St. Luke’s & St. Matthew’s R.C. Primary School · 2012. 12. 12. · St. Luke’s & St. Matthew’s • Priority 3 – children not resident in the catchment area and having no

St. Luke’s & St. Matthew’s

R.C. Primary School

SCHOOL HANDBOOK

2012/2013

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CONTENTS

ACTIVE SCHOOLS 12 ATTENDANCE 21 CATCHMENT AREA 4 CHILD PROTECTION 19-20 CHURCH INFORMATION 12-13 CLOTHING GRANTS 20-21 COMMUNITY 25 CROSSING PATROL 7 CURRICULUM 8-14 DISCIPLINE 8 ENROLMENT 6 EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES 4 EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES 17 HEALTH CARE 19 HEALTHY TUCK SHOP 19 HOUSE SYSTEM 16 INCLEMENT WEATHER 23-24 INFANT DISMISSAL 6 INSURANCE 21 INSTRUMENTAL TUITION 11 NEWSLETTER 17 PARENT COUNCIL 22 PARENTAL PARTNERSHIP 17 PARENTS TEACHERS ASSOCIATION 23 PRIMARY/SECONDARY LIAISON 24-25 PUPIL RECORDS 17 SCHOOL AIMS 4 SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT PLAN 16 SCHOOL HOURS 6 SCHOOL MEALS 23 SCHOOL RULES 7-8 SCHOOL TERMS & HOLIDAYS 27-28 SECURITY 7 SUPPORT FOR LEARNING 13-15 STAFF LIST 5 TERM DATES/HOLIDAYS/CLOSURE DATES 27-28 TRANSFER OF PUPIL DATA 29 TRANSPORT 21 UNIFORM 18

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St. Matthew St. Matthew, the second Patron Saint of our school, is the author of St. Matthew’s Gospel which tells us about the life of our Lord and about his miracles and parables. May the apostolic zeal of St Matthew encourage the staff and pupils to spread the good news of the Gospels and to always show love and concern for others.

St. Luke St. Luke, one of the Patron Saints of our school, is the author of the Third Gospel and of the Acts of the Apostles. He is also the Patron Saint of doctors and artists. St. Paul, the Apostle, describes Luke as his “co-worker” and as the “beloved physician”. May, the kind, caring qualities of St. Luke, and the example he set of hard work to attain his many skills, inspire the lives of all who attend St. Luke’s & St. Matthew’s RC Primary School.

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St. Luke’s & St. Matthew’s R.C. Primary School Longhaugh Road Fintry Dundee DD4 9NG Telephone: 01382 438602 Fax: 01382 438602 E-mail address: [email protected] Dear Parent Thank-you for choosing St. Luke’s & St. Matthew’s R.C. Primary as a school for your son or daughter. Every pupil in this school is treated as an individual and it is expected by both myself and the Staff that he/she will work to the best of his/her ability with your support. I trust that your child will settle in well within the family of the school. However, if you feel that there is any problem, please do not hesitate to lift the phone and contact either myself or my Depute Head. It is my hope that every child in St. Luke’s & St. Matthew’s will be happy, fulfilled and successful. Yours sincerely

KM QuinnKM QuinnKM QuinnKM Quinn

Mrs KM Quinn Head Teacher

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School Aims

• Create a happy learning atmosphere in which children will be educated in the knowledge, love and practice of our Catholic faith. With parental co-operation and support, pupils will develop a caring, confident and respectful attitude towards themselves and others in their day to day lives.

• Within the context of a well balanced curriculum, pupils will be active participants in all aspects of Learning and Teaching.

• All staff are encouraged to participate in Staff Development thus improving the education of each individual child.

• Develop a healthy, safe environment leading to effective learning.

• Encourage a working partnership between pupils, parents, church and the wider community.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES IN DUNDEE CITY COUNCIL The School takes careful note of the Equal Opportunities Policy Statement from Dundee City Council Education Department and will try to ensure that opportunities are open to all on an equal basis. Our Catholic faith already re-enforces the truth of the value and rights of each individual, and encourages the active involvement in an Equal Opportunities programme. Respect for the dignity of each individual, plays a part in our school ethos. This is fully recognised in our curricular programme, and in our Discipline Policy which stresses the need for self-discipline. This self-discipline is vital to ensure that all pupils receive the educational benefits to which they are entitled.

CATCHMENT AREA

St. Paul’s Academy Feeder School North-East Boundary Eastwards from a point east of Trottick Mains by New City Boundary to Arbroath Road. South Boundary Westwards from New City Boundary by a line just north of Arbroath Road: then by centre of Baldovie Road: then west by Dighty Burn to Forfar Road: then by centre of Claverhouse Road to a point just east of Barns of Trottick Mains. West Boundary Northwards by a line just each of Trottick Mains to New City Boundary by the Dighty.

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St Luke’s & St Matthews R.C. Primary School The children who attend St Luke’s & St Matthews live mainly in the Fintry, Mill of Mains & Whitfield districts. The school consists of two buildings – an infant block linked by a corridor to a two-level primary block. Attractive classrooms provide the setting for the children’s lessons. There is also a library which contains reference materials for children and staff and is also used at times for teaching, a large assembly/dining hall and a gymnasium with changing rooms. STAFF Head Teacher Mrs. K.M. Quinn Acting Depute Head Teacher Mrs. A. Curran Class Teachers Mrs Brankin Miss Cheape Mrs Duncan Ms Hendry Miss Kell Mr. Joiner Miss Lafferty Mrs Morton Infant Co-ordinator Mrs Nicoll Mr. Sinclair Mrs Williamson Miss Wilson Reduced Contact Mrs Curran Time Teachers Ms Monaghan Support for Learning Miss Maltman Mrs Greig ) Job Share Supply Mrs Lynn ) Early Years’ Practitioner Mrs Lochrie SEN Care Assistant Mrs Forrester Strings Instructor Miss Brough Brass Instructor Miss Ortony Active Schools Co-ordinator Mr. K. Brash Classroom Assistants Mrs Foote Mrs Joyce Administrative Officer Mrs Cameron Clerical Assistant Mrs Irvine Auxiliary Mrs New Eating for Health Assistant Mrs Sang Facilities Assistant Mr. McGregor Mr. Killorn School Chaplain Father M Pletts

School Roll 266 at time of print

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ENROLMENT While the council is anxious to meet the wishes of parents, if the number of places is limited in this school, priority for admission will be determined on the following basis:-

• Priority 1 – children normally resident within the St. Luke’s & St. Matthew’s catchment area.

• Priority 2 – children not resident within the catchment area but having a brother or sister at St. Luke’s & St. Matthew’s

• Priority 3 – children not resident in the catchment area and having no brother or sister at St. Luke’s & St. Matthew’s.

Parents of children residing in the catchment area whose children are 5 by the 28 February 2013 are requested to enrol their children by Monday 6 February 2013 for admission in August 2012. They should be accompanied by the child at the time of enrolment and also bring child’s birth certificate, proof of address ie a utility bill and proof of Baptism (if applicable). Parents living outwith the catchment area should make a placing request to the Director of Education, Dundee House, 50 North Lindsay Street, Dundee, DD1 1QE. There is an early transition programme with our feeder nurseries in the summer term. St Luke’s & St Matthew’s Infant Staff visit the Nurseries and their Staff in turn visit the school with the Nursery Pupils. The new P1s are also buddied with our P3 pupils. In early summer, children and their parents will be invited to an open afternoon in St. Luke’s & St. Matthew’s which will give parents an opportunity to meet the Head Teacher, Depute Head Teacher and members of staff. A talk will be given by members of the Senior Management Team and there will be a chance to ask questions. Parents will also be able to look at the various textbooks which the new Primary Ones will use. Meanwhile the children will mix with boys and girls from their new class.

SCHOOL HOURS

Primaries 1 – 7

9.00 am - 12.15 pm 1.15pm – 3.15 pm

DISMISSAL OF INFANTS Parents must collect their children or make arrangements to have them collected by an adult, on leaving school. If, for any reason, there is to be an alteration in the time of dismissal, parents will be informed, by letter, in advance. All children should be instructed where to go, should an extreme emergency occur, when the entire school would be closed, e.g. complete failure of the heating system in winter. Parents are requested to complete and return a contact form for each member of the family, giving details of such arrangements. Change of address, telephone number or person to be contacted, should be notified.

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SECURITY Pupils should enter the school via the gate at the south side or the corner gate. The only access for pupils after 9 am or 1.15 pm is via the main door on Longhaugh Road. The only entrance for parents calling to the school is via the door on Longhaugh Road where there is a doorbell. Please do not try to enter any of the doors from the playground designated for the pupils, even when the pupils are coming in or going out, this is a security measure for both pupils and staff. Children, even accompanied by parents, are not permitted to use the car park entrance located in Longhaugh Road, this is a safety precaution on account of the speed and volume of traffic on this road. A School Crossing Patrol is on duty near Longhaugh Nursery and just along from the main door on Longhaugh Road. Parents should encourage their children to cross at the specified crossings. All visitors to St. Luke’s & St. Matthew’s Primary School must report to the School Office.

The patrol times are as follows:

Longhaugh Road Crossing Longhaugh Road Crossing Next to the Bus Terminus Opposite main school door 8.30 am – 9.05 am 8.30 am – 9.05 am 12.10 am – 1.20 pm 12.10 pm – 1.20 pm 2.55 pm – 3.30 pm 3.10 pm – 3.30 pm If a crossing patrol person should be absent, measures will be put in place to cover i.e. notes home to Parents and occasional cover by the Police.

SCHOOL RULES

• All children and adults in St Luke’s & St Matthew’s must show politeness and respect towards others.

• There should be responsible behaviour and respect for school property eg in the classrooms, toilets and corridors.

• All children should be in the lines when the bell rings at 9am and 1.15pm ready for teachers to collect classes.

• All pupils should take a pride in the uniform of the school. The wearing of trainers, jumpers with logos or hoods, or hats with logos, is not permitted.

• Children are not allowed out of school, during school hours, especially to the local shops.

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• If a child has an appointment then he/she must be collected from the school office.

• Parents should ensure that children attend school regularly and on time. If your child is absent please telephone on the first day of absence or send a note explaining absence when your child returns to school.

• Hooped ear-rings should not be worn to school as it could prove a health and safety danger during school activities.

• Football socks, hats, scarves or emblems are not permitted to be worn to school as they can lead to arguments.

• Fighting is not allowed.

• Alternative arrangements will be agreed with Parents for children who do not behave during the lunch break.

• During wet or bad weather lunchtimes, children should not return to school until just before 1.15 pm.

DISCIPLINE St. Luke’s & St. Matthew’s expects a high standard of behaviour from all pupils. There is very good co-operation between parents and staff and I know new parents will be very willing to continue this partnership with the school.

CURRICULUM

In St Luke’s & St Matthew’s, there is a differentiated, well-balanced curriculum. Teaching/Learning opportunities offer a balance of individual, group and class instruction.

We adhere to the Scottish Office guidelines for the new Curriculum for Excellence which aims to achieve a transformation in education in Scotland by providing a coherent, more flexible and enriched curriculum from 3 to 18. The purpose of Curriculum for Excellence is to ensure that all the children and young people of Scotland develop the attributes, knowledge and skills they will need if they are to flourish in life, learning and work, now and in the future.

The curriculum includes the totality of experiences which are planned for children and young people through their education, wherever they are being educated.

As part of the Discipline Policy, St Luke’s & St Matthew’s operates a Traffic Light System. A weekly record of this will be found in your child’s school diary. This must be signed and returned to school on a Monday. It is school policy to consult with parents in matters relating to serious discipline problems. Parents will be either phoned or contacted by letter by the DHT or HT.

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It is underpinned by the values inscribed on the mace of the Scottish Parliament - wisdom, justice, compassion and integrity.

The purpose of Curriculum for Excellence is encapsulated in the four capacities – to enable each child or young person to be a successful learner, a confident individual, a responsible citizen and an effective contributor.

Parents are invited to special Open events within the school to see their child at work and find out more about the curriculum. The areas of the curriculum are: - English Language Talking Listening Reading Writing We encourage children to talk, as it is important for them to express their views and opinions in a clear and acceptable form. They have many opportunities to discuss their work, topics, in pairs groups and whole class situations. We encourage all children to be good listeners. Pupils discuss what they hear and voice their opinions. Pupils are exposed to a wide range of reading tasks in as meaningful a context as possible in all areas of the curriculum. Parents are involved in the earliest reading activities. Children in Primary 1 will bring home a reading book with pictures for discussion. Once a week your son or daughter, in P1-3 will, with your help, choose a book from the School Library to be read with him or her. Reading for pleasure is so important. Parents can help by showing an interest in the books their children read, by taking them to the public library and by allowing them to buy their own books. Research indicates that children who are brought up with books tend to do better at school. Pupils are encouraged to read for pleasure during Silent Reading times. We also have a school book fair in February, during the week of Parents’ Nights, when children and parents can buy books.

There is also Paired Reading throughout the school, where older children are tutors to younger ones for fifteen minutes each day. This improves the younger child’s reading ability and also increases the confidence of both tutor and tutee. When we talk about writing, we mean two things. One is to be able to use a pen or pencil correctly and the other is what the child is trying to communicate through his/her writing. Even

before your child can physically write, he/she is taught the fundamental skills of composition, which involves drawing, modelling, sand play and construction work. Through physical activity, story building takes place long before your child is introduced to letter formation.

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Pupils throughout the school are given opportunities to write in different ways for different purposes. Modern Language Four members of Staff including the HT and DHT have been trained to deliver foreign languages in the primary school. Mrs Curran and Miss Wilson teach French to Primaries 6 and 7. This arrangement does not limit the choice of language when the children transfer to St Paul’s Academy. Mathematics Number, Money and Measure Information Handling Shape, Position and Movement Problem Solving and Enquiry Mathematics is an integral part of the environment in which we live and pupils are taught appropriate work within realistic contexts geared to their age, aptitude and abilities. A major emphasis is placed on Mental Maths. Children from the early stages have daily practice in mental maths. Later on, they commit tables and other mathematical facts to memory. ICT

In the words of the HMIE publication Improving Scottish Education: ICT in Learning and Teaching (2007),

‘… staff in pre-school centres and in primary schools recognised that learners developed awareness of the world in which they live more effectively when this included engagement with the world through ICT.’

Being skilled in using ICT is essential if children and young people are to be effective contributors able to communicate and interact on a global scale. Across the curriculum, skills in ICT will be developed in the context of the learning and teaching as appropriate to the child. All teachers will have opportunities to apply, reinforce and extend ICT skills within and across curriculum areas to equip our children and young people with the learning and employability skills required for the 21st century.

The school has a well-fitted computer suite and computers in every class. We also have interactive whiteboards in every classroom and all the staff are regularly trained in the use of ICT. This allows the teachers and pupils to make good use of programmes and the internet to enhance the learning and teaching within our school. Environmental Studies Science Social Subjects Health

Information Technology Technology

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Children need to learn about the world in which they live, its history and geography and the scientific aspects, which affect it. We aim to foster in the pupils a desire to learn more about the world and teach them the skills needed to interpret it. Our school policy for Environmental Studies presents a progression of skills, a balance within topics and the development of concepts. Most

of the work is presented through projects. E.S. is also about developing an approach to learning. Such an approach involves learning by doing, learning through direct experience and involves observation, investigation and communication. Expressive Arts Art and Design Drama Music Physical Education These are integrated where appropriate into other areas of the curriculum. The class teachers provide a rich and varied experience for the pupils. Art A shirt or overall with long sleeves should be provided to protect children’s clothing.

Instrumental Tuition

Should you wish your child to be considered for instrumental tuition, he/she will be assessed on his/her suitability to the instrument offered. A hearing pitch test will be given, after which a selection of pupils will be offered instruction for a trial period no longer than one term. If your child is considered able to play the instrument competently, you will be sent a contract form and will be required to pay fees which are noted below. Daily practice at home is essential. At an appropriate stage your child will be expected to participate in extra-curricular musical activities both in school and at your local Music Centre. While Dundee City Council’s instruments are in your care, you are expected to make good any loss or damage and accordingly you may wish to insure them. Fees: Music Tuition £132 per year

Instrument Hire £ 83 per year Total £215 which may be paid in 2 instalments

Pupils are entitled to free instrumental tuition if their parents are in receipt of Income Support, Income based Job Seekers Allowance, support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999, Guaranteed Pension Credit, Child Tax Credit (with an exemption certificate PPA), or working Tax Credit (with an exemption certificate PPA) and an annual income of less than £15,860.

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Primary 6 pupils are allocated a set number of swimming lessons at St Paul’s RC Academy, transport being provided. This is part of the normal school curriculum and all children must attend, unless excluded for medical reasons, for which a medical certificate is required.

Active Schools Our Active Schools Co-ordinator is Kris Brash who works with our school. Active Schools Managers and Co-ordinators recruit, support and sustain a network of volunteers, coaches, leaders and teachers who in turn deliver physical activity and sport before, during and after school and in the wider community. The Aim Active Schools aims to get everyone involved in giving children an active start and encouraging them to stay active as they grow up. Active Schools does this by: -Increasing opportunities for all children and young people to become engaged in physical activity and sport - Strengthening pathways to participation and performance through sustainable school to community links Religious and Moral Education Religious Education is taught throughout the school. We aim to foster an interest in the Catholic Faith and more widely the Christian tradition. We help children appreciate that religion is concerned with relationships, which have implications for the value one sets on people for personal behaviour. We encourage in the pupils of St Luke’s & St Matthew’s a sensitivity and tolerance towards others.

Physical Education P.E. KIT SHOULD CONSIST OF:- 1. Shorts - preferably black 2. Gym Shoes, not trainers which are worn outdoors 3. T Shirt (not football top) – preferably red P.E. activities will include games skills, athletics gymnastics, dance and fitness at appropriate levels of the school

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The Religious Education scheme used in school is This is our Faith. This scheme has the support of the Diocesan Religious Education Adviser and involves parents, parish and school. The school chaplain is Father Martin Pletts. Mass is said in the school hall on various Feast Days. Class Masses are done on a rota basis once a month to which Parents and Parishioners are invited and Assemblies are held once a week. Each class is responsible for a Religious Assembly once a year, where the Parents of that year group are invited to attend. Pupils are prepared for the following sacraments: Reconciliation, Confirmation and First Holy Communion at P4. MASS TIMES ARE:- Our Lady of Sorrows, Finlarig Place Telephone: 502068

Sunday Mass 9.30 am

Under Section 9 of the Education (Scotland) Act 1980, it is stated that “any pupil may be withdrawn by his/her parents from any instruction in religious subjects and from religious observance.”

As you have chosen to enrol your child in a Catholic school, I would hope you would adhere to the traditions of the school. If you wish to discuss this matter, you are welcome to make an appointment to speak to either myself the Head Teacher, or my DHT. Support for Learning/ADDITIONAL SUPPORT NEEDS Since November 2005, there has been a new way of supporting children and young people who are not reaching their full potential. Most children make satisfactory progress in school and their education can be fully supported by their class teacher. Learning difficulties experienced by the children are discussed with the S.M.T. (Senior Management Team), the class teacher and the Support for Learning teacher. Programmes of work for these pupils are tailored throughout the year and discussed with parents on Parents’ Nights. Some children with significant additional support needs may need the support of an Individualised Education Programme. A very small number of children with significant and long-term additional support needs - may need a Co-ordinated Support Plan as well as an Individualised Education Programme. These will be children who also receive a lot of support from people outside education; for example, from health or social work staff.

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Every pupil is encouraged to work to the best of his/her ability and potential. St. Luke’s & St. Matthew’s has a close working relationship with the different support agencies. Our Educational Psychologist is Mrs Jill Nixon. If necessary, please contact the school for further advice. Support for Learning Information As a parent/carer you can access a wide range of information with regard to additional support needs. The information is available both at your local school and on the Dundee City Council website on this internet page http://www.dundeecity.gov.uk/education/support/ The following are available for you at the above internet page.

• Assessing Additional Support Needs

• Attending Pupil Support Planning Meetings

• Co-ordinated Support Plan

• Dispute Resolution

• Dispute Resolution Referral Form

• Mediation - Parent to Parent leaflet

• Supporting Learning (Dundee City Council Education Department, Support for Learning Policy)

• Supporting Learning in Dundee This internet page also has many other leaflets on related topics which might be of interest to you. If you cannot access the internet, please ask the school office if you would like a copy of any of these documents. The Additional Support for Learning (Scotland) Act 2004 as amended by the 2009 Act came into force on 15 November 2010. We try to keep all our documents as current as possible. They are in the process of being revised to reflect the amendments brought in by the 2009 Act to ensure the information is as up-to-date as possible. Information on additional support needs is also available to you from outside Dundee City Council. Enquire - the Scottish advice service for additional support for learning Operated by Children in Scotland, Enquire offers independent, confidential advice and information on additional support for learning through: a telephone helpline - 0845 123 2303 an email enquiry service - [email protected] an online enquiry service two websites - www.enquire.org.uk (for parents/carers and practitioners) and www.enquire.org.uk/yp (for children and young people)

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Enquire also provide a range of clear and easy-to-read guides and fact sheets explaining everything from 'additional support in the early years' to 'what planning should take place for moving on from school'. The Scottish Independent Advocacy Alliance Ltd The Scottish Independent Advocacy Alliance: is a charitable body under registration number SC033576. It offers a free of charge advocacy service which provides support for parents and young people from the time they have grounds to make a reference to the Additional Support Needs Tribunal for Scotland (ASNTS). Advice and information regarding this service can be obtained from their website - www.siaa.org.uk Scottish Child Law Centre,

The Scottish Child Law Centre is a charitable body registered in Scotland under registration number SCO12741.” It offers advice and support for families in regard of additional support needs. Special Educational Needs Authority Policy Children with special educational needs are catered for in the school within the terms of the Education Department Policy on “Support for Learning”. This policy sets out the procedure by which an individual child’s needs are identified and addressed, the central element of the process being a case conference involving parents, child, school and Education Department staff and, where appropriate, other specialist agencies. Assessment Throughout the school year, continuous assessment of each child takes place to ensure that every child is working to his/her full potential. Every class teacher takes account of individual pupil differences and plans accordingly. Forward Plans are scrutinised and discussed by the Senior Management. Each pupil has his/her own folio in which samples of work are kept, recording how well they are managing what is asked of them. Management also monitor the work in jotters at all stages. Records are passed from class to class-indicating strengths and development needs (areas requiring attention in the future). As a child develops, the teacher assesses the level at which the child is working in each area of the curriculum. The levels for Curriculum for Excellence are as follows: Early Level First Level Second Level

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House System We have a house system for St Luke’s and St Matthew’s Primary. The house names have been chosen by pupils and are related to Dundee; Slessor, Wallace, Duncan and Graham. Pupils are assigned to houses randomly, however, once a pupil has been assigned to a house, any younger siblings he or she has will automatically become members of that house whether they are already at our school or when they start. One notable feature of the house system is the nomination and election of house captain and vice captain, whose job it is to rally fellow house-members in any competition or event the houses are given. House Rules Points Shields will be awarded according to the House with the most points by assembly time on a Friday. The House with the most points will get 4 points, the House with the least gaining 1 point. To gain points throughout the week;

• Every child in the House is on green at 3.15pm

• Every child in the House has brought gym kit

• Every child in the House has full school uniform

• Any child in the House receives a kindness badge

• Any child in the House receives a gold card

At the end of the week the points have to be totalled and put on the House Points Chart, which is displayed in the main hall. These points will then be collected and Shields will be handed out to the House Captains to put on their board at assembly. All points will be added up at the end of each term with the presentation of a shield at assembly for the winning house. SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT PLAN Our 2012-2015 Improvement Plan concentrates on the development of:-

• Achievement for All

• Curriculum for Excellence

• GIRFEC – Getting It Right For Every Child In St Luke’s & St Matthew’s

• Leadership & Quality Improvement Homework Homework is normally given Monday – Thursday. The best homework is done with the support and help of parents who ensure that the work is done carefully. Parents are asked to sign the homework jotter/diary. As pupils become proficient readers, the focus of reading homework changes. Pupils will still be encouraged to read aloud in class but by Primary 6 & 7 they will be asked to prepare a story, or part of a story at home. This will involve reading the story thoroughly to themselves and it would help your child greatly if you could discuss it with them. The pupils will then be required to carry out work in class based on the story. If they have not read

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the story thoroughly, they will have difficulty doing the work and may fall behind in their group. THE SCHOOL PUPIL RECORDS (SCOTLAND) REGULATIONS 1990 These regulations make provision for granting access by parents and pupils to manually maintained records held on pupils. Parents and pupils wishing to avail themselves of this service must submit their request on an application form obtainable from the Head Teacher. PARENTAL PARTNERSHIP All parents are welcome to make an appointment to speak with the class teacher, Depute Head or Head Teacher. During the Spring Term, parents are invited to Parents’ Evenings to discuss various aspects of education and progress. Support for Learning Teachers will also be available to provide information on children. Times have to be limited to 10 minutes in order for the teacher to speak with every parent but parents are welcome to make another appointment if further discussion is required. Primaries 1-3 also have an earlier Parents’ Evening in November. Support of parents is vital to make sure attendance is regular, pupils are on time and homework done. NEWSLETTER St. Luke’s & St. Matthew’s Newsletter, The SLASM Post is published every month. This publication gives essential information to all Parents and Carers. EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES TAKEN BY STAFF MEMBERS: P3-4 Dancing Mrs Morton Wednesday 12.45-1.15 P6&7 Football Girls Ms Hendry Thursday 3.30-4.30 P6&7 Football Boys Mr Joiner Wednesday 3.30-4.30 P6&7 Netball Ms E Monaghan Wed 12.45-1.15 P6&7 Basketball Ms Lafferty Tuesday 3.15-4.30 P1-4 Kodaly Mrs Duncan & Ms Kell Monday 12.45 – 1.15 during Winter term Various extra Active Schools’ Clubs throughout the year.

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SCHOOL UNIFORM I would like to thank Parents/Carers for your support in promoting our school uniform. The children are a credit to you! Boys Black trousers White shirt School tie * Black shoes Red Sweatshirt/Cardigan with school badge*

or Black v necked jumper Black blazer with school badge Red reversible Jacket with school badge*

or Black Jacket Girls Black skirt or pinafore Full Length Black Tailored Trousers White shirt School tie * Black shoes White socks Black or red tights Red Sweatshirt/cardigan with school badge* or Black V necked jumper or cardigan Black blazer with school badge Red reversible Jacket with school badge* or Black Jacket Summer Uniform Red & White Gingham School Dress

* can be ordered/bought at School Office Order Forms for the School Sweatshirts, Cardigans, reversible Jackets will be sent home at set times throughout the school session. MARKING OF CLOTHING Please ensure that children’s names are clearly marked on all items of clothing, ties, gloves, hats, shoes, gym shoes, wellingtons, etc., in order to avoid confusion, especially in the changing rooms. Loss of any item of clothing should be reported immediately, either in person or by letter to the class teacher. If clothing is clearly marked, teachers will be able to identify owners of items of clothing. A sensible sized school bag should also be provided, as children will be given school books for homework. Schoolbags are on sale in school at a very reasonable cost. Children should be encouraged to take care of school books used at home and to ensure their safe return to school.

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HEALTH CARE Parents are requested to inform the Head Teacher of any health condition pertaining to their child which gives cause for concern, eg. Asthma, heart condition. Appropriate forms must be completed. This information is confidential and should be given to the Head Teacher or Depute Head Teacher. Permission is granted to children suffering from asthma, to bring medication to school for emergency treatment. Parents should make an appointment to meet with our Auxiliary, Mrs New and complete the relevant paperwork. The school must be notified in writing and all medication should be clearly marked with the child’s name and the amount and time of dosage. Medication in liquid or tablet form is not permitted to be brought to the school. Children should go home at lunchtime if they require medication, or parents may call at the school to administer the medicine if necessary. Primary One children receive a medical inspection during their first year at school. All pupils have regular medical and dental check-ups. There is an annual dental inspection for all P1 & P7 children. P1 and P2s brush their teeth on a daily basis under the guidance of our Healthy Eating Assistant. The Audiometrician tests hearing in Primary 1 and Primary 5 each year. Class teachers make referrals through the Head Teacher for the Speech Therapists to assess pupils with a speech disorder. These assessments are carried out with the permission of parents. Healthy Tuck St Luke’s and St Matthew’s has a Healthy Tuck Shop. Some of the items for sale are fruit

juice, milk, fruit, fromage frais, cereal bars etc. The pupils stop work five minutes before the bell and they eat their tuck in the classroom. No food is allowed in the playground. Thus playtimes are for playing, not standing around eating. In this way I hope to promote healthier eating and exercise.

CHILD PROTECTION / SAFETY

Given ongoing public concern about the subject of child abuse and recent changes in the law, schools are now required to report if it is thought any child has come to harm as a consequence of possible abuse. Two members of staff in each school have been appointed to be responsible for child protection matters and receive special training.

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In St. Luke’s & St. Matthew’s myself, Mrs Quinn and Mrs Curran Acting Depute Head are the Designated Officers for Child Protection. Should you wish to talk further about child protection and the safety of children please feel free to contact the school. The school has strong links with the School Medical Officers, Social Workers and Police, any or all of whom may become involved if abuse is suspected. We will always ensure that you are informed and participate in any action which we may take regarding your child. The Scottish Executive has agreed a Children’s Charter, which sets out what children can expect of all professionals working to keep them safe, and how the professionals will go about helping to protect them. Every child/family, in nursery, primary and secondary schools, receives a copy of the Charter. Safety regulations apply to all aspects of school life and children are expected to show a responsible attitude towards their own safety and that of other pupils. In interests of safety, pupils who stay at school for lunch may not leave the playground unless specific written instruction is communicated to the Head Teacher by the parent. Fire drill practices take place each term.

Protecting children As a school we have a responsibility to act in the best interests of our pupils. This may mean using our city wide child protection procedures which will involve communicating with other agencies, taking immediate action and recording sensitive information in order to keep your children safe. The school aims to work in partnership with parents but sometimes when there are concerns it may not be in the best interests of the child to have the parents/carers involved immediately. If you have any concerns you should approach the Designated Child Protection Officers (DCPOs), posters in the school will indicate who they are. Alternatively the number for Dundee City's child protection line is 307966.

SCHOOL CLOTHING GRANTS If parents are in receipt of Income Support, Income based Job Seekers Allowance, support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999, Guaranteed Pension Credit, Child Tax Credit (with an exemption certificate PPA), or Working Tax Credit (with an exemption certificate PPA) and an annual income of less than £15,860 the Authority will consider one application per year for a grant towards the cost of purchasing essential clothing to enable their children, up to the age of 16, to attend school.

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The school clothing payment will be made through BACS transfer into a nominated bank account or paid by cheque. Application forms may be obtained from the Head Teacher or Main Reception, Dundee House, or downloaded from DCC website. TRANSPORT City of Dundee Council Policy as approved by the Education Committee is that transport is provided: 1. To all primary school pupils attending their delineated area school and living

over 2 miles from that school. 2. To all secondary school pupils attending their delineated area school and living

over 3 miles from that school. 3. To those pupils whose journey between home and delineated area school is

deemed to be unduly hazardous. Parents with children who fulfil the above requirements, may apply for free transport. Forms may be had from the Department of Education, Dundee House, Dundee. INSURANCE The Authority insures against its legal liability for (a) accidental personal injury, or (b) loss or damage to property of third parties. Parents are advised that insurance cover is maintained only for circumstances in which the Council has a legal liability. Parents may wish to consider their own insurance arrangements. ATTENDANCE It is the responsibility of the parent to ensure that pupils attend school regularly and punctually. A note is taken of any child who arrives late. When absence occurs, the school must be notified on the first day of absence or a note brought for the class teacher on return to school. Where illness is of a prolonged nature, the school should be informed as to progress on a regular basis. If your child is absent and you have not notified the school, you will receive a text message. Continual absence might result in a referral to the Attendance Review Group. If your child arrives home from school during school hours, please telephone the school at once. Parents should try to avoid requesting children to be withdrawn on account of family holidays. If a child is off on holiday, this counts as absence. Parents should also try to make appointments for dentist/doctor after school, if possible.

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Parent Council St Luke’s & St Matthew’s has a Parent Council. The Parent Council is a group of parents who have been selected in accordance with the Parent Council constitution to represent all the parents of children at our school. Parents of any child at St. Luke’s & St. Matthew’s can seek to be part of the Parent Council in line with arrangements set out in the constitution. The Parent Council can co-opt other members as it sees fit. The aims of the Parent Council are:- To work together with everyone involved in school life – parents, learners, teachers, school staff and the wider community. To make sure that all parents have a say in their children’s education – and are able to express their views and wishes. To build links between the school, parents, pupils, nurseries and pre-school groups and the community. Our Parent Council meets approximately once each term. If you would like more information about the Parent Council please contact the school or the clerk to the Parent Council, Mrs Irvine, at the school address. At present we have twelve Parent Members, 1 Church Representative and 1 Staff Member. Parent Members are: Mrs Cassells (Lily P4b) (Chair) Mrs Dillon (Casey P6 & Aaron P4b) (Vice Chair) Mrs Glenn (Dylan P5/6) (Treasurer) Mr McBrearty (Holly P3a) Mrs Roberts (Jenna & Leila P2/3) Ms Glowacka (Daneesa P1b) Mr Branicka (Grazyna & Lidia P3B & P5)

Ms Krykwinski (Igor P1a) Mr Plichta (Rosalie P1a) Ms Keenan (Morgan P4b) Ms Simion (Nelly P4b)

Staff Member: Ms Monaghan Church Representative: Mr N MacQueen Adviser to the Council: Mrs K M Quinn Parent Council Clerk: Mrs E Irvine The Parent Council can be contacted through the e-mail [email protected] or St Luke’s & Matthew’s RC Primary School (Telephone 438602). The minutes of the meeting will be displayed on the Parents’ Notice Board in the foyer of school and also on the Church Notice Board

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PARENTS TEACHERS ASSOCIATION There is also a very active Parent Teacher Association which now comes under the auspices of a Sub Group of the Parent Council. A variety of social educational and fund-raising activities, take place throughout the year. Current Members: Mrs Cassells Mrs Glenn Mrs Dillon Mrs Roberts School Representatives: Mrs K M Quinn Head Teacher Mrs A Curran Acting Depute Head SCHOOL MEALS

A good two-course meal is provided in the school. Children may also eat packed lunches in the dining room or at the picnic tables outside but parents are reminded that any drinks included in the lunch box must be in plastic containers or non-breakable flasks. School lunches cost at present £10.00 per week and this money should be paid on Monday morning. The charge per day for School Lunches is £2.00. Please note : Pupils should pay either £10.00 per week or £2.00 daily – not 2/3

days at a time. Free School Meals are granted to parents in receipt of Income Support, Income based Job Seekers Allowance, Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999, Guaranteed Pension Credit, or in receipt of Child Tax Credit NOT Working Tax Credit and have an annual income of less than £15,860. Application forms may be had from the School or the Education Office. If you are entitled to free school meals, please ensure that you apply and keep your application up to date. If you don’t you will be liable to pay the cost of a meal(s) for your children until your application is renewed. We realise that some pupils prefer to go to packed lunches or to go home but if your application is current, this avoids difficulties with lunch money should a family emergency arise and your child has to go to school lunch. Should a child’s behaviour give cause for concern during lunchtime play, parents will be notified so that alternative arrangements for his/her supervision may be made. INCLEMENT WEATHER During wet weather, providing we have staff cover:- P1-3 pupils who attend school or packed lunches may be accommodated in the Infant classrooms.

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P4-7 pupils who attend school or packed lunches may be accommodated in the Assembly Hall. All pupils who go home for their lunch should return to school no earlier than 1.10 pm. PRIMARY/SECONDARY LIAISON The aim of our transition programme is to improve continuity for all pupils as they move from primary school to secondary by working together to improve continuity in teaching and learning between the two stages. Our transition Policy will endeavour to • promote continuity and progression in learning across the curriculum; • ensure that the skills, knowledge and understanding gained in the primary; schools are built on and developed at secondary school; • help to raise standards; • increase pupils’ confidence and self-esteem; • improve motivation and commitment; • encourage partnership between schools at transition; • enable teachers in both schools to learn from each other and to improve continuity in teaching and learning between primary and secondary; • improve consistency in assessment and tracking of pupils; • evaluate impact on standards. St. Luke’s & St. Matthew’s is one of the feeder primary schools for:- St Paul’s Academy Gilburn Road Dundee DD3 0EH Tel No: 01382 437701 Head Teacher Mr John Carroll Letters are issued in December to Primary 7 pupils regarding transfer to Secondary. The transition from primary to secondary school is assisted by the following liaison. Pupils of St Luke’s and St Matthew’s School, transfer to St Paul’s Academy at the end of Primary 7. Pupils who wish a secondary school other than the designated one must make a placing request. Notification to transfer takes place during the summer term. Staff from St. Paul’s Academy, visit St. Luke’s & St. Matthew’s to discuss with pupils arrangements for a school visit which takes place in early June.

1. The transition from primary to secondary school is assisted by primary-secondary liaison.

2. A Depute Rector and the Principal Teacher of Support for Learning visit the feeder

primaries and discuss the year’s transfers. The Support for Learning Teacher is

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told of special needs and learning difficulties encountered by some pupils, so that suitable provision can be made in the year ahead.

There is a Primary 6 & 7 Parents’ Evening when the parents of the new intakes are invited to St Paul’s Academy so that all aspects of the secondary school are fully explained. The Primary 7 children also visit St Paul’s Academy for a two day visit where they are notified of their classes. An opportunity is given to the pupils to follow a secondary school timetable, similar to one they will use in August. SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY LINKS St. Luke’s & St. Matthew’s Primary School is part of a Cluster group of schools which includes the feeder primaries for St. Paul’s Academy. The others are St. Vincent’s, St. Pius, St. Andrew’s, St. Clement’s and St. Fergus Primaries. The Head Teachers and Management Team meet regularly to plan joint curriculum projects and the teaching staff work together on various occasions throughout the school year eg In-Service Days etc. St Luke’s & St. Matthew’s is the only Catholic Primary School in the Parish of Our Lady of Sorrows’ R.C. Church. Our pupils receive the Sacraments of Reconciliation, Holy Communion and Confirmation in this church. Most of our pupils have been baptised and their parents are parishioners. Members of the congregation are welcomed to Masses, school concerts, Carol Services, Bingo Nights, etc and they in turn support the school by their prayers, encouragement and interest. Newsletters from the Parish and the School are shared and where possible the school gives support to parish events. Close by St. Luke’s & St. Matthew’s is another school – Longhaugh Primary. As Head Teachers, we are aware of how important good relationships are between us, since our pupils pass one another on the way to and from school and we are part of the same community. If any difficulties arrive, they are dealt with immediately – usually by a phone call to the Head Teacher – which tends to resolve any issues quickly. We have a local Community Policeman who is very helpful and liaises with the school. Our local councillors also visit from time to time. Everyone is interested in supporting St. Luke’s & St. Matthew’s Primary.

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Tickled Pink Day in support of Breast Cancer Awareness

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School Closure Information 2011 to 2013 Autumn 2011 Wednesday 17th August 2011 Friday 7th October 2011

Winter 2011 Monday 24th October 2011 Wednesday 21st December 2011

Spring 2012 Thursday 5th January 2012 Friday 30th March 2012

Summer 2012 Monday 16th April 2012 Thursday 28th June 2012

Autumn 2012 Tuesday 14th August 2012 Friday 5th October 2012

Winter 2012 Monday 22nd October 2012 Friday 21st December 2012

Spring 2013 Monday 7th January 2013 Thursday 28th March 2013

Summer 2013 Monday 15th April 2013 Friday 28th June 2013

School Holidays for Pupils

Autumn 2011 Monday 10th October 2011 Friday 21st October 2011

Christmas 2011 Thursday 22nd December 2011 Wednesday 4th January 2012

Spring 2012 Monday 2nd April 2012 Friday 13th April 2012

Summer 2012 Friday 29th June 2012 Monday 13th August 2012

Autumn 2012 Monday 8th October 2012 Friday 19th October 2012

Christmas 2012 Monday 24th December 2012 Friday 4th January 2013

Spring 2013 Monday 1st April 2013 Friday 12th April 2013

Summer 2013 Monday 1st July 2013 Monday 12th August 2013

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Single Day Holidays Mid Term 2012 Friday 10th February 2012

Mid Term 2012 Monday 13th February 2012

May Day 2012 Monday 7th May 2012

Victoria Day 2012 Monday 28th May 2012

Mid Term 2013 Friday 8th February 2013

Mid Term 2013 Monday 11th February 2013

Good Friday 2013 Friday 29th March 2013

May Day 2013 Monday 6th May 2013

Victoria Day 2013 Monday 27th May 2013

In-service Days

Monday 15th August 2011 Citywide

Tuesday 16th August 2011 Citywide

Thursday 10th November 2011 Citywide

Friday 11th November 2011 Citywide

Thursday 9th February 2012 Citywide

Friday 25th May 2012 Citywide

Monday 13th August 2012 Citywide

Thursday 8th November 2012 Citywide

Friday 9th November 2012 Citywide

Thursday 7th February 2013 Citywide

Friday 24th May 2013 Citywide

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Transferring Educational Data About Pupils

Education authorities and the Scottish Executive Education Department (SEED) collected data about pupils on paper forms for many years. We now work together with schools to transfer data electronically through the ScotXed programme. Thus SEED has two functions: acting as a ‘hub’ for supporting data exchange within the education system in Scotland and the analysis of data for statistical purposes within the Scottish Executive itself. What pupil data is collected and transferred? Data on each pupil is collected by schools, local authorities and SEED. The data collected and transferred covers areas such as date of birth, Scottish Candidate Number (SCN), postcode, registration for free-school meals, whether a pupil is looked after by his/her local authority, additional support needs including disability and English as an Additional Language (EAL), and attendance, absence and exclusions from school. The SCN acts as the unique pupil identifier. Pupil names and addresses are not passed to SEED. Your postcode is the only part of your address that is transferred for statistical purposes, and postcodes are grouped to identify ‘localities’ rather than specific addresses. Dates of birth are passed on as ‘month and year’ only, again to ensure that individuals are never identified. Data is held securely and no information on individual pupils can or would be published by SEED. Providing national identity and ethnic background data is entirely voluntary. You can choose the ‘not disclosed’ option if you do not want to provide this data. However, we hope that the explanations contained in this message and on our website will help you understand the importance of providing the data. Why do we need your data? In order to make the best decisions about how to improve our education service, SEED, education authorities and other partners such as the SQA and Careers Scotland need accurate, up-to-date data about our pupils. We are keen to help all our pupils do well in all aspects of school life and achieve better examination results. Accurate and up-to-date data allows us to:

• plan and deliver better policies for the benefit of all pupils,

• plan and deliver better policies for the benefit of specific groups of pupils,

• better understand some of the factors which influence pupil attainment and achievement,

• share good practice,

• target resources better. Your data protection rights The collection, transfer, processing and sharing of ScotXed data is done in accordance with the Data Protection Act (1998). We also comply with the National Statistics Code of Practice requirements and other legislation related to safeguarding the confidentiality of data. The Data Protection Act gives you the right to know how we will use your data. This message can give only a brief description of how we use data. Fuller details of the uses of pupil data can be found on the ScotXed website (www.scotxed.net). SEED works with a range of partners including HM Inspectorate of Education and the SQA. On occasion, we will make individual data available to partners and also academic institutions to carry out research and statistical analysis. In addition, we will provide our partners with information they need in order to fulfil their official responsibilities. Any sharing of data will be done under the strict control of SEED, which will ensure that no individual level data will be made public as a result of the data sharing and that these data will not be used to take any actions in respect of an individual. Decisions on the sharing of data will be taken in consultation with colleagues within and outwith SEED. Concerns If you have any concerns about the ScotXed data collections you can email the Senior Statistician, Peter Whitehouse, at [email protected] or write to The ScotXed Support Office, SEED, Area 1B, Victoria Quay, Leith, EH6 6QQ. Alternative versions of this page are available, on request from the ScotXed Support Office, in other languages, audio tape, braille and large print. Want more information? Further details about ScotXed are available on the ScotXed website, www.scotxed.net., which contains a section on ‘frequently asked questions’ at https://www.scotxed.net/jahia/Jahia/lang/en/pid/220.

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All details correct at time of going to print.

01382 431563

01382 431563

01382 431563

01382 431563