St Aloysius' College Welcome to Kindergarten and Junior School 2023-24

WELCOME TO ST ALOYSIUS’ COLLEGE KINDERGARTEN AND JUNIOR SCHOOL

Welcome

I would like to welcome you to the Junior School at St Aloysius’ College as your child begins their ‘Green Blazer Story’. These promise to be exciting times for your child. Our mission as a Jesuit, Catholic school is to work with you to ensure that each student fulfils his or her God-given potential in every aspect of their lives. This needs a strong partnership between home and school. We want your sons and daughters to share the Jesuit vision of ‘finding God in all things’ – in their studies, on the sports field, in drama and music, in their friendships, and in all aspects of their lives. We will cherish your child as an individual and we want them to be happy, kind, confident and successful in whichever direction their talents take them.

Our school is built on strong, positive relationships and we are always happy to see parents. We know that while raising children can occasionally be tricky, things go best for them when they hear the same message from you and us. Please keep in touch and support us as we support you, especially if you have an idea of how we might improve or you would like some help.

Do say ‘hello’ when we meet and introduce yourself: I can usually be found welcoming students to College every morning at our Hill Street entrance, and I will also be cheering on our sports teams on Saturday mornings! Come and join in!

I am delighted that you and your child are becoming part of our community. I hope that it will be a happy and fulfilling journey that enables your child to flourish.

AMDG MrPatrickDoyle HeadofStAloysius'College

CONTENTS

PASTORAL INTRODUCTION

SECTION 1: KEY INFORMATION

THE SCHOOL DAY WRAP AROUND CARE

UNIFORM

CLOTHING AND PERSONAL BELONGINGS

SNACKS AND LUNCH ABSENCES

ILLNESS AND MEDICATION

KINDERGARTEN TOOTHBRUSHING

PASTORAL / ADDITIONAL SUPPORT

HEALTH AND SAFETY

USEFUL DATES

PARENT INFORMATION SESSIONS / MASSES

EARLY YEARS INTRODUCTION

EARLY YEARS CURRICULUM

SECTION 2: KINDERGARTEN SETTLING IN KEY STAFF REGISTRATION PROCEDURES

HOW PARENTS CAN BE INVOLVED PROGRESSION INTO JUNIOR SCHOOL

SECTION 3: INFANTS (P1-P3)

SETTLING IN HOMEWORK LEARNING JOURNALS PROGRESSION TO JUNIORS

SECTION 4: JUNIORS (P4-P7) SETTLING IN CURRICULUM HOMEWORK

SECTION 5: COMMUNICATION PARTNERSHIPS WITH PARENTS HOME AND SCHOOL

PROGRESS AND REPORTING CONTACT WITH THE SCHOOL

ONLINE TOOLS

CHILD PROTECTION AND COMPLAINTS

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Dear Parents/Carers

We are delighted to welcome you to the Aloysian community and look forward to working with you and your child throughout their time in the Junior School.

We consider pastoral care to be central to a child’s success at school as we know that if a child feels happy, safe and secure then they will ultimately make the progress they are capable of. The positive relationships between staff and students is tangible in the Junior school and each young person is known to all staff members individually. These positive and supportive relationships help us to ensure each child achieves their best in all areas of school life.

Your child’s teacher will take the lead for your child’s pastoral care, although the responsibility falls on all staff to help ensure your child feels included and respected. Pupils in the Junior School are also assigned to a House. The House System plays an important role in the Junior School, uniting pupils of all ages in academic and extracurricular activities. Staff are also allocated a house so the activities are often marked by a healthy competitiveness!

You know your child best and so we always encourage you to communicate directly with us whenever you have concerns or queries regarding your child’s wellbeing or learning. Please do not hesitate to get in touch at any time, no matter how small these concerns may be.

We invite you to get involved in all that our school has to offer and look forward to building a strong and fruitful partnership with you.

EMMA DOHERTY JUNIOR SCHOOL DEPUTE: PASTORAL

SECTION ONE: KEY INFORMATION

THE SCHOOL DAY

KINDERGARTEN

Kindergarten children may be dropped off from 8.30am and collected by 3pm. Please inform staff if another adult is collecting your child and make sure that they know your pre-arranged password. Children should not be collected or brought to school by anyone under 16 years of age.

INFANTS

After the first day, school commences at 8.55am. Staff will be on duty from 8.30am to accompany the Primary 1 pupils to the Atrium and supervise the children. Primary 1 meet here until September when they remain in the Playground. Primary 2 and 3 pupils go directly to the playground in the morning.

The day ends for Primary 1 and 2 at 3.15pm and Primary 3 at 3.20pm. Parents should collect their child from the Junior School playground where children are dismissed at the door by their teacher. If children are attending After School Care they are collected from the Atrium at the end of the school day

JUNIORS

The Primary 4-7 start their day on arrival to the Junior School Playground. Their school day ends at 3.20pm. Parents should collect their child from the Junior School playground where they are dismissed at the door by their teacher. Children in Primary 4-7 can attend After School Clubs until 4.30pm (optional). Clubs are dismissed to the Junior School reception/playground for pick up. If children are booked into After School Care they then transfer to the Kindergarten building.

We ask that all children remain within the school campus until they are collected so they are safe. If they have not been picked up at the end of the day by their parents, they will wait in Reception to be collected. Please inform staff if another adult is collecting your child through the school homework diary or by telephoning Reception on 0141 331 9200.

SECTIONONE:KEYINFORMATION WRAPAROUNDCARE

We offer a variety of wrap around care options to meet the needs of our parents and pupils.

BREAKFASTCLUB:7.45am-8.30am

Breakfast Club operates from 7.45am each day. Children have their breakfast in the refectory with a variety of activities for them to engage in. They are then escorted over to the playground at 8.30am.

AFTERCARE:Session1:3.30pm-4.30pm.Session2:4.30pm-6pm. After Care runs from within our Kindergarten which is adapted for the end of each day. There are arts and crafts, games and free play activity time for the pupils. They also have the opportunity to complete homework, all in a caring and engaging environment.

HOLIDAYCLUB

Holiday Club takes place during the October week, February week (3 days), Easter and Summer holidays. The programme for each session is created in collaboration with the pupils to ensure a variety of activities and themes are covered to engage with the varied ages and interests of each child.

SECTION ONE: KEY INFORMATION UNIFORM

KINDERGARTEN UNIFORM

•College gold Polo shirt

•Junior school sweatshirt

•Mid-grey shorts or Pinafore (mid-grey; plain bib front; square cut neck; 12-box pleats)

•Grey socks with school colours or green tights

•Formal black school shoes

•Black slip-on Plimsoles (no dark soles)

•College green joggers (on PE days)

•College storm-proof coat (optional) or plain (no logos) in green, grey or black

*Any other items of clothing (hats, gloves, hair accessories) are to conform in colour (dark green, grey, black) and style so as to be compatible with and not detract from the school uniform.

KINDERGARTEN SUMMER UNIFORM (MAY - SEPTEMBER)

• College gold Polo shirt

• Mid-grey shorts or Pinafore with mid-grey ankle socks or green & white candy-stripe summer dress with plain white ankle socks

*Pupils should not wear summer uniform on cold days when jumpers or other clothing is needed.

JUNIOR SCHOOL WINTER UNIFORM

• College Blazer

• Junior School tie (optional)

• White shirt (with or without revere collar)

• Grey College V-neck jumper or plain grey cardigan

• P1-P3 Pinafore (mid-grey; plain bib front; square cut neck; 12-box pleats) or trousers or shorts both to be plain mid-grey (not dark grey, charcoal or black)

• P4-P7 skirt (mid-grey 8-box pleats) or trousers or shorts both to be plain mid-grey (not dark grey, charcoal or black)

• Grey socks with school colours or green tights. Black tights (P7 only)

• Formal black school shoes

• College storm-proof coat (P1-3 optional)

• School bag – dark green or black (no logos)

• Green College rain jacket (optional)

JUNIOR SCHOOL SUMMER UNIFORM (MAY - SEPTEMBER)

OPTION 1

• Green & white candy-stripe summer dress

• Plain white ankle socks

OPTION 2

• College gold polo shirt

• Plain mid-grey shorts or plain mid-grey trousers or pinafore (P1-P3) or skirt (P4-P7)

• Plain grey ankle socks

SECTION ONE: KEY INFORMATION UNIFORM

JUNIOR SCHOOL PE KIT (P1-P3)

• College gold Polo shirt

• College P.E. shorts or bottle green joggers

• White sports socks

• Trainers (no black soles)

• Green crested sweatshirt

• Junior school P.E. boot bag (optional)

JUNIOR SCHOOL PE KIT (P4-P7)

• College tracksuit *

• College P.E. shirt (round-neck) or games shirt (V-neck)

• Base layer (top/shorts)

• College games bag

• Gum shield

• Towel

*All pupils must come to school wearing their College tracksuit on games days.

HOCKEY RUGBY

• Hockey stick

• Astroturf shoes

• College hockey skort or shorts

• College games socks

• Shin guards

• College P.E. shirt (round-neck) or games shirt (V-neck)

• College mid-layer

• Base layer (optional)

• College games bag

• Gum shield

• Towel

• College rugby shorts

• College games socks

• Trainers or Mouldies (no studded shoes at Glasgow Green (P4)

• Rugby or football boots (P5-P7)

• Gum shield

• College P.E. shirt (round-neck) or games shirt (V-neck)

• College mid-layer

• Base layer (optional)

• College games bag

• Towel

The college uniform supplier is based online and allows you to input measurements of each child to identify the appropriate sizing: schoolblazer.com

Uniform lists and regulations can also be found on our website: staloysius.org

CLOTHING AND PERSONAL BELONGINGS

• Please ensure all school clothing is labelled with your child’s name as it helps us to reunite misplaced garments with their owners.

• Initially Primary 1 are encouraged to wear their polo shirts to school to ease with the dressing and undressing for PE. It would be helpful however, if parents/carers could ensure that their child could do this independently and practise with buttons etc. as this can be very time consuming for the teacher.

• Children should wear school colours for ribbons, hats, gloves and scarves. All children should have a waterproof jacket to wear over their blazer in inclement weather. All school bags should be in school green or dark in colour without logos. Please also ensure all school clothing is clearly labelled with your child’s name as it helps us to reunite misplaced garments with their owners.

• Unnecessary items such as toys, mobile phones (with the exception of P7) etc. should not be brought to school.

SNACKS AND LUNCH

KINDERGARTEN

The Kindergarten children can have lunch provided by the School Refectory which is served within the Kindergarten premises. Menus are issued to the parents a week in advance to allow them to support their child with meal selection. If a child does not like what they have selected, they will be offered further options.

Children who are bringing a packed lunch will have their lunch stored in the Kitchen Area of the Kindergarten. For best practice and hygiene, we ask that your child bring a hard packed lunch box. Children are encouraged to have a healthy lunch whether it be brought from home or provided through the Refectory.

Snack time is an important aspect of the Kindergarten session. Children have the opportunity to become involved in the preparation of healthy food and also take part in the social interaction at the snack table. As we provide all morning and afternoon snacks for the children, there is no need for parents to supply any food or drink.

INFANTSANDJUNIORS

Parents/carers are asked to supply a snack for their child at morning break. In line with the school’s Healthy Eating Policy we would ask that fruit or other healthy snacks be encouraged. We ask that nut-based snacks are not brought into school. Our Primary 7s can purchase a morning snack each day in the Refectory.

For lunch, parents/carers and their child have the option of either supplying their own packed lunch or a hot lunch can be purchased from the Refectory. We have a fantastic Refectory which serves a good variety of hot and cold food each day.

We run a cashless system in the refectory and children are given a swipe card to purchase items at the till. We design all our meals in order to encourage our children to eat healthily. Cards can be topped up by parents through Parent Pay, an online resource, or with cash or cheque at the Junior School Reception. Details of accounts will be sent to you directly. Children are encouraged to make healthy choices from the food available. Our menus are available on our website.

The college operates a ‘nut-free’ environment from Kindergarten to S6 due to allergies. We will also update parents as required on other allergies which may have an impact on what items can be brought into school for snacks and lunches.

SECTION ONE: KEY INFORMATION ABSENCES

We wish to ensure the safety of your child at all times and request the help and support of all of our parents. We have various systems in place to ensure that child absences are notified quickly.

•Please note that it is your responsibility as a parent/carer to notify the Kindergarten or Junior School of absences no later than 9.30am.

•If late to Junior School, once your child arrives, they should report to Reception and sign in our late book.

•Our school Administration team will call parents if a child is marked absent and no call has been received.

•From 9.30am, if a child has not appeared at school as expected, we will contact you on the first day of your child’s absence.

•A letter stating the reason for a child’s absence should be given to your child’s class teacher on the first day back at school after an illness.

•We ask parents/carers to update the contact information held by the school to ensure it is accurate and up to date. Please update new house or mobile numbers as soon as possible either in writing to updateinfo@staloysius.org or by contacting Reception.

•We seek your continued support in operating this policy to ensure that all of our children are safe. Tel: 0141 331 9200 | Email: jsadmin@staloysius.org

If your child is going to be late or absent we ask that you inform our school Reception each day.

SECTIONONE:KEYINFORMATION

ILLNESSANDMEDICATION

If your child is at all unwell we strongly advise you to keep your child at home, both for their own sake and to prevent the possible spread of any infection. If a child falls ill during a session we will contact you if necessary. If your child has a communicable infection, including a heavy cold, we would appreciate if you let us know.

We are permitted to administer medicine to your child but only those which have been prescribed for them and labelled with their name. Any medications must be handed into the School Nurse who will request that you complete an Administra-tion of Medication form for your child.

We are governed by the Care Inspectorate Standards and they do not permit us to administer off-the-shelf medication. All staff hold current First Aid Qualifications and will treat all minor bumps scrapes, cuts.

You will be informed of these via a home report or a wristband if they sustain a minor head bump. We have a registered school nurse on site at all times. It is the responsibility of parent/carers to ensure that the contact information we hold is up to date at all times.

SECTIONONE:KEYINFORMATION

KINDERGARTEN TOOTHBRUSHING

In line with good practice in Health Promotion, all the children in Kindergarten brush their teeth daily. We have a hygienic system set up and resourced for us by the dental service, with each child having their own named brush stored safely in a “toothbrush bus”. This helps to establish good habits in the children for life.

SECTIONONE:KEYINFORMATION PASTORAL

At the heart of the Junior School approach to pastoral care and wellbeing is what we call ‘Cura Personalis’, care for the entire person. We know every child individually, which allows us to support, encourage and challenge them appropriately and with care.

All our staff contribute to our nurturing and welcoming environment and this provides a safe space for children to take risks and to explore learning, knowing they are secure and cared for by the community that surrounds them.

The pastoral care and wellbeing of our young people in Junior School is overseen by Mrs Emma Doherty, JS Depute: Pastoral who has a responsibility for ensuring the College is meeting their social and emotional needs. We delight in building a strong partnership with parents, families and carers to ensure our young people are at the centre of all we do.

SECTIONONE:KEYINFORMATION

ADDITIONALSUPPORT

The Junior School has a dedicated Additional Support team who work with pupils who may require additional guidance or support to develop their understanding of concepts within the classroom. This support can be either long or short-term or can simply refer to the help a young person needs in getting through a difficult period in their life. They work closely with class teachers to develop individual programmes of work as well as enhanced programmes of learning in addition to core class work, depending on the needs of the individual child.

SECTION ONE: KEY INFORMATION HEALTH AND SAFETY

We strive to maintain high standards of Health and Safety. Parents and carers can help us by observing the following safety precautions:

•A security system is in operation on all access points on the campus.

•The door of the Kindergarten requires to be opened from the outside using the security code by adults only. Please take care that only your child leaves the Kindergarten with you and do not allow them to touch the security exit button, the procedures that are in place are for the safety of the children.

•When accessing the Junior School building, this must be done solely through the front entrance.

•Please do not hold the door for others to enter the buildings.

•Please note that there is priority parking for Kindergarten parents in the Junior School playground. You will be issued with permits to display so the janitors can identify those who are permitted to park. We would ask you that, as space is limited, you exit the area as quickly as possible and also, more importantly, that you do not allow your child to play in this area while you wait for older children or chat to other parents.

•Each morning the lane behind the Junior School is used to drop off of pupils in Primary 1-6. Pupils are met by staff and escorted safely to the playground. Primary 7 pupils are dropped off outside the Sport Hall.

•At the end of the day, the gates to the playground open at 2.40pm to allow parents access to the lower playground parking. Once pupils are dismissed and collected by parents/carers the gates will reopen for cars to leave. The car park should be cleared by 3.30pm to allow the playground to be used for clubs and After School Care.

SECTIONONE:KEYINFORMATION

USEFULDATES2023/24

Outlined below are some of the key dates for parents/carers. Please note that the college calendar is regularly updated on the website, and a ‘Dates for the Diary’ update is emailed to parents each Friday to allow for planning of events relevant to your child’s year group.

Term begins (Pupils return)

Prize Giving

September Weekend

October Week

Staff Day 4

St Andrews Feast Day

Term Ends

Christmas/New Year

Thurs, 17th August 2023

Thurs, 7th September 2023

Fri, 22nd - Mon, 25th September 2023

Mon, 16th - Fri, 20th October 2023

Fri, 3rd November 2023

Fri, 1stDecember 20223 (school closed)

Wed, 20th December 2023 (half-day)

Term begins

February Week

Staff Day 5

St John Ogilvie Feast Day

Term Ends

Easter Holiday

Term Begins

May Day

May Weekend

Term Ends

Wed, 21st December 2023 – Fri, 5th January 2024 (inclusive)

Mon, 8th January 2024

Mon, 12th – Fri 16th February 2024

Mon, 19th February 2024

Fri, 8th March 2024 (half day)

Thurs, 28th March 2024

Fri, 29th March - Fri, 12th April 2024

Mon, 15th April 2024

Mon, 6th May 2024

Fri, 24th - Mon, 27th May 2024 (inclusive)

Thurs, 20th June 2024 (half day)

SECTION ONE: KEY INFORMATION

PARENT INFORMATION SESSIONS

Kindergarten Session

Primary 1 Session

Primary 2 Session

Primary 3 Session

Primary 4 Session

Primary 5 Session

Primary 6 Session

Primary 7 Session

Mon 11th September at 2.30pm

Tue 29th August at 2.30pm

Thurs 31st August at 2.30pm

Tue 5th September at 2.30pm

Wed 30th August at 2.30pm

Mon 4th September at 2.30pm

Fri 8th September at 2.30pm

Wed 6th September at 2.30pm

SECTION ONE: KEY INFORMATION MASSES

Ascensio Scholarum Mass

Our Lady of the Rosary

Mass for the Feast of All Saints

Junior School Carol Service

Sacrament of Reconciliation

Mass for the Feast of St John Ogilvie

Mass for the Feast of Ascension

First Holy Communion

Mass for the Feast of St. Aloysius and P7 Leavers’ Mass

Fri 25th August at 9.20am

Fri 6th October at 9.20am

Wed 1st November at 9.20am

Wed 14th December at 2pm

Sat 2nd March at 10am

Mon 11th March at 9.20am

Thurs 9th May at 9.20am

Sun 19th May at 2.15pm

Wed 19th June at 9.20am

SECTIONONE:KEYINFORMATION

PARTNERSHIPFUNDING

St Aloysius’ College Kindergarten works in partnership with local councils to deliver 1140 funded hours on a term-time basis*. This means our core funded Kindergarten hours are:

Monday to Friday 8.30am – 3pm

Outwith these core hours, we offer chargeable hours through our pre-booked wraparound care service as follows:

*subject to application and acceptance.

EARLY YEARS

Dear Parents/Carers

The staff at St Aloysius’ College extend a very warm welcome to you and your child and look forward to a happy and productive association. We hope that your child will feel secure and happy here and that the time they spend at Kindergarten will provide the kind of experiences and opportunities which will set them on the road to becoming confident lifelong learners, capitalising on their individual strengths and qualities and recognising that education can and will have a significant positive impact on their lives.

We value the important role that you play in the all-round development of your child and aim to support this by seeking your co-operation in partnership with us. We welcome parents and are keen to encourage you to take an active role in the life of the College. We keep all parents and carers informed of all activities and events so that you can get involved as much as you are able.

This booklet is provided to familiarise parents with our aims, our methods and our organisation, so that home and school can combine to foster the all-round development of children. It is hoped that parents will find the booklet informative and that it will encourage and enhance the liaison that exists between us. Please note that the information contained within this booklet is accurate at the time of compilation (May 2021) but may be subject to changes as we continuously review and hopefully improve our offer to families.

Finally, please do not hesitate to contact us should you have any queries about your child’s Early Years experience. Open and frequent communication helps a close partnership to develop and we would actively encourage you to contact a member of the Kindergarten team or class teacher at an early stage should you have any questions, however minor they may seem. Where possible, we would appreciate if an appointment could be made – but if you need to speak to someone urgently, this will be organised. By the same token we will also aim to contact you as often as we can, not just if we have a concern, but also to communicate positively about your child and their successes.

KAREN BROWN JUNIOR SCHOOL DEPUTE: EARLY YEARS

CURRICULUM

KINDERGARTEN:LEARNINGTHROUGHPLAY

It may seem on first sight that the children ‘just play’. However, each part of the Kindergarten environment is planned and set up carefully to facilitate the children’s learning through play. The curriculum in Kindergarten is based on the Characteristics of a Jesuit Education and acknowledging the principles of Curriculum for Excellence.

The Kindergarten uses See Saw to provide daily updates to provide parents and carers with insight into the day-to-day life and work of Kindergarten.

PRIMARY1TO3:LEARNINGPROGRESSION

Our curriculum is planned and set up carefully using active learning approaches, building upon the early foundations established in Kindergarten and Nursery. The curriculum in St Aloysius’ College Junior School is based increasingly on the characteristics of a Jesuit Education and acknowledging the principles of Curriculum for Excellence.

The Jesuit Pupil Profile which has been developed to propose a simple but challenging statement of the qualities we seek to develop in pupils in Jesuit schools, using key words which unfold Ignatius’ own stated aim of “improvement in living and learning for the greater glory of God and the common good.”

The principles underpinning the curriculum design are;

Challenge and enjoyment

Breadth

Progression

Relevance

Depth

Personalisation and Choice

Coherence

SECTION 2 KINDERGARTEN

SECTION TWO: KINDERGARTEN SETTLING IN

We appreciate that starting school can be an emotional time for many parents and children. We know that some children will settle faster than others.

We will take the time to get to know your child, providing them with relaxed opportunities to choose what and with whom they want to play with.

Try not to be anxious about leaving your child if she or he is crying. The staff are experienced in dealing with these situations and have strategies to help them. Settling in is different for every child. Preparation can always help, so over the holidays there are some books you could share with your child:

• ‘My First Day at Nursery’ by Becky Edwards and Anthony Flintoff

• ‘Maisy goes to Playschool’

On your child’s first day in Kindergarten, they will be welcomed by a member of staff who will be their Key Worker. We operate a Key Worker system whereby each staff member has a group of around ten children.

The Key Worker is the main adult responsible for settling the children in their group. The groups are; the Bluebells, the Thistles, the Brambles, and the Heathers. These are also the children’s groups for Specialist Teachers of PE, Science, Modern Foreign Language and Music.

Children all settle at different rates, therefore, after the first day, please be guided by the staff as to the length of time your child (and possibly you too) should stay until he/she is fully confident and happy.

You are free to discuss concerns and seek information from any staff member.

SECTION TWO: KINDERGARTEN

KEY STAFF

JUNIOR SCHOOL DEPUTE: EARLY YEARS

SECTION TWO: KINDERGARTEN

REGISTRATION PROCEDURES

BEGINNING OF THE DAY

•Children should be accompanied to the cloakroom area where they should hang their coat on their named peg and put any additional belongings in their labelled tray.

• Parents / carers should sign their child in and indicate who will be collecting their child.

• Children then self-register by posting their name and making their own sign or mark on the whiteboard.

•Parents should then accompany their child to one of the play areas where you will be met by staff.

•When both you and your child are ready you should say goodbye and leave. Gradually we will encourage you to leave your child at the cloakroom door with a staff member.

•All children are dropped off at the Kindergarten door

•Staff members will be on hand to take your child into the cloakroom area

•Staff will sign your child in

• Child will then wash their hands and then enter the playroom

PICK UP

• Parents and carers should start to arrive no earlier than 3pm. If their child is staying for a full day. Please advise staff if your child is initially staying for a shorter day.

• A member of staff will call your child to meet you in the cloakroom.

• Please take time to talk to staff, your child and other parents.

• Eventually your child will have work placed in their drawer and we would encourage you to take the time to discuss this with them.

MRS KAREN BROWN

MRS LAURA HART SENIOR KINDERGARTEN PRACTITIONER

SECTION TWO: KINDERGARTEN

HOW PARENTS CAN BE INVOLVED

We are always keen to have parents/guardians/childminders help in the Kindergarten and have a Helpers Rota each week. Below are ways in which parents have helped us in the past:

• The weekly lending library

• Accompanying the children on outings (parents must have PVG through the College to participate)

In addition, we are always willing to share ideas with you and if you would like to suggest items to be incorporated into our planning or advice on activities to try at home with your child, please ask the Kindergarten Team.

Kindergarten uses the app See Saw as a digital learning journal for our young children. This is a learning journal that provides parents and carers with photos, videos, observations and comments to build a record of the child’s experiences in line with the curriculum. See Saw is also used to communicate any important dates and plans to parents and carers.

SECTIONTWO:KINDERGARTEN PROGRESSIONINTO JUNIORSCHOOL

The Kindergarten works closely with the school and shares facilities and specialist teachers of the Junior School. The Kindergarten children are also included in school special events.

There is close liaison between the Kindergarten and the school to ensure a smooth progression from Kindergarten into Primary 1.

SECTION THREE INFANTS: P1-P3

SECTION THREE: INFANTS SETTLING IN

STARTING IN INFANTS

On the first morning, the school day will commence at 8.55am for P2 - P7 pupils in Junior School Reception. New P1 pupils will start the day at 9.30am. Please accompany your child to the rear playground where they will be met by their class teacher. The teacher will escort the class to their classroom.

Please take the opportunity to accompany your child into the classroom where the teacher will have allocated

• a labelled peg on the coat stand

• initial seats for all children in the classroom

• a labelled box for lunch boxes

When your child is settled, please say goodbye and leave the room. From day two, P2-7 pupils should report to the Junior School playground. Primary 1 will be met by Classroom Assistants and taken to the Atrium.

We know that each child is special and some children will skip into school on the first day with hardly a look back, but for others the transition may take a little longer. If you feel your child is taking a little longer to settle, then please stay with him/her for a short while. We do find from experience, however, that often a child will only settle when his/her parents/carers have left the room.

For Primary 1 and 2, the school day ends at 3.15pm and for Primary 3 it ends at 3.20pm. All children will be dismissed from the rear of the Junior School Building.

Please inform staff if another adult is collecting your child through the school homework diary or by telephoning reception on 0141 331 9200. Children should not be collected or brought by anyone under 16 years of age

Please feel free to discuss concerns and seek information from Mrs Brown or the class teacher.

SECTION THREE: INFANTS HOMEWORK

Each evening a small amount of homework is given which consolidates work being covered in class. In P1 and 2 this should take a maximum of 20 minutes and comprises of reading, word revision and either a Language or Mathematics worksheet. By P3 homework time increases to a maximum of 30 minutes per night comprising of reading, spelling, Mathematics or Language focused homework and basic research skills.

We know and understand the importance of family time at the weekend therefore there is no homework sent home at this time. However, teachers may occasionally use this to send home unfinished or extra work for your child. Parental input is important to make the most of this time to consolidate class work. We very much value the support you give your child and, during the course of the year, we will run some parent workshops to give you some tips on how you can effectively help your child in Reading and Mathematics. As the children progress through the school they are expected to complete their homework with increasing independence.

In Term 3 we offer a small selection of clubs, including Homework Club to our Primary 3 pupils which runs from 3.30-4.30pm. This prepares the children for After School activities in Primary 4.

Please do not hesitate to speak with teachers if you are unsure of how to cover any aspect of work with your child. A simple note to the teacher via Schoology is also a useful tool in informing teachers if your child is taking too long over their homework.

SECTIONTHREE:INFANTS

LEARNINGJOURNALS/SEESAW

Early Years also use the See Saw app as a digital learning journal for our young children. This is a learning journal that provides parents and carers with photos, videos, observations and comments to build a record of the child’s experiences in line with the curriculum. See Saw is also used to communicate any important dates and plans to parents and carers.

SECTIONTHREE:INFANTS

PROGRESSIONTOJUNIORS

As part of the transition journey for our Primary 3 pupils moving into Primary 4 in the new academic year we introduce aspects of the Junior curriculum to their timetable in term 3.

The children will participate in Games sessions as we near the end of the year, this is introduced to allow them to get used to travelling off site to Millerston/ Glasgow Green, and work with our Sport Coaches as they begin their rugby and hockey training. On Games days the children travel to school dressed in their games kit and bring their uniform with them to change into to return to school for lunch.

We also introduce some after school clubs for Primary 3 to participate in. This again prepares them for an extended day in school if parents wish them to do so. These are all optional activities that the children can sign up to attend.

JUNIORS: P4 - P7

Dear Parents/Carers

Working alongside the pupils and my colleagues within the Junior Section of the school is a wonderful experience. Progression into the Juniors Section of our school brings new opportunities to further develop the skills and knowledge developed in Early Years. From Core subjects, Languages and Science to Outdoor Education and residential trips abroad we aim to build a sense of self- efficacy and self- confidence in our young people.

Our staff have a depth of pastoral and academic experience and this means that we are able to integrate children new to the school quickly and allow them to feel part of our vibrant community. We use a buddy system initially to help them get to know their peers. We also encourage all our pupils to get involved in the range of After School Clubs that are available to meet and work with pupils from different classes and stages and to extend their circle of friends.

We want your child to be part of our community so please, no matter how small you think the issue is, get in touch with us. A happy child will learn and we work tirelessly to ensure each pupil in our school succeeds.

Our doors are open at any time so please don’t hesitate to get in contact.

FRANK McHUGH

JUNIOR SCHOOL DEPUTE: LEARNING AND TEACHING

SECTIONFOUR:JUNIORS SETTLINGIN

STARTINGINJUNIORS

It is very important that children entering the school from P4 - P7 settle quickly into the community of the school through Taster Days and our Induction Day. Children are buddied with pupils so that they begin to find friends from the very start.

On the first morning, the school day will commence at 8.55am. Please accompany your child to Reception on the ground floor where they will be met by class teachers and one of our Deputes . The children will go to the Science Room on the Ground Floor where they will be reunited with their buddies.

As part of the process of settling into their new school, our teachers will be working to ensure your child gets to know their peers and school routines quickly. It is of course very important to us, especially in the first few weeks, that links are formed between home and school. If your child is unhappy please do not hesitate to call us to let us know. No matter how small or trivial it may seem please contact us - we want your child to be happy right from the start.

Over the course of their first year, and beyond, we check in regularly to make sure that they have settled well and made friends.

Please feel free to discuss any concerns or to ask for information from Mr McHugh or class teachers.

PRIMARY7

Pupils joining Primary 7 from schools other than our Junior School will have had the opportunity for ‘Taster Days’ to experience life in the College. In the summer term, we have a ‘Transition Day’ where all new Primary 7 pupils come together to enjoy each other’s company and to experience some of our specialist teaching, beginning to build relationships with both staff and peers. It is a day of challenge and fun, of laughter and excitement and it gives them a shared experience to draw on and revisit when they start School together in August.

Pupils in Primary 7 should have their own iPad for use in school. This also allows them access to their homework assignments, and to contact their class teacher if needed.

SECTION FOUR: JUNIORS CURRICULUM

In our school, pupil voice is very important and the views and opinions of all pupils are listened to, respected and acted upon. Our pupils are taught using a variety of methodologies in discrete subject areas and through integrated topic work.

Our curriculum aims to ensure that every child, no matter their strengths or needs, can fulfil their potential. It has a strong academic and moral foundation built on over 500 years of Ignatian tradition in education and we know what works! We have our roots in history but we are forward-looking in encompassing the best that technology and curriculum development have to offer.

The principles of Scottish curriculum design are –

Challenge and Enjoyment

Depth

Breadth

Personalisation and Choice

Progression

Coherence

Relevance

all of which are built in to our own curriculum.

We will build a strong foundation in the Junior School to ensure your child is equipped with the skills and knowledge they need for their future learning. Our aim is class full of happy, learning children, confident and secure in their abilities and in their potential to grow.

We will keep you updated regularly on their progress and we will both challenge and support as required.

We celebrate being a Catholic school and this will be evident in our buildings and in our ethos. We hope to develop a strong sense of morality and spirituality in our pupils and we have clearly stated aims on the type of young women and men we want to see leaving our school when the time comes. These are to be found in the Jesuit Pupil Profile which outlines the characteristics and personal traits that a Jesuit Education should impart, characteristics that people of all faiths and none would recognise and want for their children.

CURRICULUM

Sport is a core aspect of our curriculum, not only for each child’s fitness, but also to build teamwork and friendships. There is a timetabled PE lesson each week in addition to their Games session. These take place off site at Millerston, the College training ground, or Glasgow Green Hockey Centre. Pupils travel by bus accompanied by PE teachers and Sport Coaches. On Games days the children travel to school in their Games kit with uniform brought to change prior to returning for lunch.

In Primary 6 and 7 there is an additional afterschool session of Hockey and Rugby which pupils are encouraged to attend. This additional session prepares pupils for Saturday matches/training (P6/7 Rugby and P7 Hockey)

A timetable will be issued to you early in the new session. The timetable will show when your child will receive specialist teachers and the other core subjects in the curriculum taught by the class teacher. More information about the curriculum and its delivery will be given at the Parent Workshop in September.

We are very keen to encourage Music in the school and individual music lessons are available during the day from visiting teachers, please contact Junior School Reception if you are interested. We have Junior and Infant Choirs, and Orchestra during lunchtimes. We also have a Schola for boys and girls for which children are auditioned and receive expert tuition in both singing and a musical instrument.

SECTIONFOUR:JUNIORS HOMEWORK

From Monday-Thursday, homework is given which generally aims to consoli-date work being covered in class. In Primary 4, 5 and 6 this should take a maximum of 45 minutes and comprises of either Language or Mathematics homework. By Primary 7 homework time increases to a maximum of 60 minutes alternating between core subjects, specialist subjects and basic research skills.

Homework may be given through Schoology, our online learning platform which all our pupils have used extensively. Communication between parents and class teachers can be through this channel or through the homework diary

We know and understand the importance of family time so therefore as a rule, no homework is sent home at the weekend.

We very much value the support you give your child and, during the course of the year we will run some parent information workshops to give you some helpful hints on how you can effectively help your child with their homework. As children progress through the school they are expected to complete their homework with increasing independence. However, it is important that all paper homework is signed and homework diaries signed by parents/carers. Please also check Schoology regularly to keep abreast of classwork and home-work. This helps to support your child’s organisational skills, responsibility and pride in their work. We have a small leaflet on homework which can be picked up from our Reception.

Please do not hesitate to speak with teachers if you are unsure of any aspect of school work given to your child. If your child is struggling with homework, please curtail the session and let your child’s teacher know. Homework is meant to consolidate work in the classroom and your child should be able to do this with relative ease.

SECTION FIVE: COMMUNICATION

PARTNERSHIPS WITH PARENTS

You are your child’s main educator and you know them best. We aim to work in partnership with you and always appreciate any information on your child’s interests or progress at home that you would like to share with us. This is often very beneficial in getting to know and understand your child.

SECTION FIVE: COMMUNICATION

HOME AND SCHOOL

In the Junior School we are always open and welcoming to all our parents. We operate an open door policy whereby parents are welcome to have informal chats with their child’s Class Teacher at the beginning or end of the school day. However, if you wish to meet your child’s Teacher in a more formal manner, please contact the Junior School Reception on 0141 331 9200, or at jsadmin@staloysius.org and they will be happy to make an appointment for you.

If there is something more pressing that you wish to discuss with the School, then please contact the appropriate Depute, who will also be happy to meet with you at short notice. This can be arranged directly by contacting Junior School Reception. Email contacts for Senior Staff are given below.

kbrown@staloysius.org

edoherty@staloysius.org

fmchugh@staloysius.org

Emma Doherty Junior School Depute Pastoral

Karen Brown Junior School Depute Early Years

Frank McHugh Junior School Depute Learning & Teaching

SECTION FIVE: COMMUNICATION PROGRESS AND REPORTING

Pupil progress is reported across the Infant and Junior sections (from Primary 1 upwards) via Gradebooks which are uploaded to the Parent Portal.

GRADEBOOK - INFANTS

In the early stages of your child’s education we are building a firm foundation in the basic skills. We want children to feel confident and believe in their abilities – a happy child will learn. We track each child’s learning through formative assessments and use our weekly Learning Journals to inform parents of their child’s progress

During term 3, as part of their transition into Juniors, in Primary 3 are assessed in Language and Mathematics. These online modular assessment grades follow a similar format to Junior Grades and allow parents and teachers pinpoint strengths and weakness and differentiate class work accordingly. If there are any concerns with regard to progress in class, this is discussed with parents/carers prior to the Gradebook being issued.

GRADEBOOK - JUNIORS

Our online assessment grades, which plot each child’s progress in all aspects of their work, help give parents a good indication of how their child is progressing. All children from Primary 4 to Primary 7 are assessed in Mathematics, Language, Humanities, RE, Science, Art, Music and French/Spanish/Italian. These assessments generally centre around an eight-week programme of work. Children are continually assessed to see how well they are progressing and also to identify next steps in their learning. Towards the end of an eight week programme the pupils will have a summative assessment to gauge understanding and to inform future planning. This type of ‘modular’ assessment is graded according to the Junior School grading scale and an effort grade is also given at this point. Using this system, teachers can easily pinpoint strengths and weakness and differentiate class work accordingly.

We hope that you will take full advantage of these links but please do not hesitate to contact your child’s Class Teacher or Junior School Deputes at any time to discuss any aspect of your child’s progress.

PROGRESSANDREPORTING

REPORTS

There are two written reports prepared for parents each year. Our Interim Report is uploaded in December and gives a overview of your child’s progress for Term 1. A fuller End of Year report is provided in June and gives an overall report of the progress made across the entire academic year.

PARENTS’EVENINGS

In addition, Parents’ Evenings take place in Term 1 and at the end of Term 2. These provide further opportunities to discuss your child’s progress looking at settling in aspects, strengths and weakness and advice on how support can be given to your child both at home and at school.

There are two Parents Evening sessions over the course of the year. The first of these takes place during Term 1. For academic year 2023/24 these will take place on Wednesday, 4th and Thursday, 5th October 2023. During the first sets of meetings, parents can access Specialist teachers for a discussion on progress if required.

The second set of meetings take place in Term 2, these will be held on Wednesday, 20th and Thursday, 21st March 2024.

SECTION FIVE:

CONTACT WITH THE SCHOOL

In dealing with enquiries, letters, concerns or complaints from parents, College staff will try their best to:

• Reply promptly (usually within 48-hours, even if this is just to let you know a matter is being dealt with and we will get back to you)

• Be friendly, courteous and supportive

• Be professional (and this may sometimes mean we do not agree with you and must put forward a view or make a decision that you may not like - but we will always explain our reasons) The school is very large and for matters to be dealt with effectively it is important that they are directed to the most appropriate person.

SCHOOL QUERY TYPE

KG/Junior School

KG/Junior School

Day-to-day questions and concerns

More serious concerns or complaints

WHO TO CONTACT

Class Teacher, Key Worker, or Junior School Depute

Junior School Depute or Head Master

In the Junior School, the Class Teacher/Key Worker is happy to speak to parents about everyday concerns and minor problems. Parents are asked to make contact by booking in at Reception. If the teacher is available a meeting can often be arranged there and then, if not the parent will be seen by the Junior School Depute or an appointment made for another time. Parents must not go directly to the classroom to see the Teacher/Key Worker. If you are dissatisfied with the response you have received or with the resolution, please write to the Head Master. You will find a list of contact telephone numbers and email addresses on the school website. A College Complaints Policy is available in the Policy Section of the College website.

PARENTAL EMAIL

The College uses email as the principal means of contacting parents. It would be helpful if you could check your junk or spam folders regularly to ensure all email from the College is marked as safe. Email is the quickest and most efficient means of contacting parents. Please ensure we have your most up-todate email address and check your inbox regularly. We send out regular ‘Dates for Diaries’ to ensure parents are kept informed about upcoming events or changes to the calendar.

CONTACTWITHTHESCHOOL

PUPILUSEOFMOBILEPHONES

Mobile phones may only be brought to school by pupils who use public transport so that parents can keep in contact with their children as they travel. All mobile phones should be switched off during the school day and handed into the Class Teacher. Children should not send or receive text message from parents during the day. Mobile phones used for travel to school should be simple and functional. We ask that parents are vigilant of messages, photographs and internet sites that may be sent, received or accessed by your child. Please report any misuse of mobile phones by any of our pupils as soon as possible.

SECTIONFOUR:COMMUNICATION ONLINE TOOLS WEBSITE

The school website can be accessed at www.staloysius.org. Please take some time to familiarise yourself with the information in the ‘Our Values’ section. This lays out our aspirations for Aloysian pupils and explains the unique nature of a Jesuit education.

For parents, the key section is ‘Parent Information’ in ‘Aloysian Life’ It is a good idea to save this as a bookmark or favourite on your smartphone, computer or tablet. In this section, you can find up-to-date information such as news, notices, music rotas, co-curricular timetables and Refectory menus. Key contacts and calendar events are also available in this section.

Saturday sports fixture information is also a key resource accessed via the website. Please save www.staloysius.org/sportsfixtures as a bookmark or favourite. The status of sports fixtures (i.e. on, off) and the venue/date information is updated live on-site for your convenience.

SCHOOLOGY

Schoology is a protected, social media website which allows teachers, pupils and parents to collaborate in education, creating, managing and sharing content. Teachers can use the site to post discussion questions, homework, files, links, and other information. Students are able to access all class information, participate in class discussions, stay organised with a school calendar, download and print files from home, and much more. Parents are able to observe their student’s assignments and calendars while staying involved in their education www.schoology.com.

ONLINETOOLS

MYSCHOOLPORTAL

My School Portal is your main communication source as a parent or carer. When you login to the portal, you will be able to access your child's timetable, attendance records, reports as well as a range of school information. This is where the majority of school emails will be sent through. You will receive an email notification and all emails will be stored in the portal. You will still email the school via your child's Class Teacher or Junior School Depute for any individual contact of an academic or pastoral nature, however, whole school or group emails will be sent via the portal. You can access the portal via the College website.

The portal is a new software and will launch at the beginning of the new term. More information on this will follow separately.

E-SAFETYCENTRE

The College e-safety centre is designed to provide you with information and advice that is easy to access and simple to understand. There are short, stepby-step prompt cards to ensure you and your child have a safer online experience. Please save this link to access www.staloysius-safetycentre.co.uk

SOCIALMEDIA

College social media is an effective way for parents to enjoy a snapshot of life at St Aloysius’ College and also to interact with other College parents as part of our community. It also allows us to promote the College to a wider audience. We try to share as many aspects of College life as possible, although this can sometimes be difficult as there are so many events happening every day! It is important to remember that the social media pages are not used for basic information sharing, please refer to the website for this.

Keep your eyes peeled for fun photographs and news from Hill Street by following our Facebook page: facebook.com/stalsglasgow, Twitter: twitter.com/stalsglasgow and Instagram: instagram.com/staloysiusglasgow.

SHAREYOURSTORIES

Should you have any stories to share about your child, or success stories, please do let us know by contacting communications@staloysius.org.

CHILDPROTECTION&COMPLAINTS

SECURITYCODES

All buildings in St Aloysius’ College have security code access to allow staff to monitor any visitors to the school. Security codes are changed on a regular basis and parents are requested to buzz and enter via the main Reception at the front of the building when arriving outwith normal drop-off and pick-up times. If visiting or attending events in the Junior School building, parents are requested to sign in at Reception where they will be allocated a badge or asked to sign our fire safety list.

CHILDPROTECTIONGUIDELINES

St Aloysius’ College Kindergarten and Junior School is committed to working in partnership with parents. As well as constantly striving to build children’s self-esteem and confidence, we place a high importance on the safety and protection of children. St Aloysius’ College has in place Child Protection Guidelines that all staff must follow where there are concerns about a child. Should any parent wish to see the Guidelines, these can be made available.

Finally, please do not hesitate to contact us should you have any concerns about any aspect of your child’s education or would like further information on any aspect of the School curriculum.

Kindergarten Tel: 0141 331 9262

Junior School Contact Number: 0141 331 9200

Email: edoherty@staloysius.org

CONCERNSANDCOMPLAINTS

If you have any concerns about any aspect of the Kindergarten we would encourage you to speak to the Kindergarten staff in the first instance. You can also ask to speak to Mr Doyle or Mrs Brown. In addition, the contact address below is available to parents.

Care Inspectorate

4th Floor

No 1 Smithhills Street

Paisley PA1 1EB Helpline: 0141 843 6840

If you any concerns about any aspect of the Junior School, we would encourage you to speak to the staff in the first instance. You can also ask to speak to Mr Doyle, Mrs Brown, Mr McHugh or Mrs Doherty. See also the full policy on the school website.