Headteacher: Mrs Ceren Lloyd - Ysgol Abercasegysgolabercaseg.org/downloads/060716-llawlyfr-ysgol... · Headteacher: Mrs Ceren Lloyd ... which will provide you with guidance and ideas

Headteacher:

Mrs Ceren Lloyd

“Happy and secure as we learn together”

An electronic version of this document is available on the school

website www.ysgolabercaseg.org

PART 1

THE HOME

AND THE

SCHOOL

PART 1

THE HOME AND THE SCHOOL

Whom to speak to and when

What you have the right to see

How to register

Keeping in touch with you

The staff of the school

The School Governing Body

School philosophy

School Uniform

Snacks

School Dinners

Breakfast Club

Lunch/Afternoon and After School Clubs

School holidays

WHOM TO SPEAK TO AND WHEN

VISITING TIME You are welcome to call at any time, after arranging an appointment with the headteacher. We all work together for the benefit of each child at the school. PARKING Parents are kindly requested, for safety reasons, not to use the school car park and to always use the public footpath when entering and leaving the school. SCHOOL TIME School hours are: 9.00am -11.00am Nursery 9.00am - 3.00pm Infants Children are expected to arrive at school between 8.50 and 8.55 am. If parents expect to be late collecting their children from school, they need to forewarn the school of this possibility. PERSONS TO CONTACT Telephone No: 01248 600194 E-Mail: [email protected] Chairman of Governors: Mr Rheinallt Puw Headteacher: Mrs Ceren Llloyd Deputy Headteacher: Mrs Yvonne Griffiths Cleaner in charge: Mrs Sian Hughes Cook: Mrs Marian Davies Administrative and School Meals Clerk: Ms Edwina Griffith GWYNEDD EDUCATION AUTHORITY Head of Schools Department of Education Council Offices Caernarfon Gwynedd LL55 1SH Phone-01286 672255

WHAT YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO SEE / DOCUMENTS AVAILABLE

You have a right to see a number of documents such as Welsh Office Circulars, Local Education Authority Policies, the policies and curricular aims of the Governors, HMI reports on the school, schemes of work and subject syllabuses, and the annual report to parents. You may contact the Headteacher during school hours to arrange a convenient time to see these documents. Although the particulars in this handbook are correct at the time of publication, it should not be assumed that there will be no changes before the start of, or during, the School Year. If any changes do occur, information will be provided at the annual meeting of Parents and Governors and by circulars. Pupil Records The school keeps a record of curricular information about each pupil. Parents have the right to see this information about their child.

HOW TO REGISTER AT THE SCHOOL

THE SCHOOL'S ADMISSION POLICY:- Full time in the September following their 4th birthday. Part time in the September following their 3rd birthday. All admission applications have to be made through the LEA. Parents are encouraged to take part in their children's education and to promote a healthy attitude between the school and the home. The school hopes to ensure co-operation and support from parents regarding all the school’s activities. Usually, children from Ysgol Abercaseg transfer to Ysgol Pen y bryn in the September following their seventh birthday. Both schools co-operate closely so as to ensure that there is natural learning progression when the children transfer from the infants to the junior school. The children spend a day at Ysgol Pen y bryn before the end of the summer term. The Ysgol Pen y bryn handbook is available at Ysgol Abercaseg if you wish to see a copy or go on their website.

KEEPING IN TOUCH WITH YOU THE SCHOOL AND THE HOME Each term an events bulletin will be sent to you noting the important dates, events and school holidays. School bulletins are also sent out drawing attention to certain activities and school news.

Circulars are often given to pupils to take home e.g. permission to go on a school trip, queries about absence, invitations to school activities and news about the Friends of the School. Please inspect your child’s bag and pockets daily. Copies of letters and newsletters can also found on the school website www.ysgolabercaseg.org or on the outside notice board. A written report is presented annually regarding your child's work. You will be invited to come to school to discuss your child's progress three times during the year. We will contact you if we wish to discuss any further matters with you regarding your child.

It is extremely important for parents to take a keen interest in their children's work so that a good relationship is developed between the school and the home. During the school year you will be invited to a number of curricular evenings and training programmes for parents, which will provide you with guidance and ideas on how to help your child at home.

There are also social events we would like you to enjoy in order to understand the school and to get to know the teachers and other parents. The work of the Friends of the School is very important - why not come and join in some of the activities or be a member of the committee?

Any parent is welcome to inspect the School Fund Book as long as prior arrangements have been made with the Headteacher.

THE SCHOOL STAFF

Headteacher Mrs Ceren Lloyd

Deputy Mrs Yvonne Griffiths

Teaching Staff Mrs Elliw Williams Mrs Gwenda Roberts Miss Angharad Mair Thomas Mrs Mai Williams Classroom Assistants Mrs Karen Briggs Mrs Sheryl Hughes

Miss Siân Griffith Mrs Karen Doyle Ms Nickola Marzelos Ms Kelly Humphreys Mrs Melissa Heaton ANCILLARY STAFF

Mrs Sian Hughes Caretaker Mrs Lisa Casey Cleaner Mrs Susan Edwards Cleaner Mrs Marian Davies Cook Mrs Eleri Williams Deputy cook Ms Edwina Griffith Dinner Clerk School Secretary Lunch Time Supervisor

Mrs Karen Doyle Lunch Time Supervisor

GOVERNORS OF THE SCHOOL

Chairman Rheinallt Puw Education Authority Deputy chairman Orina Pritchard Community Members of the Committee Linda Brown Education Authority Ann Williams Education Authority Paul Painter Parents Gwilym Owen Community Brian Griffiths Community Emyr Roberts Community Emma Pritchard Parents Sioned Ryder Parents Hedd Rhys Parents Ceren Lloyd Head teacher Yvonne Griffiths Teachers Edwina Griffith Ancillary Clerk Eirian Wynne The Chairman or Clerk can be contacted through the Headteacher.

SCHOOL PHILOSOPHY

The school exists to celebrate the children's achievements because education is a process in which we participate with the children. Education does not exist to prepare children for anything else, but deals with them where they are now and develops them as individuals who appreciate their environment in its entirety. It must be remembered that the school has responsibility for more than just teaching children, which means that the children must be considered in their entirety, as unique beings with their own individual needs. It is therefore also necessary to develop an appreciation of the moral, the mannerly, the physical understanding of the culture, inheritance, traditions and language of the Welsh nation, and its place in, and in relationship to the rest of the world. In order to achieve this it is necessary to ensure that each child has equal opportunities across the curriculum, with real experiences of the highest possible quality, within an open, welcoming, tasteful, happy, family and homely environment and atmosphere. This means that the children are inspired and educated to take an active part in their own and other children's education in order to achieve their full potential. It is necessary to emphasise the importance of listening to what children have to say and giving each child his/her deserved attention, whilst providing each pupil with the opportunity to react sensibly, sensitively and with personal reasoning to varying audiences. It is essential that each child’s ideas and work are respected by sharing their successes with others, by developing self-respect and confidence and by setting an example of the highest possible quality. More often than not what other children, adults or teachers say and do, influence children far more than the Foundation Stage Curriculum. If a child leaves the school with manners and respect towards him/herself, towards others and their property and towards his/her environment in its entirety, than the ability to read, write and count is a bonus. The measure of a school's success is the size of the bonus. In order to achieve all this, it is necessary to prepare thoroughly, policies, whole school and class schemes and teaching techniques, after consultation within and between the staff, governors and LEA.

SCHOOL UNIFORM

A school uniform has been adopted. The uniform includes a red sweatshirt and white polo shirt, with a grey skirt for the girls and grey trousers for the boys. In the summer the girls can wear a red and white gingham dress and the boys can wear shorts. The children are expected to be neatly presented and dressed in a manner which conforms to the school uniform. We request your co-operation with the school uniform. We believe that a school uniform promotes pride in the school as well as a sense of belonging. The school uniform can be bought at many clothes shops in Bangor Please ensure that your child's name is written or sewn on all clothing.

SNACKS Fruit/vegetables The children are welcome to bring fruit or vegetables to eat during milk/water time, or they can buy fruit from the school at the cost of £1.25 per week. Eating sweets is not permitted in school. Milk The Welsh Assembly supplies milk for the children free of charge (daily). If your child does not drink milk then he/she can have water instead (no other drink is allowed).

Water bottles As we are involved in the Gwynedd Healthy Schools’ initiative we encourage the children to bring a bottle of water to school so that they may have water to drink during the day. In accordance with the ‘Infection Control Guidance for Primary and Secondary Schools’ we advise parents to clean water bottles regularly to reduce the risk of contamination.

BREAKFAST CLUB A breakfast club is held at the school every morning with the children having a healthy breakfast and good supervision during the session. The club is open to all the children at Ysgol Abercaseg and is free of charge. The session starts at 8.00 a.m. Children arriving after 8.30 a.m. will not be permitted entry.

SCHOOL DINNERS

School Dinners currently cost £11 a week, £2.20 a day. This can change before September and you will be notified as soon as possible. The money should be paid beforehand on Monday in an envelope on which the child's name and class is clearly marked. If you receive Income Support, your child is entitled to dinner free of charge. You must contact the benefits office yourself to make an application and they will inform us. Children attending the ‘Lunch Club’ at school are welcome to have school dinners. Your child may bring his/her own lunch if you so wish, but please do not send glass bottles or drink cans. As a school, we encourage ‘Healthy Lunch Boxes’ so please consider providing sugary foods once in a while-definitely not three a day! We educate the children in school to make the right choices. LUNCH BOX HYGIENE Packed lunch boxes can provide food poisoning germs with an ideal environment in which to grow. It is therefore important that parents/carers who provide packed lunches are aware of the importance of good food hygiene, and prepare and store their children’s food safely.

In accordance with the ‘Infection Control Guidance for Primary and Secondary Schools’ we encourage parents/carers to:

wash your hands and clean and disinfect food preparation surfaces before you handle food and after contact with raw food

avoid cross contamination between raw and ready-to-eat foods

use an airtight rigid lunch box that you wash and dry thoroughly before use

check food is fresh and within its use-by or best-before date

freshly prepare food each day (less storage time gives less opportunity for germs to grow)

check food labels to make sure food is stored at the right temperature

consider using a freezer pack or cool bag to help keep your child’s lunch chilled

remind your child to wash their hands before opening their lunch box Changing from school dinners to sandwiches (or vice versa) in mid-week is not permitted.

LUNCH/AFTERNOON/AFTER SCHOOL CLUBS

We have a Lunch club(11am-1pm) Afternoon club (1pm-3pm) for pupils of the nursery class and an After School club (3pm-6pm) for pupils of Abercaseg and Pen y bryn schools, situated at Abercaseg School. The clubs have been registered through CSSIW, allowing parents to use childcare vouchers to pay for the service. Club phone no:07818000415

School term times and holidays.

Autumn Term 2016

Starts:for staff- Thursday, 1 September

for the children: Friday September 2nd ( awaiting confirmation)

Half Term: Monday, 24 October - Friday, 28 October

Ends: Friday, 16 December

Spring Term 2017

Start: Tuesday, 3 January

Half term: Monday, 20 February - Friday, 24 February

Ends: Friday, 7 April

Summer Term 2017

Starts: Monday, 24 April

May Day: Monday 1st May

Half Term: Monday, 29 May - Friday, 2 June

Ends: Friday, 21 July

Schools will re-open for teachers on Friday, 1 September, 2017 and for pupils on

Monday, 4 September (awaiting confirmation).

Going on holiday during school term

Taking children on holiday during term time can lead to a series of problems such

as:

your child's education suffering

missing lessons and extra curricular activities

continuity of work being lost

As a result we ask you to avoid going on holiday during term time if possible.

If you have to take your child out of school during term time, you will have to discuss

and agree with the school.

PART 2

CURRICULUM

ORGANISATION

ASSESSMENT

PART 2

CURRICULUM ARRANGEMENTS

ASSESSMENT

The Curriculum

Curricular Aims

Special Educational Needs

Equality

Pupils with disabilities/Accessibility Plan

Foundation Stage

ITC

Religious Education

Sex Education and Relationship Policy

Language Policy

Gwynedd Primary Schools’ Welsh Language Charter

Assessment and Recording

Physical Education

Complaints Procedure

Charging for Educational Activities

Assessment Results

THE CURRICULUM

In accordance with the requirements of the Education Act 1986, the Education Authority has formed, and intends to review regularly, a written statement of policy regarding the secular curriculum. The requirements of the Foundation Stage will be interpreted in the light of the Authority's present policies and philosophy.

The aim of an education system is to create situations and provide resources that will enable each child to develop a full personality, to develop and exercise all his or her abilities, to provide for the pupil in accordance with his/her age, ability and aptitude, so that he/she is able to become a responsible member of a bilingual society, able to contribute to that society and benefit from it, and to live in peace and fraternity with fellow men.

There are three inter-related aspects to the general statements:

a) To enable each child to develop his/her full potential.

b) To ensure that each child is introduced to the Welsh heritage.

c) To give an opportunity for each child to develop as a full member of a rapidly changing Society. GENERAL OBJECTIVES 1. To develop lively, inquisitive minds, so as to enable the children to be motivated to promote their

own abilities. To be confident regarding the things they can accomplish, and to be willing to undertake new challenges, and at the same time to develop the ability to question and argue with reason, and respond to tasks.

2. To extend their social awareness and responsibility towards the society to which they belong, in order to strengthen their understanding of the requirement to respect the needs, abilities and perspectives of other people.

3. To develop a sense of wonder, and nurture their curiosity and pleasure in discovering new things.

4. To nurture personal values, respect for religious ideals, and understanding of other religious and racial ways of life.

5. To develop their understanding, knowledge and appreciation of their surroundings, to understand the world in which they are living, and to accept the interdependency of individuals, groups, and nations.

6. To develop their understanding and knowledge of the modern world, it’s technology and its values.

7. To use language and number effectively.

8. To develop the child's ability to interpret evidence and to consider what may be the results of actions.

9. To develop their ability to ask questions about new phenomena, to discuss problems, and to reach answers which are thorough and acceptable.

10. To appreciate human achievements and desires.

11. To provide particular attention for each child with special needs, e.g. for the exceptionally able, and for those with various disadvantages.

12. To develop sensitivity, aesthetic appreciation and leisure skills in the child.

13. To assist the child to live and work with others and to develop attitudes which enable him/her to become a responsible member of the community.

It is necessary for every school to prepare and develop a comprehensive plan based on the Education Authority's document. This plan will include details of the education course and the way it is operated in order to ensure that the education given to the pupil meets fully with the aims of the document.

THE CURRICULAR AIMS OF THE SCHOOL

1. To develop their reading skills, their understanding and critical appreciation of all sorts of books, and to strive

to make reading a pleasurable activity that will stay with them throughout their lives. Emphasis is given to fluency and feeling towards the text. To extend the range, depth and standard of their creative writing. To enable children to communicate clearly, to discuss ideas and feelings, using this potential as an effective means to develop feelings, understanding and ideas.

2. To develop legible handwriting, and the highest standard in spelling, lettering, sentence structure, punctuation and the use of words

3. To communicate orally in a clear and confident manner, in a way that is relevant to a variety of purposes and occasions.

4. To expand and consolidate their ability and willingness to listen and respond to words and inferences with understanding.

5. To learn how to find information from different sources, and to record information and discoveries in different ways.

6. To implement computation skills quickly and correctly.

7. To develop mathematical concepts and skills according to each child's potential, and to enable them to understand the relevance of mathematics in the world around them.

8. To study living things in the world around them and to recognise properties such as pattern and order/sequence.

9. To master basic scientific ideas.

10. To investigate solutions, interpret evidence, and analyse and solve problems.

11. To learn self-respect and be sensitive to others, to develop a set moral values, and have the confidence to voice moral issues, and to foster the habits of self-discipline and approved behaviour.

12. To develop their awareness, knowledge and appreciation of their environment. To be aware of the geographical, historical and social aspects that exists in the local environment. Children should also be made aware of their national heritage.

13. To develop their ability to create things with their hands, promoting sensitivity in the use of equipment and materials and self-discipline in the use of craft tools, to enable them to express themselves through the creative and expressive arts.

14. To develop their physical skills - to assist suppleness and physical co-ordination, and also confidence in physical activities, thereby their ability to express feelings through movement and work as a member of a team.

15.To ensure, through sensitively structured provision and organisation, that each child receives a firm foundation in Welsh in order to enable him/her in due course to attain the aim of full bilingualism. Junior School – when the children transfer to Ysgol Pen y bryn

To consolidate and develop each child’s Welsh and English capabilities in all aspects, both active and receptive, so as to ensure that he/she can speak, read and write fluently and confidently in both languages on transferring to the secondary school. (Special provision will be made for junior newcomers)

REPORT ON SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS POLICY

The following was achieved during 2015-16 1.The SEN policy was reviewed at the end of the school year. Those pupils requiring additional attention received special education, following the pattern of the LEA’s code of practice list. 2.The school’s special education register was arranged, forms and screening procedure system and assessment of pupils’ requirements established, individualised and appropriate educational schemes (IEP) were prepared and progress was monitored and reviewed in accordance with the code of practice. The LEA gave its seal of approval to the register and the forms. 3.Necessary resources were purchased. The most able children were regularly monitored. 4.SEN designated Governors were appointed to monitor special needs at the school. Regular meetings were held to discuss developments. 5.The school has facilities for disabled children and people. 6.SEN Classroom Assistants and an SEN teacher worked with individual children and small groups. 7.Several visits from External Agencies.

SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS - HELPING THE CHILD

During their time at school some children will face difficulties with their work e.g. learning to read or spell and some children will be very able. The school has a plan to help such children. The plan is based on the 1993 and 2002 Education Acts and consists of the following steps. 1. If the teacher thinks a child has problems or is very able then the teacher will think of ways of helping

the child. The teacher will also talk to the parents.

2. If the teacher thinks that the child is not making progress then the teacher will discuss the problems with the Special Needs Co-ordinator – the person who makes sure that the plan works smoothly in the school. In this school the co-ordinators are the Head teacher and Deputy Head teacher. After discussions with the parents the child may be placed on a special list (called the register of Special Educational Needs), which is known as the School Action stage. The school and parents write out a special individual plan of work for the child, called an IEP (Individual Education Plan). This could involve extra attention for the child. This is a positive step in that the school and parents can work together to help the child. After a period of time progress is assessed. If the problems improve then the child will be removed from the list.

3. If the problems continue then the parents and school could decide to place the child on to the next stage; School Action and More. This is noted on the list. This involves t the school writing to the Education Authority asking for advice on how to help the child. Usually a special needs advisory teacher or an educational psychologist sees the child. This could involve extra attention for the child. At the School Action and More stage the school and parents again write out a special individual plan of work for the child. After a period of time progress is assessed. If the child is overcoming the problems then the child could be put back to School Action stage or even taken off the list.

4. The Education Authority may decide to provide extra help for the child whilst on the School Action and More stage. This Stage is then called Stage 3* (3 star).The provision is regularly reviewed.

5. If all concerned feel that a very detailed assessment of the child’s difficulties is needed then it could be decided to move to Statutory Assessment. At this stage the Education Authority has a very detailed method of gathering information about the child. Once the parents have agreed to this stage the gathering of information begins and the Education Authority has 6 months in which to obtain the necessary information and to draw up a plan of action regarding ways of helping the child (this is called a Statement of Special Educational Needs).

6. If the parents agree to the Authority’s plan then the child is Statemented (this is the highest stage). If the parents disagree with the plan then there are ways of discussing this with the Authority. It may even be decided to put the child back on to the School Action and More stage.

All through this process parents are invited to discuss matters with the school and are provided with copies of individual education plans. The aim is always for the school and parents to work together to help the child. The school will also have termly special needs open evenings where such matters can be discussed. The school’s special needs policy can be seen at the school on request to the Head teacher. If you have any questions please ask the Head teacher.

EQUALITY The school’s main philosophy and aims are that the honesty, dignity and integrity of every individual is of the utmost importance. We strive to promote the equality of every pupil and member of staff at all times without discrimination according to the Equality Act 2010.

PUPILS WITH DISABILITIES/ACCESSIBILITY PLAN

The school’s layout ensures easy access to pupils and parents with disabilities. Special arrangements are made between school and home when a pupil with disabilities or Additional Learning Needs starts at the school. Please contact the Head Teacher for more information. The school is sensitive towards the needs of pupils with disabilities and makes every effort to ensure that they are included in all aspects of the school’s life and work. A copy of the Accessibility Plan is on the school website www.ysgolabercaseg.org or you can obtain a copy from the school.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AND COMMUNICATION ITC skills are practically developed and contribute to cross-curricular work. We aim to raise the children’s awareness of the computer’s potential and encourage them to handle it confidently and purposefully, achieving a high level of knowledge, skill and understanding. During the last year we have made a considerable investment in ITC hardware and software.

THE FOUNDATION STAGE

The Foundation Stage introduces a way of delivering a curriculum and continuum of learning for 3 – 7 year olds and has been designed to give children the best possible start and opportunities to learn and develop. It builds on what children can do and what they bring to the learning environment. Seven Areas of Learning, which are complementary to each other, have been identified to describe an appropriate curriculum for 3 to 7 year olds, that supports the development of children. The seven Areas of Learning are: Personal and Social Development, Well-Being and Cultural Diversity Language, Literacy and Communication Skills Mathematical Development Welsh Language Development Knowledge and Understanding of the World Physical Development Creative Development

HEALTHY SCHOOLS project- We have completed Stage 4 of the project which encourages and promotes healthy eating and keeping healthy within and outside the school and are currently working towards Stage 5. GREEN SCHOOL and ECO SCHOOL projects- We are working towards being awarded the gold prize in the Green School project by promoting recycling, looking after the environment and many other green issues. A school garden has been created with many of the produce grown sold or used by the cook in the kitchen. FAIR TRADE- The school promotes ‘fair trade’ in as many practical ways as possible and is working towards becoming a ‘Fair trade School’.

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION

Religious Education is taught according to the Agreed Syllabus of the Local Education Authority. The religious instruction in the school seeks to make children aware of the religious background to the accepted codes of behaviour and morality in the country, but not to enforce a specific religious practice upon them. Indeed, the importance of understanding and accepting different faiths within the school can make a positive contribution. A daily service is held as laid down in the Education Act 1986. Assemblies normally follow a basically Christian pattern, but they are also an occasion for a class or the school as a whole to realise themselves as a community. No attempt is made to instil particular beliefs into pupils, although there are opportunities to observe the practice of Christianity and occasionally of other faiths. These occasions are important if pupils are to feel part of the school community and it is hoped that they will all be able to attend our services. However, as permitted in the Education Act, parents who object to their children participating in the services or receiving Religious Education may make arrangements with the Headteacher for them to be excused.

SEX EDUCATION AND RELATIONSHIP POLICY

In accordance with the 1986 Education Act, School Governing Bodies are expected to consider whether sex education should be included in the secular curriculum. If they are of the opinion that sex education should be included in the curriculum, they need to draw up and review a written statement of their policy from a contents and procedural standpoint. The Governing Body decided that sex education should be included as part of the curriculum when it arises as part of class work or if any questions are asked naturally by the children. The subject will be dealt with sensitively and sensibly. If in doubt, you should consult the Headteacher concerning the Governors’ statement on the matter.

LANGUAGE POLICY

GENERAL AIMS Gwynedd Education Authority operates a bilingual policy in all its schools and is also developing a bilingual policy for the Further Education establishments within the county. The aim is to develop the ability of pupils and students within the county to be confidently bilingual in order that they can be full members of the bilingual society of which they are a part. All educational establishments within the county should reflect and reinforce the language policy in their administration, their social life and pastoral arrangements as well as their academic provision. SPECIFIC AIMS To build on the Welsh language foundation laid through nursery education. To consolidate and develop the mother tongue of children who are Welsh learners and to develop the English language for children who are from Welsh speaking homes.

GWYNEDD PRIMARY SCHOOLS’ WELSH LANGUAGE CHARTER

Ysgol Abercaseg promotes the aim of the Language Charter which is to increase the children’s use of the Welsh language socially; in a word getting the children to speak Welsh. Ysgol Abercaseg’s vision is to see every child speaking Welsh fluently by the time they leave the school by using the language naturally to communicate from day to day and being proud of our Welsh traditions and heritage. Each class uses the ‘Climbing Snowdon’ chart to record progress in the pupils’ social use of the Welsh language. There are 5 steps that the children need to fulfil to reach the summit:

1. Able to ask and answer a question in Welsh 2. Speak Welsh with friends in the classroom 3. Speak Welsh with friends on the school yard 4. Speak Welsh correctly 5. Speak Welsh fluently and to a high standard

ASSESSMENT AND RECORDING

HOMEWORK

The children are given homework as and when the need arises, but children take reading books home on a weekly basis. From time to time a particular activity requires information by parents, relations and neighbours, or requires interviewing and research work by the child. When this happens, it is hoped that parents will co-operate to encourage their child in his/her work. Occasionally a particular teacher may ask a child to do additional work in order to overcome some weakness or to concentrate on a special aspect of the work. At such times it is hoped that the full co-operation of the home will be forthcoming together with encouragement for the child to do the work. The school will consider the needs of the child according to age, ability and requirements when setting homework. ASSESSMENT

The introduction of the Foundation Stage has made us look again at our method of assessment and reporting to parents. We assess the children on a continual assessment basis in all of the National curriculum subjects. The assessments will be found in each child's development profile. A detailed annual report is sent to parents at the end of the school year, covering all curricular areas. Following the national Foundation Stage programme children are assessed at the end of the Foundation Stage (year 2). A full report of attainment levels of each pupil will be prepared for the parents at the end of the school year. Early in the Autumn Term, the results of the assessment of year 2 will be available at the school by contacting the Headteacher.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

The school in partnership with the home is responsible for every child's physical development as well as his/her educational and moral development. Consequently, Physical Education lessons for the children are held in the school hall and on the school yard The venue for the lessons will depend on which unit the class will be following and upon the weather.

Our aim is to develop strength, control and an aesthetic appreciation by getting the children physically active. They will also have opportunities to work independently and with others and to form and regulate their own games.

Depending on the venue, the children are expected to wear appropriate clothing for each lesson. This means a complete set of top clothes i.e. a pair of shorts (not Bermudas) and a T-shirt or a leotard only for lessons in the school hall and a pair of pumps/trainers for lessons on the yard. The wearing of pumps/trainers will not be allowed in the school hall except when children have a foot infection.

The wearing of rings, earrings and watches will not be allowed in any Physical Education lessons.

If children are unable to participate because of illness or injury, parents are kindly requested to inform the class teacher in writing.

CHARGING FOR EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES

The governing body, in accordance with the 1998 Education Act, deem that the following activities cannot be charged for:

i) entrance into school ii) the education that is received during school hours iii) materials/equipment for lessons during school hour iv) activities that are held during school hours.

It is foreseen that some educational visits during school hours that will not be an essential part of course work, will be an enriching experience for the children. Due to the 1988 Education Act, although a school does not have the right to charge for such activities, we do

have the right to:

i) ask for a voluntary contribution towards organising such an excursion ii) ask an external agent to arrange the visit.

The Headteacher is authorised to charge the pupils for the following activities:

i) individual instrumental lessons ii) activities outside school hours iii) cases where vandalism to any part of the school building is caused by a pupil iv) when a pupil loses or vandalises books, equipment or anything belonging to the school.

The Headteacher and the Governing Body have the right to cancel an arranged activity if it is deemed that insufficient funding means a severe loss to the school.

COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE

The LEA, in compliance with Secretary of State’s requirements, under Section 23 of the 1988 Education Reform Act, has established a complaints procedure as to how school Governing Bodies and the LEA act as regards the school curriculum and other associated matters. This procedure is outlined in a document in Welsh and English that is available at the school. A free copy is provided, as and when required, to any parents wishing to lodge a complaint under the arrangements, and the LEA can provide version in a language other than in Welsh and English, if required. However, it is emphasised that many complaints can be handled rapidly and effectively through informal consideration, based on discussions with the Headteacher. This is the initial reasonable step to take, and the Governing Body will expect this step to have been taken before the complaint is formally lodged in exceptional cases. The school should be contacted to make an appointment to discuss any complaint with the Headteacher. The structure for lodging verbal complaints is as follows: Complaints related to the child’s education or the child himself/herself, should be referred to the child’s teacher. More serious cases should be referred to the headteacher and a record is kept of actions taken as a consequence of the complaint, for future reference. Complaints about the school in general or about school staff or governors should be referred to the headteacher. The above procedure should be followed as regards every complaint. If there is an unsatisfactory response, then the following channels should be followed in the following order: Chair of Governors. The Chair of Governors will decide whether the complaint should be raised at one of the governing body committees or panels. Official Complaints (written) The Headteacher –written complaints should be sent when verbal complaints have failed; they should be referred to the headteacher. These are noted in a handbook and all correspondence is kept. The Governors – unless the headteacher solves the problem, then the Governing Body or Clerk should be notified. The Director of Education - the Director of Education can be contacted if all other channels have failed. A complaint is regarded as a positive means to improve the running of the school – as long as that complaint is fair, reasonably lodged and in the best possible manner.

The above table shows Foundation Phase outcomes at the end of Year 2 , July 2015.

PART 3

PASTORAL

CARE

PART 3

PASTORAL CARE

Ethos of the School

Discipline

Presence and punctuality

Absence due to illness

Immunisation

Supervision

Animals in school

Child Protection Procedure

Safety

Medical

Home/school contact

THE ETHOS OF THE SCHOOL AIM To create a school with the best values, consistent attitudes, and the best possible practice within our ability, which will be a means to promote the spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils. To promote the health and physical, mental and emotional well being of staff. OBJECTIVES

1. To reflect the happiness and warmth that is found in the best homes is the ethos of the school, where the child is respected as a unique individual, and is at the centre of the education process.

2. To create a relationship similar to that of a good parent between the teachers and pupils.

3. We strive towards clear classroom management, the children being aware of class rules which are constantly adhered to. This leads to a strong sense of safety for the children and staff. We strive towards fairness and to be realistic at all times so that we can all live together in harmony. By creating dynamic surroundings which are also quiet and stimulating, the appropriate conditions for learning will exist.

4. The children are treated with the utmost respect in order to ensure their self-confidence. If a child is aware that he/she is respected, and that his/her contributions are respected, then one can only strive towards self-respect and in turn, learn to respect other.

5. We aim to give our children experiences that are relevant to their lives, their ideas and their level of development that will be a source to incite their curiosity.

6. We aim to give their work status by displaying it to a high standard. We strive to display their work alongside other interesting artefacts.

DISCIPLINE Pupils in this school are disciplined in accordance with the policy laid down by the Gwynedd L.E.A.

School discipline is based on the policy of every teacher being responsible for the conduct of his/her own class, but, if necessary, pupils can be referred to the Deputy Headteacher or the Headteacher.

BEHAVIOUR

Pupils are expected to contribute towards a well-ordered school community by:

i) displaying common-sense, kindness and courtesy in their dealings with other pupils, all school staff, and any visitors;

ii) refraining from wilful damage, interference with other people's property, bad language, insolence and bad manners;

iii) making every effort to keep the school buildings and surrounds neat and tidy, depositing litter in the bins provided, and not writing on the walls;

iv) not bringing personal belongings to school, e.g. toys (only when the class teacher asks for them), or jewellery;

v) trying to foster a healthy life style in school. To this effect, fruit/vegetables and milk/ water are encouraged at play time.

We have a comprehensive policy document on behaviour, discipline and punishment. When misbehaving persists, impairing the normal function of the school, we consider, and implement the ultimate punishment of exclusion, according to the guidelines laid down by the L.E.A.

ATTENDANCE AND PUNCTUALITY

i) Attending school regularly has always been an important factor. Without this the

efforts of the teachers and the school have been in vain.

ii) It is a legal duty for parents to send their children to school regularly. Parents who are unable to fulfil this duty face prosecution.

iii) The parents' responsibility extends to ensuring that their children arrive in school

on time, dressed appropriately, and ready to be educated.

iv) It is the responsibility of the parents to inform the school as soon as possible if their child is absent, and to produce any further information that they might require. The school will contact the home if no explanation has been given by 9.30 a.m. if a child is absent.

v) The school might ask for the assistance of the Education Welfare Officer and

inform the Local Education Authority if a pupil's irregular attendance becomes a cause for concern.

vi) Only the school, in a legal context, can approve absenteeism. Absenteeism is

divided into two categories - APPROVED and UNAPPROVED. Absences cannot be approved without you contacting us by letter or by telephone. The following are examples of APPROVED ABSENTEEISM - illness, medical or dental appointments, and attending a religious festival of which the parents are members. The following are examples of UNAPPROVED ABSENTEEISM - shopping during school hours, domestic responsibilities, staying home to mind others, extended holidays during school term time.

vii) Parents who arrange holidays outside the official school holidays should consult the school calendar and consider its implications to the child. You are not permitted to take more than 10 days a year holidays. A holiday permission form is available from the school.

viii) Pupils late for school must note that the register will be closed at 9.15am in the morning and at 1.15pm in the afternoon.

ix) Pupils wishing to be excused from P.E./games/swimming must provide a parent's note (for a temporary period) or a medical certificate (for an extended or permanent period).

LEAVING THE SCHOOL GROUND No pupil may leave the school premises during school hours, unless official permission has been granted. Requests for such permission must be made in writing by parents to the Headteacher. ATTENDANCE FIGURES: 2014-15 94.8% Authorised absences 5.2%

ABSENCE DUE TO ILLNESS

Guidance on Infection Control in Gwynedd Schools (February 2012)

Rashes and skin infections

Recommended period to be kept away from school, nursery or childminders

Comments

Athlete’s foot None Athletes foot is not a serious condition. Treatment is recommended

Chickenpox Five days from the onset of rash SEE: Vulnerable Children and Pregnant Staff

Cold sores, (Herpes simplex)

None Avoid kissing and contact with the sores. Cold sores are generally mild and self-limiting.

German measles (rubella)

Six days from onset of rash Preventable by immunisation (MMR x 2 doses). SEE: Pregnant Staff

Hand, foot and mouth

None Contact your local Health Protection Team if a large number of children are affected. Exclusion may be considered in some circumstances

Impetigo Until lesions are crusted and healed, or 48 hours after commencing antibiotic treatment

Antibiotic treatment speeds healing and reduces the infectious period

Measles Four days from onset of rash Preventable by vaccination (MMR x 2). SEE: Vulnerable Children and Pregnant Staff

Molluscum contagiosum

None A self-limiting condition

Ringworm Exclusion not usually required Treatment is required

Roseola (infantum) None None

Scabies Child can return after first treatment Household and close contacts require treatment

Scarlet fever Child can return 24 hours after commencing appropriate antibiotic treatment

Antibiotic treatment recommended for the affected child

Slapped cheek / fifth disease. Parvovirus B19

None SEE: Vulnerable Children Pregnant Staff

Shingles Exclude only if rash is weeping and cannot be covered

Can cause chickenpox in those who are not immune i.e. have not had chickenpox. It is spread by very close contact and touch. If further information is required, contact the Health Protection Team. SEE: Vulnerable Children and Female Staff – Pregnancy

Warts and Verrucae None Verrucae should be covered in swimming pools, gymnasiums and changing rooms

Diarrhoea and vomiting illness

Recommended period to be kept away from school, nursery or childminders

Comments

Diarrhoea and/or vomiting

48 hours from last episode of diarrhoea or vomiting

E. coli O157 VTEC Typhoid [and paratyphoid] (enteric fever) Shigella (dysentery)

Should be excluded for 48 hours from the last episode of Diarrhoea Further exclusion may be required for some children until they are no longer excreting

Further exclusion may be required for young children under five and those who have difficulty in adhering to hygiene practices This guidance may also apply to some contacts who may require microbiological clearance Please consult your local Health Protection Team for further advice

Cryptosporidiosis Exclude for 48 hours from the last episode of diarrhoea

Exclusion from swimming is advisable for two weeks after the diarrhoea has settled

Respiratory infections

Recommended period to be kept away from school, nursery or childminders

Comments

‘Flu (influenza) Until recovered SEE: Vulnerable Children

Tuberculosis Always consult the Health Protection Team

Requires prolonged close contact for spread

Whooping cough (pertussis)

Five days from commencing antibiotic treatment, or 21 days from onset of illness if no antibiotic treatment

Preventable by vaccination. After treatment, non-infectious coughing may continue for many weeks. The Health Protection Team will organise any contact tracing necessary.

Other infections Recommended period to be kept away from school, nursery or childminders

Comments

Conjunctivitis None If an outbreak/cluster occurs, consult the Health Protection Team

Diphtheria Exclusion is essential. Always consult the Health Protection Team

Family contacts must be excluded until cleared to return by the Health Protection Team. Preventable by vaccination. The Health Protection Team will organise any contact tracing necessary

Glandular fever None

Head lice None Treatment is recommended only in cases where live lice have been seen

Hepatitis A Exclude until seven days after onset of jaundice (or seven days after symptom onset if no jaundice)

In an outbreak of hepatitis A, the Health Protection Team will advise on control measures

Hepatitis B, C, HIV/AIDS

None Hepatitis B and C and HIV are blood borne viruses that are not infectious through casual contact. For cleaning of body fluid spills. SEE: Teach Germs a Lesson (Welsh Government, 2006)

Meningococcal meningitis / septicaemia

Until recovered Meningitis C is preventable by vaccination. There is no reason to exclude siblings or other close contacts of a case. The Health Protection Team will advise on any action needed

Meningitis due to other bacteria

Until recovered Hib and pneumococcal meningitis are preventable by vaccination. There is no reason to exclude siblings or other close contacts of a case. The Health Protection Team can advise on actions needed

Meningitis viral None Milder illness. There is no reason to exclude siblings and other close contacts of a case. Contact tracing is not required

MRSA None Good hygiene, in particular hand washing and environmental cleaning, are important to minimise any danger of spread. If further information is required, contact the Health Protection Team

Mumps Exclude child for five days after onset of swelling

Preventable by vaccination (MMR x 2 doses)

Threadworms None Treatment is recommended for the child and household contacts

Tonsillitis None There are many causes, but most cases are due to viruses and do not need an antibiotic

Vulnerable Children

Some medical conditions make children vulnerable to infections that would rarely be serious in most children, these include those being treated for leukaemia or other cancers, on high doses of steroids and with conditions that seriously reduce immunity. Pregnant Staff

If a pregnant woman develops a rash or is in direct contact with someone with a potentially infectious rash, this should be investigated by a doctor. The greatest risk to pregnant women from such infections comes from their own child/children, rather than the workplace.

IMMUNISATION Immunisation is the safest and most effective way to protect children from

serious disease. Parents are encouraged to have their child immunised and any immunisation missed or further catch-up doses organised through the child’s GP. For the most up-to-date immunisation advice www.immunisation.nhs.uk, or the school health service can advise on the latest national immunisation schedule.

2 months old Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio and Hib (DTaP / IPV / Hib) Pneumococcal (PCV)

One injection One injection

3 months old Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio and Hib (DTaP / IPV / Hib) Meningitis C (Men C)

One injection One injection

4 months old Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio and Hib (DTaP/IPV/Hib) Pneumococcal (PCV) Meningitis C (Men C)

One injection One injection One injection

12 – 13 months Hib / meningitis C Measles Mumps and Rubella (MMR) Pneumococcal (PCV)

One injection One injection One injection

Three years and four months or soon after

Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio (DTaP / IPV)or dTaP / IPV Measles Mumps and Rubella (MMR)

One injection One injection

13 to 18 years old Tetanus, diphtheria, and polio (Td/IPV) One injection

Girls aged 12 to 13 years

Cervical cancer caused by human papilloma virus types 6, 11, 16 & 18. HPV vaccine

Three doses over six months

SUPERVISON POLICY

AIM To assure the safety of the children, and to keep an acceptable standard of supervision, order and discipline. The school provides supervision for the children during the following periods:

1. Before school starts 10 minutes (8.50am -9.00am) 2. Morning break 15 minutes (10.30am - 10.45am) 3. Afternoon break 15 minutes (2.00pm - 2.15pm) 4. End of afternoon 10 minutes (3.00pm - 3.10pm)

The school door opens at 8.50 a.m. The teachers and classroom assistants are in the classrooms by 8.50 a.m. The school is not responsible for any occurrence before 8.50 a.m. or after 3.10 p.m. GUIDELINES: a) Arrangements for dry weather: 1. We operate a rota system during the periods of supervision. 2. The teacher on yard duty and classroom assistants supervises throughout the period. 3. Classroom assistants and a teacher are available during all school breaks to deal with minor injuries or other misfortunes. 4. The appropriate arrangements are made when a member of staff is absent. b) Arrangements for wet weather: 1. Classroom assistants, the teacher on duty and Ancillary staff supervise the children in the classrooms. c) Lunch Time: 1. Children are supervised by the Kitchen Ancillary Staff. 2. There is also a teacher and classroom assistants on duty.

ANIMALS IN SCHOOL

In accordance with the guidelines set out in ‘Teach Germs a Lesson! Infection Control Guidance for Primary and Secondary Schools’ animals are only permitted in school as part of class work if:

the animals have been declared healthy by a vet and have received all relevant vaccinations before they are brought into school

the owners and handlers of the animals have the appropriate insurance

the animals are safe to be in the vicinity of children and do not pose a threat to health

parents have given their consent for their children to be near the animals

SAFETY

1. Pupils should respect the school's simple Health and Safety rules at all times.

2. Fire Drill rules are displayed in every room, and Fire Drills are held each term.

3. All private property is the responsibility of the pupils concerned. We would appreciate if all

items (clothing, bags, purses etc.) were clearly marked for identification purposes.

4. Valuables should not be left in the cloakrooms, but handed to the class teacher immediately.

5. Any pupil found guilty of damaging school property will be expected to pay for the damage.

6. Climbing is forbidden - walls or fences.

MEDICAL

Parents are expected to inform the school of any medical or clinical condition which might affect the child's school life.

If your child needs to take any medication in school, you should seek the relevant form from the school or obtain a copy from the school’s website.

HOME AND SCHOOL CONTACT

Parents are encouraged to take an active interest in their child's education, and to develop a healthy relationship between school and home. The school hopes to ensure the co-operation and the support of parents with any additional activity arranged. There are various after school curricular clubs – Reading, Games, French, IT, Gardening, Art and Craft and ‘Little Dragons’ games and sports club. The school offers a variety of activities which are open to all Year 1 and 2 pupils, who are, in the Headteacher's opinion, ready and mature enough to take part in them. The school cannot accept responsibility for supervising children at the end of any activity, and parents/guardians are asked to ensure that adequate arrangements are made for children to be taken home. Questionnaires are sent to parents often asking for their views on the school.

CHILD PROTECTION PROCEDURE

IT IS THE SCHOOL’S STATUTORY DUTY TO PROTECT CHILDREN BY REFERRING TO

THE APPROPRIATE AGENCIES ANY SUSPICIONS OF CHILD ABUSE.