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Queen Margaret's School • Escrick Park • York • YO19 6EU Tel: 01904 728261 Fax: 01904 728150
Copyright © 2009 Queen Margaret's School. All rights reserved.
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Queen Margaret's School
Escrick Park
YORK
YO19 6EU
Tel: 01904 728261
Fax: 01904 728150
Headmaster Dr Paul Silverwood
Deputy Head Mrs Jane King
Bursar Mr Stephen Bentley
Director of Studies Dr Anne Buchan
Senior Master Mr Stuart Nettleship
Head of Sixth Form Miss Claire Wood
Phone +44 (0) 1904 728261
Fax +44 (0) 1904 728150
Email enquiries@queenmargarets.com
The Bursar
Phone +44 (0) 1904 728804
Fax +44 (0) 1904 728150
Email bursar@queenmargarets.com
Director of Marketing & Admissions Mrs Rachel Hicks
Admissions Secretary Mrs Jackie Hallewell
Phone +44 (0) 1904 720072
Fax +44 (0) 1904 728838
Email admissions@queenmargarets.com
Medical Centre Duty Sister
Phone +44 (0) 1904 728810
Email enquiries@queenmargarets.com
Buildings and Services Manager Mr Quinn Cardy
Phone/Fax +44 (0) 1904 728913
Email qcardy@queenmargarets.com
Welcome to Queen Margaret's Queen Margaret's is a busy and successful boarding and day school for girls, aged 11-18.
Our girls achieve excellence across all academic disciplines and enjoy success in sport and the creative and performing arts. Please take a look at our Ethos and Aims and gain a quick overview of the school from the Headmaster's Perspective and the Head Girl's Perspective.
We look forward to welcoming you to Escrick Park very soon.
Welcome to QM
•
Ethos and Aims
•
Headmaster's Perspective
•
Head Girl's Perspective
•
QM Challenge
•
Latest News
•
York
•
Location
• Directions
•
QM History
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Ethos
A Queen Margaret’s education is an exciting, challenging and balanced experience. Our girls are part of a community of people who care for each other and grow as individuals. They develop a wealth of skills for use in their own lives and ideals to make a difference in the world. At the heart of a QM education is a love of learning, which is supported by a healthy body and healthy mind. When a girl has completed her education at QM she will be a free thinking, courageous individual, prepared to take her learning to the next level and her place in the modern world.
Aims of the School
Queen Margaret’s is a modern school for girls who aspire to be leaders in every walk of life. QM girls take advantage of the rich and complementary programme of studies and activities available to them. In doing so, we hope that they will:
• achieve excellence inside and outside the classroom
• develop an enthusiasm for independent thought, learning and research
• grow with emotional maturity, social awareness and respect for individuality and difference
• forge special friendships that will stay with them for the rest of their lives
• be interesting, well-informed, happy and confident members of the community
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Click here to read the Headmaster's latest perspective.
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I started at QM in the 3rd year and going from a Lancashire day school to a Yorkshire boarding school was a bit of a culture shock! However, the transition was made far easier, by living with a hilarious group of sixty girls of my age, by the support of the housemistresses (who dealt with problems ranging from lost underwear to homesickness) and by the amount of activities available. The first few weeks flew by. Our time was filled up with sport matches, junior plays, music lessons, normal lessons, break time toast and of course, dorm hopping.
Five years later, and I’m as busy as ever, playing senior sport, performing in senior plays such as ‘A Christmas Carol’ (and still going to lessons!). Now, as sixth formers, we also have added distractions like shopping in York, the famous QM Battle of the Bands and, on Saturday nights, the draw of ‘Cellars’, the Sixth form bar.
With the mixture of old and new buildings and facilities, Escrick Park is a pretty cool place to live and the beautiful grounds even make going for runs around the ‘Cinders’ track bearable. The Common Room is the centre of each year group and is the place to have a laugh with your friends, make toast and watch our beloved Neighbours: all things that are high up on QM girls’ priorities.
However Escrick and boarding aren’t for everyone so come and have a look round and decide for yourself. If you do come here, you will have years ahead of you living with your best friends for 36 weeks each year. As I enter Upper Sixth, I must admit that when I think that new girls have so much time at QM ahead of them, I am a tad jealous.
Jenny Hobbiss
Head Girl
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Thank you to all of you who have submitted articles, posters and house lyrics for the website… over the next couple of weeks you will see lots of your materials appear on the site.
Last week I gave a commendation to Serena Gosling – the winner of QM Challenge I for her report on the Bronze DofE expedition.
Today we launch the second challenge… it is to capture (in a photograph) an aspect of QM life… you might want to look out for…
A friend scoring a winning goal
A girl engrossed in a book
A birthday celebration in the common room
Someone quietly going about their daily routine
A girl making a difference to the environment
The violin section of the orchestra working as one
An early morning, dreamy, view of the school
Please send your photograph to me by email: headmaster@queenmargarets.com
The best photographs will get published and prizes will be awarded in assembly on Monday 19 October.
Paul Silverwood
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Welcome to the News and Diary pages where we aim, through reports and pictures, to give you an insight into life at
Queen Margaret's School.
(Link to latest news)
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The stunning city of York, voted European Tourism City of the Year in 2007, is only six miles from QM. It is a major resource for our girls in terms of theatres, culture and facilities and we have strong links with both of the universities and many local businesses.
York is extremely accessible by both road and rail. The high-speed train journey to London is under two hours and Edinburgh is only 2½ hours away. The international airports at Leeds-Bradford and Manchester are also within easy reach.
For more information about York, please see www.visityork.org
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Click here for PDF map of location
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Click here for PDF of National Directions
Click here for PDF of Local Directions
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Queen Margaret’s is celebrating 60 years on its current site at Escrick Park in September 2009, but between its foundation in 1901 and the move to Escrick in 1949 the school had three different homes. The school takes its name from Scotland's only female Saint, Queen Margaret, Queen of Scotland 1070-1093.
QM was established in Scarborough in 1901 by the Woodard Foundation, an organisation committed to the establishment of boarding schools where teaching would be firmly based on the Christian religion. Following evacuation to Pitlochry during the First World War, and then to Castle Howard during the Second, the school finally came to Escrick Park, six miles south of York, in 1949.
Previously, this magnificent country house, built with the assistance of John Carr in 1758 and set in almost seventy acres of beautiful parkland, had been a private residence. The Main Building retains the atmosphere of a spacious home and now accommodates both the impressive library and middle school boarding areas as well as the Headmaster’s Study, Staff Room and administrative offices.
In 1986, following an initiative by the parents and governors, the school was re-established under a new company, limited by guarantee and registered with the Charities Commission. At the same time the school became independent of the Woodard Foundation. Since then the school has enjoyed a period of dramatic expansion, investing almost £10 million in new and improved facilities and has gained a reputation for academic excellence.
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QM offers a broad academic curriculum, taught by committed subject specialists.
We encourage girls to set themselves high standards and
become independent learners.
• Academic Principles
• Academic Results
• Curriculum Overview
• English
• Mathematics
• Sciences
• Modern Languages
• Humanities
• Art & Technology
• Performing Arts
• Physical Education
• Extension
• Support
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Our central philosophy for the education we provide is to:
• Make learning irresistible
• Provide all girls with a desire for Learning for Life
• Promote intellectual risk taking
• Teach with clarity, authority and good humour
• Develop self awareness in all our girls
• Celebrate success in all fields
It is our purpose to train fulfilled and happy learners, with an awareness of social and environmental issues. We also hope to promote a healthy desire for general knowledge and generate discussion and debate on Current Affairs. In short, we want to sustain a community fostering independent thought and collective responsibility.
We aim to provide for each student as an individual. We consider their personal welfare above everything else and our academic provision is in tune with the ‘Every Child Matters’ philosophy, namely that QM girls should:
• Be healthy
• Stay safe
• Enjoy and achieve
• Make a positive contribution
• Achieve economic well-being
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A Level Results
2009 Queen Margaret’s School A Level Results for Year UVI
We are very pleased for the girls receiving their A Level results this year. The results were, on the whole, in line with predictions and 20 girls (out of a total of 64 candidates) achieved grade A in all their subjects. Almost all girls achieved the threshold requirements to secure places on their first choice university course and all girls are in a position to take up places in higher education.
GCSE Examination Results
2009 Queen Margaret’s School GCSE Examination Results for Year V
The GCSE results this year are very much in line with predictions and represent great achievement across a large range of subjects. It is worth noting that 14 girls (out of a cohort of 59) achieved a full string of A*/A grades. All girls achieved the threshold of 5A*-C grades (including English and Mathematics), giving them a wealth of future options.
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At Queen Margaret’s girls study a wide range of subjects. We believe that this breadth of education is essential if wise and informed choices are to be made for GCSEs and beyond. It does mean that the students are very busy and academic organisation is central to success. Tutors help by monitoring the workloads of their tutees and giving advice on organisation.
The following terminology is used throughout the curriculum:
Lower School – Years I, II and III (National Curriculum Years 7, 8 and 9
GCSE Years – Years IV and V (National Curriculum Years 10 and 11)
Sixth Form – LVI and UVI (National Curriculum Years 12 and 13)
Years 7 – 9
In the Lower School girls follow a broad curriculum, which becomes more focused in Year III as they are guided to a balanced range of subjects for GCSE study. Departments do not confine themselves to the content of the National Curriculum but tailor their courses to the needs and abilities of the girls in ways that will stimulate, challenge and excite young minds. In Years I and II girls also participate in a range of co-curricular activities during the last hour of the school day.
Years 10 – 11
During the GCSE years twenty-four subjects are offered. All girls study English Language, English Literature, Mathematics, Science (either the double award course or the three separate sciences) and a modern foreign language. In addition, most girls opt to study four other subjects. Once girls have made their GCSE selections, the timetable is developed around their chosen subjects.
Years 12 – 13
In the Sixth Form twenty-seven subjects are offered to AS and A2 level. Guided by their tutors girls select A level subjects and once again a timetable is built around their choices. At AS level most girls opt to study four or five subjects, reducing to three or four at A2 level.
Extension
ICT skills are taught in dedicated lessons at all levels and further developed as appropriate in individual academic subjects. Careers and Higher Education Guidance, Study Skills and Personal, Social and Health Education programmes also form part of the curriculum. Girls are also exposed to current affairs and their general knowledge, problem solving and critical thinking skills are built upon through Academic Extension lessons.
Sport
Participation and excellence in Sport are essential parts of school life. Girls in all years have some form of timetabled physical activity on most days as well as numerous opportunities to represent the school across a range of sports.
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Above all, QM is a community where girls live, learn and grow together.
Pastoral care is a great strength of the school, under the leadership of the
Deputy Headmistress, Mrs Jane King.
• School Community
• Chaplaincy
• Medical Centre
• Boarding and Day
• House System
• Boarding Houses
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Education, especially boarding school education, is a partnership between parents and the school, and while we expect to earn the trust and confidence of parents to educate their daughters in the way we think best, we welcome parental involvement and participation at all levels. In addition to the formal annual meetings between staff and parents, the staff are pleased to respond to queries or concerns by e-mail, telephone or letter.
Queen Margaret's is a busy school with a full programme of sporting activities as well as frequent concerts, performances and other similar events at which parental support is always welcome.
The Housemistresses are usually the first point of contact, but there is a wide network of pastoral support for all girls, whether they are in need of formal advice or just a sympathetic ear and a cup of something. For academic support and guidance, each girl has a Form Tutor and a Year Head who meet regularly with the girls' Housemistresses and any serious matters affecting an individual girl's progress or welfare can then be referred to the Deputy Head.
All of this contributes to our ability to allow the girls to grow up gradually from eleven to eighteen with carefully graduated, but constantly reviewed, privileges and responsibilities. By this time they will have forged friendships which will last for a lifetime and they will move on as happy, relaxed and confident young women.
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The Chaplain is resident and supervises all aspects of worship, which is regular, meaningful and firmly rooted in the Anglican tradition. Girls from other denominations are very welcome at all the school services and, in addition, Roman Catholics attend Mass each week at nearby Thicket Priory.
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The school's Medical Centre is located in Cloisters and has three qualified resident nursing sisters who provide 24 hour nursing cover during term time. They work in close liaison with Housemistresses. The sisters hold three surgeries daily and deal with emergencies as they arise. The school medical officer, Dr Sarah Butlin holds surgeries at school on Monday and Friday. Dr Butlin and her colleagues at the Escrick surgery will also see students by appointment at the Escrick GP surgery.
QM also employs Sue Burton, a trained counsellor who has sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The girls can speak in confidence to her about any issue.
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The majority of girls at QM are full boarders, taking advantage of the rich opportunities open to them outside the classroom during evenings and weekends.
Day girls are very welcome at the school. They are encouraged to participate in as many of these activities as they would like to and may join us for breakfast each day and stay for their evening meal by prior arrangement. They will also be allocated a space in a dormitory where they may choose to stay overnight occasionally and can keep belongings, as well as appropriate space for private study.
The focal point for all girls is the Year Group common room where they meet up to relax at breaks, lunchtimes and after school.
Housemistresses, Year Heads and tutors work closely together to review girls’ progress and ensure they are happy and settled in all areas of school life.
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Although girls live in 'horizontal' year groups, they are all assigned to one of six 'vertical' Houses: QM Hall, Pitlochry, St Aidan’s, Duncan, Garry and School. These enable different year groups to mix and get to know one another are the focus for inter-House competition in sport, games, music, drama and many other aspects of school life.
House Captains and other prefects, drawn from the Upper Sixth, are supported in their final term by Lower Sixth prefects.
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Girls live in Year Groups, each supervised by two Housemistresses. Dormitories are informal and accommodate between two and eight girls according to the size of the rooms and the age of the girls.
Year I girls live in Red House where the comforts of a (very) large family house with its own gardens and play areas provide the ideal setting for those who have not boarded before.
Girls in Years II - IV live in the main school building where each Year Group has its own dormitories, common rooms and kitchen. Year V girls live in Winifred Holtby House, a purpose built boarding house opened in 2004, where girls, in the first of their public examination years, have separate dormitories and study areas.
Lower Sixth girls live in another purpose built boarding house, Cloisters, after which, as the Upper Sixth, they move on to the Sixth Form Cottages where each girl has a single study bedroom.
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The main objective of the Association is to provide a bond of friendship between former members of the School and to continue the School's traditions.
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The main objective of the Association is to provide a bond of friendship between former members of the School and to continue the School's traditions.
• Academic Results
• Trips and Expeditions
• Visiting Experts
• Weekend Activities
• Clubs and Societies
• Duke of Edinburgh Award
• Prince's Trust
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A Level Results
2009 Queen Margaret’s School A Level Results for Year UVI
We are very pleased for the girls receiving their A Level results this year. The results were, on the whole, in line with predictions and 20 girls (out of a total of 64 candidates) achieved grade A in all their subjects. Almost all girls achieved the threshold requirements to secure places on their first choice university course and all girls are in a position to take up places in higher education.
GCSE Examination Results
2009 Queen Margaret’s School GCSE Examination Results for Year V
The GCSE results this year are very much in line with predictions and represent great achievement across a large range of subjects. It is worth noting that 14 girls (out of a cohort of 59) achieved a full string of A*/A grades. All girls achieved the threshold of 5A*-C grades (including English and Mathematics), giving them a wealth of future options.
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QM’s extensive programme of trips and expeditions opens up opportunities for girls to learn new skills, experience different cultures and enhance their learning – as well as having fun!
Recent trips have included:
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The following trips and expeditions are planned for 2009-10:
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11th November 2009
Interior Designer turned entrepreneur Cath Kidston will be visiting QM to talk to girls about running a business and her own rise to success.
4th December 2009
Dr Craig Taylor from the University of York’s History Department will give a lecture on Joan of Arc to coincide with our senior production, “Saint Joan”.
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QM girls enjoy a broad range of activities at weekends both within the school grounds and further afield.
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A number of different clubs and societies exist in school – some run by staff, others by girls.
Amnesty International
The Queen Margaret's Amnesty International group is officially attached to Amnesty International UK, a non-political organization which provides support for all activities. It is a vibrant society which adds to the girls' education by exploring issues of human rights that are not necessarily part of the normal curriculum. We have campaigned recently on Conflict Diamonds, the Arms Trade, Violence Against Women, Child Soldiers and issues surrounding terrorism and its impact on society to name but a few. We have a variety of activities which range from letter writing to raising awareness throughout the school, especially during 'Protect the Human Week' when we run assemblies and have displays in the main school. Girls are free to choose their own campaigns and are encouraged to really think about challenging issues. The group also works with the Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme as many have chosen to use Amnesty for the Service component of the Award.
Science Café
Modern Studies Society
Film Club (Sixth Form)
French & Spanish Cine Clubs
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The Duke of Edinburgh Award is available to girls who wish to participate at both Bronze and Gold levels. The Bronze Award is normally undertaken during Year IV and the Gold Award during the sixth form.
Both levels of the Award require girls to undertake activities including a physical recreation, a community service, a practice and a full expedition and to demonstrate a qualifying skill. At Gold level, girls have to undertake a residential project. At QM, girls have the opportunity to under take a school arranged horse riding expedition in place of the more usual walking venture for their Gold Level Award.
All the activities girls undertake for the Award must be voluntary, unpaid and involve the girls giving up their free time to participate. Many of the extra-curricular activities available at QM qualify for the Award.
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QMPT is the Queen Margaret's Prince's Trust Challenge. Participating girls will be given the challenge of raising a minimum of £500 for The Prince's Trust. A group of 8 to 10 girls will form a 'company' in which each girl will be given a specific role. Funds will be raised by selling products/services within the school. The activity will give the girls an insight into running a business and in addition they will gain experience of a variety of management roles. The QMPT group will meet formally each week and be guided by business advisers and a link teacher. The group has to research and choose a product(s), analyse its market, promote and trade the product(s) and finally wind-up the company.
The funds raised will be allocated by the Prince's Trust to help young people in Yorkshire, just £500 can help a young person set up and start his/her own business.
The activity, which has to be completed over one term, requires commitment and dedication but is rewarding for those who become involved.
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Essential information about life at QM.
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QM is fortunate to have a stunning purpose built theatre in which to stage highly professional productions.
There is a full-scale, whole school production towards the end of the autumn term. Entry is by competitive audition open to all girls in the school. The production is staffed and produced by a team of girls, working under the guidance of the theatre technician. The production normally runs for 3 to 4 performances and is open to members of the public as well as the whole school community.
Past productions have included ‘Anything Goes’ (2008) 'A Christmas Carol' (2007), 'The Threepenny Opera' (2006), 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'(2005), 'She Stoops To Conquer'(2004), 'Les Miserables'(2003), 'As You Like It'(2002) and 'Kiss Me Kate'(2001). In December 2009 we will be staging “St Joan”.
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Music plays a central role in life at QM. A large team
of visiting teachers give individual lessons in a wide
range of instruments and girls can join one of the many
different ensembles from beginner to advanced level.
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Sport is very important at QM. Our outstanding facilities and broad range of sports and activities ensure that every girl can participate whatever her level - from enthusiastic beginner to representative of her country.
• Sports Results
• Winter Sports
• Summer Sports
• Racquet Sports
• Individual & Fitness
• Other Team Sports
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Click here for the latest Sports Results
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Cross Country
Cross-Country is a discipline which builds stamina and strength. Girls are encouraged to take an active interest in their fitness levels and there are occasional cross-country runs in the autumn and spring terms.
A popular running club meets once a week for training. There are teams for every age group from U12 to seniors and QM enters teams and individuals for the following competitions:
York and District Athletics Association Cup Competition (U16, U14, U12, Seniors)
Schools Athletics Association County Championships (U17, U15, U13)
Lacrosse
Lacrosse is one of the three major games played during the autumn and spring terms. It is a compulsory part of the curriculum for girls for Years I -IV and can be continued as an option in Years V and VI. The fixture list includes matches against both schools and clubs. There are also inter-house matches for all year groups.
QM enters the following tournaments and competitions:
Berkhamsted 8-a-side festival Senior 1st, 2nd, and U15
Berkhamsted 8-a-side festival U14 and U13
Northern Schools Tournament Seniors, U15, U14, U13 and U12
QMS Christmas Invitational Tournament Senior 1st and 2nd
Indoor 7-a-side Tournament Seniors
Scottish Schools Tournament Seniors 1st and 2nd
National Schools Tournament Seniors 1st 2nd and U15
Girls who are of a high enough standard are encouraged to attend Yorkshire County Trials and the North of England trials.
In the 2004/05, season ten QM girls represented Yorkshire County Lacrosse; one gained a place in the North of England team and subsequently played for England in the U19 Home Internationals.
Hockey
Hockey is played during the autumn and spring terms. It is a compulsory part of the curriculum for girls in Years I to IV and can be continued as an option in Years V and VI. There is an extensive fixtures list which includes weekday fixtures against local schools as well as matches against other independent and state schools on Saturday afternoons. There are also inter-house matches for all year groups.
The school also enters teams in the following competitions:
National Schools Competition at U18, U16 and U14
York & District Tournaments at U18, U16, U15, U14, U13 and U12 (8 a side)
Girls who are of a high enough standard are encouraged to attend District and County Trials and development coaching sessions.
In Years I-IV girls have one hour of hockey in their timetables and in Years V-UVI two hours. Evening training sessions are arranged during the week.
QM girls of various ages regularly represented York & District and North Yorkshire and some of our better players have represented the North of England. In recent years a number girls have played at International level.
Netball
Netball is played during the autumn and spring terms. It is a compulsory part of the curriculum for girls in Years I-IV and can be continued as an option from Year V upwards. There are four senior teams, two U15 teams, three U14 teams, three U13 teams and three Under 12 teams. An extensive fixture list includes weekday matches against local schools as well as matches against other independent schools on Saturday afternoons. All year groups play inter-house matches
QM enters the following tournaments and competitions:
U19, U16 and 14 National Schools Competition
U15, U13 and U12 York and District Tournaments
U13 A + B and U12 A + B Casterton Invitational Tournament
Girls who are of a high enough standard are encouraged to attend the Yorkshire County Trials, the York and District Area Trials and associated training sessions.
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Athletics
During the Summer term girls can participate in most athletic disciplines including high jump, long jump, shot, discus, javelin, 100m, 200m, 800m, 1500m and hurdles. There are teams for every age group. The extensive fixture list includes both boarding and local day schools and in addition the school enters individuals and teams for local, regional and national competitions including: -
York and District Athletics U14, U13 and U12
English Schools Athletics Association Cup Competition U15, U13
York and District Schools Athletics Association Trials
North Yorkshire Schools Athletics Association County Championships U19,U17 and U15
Independent Schools Athletics Championships U15 and U12
Independent U13 Schools Athletics and Tug of War
Athletics is a compulsory element of the curriculum for Years I-IV and may be continued as an option in Years V and VI. There is also a thriving athletics club which meets once a week during the summer term. The Sports Day competition takes place at the end of the summer term where all lower school and over seventy five percent of the upper school participate. It includes all major athletic disciplines as well as walking, tug of war and a unique relay competition between teams of twenty four girls.
Rounders
Rounders is played during the summer term. It is a compulsory part of the curriculum for girls in Years I-IV and can be continued as an option in Years V and VI. A full fixture list includes mid-week matches against local schools and matches against other independent schools on Saturday afternoons. There are inter-house matches for all girls.
The school enters the Joint Educational Trust U13 National Rounders Competition.
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Badminton
Badminton is an increasingly popular sport and is included in the Year III timetable. It is particularly popular among fifth and sixth form girls for whom it is offered as an option. Courts are available to use at lunchtime and in the evening.
Tennis
Tennis is principally played during the summer term though many girls play throughout the year. It is a compulsory part of the curriculum for Years I-IV and can be continued as an option in Years V and VI.
An extensive fixtures list includes weekday matches against local schools and matches against independent schools on Saturday afternoons. There are inter-house matches for all year groups.
QM enters the following tournaments and competitions:
U18 Aberdare Cup
U17 County Mixed Tournament
Senior Students Nestlé Tennis Tournament
U13 Nestlé Tennis Tournament
U15, U13 and U12 North Yorkshire School Girls Doubles Tournament
There is squad training throughout the year and in addition, girls are offered a choice of private or group coaching with external coaches. This extra-curricular programme is offered all year round and is popular with girls of all age groups and abilities.
Squash
Squash is a popular social and team sport at QM. Girls are encouraged to try the sport through lessons and individual coaching with the squash coach. A squash club meets once a week. The school has regular fixtures against other girls and boys schools and clubs in the area.
There are also very popular inter-house matches at junior (Years I and II), colts (Years III and IV) and senior levels Years V and VI).
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Aerobics
Aerobics, an option for Years V and VI, is very popular as both a recreational and fitness activity. Girls in Year I and II have the opportunity to participate in aerobics in their activities.
Fencing
Fencing is offered as an evening activity and is led by a qualified coach. It is open to all girls and both epee and foil techniques are taught. Girls compete against local schools and in the past a number of girls have represented England.rogramme.
Fitness Suite
The school has a fitness suite available for girls in the sixth form. Girls, who must follow a compulsory induction course, can use the fitness suite during the day, in the evening and at weekends.
Golf
The school has its own nine-hole golf course that girls can use during evenings and weekends. In summer term, girls may have lessons with a local golf professional.
Riding
QM has a riding school on the campus. Lessons are available during the school day, in activity sessions, in the evening and at weekends. The school offers livery to girls' ponies while they are at QM.
Rowing
Rowing is taught as part of the Years V and VI games programme when there is sufficient interest. A rowing machine is available in the senior fitness suite. Girls are to able train on the River Ouse at the York City Rowing Club.
Swimming
Girls swim in the autumn and spring terms. It is a compulsory part of the curriculum for girls in Years I-III.
In addition to learning the different strokes, girls are taught survival skills, synchronized swimming and water polo. There are swimming teams for every age group from U12 to senior. There is an extensive fixtures list which includes weekday galas against other independent schools. There is also an inter-house competition for all age groups.
QM enters the following tournaments and competitions:
• English Schools Swimming Association Secondary Schools Relays
• Northern HMC John Parry Relays
The swimming club meets for team training twice a week all year round. The swimming pool is open for recreational swimming in the evenings and at weekends.
Lifesaving is a popular option in the senior school with girls working towards RLSS Bronze Medallion and Life Support Qualifications.
Trampolining
Trampolining is an increasingly popular sport and is taught in gymnastics in Years I, II and III and is an option in Years V and VI. A trampolining club exists for girls from all years and meets on a weekly basis.
Gymnastics
Gymnastics is part of the PE curriculum in Years I, II and III. A gymnastics club, which meets once a week, is open to both juniors and seniors and is run by a qualified gymnastics coach.
Dance
The Dance Department follows the syllabuses of the Royal Academy of Dance, the Cecchetti Society for Ballet and the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance for Modern and Tap.
Girls are encouraged to take the examinations, held in school twice a year, but these are not compulsory.
The primary objective is that girls should enjoy dancing and have the opportunity to experience different dance styles. Girls may also attend the popular weekly workshops in Jazz and Hip-Hop.
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Basketball
Basketball is a very popular social option in Years IV-UVI. Some inter-year matches may be played.
Waterpolo
Waterpolo is also played within school.
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Important information for parents and guardians who are interested in sending their daughters to QM.
QM is a thriving school committed to ongoing development and sustainability and outreach with the local community.
• Visiting QM
• Fees
• Open Days
• Community Links
• Buildings
• News Archive
• School Magazine
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The best way to experience life at QM is to come and visit the school. We would be delighted to welcome you to one of our forthcoming Open Days or for an individual visit. Please telephone Mrs Jackie Hallewell the Admissions Secretary on 01904 720072 or email admissions@queenmargaretsschool.com to arrange your visit.
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TERMLY FEES - September 2009 (paid in advance)
Boarders/Weekly Boarders £7,744
Day Girls £4,907 (£35.00 - overnight stays)
Day Girls may arrange occasional overnight stays.
Discount is given to each daughter for the period when two or more sisters are in the school at the same time. 2.5% will be given to each of two sisters, 5% to each of three sisters and 7.5% to each of four sisters.
Fees must be paid before the start of the term. Any unpaid fees will be subject to an interest charge of 3% above the Yorkshire Bank PLC Basic Rate.
OPTIONAL EXTRA SUBJECTS - September 2009 (paid in arrears)
A full term's notice in writing is required to discontinue an extra subject.
Music
Instrument or singing lessons (40 minutes) £205.00 per term
Instrument or singing lessons (60 minutes) £282.00 per term
Instrument Hire £35.00 per term
City & Guilds
Professional Cookery lessons £200.00 per term
(cost of ingredients is extra)
Riding £195.00 per term
Ballet, Tap, Modern Dance
Solo (45 minutes) £164.00 per term
In a pair (45 minutes) £111.00 per term
In a group (45 minutes) £80.00 per term
Dance Workshops £40.00 per term
Tennis/Squash
Individual £24.00 per hour
In a pair £17.00 per hour
In a group £13.00 per hour
Fencing £9.50 per session
Golf £10.00 per hour
Sports Clubs £40.00 per term
There is a termly subscription of £4.00 to the Parents’ & Friends’ Association.
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For further information please call 01904 728261 or email admissions@queenmargarets.com
Queen Margaret's School, Escrick Park, York YO19 6EU
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The school has strong links with the local community, primary schools, businesses and charities.
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The school is committed to the ongoing development of its facilities. During the summer of 2009, the Year III study areas have been enhanced and a new IT room has been equipped. Work has also been undertaken in the Main Building to restore the Winter Garden as a meeting and function room, conveniently close to refurbished offices for the marketing & admissions department.
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Click here to visit the News Archive.
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The Margaretian is published annually in the Autumn and provides a lasting record of the previous academic year. Please click on the links below to read edited highlights from recent years. If you would like to obtain a copy of a particular magazine, please contact the school office on 01904 728261.
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Essential information about life at QM.
• Fees
• Governors List
• Inspection Report
• Parents and Friends
• Plan of Day
• Positions of Responsibility
• School Policies
• Staff List
• Staff Vacancies
• Term Dates
• Uniform
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TERMLY FEES - September 2009 (paid in advance)
Boarders/Weekly Boarders £7,744
Day Girls £4,907 (£35.00 - overnight stays)
Day Girls may arrange occasional overnight stays.
Discount is given to each daughter for the period when two or more sisters are in the school at the same time. 2.5% will be given to each of two sisters, 5% to each of three sisters and 7.5% to each of four sisters.
Fees must be paid before the start of the term. Any unpaid fees will be subject to an interest charge of 3% above the Yorkshire Bank PLC Basic Rate.
OPTIONAL EXTRA SUBJECTS - September 2009 (paid in arrears)
A full term's notice in writing is required to discontinue an extra subject.
Music
Instrument or singing lessons (40 minutes) £205.00 per term
Instrument or singing lessons (60 minutes) £282.00 per term
Instrument Hire £35.00 per term
City & Guilds
Professional Cookery lessons £200.00 per term
(cost of ingredients is extra)
Riding £195.00 per term
Ballet, Tap, Modern Dance
Solo (45 minutes) £164.00 per term
In a pair (45 minutes) £111.00 per term
In a group (45 minutes) £80.00 per term
Dance Workshops £40.00 per term
Tennis/Squash
Individual £24.00 per hour
In a pair £17.00 per hour
In a group £13.00 per hour
Fencing £9.50 per session
Golf £10.00 per hour
Sports Clubs £40.00 per term
There is a termly subscription of £4.00 to the Parents’ & Friends’ Association.
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Chairman
The Hon. Mrs Justice Eleanor King, DBE
Executive Governors
Sir James Crosby
Mr Charles Forbes Adam
Mr Joseph Horsley
Mrs Gwyn Shepherd
Mr David Sheppard
Governors
Major General Michael Charlton-Weedy
Mrs Melanie Gooder
Mr Richard Hudson
Mr Stephen Kettlewell
Ms Victoria Mather
Mrs Ann Shelton
Mr Ian Small
Mr Daniel Ward
Company Secretary & Clerk to the Governors
Mr Michael Oakley
School Solicitors
Messrs Addleshaw Goddard
Messrs Crombie Wilkinson
School Auditor
Mr S Simpson, (Director, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP)
Governors may be contacted via the School, using the main School address
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As a member of the Girls Schools' Association, (www.gsa.uk.com) one of the constituent associations of the Independent Schools Council,(www.isc.co.uk) Queen Margaret's is inspected by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (www.isi.net)
Inspections take place every six years and QM was most recently inspected in May 2005.
To view the full report, please click here.
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The PFA
The PFA is an independent body whose principal role is to provide a channel of communication between the parents and the school. Its members are the parents or guardians of girls currently at Queen Margaret's together with representatives from the Old Margaretians and others well disposed towards the school.
Through the PFA Year Representatives, parents may raise any issue be it academic, pastoral, sports related or extra-curricular for consideration by the school.
The Association also plays an important role by calling on the wide and varied resources of the parents in support of the schools objectives. Initiatives have included the provision of guest lectures, work based opportunities for girls and support for a range of educational, cultural and social events.
Committee members can be contacted at any time to communicate your issues and ideas to the school - please ring or email, click here for contacts.
Initiatives
Good Contacts
The school is constantly striving to broaden the girls' outlook and perspective on life and to this end welcomes visiting speakers. Many parents will doubtless have contacts to enable them to bring inspirational speakers or interesting people to talk to the girls and parents. If you have such a contact, or would like to suggest a topic,
please get in touch with Nick Brown, contact details above.
Communications
If you feel that communications within the parent body can be improved in some way, please pass on you thoughts to a member
of the committee.
Events
Similarly, the committee would be please to hear any suggestions you may have concerning events relevant to the girls and their parents, either school based or elsewhere in the country.
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Monday – Friday
07:00 – 08:00 Breakfast
08:20 – 08:30 Year Group Meetings and Form Registration
08:30 – 09:00 Assembly/Chapel
09:00 – 10:00 Periods 1 & 2
10:00 – 11:00 Periods 3 & 4
11:00 – 11:20 Break
11:20 – 12:20 Periods 5 & 6
12:20 – 13:20 Period 7 & 8
13:20 – 13:55 Lunch
13:55 – 14:05 Form Registration
14:05 – 15:05 Periods 9 & 10
15:05 – 16:05 Period 11 & 12
16:05 – 16:25 Break
16:25 – 17:25 Period 13 & 14
17:30 – 18:30 Prep/Private Study/Clubs/Societies/Activities/Squads
18:00 – 19:00 Supper/ Reading Siesta
19:00 – 21:00 Prep/Private Study/Clubs/Societies/Activities/Squads
20:45 – 23:00 Lights out
Saturday
07:45 – 08:10 Breakfast
08:10 – 08:30 Year Group Meeting
08:30 – 08:40 Form Registration
08:40 – 09:40 Period 1 & 2
09:40 – 10:40 Period 3 & 4
10:40 – 11:00 Break
11:00 – 12:00 Period 5 & 6
12:00 – 13:00 Lunch
14:00 – 18:00 Activities/Matches/Private Study/Free Time
15:30 – 16:00 Afternoon Tea in Common Rooms
18:00 – 19:00 Supper
21:00 – 23:30 Lights out
Sunday
08:30 – 09:20 Breakfast
09:25 – 09:40 Year Group Meetings
09:45 – 10:45 Chapel
09:00 – 13:00 Activities/Trips/Private Study/Free Time
13:00 – 14:00 Lunch
14:00 – 17:30 Activities/Trips/Private Study/Free Time
17:30 – 18:30 Supper
19:00 – 20:00 Chapel/Concerts
21:00 – 23:30 Lights out
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The school has a range of policies covering many aspects of school life. Policies are subject to regular review and when it is felt necessary, an additional policy may be introduced.
The titles of current policies are listed below.
• Anti-Bullying Policy
• Assessment, Recording and Reporting Policy
• Behaviour and Discipline Policy*
• Child Protection Policy
• Data Protection and Retention Policy*
• Internet Policy*
• Medical Policy
• Sex Education Policy
• Substance Abuse Policy
* These policies are currently under review
Copies of policies are available on request.
Each September all girls are give a copy of the 'Red Book' which includes a list of school rules that all must follow.
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Click here for Full staff list
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Click here for staff vacancies
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