year 7 Entry 2021
‘Pupils’ well-being and emotional Well-Being and Mental Health Support
needs are considered fully. When
We train a number of students from Years 9 and 10 in mental health awareness and first aid to become
pupils experience difficulties, our team of Well-Being Champions. Working in pairs, they offer light touch support to children in Years
they benefit from good-quality 7 and 8 with issues such as building confidence in a new school setting, advice on approaching studies
guidance and care, including early or friendship support. Our Well-Being Champions are part of Wandsworth’s Mental Health in Schools
Project where they meet children in similar roles in other schools to share ideas and develop solutions to
help at the Bethany Centre.’ supporting fellow pupils.
Ofsted 2018
We have a separate email account iwanttotalk@saintcecilias.london and post boxes dotted around the
school where children can privately contact us regarding any worries or concerns.
Chaplaincy and Spiritual Support
We have a full-time Chaplain and a chaplaincy programme including assemblies, collective worship at the
end of every day and throughout the year we have parents’ and staff prayer meetings in school. We have
an attractive Chapel for the use of pupils and staff, both for voluntary services and private prayer and
reflection. Mentor meetings also include a time of Christian reflection, meditation and prayer.
Our Communion in the Community events celebrate key dates of the Christian calendar. The whole school
visit local churches to learn more about them and to experience a Communion Service. Throughout
the year, pupils take part in retreats to promote team spirit and encourage conversation about their
differences. The retreats for Key Stage 3 pupils are designed to enable pupils to appreciate not only their
individual value, but also the effect of their interaction with their peers and others, inside and outside of
the school.
The Bethany Centre
Our Bethany Centre accommodates all aspects of support and inclusion, ensuring we meet the needs
of all pupils, including those with Special Education Needs, those who speak English as an additional
language and those with personal struggles such as bereavement. The Bethany Centre also holds regular
coffee mornings and drop-ins for parents or carers.
Sessions are run by Learning Support Assistants, external professionals, the SENCO and teaching staff
to support all pupils in the Bethany Centre. We liaise with many outside agencies and seek support and
advice where necessary. Our new school dog, Ken, will work in the Bethany Centre to provide support to
pupils and students on a regular basis.
15Saint Cecilia’s Church of England School - Prospectus for Year 7 Entry 2021
Opportunities to Flourish
Our aim is to give children an abundance of opportunity to help them flourish and to reach their full potential.
Not only is this delivered through our curriculum and extra-curricular programme, but through the many
opportunities pupils and students have to take on roles of responsibility across the school. This begins in Year 7
and continues through to Year 13.
Prefects, School Council, Year Council
The role of Prefect is a highly important one and is a position of considerable responsibility. Our team of
Prefects, selected from all Year Groups, act as role models for their fellow pupils and students. Whilst fulfilling
the Prefect role, young people develop leadership skills whilst also having significant influence on the daily life
of the school. They represent the school at important events throughout the year including front-of-house
duties at events such as Parents’ Evenings, Open Mornings and Music events. Day to day, they carry out regular
duties at break times and assist in the smooth running of the school outside of lesson times. In recognition of
their status at the school, they wear a burgundy tie so they are instantly recognisable to pupils and staff. Saint
Cecilia’s is committed to listening to pupils and students and we have various initiatives for pupils and students
to air their ideas and concerns. We have a School Council with two representatives from each Year Group who
meet twice each term with members of the school’s Senior Leadership Team. Our School Council gives pupils
and students a voice on important school decisions and gives our young people ownership over aspect of school
life. In the past, for example, ideas to improve our Refectory, recycling and our Safety-Ownership-Awareness-
Resilience campaign have come directly from pupils via the School Council. Additionally, each Year Group has
a Year Council to discuss issues pertinent only to that school year. All pupils can nominate themselves to be a
candidate for their Year or the School Council.
House Captains, Sports Captains, Charity Captains,
Eco Captains
Our five Houses – Schubert, Archimedes, Ives, Newton, Turing – each have a number of positions for our pupils
to gain experience of leading pan-school projects or working with senior staff on House initiatives. Our House
Captains help House Leaders with Inter-House competitions. They are usually drawn from Key Stage 4 and 5
students and help supervise, lead and manage House initiatives. Our Sports Captains assist with House-related
sports events such as our annual Sports Day. Our Charity Captains coordinate fundraising for the School’s
nominated charity which changes each year. Finally, our Eco Captains devise initiatives with their House Leader
to improve the school’s green credentials. Applications for all these positions open at the start of the school year
and are open to all pupils.
16Saint Cecilia’s Church of England School - Prospectus for Year 7 Entry 2021
Admissions and Appeals
Saint Cecilia’s Church of England School has a distinctive Christian ethos at its heart and provides an
inclusive, caring and supportive environment where children learn and flourish in a setting shaped by
Christian values. We welcome applications from all members of the community and ask all parents/
carers and applicants to respect the Christian ethos of our school and recognise its importance to our
community. Saint Cecilia’s Church of England School admits 150 pupils into Year 7 each year.
Foundation places
We offer 80 places to children who themselves or whose parents/carers are practising members of a
Christian church (see Note a) in the following order of priority:
1 Children in public care (looked-after children) and those who ceased to be looked-after children
because they were adopted, or because they became subject to a residence order, child
arrangements order or a special guardianship order (see Note c).
2 Those who attend Anglican churches.
3 Those who attend other Christian churches.
Within each of the above criteria, priority will be given in the following order to:
i. children who have a sibling on the roll of the school at the time of application (see Note f).
ii. children of staff (see Note h).
iii. children living nearest to the school, using a straight line measurement (see Note i).
Open places
We offer 70 places to children irrespective of their religious background. Priority will be given in the
following order to:
1 Children in public care (looked-after children) and those who ceased to be looked-after children
because they were adopted, or because they became subject to a residence order, child
arrangements order or a special guardianship order (see Note c).
2 Children who have a sibling on the roll of the school at the time of application, providing the sibling
accepted an Open Place (see Note f).
3 Children of staff (see Note h).
4 Children living nearest to the school using a straight-line measurement (see Note i).
17Saint Cecilia’s Church of England School - Prospectus for Year 7 Entry 2021
Specialist Music Places (Music Scholars)
Eight Foundation and seven Open places will be offered to children who demonstrate that they have the
aptitude to benefit from a specialist course in Music. Places will be allocated on the basis of an aptitude
test carried out in the Autumn term to include performance either as a vocalist or instrumentalist and a
test of aural perception and awareness. Applicants will be placed in rank order according to their total
score in the aptitude test.
Applicants will need to complete an additional information form if they wish to be considered for a
specialist place. This form is available on our website and paper copies are available from the school
office or from Wandsworth Borough Council. Those not offered a specialist place will automatically be
considered for a place under the general admissions criteria.
Where the number of Foundation music place applicants who meet the aptitude criteria for a specialist
music place is less than eight, any unfilled specialist music places will be offered to Open place applicants
who meet the aptitude criteria (in rank order according to their total score in the aptitude test as above).
18Saint Cecilia’s Church of England School - Prospectus for Year 7 Entry 2021
Notes:
a Attendance at a Christian church which is either a full member of ‘Churches h The member of staff must have been employed by the school for two or more
Together in England’, The Evangelical Alliance, The Federation of Independent years at the time at which the application for admission to the school is made,
Evangelical Churches, The Association of Grace Baptist Churches, or, Affinity at or be a member of staff who was recruited to fill a vacant post where there is a
least twice a month for two years immediately prior to application is required to be demonstrable skill shortage.
eligible to apply for a Foundation place. Governors do not give priority to families
i Distance will be measured from home to school using a straight line
where both parents worship.
measurement. This commences at the location of the property and terminates
b A reference will be sought from the minister or church leader at the place of at the central point of the school site as determined by Wandsworth Council’s
worship for applicants for Foundation places. Geographical Information System. Measurements by alternative systems and/
or to other points will not be taken into account in any circumstances.
c Looked after children are children who are in the care of a Local Authority, or being
provided with accommodation by a Local Authority in the exercise of their social
services functions as defined by Section 22(1) of the Children Act 1989 at the time
of making an application to the school. Previously looked after children are children
who were looked after immediately prior to being adopted, or who became subject
to a residence order (now termed child arrangement order under the Children &
Families Act 2014) or special guardianship order. The Governors will require written
confirmation that the child is looked after, or previously looked after, and will be so
at the time of making an application to the school.
d Any unfilled Foundation places will become additional Open places.
e All unsuccessful applicants for Foundation places will be considered for Open
places. However, where the applicant does not meet the criteria for eligibility for
a Foundation place but has a sibling in the school on the date of application who
accepted a Foundation place, the sibling link will be disregarded.
f A sibling is defined as a full brother or sister, a step/half/adopted brother or sister
living at the same address, a child who is living at the same address as part of the
family by reason of a court order, or a child who has been placed with foster carers
as a result of being looked after by a Local Authority.
g The school is organised under one roof with a lift providing access to the upper
floors. All classrooms may be accessed without steps and there is a ramp at the
entrance to the playground. The school has six toilets designed for use by pupils
with disabilities, including one with shower facilities. The school will take all
reasonable steps to ensure that pupils with disabilities have the same opportunities
as other pupils.
19Saint Cecilia’s Church of England School - Prospectus for Year 7 Entry 2021
Tie-breaker Application Procedure and Timetable
In the event that two or more applicants have Saint Cecilia’s Church of England School participates in the coordinated admission scheme of
equal right to a place under any of the above Wandsworth Borough Council, applicants must complete their home Local Authority Common
criteria and there are insufficient places, the Application Form; applicants who wish to be considered for Foundation and Specialist Music places or a
Governing Body will use distances in the first Staff place, must also complete the supplementary information form(s). The School also adheres to the
instance, to decide between applicants. common timetable for admissions, including the arrangements for dealing with applications received
after the closing date as set out in Wandsworth Borough Council’s scheme. The Governing Body is
Where applicants have identical distance
responsible for in-year admissions to this School. However, parents/carers wishing to apply in-year
measurements, priority amongst them will be
should complete Wandsworth Borough Council’s in-year application form and return it to the Council,
determined by the drawing of lots supervised by
which will then refer the application to the School. Having considered the application, the Governing
someone independent of the school.
Body will inform the applicant whether or not a place can be offered and advise the Council of the
outcome.
Continuing Interest List
Parents/carers who are not offered a place may request to be put on the Continuing Interest List. If an
application is received and a child is added to the waiting list, the list will be re-ranked in accordance with
the oversubscription criteria. The Continuing Interest List will be held until 31st August 2022, after which
applicants will need to reapply.
Appeal Arrangements
Applicants refused a place at the School will have the right to appeal against the decision to an
independent admission appeal panel established under the School Standards and Framework Act 1998.
Appeals must be received within 20 school days of receipt of the letter refusing a place at the School.
Should an appeal be unsuccessful, the Governing Body will not consider further appeals from those
applicants within the same academic year unless there have been significant and material changes in their
circumstances. If you wish to appeal, please download an Appeal Form from the Admissions section on
the School’s website. If you wish to appeal, please download an Appeal Form from the Admissions section
on the school’s website.after the closing date as set out in Wandsworth Borough Council’s scheme. The
Governing Body is responsible for in-year admissions to this school.
However, parents/carers wishing to apply in-year should complete Wandsworth Borough Council’s
in-year application form and return it to the Council, which will then refer the application to the school.
Having considered the application, the Governing Body will inform the applicant whether or not a place
can be offered and advise the Council of the outcome.
20Saint Cecilia’s Church of England School - Prospectus for Year 7 Entry 2021
Fair Access
The School is committed to taking its fair share of pupils who are hard to place in accordance with the
locally agreed fair access protocol. Pupils admitted under the protocol will take priority over any children
on the waiting list and this may include, on occasion, admitting above the published admission number.
Special Educational Needs
Parents/carers of pupils who have a statement of special educational needs, or an Education, Health and
Care (EHC) Plan, are required to apply for school places separately through the Local Authority from
whom advice is available. If a child with a statement, or EHC Plan, is placed in the School by the Local
Authority before the normal admission round, the number of places available to other applicants will be
reduced.
The Governing Body will admit all those pupils whose statement, or EHC Plan, names the School, and
whose need can be met at Saint Cecilia’s.
Admission of children outside their normal age group
Children are educated in school with others of their age group. However, in exceptional circumstances
parents/carers may choose to seek places outside of their child’s chronological Year Group. Decisions will
be made on the basis of the circumstances of each case.
Parents/carers must state in writing clearly why they feel admission to a different Year Group is in the
child’s best interest and may provide recent professional evidence to support this.
21Saint Cecilia’s Church of England School - Prospectus for Year 7 Entry 2021 Frequently Asked Questions How do I apply to Saint Cecilia’s? Please fill in the council’s ‘Common Application Form’ on your Local Authority’s website. If you wish to apply for a Foundation and/or Music place, please fill in a specialist form, which are available on our website. What is a Foundation place? Our Foundation places are the name given to our faith–based places. Applicants for these places must have been attending a church for two years or more, at least twice per month at the time of application. Applicants for a Foundation place should fill in the supplementary form available on our website and return it to the school. We will then contact your minister for a reference. What is the deadline for application? The deadline for applying for all places using the council’s form is 31st October 2020. If you wish to apply for a Foundation and/or Music place, you need to submit an additional form direct to the school. The deadline for the Music place form is Monday 12th October and the deadline for receipt of the Foundation place form is 31st October. Where can I get the Specialist Information Forms (Foundation place and Music place forms) from? Please download the forms from the Admissions section of our website. What is your catchment area? We do not have a defined catchment area. We admit children on the basis of the distance that they live from the school, with those who live nearest first. Does my child need to sit the Wandsworth test? No, we do not use the Wandsworth test score to filter the children. Will I be able to visit the school? Unfortunately, due to the current restrictions we are unable to have visitors at the school at this time. When will the aptitude test be for specialist music places? The preliminary aptitude test will be on Thursday 15th October. For those who pass the preliminary test, or those of grade two or above, there will be a final aptitude test in Thursday 22nd October. We hope that these will be held in school but may have to be remote if restrictions apply. What is involved in the aptitude test? Applicants should be ready to play or sing a short piece, which is no longer than three minutes in length. They will also be asked to sing as part of a round with the teacher, clap back a rhythm and sing back a short series of notes. 22
Saint Cecilia’s Church of England School - Prospectus for Year 7 Entry 2021
Step by step how to apply
Step 1:
Applicants must complete their home Local Authority’s Common Application Form, available online at
www.eadmissions.org.uk/eAdmissions/app
Step 2:
Applicants who wish to be considered for Foundation (church) and/or Specialist Music places, must
also complete the supplementary information form(s). These forms are included within the ‘Choose a
Wandsworth School booklet’, which are available from your child’s primary school or via the Wandsworth
Council website. The forms are also available on our website or from our reception. These forms must be
returned to the School.
Step 3:
If you are applying for a Foundation place, we will write to your minister or priest for a reference to
confirm that you meet the criteria. Please note that church attendance of twice a month for at least two
years immediately prior to application is required to meet the Foundation criteria. Open places will be
offered to children living nearest to the school using a straight-line measurement.
Step 4:
Applicants who have applied for a Specialist Music place will be invited to take a specialist music aptitude
test at the school in the October.
All applications have to be submitted online by 31st October 2020.
Step 5:
Outcome letters are sent to all applicants by Wandsworth Council in March 2021.
23Sutherland Grove, Southfields, London SW18 5JR
www.stceciliaslondon.com
Telephone: 020 8780 1244
Email: info@saintcecilias.londonYou can also read
