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Principal s Welcome Within Fort Hill Integrated College we offer a quality education as an 11 18 co educational allability inclusive and integrated school Our integrated status is embodied in the development of the whole person encompassing the intellectual emotional physical social cultural and spiritual dimensions of the young people in our care Therefore our school is organised in such a way as to address all of these facets of our pupils personalities Our pupils come first We admit pupils from all cultural religious and social backgrounds recognising their unique needs backgrounds cultures and aspirations and work alongside them supporting and challenging them to fulfil their potential as respected and respectful young adults We value the unique contribution of each pupil in building a learning community whilst also recognising the significance of the home support surrounding them I am very proud to be the Principal of Fort Hill Integrated College and know it is an honour and privilege to work with pupils staff parents and governors in this educational setting expecting the very best from all within this community that constitutes the Fort Hill family Mr Colin Millar Principal 01
Our History Fort Hill Integrated College is set in a beautifully wooded 20 acre site on the Belfast Road Lisburn It is thought that the site was originally that of an early Christian earthwork with a view over the Lagan Valley hence the name Fort Hill The school came into existence in 1959 and for nearly sixty years has promoted the best traditional values while employing modern teaching techniques and facilities to ensure all pupils achieve their potential in a caring environment From the initial girls high school then a co educational school Fort Hill transformed to an integrated college and it continues to grow sitting in an integrated campus with Fort Hill Integrated Primary School providing nursery primary and post primary education on the shared site Mission Statement WE SEEK ACHIEVEMENT THROUGH CO OPERATION TEAMWORK AND UNDERSTANDING OUR CORE VALUES ARE AT THE HEART OF THE SCHOOL HONESTY EFFORT ATTITUDE RESPECT AND TOLERANCE School Aims We aim to shape tomorrow s world by what we teach our children today To educate our pupils in an environment where they will come to understand and respect those who differ from them in creed culture race gender or ability and to recognise and value their diversity To provide our pupils with a relevant and balanced curriculum supplemented in such a way as to fulfil the individual needs of all pupils in a context which taking account of their past experiences enables them to achieve their full potential To assist our pupils in the development of their self confidence and self respect so that they can accept and appreciate their personal achievements and celebrate the achievements of others To continue to develop and nurture a meaningful educational partnership between the school the home and the community in recognition that we are all partners in the education process To encourage our pupils to accept the need for and conform to appropriate rules and standards of socially acceptable behaviour preparing them to take responsibility for their lives as adults with the skills values and attitudes necessary in a changing social political cultural and technological environment Perhaps we might begin to understand that exploring difference does not have to be a negative experience NICIE 02 03
Our History Fort Hill Integrated College is set in a beautifully wooded 20 acre site on the Belfast Road Lisburn It is thought that the site was originally that of an early Christian earthwork with a view over the Lagan Valley hence the name Fort Hill The school came into existence in 1959 and for nearly sixty years has promoted the best traditional values while employing modern teaching techniques and facilities to ensure all pupils achieve their potential in a caring environment From the initial girls high school then a co educational school Fort Hill transformed to an integrated college and it continues to grow sitting in an integrated campus with Fort Hill Integrated Primary School providing nursery primary and post primary education on the shared site Mission Statement WE SEEK ACHIEVEMENT THROUGH CO OPERATION TEAMWORK AND UNDERSTANDING OUR CORE VALUES ARE AT THE HEART OF THE SCHOOL HONESTY EFFORT ATTITUDE RESPECT AND TOLERANCE School Aims We aim to shape tomorrow s world by what we teach our children today To educate our pupils in an environment where they will come to understand and respect those who differ from them in creed culture race gender or ability and to recognise and value their diversity To provide our pupils with a relevant and balanced curriculum supplemented in such a way as to fulfil the individual needs of all pupils in a context which taking account of their past experiences enables them to achieve their full potential To assist our pupils in the development of their self confidence and self respect so that they can accept and appreciate their personal achievements and celebrate the achievements of others To continue to develop and nurture a meaningful educational partnership between the school the home and the community in recognition that we are all partners in the education process To encourage our pupils to accept the need for and conform to appropriate rules and standards of socially acceptable behaviour preparing them to take responsibility for their lives as adults with the skills values and attitudes necessary in a changing social political cultural and technological environment Perhaps we might begin to understand that exploring difference does not have to be a negative experience NICIE 02 03
Curriculum Provision Fort Hill Integrated College follows the current curriculum specifications as required by the Department of Education providing a broad and balanced curriculum for all its pupils We have a dedicated and specialist staff who endeavour to ensure that the individual needs of the pupil are a priority and that all pupils enjoy equality of access to the most up to date learning and teaching methods They engage in a constant evaluation and review of learning strategies and course content This enables the school to keep abreast of educational developments and to adapt to the changing needs of pupils and society Learning Framework The school day begins at 8 55am in Form Registration allowing pupils to meet with their Form Teacher on a daily basis and share relevant information This provides both a key vehicle in our pastoral care and establishes a learning focus for all pupils to prepare to engage in their curriculum experience for the day Each period is 45 minutes long with double period lessons allowing for provision of practical subjects such as Art and Design Home Economics Physical Education and Technology and Design The school day ends at 3 20pm with regular extra curricular activities following Each year group is divided into registration classes entry into which is decided upon by academic ability determined by the outcome of baseline testing In this way we believe that pupil progress will be better catered for as we meet their individual needs more appropriately During the first three years we review pupil progress annually within these registration classes Where appropriate pupils may move between classes depending on the levels of their progress ability and effort Homework We consider homework to be a vital feature of the learning process and education of our pupils Homework reinforces the pupils on going development and supplements classroom activity Pupils will receive a Student Planner in which details of homework are recorded This planner supports the important link between pupils teachers and parents encouraging regular and meaningful communication Key Stage 3 Pupils follow courses including the following subjects Art and Design Business Studies Citizenship Employability English French Geography German History Home Economics Information Technology Learning for Life and Work Mathematics Music Personal Social and Health Education Physical Education Religious Education Science Technology and Design Key Stage 4 Pupils follow examination and assessment courses in a variety of subjects In order to accommodate the individual needs of each pupil we strive to ensure as wide a range of examination entry as possible with both academic and vocational courses Key Stage 5 Our Sixth Form specialises in academic and work related Level 3 courses including A Level Vocational courses and a CACHE Diploma in Child Care Religious Studies Our Religious Education programme follows the Northern Ireland Curriculum requirements as agreed by the four main churches Any parent wishing to obtain particular religious provision for their child should contact the Principal 04 05
Curriculum Provision Fort Hill Integrated College follows the current curriculum specifications as required by the Department of Education providing a broad and balanced curriculum for all its pupils We have a dedicated and specialist staff who endeavour to ensure that the individual needs of the pupil are a priority and that all pupils enjoy equality of access to the most up to date learning and teaching methods They engage in a constant evaluation and review of learning strategies and course content This enables the school to keep abreast of educational developments and to adapt to the changing needs of pupils and society Learning Framework The school day begins at 8 55am in Form Registration allowing pupils to meet with their Form Teacher on a daily basis and share relevant information This provides both a key vehicle in our pastoral care and establishes a learning focus for all pupils to prepare to engage in their curriculum experience for the day Each period is 45 minutes long with double period lessons allowing for provision of practical subjects such as Art and Design Home Economics Physical Education and Technology and Design The school day ends at 3 20pm with regular extra curricular activities following Each year group is divided into registration classes entry into which is decided upon by academic ability determined by the outcome of baseline testing In this way we believe that pupil progress will be better catered for as we meet their individual needs more appropriately During the first three years we review pupil progress annually within these registration classes Where appropriate pupils may move between classes depending on the levels of their progress ability and effort Homework We consider homework to be a vital feature of the learning process and education of our pupils Homework reinforces the pupils on going development and supplements classroom activity Pupils will receive a Student Planner in which details of homework are recorded This planner supports the important link between pupils teachers and parents encouraging regular and meaningful communication Key Stage 3 Pupils follow courses including the following subjects Art and Design Business Studies Citizenship Employability English French Geography German History Home Economics Information Technology Learning for Life and Work Mathematics Music Personal Social and Health Education Physical Education Religious Education Science Technology and Design Key Stage 4 Pupils follow examination and assessment courses in a variety of subjects In order to accommodate the individual needs of each pupil we strive to ensure as wide a range of examination entry as possible with both academic and vocational courses Key Stage 5 Our Sixth Form specialises in academic and work related Level 3 courses including A Level Vocational courses and a CACHE Diploma in Child Care Religious Studies Our Religious Education programme follows the Northern Ireland Curriculum requirements as agreed by the four main churches Any parent wishing to obtain particular religious provision for their child should contact the Principal 04 05
Learning Environment Facilities available to pupils at Fort Hill Integrated College to assist in the provision of sporting and extra curricular activities include Grass and all weather football and hockey pitches Tennis courts Sports Hall Fitness Studio Outdoor fitness equipment Netball courts Gymnasium Basketball court Volleyball court Badminton court Art and Design Suite Home Economics Suite Drama Lecture Theatre ICT rooms iMac Suites Library Music practice rooms Technology and Design Suites 06 07
Learning Environment Facilities available to pupils at Fort Hill Integrated College to assist in the provision of sporting and extra curricular activities include Grass and all weather football and hockey pitches Tennis courts Sports Hall Fitness Studio Outdoor fitness equipment Netball courts Gymnasium Basketball court Volleyball court Badminton court Art and Design Suite Home Economics Suite Drama Lecture Theatre ICT rooms iMac Suites Library Music practice rooms Technology and Design Suites 06 07
A Caring Environment We place great emphasis on academic achievement but also Our Safeguarding policy is in line with guidelines set down by the recognise the importance of helping pupils to develop into complete Department of Education All staff teaching and non teaching young adults who are equipped to fulfil their potential have been given training in safeguarding procedures and this is updated regularly We have a Designated Teacher and two Deputy We believe that the protection of children and their welfare is Designated Teachers for Child Protection Parents may address any paramount and to this end we maintain strong partnerships with concerns they have regarding child welfare either inside or outside outside agencies working together to ensure that our pupils are safe school directly to them and protected in every aspect of their lives As in any community we have rewards and sanctions rules and regulations High personal standards are encouraged with regard to work appearance and conduct Pupils are expected to display good manners and thoughtful respectful behaviour at all times treating others as they would wish to be treated My children are being educated in a positive and caring environment while being allowed to keep and build their own individual personalities They are round pegs in round holes Parent Within our Houses Bann Erne Foyle Lagan and Shimna we acknowledge and reward pupils who display positive behaviour in any aspect of school life awarding bronze silver and ultimately gold merit badges Unacceptable behaviour is dealt with promptly and fairly giving pupils the opportunity to learn from their mistakes and improve protect them from harm We encourage pupils to speak out against bullying and to recognise and report anything which concerns them It is our belief that every pupil has the right to be educated in a caring supportive environment free from intimidation Pupils should be allowed to develop their confidence and self esteem in an atmosphere of mutual respect Our Pastoral system incorporating Bully Buddies gives the opportunity for discussion and disclosure of incidents of bullying enabling us to act quickly when alerted to a problem We do not tolerate any level of bullying and treat seriously any incident reported to us listening to and supporting the victim Staff and pupils are committed to our Anti Bullying Code This states our intent to safeguard the welfare of all pupils entrusted to us and to This school has a soul and because of this its future is well catered for Former Principal 08 09
A Caring Environment We place great emphasis on academic achievement but also Our Safeguarding policy is in line with guidelines set down by the recognise the importance of helping pupils to develop into complete Department of Education All staff teaching and non teaching young adults who are equipped to fulfil their potential have been given training in safeguarding procedures and this is updated regularly We have a Designated Teacher and two Deputy We believe that the protection of children and their welfare is Designated Teachers for Child Protection Parents may address any paramount and to this end we maintain strong partnerships with concerns they have regarding child welfare either inside or outside outside agencies working together to ensure that our pupils are safe school directly to them and protected in every aspect of their lives As in any community we have rewards and sanctions rules and regulations High personal standards are encouraged with regard to work appearance and conduct Pupils are expected to display good manners and thoughtful respectful behaviour at all times treating others as they would wish to be treated My children are being educated in a positive and caring environment while being allowed to keep and build their own individual personalities They are round pegs in round holes Parent Within our Houses Bann Erne Foyle Lagan and Shimna we acknowledge and reward pupils who display positive behaviour in any aspect of school life awarding bronze silver and ultimately gold merit badges Unacceptable behaviour is dealt with promptly and fairly giving pupils the opportunity to learn from their mistakes and improve protect them from harm We encourage pupils to speak out against bullying and to recognise and report anything which concerns them It is our belief that every pupil has the right to be educated in a caring supportive environment free from intimidation Pupils should be allowed to develop their confidence and self esteem in an atmosphere of mutual respect Our Pastoral system incorporating Bully Buddies gives the opportunity for discussion and disclosure of incidents of bullying enabling us to act quickly when alerted to a problem We do not tolerate any level of bullying and treat seriously any incident reported to us listening to and supporting the victim Staff and pupils are committed to our Anti Bullying Code This states our intent to safeguard the welfare of all pupils entrusted to us and to This school has a soul and because of this its future is well catered for Former Principal 08 09
Uniform We are justifiably proud of our school uniform as it incorporates elements of our historical position within the local community and our current integrated status When a pupil accepts a place in Fort Hill by implication they also accept our uniform policy School uniform must be worn while travelling to and from Fort Hill at all times while in school and during other designated functions and events School Canteen Our on site canteen offers breakfast break and lunch menus It was the first in the South Eastern Region to offer a cashless payment scheme Purchasing is facilitated through the use of a biometric fingerprint system that eliminates the need for dinner tickets SEN Provision The pupils at Fort Hill are streamed into classes that best suit their ability A broad spectrum of educational needs is catered for through the process of differentiation within the classroom and supplemented when required by Individual Education Plans Facilities are also available for the provision of smaller groups to support children with Special Needs and the school is developing the school s inclusive practice integrating a significant number of ASD pupils into mainstream classes Individual pupils may receive additional support depending on the particular needs of the child The school is caring and supportive and offers an environment that allows pupils and staff to work in mutual respect to develop their understanding and capabilities New Teacher 10 11
Uniform We are justifiably proud of our school uniform as it incorporates elements of our historical position within the local community and our current integrated status When a pupil accepts a place in Fort Hill by implication they also accept our uniform policy School uniform must be worn while travelling to and from Fort Hill at all times while in school and during other designated functions and events School Canteen Our on site canteen offers breakfast break and lunch menus It was the first in the South Eastern Region to offer a cashless payment scheme Purchasing is facilitated through the use of a biometric fingerprint system that eliminates the need for dinner tickets SEN Provision The pupils at Fort Hill are streamed into classes that best suit their ability A broad spectrum of educational needs is catered for through the process of differentiation within the classroom and supplemented when required by Individual Education Plans Facilities are also available for the provision of smaller groups to support children with Special Needs and the school is developing the school s inclusive practice integrating a significant number of ASD pupils into mainstream classes Individual pupils may receive additional support depending on the particular needs of the child The school is caring and supportive and offers an environment that allows pupils and staff to work in mutual respect to develop their understanding and capabilities New Teacher 10 11
I have been able to achieve some excellent qualifications that will help me when I leave I am proud that I have been a pupil at Fort Hill Sixth Form pupil Extra Curricular Fort Hill Integrated College is a closely knit community but continues to reach into the wider community preparing our young people to take their rightful place in society as responsible and effective citizens After School Clubs A wide range of extra curricular activities is on offer These include Art and Design Choir Orchestra Instrumental Tuition Scripture Union Library Duke of Edinburgh Computer Club Film Club and Drama together with numerous sporting clubs e g football rugby gaelic hockey netball basketball athletics cross country tennis cricket volleyball and other opportunities that arise during the year School Trips and Visits Educational visits are a key part of the learning experience and are arranged by departments as part of the curriculum enrichment Other school trips organised in recent years have included ski trips attending English Premier League matches Iceland America and Special Olympic events 12 13
I have been able to achieve some excellent qualifications that will help me when I leave I am proud that I have been a pupil at Fort Hill Sixth Form pupil Extra Curricular Fort Hill Integrated College is a closely knit community but continues to reach into the wider community preparing our young people to take their rightful place in society as responsible and effective citizens After School Clubs A wide range of extra curricular activities is on offer These include Art and Design Choir Orchestra Instrumental Tuition Scripture Union Library Duke of Edinburgh Computer Club Film Club and Drama together with numerous sporting clubs e g football rugby gaelic hockey netball basketball athletics cross country tennis cricket volleyball and other opportunities that arise during the year School Trips and Visits Educational visits are a key part of the learning experience and are arranged by departments as part of the curriculum enrichment Other school trips organised in recent years have included ski trips attending English Premier League matches Iceland America and Special Olympic events 12 13
Student Voice Student Voice is a leadership team comprising of 2 pupil representatives from each Year Group who have been elected by their peers These pupils provide a liaison between pupils from each Year Group and staff in Fort Hill bringing forward ideas and suggestions for consideration Student Voice also nominates selects and supports a charity organisation donating any money raised through activities and events undertaken throughout the school year Preparing For The Future Throughout Key Stage 3 pupils receive lessons in Employability This introduces them to Personal Career Planning Globalisation Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Strong links with the local business community mean pupils benefit from visits into school by different employers entrepreneurs and trips out to sample various working environments Careers education continues in Key Stage 4 where pupils receive information on Post 16 choices personal qualities job applications and the individual s rights in the work place Pupils participate in a programme which provides an opportunity for work placements in Year 12 Post 16 pupils follow a programme that includes personal career plans mock interviews producing a Curriculum Vitae and preparation for employment University entrance is supported by visiting guest speakers from Colleges Universities and workplaces and preparation and support through the UCAS application process All pupils at Key Stage 4 and 5 attend a Careers Convention building individualised pathways into life post school The outstanding support from the staff pupils and parents of Fort Hill is invaluable in the planning and maintaining of the important services provided by our charity Local Charity Organiser I was greatly impressed by the outstanding achievements of the Fort Hill students Many congratulations to all concerned on yet another year of excellent results Prize Day Guest Speaker 14 15
Student Voice Student Voice is a leadership team comprising of 2 pupil representatives from each Year Group who have been elected by their peers These pupils provide a liaison between pupils from each Year Group and staff in Fort Hill bringing forward ideas and suggestions for consideration Student Voice also nominates selects and supports a charity organisation donating any money raised through activities and events undertaken throughout the school year Preparing For The Future Throughout Key Stage 3 pupils receive lessons in Employability This introduces them to Personal Career Planning Globalisation Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Strong links with the local business community mean pupils benefit from visits into school by different employers entrepreneurs and trips out to sample various working environments Careers education continues in Key Stage 4 where pupils receive information on Post 16 choices personal qualities job applications and the individual s rights in the work place Pupils participate in a programme which provides an opportunity for work placements in Year 12 Post 16 pupils follow a programme that includes personal career plans mock interviews producing a Curriculum Vitae and preparation for employment University entrance is supported by visiting guest speakers from Colleges Universities and workplaces and preparation and support through the UCAS application process All pupils at Key Stage 4 and 5 attend a Careers Convention building individualised pathways into life post school The outstanding support from the staff pupils and parents of Fort Hill is invaluable in the planning and maintaining of the important services provided by our charity Local Charity Organiser I was greatly impressed by the outstanding achievements of the Fort Hill students Many congratulations to all concerned on yet another year of excellent results Prize Day Guest Speaker 14 15
Home School Contact We welcome and nurture communication links between home and school When these links are strong our pupils can only benefit as a result In support of these connections school organises meetings which give teaching staff and parents the opportunity to discuss pupil effort and achievements within our school community The first of these meetings takes place in September when our Year 8 parents are invited into school During the course of this evening parents meet with their child s Form Teacher Pastoral Leader and other key members of staff Joining a new school can be a daunting experience for parents as well as pupils The relaxed informal nature of this event makes it a worthwhile and popular evening further embedding the key relationships that should follow through pupils post primary life If any specific academic or pastoral issues arise throughout the year parents can arrange an interview by appointment with the relevant Pastoral Leader 16