Our Ref: MLC/DMB 3 March 2016
Dear Parent/Guardian
A LEVEL BIOLOGY FIELD COURSE AT CALSHOT ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES CENTRE 27 June – 30 JUNE 2016
The A Level Biology Field Course to study ecology and the environment has been arranged this year for the days 27 June – 30 June inclusive. All A Level biology students are strongly recommended to attend, as the course is beneficial both academically and for reasons of personal development, and it will cover a significant section of the A Level Biology specifications.
The course and costs will include:-
- Field work experience in the New Forest (heathland and streams) and on the Solent coastline, to meet exam board Core Practical requirements. This is led by professional field centre staff, and uses some specialist equipment.
- Follow up to practical work in the evenings, led by field centre staff and Oaklands staff. This includes detailed data handling and statistical analysis.
- Trawling from a boat in Southampton Water and the examination of the catch afterwards (this is weather permitting).
- Opportunities to use the activity leisure facilities. This includes use of a trained instructor on the first evening for an activity such as climbing or cycling on the velodrome.
- Full board, including all meals, from Monday lunchtime to Thursday lunchtime.
- All transport to and from the centre, and during the course.
- An opportunity for the group to bond, both socially and through teamwork.
There is no need for any student to attend the field course if they are absolutely certain that they will not be continuing with the full A Level Biology course. However, it may be difficult for them to meet the full A Level Biology requirements if they change their mind in September.
The total cost of the trip is £315.00. A non-refundable deposit of £100.00 is due immediately, a second payment of £115.00 by 15 April, followed by one final payment of £100.00 by 6 May. Full payment may be made earlier if preferred. Please do not send post-dated cheques. Payments and accompanying paperwork must be handed in on or before the deadline date outlined to avoid jeopardising your child’s place on
the trip/activity. Should your child withdraw from the activity please be aware that deposits are non-refundable, and any further payments can only be refunded if the place can be filled by another student on a waiting list, or if the withdrawal is for an insurable reason. If there are significant changes to the cost of the trip, these may have to be passed on to the student. Be assured that we will try to keep such costs to a minimum.
Those families who previously qualified for pupil premium funding under the free school meal criteria at any time in the last six years, will be eligible to receive a subsidy towards the cost of the trip. If you would like to apply for a subsidy for this trip please indicate on the attached consent form. No student will be omitted from the activity if his/her parents are unable to contribute. However, I must make it equally clear that in accordance with the Governors’ statement this activity may not take place if parents are reluctant to support it with their contributions full or in part.
Any families who are experiencing financial hardship are asked to contact Mrs B Ludlam, Director of Sixth Form Learning, as other support may be available.
We would advise that students do not to take valuables out on school activities, however, should they be taken parents should ensure personal possessions are adequately insured.
Please complete and return the attached proforma and monies to the Finance Office.
Yours sincerely
M. Charig
Activity Co-ordinator
PLEASE RETURN TO THE FINANCE OFFICE
A LEVEL BIOLOGY FIELD COURSE AT CALSHOT ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES CENTRE 27 - 30 June 2016
Student Name: …………………………………………………….. Form: ………………..
I give permission for my son / daughter to attend the A Level Biology Field Course at Calshot Environmental Studies Centre from June 27 – 30, 2016.
He/she is in good health and I consent to him/her taking part in the programme detailed in your letter.
I enclose a deposit of £100
I will pay online
I wish to apply for Pupil Premium
I wish to apply for the 16 – 19 bursary fund.
OR (please delete as appropriate)
My son/daughter will not be able to attend the A Level Biology Field Course even though they are likely to continue to do A Level Biology next year.
OR (please delete as appropriate)
My son /daughter will not be continuing the full A Level Biology course in September and therefore will not be attending the field course.
I understand and accept that it is my responsibility to update the school should there be any changes to the medical information about my child. Please communicate these to Mrs Brettell, Business Support Team Leader.
Signed:……………………………………………… Person with parental responsibility
Date…………………………………………………