Saint Ambrose College

Prospectus 2015

Welcome

Welcome to Saint Ambrose College.

Saint Ambrose College is a Catholic State Funded Independent Grammar School with a selective intake, boys entering via a competitive entrance examination. The school has academy status. As a state funded school, there are no fees.

Saint Ambrose College is under the trusteeship of the Congregation of Christian Brothers and was rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted and also by the Catholic Diocese of Shrewsbury following their most recent inspections.

The College was founded by the de la Salle Brothers after evacuating Guernsey, and was taken over by the Irish Christian Brothers and established in 1946. It still retains as its core ethos, the charism of their founder, Blessed Edmund Ignatius Rice.

The College is rich in extra-curricular activities with something for everyone. The main games are rugby, cricket, athletics and cross-country, but there are many others with new sporting activities and clubs introduced each year. Our 25 metre swimming pool allows all boys to be involved within the College swimming programme.

Boys are actively involved in the liturgical life of the College; our Chaplaincy Team develops the Catholic Spirituality through liturgical celebration. All boys have the opportunity to take part in retreats during their College career.

There are approximately 950 boys on the College roll, including 200 in the Sixth Form. We are proud to say that most proceed to University, a number to Oxbridge and Cambridge.

We have an annual Speech Day in the Bridgewater Hall, Manchester, where we celebrate the achievements of our boys. Saint Ambrose College is an Edmund Rice School, although now with a lay Head Master and teaching staff. All that is best in the Edmund Rice tradition is preserved. Saint Ambrose is, therefore, first and foremost, a Catholic College and a Catholic ethos must exist in our daily life.

Examination results place us amongst the highest achieving schools in the country. In particular ALPS place us in the top 1% of the country for A-level results.

I hope you enjoy your visit today.Please visit our website for further information: www.st-ambrosecollege.org.uk

Yours sincerely

M D ThompsonHead Master

Lord teach me to seek theeAnd reveal thyself to meWhen I seek thee

For I cannot seek theeUnless thou teach me,Not find thee exceptthou reveal thyself

Let me seek thee in longing,Let me long for thee in seeking;Let me find thee in love,and love thee in finding.

Prayer of Saint Ambrose

Painting of ‘Saint Ambrose as a young man’ by Sandro Kopp

Edmund Rice EducationEvangelisation of the modern WorldSaint Ambrose College contributes to the overall mission of the Catholic Church by bringing the Good News of Jesus Christ to every aspect of its life as an educative community. In doing so it fulfils the specific mission entrusted to the Edmund Rice School:

“The Evangelisation of youth through the Apostolate of Christian Education”

Awareness of the SpiritualSaint Ambrose College fosters an awareness that the fulfilment of human existence lies beyond this world. It points from the visible to the invisible rejecting a vision of the human person which is purely material and temporal.

Building of a Christian CommunityAs with every community centered on the person of Jesus Christ, the quality of relationships is of particular importance. The Christian love the community seeks to enshrine is characterised by mutual respect, self-sacrifice and good humour.

Compassion for the weakParticular love and concern is expressed towards the weakest members of the College community. This compassion is also expressed in practical action on behalf of the poor and marginalised both locally and internationally.

Concern for the Whole PersonThe central purpose of Saint Ambrose College as an Edmund Rice school, is the wholesome religious, moral, intellectual, cultural, physical and social education of its students. Concern for the whole human person also extends to the adult members of the College community.

Striving for ExcellenceEdmund Rice Schools encourage each person to use their talents to the full whether academic, cultural or physical.

Teaching as a Christian VocationThe role of the Christian teacher is highly esteemed and the educative task is seen as more than just a job. It is recognised as a calling from God expressing His kind purposes for the future of humanity.

Education for JusticeEdmund Rice education is more than an end in itself. It is a process of transformation with the expressed aim of making society more just and thus contributing to the building of the Kingdom of God on earth.

In this College we strive to make real in our lives and in the World the values of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

We Will...

Provide a well-ordered caring environment where self-discipline is emphasised and pupils are enabled to take responsibility for their own actions following a reasoned set of Christian values and principles.

Demand of the pupils the highest possible standards whilst supporting them with a system of pastoral care, which promotes respect for all of the community. We therefore value highly good manners, courtesy and fairness.

Offer support and guidance for all pupils as they take advantage of the wide opportunities offered to them within the College, enabling them to make full use of their talents and so contribute to the good of the whole College.

Seek to develop the college as a vibrant Christian community where pupils will learn to integrate their Catholic faith and culture “seeking first the kingdom of God” and enabling them to be “ambassadors of Christ”.

We aim to do this together in a spirit of hope and happiness following the example of Blessed Edmund Rice and under the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the patronage of Our Lady, Help of all Christians.

Spiritual Life

Activities underline the Catholic spirit of the College.

All boys have the opportunity to spend time for reflection away from the College.

All First Year boys enjoy a retreat during their first few weeks.

Further retreats are also arranged as pupils progress through school and older boys are able to assist regularly at Cornerstone, to help disadvantaged and vulnerable homeless people.

In addition, in recent years, the College has formed strong links with Revive, a refuge for asylum seekers which is based in Salford.

The College Chapel is a place of sanctity and of quiet, for developing our faith in God, where the prayer group meet weekly to discuss issues of faith and to put that faith into practice and action in terms of the Holy Mass and Catholic Social Teaching.

Holy Mass is regularly celebrated in the College atrium, Chapel and local Church, Holy Angels.

Sierra Leone The College is twinned with Saint Ambrose Academy in Sierra Leone. Through charitable works, the College is able to provide material and prayerful support to the Christian Brothers in Sierra Leone to help with the re-equipping of their schools. Saint Ambrose Academy caters for the educational and social welfare of all students from the very poorest of backgrounds. Saint Ambrose College students and staff regularly visit Saint Ambrose Academy and this ‘Immersion’ experience has the potential not just to form but to transform the lives of staff and students in both schools.

Last year, the whole College took part in a sponsored walk and raised £10,000 in aid of our twin school. This year we hope to repeat this success which will make a real difference to the disadvantaged.

“And I say to thee, thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my Church.”

Matthew 16:18

Former Ambrosian Henry Hall working in Sierra Leone as part of a staff and student Immersion visit

LiturgyThanks to the services of local priests, boys are able to attend Mass in College and have the opportunity to attend a reconciliation service during Lent.

The College Prayer GroupThis is a thriving College society which meets weekly to allow boys to develop their spirituality.

Lenten AppealAt Lenten time especially, but also throughout the year, we have raised money for charities, including: the Christian Brothers in Sierra Leone, CAFOD, Life, SPUC, the Catholic Children’s Society, Jospice, Chernobyl Children’s Society, St. Joseph’s Family Centre, Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal, Cornerstone, Society of African Missions, NSPCC, Francis House and Traidcraft.

Lourdes PilgrimageThe Lourdes Pilgrimage from Saint Ambrose joins with the Diocese to help with the handicapped and sick, again giving a profoundly deep and lasting experience to those who take part; a privilege for all those involved. This is an event organised each year with the assistance of our Old Boys who are joined by staff and members of the Sixth Form.

The Chapel is a place of sanctity and of quiet, for developing our faith in God.

Behaviour & DisciplineAdmissions Policy 2016The numbers of intended admissions at First Year (Year 7) is 140 boys, subject to their passing the College’s entrance examination, which will consist of a standardised verbal reasoning test; an English exam; a Mathematics exam.

If the number of applicants achieving the required standard for entry exceeds the Published Admissions Number, then the following over-subscription criteria will apply in the following order to decide which pupils to admit.

Oversubscription Criteria

1. Baptised Roman Catholic boys who are designated ‘looked after children’ 2. Baptised Roman Catholic boys who have a brother attending the school

3. Boys who have a parent who is permanently employed by the Governors of St Ambrose College

4. Baptised Roman Catholic boys who are attending a Roman Catholic primary school at time of application

5. Baptised Roman Catholic boys

6. Other Boys who are designated ‘looked after children’

7. Baptised Christian boys who have a brother attending the school

8. Other Baptised Christian boys whose application is supported by a letter from a minister of Christian religion

9. Other boys whose application is supported by a minister of Christian religion

10. Other boys

In the event of over-subscription within any one of the categories for First Year, priority will be given to those boys who achieved the highest marks in the entrance examination.

The College requires a system in place which relates to and supports the overall objectives of the College and its Mission Statement: to provide a well ordered, caring environment where high standards and good manners are expected, and will be supported by the Christian values and principles which underline our Catholic Education Approach.

Boys will be rewarded with house points in a variety of ways: badges and/or ties will be awarded for sporting, musical or dramatic activities. A private word of encouragement and congratulation from a teacher is often given and welcomed by the pupils. There are many and various ways in which praise can be given and this will be done with due respect to the age of the pupils concerned.

The College is very proud of all of its pupils but in the event of a boy failing to live up to the standards of acceptable behaviour, the College will liaise with the pupil and their parents in order to restore good order and check poor behaviour.

A variety of steps may be taken to admonish poor behaviour: a word from a teacher; a task to do - written work or some other job appropriate to the offence; a boy may be detained for part of his break time, or, for more serious offences the College will communicate with parents and reserve the right to detained the pupil after College in the form of detention. In rare instances for very serious offences a temporary or permanent exclusion from College may be necessary.

The College employs a Behviour Support Manager who will intervene to monitor and assist pupils when their behaviour falls short of the expected high standards.

The College requires and welcomes the support of parents in providing a suitable environment for all pupils in the College.

SummaryWe expect all pupils at the College to have genuine respect for themselves, for others and for the good of the whole College community. In this regard our approach upholds a Christocentric approach encapsulating the Gospel message of love of God and love of neighbour.

Special Needs

An academic grammar school with high standards of education for all of its pupils.

For those boys who struggle with some of the educational demands made on them, we seek to help them through a programme of support tailored to their specific needs. This is the shared responsibility of the boys’ Subject Teacher, House Tutor and House Leader. We also have a designated Learning Support Manager, who looks after special needs.

Parental involvementThe College will seek to keep the parents of the pupil fully informed of all measures taken and progress made.

In keeping with the teaching of the Catholic Church, the College seeks to act “in loco parentis” while in College, but never usurping the primary right and duty of parents to educate their own children as they see fit.

What are special educational needs?A child has special educational needs if he has a learning difficulty which calls for special educational provision to be made for him.

A child has learning difficulty if he has significantly greater difficulty in learning than the majority of children of the same age.

If he has a disability which either prevents or hinders the child from making use of educational facilities of a kind provided for children of the same age in schools within the area of the local authority.

A child must not be regarded as having a learning difficulty solely because the language or form of language of the home is different from the language in which he is being taught or will be taught.

Special educational needs may be evident in the child’s behavioural, physical, speech and language, sensory or learning difficulties.

The responsibility for formal assessment of a child, who, it is thought, may have special educational needs, is that of the local education authority.

Academic Support & Pastoral CareWe value each pupil for the talents and gifts they each have.

In terms of academic results, we expect each boy to perform to the best of his ability.

Our dedicated teaching staff offer every possible support and advice to achieve this aim. We expect the boys to take advantage of the many opportunities offered and to involve themselves in activities outside the classroom whether this be on the sporting field, in terms of music, drama, clubs or any of the many other extra-curricular activities on offer.

All pupils will take a minimum of nine GCSE examinations at the end of Year 5

In Years 1 and 2 students are continually assessed. From Year 3 in Mathematics, the boys are taught in sets. This allows the work to be covered at a pace appropriate to the ability of each boy. If a pupil is deemed to be finding difficulties within a particular subject, steps will be taken to give the extra help that is needed.

The Learning Support Manager will work individually with pupils experiencing particular problems to help them to overcome their difficulties. Whilst we believe all boys are “Gifted and Talented”, we do offer support, advice and more challenging work to the “high achievers and more able” pupils within the College.

In order to encourage the best performance from each pupil, we provide homework diaries that are monitored by both parents and the House Tutor.

A regular appraisal system operates throughout the College so that parents receive regular reports on the performance of their son.

Each House has a House Leader who will monitor the development of the boys together with the House Tutor. This provides the boys with support and encouragement in both their academic and non-academic pursuits.

The House Tutor is the person who has the most day-to-day contact with the pupils and will be aware of their circumstances. Should there be any problems then it is the House Tutor who should be informed initially. Normally, most matters are dealt with at this level. Should it be necessary then the House Leader will be directly involved, particularly if there is a need to inform the parents.

In a supportive and caring environment, boys within a House Group are alert to the needs of others and often advise the House Tutor if a problem is suspected.

The House System

Enriching the individual within the context of a global Christian CommunityWhilst boys are placed in curriculum groups for their lessons, at the beginning of the day, they are attached to a House Group during house period. This time allows the boys to mix with a different group of boys and be supported by their peers for half an hour a day thus giving them the opportunity to extend their friendship group to boys from other year groups.

All boys have a House Tutor who is the first point of contact for both pupils and parents within the College. The boys stay in the same House throughout their time at the College so that their House Leader remains constant. Upon entry, your son will receive a House Badge which is expected to be worn on his blazer. Boys can earn House Points for academic excellence and any activity which can be defined as service. Receipt of such House Points may result in eligibility to attend an annual reward trip, such as Alton Towers and are counted towards House Competitions.

The House System Encourages:

‘A positive competitive ethos based upon engagement and action which extends and enriches the individual within the context of a global Christian community.’

Saint Ambrose CollegeBlessed Edmund Rice

Aquinas House(Blue)

House LeaderMr Rush

Augustine House(Green)

House LeaderMr Aspinwall

Ignatius House(Red)

House LeaderMr Cutting

Newman House(Yellow)

House LeaderMr Krause

The School Day: Boys to be attendance by 8.55am

House Period 09:00 - 09:30

Period 1 09:30 - 10:30

Period 2 10:30 - 11:25

Break 11:25 - 11:40

Period 3 11:40 - 12:40

Lunch 12:40 - 13:40

Period 4 13:40 - 14:40

Period 5 14:40 - 15:35

College Uniform

The College uniform for pupils is the following:

College House Badge (provided by the College with replacements available for purchase)Black shoes – not boots, sports trainers, velcro fasteners or suede shoesSocks - charcoal grey/blackTrousers - charcoal grey/blackWhite shirt (long or short sleeve)Saint Ambrose tiePullover with College design (optional)Sixth Form may wear a black v-necked uniform pullover and a distinct Sixth Form tieBlazer - College design with BadgeRucksack - plain, dark in colour without pattern (optional College rucksack available from Monkhouse)Outdoor coats (optional) plain, dark in colour without pattern

PE/Sportswear/swimwear:

PE Sweatshirt Navy/White with College crest (optional)PE T-Shirt Navy/White with College crestPE Shorts Navy/White with College crestRugby Shorts Royal with College crestRugby Jersey Royal Scarlet hoops/house colour with College crestGames Socks Royal/ScarletPolo Shirt - white/Red/Royal with College crest (summer term only)Baselayer (optional) Swim Cap Royal with College crest (compulsory)Swim Jammers Navy with house trim

(Please see Monkhouse website for updated information)

All items of uniform can be purchased from Monkhouse in store or on-line www.monkhouse.comName tapes can also be purchased and are advisable.

Systems UsedParentMail is used to send all College correspondence and for dealing with trip payments and cashless catering.The College also uses a Swipe card system for access, registration, printing and cashless catering.

College WebsiteThe College website allows parents to regularly check for news and useful information.www.st-ambrosecollege.org.uk

Building FeaturesIn September 2012, the College opened its new £24 million building. The new College is designed around the shape of a Celtic cross; the cross features on the badge of all Edmund Rice Schools.

As boys enter the College they are presented with the central atrium and ‘Spanish steps’ which provide a social gathering area. The central atrium space is designed as a multi functional space for assembly, theatre style performances, religious services and a dining/social area.

Also located in the central space, the Chapel which acts as the focal point to the whole College has an axial relationship to Holy Angels Church to the South East.

The main building is made up of four wings over three storeys, which house the main teaching spaces. These teaching spaces are centralised around the central atrium space with the sports facilities located to the south of the main building. In order to maximise external space on the site the sports hall has been located over the swimming pool and is connected to the College building. These areas combine to provide a clear representation of the Celtic Cross. Outdoor eating areas are equipped with furniture created from the trees felled during construction.

Ground floorThis level provides both pupil and visitor entrances to the College, the College office and the major proportion of specialist areas e.g. design and technology, languages, dining and lecture theatre as well as a direct link to the swimming pool both from the central area and via a separate sports entrance.

First floorThe first floor level accommodates the balance of specialist areas including science together with music and art. The first floor also accommodates a sport cardio room and the sports hall.

Second floorThe second floor houses the library pods, Sixth Form common room and outdoor balcony along-side study areas and ICT classrooms. Every wing is provided with a dedicated ICT room and boys also have access to several ‘cyber cafes’ during their free time.

Pictured above left: Saint Ambrose College on-site Bus Terminal.

Internal and External Sports ProvisionSports facilities are contained in the southern wing and extend over two floors. The twenty five metre long, six lane swimming pool sits directly below the sport hall and provides views across the rugby pitches and cricket square. The air conditioned sports hall houses a full size basketball court, cricket nets and four badminton courts. Alongside this is a fitness suite equipped with Concept 2 rowing machines, weights and fitness stations.

The senior rugby pitch and cricket square maintain the views from Hale Road. These facilities have been supplemented by two further rugby fields to the south of the building, where spectators can view matches from the grassed terrace areas or the viewing balcony.

The outdoor areas provide additional areas for pupil development with the wetland areas and allotments; there is also a ‘trim trail’ and exercise area along with traversing walls.

Lunch Time Clubs & SocietiesThe following list is by no means exhaustive, as every year new staff and pupils bring new talents and interests to the College:

Monday Chess Club Drama Club Debating Society Chamber Choir Warhammer Cookery Club

Tuesday Orchestra Geography Club Music Tech Club Justice Group Creative Writing Maths Clinic Cookery Club

Wednesday School of Rock Politics Society Maths Clinic Drama Club Languages Society Forensics Society Cookery Club Thursday History Society Film Club Biology Society Friday Chess Club Film Club Italian Society Design & Technology Club Weight training takes place daily under the supervision of our Sports Manager.

English & DramaCurrently, English and Drama are taught as discrete subjects from Year 2 onwards, with Drama offered as an option choice for boys at the end of that year. A number of boys choose to take Drama for GCSE in Years 3, 4 and 5. All boys study both English Language and Literature at GCSE and a large number of the year group select English Language & Literature at A level.

Lower SchoolThe curriculum in English in Years 1-2 involves the study of a wide range of stimulating literary and non-fiction texts. Within this, we focus on developing critical skills in terms of reading, writing and speaking and listening in preparation for GCSE. In Drama, the second year students develop their performance skills through the exploration of published play extracts and devising work themselves from a range of stimuli. In both English and Drama, we seek to nurture creativity and imagination and to encourage boys to be clear and precise in their use of language in a variety of different contexts.

GCSEFrom September 2015, we will be studying AQA English Language and English Literature at GCSE. The boys will study a number of different prose and drama texts, including Lord of the Flies, Great Expectations and Macbeth, and a wide range of poetry. They will also further develop their ability to write clearly and fluently in a range of different styles. They are assessed through external examination at the end of the course. Students studying AQA Drama continue to enhance their performance skills. Alongside the performance work, students continue to develop their written and analytical skills in preparation for their final external exam.

Advanced LevelFrom September 2015, we will be studying the combined English Language & Literature two year course offered by AQA, which gives students the opportunity to engage creatively and independently with a variety of spoken, written and multi-modal texts and to develop their skills of critical analysis. Assessment is through external examination and an independent study, which allows students to pursue their own areas of interest.

Extra Curricular ActivitiesThe Debating Society meets regularly and many of our boys perform in external competitions. The Drama Society is also very well attended and major annual productions have included ‘Little Shop of Horrors’, ‘The Tempest’, ‘Wonderland’ and, most recently, ‘Oliver’. Many theatre trips to the Royal Exchange, The Lowry and the RSC are arranged during the year. In addition, we have a flourishing Creative Writing Society and members of the Journalism Club participate in the annual BBC Schools News Day. Keen readers can get involved in Book Club, which meets once a week, and is active in promoting reading widely throughout the lower school through a host of different activities, or Literature Society, whose members meet regularly to discuss their reading of a range of iconic literary texts past and present.

Angledecimal

ICTformulae GeometryComputer

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AlgebraD

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Mathematics

Computer Science Pupils explore the digital world. Boys learn about everyday computer systems and are introduced to computer programming that enables the modern world to function.

Lower SchoolThe increasing use of technology in all aspects of society makes confident, creative and productive use of computing an essential skill for life. In years 1 and 2, using the latest software and technologies, pupils will be taught how to write computer programs to solve real world problems; enabling them to develop key skills such as computational thinking and writing algorithms. In addition, as part of our computing culture, pupils are taught how to be safe and secure when using computing systems. GCSEAt GCSE pupils follow the AQA specification for Computer Science; giving learners the opportunity to investigate and gain an in-depth understanding into how computers work, and how they are used. Pupils will begin to specialise in a particular programming language and utilise this skill in various scenarios, such as creating computer games and developing mobile phone applications.

Advanced levelPupils follow the AQA Computer Science Specification. At AS level the subject is divided into practical and theory modules. At A2 level pupils study further fundamental theory topics relating to computer science. Pupils also work on a programming project of their choice.

DestinationsComputer Science is a good base to lead into software development and engineering, as well as various careers in the communications and video games industries.

Former Ambrosian Tom Waszkowycz now studies at King’s College, Cambridge, reading Computer Science.

Computer Science

Mathematics‘Mathematics, rightly viewed, possesses not only truth, but beauty.’ Bertrand Russell

Mathematics is central to our understanding of the world in which we live; it underpins science, technology, medicine, economics and government. The mathematics classroom will provide students with the opportunity to see beyond the horizons set by the problems at hand.

Our aim is for all students to enjoy mathematics and to achieve their potential. We use a variety of teaching styles to cater for their learning needs and are always available to support all students both in and out of the classroom.

Lower SchoolIn the lower school students study the building blocks required for mathematics in the key areas of number, algebra, geometry and statistics. An emphasis is also placed on problem solving and functional mathematics, to help students develop important skills that will be needed at GCSE and A Level. GCSEAt GCSE, students study the AQA Linear specification, taking their GCSE examinations at the end of the course. The vast majority of our students take the higher examination, targeting grades A* and A. In addition, our more able students also sit the AQA Level 2 Certificate in Further Mathematics.

Advanced LevelMathematics A Level is a very popular subject in the sixth form and compliments numerous other subjects. Mathematics is demanding but also very enjoyable and rewarding. Our students take the OCR A Level. A number of students who are considering pursuing a Mathematics, Engineering or Economics degree also study the OCR Further Mathematics A Level.

Extra-Curricular ActivitiesMathematics Clinic takes place once a week to support our A Level students. To help support our youngest students, a mentoring scheme has been introduced where Sixth Form mathematicians provide help to Key Stage 3 and 4 students. In addition, our strongest students take part each year in the National Maths Challenge which is run by the United Kingdom Mathematics Trust.

Pictured to the right, Children taking part in the ‘Junior Maths Challenge’ held annually at Saint Ambrose College.

Religious EducationParents who entrust the education of their sons to Saint Ambrose College have the right to expect a rigorous, challenging and authentic Religious Education.

Education of students in Catholic belief and practice is a core of the College’s curriculum. The term Theology, defined as “Faith seeking understanding” most accurately describes the work of the Faculty. Boys are encouraged to acquire a deeper knowledge and understanding of their faith, and to consider the impact of their faith in guiding their values and decisions.

Parents of boys of other traditions or faiths can be sure that the integrity of their son’s conscience will be respected. Boys are assessed on their knowledge and understanding of the Catholic faith, not on their beliefs or practice.

Lower SchoolBoys in Years 1 and 2 follow a scheme of work based upon “The Way, the Truth and the Life” syllabus published by the Catholic Truth Society. Boys study a different module each half-term, with an extended written assessment at the end of each topic. The life of Blessed Edmund Rice and his legacy are explored throughout the year to give an understanding of the College’s unique ethos and spirit, summarised in the Eight Essentials of an Edmund Rice education. In the Year 1 boys study a module on Sikhism, and enjoy a half-day visit to a local Gudwara. In Year 2 boys study the Jewish faith and enjoy a visit to the local Synagogue. All Year 1 boys also attend a retreat during their first half-term, as part of their induction and spiritual formation.

GCSEReligious Studies is a core subject taken by all boys at GCSE. Boys follow the Edexcel syllabus “Religious Studies: Catholic Christianity”. Our GCSE results are consistently outstanding, indicating the commitment and enthusiasm with which boys approach the subject.

Advanced LevelReligious Studies A Level is a popular option at Sixth Form. Students study the Philosophy of Religion and Religious Ethics.All students take part in a weekly General RE programme, examining the social teaching of the Church within the NOCN course for which they are certificated at the end of the Upper Sixth.

Technology at Saint Ambrose College prepares students to take part in the development of tomorrow’s rapidly changing world. Creative thinking encourages them to make positive changes to their quality of life. The subject encourages young people to become autonomous and creative problem-solvers, both as individuals and as part of a team.

Lower SchoolThe students undertake a foundation course in Design & Technology from a given design brief; pupils will work through the design process to make their specific designs. The pupils will use a variety of design and rendering techniques, as well as computer aided design and manufacture, utilising the CAD/CAM laser and vinyl cutter. The students will also have an introduction into electronics and the components that they will use within their circuits, using a variety of techniques and materials. Additionally students will be introduced to cooking, learning basic food hygiene and actual life skills that are required to cook three nutritious meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

GCSEAt GCSE level we offer Product Design. This specification has been designed to encourage pupils to be able to design and make products with creativity and originality.

Advanced LevelAt Advanced level we offer Graphic Products. In the AS unit students will have the opportunity to develop their creative, technical and practical skills through a series of product investigation, design and manufacturing activities. In the A2 Unit, students will design and make products using new technologies and smart materials to prepare them for the world of work.

Extra Curricular ActivitiesA weekly Technology club is available to students eager to acquire additional cooking skills, alongside the opportunity to join D&T society utilising CAD/CAM and CNC equipment. As the students progress to the older years, they are provided with the opportunity to join various trips such as Jaguar, Bentley, JCB and the Alternative Centre for Technology along with gettinginvolved in STEM competitions and The British Furniture Competition to win prizes and certificates.

DestinationsThis subject can lead and contribute to careers in Graphic Design, Product Design, Architecture, Graphic Communication, Engineering, and Teaching.

Design & Technology

Pupils study a variety of different styles of music from around the world. They will learn how to compose, perform and listen to gain an appreciation for all different genres of Music.

Lower SchoolAt KS3 pupils have regular music and choral lessons. Singing is an important part of the music curriculum and all pupils participate in religious ceremonies throughout the year.

GCSEAt KS4 GCSE pupils are expected to prepare both solo and ensemble performances. They study composition and create their own works which are then recorded. The final exam focuses on listening skills and can be based on music from either Classical, Popular or World music.

Advanced LevelA level builds on the foundations of GCSE. There are composition and performance aspects to the course as well as introducing analytical skills when studying the set works.

Instrumental TuitionInstrumental tuition is available on a ‘one-to-one’ basis from a team of specialist teachers. Instrumentalists are expected to join the appropriate extra curricular ensemble.

Extra Curricular ActivitiesThe extra curricular life of the school is thriving. Ensembles include the ‘Orchestra’, the ‘School of Rock’, the ‘Junior Choir’, the ‘Chamber Choir’ and the ‘Senior Ensemble’. The Church’s calendar provides a great focus for celebrations. The ensembles have a busy time from the start of each New Year rehearsing for the Feast of Saint Ambrose and the Carol Service.

Each year, pupils perform in the school musical. Last year’s production of ‘Oliver’ was a huge success, as was Little Shop of Horrors, Bugsy Malone and Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat the years before. It is an extremely rewarding experience for all involved.

Only the stage of the Bridgewater Hall is large enough to contain all musicians in one sitting, where a musical programme is performed at the College’s annual Speech Night prior to Easter.

The Music Department rewards its students with many trips and visits, having recently toured Rhineland and the Mosel Valley.

Music

ArtIn art, pupils explore a range of media and sub-jects with an aim to enhance and develop their visual vocabulary and practical skills. Boys also continually learn about art, craft and designers, using this knowledge to form ideas and stretch imagination.

Lower SchoolIn the Lower School pupils gain broad foundation in art using a range of two and three dimensional me-dia. Through a series of challenging projects and ex-ercises boys investigate drawing, portraiture, colour and composition in Year 1, whereas in Year 2, pupils explore linear and atmospheric perspective, collage, painting and sculpture.

Students are continually encouraged to become independent in their learning and practice. Using a sketchbook boys develop and research ideas both in class and for homework, which forms an important and compulsory part of the curriculum.

GCSEAt GCSE, pupils follow a Fine Art specification and develop work based around portraits & Cubism, the Fauves, still-life, loose landscape and subjects of their own choice.

Advanced LevelA level very much builds on the foundations of GCSE and pupils engage in work which not only challenges their understanding of the meaning and breadth of art but also allows many boys to create truly outstand-ing works of art.

Extra Curricular ActivitiesPupils regularly exhibit work in local and national art competitions and exhibitions. Annual competitions include the Living Edge Competition at the Lowry, Royal Academy summer on-line exhibition and the student exhibition organised by the Saatchi and Mall Galleries.

DestinationsMany old Ambrosians go on to pursue careers in art and design, and popular areas of study include architecture, fine art, animation and the study of the history of art. Past students have been accepted to many of the best art colleges including The Slade, Chelsea and The Courtauld Institute of Art.

Old Ambrosians: Keith Breeden is an established member of the Royal Society of Portrait Painters and Peter Saville is Graphic Designer for the Music Indus-

Creative Arts

History‘Study history, study history. In history lies all the secrets of statecraft.’ Winston Churchill

History at Saint Ambrose College aims to enable our students with the ability to select, collate and analyse information. Students gain an understanding of the causes and consequences of significant events and identify how societies have developed through the centuries.

Lower SchoolFirst Year Topics: How to be an Historian, Roman Expansion and Civilisation, The Arabic Empire, The Norman Conquests, the Middle Ages and the Reformation.

Second Year Topics: Elizabeth I, The Civil War, The Unification of Britain, Industrialisation, The Holocaust and a project on a significant Manchester individual.

These topics allow students to gain a broad understanding of British, European and World History.

GCSEAt GCSE students study how the world has changed in the twentieth century, covering the First, Second and Cold Wars, Lenin and Stalin, The Vietnam War, Civil Rights in America and the troubles in Ireland. Students also look in depth at America and Germany between the Wars.

Advanced LevelStudents develop their skills as a historian through studying British and European History. Key events include the Russian Revolution and the campaign for Home Rule in Ireland.

Extra Curricular ActivitiesThe Saint Ambrose College History Society was established in 2003. The Society is run by the Sixth Formers who establish a weekly programme of presentations. This year, History students visited Berlin and in previous years, students have explored Washington and New York, Moscow and St Petersburg.

DestinationsAs History is a widely respected discipline, A Level historians are accepted at the best universities including Oxford and Cambridge. A wide range of professions including Law, Journalism, Accountancy and the Police will recruit history students due to their ability to select, collate and analyse information. Daniel Power, a former student, was appointed Professor of Medieval History at Swansea University in 2007.

Geography is the study of the earth’s landscapes, peoples, places and environments. It is, quite simply, about the world in which we live.

Lower SchoolFollowing assessment, Year 1 pupils are given a thorough grounding in the different aspects of the subject. In Year 2 students study weather & climate, Africa and Development. In Year 3 the students complete an in-depth report on the River Dane, study types of energy and make a short film on an aspect of Global Warming.Each month the students are expected to complete a ‘Geography in the News’ assignment in which they report on some geographical event that has taken place that month. The work also includes opportunities for writing at length when solving geographical mysteries.

GCSEAt GCSE, pupils follow the AQA Specification A. In Year 3 they will study the first module for Paper 1 and in Year 4 and 5 they study 2 modules on Physical Geography and then 3 modules on Human Geography. There are two exam papers taken at the end of Year 5.

Advanced LevelThe A Level course follows the WJEC specification which covers aspects of physical and human geography, fieldwork skills and sustainability. The AS examination is made up of two sections: one studying rivers, volcanoes and climate change and the second section studying population and rural and urban change. The A2 examination is made up of another two sections: one covering the current issues of globalisation and coastal processes, the second paper consists of questions on a fieldwork topic.

Extra Curricular ActivitiesThe students are encouraged to attend the Geography Society where they can deliver presentations, take part in House Quizzes and represent the college in joint events with Loreto College. There are many exciting opportunities to go on field trips in Years 3, 4 and the Sixth Form.

The Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme is an enrichment programme offered to students.

Geography

LanguagesIn the Languages faculty pupils are given the opportunity to learn three languages (French, Spanish and Latin) as well as coming into direct contact with the culture of the countries where the languages are spoken.

Lower SchoolIn Year 1 pupils start their study of French or Spanish. Pupils are encouraged to see the language as a real form of communication and not just as an abstract concept, and to achieve that, considerable emphasis is placed on Listening and Speaking, as well as acquiring a sound grasp of grammar. At the end of Year 1, all pupils are given the opportunity to visit Blainville in Normandy. In Year 2, all pupils will study French or Spanish and Latin.

GCSE At the end of Year 2, pupils make their GCSE choices. Pupils who opt for French and/or Spanish follow the WJEC specification which helps develop their language capabilities in Listening, Reading, Speaking and Writing. Pupils who opt for Latin follow the OCR specification which develops their knowledge of Latin grammar and vocabulary, and of Roman daily life, history and mythology through the study of Latin literary texts.

Advanced LevelPupils of French and/or Spanish further develop their language skills and also study aspects of the country’s civilisation. The course is designed to develop their ability to become fully operational in the language of their choice, and the syllabus includes up-to-date topics such as immigration and the changes in the family structure. Pupils follow the WJEC specification for French and the AQA specification for Spanish.

Extra Curricular ActivitiesPupils have the opportunity to take part in a variety of trips. In addition to the 1st year visit to Normandy, pupils in Year 4 and above have the opportunity to visit Málaga in southern Spain, or Le Mans in France. They are accommodated in Spanish or French families, thus providing a real insight into the culture, as well as ample opportunity to practise their language. Sixth Formers studying Spanish are offered a week’s Work Experience in a range of Spanish companies in Málaga, whilst those studying French are offered a similar experience in Caen, Normandy.

Many of our Sixth Formers also participate in Year 1 and 2 lessons, helping the younger boys practise their language skills. Many old Ambrosians have gone on to study languages at University, either as a Single or Dual Honours Languages Degree, or in combination with other subjects such as Business Studies, Law and Sciences.

Science at Saint Ambrose College aims to inspire and enthuse pupils.

Lower SchoolIn the Lower School, the emphasis is on the fun and practical nature of science. Pupils learn the essential skills to allow them to carry out investigations safely in a scientific manner. Through six thematic topics per year, they begin to appreciate the fundamental scientific principles, and develop these ideas to apply them to the real world about them. This is reinforced though their extended project homework for each topic. This allows boys to not only develop their scientific skills, but also to express their more creative side.

GCSEAt GCSE from 2015 boys will undertake the new style, terminal Separate Science qualifications. These will prepare them for their A level studies.

Advanced LevelA-level takes the sometimes simplified scientific principles of KS4 and reveals the greater depth and detail of current scientific understanding. Both the pace and content of Biology, Chemistry and Physics A-Levels make them some of the most demanding and sought after qualifications.

Extra curricular ActivitiesPupils regularly participate in local and national scientific competitions such as Salters Chemistry. An active Biology Society; Engineering Club and Medical/Forensic Club allow all pupils the opportunity to develop their scientific interests.

DestinationsThe value and reputation of Science A-levels means that they are able to open very many doors to a vast array of post 18 careers and opportunities for further study. We regularly equip our boys for study at Russell Group Universities and also Oxford and Cambridge.

Featured far left, former Ambrosian Saul Cooper currently studying at Corpus Christi College, Oxford.

Science

Sport & PE

‘I want competitive sport to be at the centre of a truly rounded education that all schools offer’ Michael Gove, Secretary of State for Education.

We are fortunate to offer some of the best facilities in the country, with a 25 metre swimming pool, a four court badminton Sports Hall and a fully equipped Fitness Suite. The outside sporting facilities are also enhanced by three rugby pitches, an all-weather floodlit 4th generation pitch, cricket nets, two artificial wickets and a 7-a-side all-weather football pitch. We have recently added three full sized tennis courts. The outdoor climbing walls and basketball hoops encourage all students to enjoy a sports experience during play and a Trim Trail ensures each child has an opportunity to keep fit.

Lower SchoolStudents will have three, 1 hour periods a fortnight and 2 games periods. One of the PE lessons will be in the pool, where students will improve their techniques, as well as develop personal and life saving skills and will be involved in opportunities at competition level. In PE they will experience Athletic, Games and Gymnastic activities and in outdoor games, develop teamwork in House Competitions.

GCSEIn this stage of development, students will be able to choose the subject as an academic qualification. Coaching and officiating opportunities will be available in a variety of sports. Non academic lessons will develop health and related fitness programmes where access to the Fitness Suite will enable students to improve their knowledge of training. House games will also be an important part of the subject with competition encouraged.

Advanced LevelAS and A2 PE is offered to sixth form students and again opportunities for coaching and officiating are given in swimming, rugby and football as well as some minority sports. Access to facilities in study periods will enable Sixth Form students to pursue their interest in sport.

Extra Curricular ActivitiesWhilst concentrating on the academic side of a boy’s career, we also feel that sporting and extra-curricular engagement is vital. At Saint Ambrose College your son will be encouraged to involve himself in as many activities as possible and will be spoilt for choice.

The extra curricular programme is extensive with students representing College Rugby Union, Cross-Country, Basketball, Swimming, Water Polo, Athletics, Table Tennis, Tennis, Badminton and Cricket Teams. Three Senior Soccer teams and individual sports are encouraged within the College. Inter School Tournaments are run in Football, Badminton and Rowing. The College also holds its own triathlon.

The following list of clubs is by no means exhaustive as every year new staff bring new talents and interests to the school.

Rugby Union Badminton Martial Arts Box-a-CiseTrampolining VolleyballSwimming Weight TrainingWater Polo RowingTennis AthleticsTable Tennis BasketballCricket Boot CampCross Country TriathlonGaelic Football Gymnastics

Tours The College has become renowned for its biannual sports tours. Senior Students have visited Barbados, South America, South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, Fiji, America and Canada. Junior tours similarly have travelled to Ireland, France, Holland and Italy. Many continuing sporting links have been made with these countries.

Old AmbrosiansSaint Ambrose Old Boys have established themselves in many local community teams in a variety of roles. Many Old Ambrosians have gone on to play at the highest level and are full rugby internationals with many recent students representing England under 16 and 18. Our Current 1st XV prop Ciaran Parker, (featured left), has recently signed for Sale Sharks and has toured South Africa with the England Under 18 side. Last Years 1st XV captain Sam Moncur represented Scotland at U-18 age group. Other sports have had similar success Domaine Rouse at Bury FC and Alexander McQuade at Shrewsbury are full time professionals with Ben Hampson at Bolton Wanderers in the second year of his Senior Academy. Ciaran Murphy a former Saint Ambrose athlete is also on the list of the few English athletes to run a sub four minute mile. Cricket and swimming have also provided local, national and international competitors from Saint Ambrose students.

Sporting CompetitionsCollege sides compete in a variety of local, divisional and National Competitions giving students the opportunity to play at the highest level. Many students will represent Trafford and Cheshire as well as the opportunity at Northern and National levels. We expect students to represent the College when chosen and enjoy the diversity of sport offered continuing to raise the standards of the College’s growing reputation.

Statistics & Results

A Level Results 2014

GCSE Results 2014

Attendance & Absence2014-2015

Authorised Absence 3.28%Unauthorised Absence 0.08%

Destination of Sixth Form Leavers 2012 2013 2014

University 97 82 86Gap year 5 12 7Further Study 0 0 0Employment 1 2 1Uncertain 0 0 0

Total 103 96 94

Key Stage 3 Results 2014

A* A B C D E U Total Total A*/B %A*/B

Art & Des (Fine Art) 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 Biology 2 5 4 2 1 0 0 14 11 79 Business Studies 1 8 15 11 0 0 0 35 24 69 Chemistry 4 8 10 1 0 1 0 24 22 92 Computing 0 1 0 2 0 0 0 3 1 33 Design Technology 0 2 2 1 2 0 0 7 4 57 Economics 1 6 10 8 2 0 0 27 17 63 English Lang & Lit 1 5 14 4 0 0 0 24 20 83 French 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 Geography 0 1 6 3 0 0 0 10 7 70 Gov & Pol 0 3 7 4 1 1 0 16 10 63 History 3 15 15 12 0 0 0 45 33 73 Classics 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 100 Maths 4 17 8 2 1 1 0 33 29 88 Fur Maths 2 0 1 0 1 0 0 4 3 75 Music 0 1 1 1 0 1 0 4 2 50 Japanese 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 100 Physics 2 8 6 5 1 0 0 22 16 73 Religious Studies 0 1 9 7 2 0 0 19 10 53 Spanish 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 3 2 67 Sport & PE 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 2 0 0

Total 20 82 111 66 12 5 0 296 213 72.0 %age 6.8 27.7 37.5 22.3 4.1 1.7 0.0

Cumulative %age 6.8 34.5 72.0 94.3 98.3 100.0 100.0

General Studies 0 2 5 3 1 0 0 11 7 64

Total 20 84 116 69 13 5 0 307 220 71.7 %age 6.5 27.4 37.8 22.5 4.2 1.6 0.0

Cumulative %age 6.5 33.9 71.7 94.1 98.4 100.0 100.0

Teacher Assessment:

Percentage at each level Core Subjects 3 4 5 6 7 8 English 0 0 1 63 37 0 Mathematics 0 0 1 12 64 24 Science 0 0 0 7 87 6 Teacher Assessment: Percentage at each level Non-core subjects 3 4 5 6 7 8

MFL

French 0 1 99 0 0 0 Spanish 0 7 92 0 0 1

Design & Technology

0 0 0 3 81 15 Geography 0 0 1 32 67 0 History 0 0 1 26 73 0 Art 0 0 1 68 31 0 Drama 0 0 Music 0 5 72 20 3 0 Physical Education 0 1 50 44 5 0 Religious Education 0 0 0 28 70 2 Latin 7 93 0 0 0 0

A* A B C D E F G U X Total %A*/A %A*-B

Art 5 4 4 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 14 64.3 92.9

Biology 13 13 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 31 83.9 100.0

Chemistry 18 9 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 31 87.1 100.0

Physics 18 9 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 31 87.1 100.0

Science 3 46 48 26 2 0 0 0 0 0 125 39.2 77.6 Science Additional 8 42 40 23 12 0 0 0 0 0 125 40.0 72.0 Science Further Additional 0 2 3 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 28.6 71.4

Latin 4 4 0 0 4 0 0 1 0 0 13 61.5 61.5

Geography 26 14 5 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 47 85.1 95.7

History 14 30 31 20 0 1 1 0 0 0 97 45.4 77.3

Music 2 5 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 11 63.6 100.0

Maths 32 46 53 25 0 0 0 0 0 0 156 50.0 84.0

Computer Science 31 22 13 3 2 0 1 0 0 0 72 73.6 91.7

DT Graphics 12 27 14 5 3 0 0 0 0 0 61 63.9 86.9

Drama 2 10 8 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 21 57.1 95.2

Sport & PE 2 25 26 8 0 0 0 0 0 0 61 44.3 86.9

French 11 9 2 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 25 80.0 88.0

Spanish 8 12 10 8 3 5 0 0 0 0 46 43.5 65.2

English Language 7 39 79 28 3 0 0 0 0 0 156 29.5 80.1

English Literature 23 71 44 16 2 0 0 0 0 0 156 60.3 88.5

RE 31 44 59 19 3 0 0 0 0 0 156 48.1 85.9

Further Maths 18 16 13 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 50 68.0 94.0

A* A B C D E F G U X

Overall 288 499 469 193 34 6 2 1 0 0 1492

% 19.3 33.4 31.4 12.9 2.3 0.4 0.1 0.1 0.0 0.0

Cumulative 19.3 52.75 84.2 97.1 99.4 99.8 99.9 100.0 100.0 100.0 %5A*-C 98.7 Av Pt Score 6.48 %5A*-B 86.5 48.90 %5A*/A 53.2

Saint Ambrose CollegeM D Thompson M.A., F.R.S.A.Head MasterHale Barns, Altrincham, WA15 0HE.tel: 0161 980 2711 www.st-ambrosecollege.org.ukemail:office@st-ambrosecollege.org.uk

‘Let us preach without preaching, not by word, but by example, by the catching force, the sympathetic influence our hearts bear to you.’ John Henry Newman