Icknield High School is one of the most successful high schools in Luton and has been held in high esteem by the local community since it was built in 1949.
It is the largest school in Luton which reflects the popularity of the School with parents and the fact we are heavily over-subscribed for the 290 places on offer each year for Year 7. The parents value not only the high academic standards but the pastoral care in the School which results in students being able to develop and thrive in a secure and safe environment. Icknield is a truly inclusive school catering for the full range of ability with a specialist provision for the Hearing Impaired and the foundation for our continuing success is based upon the Respect and CARES agenda which resonates throughout everything the School does.
Key stage 3
The curriculum at key stage 3 is designed to build on learning undertaken at key stage 2. They address any evident gaps in knowledge when students join us in year 7. We work very closely with our main feeder schools to ensure we understand their curriculum and outcomes so no time is wasted. There is a strong focus on literacy, reading and mathematics for students of all abilities, but in particular for the many students who have outcomes below national average when they first arrive at Icknield. The decision to include an extra literacy period in year 7 is as a result of this, and we are confident that our key stage 3 curriculum provides students with the foundation knowledge needed to access the academically challenging key stage 4 programmes of study.
Key stage 4
At key stage 4 the curriculum builds upon the foundation work undertaken at key stage 3. We do this by ensuring that students develop a deeper and more insightful understanding of the core knowledge underpinning their subjects. Whilst academic rigour is at the heart of our curriculum, we also recognise the importance of students continuing to access the wider curriculum beyond the restraints of the GCSE specifications. There continues to be a strong focus on Literacy, Reading and Mathematics for students of all abilities at key stage 4. At key stage 4 all students follow a core curriculum which includes: English, Mathematics, Science, Core Physical Education, PSHE and a Visual Art subject of their choice. The following option subjects are also available for students to select as an open choice: Business Studies, Computer Science, Design Technology, Food Technology, French, Geography, German, Health & Social Care, History, Spanish, Sport science, Sport studies and Music.
Special Needs Provision
The School aims to fully support each student to achieve their potential. In regular lessons, support is provided by teaching and support staff. We also provide individual and small group teaching for students with learning difficulties. There are well equipped teaching rooms provided with specialist resources, including computers/laptops, to assist students in developing their skills. All students with learning difficulties are encouraged to use these facilities during lunchtimes with staff support. Students with Education, Health and Care Plans are supported through allocation of specialist staff time and provision is monitored by officers of the Local Authority
Religious Education
They endeavour to provide opportunities for all students to acquire knowledge about and understanding of major world faiths, and to reflect on and respond to human experiences. Students are taught about key religious beliefs and the importance of religious founders. All units are linked to the locally agreed syllabus and cover the six major world religions.
Relationships, Sex and Health Education
They want all children to grow up healthy, happy, safe, and able to manage the challenges and opportunities of modern Britain. That is why, since September 2020, all secondary age children are expected to be taught Relationships, Sex and Health Education. These subjects are designed to equip your child with knowledge to make informed decisions about their wellbeing, health and relationships as well as preparing them for a successful adult life. The world for all young people looks very different from the way it did 20 years ago when this curriculum was last updated – these changes bring the content into the 21st century, so that it is relevant for your child. The school will have flexibility to deliver the content in a way that is age and developmentally appropriate and sensitive to the needs and religious background of its students.
SEND AND HSD
Icknield High School prides itself on being an Inclusive School; the inclusive culture of Icknield is also reflected in all our school policies and practices. They make sure that classroom and extra-curricular activities encourage the participation of all pupils, drawing on their knowledge and experience outside school. Teaching and support are integrated together, enabling all pupils to overcome barriers to learning and participate fully in school life.
VISUAL ARTS PROVISION
At Icknield High School they value the creative arts and believe that every student should be given the opportunity to develop their knowledge and skills in this area. They believe that the exceptional provision encourages students to become independent learners who are prepared to face the challenges of the world beyond the school’s gates. As such, every student studies the core principles of Art and Design at Key Stage 3, before choosing either Art and Design, Graphic Communication, Film or Textiles to study in greater depth at Key Stage 4. We are proud of the fact that all of our students leave us with a GCSE in a creative arts subject.
LITERACY
At Icknield High School, we believe that literacy and communication are skills for life. Through the curriculum that the school offers, we will help our students develop the skills and knowledge that will enable them to communicate effectively and creatively through spoken and written language to equip them with the skills to become lifelong learners. We want our students to enjoy and appreciate literature in its rich variety.
REMOTE LEARNING
This policy outlines best practice for remote learning provision in the circumstances of a partial or a whole school closure. In the event of a school closure, the school is committed to providing continuity of education to its students and will do so through a process of remote learning. Extensive remote learning will apply particularly in a situation in which the school is closed for an extended period, but a high proportion of students and teachers are healthy, and able to work as normal from home.
Please check the school website link for details.
0.18 miles
