Sher bur nHi l l Pr i mar ySc hool
Sc hool Br oc hur e2014/ 2015
Fr ontSt r eet ,Sher bur nHi l l , Dur ham,DH6 1PA Tel ephone:0191 3720315 Fax:0191 3723751 Emai l :s her bur nhi l l @dur haml ear ni ng. net DFESNumber840/ 2482
Headteacher: Susan Cornforth
Sherburn Hill Primary School Front Street, Sherburn Hill, Durham. DH6 1PA Dear Parent, Sherburn Hill Primary School is a small school with a wonderful ‘family’ atmosphere. It offers modern classroom facilities with interactive whiteboards and personal computers, a non-fiction and fiction library, conference room, group learning and resource areas, kitchen and a hall. The school enjoys a playground to the front, with separate key stage 1 area and good playing fields to the rear. Our School is part of a federation with Sherburn Village Primary School. This was established in 2010 to protect the future of both schools and to further strengthen the good work done in both schools. Both schools are run by one Head teacher and staff work collaboratively across the two schools to plan and deliver a stimulating curriculum which will promote good progress for all children. Within the Hill and Village Primary School Federation we aim to promote the development of the whole child through a curriculum and programme of activities which are tailored to build upon children's prior experiences and promote learning. We aim to facilitate independence and self-motivation; to grasp natural inquisitiveness in our children and help in building positive self-esteem and confidence. We endeavour to provide an environment in which all children are stimulated and challenged, whilst promoting the value of making mistakes as a learning opportunity. All children are valued and their needs met by a supportive, talented and caring staff team.
I firmly believe that children can only reach their true potential when home and school work in collaboration to help every child blossom. Parents are always welcome in school and are actively encouraged to join us for family learning activities. Thank you for expressing an interest in our school. I hope the brochure will help you to gain a better picture of what we can offer your child. However, the best way to get to know us is to come and meet us and to spend a little time with us.
Kind Regards, Susan Cornforth (Head Teacher)
Admissions Arrangements The Local Authority sets the Admissions Policy and criteria, in accordance with government regulations. This gives parents the opportunity to express a preference about which school they wish their child to attend. Procedures are designed to facilitate parental choice, while at the same time ensuring that no school becomes over-subscribed. It is the responsibility of parents to ensure that the preference form is completed and returned to: Education Admissions, Room3/127, County Hall, DURHAM CITY DH1 5UJ Forms are available at local schools and from the Admissions Team. If admission were to be denied, an Appeal Procedure, in accordance with the Education Act, is available to interested parties. It may not be possible to offer your child a place at your chosen school if that school receives more applications than it can take within its admission limit. Where this happens, places will be allocated by the L.A. according to the following criteria in order of priority: 1 Children in Public Care 2 Medical reasons - very exceptional medical factors directly related to school placement. Written evidence from a doctor is needed.
3 Family Links - pupils who have a brother or sister already attending the preferred school or associated primary school on the same site and who are expected to be on roll at the school at the time of admission. 4 Distance - pupils who live nearest the preferred school. This will be based on the parents' address and shortest walking route. The Authority will, however, consider the overall availability of school places in an area to ensure that no children have an unreasonable distance to walk. This may override proximity to the preferred school. Parents considering sending their child to our school are most welcome to visit the school. Children who are about to start school are invited to spend sessions in the reception class, during the term prior to which they start school. Information concerning such arrangements will be sent to parents in good time. The school encourages open communication between home and school: parents are encouraged to approach staff with any issues, however small, you will receive regular invitations to spend time in school and we send out regular newsletters. Governors The Federation has a Governing Body of twenty-six people, comprising of parents, community members, representatives of the local authority and staff. The Chair of the Governing Body is Mr. Raymond Pye and the Vice Chair is Mrs. Deborah Halliwell. Staff
Miss Susan Cornforth
Head Teacher
Mrs Joanne Cooper
Deputy Head and Dragonfly Class teacher (Y3, 4,5 ,6)
Mrs Jill Singleton
Acting Deputy Head and Class 3 teacher (covering Mrs Cooper’s Maternity leave)
Mrs Laura McConnell
Key Stage 1 Lead, Butterfly Class teacher (R, Y1, Y2)
Mrs Jaci Dooley
Butterfly Class teacher (part time)
Mrs Gina Burnside
Ladybird Class teacher (Y2/3)
Rachael Barnett
Higher Level Learning Support Assistant
Karen Hall
Higher Level Learning Support Assistant
Emma French
Learning Support Assistant
Deborah McGranaghan
Office Manager
Allison Carlyon
Administrative Support
Eliott Bowes
Premises Manager
Diane Stout
Breakfast Club/Lunchtime Supervisor
Christine Davison
Lunchtime Supervisor
Mandy Watson
Lunchtime Supervisor
Curriculum The Governors work with the teaching staff and Local Education Authority to provide a broad, balanced, differentiated and relevant curriculum. School is an important influence on a child's development and its curriculum promotes the academic, physical, cultural, moral, spiritual, and social welfare of each individual pupil. It seeks to develop the potential of every child, in order to prepare them for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of adult life and provide a sound basis for lifelong education. Work is carefully differentiated to cater for the needs of individual children with appropriate levels of support available and given. Pupils spend most of the day with the class teacher, who prepares and teaches all subjects. Throughout the school, pupils have the opportunity to be taught as part of a class, in a collaborative group or one to one as well as in a whole class situation. Teaching is delivered to suit particular learning styles, with lessons combining exciting practical and stimulating theoretical aspects of learning. Further information about topics covered throughout the year can be found on the school web site. In general, the school aims to produce happy pupils with sound moral values, who are both literate and numerate and who are hard-working, self-disciplined, considerate, responsible and sociable.
The Foundation Stage When children start school they enter what is known as the Foundation Stage. Their first year in school is spent in preparation for the National Curriculum. It is in this year that many new important skills and knowledge is learned and children work towards a set of skills within the Early Years Curriculum. Outdoor learning is an important aspect of learning through play and children are encouraged to explore and develop their creative thinking and practical skills in a safe and stimulating setting. English Every aspect of the children's work is influenced by the extent to which they use language with imagination and accuracy. Competence in reading, writing and speaking and listening is encouraged throughout the curriculum in order to enable the children to communicate appropriately and effectively. Mathematics Considerable importance is attached to the children achieving and understanding mathematical processes, concepts and skills. A favourable attitude is encouraged by presenting it in an interesting and enjoyable way, allowing the children to actively participate in the learning process, thus creating a sense of achievement and confidence. There is a strong emphasis on the development of mental arithmetic. Science To enable the acquisition of a systematic, scientific approach to learning, developing useful knowledge, skills and attitudes about the world in which we live science experience is presented to the children in a practical, relevant context. Systematic inquiry, analysis of problems, formation of ideas, their testing and modification are encouraged through project work and practical investigations, designed to arouse the children's natural curiosity. At present children in key Stage 2 are bussed down to the Sherburn Village site one afternoon a week for science lessons. Information and Communication Technology Computers and other technological aids are used throughout the school. ICT skills are taught as a discrete subject and as a means of supporting other areas of the curriculum. The children are encouraged to communicate ideas and information in a variety of forms, where appropriate, using equipment and computer software to enhance their learning. The school has its own web site.
Learning for Life (Personal, Social, Health and Citizenship Education) Learning for Life helps to give pupils the knowledge, skills and understanding they need to lead confident, healthy, independent lives and to become informed active responsible citizens. This important area of the curriculum deals with social skills, relationships, antibullying, setting own goals and how to achieve them, raising self-esteem and changes in people’s lives. Children have opportunities to work in small groups and whole class situations to allow them to express their opinions and views. Important matters of general hygiene and cleanliness in order to promote health of mind and body and an awareness of sensible diet, care of body, teeth, hair, nails etc. fitness, stress and drug abuse are amongst some of the issues addressed through cross curricular topics such as Literacy and Science. Sex education, as such, is not a subject in itself on the curriculum. Questions arise on a wide variety of topics. Teachers answer questions honestly, taking care that, especially in the case of younger children, answers are simple and straightforward and do not give rise to confusion or anxiety. All children are encouraged to refer to their parents for further information, and, should it be thought necessary, parents may be contacted by the school. The School Nurse works with the staff and Year 6 pupils in the summer term to deliver information on puberty in line with L.A. requirements.
Religious Education The school believes that religious education should provide a contemporary study of religion, preparing children for later life. The school bears in mind that the British Isles is a multi-cultural nation, which has Christianity as the main religion of the indigenous population. As a result, Christianity will receive the appropriate weighting within the religious education curriculum. Due consideration within this framework will be given to other faiths. Respect, tolerance and understanding for the beliefs of others will be promoted as part of our programme. The school has adopted the L.A.'s Religious Education Syllabus and Policy. Parents have the right to withdraw children from religious lessons and daily worship in assemblies but it must be understood that such activities make a contribution to cross-curricular objectives pursued during the course of the school week. Special Educational Needs Children with special educational needs may have physical, sensory, linguistic, emotional, behavioural or learning difficulties. They will follow the National
Curriculum so that they have the greatest possible educational opportunities, but activities will be differentiated to suit individual and groups of children. All children may experience learning difficulties from time to time and may be given additional small group or individual support. Liaison with the Educational Psychological Services, Social Care and Health Service is maintained. This, along with close collaboration by school staff, enables early identification of pupils' needs. Further support is given via Durham's Learning and Behaviour Support Service. Parents are consulted and kept fully informed at all stages. The school recognises and caters for the needs of more able and talented children. Physical Education The school aims to develop control, co-ordination and mastery of the body, learnt through action and observation. Opportunities are provided to grow and develop through dance, gymnastics, athletics, games and outdoor and adventurous activities. Swimming for Key Stage 2 pupils takes place at a local Primary School. A short note should be sent to the school on occasions when your child is unfit to participate in such activities, on the understanding that a child who is fit for school ought to be fit for P.E. All items of jewellery, including ear-rings, must be removed before participating in P.E. lessons. Long hair should be tied back. Pastoral Care Each child is encouraged to look to the class teacher for help and guidance on any matter. All staff are always willing to assist and care for any child. Open communication between the home and school is encouraged and treated confidentially with the welfare of each individual child always our priority. Discipline and Behaviour. To create a pleasant atmosphere, conducive to learning, in which the children can work safely and efficiently, high standards of positive self-discipline are required. All pupils are expected to be well-behaved and so bring credit to themselves, their parents and our school. Good order and positive discipline are sought through good relationships. Generally the school enjoys a friendly, caring and supportive atmosphere and emphasis is given to encouraging and showing appreciation of good behaviour rather than to punish bad behaviour.
It is expected that parents who send their children to our school will be prepared to support the school fully in its insistence on high standards of behaviour not only in school but within the local community. School Code of Conduct The rules are few but are considered necessary and need to be adhered to, by all, in everyone's interest. 1. Always remember good manners; say please and thank you and be polite to everybody. 2. Respect one another’s feelings. 3. Try not to make others unhappy by fighting and saying nasty things. 4. Look after you own belongings as well as other peoples. 5. Take care of our school and everything in it. 6. Give other people a helping hand whenever you can. 7. Walk around school in a safe and calm way. Keep to the left on the stairs and in corridors. 8. Always try your best in everything you do. Work hard at all times and remember to do your homework and ask for help when you need it. Pupils are rewarded for following the Code of Conduct. However those who disobey the rules receive a consequence: • • • • • •
A 1st and 2nd warning / reminder. Removal from work/play activity (cooling down period) in class or in another class. Loss of free time to complete work or appropriate task. Contact made with parents. Involvement of Head Teacher and parents in Behavioural Support Programme. Parental Contract/Pastoral Support Programme.
Pupils receive house points for good work and behaviour. Individual and class rewards are given at regular intervals. By such a clearly stated Discipline and Behaviour Plan we aim to teach our children how important it is to be responsible for their actions – an essential element for success in life. We ask that you support our code of conduct in the best interests of all our pupils and by your own example help to foster good manners and self-discipline.
Reporting and Assessment An annual written report on your child's progress and attainment is issued towards the end of the summer term. Opportunities to discuss your child's progress are given twice in the year, when private interviews with the class teachers are held. Brief meetings with teaching staff are also available immediately after or before school by appointment. Once a month we hold an informal open session after school, where the children are encouraged to bring you into school to show you the work they have been doing. If, however, parents feel the need to discuss matters concerning their child at other times they are encouraged to call in and see the class or head teacher. Progress of all pupils is monitored closely by staff in order that children of all abilities are given opportunities to fulfil their potential. Homework There is a greater realisation that education is not solely the responsibility of school but that now everyone has a role to play. The overwhelming majority of parents want to help their children and increasingly the partnership between home and school has a significant impact upon the raising of awareness and standards. The precise amount of time set for homework is less important than the intrinsic value of the tasks. The purposes of homework are: • To encourage pupils to develop skills, confidence and motivation to study effectively on their own. • To consolidate and reinforce skills and understanding developed at school (particularly in English and Maths) • To extend school learning e.g. through additional reading and research. • To develop and sustain the involvement of parents in the management of their children's learning and thereby keep them informed about the work done in school. • To use resources for learning, of all kinds, at home, actively involving parents. The purposes and types of homework will obviously change as children get older. Please help your child by: • providing time and a suitable place for homework. • making it clear that you value homework and support our school in explaining how it can help children make progress. • giving praise for the completion of homework. Children will be given extra work to assist with their learning. This may include some research or written work. Daily reading at home is particularly encouraged and parental assistance is greatly appreciated.
Staff are only too willing to give parents guidance in this area. Educational Visits Visits to a variety of places of interest are encouraged, when and where appropriate, in order to enhance studies undertaken by the children. Prior notification and details of all such outings will be given to parents. Costs of most activities are subsidised from school funds and parents may be asked to voluntarily contribute towards expenses, in accordance with L.A. policy. Extra-Curricular Activities A range of activities is available at various and appropriate times during the school year. These may include a variety of sports, dance, craft and computer clubs plus a homework club SATs booster work is also offered at different times of the year. Equality of Opportunity We are committed to the principle of equality of opportunity for all our pupils. Any form of racism or discrimination of any sort will not be tolerated within the school community and will be dealt with in accordance with LEA guidelines. School Meals Children may stay for school meals, which are cooked on site. These cost £9.75 a week and are nutritionally balanced. We offer a choice of meals which children pre-order so that there is always something they like. We ask that parents exercise careful control over packed lunches and encourage a healthy balanced diet in accordance with the school’s Food Policy and DCSF guidelines. Please do not send fizzy drinks, chocolate bars or sweets. We request that items of packed lunch that remain uneaten, are returned home in order that parents may monitor eating habits. School Uniform Black/Grey skirt or trousers White shirt or blouse Red sweater or cardigan Red gingham dress or grey/black shorts (Summer) White polo or sports shirt Black or navy P.E. shorts, a white t-shirt and plimsolls or light trainers are required by pupils There is a range of sweatshirts, polo shirts, cardigans, fleeces, and coats available for order through the school. School uniform means most pupils are suitably dressed for school and any debate about what their children should be wearing is eliminated.
The Governing Body encourages all parents to ensure that pupils wear school uniform. The wearing of jewellery and earrings is not allowed as it is considered unnecessary and can be dangerous in certain school situations. Sensible and appropriate dress is expected at all times. Accidents Please ensure that we have an up-to-date telephone number where you can be contacted during the day, should your child take ill or have an accident whilst at school. Always notify the school of any change in address, telephone number etc. in case of emergency. Attendance and Absence If your child is away from school for any reason, please contact us as soon as possible, either by letter or telephone. This is especially important if your child is absent with an infectious disease. There are now stricter regulations regarding registration in school and any unauthorised absences are treated as truancy and may lead to further investigation by the Educational Welfare Officer. If there is any doubt about your child being fit for school, we ask that you exercise careful judgement, bearing in mind the welfare of the other pupils and the limited facilities we have in school for attending to a sick child. Other than in exceptional circumstances, school cannot authorise any holiday during term-time. Medical It is helpful if prior notice is given about medical appointments requiring time out of school. These appointments can be kept only if the child is collected from school by a parent or responsible adult. Children using inhalers must be able to operate these themselves; staff will supervise but not administer the dosage. Non-prescribed medicines are not permitted in school. Prescribed medicine brought into school must be accompanied by a form, available from the school office, for completion by parents. Transfer to Secondary School At the end of Year 6 the children transfer to secondary school. You will receive more information nearer the time. The teaching staff work closely with colleagues from the secondary schools to provide continuity of teaching and learning. Most children in our school transfer to Belmont School. Transport is provided to this school, but there is a cost to parents.
Further Information The school has policy documents concerning the curriculum and other matters, which have been accepted by the Governing Body and these along with our latest Ofsted Report and schemes of work may be made available upon request from the Head teacher.
Complaints Procedure The Governing Body have agreed a procedure for progressing general school complaints. A copy of this procedure is available from school. It would be helpful however where parents have concerns about the operation of the school if they could discuss these in the first instance with the Head teacher.
School Hours
Children are asked not to arrive at school before 8.45 a.m. as supervision is not available. Â
Morning Afternoon 9.00 - 12.00 p.m. 1.00 - 3.15 p.m. There is a morning break of 15 minutes at 10.30 a.m. Lunch time is 12:00 – 1:00 pm A Typical Day at School Normally English and Maths are taught in the mornings with other subjects being taught during the rest of the day. The curriculum is topic based throughout the school. Water dispensers are available in school and children are encouraged to drink from their water bottles throughout the day to keep themselves well hydrated. Infant pupils are currently provided with free fruit via the National Fruit Scheme. Older children are encouraged to bring in fruit for playtime.
N.B. It must be appreciated that this information is correct at the time of printing but it must not be assumed that there will be no change affecting the relevant arrangements before the start of, or during the school year in question. If there is anything you do not understand or about which you need more detailed information, please contact the school.