SCHOOL PROSPECTUS ELSENHAM CHURCH of ENGLAND PRIMARY SCHOOL
Welcome to Elsenham C. of E. Primary School Elsenham School was opened in 1863 to provide education "according to the principles and practices of the Church of England." We continue to foster the School’s link with the church and to value its Christian ethos whilst offering our pupils a range of educational opportunities which reflect the needs of the twenty-first century. At Elsenham School we seek to foster high standards of learning and behaviour in a happy and caring environment, and to promote excellence throughout the school. We aim to provide the best possible staffing, resources and organisation needed to help every child achieve his or her potential. We believe that the education of all children relies on a shared partnership between home and school. Our recent OFSTED report, (June 2008), praised the work of our school and highlighted many strengths such as our culture of open communication with parents. OfSTED went on to say that “Children’s immense enjoyment of school arises from the excellent pastoral care they receive and from an outstanding curriculum”. The full report can be read on the OFSTED website at www.ofsted.gov.uk. We welcome children from all types and levels of faith commitment as well as those with none. Our aim is to provide the best possible education for all our pupils within the context of a caring Christian community. If you are choosing a primary school for your child, we hope this prospectus will give you a good idea of what the school stands for and can offer you and your child. However, there is no substitute for coming to see for yourself, so if you would like to arrange a visit please phone the school office. We look forward to seeing you and your child. Linda Reid Headteacher
Deborah Anderson Chair of Governors
2
Elsenham C of E Primary School Elsenham Telephone: Bishop’s Stortford Fax: Herts CM22 6DD e mail Status and Character:
01279 813198 01279 816783 admin@elsenham.essex.sch.uk
Church of England (Controlled) Primary School, Infant and Junior boys and girls aged 4 -11.
Number of pupils at September 2011: Number intended to admit 2010/2011:
188 30
Headteacher:
Mrs Linda Reid
Teaching staff:
* Mrs Gail Broadbent Mrs Fiona Caton Miss Fiona Cunningham Mrs Terri Donohoe Mrs Jessica Ellis Mr Neil Gladwin Miss Kirsty Reid * Mrs Theresa Smith * Mrs Karen Thompson Mrs Beth Williamson
Teaching Assistants:
Mrs Claire Gunn Mrs Sharon Hirst Miss Gill Pickering Mrs Sue Southgate Ms Deborah Taylor
Business Manager: Finance/General Assistant: Cleaner in Charge: Midday Assistants:
* Mrs Lesley Milne Mrs Sue Duerden Mrs Chris Rodliffe Mrs Louise Elvin Miss Joanne Wells
Our Team of Governors: Chair: Vice Chair: Headteacher: Mr Robert Bayley Mrs Gail Broadbent Mrs Sue Southgate Mr Nick Yeadon
Mrs Chris Rodliffe
Mrs Debbie Anderson Mrs Ruth Lucas Mrs Linda Reid Mrs Chris Bowker Mr Paul Boulter Mr Rocky Stevens
Clerk to the Governors:
Mrs Jackie Sweeting
Local Education Authority:
Essex County Council, Education Department, A Block, County Hall, Chelmsford, Essex CM1 1DT
*
Miss Angela Glynn Miss Catherine Lawrence Mrs Linda Samuel Mrs Rachel Stimpson Mrs Emma Whitehead
Denotes member of Senior Leadership Team
3
Mr Chris Brearley Mr Peter Gallagher Revd. Gary Townsend
Tel.: 0845 7430430
Our Aims, Ethos and Values •
To create a safe, secure and stimulating environment to promote learning and enable all children to do their best.
•
To provide a curriculum, which is broad, balanced and relevant, giving all children the opportunity to learn and achieve.
•
To help all children to develop lively, enquiring minds and the capacity to think critically and rationally.
•
To build on strengths, interests and experiences of individuals and to develop their confidence to work as independent and collaborative learners.
•
To develop the essential skills of literacy and numeracy, and scientific, technological, aesthetic and creative skills
•
To develop physical skills and an awareness of the importance of keeping safe and living a healthy life.
•
To promote children’s spiritual, moral, social and cultural development and to prepare them for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of life.
•
To give our children understanding of respect for themselves, the environment, people, cultures and property and to promote equal opportunities.
•
To promote children’s self esteem and emotional well being
•
To help children to understand concepts and to acquire knowledge and skills relevant to their present needs while looking forward to the future.
•
To involve parents in a partnership with the school, so that together we can support children and ensure that they fulfil their potential.
Ethos •
The school aims to serve its community by providing education of the highest quality within the context of Christian belief and practice. It encourages an understanding of the meaning and significance of faith, and promotes Christian values through the experience it offers to all its pupils.
•
Recognising its historic foundation, the school aims to preserve and develop its religious character in accordance with the principles of the Church of England and in partnership with the church at parish and diocesan level.
Values, standards and attitudes are made clear by example and discussion, so that they can be absorbed by the children and made their own. We expect the behaviour of everyone to be helpful and considerate and have adopted a system of Golden Rules to help promote high standards of behaviour throughout the school. If the school were to adopt one single rule, it would be drawn from the Gospel of Matthew: "Always treat others as you would like them to treat you". (New English Bible).
4
Admissions Policy
The school’s catchment area comprises the village of Elsenham and the hamlets of Fullers End, Gaunts End, Pledgdon Green and Tye Green. Parents who wish their child to attend Elsenham CE Primary School should make an application to Essex County Council using the Essex Common Application Form. This can be completed online or you can complete a paper application form. These should be completed and submitted by January 15th of the academic year of admission. (Mid year application forms should be completed for pupils who wish to join the school at other times.) In the event of more applications being received than there are places available, Essex County Council will consider applications on the basis of the published admissions criteria as follows:1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Children looked after Children living in the priority admissions area with a sibling attending the school Other children living in the priority admissions area Children living outside the priority admissions area with a sibling attending the school Remaining applications
In the event of over-subscription within any of the above criteria, priority will be determined by straight line distance from home to school, those living closest being given the highest priority. Exceptional medical circumstance (supported by medical evidence) may override the above. Your child can start at Elsenham School in the September of the academic year in which his or her fifth birthday occurs. Children born between September 1st and the end of December start full time in the autumn term. From September 2009 all children entering the Reception Class will have the opportunity to attend full time from the autumn term, following discussion between the parents and the school. In the term before your child starts in Acorn Class (Reception), you will be invited to a meeting at school with the class teacher and the Headteacher. You will hear about approaches to early literacy and numeracy skills, and there will be the chance for questions, discussion and some suggestions on how to help your child settle in. We will arrange for your child to spend time in Acorn Class towards the end of the summer term before s/he is due to start. If you have any concerns regarding admissions please telephone the school office. Starting School When your child starts in the Reception Class we will invite you to visit and spend time talking to us about your child and their needs. At the same time we will arrange a series of taster sessions for your child and give you more detailed information so that you can help your child to settle happily. We place a strong emphasis on the Foundation Stage Curriculum and consider play to be fundamental to human learning. Free and structured play is central to the development of the whole child and we provide an active learning environment. This offers your child the very best start to formal education and is the foundation for future success.
5
The School Day School sessions are from 8.50am to 12.00pm and from 1.15pm to 3.15pm for Key stage 1 and from 8.50am to 12.15pm and 1.15pm to 3.15pm for Key Stage 2. There is a fifteen minute midmorning break for all of the children, and another in the afternoon for Key Stage 1 pupils. We ask that children do not arrive in the playground before 8.45am. The school doors are open from 8.50am and we encourage all children to arrive at that time, and come straight into school. They are able to use this time at the beginning of the day to change reading books, and prepare themselves for the day ahead. Teachers and teaching assistants are in the classrooms ready to welcome the children. The teachers are available to speak to parents at the end of the day. There is always a member of staff on duty in the playground from 8.45am. During the lunch break they are looked after by our team of Mid-day Assistants, and after school there is further ten minutes supervision while parents arrive to collect their children. We ask that parents meeting children at 3.15pm should wait in the car park until the gate is unlocked. The children will be brought to meet you by their class teacher or a member of our support staff team. Parents meeting children from the Reception Class should wait in the front playground until 3.15pm when they should make their way round to meet their child at the entrance to the Reception Class garden area. We ask that all parents/ carers telephone the School Office if they are going to be late in collecting a child. In this way we can hopefully avoid any potential upset for them.
6
School Uniform We expect all children to wear school uniform. It is comfortable hard wearing and smart. School uniform helps to encourage a sense of identity and belonging and we hope that parents will support the school by providing their child with the correct uniform and by ensuring that it is worn every day. The uniform consists of:• Grey trousers or shorts, skirt or pinafore • White polo shirt*, shirt or blouse (available with school logo) • Emerald green sweatshirt or cardigan with school logo* • White or grey socks , black or grey tights • Dark green fleece for outdoor wear* (optional) • Reversible waterproof jacket* (optional) Summer variations Green gingham or striped dress School cap Footwear In the interests of safety as well as appearance, please help us by providing secure and suitable footwear for school. Shoes and sandals should be: • low heeled • preferably with enclosed toes • black, brown, navy or white Please make sure pupils have plimsolls or trainers for PE. On occasion we ask children to change shoes if their outdoor shoes are muddy P.E • Green short sleeved t-shirt* ( available with school logo) • Black shorts* A black track suit* may be worn for outdoor P.E. in winter. Art Please provide an absorbent overall, an oversized t shirt is ideal Reading folders and water bottles are available from the school office. * Items marked with an asterisk are available from the school. Please ask at the office for an order form and price list. For safety reasons jewellery should not be worn in school. PLEASE MAKE SURE THAT ALL ITEMS ARE CLEARLY NAMED.
7
Curriculum Organisation We aim to provide a broad and balanced curriculum for all, and to develop the potential of individual children according to their needs and abilities. Maths and English are taught each day following the Primary Strategy framework for those subjects. Other National Curriculum subjects are also taught separately but with an emphasis on the links between subjects. The school’s long term curriculum plan ensures continuity and progression. This document is available to parents if they wish to see it. There are currently seven classes in the school, with children grouped according to age. Detailed planning ensures that teaching and learning activities are matched to children’s capabilities, providing appropriate work for all, including support for less able children and extension tasks for the most able. At Elsenham C E Primary School we consider it very important to equip children with a wide range of learning skills which will enable them to become independent, adaptable learners, able to work both independently and collaboratively with others by the time they leave our school. The hours spent on teaching each week follow the guidance set out by the Government in the document entitled Designing and Timetabling the Primary Curriculum, and exceed the recommendations of the Dearing Report, totalling 21 hours 15 minutes for infants and 23 hours 45 minutes for juniors. This includes Religious Education but excludes registration, breaks, lunchtimes and the statutory daily act of collective worship.
Detailed curriculum documents are available in school. These describe the content for each year group. The following is a brief summary of the main aspects of each subject.
8
The English curriculum covers speaking and listening, reading and writing. It follows the guidance given in the Primary Strategy Framework. We teach children to speak confidently and clearly and to interest others. We also help them to listen actively so that they can learn more easily. It is very important that children develop the skills which will enable them to read for pleasure and information. We use a variety of approaches to the teaching of reading which can be tailored to meet individual needs so that all children develop the skills they need to read with fluency and understanding. We show children that reading is both enjoyable and useful and teach them reading skills. Reading is high on our list of priorities and we encourage you to work with us in our “Home Reading Scheme”. All children will learn to use word recognition, phonics and contextual skills, and work on comprehension, fluency and expression. Children are taught higher order reading skills such as skimming, scanning and note-taking as they progress through the school. We have up to date reading schemes and a wide range of fiction and non-fiction material, including “Big Books”. We encourage all children to write independently from an early age. Emphasis is placed on content and presentation. We teach a clear, legible, cursive style of handwriting following the “Penpals” handwriting scheme. We introduce joined writing once children are forming letters correctly. Early joining supports fluent writing and spelling. Children write on a wide variety of topics and in a variety of styles. They are encouraged to become confident and creative writers, to discuss ideas, communicate clearly in both speech and writing and to redraft their work. Spelling is taught in accordance with the Primary Strategy, using a variety of methods including structured spelling programmes, phonic work and words from the children’s own writing. We use the ERR (Early Reading Research) programme to develop children’s early literacy skills and this is proving very successful. Parents are encouraged to help their children develop literacy skills through sharing books. Class teachers set individual targets for English each term. These targets are discussed with each pupil. All classes have a daily literacy session devoted to teaching reading and writing.
9
Mathematics We aim to encourage and develop an understanding and enjoyment of mathematics. The school follows the scheme of work for mathematics outlined in the Primary Strategy Framework, which identifies the areas to be covered for each year group. It is supported by a wide range of resources and provides a firm foundation of mathematical knowledge. Much of the work is practical, which helps children to grasp mathematical ideas. Mathematics is divided into three areas at Key Stage 1. These are:Using and Applying Mathematics Number Shape, Space and Measures In Key Stage 2 Handling Data is added We aim to help all children develop an understanding of basic mathematical ideas, knowledge and skills, and to be able to apply them appropriately to every day situations and problems. We emphasise the four rules of number, problem solving and mental arithmetic. Tables are considered essential to quick working, and children are encouraged to learn them from Year 2 onwards. Class teachers set individual targets for mathematics each term which are discussed with each pupil. All classes have a daily mathematics lesson based on the Primary Strategy.
The Science curriculum covers:Experimental and Investigative Science Life Processes and Living Things Materials and their Properties Physical Processes Science builds on children’s natural curiosity and teaches children to observe carefully, ask questions, test ideas and experiment to find out more about the world. The work is based on children’s practical experiences and their active exploration of the environment. Pupils are taught to plan experimental work and to obtain and consider evidence. They are given opportunities to use their knowledge of everyday life to explore the nature of scientific ideas, to use appropriate vocabulary, units of measure and methods of data presentation to communicate scientific ideas and to consider health and safety ideas. Where possible we use our links with industry to support our work in science e.g. with Glaxo Smithkline and Shell.
10
Information Communication Technology gives all children the opportunity to use hardware and software with confidence, as well as exploring the use of ICT in everyday life. The children learn to handle text, data and graphics; to develop simple control and programming skills; to use word processing and desk top publishing. ICT is also used as a tool in other curriculum areas and can be used to benefit those with learning difficulties. Interactive programmes, online resources and CD ROM are used as reference resources. Pupils use I.C.T tools to find, explore, analyse, exchange and present information. They develop the ability to make informed judgements about when and where to use I.C.T. to best effect and to consider its implications and its value for themselves and for society. The school has a CC3 network which has the capacity to link up to 150 computers across the school. We have a well-equipped I.C.T. room with sixteen computers and two laptop trolleys with 16 laptops each as well as additional computers in classrooms. These all have safe access to the Internet. Each child is able to access their files from any computer in the school. All classrooms have up to date interactive whiteboards and projectors which greatly enhance the learning opportunities for all of the children. In Design and Technology children learn practical skills and have opportunities to use them in worthwhile “real� activities. They learn to generate designs, to select tools and materials and to make and evaluate products. This subject calls for pupils to become creative problem solvers, working as individuals and as part of a team. Art gives all children the opportunity to experiment and become skilful in using different tools and materials to create visual effects. They will use colour, pattern, texture, line, tone, shape, form and space. As they develop control of tools and techniques, they will draw, paint, print, try collage and three dimensional works. We encourage children to express their emotions and ideas, to grow inwardly in personal awareness and sensitivity, and outwardly in confidence. Children will also be introduced to the work of artists, crafts people and designers from the locality, the past and present and a variety of cultures. History teaches skills of enquiry, judgement and empathy. We use stories, pictures and old objects to show change over time. Understanding time and chronology is difficult but fascinating. We begin with our own history (from birth to today), look at history in more recent times, famous people, cover aspects of ancient civilisations, Romans and Anglo- Saxons, Tudor times and the Victorian Age. We draw on local history whenever possible. Children are encouraged to learn about the past from a wide range of information sources including CD ROMs, the Internet, artefacts, books and museum visits.
11
Geography begins with investigations and field studies in the locality of the school. Through first hand experience, we enable children to develop and apply geographical concepts and skills to increase their awareness and understanding of their world. We compare our experience of the immediate locality with information about other areas in the British Isles, Europe and the World. We study a range of Geographical themes including rivers, weather, settlements, and environmental issues. They use geographical skills, such as map reading, and resources, such as aerial photographs and atlases to support geographical enquiry.
Religious Education and Collective Worship Religious Education is taught in accordance with the Local Education Authority’s syllabus for Religious Education. All children take part in religious education and learn about Christianity and other world religions. Religious education aims to help pupils to think about and develop their own beliefs, values and attitudes. Our aims are to help each child to foster a caring attitude and an appreciation of right and wrong. Children are encouraged to develop a tolerant, open minded approach. Many of the values promoted by religious education are implicit in the way that adults and children relate to each other in our school. Collective Worship The school day includes an Act of Worship as part of the school assembly. The daily act of collective worship includes hymns and time for inner reflection. We also invite parents to celebrate the main Christian festivals of the year with us in services led by children and staff. We have close links with our local church, which uses the school hall for Sunday services. The vicar and lay assistant play an active part in the life and work of the school. Parents who wish to withdraw their children from Religious Education should consult the Head Teacher, who will make appropriate arrangements for them.
Music Children have opportunities to listen to and compose music, to take part in group singing and to play a variety of instruments, including tuned percussion and recorders. Music, movement and drama are often linked to work in other areas of the curriculum. Many pupils also benefit from individual lessons in piano, keyboard, guitar, clarinet and flute. These lessons can be arranged with visiting teachers from Essex County Music Services. Children play their instruments in weekly music assemblies and perform at other school events throughout the year.
12
Physical Education includes games, gymnastics, dance, athletics and swimming. We stress the importance of activity in healthy life styles. All children participate as individuals to gain the skills and confidence to enjoy participating in physical activities. They can also join in team games to learn rules and to practise working together. We have several games teams which compete in local leagues for example, football and netball. Elsenham has a well equipped gymnasium and extensive outdoor facilities. All children have swimming lessons at Grange Paddocks Swimming Pool in Bishop’s Stortford for one term in each academic year. Athletics takes place on our school field and culminates in an annual Sports Day in the Summer Term to which all families are invited. Older pupils participate in District Sports competitions and other competitions arranged by our School Sports Partnership. The school has received the Activemark which is awarded by the DCSF for achieving very high standards in the delivery of PE and sporting opportunities for the past three years.
Modern Foreign Languages is a relatively new area of our curriculum. Pupils of all ages have the opportunity to learn words and phrases from a variety of languages which are in common use across the world. This helps to give an insight into life in other countries and cultures. As children move into Key Stage 2 additional emphasis is placed on the teaching and learning of French. Our intention is that every child should have access to high quality teaching and learning opportunities, making use of native speakers and E-learning where possible. Our teachers take part in training opportunities and we use a variety of resources to help deliver lessons. We work in partnership with Newport Free Grammar School who provide additional support to help ensure that our provision is of the highest quality.
Personal, Social, Health and Citizenship Education Personal, Social and health Education (PSHCE) at Elsenham C of E School helps children to acquire moral values which include truthfulness and honesty. We want children to understand value and accept themselves and others; to develop skills to enable them to make positive relationships; to become responsible and caring members of families and communities; to develop self esteem and a personal set of values by which to live. We promote the development of life skills such as decision making, sensitivity to others and to the world around us, and good communication skills. P.S.H.C E. and citizenship are taught in the context of other National Curriculum subjects and as separate subjects. Citizenship is further developed by the operation of our School Council which has two elected representatives from each class. We also aim to raise awareness of the importance of fitness, hygiene and healthy eating habits. The school has achieved the national Healthy Schools Award in recognition of its work in this area and has been invited to apply for status as a Leading Healthy School
13
Sex Education Sex Education takes place in school both in the answering of children’s questions and in more planned and detailed teaching. It aims to correct misinformation and to place human sexual activity in the context of a caring relationship. Before any specific programme of sex education is undertaken, you are given notice of what it is intended to cover. You have the right to withdraw your child from all or part of the programme unless it forms part of the National Curriculum in science. You should notify the class teacher in the first instance if this is your intention.
Multicultural Education We live in a multicultural society and we are all part of an interdependent world. At Elsenham C. of E. School each person is valued equally and their individuality and unique contributions are recognised. We applaud the rich variation of culture in our society and never tolerate racism or prejudice of any nature.
Commonly Asked Questions What about Homework? We value highly, the involvement of parents in their children’s learning. We set homework to reinforce and extend the work the children do in school. We also believe that young children need time to relax, play and develop interests outside school. Homework tasks focus on literacy and numeracy and, might include reading, learning spellings or tables, research or a maths investigation or game. Expectations gradually increase as children move up through the school. As a guide, children in Years 1 and 2 receive one hour per week, in Years 3 and 4 one and a half hours a week, and Years 5 and 6 two and a half hours per week. Reception year pupils are expected to read at home with their parents, to learn phonic sounds and key words and to practise handwriting skills. The tasks set are not always formal and do not always need a written outcome. We hope that parents will be able to support their children with homework as part of an effective partnership between home and school.
How will I know if my child is making progress? It is a legal requirement that all children are formally assessed, using national standard tasks and tests (SATs), at the end of Year 6. Additional materials are used to formally assess
14
children at the end of Year 2. The results are reported to parents, and should be viewed in conjunction with the teacher’s assessment to give a full picture of your child’s progress. We have a policy of continuous assessment from entry to school onwards. This assessment enables teachers to plan the next stage for each child’s learning and to ensure that all children make good progress and succeed in education. Parents are welcome to come in to the classrooms at the end of each school day so that their child can show them the work they have been doing or to take the opportunity to look at classroom displays. You will also have more formal opportunities to find out how your child is getting on. Parents’ Consultation Evenings are held each term. You will have an opportunity to look at your child’s work and talk about your child’s progress with the class teacher. Written Reports are sent to parents during the academic year. These include information about the work that has been covered, individual progress and targets for further development. Please take the opportunity to visit your child’s classroom to see the range of work on display. We would like to emphasise that you are most welcome at any time of the school year to make an appointment to see your child’s class teacher or the head teacher to discuss any aspect of life at school.
What happens if my child has Special Educational Needs? Support for children with special educational needs is given by the class teachers and classroom assistants, co-ordinated by a Specialist teacher (SENCO) and the Headteacher. Support may be given to children individually or in small groups. When we are concerned about individual progress, we always consult parents and keep them fully informed. It is our aim to identify needs at an early stage so that we can give appropriate support without delay We are proud of the standard of our care, guidance and support (which was particularly praised in the OFSTED report ) and the contribution it makes for children with special needs. We seek to remove barriers which may limit children’s learning and we strive to support all children to ensure that they fulfil their maximum potential. We use the Essex Stages of Assessment procedures when responding to children’s special needs and welcome the full participation of parents in meeting their child’s needs.
What happens if my child is gifted or has a particular talent? Gifted and Talented pupils are identified and their progress is monitored and supported to ensure that they maximise their potential. We work in partnership with other local schools to ensure that these pupils have further opportunities to work with other pupils with similar talents and ability. The school has recently received the bronze Challenge Award for Gifted and Talented. 15
What happens if my child is unhappy or is experiencing problems? The pastoral care of each child is the responsibility of the class teacher and depends on a close relationship between the child and the teacher, and between the staff and the parents. If a child is unhappy or is experiencing problems, the class teacher will tell parents and the head teacher and, if necessary, other members of staff including classroom support assistants. Our policy is to involve parents at the earliest possible stage so that we can work together to support each child. As head teacher, I am always happy to discuss your child’s needs with you. I am on duty to support children through lunchtime. Good discipline in the school is essential if children are to learn in a safe and ordered environment. We consider good manners and behaviour to be of great importance and the school approach is caring and firm. We expect children to be polite and considerate. We understand that bad behaviour can sometimes be due to anxiety and will support children through problems. However, we cannot let children disrupt school for others. If your child’s behaviour causes us concern we will contact you so that we can work together to solve the problem. It must be stressed that bullying, violence and disruptive behaviour are not acceptable at Elsenham C. of E. Primary School.
What happens if there are concerns over my child’s welfare? Our first priority is your child’s welfare and therefore there may be occasions when our concern about your child means that we have to consult other agencies before we contact you. The procedures we follow have been laid down by the safeguarding Team at Essex County Council. If you want to know more about this procedure, please speak to the Headteacher.
What charges are made for school activities? The school’s Governing Body adopts Essex County Council policies in respect of charges for school activities. We cannot afford to meet the cost of visits and activities such as swimming from the school budget. We have to ask you to make voluntary contributions to meet the costs. We will not exclude a child but, if insufficient contributions are received the event will not be able to take place. Anyone concerned about meeting the cost of an activity is encouraged to speak in confidence, to the head teacher. Charges will only be made for materials, ingredients, etc. used in practical classroom work where agreed with parents in advance. Please ask at the school office if you would like to see copies of Essex County Council’s and the Governing Body’s policies on charges for school activities.
16
What opportunities are there for extra curricular activities? The teaching staff give generously of their free time to ensure that extra curricular activities take place during the lunch break or after school. The activities vary according to the time of year and availability of staff. Netball football and general sports and fitness clubs are held each week during the Autumn and Spring terms. We also have external providers who offer football and short tennis coaching on a weekly basis. Our teams play matches against local schools and take part in annual tournaments. Rounders, Cricket and Athletics clubs are run in the summer term and Elsenham takes part in District Sports competitions. Other clubs include; Bible Club, ICT, art, drama, board games and debating club.
What about opportunities for the performing arts? Performing is fun. It builds confidence and self awareness. Some children, in other places, may never have the chance to perform on a stage. At Elsenham we give all the children the opportunity to perform in assemblies, concerts and plays. At Christmas we have the Nativity Play involving every child from Reception to Year 2. Junior Productions take place at the end of the summer term. Other opportunities include musicians’ assemblies, class assemblies and Maypole dancing. The theatre group “Bedazzle�, an outside provider, offer a weekly workshop for pupils.
What about school trips? Trips greatly enrich school life and the curriculum. We plan day trips each year and also offer a residential journey to children in Years 5 and 6. In 2008 the children visited Hillcrest, a multi skills activity centre in Herefordshire, and in September 2009, they visited Aylmerton in Norfolk. These visits are greatly enjoyed and we hope that all children will be able to take part.
How will I know what is happening in school? A weekly newsletter is sent home from school with your child each Friday. This gives information on forthcoming events, holiday dates and also news of fundraising events. . Parents with an Email address receive this electronically via ParentMail. Use of ParentMail also enables us to send text messages to parents when information needs to be distributed more urgently. Leaflet Distribution From time to time we are asked to distribute leaflets advertising events for children in the local community. These are for your information and you should not assume that the school approves of or recommends these activities. 17
OTHER INFORMATION What happens if my child is ill?
Medicines are not held in school. You may bring in a single dose of your child’s medication in a named container together with a letter stating clearly the dosage and permission for a member of the office staff to administer the medicine. If your child is suffering from Hay Fever, the medicine (clearly labelled and a letter explaining the dosage) should be handed in at the school office. Children will be permitted to administer the medication themselves under the supervision of office staff or head teacher. If your child is really unwell during the day, you will be contacted so that you may decide what is best for your child. If parents are at work every effort is made to keep the child comfortable until the end of the school day. You are asked to ensure that the school has a telephone number where you may be contacted should there be an emergency, particularly where both parents are at work.
How do I know my child will be safe?
A high priority is given to the security of all members of the school. Premises are inspected regularly. We restrict access to the building to the main entrance by means of security locks and a buzzer whilst retaining freedom of movement for those working within the school. Visitors to the school are asked to sign their name and arrival and departure times into the visitors’ book. An identity badge is issued for the duration of their visit. There is a telephone extension in the re-locatable classroom as well as in the classrooms furthest away from the Office. The safety of your child is of paramount importance to us at all times. The school car park and the drive are out of bounds for children during school hours. Dogs should not be brought onto the school site. In line with advice from the Local Education Authority it is school policy that for reasons of safety jewellery should not be worn in school, the only exception to this rule being a watch. Long hair should also, for safety reasons, be tied back in school. In general children should not bring toys to school unless they are specifically requested to do so by their class teachers.
18
What happens if my child is disabled?
In the event of a permanently disabled child being admitted to the school their particular needs would be assessed and the Local Education Authority required to provide any appropriate facilities. Should a child become temporarily disabled (for instance by a broken leg) every effort is made to help the child have access to whatever part of the building is required. Wheelchair access is possible for the disabled visitor to all parts of the main building. A disabled toilet is available.
What will my child eat during the School Day? Some children like to bring a packed lunch, and others prefer to have a hot lunch. School lunches should be ordered in advance on Monday mornings; children do not have to have the school lunch every day in the week, but may have it on occasional days, if they wish. School lunches should be ordered and paid for the week, in advance, at the school office each Monday. The current cost is £2.10 per meal. Please put the payment in an envelope with your child’s name on it, or a cheque made payable to “Elsenham C of E Primary School”. If your child is having a packed lunch, please make sure the lunch box is clearly named. Please do not send fizzy drinks. Most children like to bring a snack to eat at the mid-morning break. They may bring fruit, vegetables or a cereal bar. Our older children take responsibility for the sale of a range of fruit which is available for purchase at morning break. Each item costs 20p. Pupils also have the opportunity to purchase milk on a termly basis. Sweets should not be brought to school either in lunch boxes or as a snack. If you are receiving Income Support you may be entitled to free school lunches for your child. Application forms are available in confidence from the school office.
What happens if my child is away from school or is late? Regular attendance is crucial and we expect all children to arrive punctually so that we can have a prompt and calm start to the day. The register is taken at 9am. However, if you do get held up for some reason, please let us know by telephone or message, and please come along anyway as soon as you can - it is better to arrive late than to give up on a session altogether. If you are too late for the register, please call in to the school office to let us know your child is here.
19
If you need to take your child out of school during the day, please let us know either in person or by letter. We are required by law to distinguish between children’s authorised and unauthorised absences, and every year we have to publish statistics of all absences. (The information on the most recent year is included in the appendices, as well as some explanatory notes.) You are therefore asked to make sure that you contact the school every time your child is absent, letting us know the reason: If s/he does not arrive at school, we need to be sure that s/he is safe. A full list of school holiday dates is included in the appendices. We do understand the pressures put on families to take holidays during term time but must remind you that one period of no more than ten days can be authorised in any calendar year. If you need to consider this option, you can ask at the school office for an application form.
What can I do to support my child’s school? The school has a very active association, the Friends of Elsenham School (FOES). All parents automatically become members. Meetings are held regularly throughout the year and the AGM is held in the autumn term each year. Many fund-raising events and entertainment for all the family are held throughout the year. The children benefit greatly from the funds raised. recent projects have included the installation of a purpose built cookery area as well as new interactive whiteboard projectors for classrooms. A number of parents also help in classrooms with reading, craftwork and cookery etc. Parents are also invited to accompany educational visits where appropriate. We welcome and value the contributions that parents make in this way.
Which secondary school will my child transfer to?
On leaving our school at the end of year 6, pupils from our school transfer to a number of different local secondary schools. Letters explaining transfer procedures are sent out to the parents of children in Year 6 during the autumn term of each year. Children are released from school to attend open days or visit secondary schools where appropriate. The head teacher and class teacher concerned will try to help with any questions you may have. Very effective liaison helps to ensure that their transition is as smooth as possible wherever pupils choose to move to. Throughout Year 6 pupils are involved in a number of projects to help prepare them for the move. For pupils with additional specific needs further steps may be put in place. Pupils are supported in the decision making process and both supported and independent visits to potential secondary schools are facilitated. 20
What happens if I live some distance from the School? Infants (5-7 years) are transported free if they live more than two miles from the school. To qualify for free transport, Juniors (7-11 years) must live more than three miles away. Arrangements are sometimes made for concessionary travel paid by the parent; for details ask at the school office. Regrettably the access road to the school car park is not wide enough to allow parents to use it either before or after school to deliver or collect their children. It can be used with care for functions out of school hours e.g. parents’ evenings.
We look forward to meeting you and getting to know your children.
Please tell us when we do something well. We are always looking for ways in which we can improve.
We hope that you will never have to complain. We see the education of children at our school as a partnership between the children, parent, staff and governors. We hope that any difficulties that arise can be dealt with informally at the school within this partnership framework. If you have a concern you should approach, in the first instance, your child’s class teacher, then the head teacher. The governing body is also there to assist you. However, if a problem arises that cannot be resolved, there is, under the Education Reform Act 1988, a procedure for making a formal complaint about a school. Any parent wishing to make a formal complaint should initially approach the head teacher, who will discuss the problem and, if necessary, provide details of how to proceed further.
21
Local Education Authority’s Liability Your attention is drawn to the following statement from the Local Education Authority:
‘All property brought on to educational premises, including the school grounds, is done so at owners’ risk. This of course includes cars parked in recognised parking areas. It is not the usual practice to make payments in compensation unless it can be proved that the County Council has been negligent in any way.’ The Local Education Authority would like you to know that it does not have personal accident insurance for pupils and that parents should make their own arrangements for this if they feel it necessary. Please note that the information given above on Elsenham C. of E. Voluntary Controlled Primary School was correct as at October 2009, but it should not be assumed that there have been no subsequent changes affecting the relevant arrangements or some particular matter during the academic year 2009/10.
22