School Prospectus 2008 - 2009
“Together we achieve more”
A letter from the headteacher
Dear Parent/Guardian
Welcome and thank you for taking the time to look at our prospectus.
We hope it will give you an insight into our school and be the beginning of a partnership between home and school which we value greatly and will strive to maintain.
This booklet contains a lot of relevant information but we realise it may not answer all your questions, so please contact us for any further information you may require. We would welcome the opportunity to meet you, to show you around and discuss the opportunities our school can provide for your child. Please contact the school to arrange a convenient time to visit.
Our aim is to establish and maintain high standards of work and behaviour in a caring, welcoming atmosphere. In the most recent Ofsted Inspection (2004) we were described as “a very good school”. We are committed to ensuring that all our pupils are happy and keen to learn, and we value them as individuals with their own particular strengths and personalities.
We look forward to meeting you,
Yours faithfully
Janet Foster
Headteacher
Vision Statement/Equal Opportunities
Vision Statement ~ "Together we achieve more"
Our whole school community is committed to working together as a team to achieve our vision for Kirk Sandall Infant School.
Our vision is to create a happy, welcoming, secure and stimulating learning community where everyone is valued and respected. To work together to inspire and challenge all children so they become confident, motivated lifelong learners who have the opportunity to achieve their individual potential.
We will work in partnership with parents and the community to provide high quality learning experiences and a quality environment.
Our school will be a place where differences and cultures are celebrated. Where positive attitudes are promoted so children are well prepared to take their place in an ever-changing technological, multi-cultural society as caring, responsible individuals.
Equal Opportunities
The school is totally committed to equality of opportunity for all its pupils, irrespective of gender, disability and ethnic or religious background. We oppose any form of racism. Every encouragement is made to enable all pupils to experience and feel comfortable with all activities.
The school is sensitive to the individual background of each pupil and celebrates differences, cultures and beliefs. The whole school community promotes the personal, social and emotional develop-ment of all the pupils.
“The quality of education provided by the school is very good. Teaching is very effective and pupils’ learning is rapid so that their acquisition of skills, knowledge and understanding is very good”. Ofsted 2004
Admissions Policy ~ Nursery/Reception
Nursery
The Nursery is split into 2 sessions: Nursery AM ~ 8.50 am - 11.20 am.
Nursery PM ~ 12.50 pm - 3.20 pm.
The Nursery staff includes a teacher and two Nursery Nurses.
Children are admitted to the Nursery part-time in the September following their third birthday. Children may also be admitted to the Nursery in the term after their third birthday if places are available.
The parents of the children due to be admitted to the Nursery in the September are invited to visit the school during the previous summer term and again with their child just before starting school.
Nursery teachers like to visit the children in their own homes prior to them starting school. The purpose of this visit is to explain what happens in the nursery, to give parents the opportunity to ask questions and in general terms to help us to get to know one another better. We aim to establish firm partnership foundations between teachers and parents from the outset, so that ideas and expertise can be shared for the well-being and development of all children.
Reception
The parents of the children due to be admitted to the Reception classes are invited to visit the school and attend an information evening during the previous summer term. Any pupils new to the school are also welcome to visit during a session and meet staff and other pupils.
There is an induction period during the first few weeks in September. Children will at the beginning of term attend part-time and Nursery staff work together with those in Reception to help the children settle into school. Parents also have the opportunity to initially support their child over the lunchtime period.
Children are admitted to the Reception classes in the September following their fourth birthday.
The School Curriculum
The Foundation Stage
Children in the Nursery and Reception classes access the Foundation Stage Curriculum. They engage in learning that is primarily through first hand experiences. The Foundation Curriculum has six areas of learning. They are Communication, Language and Literacy, Mathematics, Knowledge and Understanding of the World, Personal, Social and Emotional development, Creative development and Physical development.
Learning and teaching is planned to enable the majority of children to achieve the Early Learning Goals for each area of learning by the time they move from the Foundation Stage into Key Stage One. The children’s progress is regularly assessed so that staff can plan effectively to support the development of each of the children.
Children in the Foundation Stage engage in high quality learning experiences both indoors and outdoors. Children throughout the Foundation Stage have opportunities to work with aspects of “The High Scope Approach” to learning and teaching which allows them to plan, do and review their own learning. Children in the Reception Classes also begin to experience the early stages of the Literacy and Mathematics strategies.
"The very good curriculum enables pupils to achieve very well. Opportunities for enrichment are good. The school is well resourced and the accommodation is very good, and these are used effectively to support pupils’ learning." Ofsted 2004
Key Stage One
Children in Years 1 and 2 are part of Key Stage One.
The National Curriculum for children in Key Stage One consists of the subjects listed below. They are:
English
Mathematics
Science
Information and Communication Technology
History
Geography
Design and Technology
Art
Physical Education
Music
Citizenship/PSHE
Literacy, mathematics, science and ICT are called ‘core’ subjects. Schools must also teach Religious Education. All the other subjects are called ‘Foundation subjects’. The school has developed a cross-curricular approach to learning and teaching.
We aim to provide a broad, balanced and relevant curriculum for all children that promotes the development of the whole child. In addition to the requirements of the National Curriculum we also focus on the social, physical, emotional, cultural and spiritual growth of each child.
We aim to build on children’s strengths, interests and experiences so they can achieve their full potential.
We aim to provide experiences that promote positive attitudes and self-esteem enabling children to develop the skills necessary for them to become lifelong learners in a multi-cultural, technological society.
Literacy and Mathematics
Literacy and Mathematics are taught each day in Years 1 and 2 and the school is committed to delivering the National Mathematics and Literacy strategies, which are now incorporated in to the National Primary Strategy. The Literacy strategy covers the teaching of speaking and listening, reading, phonic work, spelling, comprehension and handwriting.
The Mathematics strategy focuses on the development of mental mathematics skills, and also the teaching of number, shape, space and measures.
Children often work in ability groupings during Literacy and Mathematics lessons so work can be differentiated to meet the learning needs of all the children.
Science
Science activities are primarily practical and there is a strong emphasis on observation, discussion, investigation and the solving of problems.
Children often work in mixed ability groupings in Science lessons and children are encouraged to work co-operatively with others in a group situation as well as individually, and as part of a whole class.
Information Communication Technology
ICT is taught as a discreet subject but it also supports learning and teaching across the curriculum. There are computers in each classroom and a number of interactive whiteboards around the school that all classes have access to.
The school is well resourced with appropriate hardware and software. The school also has Internet provision with an appropriate educational filtered system being used.
Religious Education and Worship
This school has no religious affiliations. It is taught according to LEA guidelines and within the framework of the Education Reform Act. Although based mainly on Christian beliefs other world religions are studied so children develop a greater understanding of other cultures and global diversity.
All the children share a collective worship time each day. A yearly programme of themes is planned with religious, cultural, social and moral themes.
Sex Education
This is included as part of Science and Health Education topics in school and is introduced informally where it is felt there is a natural link with other parts of the curriculum. Any questions that may be asked by the children are answered in an honest and sensitive way appropriate to the age of the child. A copy of the schools Sex Education policy is available on request from the Headteacher. The school nurse also supports the teaching of the Science and health education curriculum.
Assessments
Children are engaged in self assessment and they are also assessed by staff to find out what they have learned and to enable effective planning of the curriculum to ensure the progression of each of the children. Records are kept in school and progress is tracked. This information is shared with parents / carers at open evenings / record of achievement meetings.
However during their time in school they will be also assessed in line with statutory requirements. A Baseline assessment is completed at the end of their Reception year and SATs (Statutory Assessment Tests) are administered and reported on at the end of Year 2.
Special Educational Needs
This is an inclusive school that makes every effort to identify the needs of individual children as early as possible and then is committed to meeting those needs appropriately. This may be done individually or within a small group situation. Special educational needs is a term applied to any child who has specific learning needs, personal or health problems which requires the school to make responses beyond what is normally accessed by the majority of other children. If we consider your child may need extra support the Head or your child’s class teacher will contact you.
Our aim is to ensure that each child is given the best possible chance of success. Children with Special Educational Needs may be supported in the classroom by their own teacher, by a specialist teacher or a trained Learning Support Assistant using a specific programme of work set for that child. We have the support of the School Psychological Service and outside agencies for any child who is experiencing particular difficulties. If a child is assessed as requiring a Statement of Special Educational Need support will be provided to suit his or her specific needs. Parents are consulted and informed at all stages.
Staff also identify children who demonstrate marked ability and skills. Through our programme for the very able and talented these children are provided with extension activities and opportunities to develop and extend their abilities.
The Head is the schools Special Educational Needs co-ordinator and can provide additional information for parents if required. Policies are available on request.
“Children with special educational needs do exceptionally well because activities directly address their learning needs. The learning of these children is very good because the special educational need support teacher explains to them what to do and how to do it”. Ofsted 2004
Partnership with Parents
This school values its partnership with parents. Education is seen as a partnership between the school staff and governors, parents and pupils because “together we achieve more”.
Roles and responsibilities of the school, parents and pupils are identified in the home school agreement. This is signed by all of us to show our willingness and intention to provide the best possible education and care for all pupils.
Parents/Carers are always welcome in school to help in classes or to assist with any general school activity to which they can contribute.
Although parents/carers may come into school at anytime there are open evenings and afternoons planned at least three times a year. These occasions enable parents to discuss their child’s progress and look at the work being done in school. Notice of these events is always sent home and convenient appointments can be made.
It is always possible for parents/carers to discuss any concerns they my have about their child or their progress at a convenient time. Class teachers, staff and the headteacher are usually available after 3.30pm. It would be appreciated if notice could be given to enable staff to make necessary arrangements.
An annual written report is available for all parents/carers each Summer Term.
“The school has good links with parents and the local community. Links with other schools and colleges are very good”. Ofsted 2004
School Dress
Girls
Skirt/pinafore dress (grey)
Blouse or polo shirt (white)
School sweatshirt, cardigan or jumper (navy blue)
Sensible shoes with fastenings that your child can manage if at all possible
Boys
Trousers (grey)
Shirt or polo shirt (white)
School sweatshirt or jumper (blue or grey)
Please LABEL each item of clothing with you CHILD’S NAME. This is really important as it means that items can more easily be traced when they inevitably go missing!
It is recommended that pupils wear school dress at all times. Sweatshirts with the school logo imprinted on them are available; they are good quality and attractive. You can order them from the school office.
PE Kit
Most children participate in indoor PE sessions in their underwear but they may bring shorts and T-shirt in a suitable bag if you prefer. Outdoor sessions are done in normal playtime clothing. Watches and jewellery must always be removed for PE sessions.
School Behaviour Policy
As a school we are committed to:
Ensuring good standards of behaviour.
Developing respect and tolerance.
Ensuring children are responsible for their own actions.
Giving children the opportunity to become independent and confident.
Valuing and praising effort, attitudes and achievements.
Promoting self-discipline.
Good behaviour is necessary for effective learning and teaching to take place. We consistently encourage good standards of behaviour in our school. Children are praised and rewarded appropriately and there are very good relationships between staff and children. Children are rewarded each week for good attitudes and behaviour with certificates that are awarded in Collective Worship and displayed in the entrance.
A booklet on the school’s approach to positive behaviour is given to all new parents. We aim to teach respect and consideration for everyone and everything in the school. Parents are invited to school to discuss any problems that are causing concern so that we can work in partnership to help your child if problems occur. The school has a very caring staff team.
“Pupils’ personal qualities, including their spiritual, moral, social and cultural development, are very good. Behaviour and attendance are very good, reflecting pupils’ very positive attitudes towards school and work”. Ofsted 2004
General Information for Parents
Attendance and Punctuality
The morning Nursery session is 8.50am – 11.20am and the afternoon session is 12.50pm – 3.20pm.
The main school doors open at 8.40am and registration is at 8.55am.
Lunch break is between 12.00pm and 1.20pm and school finishes at 3.30pm.
Your child is expected to attend school punctually and regularly. This is very important as absence and lateness affects learning. Please let the school know about any absence.
If at all possible holidays in term time should be avoided. Holiday forms are available from the school office that outline the official criteria that affect decisions that are made as to whether a holiday absence can be authorised.
Contact Information
Parents are asked to ensure that the school has up-to–date information of hours, places of work and/or contact person if you may not be contactable on your home number during the day. This information is essential in case your child is taken ill or involved in an accident. In cases where all contacts are unobtainable the school will act sensibly and responsibly in “loco parentis”
Safety
Children and parents should enter and leave the school site through one of the pedestrian gates and not the double gates meant for vehicles. Parents are requested to avoid parking their cars on the yellow lines close to the school entrances for the safety of the children. There is parking available at the Assembly Hall on Dentons Green Lane. A School Crossing Patrol is available each day at the Brecks Lane/Queen Mary Crescent junction.
In the interests of health and safety dogs are not allowed on the school premises.
Photographs
The school will seek permission from parents to use photographs of the children in displays around school, on the website and in the press. Permission will also be sought for children to access the internet.
School Meals
A midday meal is available for all children attending full time school. There are choices of foods available and the Lunchtime Supervisors, Cook and Kitchen Staff ensure that the mealtime is a positive experience for the children. The Local Authority fixes the cost of the meal and the present charge can be obtained from the school. Parents are requested to send dinner money each Monday in a named envelope. Please note that all meals must be paid for in advance. Packed lunches are an option if required (please do not send fizzy drinks or sweets). Free meals are available to children whose parents receive Income Support.
Fruit in School
The school has registered as part of the National Fruit and Vegetable Scheme and has recently gained the National Healthy Schools Award. A piece of free fruit or vegetable is available for the children each day and they are encouraged to eat it. If your child has an allergy or you do not wish your child to be part of the scheme please inform the school in writing.
Milk/Water
Milk is available for all children who would like it. Please complete the appropriate form and send the money in a named envelope on the first day of each term. Children entitled to free school meals are entitled to free milk. Children in the Nursery class receive free milk. We encourage children to bring named water bottles to school each day so they can have a drink when they need it.
Homework
As a school we value our partnership with parents and the part you play in your child’s learning. Homework helps a child to begin to learn independently and parents are asked to support their child with tasks and activities that are given as homework. A small amount of homework is sent home with all children during the year. It includes activities such as reading, finding information, spellings or maths activities. There is a homework policy available in school which any parents are welcome to request.
Annual Reports
Annual written reports are issued to all parents at the end of the Summer Term. They outline progress, achievement and attainment and comment on behaviour and attitudes to learning.
Jewellery
The Headteacher and Governors advise all parents of the possible risks of accidents to children taking part in physical exercise whilst wearing jewellery – earrings, watches etc. Earrings and studs cannot be worn for PE. However, newly pierced ears where earrings cannot be removed must be covered with tape. (DMBC guidelines)
No Smoking Policy
There is a strict no smoking policy in operation throughout the school premises that includes the playgrounds.
Complaints Procedure
Parents should discuss any problem with the class teacher or Headteacher in the first instance. Most problems can be sorted out in this way. If parents are still dissatisfied formal arrangements for making complaints can be made.
Details of the complaints procedure relating to the curriculum and related matters is available from the school or from the Education Department, P.O. Box 266, The Council House, College Road, Doncaster. DN1 3AD (Tel 01302 737202/203/204/205) on request.
Documents Available
Certain documents are kept in school which parents are entitled to see upon request. Please contact the Headteacher for any additional information.
These documents include:
Department for Education & Employment statutory instruments and circulars.
Policies and Schemes of work used by the school.
Published Ofsted reports on the school.
Details of Governors’ Meetings, Agendas and Minutes.
School’s/LEA Child Protection Policy and Guidelines.
Admissions Policy for Community Schools.
Educational Visits
Visits out of school are of great educational value. They provide a valuable experience for children as they enrich the curriculum and enhance learning.
Please support and encourage your child/children to participate in these visits. Your child’s security and safety is our main concern, so you can be assured that he/she will be supervised at all times.
In accordance with the 1988 Education Act we ask parents to make voluntary contributions. It is necessary for most educational visits to be self-financing, which can only be achieved if parents are willing to make a contribution towards the costs involved.
A detailed risk assessment is carried out prior to every planned educational visit. Parents are required to give their permission for children to be part of visits off the school premises. Parents are kept informed of the purpose of the visit.
The school is also committed to planning many opportunities each year when learning is stimulated and enhanced by visitors. Visitors in the past year have supported areas of the curriculum such as Literacy, Science, Music, PSHCE and Creativity.
Medical
School Health
The pupils in Reception and Year 2 have a health screening check.
Dental teams also visit the school to check teeth once a year.
The school nurse can be contacted through school if any parents have concerns about their child’s health or would like advice.
Infectious Illness
The Principal School Medical Officer has provided the following list as a guide to the time pupils should be excluded from school if they have an infectious illness:
Chicken Pox: 6 days from onset of rash
German Measles: 4 days from onset of rash
Mumps: Minimum of 7 days (until swelling goes)
Measles: 7 days from onset of rash
Whooping: Cough 21 days from onset of paroxysmal cough
Infective Jaundice: Not less that 7 days following the appearance of jaundice or until clinical recovery
Streptococcal Tonsillitis: Until clinical recovery is made
Contagious Disease
Recommended periods of exclusion for children with contagious diseases:
Conjunctivitis: Until recovered
Impetigo: Until skin lesions have healed
Lice: Until treatment received
Verrucae: Exclusion unnecessary
Scabies: Until adequate treatment is instituted
Threadworm: Exclusion unnecessary, but treatment advisable
Dysentery: Until clinical recovery
Ringworm of Feet: Exclusion from barefoot activities unnecessary, but treatment advisable
Athletes Foot: As above
Medicines
Parents are discouraged from bringing medication into school unless there are exceptional circumstances which have been discussed with the Headteacher. The circumstances are: asthmatics, diabetics or epileptics. Pupils with these conditions may require regular medication. A designated member of staff will take responsibility for pupils’ medication.
Please do not send children to school if they have had vomiting and/or diarrhoea, until they have been clear for at least 24 hours.
If your child has been ill, please keep him/her at home until you are sure he/she is fit enough to cope with the school routine.
All staff have accessed first aid training and have the ability to administer first aid. Parents are informed if accidents occur and contacted immediately if necessary.
Attendance - Authorised and Unauthorised Absence
School Year 2006/2007
Number on roll*: 235
Authorised Absence: 5.0%
Unauthorised Absence: 0.1%
Attendance: 95%
* Number of day pupils of compulsory school age only
“School Attendance” – issued by Department for Education 1994 clearly states under the Education (Schools and Further Education) Regulations 1981 the school has a discretionary power for leave to be granted for the purpose of an annual family holiday or an annual holiday during term time. Only in exceptional circumstances may the amount of leave granted exceed 2 weeks in any one year. No parent can demand leave of absence for the purpose of a holiday as a right.
Any absence during term time destroys the continuity of the child’s education and reduces chances of success. Absence in the weeks prior to SATs tests or external examinations will also disrupt revision and omit the reassurance that school staff can provide during the preparation period.
Parents are asked to take their annual holiday with the child during school holidays.
The information contained in this prospectus applies to admissions during the year 2005/6 and was correct at the time of publishing. It should not be assumed that there would be no change affecting the relevant arrangements before the start of, or during the school year or in relation to subsequent years.
