News

It is normal for teenagers to want to spend more time with their friends and to behave as if they are embarrassed by their parents, especially when in public places. As children reach puberty they will often experience mood swings and change their taste in music, clothes, food and friends. They will also start to develop their own set of values and beliefs and maybe question or reject their parent's opinions. Communication shutdown, one-word answers and grunts are also common during adolescence. Many teens cope with all the changes they are going through by using withdrawn behaviour, for example, always being away from home, or when at home staying in their room. When you feel your teenager is being disrespectful, challenging, uncooperative or abusive it can be difficult to stop things from escalating into a full-blown row. Feeling provoked and annoyed, many parents resort to coaxing, retaliating with threats or feeling overwhelmed and giving in. When things start to get heated try your best to remain calm. The next time you feel things are spiralling out of control press the pause button and ask yourself the following questions. How do I want to feel when this situation is over? How do I want my teenager to feel? What's important to me, winning the battle or my relationship with my child? What will happen if things continue to escalate? Is what I am doing working for me? How else can I manage this situation? Teenagers like to know what their boundaries are and it is helpful to have clear house rules that everyone understands and agrees with. If you have clear rules already, does your teenager know what the consequences are for breaking them? Try to discuss the house rules and consequences when you are calm, as in the heat of the moment the punishment might not always fit the crime. Getting teenagers to talk openly about how they are feeling can be hard. You may need to set aside time to get to know your developing teenager, what is important to them, what pressures are they facing, and how they are feeling? Building two-way communication enables you and your teenager to talk about tough issues and possible solutions. Offer your child reassurance that you only want to help them because you love them and want the best for them. The important thing to remember is that your son or daughter is no longer a child, but is still learning how to be an adult. This means that mood and behaviour will be changeable and they will behave in an adult-like way sometimes and child-like at other times. The key thing to remember is that this is all part of your child learning how to become a responsible adult who is capable of looking after them self. If you would like to discuss a concern that you may have contact the Parents Helpline Freephone on 0808 801 0722. For further information on the range of services which Parents Advice Centre offers, including Parenting UR Teen courses log onto: www.parentsadvicecentre.org ]]> http://www.belfastgms.org/school-life/news/2010/03/parenting_your_teen.php http://www.belfastgms.org/school-life/news/2010/03/parenting_your_teen.php Parent Advice Centre Mon, 01 Mar 2010 12:11:40 +0000 Model Medal Winners

In all, two bronze, two silver and two gold medals were awarded. The gold medalists go on to compete in the International Olympiad in South Korea in July, and by securing the runner-up positions Lucy and Mathew are first reserves, should either of the gold medalists withdraw from the competition. So, congratulations on a great achievement; for them, the science department and the school. ]]> http://www.belfastgms.org/school-life/news/2010/02/model_medal_winners.php http://www.belfastgms.org/school-life/news/2010/02/model_medal_winners.php Thu, 11 Feb 2010 09:55:02 +0000 Financial Concerns?

Budgeting is the art of keeping your spending under control, which is perhaps not as simple as it sounds. It is a very useful skill to teach children and will help to make their life that little bit easier in the future. Giving your teenager an allowance is one way to teach them about budgets. Most children receive an allowance of some sort, whether it is based on age, grades received in school or chores performed around the house. If your teenager already receives an allowance or if you are about to set up an allowance system, its important to allow young people to be responsible for managing their own money and to resist subsidising them with additional funds. If an allowance is based on doing certain chores your teenager will work better if they have a specific list of chores to do and a specific time frame in which they need to complete them. Teenagers have a tendency to like expensive things, whether it's a new laptop, gaming system, mobile phone, ipod, or clothes or shoes, the price tags stack up fast. Try to encourage your teenager to save for expensive treats and contribute towards purchasing their desired items. At special occasions, such as birthdays and Christmas, you can help your teenager to learn about the value of money by giving them an allocated amount of money and allowing them to prioritise the items they want within a set budget. Once your teenager has reached sixteen you can also encourage them to get a part-time job and earn some money towards their expenditures. Whether it's completing chores, managing an allowance or finding a part-time job it's important to praise your teenager when they act responsibly and guide them when they are not. If you are a parent who is feeling overwhelmed or stressed about your financial situation, or have concerns about your child it can help to use outside support to discuss options or help cope emotionally. If you would like to discuss a concern that you may have contact Parents Helpline Freephone on 0808 8010 722 or e-mail info@parentshelpline.org.uk For further information on the range of services which Parents Advice Centre offers, including parenting courses log onto: www.parentsadvicecentre.org ]]> http://www.belfastgms.org/school-life/news/2010/01/financial_concerns.php http://www.belfastgms.org/school-life/news/2010/01/financial_concerns.php Parent Advice Centre Wed, 13 Jan 2010 15:02:21 +0000 Belfast Model School for Girls honoured as digital revolutionary

To win the award, teaching staff had to demonstrate they have successfully placed technology at the heart of both learning and wider school management. By helping to enhance teaching and bringing lessons to life, the school has shown clearly how technology makes a difference, not just in the classroom, but at home within the family, and across other school activities. Belfast Model School for Girls wowed the judges with effective and innovative use of ICT in everything they do. The vast majority (94 per cent) of the pupils achieve GCSE in ICT and all have high levels of skills in the use of ICT which are transferable to other areas of the curriculum. The school also believes that using its learning platform - the website that allows pupils, staff and parents to securely access the school online - places the school at the heart of the community. Stephen Crowne, Chief Executive of Becta, said:

"We believe that integrating technology across the entire curriculum - not just using it in ICT lessons - is essential to higher achievement in schools and it makes lessons and learning more enjoyable and rewarding.

The ICT Excellence Awards are a fantastic way to show just what can be achieved to boost the achievements of young people using technology. It is a great pleasure to reward the hard work of all schools that entered. Belfast Model School for Girls, is a shining example of what can be done. Becta is committed to helping schools achieve similar results so that all learners have the opportunity to get the most from their time at school."

On winning the award, Johnny Graham, Principal at Belfast Model Schools for Girls said:

"We are thrilled to win the ICT Excellence Award and would like to thank everyone who has worked hard to achieve it. It's a real credit to the school staff and an affirmation of the good work they do. We are delighted that the commitment of the whole school to fully embed ICT in the curriculum has been recognised by Becta. It demonstrates the high quality educational experience of the pupils and the work of the staff in sharing good practice within the school and the wider educational community."

The ICT Excellence Awards is an awards scheme open to all schools which aims to identify and reward excellence in Information and Communications Technology (ICT). The awards acknowledge UK schools approaching technology in outstanding or innovative ways. With the event in its fourth year, it is leading the way within the education system and is one of the most important and respected awards in the teaching calendar. ]]> http://www.belfastgms.org/school-life/news/2009/11/belfast_model_school_for_girls.php http://www.belfastgms.org/school-life/news/2009/11/belfast_model_school_for_girls.php Achievements Wed, 25 Nov 2009 14:43:08 +0000 Parental Separation

Many teenagers will find it hard to talk about separation and will express their emotions through their behaviour. It is helpful for parents to encourage their children to talk about feelings and explain that it is completely normal to feel sad, angry or confused about the changes in their family life. It is also normal for the teenager to want to have an input into when and where they spend time with the parent who has moved out. Try to encourage your teenager to ask questions about the things that they feel unsure or worried about and be willing to hear and respond to the same fears over and over. Just because you've explained something once doesn't mean your teenager's fear isn't still there, they may need to express how they feel and hear your explanations again and again. It is important for all children to understand that parental separation is not their fault and that both parents will continue to love them. Continuing support and reassurance will allow your teenager to grieve and eventually adjust to their new circumstances. It will take time for your child to work through and accept the separation, but you should see gradual improvement over time. If you feel things are getting worse rather than better or if you would like to talk to someone in confidence about your concerns then please contact Parents Helpline Freephone on 0808 8010 722 or e-mail info@parentshelpline.org.uk For further information on the range of services which Parents Advice Centre offers, including parenting courses log onto: www.parentsadvicecentre.org ]]> http://www.belfastgms.org/school-life/news/2009/11/parental_separation.php http://www.belfastgms.org/school-life/news/2009/11/parental_separation.php Parent Advice Centre Tue, 03 Nov 2009 14:37:44 +0000 Girls' Model triumphs on the international scene

The Girls' Model was one of only 14 schools in Northern Ireland to be recognised for our international work. It was a wonderful day. Dr Pinkerton was able to chat to colleagues from across the UK and find out more about the work of the British Council across the world. Well done to everyone who helped us to win this prestigious award.]]> http://www.belfastgms.org/school-life/news/2009/10/girls_model_triumphs_on_the_in.php http://www.belfastgms.org/school-life/news/2009/10/girls_model_triumphs_on_the_in.php Wed, 21 Oct 2009 10:28:51 +0000 It takes a brave man to go swimming outdoors in September!

The Quarryman Triathlon took place on 12th September in Co. Meath and Mr MacDermott travelled the 81 miles to compete in the competition. Considering that this is only his second triathlon, Mr MacDermott came in at a very respectable 96th place in a field of 140 competitors. He was very pleased with his overall time of 1 hour 53 minutes and hopes to beat this in next year's competition.

Completing a triathlon is no mean feat and takes great dedication and determination - Mr MacDermott we are extremely proud of you, especially in your efforts to raise a fabulous £630 for Cancer Research UK. When asked what was the most challenging part of the triathlon experience, Mr MacDermott replied "getting in to the wetsuit," so here's hoping you get the hang of it by next year! ]]> http://www.belfastgms.org/school-life/news/2009/10/it_takes_a_brave_man_to_go_swi.php http://www.belfastgms.org/school-life/news/2009/10/it_takes_a_brave_man_to_go_swi.php Achievements Wed, 07 Oct 2009 12:38:52 +0000 Parents' Helpline - Exam Result Advice

Parents Helpline is there for you when things seem too much. We will listen to how you feel and won't judge you. We won't tell you what to do but will try to help you improve the situation. If you would like to discuss a concern you may have contact the Parents Helpline Freephone on 0808 8010 722 or e-mail info@parentshelpline.org.uk For further information on the range of services which Parents Advice Centre offers, including parenting courses, log onto www.parentsadvicecentre.org. ]]> http://www.belfastgms.org/school-life/news/2009/08/parents_helpline.php http://www.belfastgms.org/school-life/news/2009/08/parents_helpline.php Partnerships Tue, 25 Aug 2009 08:25:19 +0000 Back to School information School Timetable Bus Timetable]]> http://www.belfastgms.org/school-life/news/2009/08/back_to_school_information.php http://www.belfastgms.org/school-life/news/2009/08/back_to_school_information.php Tue, 18 Aug 2009 15:18:28 +0000 Top 10 Revision Tips for Parents for parents:

A dedicated quiet space with good natural light or lighting is best for studying, with no distractions. If you have other children who are not studying for exams, make sure that they know the importance of revision time.
Ensure that your daughter has one evening a week away from their studies. It's also important that they take regular breaks during the study periods.
Be around as a 'feeding station' - feed your child lots of healthy food and proper meals - not too many sugary snacks and junk food.
Offer to help with testing or ask if there is something that you can do for them. Reassure them you are concerned about their welfare more than the results.
Know your daughter's revision timetable. Encourage them to tell you about what they are studying. If you know that they are not at their best first thing in the morning, encourage them to rest then and work when they are more lively. They should choose their weakest/sleepiest time of day to be sociable and go out, or watch TV at those times.
Know exactly the date, time and location for each exam and work this into the revision plan. Make sure that they have the correct equipment they need for the exam (calculators, rulers etc). Know what they are not allowed to take in to the exam (mobile phones, MP3 players, iPods etc).
If your daughter has a medical condition, for example diabetes or hayfever, make sure that the school knows about it. There are special considerations for some conditions.
If there is a family crisis, for example divorce or bereavement, again ensure that your daughter's teacher knows about it, since the additional stress can affect your child's exam performance.
Make sure that your child is using the internet/Virtualgms to study and not as a resource to give the appearance of study!
Tell them that they can only try their best and even if they don't do as well as you'd hoped, you still love them just as much.

All pupils have access to an online Revision Centre where they can download and create their own revision planners. There's lots of top tips there too, downloads and useful websites. Please encourage them to organise their revision well in advance of their first exam - it will be worth it in the end! The school exam timetable for years 9-11 can be found on the school calendar.]]> http://www.belfastgms.org/school-life/news/2009/05/top_10_revision_tips_for_paren.php http://www.belfastgms.org/school-life/news/2009/05/top_10_revision_tips_for_paren.php Random Wed, 27 May 2009 20:53:29 +0000 Margaret Ritchie helps Rock Challenge Team

The team not only been working hard to perfect their routine but they have also been busy organising sleepovers and other fund raisers to pay for the trip. Yesterday the coffers were given a very welcome boost when Margaret Ritchie MLA very kindly presented a cheque for £2500. Miss Richie visited the school and spent time talking to some of the performers even taking the time to watch a recording of the winning Belfast performance.

Good luck in Grimsby team!! More Pictures online. ]]> http://www.belfastgms.org/school-life/news/2009/05/rock_challenge_update.php http://www.belfastgms.org/school-life/news/2009/05/rock_challenge_update.php Visitors Wed, 20 May 2009 08:52:37 +0000 Lifelong Learning Thrives at the Girls' Model

Dr Davidson's daughter was attending an ICT night class when Dr Davidson decided she would accompany her. It got quite competitive between the two ladies and in the end both received the top mark of an A*. To commemorate this achievement Dr Davidson received a certificate and small gift at an awards ceremony held by CCEA earlier this month. It just goes to show that it's never too late to try something new. The Belfast Model School for Girls offer a range of adult learning courses as part of our extended school project, please check local press for details. ]]> http://www.belfastgms.org/school-life/news/2009/04/lifelong_learning_thrives_at_t.php http://www.belfastgms.org/school-life/news/2009/04/lifelong_learning_thrives_at_t.php Achievements Wed, 29 Apr 2009 12:51:47 +0000 Short List for SVLT Well done to all the girls who have been short listed for the roles of Student Voice Leadership Team. After the Easter break there will be interviews and voting to see who will be given the head girl roles. All the girls listed below must attend a meeting with Mrs Mairs in the Library on Monday 20 April 09 at 9:30. Helen Beattie Claudia Bojda Julie-Ann Caldwell Laura Frederick Rebecca Hill Carla Johnston Megan McDermott Emma McGlade Jade Spence Erin-Katie Strapp Natasha Walker Amy Whitcroft http://www.belfastgms.org/school-life/news/2009/04/short_list_for_svlt.php http://www.belfastgms.org/school-life/news/2009/04/short_list_for_svlt.php Achievements Fri, 03 Apr 2009 10:22:14 +0000 Girls' Model win Rock Challenge 09

As well as overall winners the Girls' Model also won Best Drama Skills, Best Hair and Makeup, Best Performance Skills and the coveted performer's choice award (voted for by other schools). The judges commented that the overall standard of all the schools entered in this years competition was excellent, making the victory all the more sweet for the girls and staff who worked so hard for many months perfecting the routine. This is a just and deserving reward for the many hours practising after school and at weekends by the pupils and staff. Good luck in Grimsby ]]> http://www.belfastgms.org/school-life/news/2009/03/girls_model_win_rock_challenge.php http://www.belfastgms.org/school-life/news/2009/03/girls_model_win_rock_challenge.php Achievements Mon, 30 Mar 2009 23:27:46 +0000 More from NYC read it here.

Guggenheim Museum

Tuesday brought another clear blue sky and icy north wind; we got up early and after another brisk walk boarded the Uptown tour bus. The Uptown town tour takes in Central Park, many of the most expensive apartments in American, The Guggenheim Museum (and many others), Madonna's old house, The Projects and many other famous New York sights. We had a quick bite of lunch in Juniors (just off Times Square) many of us having the most beautiful cheesecake for desert (one between three and it was still too much).

Twin Towers Memorial Centre

We then hopped on the Downtown tour and got off at New York University to attend the conference. Some of the pupils found this very interesting and the others took advantage of the soft seats and warm temperature to briefly close their eyes. After a few lectures we were back on the Downtown Tour to visit the sight of the Twin Towers. We were all very moved by the memorial centre with many of the pupils leaving messages. It was then back on the bus when I eventually remembered where we had got off and continued round the Downtown tour seeing all the sights of the financial district and China town. After a McDonalds for dinner it was off for some late evening shopping on Times Square.

Top of Empire States Building

On our last day it was an early start with some very rushed bag packing and then off to the Empire State Building. We were very glad to have beaten the crowds as there was literally miles of roping for the queues. The views from the top were spectacular and helped us spot our next shopping target, Macy's. By this stage time was running short so we just spent 2 hours here but I for one was glad of an enclosed space to let the girls shop while I had a nice rest in Starbucks. Many of the girls got to design their own lip gloss here and also receive great make up tips from the Macy's staff.

Tiffany & Co

We then headed straight over (via a few shoe stores) to 5th Avenue for the final push towards America's financial recovery. We started about 30th St and made our way right up to the Tiffany & Co and the Apple Store (nerd heaven!!!!!) at 58th St where we all hopped in Taxis and returned to the Hotel to catch the bus to the Airport. So that's New York covered now the pupils. They were awesome, we couldn't have asked for better behaviour while away. Within 24 hours of landing the airline people, the owner of a Magic/Gift Shop and the staff at TGI Friday had all pulled one of us aside just to say how well behaved the pupils were. Congratulations to all, they represented the Girls Model School so well and made us very proud!!!! See more photos on the Photos page. ]]> http://www.belfastgms.org/school-life/news/2009/03/more_from_nyc.php http://www.belfastgms.org/school-life/news/2009/03/more_from_nyc.php Trips Fri, 27 Mar 2009 14:43:12 +0000