YGG Felindre

YSGOL GYNRADD GYMRAEG FELINDRE PROSPECTUS 2008/09

CONTENTS Introduction Head Teacher’s welcome Staff Governors’ message Governing body School facilities School and community School transport Language policy School ethos Cultural activities Music Sport Extra-curricular activities Parent Teacher Association Uniform School aims Admissions Teaching hours and times

Term dates & holidays Class sizes and year groups Teaching in the school Themes Homework policy The curriculum Key skills Formal assessment Secondary education Religious Education Health & sex education Pastoral care Behaviour policy Special needs education Payment for visits Complaints procedure Documentation

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HEAD TEACHER’S WELCOME At Ysgol Gynradd Gymraeg Felindre we aim to provide the best possible education for the children under our care, so that they can achieve their full potential. It is important to emphasise quality and high standards, but first it must be ensured that the children are confident as they work and comfortable with their studies, in order that they are ready to develop to their full ability.

Educating our children is achieved through a partnership between the children, the teachers and home, all working together for the child's sake. In order that we achieve this, an open, comfortable atmosphere, conducive to communication - is vital. We provide a supportive, constructive ethos, which encourages the children to develop academically, aesthetically, socially, psychologically and spiritually.

We believe that children have a right to a broad, stimulating education, which offers challenges as well as aiming to raise standards. We therefore highlight the importance of a broad range and variety of activities and experiences. Each individual has his/her strengths, and it is vital that we bear this in mind. We emphasise development on all levels, with each individual as an equal, deserving equal opportunities. Our staff aim to provide the very best education possible in order that the children reach their potential. We aim to do this in an environment that promotes confidence and willingness to learn, striving to achieve our school motto “Nid da lle gellir gwell” (Though good is good, better is better).

TEACHING STAFF Ms Catrin Pugh Jones Head Teacher / Key Stage 2 Teacher Mrs Katrin Parkhouse Key Stage 2 Teacher ( Part Time ) Mrs Tracey Griffiths Foundation Phase Teacher

NON-TEACHING STAFF Mrs Kimberly Hughes

- Nursery Nurse (N.N.E.B.)

Miss Hayley Rees

- Part Time Teaching Assistant

Mrs Heather Davies

- School Secretary

Mrs Brenda Jones

- Senior Supervisory Assistant

Mrs Phyllis Bell

- Supervisory Assistant Caretaker/ Cleaner

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CHAIRMAN OF GOVERNORS’ MESSAGE I would like to welcome Welsh and non-Welsh speaking parents who wish their children to receive Welsh medium education, to visit Ysgol Felindre. The school offers all the traditional advantages of a village school as well as a modern education of high quality.

The school offers an exceptionally pleasant environment for learning. The buildings and grounds are excellent, well equipped and safe. Set back from a quiet village road, in splendid unspoilt surroundings, we have plenty of room for learning and playing. Since it is a small school, the staff know all the pupils and their parents personally and this leads to close collaboration for the benefit of the pupils. This also means that every child, whatever his or her age, ability or circumstances, has an opportunity to participate in every aspect of the school's activities. Nobody gets left out.

The governing body sees its job as being to work with the staff in order to keep this special environment - an environment that ensures that the children receive a full and effective education, designed to prepare them for secondary school and for developing into responsible and confident individuals within society.

We are fortunate in having a highly committed Staff who, like the parents, give freely of their own time for the benefit of the school and the children. Everyone involved with Ysgol Felindre is proud of the school; staff, parents, pupils, neighbours and governors. In an age where childhood appears sometimes to be in danger of disappearing under the pressure of competitiveness and keeping up with the rush, our school demonstrates how a homely, civilised environment can promote and complement the requirements of Welsh medium education at the beginning of the twenty first century.

GOVERNING BODY Mrs Lynne Morgan

- Chairman/ Parent Governor

Mrs H Jones

- Vice-Chairman/ Mawr CC Governor

Mrs Anne Gimblett

- L.E.A. Representative

Mr Leyton Jones

- Parent Governor

Ms Eryl Jones

- Parent Governor

Miss Tracey Griffiths

- Teacher Governor

Mrs Phyllis Bell

- Non-Teaching Staff Governor

Mr Huw Morgan

- Co-opted Governor

Mrs Joanne Davies

- Co-opted Governor

Miss Silvia Arrowsmith

- L.E.A. Representative

Ms Catrin Pugh Jones

- Headteacher

Mrs Heather Davies

- Clerk to the Governors

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AN EXCEPTIONAL LEARNING ENVIRONMENT  Ysgol Gynradd Gymraeg Felindre is situated in the attractive village of Felindre, just a short distance from Pontlliw, Penllergaer, Llangyfelach and Craig Cefn Parc in the City & County of Swansea. It is a vibrant and progressive Designated Welsh School, at the heart of the community. A positive and caring ethos permeates all aspects of school life. There is great pride shared by everyone involved with the school in the progress and standards of achievement of all pupils. We provide an exceptional environment in which to promote pupils’ moral, spiritual, social and academic development. In addition, we are recognised for the breadth of our pupils’ cultural development, which is promoted through a rich variety of Welsh cultural experiences.

The school is superbly equipped with every modern facility needed for the personal development of pupils and the delivery of high quality education. As well as two comprehensive teaching units, the Foundation Phase Unit and the Junior Unit, the school also has an excellent variety of sport, recreation and outdoor learning facilities available. Our pupils also benefit from a wide range of visits and events throughout the year.

Our pupils, aged between 3–11 years old, come from a wide area including Pontarddulais, Llangyfelach, Treboeth, Craig Cefn Parc, Cwmrhydyceirw, Morriston and Gorseinon, as well as from Felindre and the local catchment area.

EXCELLENT LANGUAGE SUPPORT  Whatever the language of the family, whatever the language ability and age of the children when they join the school, each pupil develops his/her Welsh language skills easily through our stimulating and supportive approach to learning. Worldwide research shows that bilingualism helps develop children’s problem solving and creative skills, two very useful attributes in today’s world.

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SUPERB SCHOOL FACILITIES 

FOUNDATION PHASE UNIT This superbly equipped unit, provides every modern facility needed for the development of Foundation Phase (3-4 years) and Key Stage 1 (5-7 years) children. Extensive resources provided in a happy, comfortable and stimulating environment include:

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Attractive nursery and classroom

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Well-stocked library and story sharing circle

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Art and craft corner

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Role play and imagination house

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Computers and Interactive White board

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A variety of activity areas

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Bright and colourful ‘wet and dry ’ play area

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Outdoor play and activity area

This unit also includes the infant toilet.

The School Hall / Canteen has gymnastic equipment and also offers a bright open space for dance, music, singing, drama, craft demonstrations, cookery workshops and daily assembly.

You are welcome to visit this unique school to meet the staff and have a tour of our superb facilities. Just telephone for an appointment.

You will be amazed at how much we have to offer

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SUPERB SCHOOL FACILITIES  THE JUNIOR UNIT Our excellent and well–resourced junior unit offers every facility for the delivery of modern high quality education to all Key Stage 2 (7-11 years) children. Extensive facilities provided in a caring, positive and stimulating environment include:

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An attractive themed study classroom

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Art and craft activity area

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Library of reading books

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Classroom Computers and Interactive Whiteboard

RESOURCE ROOM As well as the classroom there is also an additional room which includes:• An extensive library and story reading corner • Network of Computers • Television unit with CD and video player • Music Corner • Staff Corner

OUTDOOR RESOURCES As a natural extension of the classroom, the school has many features that together serve as an outdoor classroom. We have an excellent nature reserve, a modern adventure play area, lovely lawned areas for study activities and plenty of room to play. The nearby sports pitch, tennis and basketball courts are used for sport and recreation.

The children enjoy regular trips to the local swimming pool and gymnasium and a wide range of interesting educational visits and events are organised regularly throughout the year.

Most young people care deeply about environmental issues. Our school is part of the innovative Europe-wide Eco Schools programme. This programme is designed to make environmental awareness and action an intrinsic part of the life and ethos of the school - both for pupils and staff.

We are committed to achieving the highest standards in environmental education and management.

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A SCHOOL AT THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY The school stands in the centre of the village - both physically and socially. The school is a vital part of the community and in the same way the community is a vital factor in school life. The lively links between the two offer the children a variety of beneficial experiences and the community welcomes the children and their contributions.

INCLUSIVE LANGUAGE POLICY Whatever their language ability when they join the school, all our children develop their Welsh and English language skills easily through our stimulating and accommodating approach to learning.

We offer a Welsh language pupil-mentoring scheme for all pupils and a specialist Welsh language support service is available free of charge for pupils joining the school at aged 7 years or older.

All information sent from the school to parents, including the school’s newsletter ‘Bant a’r Cart’, and all parents meetings are bilingual. For events held entirely in Welsh, such as the Eisteddfod, translation facilities are provided. This inclusive policy means that the school and our activities are fully accessible and equally welcoming to Welsh and non-Welsh speaking parents and visitors.

LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT Children in the Early Years and Key Stage 1 are taught through the medium of Welsh. The Staff's linguistic response to English speaking children and those with Welsh as a second language is especially designed to ensure that all children are completely comfortable and understood while building their linguistic skills.

English is introduced as a formal subject in Year 3 (Key Stage 2) and in preparation for this the children become used to English books at the end of Year 2. During Key Stage 2 linguistic studies are divided equally between English and Welsh. Whilst the emphasis across the curriculum continues in Welsh, we work hard to ensure that all our children develop their English language skills fully in preparation for secondary education and beyond.

CULTURAL ACTIVITIES Many of the school’s pupils travel from beyond the boundaries of our defined catchment area and benefit from participating in a collaborative rural society. There is a natural link between school and community in Felindre. One of the many notable features of the school is the very good social and cultural development of our pupils.

The school regularly puts on entertainment in the village hall and chapel and the community is extremely supportive of these occasions. There is the annual Christmas concert when the hall/chapel is always packed and the thanksgiving service at Harvest time in Nebo chapel. An evening of entertainment provided by the children is held each year to celebrate St David’s Day with the community and the school coming together in the Village Hall. The annual eisteddfod is another prime example of the co-operation between the school and the community. The afternoon is dedicated to local talent with art, prose, poetry and performing having prominence.

The school has also been successful in the art and performing competitions of the Urdd Eisteddfod.

Pupils regularly take part in the Welsh Books Quiz and have achieved a good level of success in recent competitions.

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MUSIC There is a thriving musical tradition within the school. We currently have a peripatetic music teacher who teaches music in the Junior class.Pupils are also offered instrumental lessons on either the recorder, brass instruments or the harp. The children perform and sing together at village concerts and community events, as well as competing in the Urdd Eisteddfod.

SPORT As part of the Physical Education Curriculum, the children have been fortunate to have courses held at the school for Dragon Rugby and football. We use the school yard for skills practice and the village sports field and court for various sports such as rugby, football, hockey, tennis and netball. The children take part in competitions during the year, e.g. swimming, football.

During the Winter and Spring terms, the children receive swimming lessons at a nearby swimming pool. In the Summer term, they also visit the fully equipped gymnasium at Fforestfach for extra gymnastic lessons.

EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES The school has an active Urdd Adran that meets on Tuesday after school from 3.30pm – 4.30pm.

Children must be members of the Urdd and Year 2 upwards. The club is co-ordinated by members of staff and the children pay £1.00 a week to attend. The children participate in numerous events and activities throughout the year including: Sports, Games and Competitions, Art and Craft and Preparation for events HOME SCHOOL LINKS Open and effective communication between the school and the home is essential for the development and welfare of every pupil. Parents can contact the school at any time to discuss anxieties or to make an appointment to see the class teacher or Headteacher. A copy of our Home School Agreement is distributed to each family. We consider the educational development of the child to be a process shared between the family and the school.

PARENT TEACHER ASSOCIATION The Parent Teacher Association (Cymdeithas Rhieni/Athrawon) at Ysgol Gynradd Gymraeg Felindre (known as CRA) is extremely active and supportive. It works to its utmost to respond constructively to the teachers’ requests and to support them fully in their work. Its purpose is twofold: to organise social events, which nurture a good relationship between parents, children, teachers and the local community, and to raise money.

A number of enjoyable events are organised such as Twmpath Dawns (folk dancing), Christmas Fairs, quiz nights and BBQs etc. CRA also support and give practical help in preparing for the annual village Eisteddfod, Welsh Books Quiz and the Urdd Eisteddfod. Refreshments are provided at the school sports day and at the Christmas Concert.

CRA buys and sells goods and distributes the school uniform CRA is proud of the relationship between the school and the business sector. Local businessmen, Welsh Water, Laings, Shimano and HSBC Bank have provided substantial sponsorship and support for our activities. This sponsorship and the money raised from the ball races have allowed the school to build and finance a multi-purpose infants play room, and a school nature reserve. All parents and friends of the school, old and new, are welcome to take part in CRA activities.

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SCHOOL UNIFORM The school colour is purple. The uniform is ordered through the PTA and includes a choice of: Purple sweat shirt/Fleece with logo Purple T-shirt or white polo shirt Black trousers Purple Gingham dress (summer) Grey skirts or trousers also acceptable Shoes should be sensible. Jewellery can cause safety problems and earrings must be removed before PE. THE SCHOOL AIMS We enable every child to demonstrate success at his/her own level.

We provide a varied and meaningful range of experiences for all pupils within different situations, in order that each child can reach his/her potential.

The child’s needs are met as he/she progresses through the education system and prepares for life in the 21st Century.

We work to nurture self confidence and lively minds in all pupils We develop children’s talents and develop their interests and inquisitiveness.

As a whole school policy: Every child is guided by self–respect and respect towards his/her peers, teachers and other adults within and outside school.

Children are expected to do their best at all times. Effort is rewarded as well as success.

Children are encouraged to think for themselves and to take a more responsible role in their own education.

We strive to make school work interesting for all pupils, as we recognise that enjoyment stimulates effort.

We ensure all children are totally bilingual. The Infants are taught through the medium of Welsh, and English is introduced formally at Key Stage 2.

We encourage pupils to know what it is to be Welsh with a love for the Welsh language, culture and Country.

Whatever the circumstances, we offer each individual an equal opportunity to take part in all activities.

Children should be clear and competent in their oral and written communication.

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We ensure that pupils work is proudly displayed.

We endeavour to make the transition from one class to another, or from Junior to Secondary school, as smooth as possible.

We encourage pupils to respect their environment and stress that all individuals have a role to play in their community.

We encourage children to be tolerant and open-minded and to respect other people’s beliefs and ideals, whether moral, religious or otherwise.

We ensure children learn to co-operate and to help each other.

We acknowledge that every child is an individual and therefore unique and that we must respect their ideas, opinions and feelings.

We as teachers must learn to listen children and they must learn to listen to each other.

We aim to create a atmosphere where equal opportunity exists for each pupil, without discriminating on the basis of sex, race or religion.

ADMISSIONS Children may start school full-time at the beginning of the school year in which they become five years old.

Children are accepted into Meithrin (Nursery) the day after their third birthday. Parents and children are welcome to visit the Foundation Phase Unit together before joining the Meithrin in order that both can become familiar with the new environment. The Meithrin attend school every morning from 8.50am to 11.20am. During this time the children have fruit/toast and milk so that they last through the busy morning.

TEACHING HOURS AND TIMES School times are 8.50am to 3.15pm (infants) or 3.20pm (juniors). Break times are: 10.30-10.45am and 2.00-2.10pm. Lunch is 11.50am - 12.50pm The children should arrive promptly and be collected promptly.

TERM/HOLIDAY DATES AND INSET DAYS For details of school terms/holiday dates please refer to Appendix 1. Six In-Service Training (INSET) days are earmarked each year, when the school is closed for the children. We will inform you of the dates by letter.

CLASS SIZES AND YEAR GROUPS Because Felindre is a small village school, the number of classes and year groups vary. The small class sizes enable us to give optimum attention to each child’s individual learning.

TEACHING IN THE SCHOOL Every teacher within the school uses a range of teaching methods according to the individual child and the class as a whole unit. The methods include a range of individual and pair work, group and whole class lessons. In the same mould, some activities will be practical, whilst others will require concentration and silence. In the Foundation Phase, the balance of free play and of structural play is the basis of the teaching.

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All teaching staff plan their work so as to ensure a balance in the curriculum and the correct emphasis in the different subjects. There is an emphasis on progression in the school so as to ensure a smooth bridging process is developed from class to class and school to school.

The progression of every subject is planned carefully to ensure that there is progression when presenting a new idea. Here are the arrangements:

Nursery / Reception Years 1 and 2 Years 3, 4, 5 and 6

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Foundation Phase Key Stage 1 Key Stage 2

Every day children will have the opportunity to do individual, group and whole class work. During the week there will be a focus on Key Skills e.g. numeracy, literacy, handwriting etc. There will be opportunities within their studies to do cross-curricular and themed work. By using a balance of methods, we try to ensure that every programme of study within the National Curriculum is achieved.

THEMES Themes are an effective method of teaching every aspect of the curriculum in a meaningful and relevant way. For example, the theme "Ourselves" can introduce history, geography, language, science, mathematics, religious education etc.

We have a programme of six themes, one per term for two years.

Although we use a thematic approach for a lot of the teaching time, a certain amount of time is spent introducing and practising key skills i.e. numeracy, literacy and ICT. The thematic approach gives the children the opportunity to:

take an active part in their work enjoy a broad range of experiences develop study skills take pride in how they display their work

HOMEWORK POLICY The homework policy is decided upon by the staff as a whole. By doing this everyone knows the point and purpose of giving homework , who is to do the homework, who is giving the homework and when to give it. • •

Infants Year 3 -6

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once a week twice a week

Homework will be an extension of work done in class. It can be investigative or to do with any aspect of the curriculum. The homework given should not take more than a quarter of an hour to finish in the infants and half an hour in the Juniors.

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THE CURRICULUM The aims of the curriculum are developed by the Head Teacher and the staff as a whole and discussed with the Governors. The curriculum and the programmes of study are based on the National Curriculum.

There are four core subjects: • Welsh • English • Maths • Science and nine foundation subjects:o o o o o o o o o

Design and Technology Information Technology History Geography Art Music Physical Education Religious Education Personal & Social Education

PRESENTING THE CURRICULUM Through the Head Teacher and teaching staff, the school Governors develop and revise policy documents for every area of the curriculum, by considering the National Curriculum. The curriculum is presented through a number of teaching methods e.g. whole class teaching, group, pair and individual work. The school’s curriculum document may be viewed by asking the Headteacher.

PROMOTING SKILLS ACROSS THE NATIONAL CURRICULUM At all key stages, pupils learn, practise, combine, develop and refine a wide range of skills in their work across the National Curriculum.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS Seven areas are described as general requirements because they help learners improve their learning and performance in education, work and life. These general skills are embedded in the National Curriculum and are outlined below:Communication This includes skills in speaking, listening, reading and writing. Skills in speaking and listening include the ability to speak effectively for different audiences; to listen, understand and respond appropriately to others; and to participate effectively in group discussion. Skills in reading and writing include the ability to read fluently a range of literary and non-fiction texts and to reflect critically on what is read; and the ability to write fluently for a range of purposes and audiences, including critical analysis of their own and others’ writing.

Application of number The key skill of application of number includes developing a range of mental calculation skills and the ability to apply them within a variety of contexts. Skills include developing the 12

understanding and use of mathematical language related to numbers and calculations in order to process data, solve problems and explain the reasoning used.

Information technology Developing and applying the ability to use a range of information sources and ICT (Information, Communication, Technology) tools to find, analyse, interpret, evaluate and present information for a range of purposes.

Personal and Social This key skill includes the ability to develop socially, spiritually and morally, acquiring an understanding of the difference between right and wrong.

Y Cwricwlwm Cymreig Here we aim to promote pupils’ cultural development which involves pupils acquiring an understanding and respect for the Welsh cultural traditions and an ability to appreciate and respond to a variety of aesthetic experiences.

Problem solving This involves developing and applying questioning, predicting, and decision making skills.

Creative skills To develop the ability to express their ideas and imagination creatively.

FORMAL ASSESSMENT Children at the end of Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 are teacher–assessed. The children are assessed in core subjects - Maths, Welsh and Science at Key Stage 1; Maths, Welsh, English and Science at Key Stage 2. The parents are informed of the results. In addition, the progress of the children is monitored and assessed throughout the year following the schools assessment policy.

REPORTS AND PARENTS EVENING At the end of the academic year, each pupil will receive a full written report. Parents Evenings are held twice a year in the Autumn and Spring Terms. Arrangements can also be made to discuss the written report at the end of the Summer Term SECONDARY EDUCATION The majority of children from Ysgol Felindre go on to Ysgol Gyfun Bryntawe. We recognise the importance of preparing our children fully for secondary education and as part of this process we have developed strong links with the school. In addition, during their last term at Ysgol Felindre, our pupils attend a residential preparatory course ‘Cwrs Pontio’ at Llangrannog with other children who will also be making their transition to the Ysgol Gyfun Bryntawe. They also benefit from introductory visits, ‘lesson taster’ days and open evenings (the latter with their parents) through out their last year.

We urge parents to visit Ysgol Gyfun Bryntawe and to attend open evenings when their child is in year 6 at Ysgol Felindre, in accordance with Education Authority policy.

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RELIGIOUS EDUCATION Religious Education is a statutory provision within the framework of the curriculum and is taught according to Local Authority Provision. Morning worship is an important part of the school's activities and children of all ages are encouraged to take part. Parents have a right to ask to absent their child from this provision.

HEALTH AND SEX EDUCATION Health Education is taught as part of other curriculum areas, for example, the theme "Ourselves". It is also an important part of school life e.g. washing hands before dinner or before cooking, after being to the toilet etc. The Governing body has decided to adopt County policy as well as National Assembly Guidelines regarding sex education. Parents have the right to withdraw their children from sex education if they wish.

PASTORAL CARE The pastoral care of the children is the responsibility of all staff with the Head Teacher taking overall responsibility. When a pupil is involved in a minor accident, basic first aid is administered by the class teacher or whoever is on duty. The school aims to provide a warm, homely atmosphere that will cater for all the children's needs. It is important that we provide a safe, happy environment.

If a child is taken ill or has an accident, the school will contact the parents or guardians to make the necessary arrangements. If a more serious situation arises the school will contact the emergency services and the parents or guardians will be contacted.

All 5 year olds are given a hearing test and 8 year olds are given a vision test. Children with sight, speech or hearing problems are seen regularly. The Education Welfare Service and the Education Psychology Service are contacted whenever it is necessary.

Proper supervision is provided from 08.40 a.m. and during morning and afternoon playtime. During the dinner hour, children are supervised by Supervisory Assistants. The Physical Education equipment is checked on a regular basis and physical education lessons are properly supervised.

There are two locks on all the outer doors, and nobody can gain admission without permission.

Fire drill is practised at regular intervals.

PUNCTUALITY AND ABSENCES It is important that children are punctual at all times. Class teachers should be informed of any medical or dental appointments, which mean that children will be absent from school. If a child is absent from school due to illness, a note or a telephone call explaining the reason for absence is essential. Parents should seek the permission of the Governors for family holidays which extend for more than 10 school days within the school year.

BEHAVIOUR POLICY Behaviour is the responsibility of all at Ysgol Felindre. Everyone is expected to behave in a reasonable manner in the caring and secure environment provided at the school. Children are positively encouraged to think for themselves about what they are doing and to develop selfdiscipline. The class teacher or playground duty teacher will normally deal with any misbehaviour.

Sanctions, where necessary, may consist of loss of privileges. If there is a case of regular or continued misbehaviour, the Head Teacher will contact the parent/guardian. Our aim is always to be fair when handling behavioural matters, knowing that children respect and understand fairness.

A copy of our behaviour policy is available from the school.

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SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS The Special Educational Needs Code of Practice was published in 1994 and provides Guidelines for schools. Our Special Education provision is based on this document.

A number of children will need some special educational provision at some time during their school career. Usually, the provision to meet these specific needs are available in school, without the help from outside agencies. When the need does arise for advice and help from outside school we turn to the Special Education Needs Department from the Local Education Authority.

The Code of Practice Wales 2002 suggests a graduated response to help pupils with special needs.

When a child is identified as having special educational needs the steps School Action and School Action Plus are followed. These will not usually be steps on the way to statutory assessment but rather a means of matching special educational provision to the child’s needs. These steps a part of the school’s continuous planning, action and review procedure, which enables each pupil to learn and progress.

If the co-ordinator, after discussion with parents, feels the need for a formal assessment on a child, then the school will refer the child to the Local Educational Authority. After a formal assessment with a specialist child psychologist, the Local Education Authority will then decide whether or not to issue a statement of special educational needs.

PUPILS WITH DISABILITIES Parts of the school are suitable for pupils with disabilities.

PAYMENT FOR SCHOOL VISITS The school does its utmost to provide the best possible educational opportunities for every child within its budget, which is provided by the local Education Authority. The law dictates that a child's education within school hours must be free and we at Felindre do our best in this respect.

Yet, it is recognised that many valuable educational activities are dependent on additional financial support or help. Without this it would be difficult to maintain the quality and breadth of education that is offered to children at any school. As a school, we endeavour to keep parental costs to the minimum and ensure that every child can participate in any activity, whatever their circumstances.

The law recognises the fact that under certain circumstances schools must ask for a contribution from parents as long as the school clearly declares its Guidelines when asking for this contribution.

Our policy is: One day visits during school hours The school makes a request for a voluntary contribution towards the cost of the educational visit.

For visits outside school hours a request is made for allowable costs. Exceptions or changes can be made to contributions after discussion with the Head Teacher.

Residential visits during school hours A voluntary contribution is asked of parents to meet any costs apart from the cost of board and lodgings. Parents pay all the board and lodging costs for their children.

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COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE If you have a complaint it is important that you first try and resolve the problem by making an appointment with either the class teacher or the Head Teacher to discuss the matter. If you have a complaint to make under section 23 of the Education Reform Act (concerning the curriculum, religious education and worship) the Local Education Authority has a formal prepared procedure of complaint and you can obtain a copy of this from the school, education authority or Public library.

Further information is available from 'The Pupil and Parent Support Unit' at County Hall, Swansea – (01792) 636000.

DOCUMENTATION Those documents open for inspection according to Regulation may be inspected and copied, at school during school hours, after prior arrangement with the Head Teacher.

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