Saint Ambrose College
Prospectus 2015
Welcome
Welcome to Saint Ambrose College.
Prayer of
Saint Ambrose
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 Thompson
Head Master
Painting of ‘Saint Ambrose as a young man’
by Sandro Kopp
Lord teach me to seek thee
And reveal thyself to me
When I seek thee
For I cannot seek thee
Unless thou teach me,
Not find thee except
thou 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.
Edmund Rice
Education
Evangelisation of the modern World
Saint 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 Spiritual
Saint 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 Community
As 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 weak
Particular 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.
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.
Concern for the Whole Person
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”.
Striving for Excellence
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.
The 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.
Edmund Rice Schools encourage each person to use their
talents to the full whether academic, cultural or physical.
Teaching as a Christian Vocation
The 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 Justice
Edmund 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.
Spiritual Life
“And I say to thee, thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my Church.”
Matthew 16:18
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.
Liturgy
Thanks 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 Group
This is a thriving College society which meets weekly to allow boys to develop their spirituality.
Lenten Appeal
At 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 Pilgrimage
The 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.
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.
Former Ambrosian Henry Hall working in Sierra Leone as
part of a staff and student Immersion visit
The Chapel is a place of sanctity and of quiet, for developing our faith in God.
Admissions Policy 2016
Please see the College website for updated information. Thank you.
Behaviour & Discipline
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.
Summary
We 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.
Academic Support &
Pastoral Care
Special Needs
We value each pupil for the talents and gifts they each have.
An academic grammar school with high standards of education for all of its pupils.
In terms of academic results, we expect each boy to perform to the best of his ability.
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.
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.
Parental involvement
The 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.
In order to encourage the best performance from each pupil, we provide homework diaries that are monitored
by both parents and the House Tutor.
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 regular appraisal system operates throughout the College so that parents receive regular reports on the
performance of their son.
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.
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.
Special educational needs may be evident in the child’s behavioural, physical, speech and language, sensory
or learning difficulties.
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.
The responsibility for formal assessment of a child, who, it is thought, may have special educational needs, is
that of the local education authority.
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.
College Uniform
The House System
Enriching the individual within the context of a global Christian Community
Whilst 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.
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 shoes
Socks - charcoal grey/black
Trousers - charcoal grey/black
White shirt (long or short sleeve)
Saint Ambrose tie
Pullover with College design (optional)
Sixth Form may wear a black v-necked uniform pullover and a distinct Sixth Form tie
Blazer - College design with Badge
Rucksack - 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 crest
PE Shorts Navy/White with College crest
Rugby Shorts Royal with College crest
Rugby Jersey Royal Scarlet hoops/house colour with College crest
Games Socks Royal/Scarlet
Polo 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 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.
Saint Ambrose College
Blessed Edmund Rice
Aquinas House
(Blue)
House Leader
Mr Rush
Ignatius House
Newman House
(Green)
(Red)
(Yellow)
House Leader
Mr Aspinwall
House Leader
Mr Cutting
House Leader
Mr Krause
Augustine House
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.’
The School Day:
Boys to be attendance by 8.55am
All items of uniform can be purchased from Monkhouse in store or on-line
www.monkhouse.com
Name tapes can also be purchased and are advisable.
House Period
09:00 - 09:30
Period 1
09:30 - 10:30
Period 2
10:30 - 11:25
Systems Used
Break
11:25 - 11:40
ParentMail 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.
Period 3
11:40 - 12:40
Lunch
12:40 - 13:40
College Website
Period 4
13:40 - 14:40
Period 5
14:40 - 15:35
The College website allows parents to regularly check for news and useful information.
www.st-ambrosecollege.org.uk
Building Features
Internal and External Sports Provision
In 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.
Sports 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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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 floor
This 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 floor
The 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 floor
The second floor houses the library pods, Sixth
Form common room and outdoor balcony alongside 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.
Lunch Time Clubs & Societies
The 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 &
Drama
Currently, 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 School
The 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.
GCSE
From 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 Level
From 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 Activities
The 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.
Mathematics
Computer
Science
‘Mathematics, rightly viewed, possesses not only
truth, but beauty.’
Bertrand Russell
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.
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.
In 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.
GCSE
Advanced Level
Mathematics 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 Activities
Mathematics 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.
percentage
formulae
Mathematics
Digits
At 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.
decimal
Angle ICT
Geometry
Lower School
Lower School
Graph
Algebra
Computer
The 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.
GCSE
At 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 level
Pupils 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.
Destinations
Computer 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.
Religious
Education
Parents 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 School
Boys 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.
GCSE
Religious 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 Level
Religious 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.
Design &
Technology
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 problemsolvers, both as individuals and as part of a team.
Lower School
The 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.
GCSE
At 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 Level
At 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 Activities
A 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 getting
involved in STEM competitions and The British Furniture
Competition to win prizes and certificates.
Destinations
This subject can lead and contribute to careers in
Graphic Design, Product Design, Architecture, Graphic
Communication, Engineering, and Teaching.
Creative Arts
Art
In art, pupils explore a range of media and subjects 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 School
In the Lower School pupils gain broad foundation in
art using a range of two and three dimensional media. Through a series of challenging projects and exercises 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.
GCSE
At 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 Level
A 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 outstanding works of art.
Extra Curricular Activities
Pupils 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.
Destinations
Many 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-
Music
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 School
At 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.
GCSE
At 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 Level
A 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 Tuition
Instrumental tuition is available on a ‘one-toone’ basis from a team of specialist teachers.
Instrumentalists are expected to join the
appropriate extra curricular ensemble.
Extra Curricular Activities
The 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.
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 School
First 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.
GCSE
At 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 Level
Students 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 Activities
The 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.
Destinations
As 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
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 School
Following 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.
GCSE
At 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 Level
The 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 Activities
The 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.
Science
Languages
In 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 School
In 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 Level
Pupils 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 Activities
Pupils 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 School
In 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.
GCSE
At GCSE from 2015 boys will undertake
the new style, terminal Separate Science
qualifications. These will prepare them
for their A level studies.
Advanced Level
A-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 Activities
Pupils 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.
Destinations
The 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.
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 School
Students 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.
GCSE
In 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 Level
AS 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 Activities
Whilst 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-Cise
Trampolining
Volleyball
Swimming
Weight Training
Water Polo
Rowing
TennisAthletics
Table Tennis
Basketball
CricketBoot Camp
Cross Country
Triathlon
Gaelic 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 Ambrosians
Saint 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 Competitions
College 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
GCSE Results 2014
Attendance & Absence
2014-2015
Authorised Absence 3.28%
Unauthorised Absence 0.08%
Destination of Sixth Form Leavers
2012
2013
2014
University
Gap year
Further Study
Employment
Uncertain
97
5
0
1
0
82
12
0
2
0
Total
103
96
86
7
0
1
0
94
Key Stage 3 Results 2014
A Level Results 2014
‘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
Saint Ambrose College
M D Thompson M.A., F.R.S.A.
Head Master
Hale Barns, Altrincham, WA15 0HE.
tel: 0161 980 2711
www.st-ambrosecollege.org.uk
email:office@st-ambrosecollege.org.uk