POWYS EDUCATION AUTHORITY

Ysgol Llanbrynmair

School Handbook

2019 - 2020 Prospectus

Ysgol Llanbrynmair, Llanbrynmair, Powys, SY19 7AB

Phone Number: - 01650 521339 Mobile - 07904003193 E-mail: - [email protected] School Website:- www.ysgolllanbrynmair.powys.sch..uk Twitter @ysgllanbrynmair

Welcome to Ysgol Llanbrynmair

We would like to extend a warm welcome to your child to Ysgol Llanbrynmair. Choosing the right school for your child is important. Most parents want a good education for their children, but we also want them to be happy and feel secure. At Ysgol Llanbrynmair we believe that we can offer all of these things. We are proud of the extensive, balanced and full education that we provide across the school.

Ysgol Llanbrynmair is one of three schools within the Federation of Ysgol Carno, Glantwymyn and Llanbrynmair since September 2014. The federation share one headteacher and one governing body ensuring that each of the three schools stay separately within the law by keeping their own individual identity. This arrangement builds successfully on the strengths within the schools.

The National Curriculum is taught by experienced teachers. In addition to the development of linguistic, mathematical, scientific and technological skills, your child will develop confidence, self support, will learn to make decisions and develop the ability to state feelings and ideas. We also emphasise the development of the child’s social skills and lead them to form a relationship with other children and adults, and to be sensitive to the feelings and the needs of other people. The teachers will ensure that the children move on at their own pace in order that they may reach their full potential. We work hard to ensure that all the children feel good about themselves and reach a high level of self respect. If you feel successful then you will succeed. The school language is Welsh, but our aim is for every pupil to be totally bilingual by the time they leave school at the age of eleven.

We feel that your contribution to the proccess is vital and we take every opportunity to inform you about the ways that we work with your child. We are eager to have the parents contributing at every level. If you would like to give of your time we would extend a warm welcome to you in the school. Childhood is a very important time and you do not get a second chance. You can depend on us to make the time as happy and productive as possible for your child.

Yours Faithfully

Bethan Gwawr Jones (Head Teacher)

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GOVERNORS

Since 1st September 2014 a new Instrument of Governance has been established a new Governing Body for the Ffederasiwn Carno, Glantwymyn a Llanbrynmair. As a result the membership of the new governing body has representatives from the schools and community in the federation. The following are represented on the Schools Governing Body: • The County Council • Community Council • Parents • Teaching Staff • Non-teaching staff • Co-opted members of the local community

It is the staff’s professional duty to present the curriculum to pupils in the classroom and the Governors will work in close co-operation with the Head teacher with regard to the systems, policies and support which are so important to ensure the best possible conditions for this process.

Chair of the Governors: Mrs Nia Meddins, Rhiwdyfeity, Penfforddlas, Powys Role of the Governors Name Headteacher Mrs Bethan Gwawr Jones Chair Mrs Nia Meddins Teacher Governor Mrs Bethan Williams Teacher Governor Miss Llinos Roberts Support Staff Mrs Elinor Ashworth Support Staff Mrs Sandra Pughe Parent Governor Mrs Angharad Butler Parent Governor Ms Non Pari Roberts Parent Governor Mr Iestyn Pritchard Parent Governor Mrs Sian Griffiths Parent Governor Mrs Alwena Watkins County Council Cllr Elwyn Vaughan County Council Cllr Diane Poston County Clouncil Les Cllr Les George Community Mr Aled Griffiths Community Mrs Heather Lloyd Community Mr Pennant Jones Additional Community Mr Dafydd Evans Local Authority Mr Iwan Morgan Support Staff observer Miss Ceri Vaughan Observer Mrs Heulwen Jones Observer Mrs Mary Thomas Teacher Observer Mrs Sarah Nicholls

Clerk Mrs Eleanor Jones

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The minutes of the meetings of the Board of Governors are to be seen on the Board of Governors notice board in the school and on the school website. Staff

Mrs Bethan G Jones Ffederation Headteacher Mrs Sarah Nicholls Assistant Headteacher / Years 5 & 6 Mrs Anwen Jarman Years 3 & 4 Miss Haf Howells Reception, Year1 & 2 Mrs Mair Ashton PPA cover teacher Mrs Nia Bleddyn Jones Mrs Sandra Pughe Teaching Assistant Mrs Claire Hughes Foundation Phase Teaching Assistant Mrs Teressa Jones Admin Mrs Bache Perepatetic Music Teacher Mr Carwyn Evans Perepatetic Brass Teacher Mrs Jane Vaughan Cook Miss Sylvia Evans Mid Day Supervisor Miss Sylvia Evans Cleaner

THE SCHOOL The school is a Welsh Medium Primary School run by Powys Education Authority.

This school accepts new pupils in accordance with the policy of Powys Education Authority. Since September 1997, children were admitted to the school full time at the beginning of the term after their fourth birthday (if parents so wish).

Parents are invited to the school before the child starts his or her school career to meet the Head teacher and the teaching staff and to provide information about the child. Parents of new pupils above compulsory school age are also invited to bring their children to visit the school in order to make it easy for them to settle in at the school at the start of their school career.

NATURE OF THE SCHOOL

Ysgol Llanbrynmair is a primary school in a traditionally Welsh area. Llanbrynmair has a rich cultural heritage and it is very important that the school is a focal point of that culture. Since the majority of the people who live in the school catchment area speak Welsh, it is essential that the education provided at the school reflects this. The pupils are given a taste of the social life of the area and contribute to it by taking part in the cultural activities arranged by the community.

A number of non-Welsh speaking families have moved in to live in the area over the last few years and have settled fully in the community. It is as important today as 4 ever before that the ethos of the school is Welsh and that the children are given the opportunity to develop positive attitudes towards bilingualism and skills in Welsh and English.

The school was opened in 1977 following a pattern that was one of the special features of education in Montgomeryshire which was to combine the primary school with the community centre in a village. The essence of this is that some parts of the premises can be used as a school and others as a community centre. Over the years the school building has met all the requirements of primary education and has also provided adequate facilities to enable the people of the area to take part in those activities which bind people together and enrich society.

Estyn Report 2018

The school is a familial, welcoming and Welsh community of which nearly all pupils are proud to be a part. The highly effective and constructive working relationship between pupils and teachers is one of the school’s excellent features. This contributes successfully to pupils’ very positive attitudes towards their work and the school’s inclusive ethos.

THE BUILDING

The school is partially open plan with three teaching units and one open classroom where the library is situated, and there is a warm and welcoming atmosphere to the building and the school. The school also makes use of the Community Centre Hall for eating school lunches, holding morning assemblies, singing and participating in physical education. The teaching units are used to house the different ages as follows: Reception, Yr 1 and Yr 2 Years 3 & 4 Class Years 4, 5 & 6 Class

Within this system the work pattern and arrangement of the classrooms varies according to the nature of the activities taking place at the time. The class-teacher will decide when to conduct whole class work/group work/individual work. The teachers will arrange the classrooms and resources in the most appropriate manner accordingly.

5 ETHOS OF THE SCHOOL

We believe ...

• that respect, courtesy and kindness are basic life skills.

Our wish is for the children of Ysgol Llanbrynmair...

• to develop into bilingual Welsh people so that they can contribute fully to all the activities of the school and the community; • to nurture an atmosphere of care, tolerance, fairness and respect towards each other and towards the community in general; • to develop an understanding of history and culture; • to develop to their full potential; • to be confident and independent; • to accept equal opportunities in all aspects of their lives; • to take pride in their school and community; • to live and learn in an atmosphere which provides care, happiness and security.

Estyn Report 2018 Nearly all pupils have exceptionally positive attitudes to learning. These attitudes have been established firmly across the school. Nearly all pupils are very eager to learn, persevere maturely with their tasks and strive to complete them. A diligent atmosphere is evident in all classes, and most pupils have a high level of ownership of their learning activities, which stimulates them to develop as knowledgeable and conscientious learners.

AIMS OF THE SCHOOL

As a school, we hope to reflect the community which we serve. Our main aim is to assist children to attain their full potential by means of a friendly partnership between the home, the school and the community. We encourage parents and members of the community to participate fully in the life of the school and we are proud of the fact that we as a school also have a key role to play in the life of the community.

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ORDER OF SCHOOL DAY

Morning session (Foundation Phase): 9.00 a.m. 12.00 p.m. (Key Stage 2): 9.00 a.m. 12.10 p.m. Afternoon session: 1.00 p.m. 3.25 p.m. Morning break: 10.20 a.m. 10.45 a.m. Afternoon break 2.15 p.m. 2.30 p.m. Lunch hour: 12.00 p.m. 1.00 p.m.

2 members of staff will be on duty at 8.50 a.m. and until 3.45 p.m. each day. Both gates are securely locked during school hours. The school does not accept responsibility for any child outside these hours.

Admission to school The Main aim of the school when admitting your child is to ensure a happy and secure transition from home/Playgroup to the school. The arrangements that are laid out below hopefully ensure that the seemingly large step of entering school is made as easy as possible for the child and yourself. You are welcome to contact the school to discuss any issues involved in your child’s admission, both in the period before and after they have started.

In Powys a child may be admitted to school, at the request of the parents/carers, in September following his/her 4th birthday, provided that the school has sufficient resources of staff, accommodation and equipment.

During the Summer Term the parents and children that will start school during the next academic year will be invited to an open afternoon where time is spent within the classroom and an opportunity to talk to members of staff.

BEFORE SCHOOL CLUB Our Before School Club starts at 8.15 a.m - 8.45 a.m. There is no need to book a place you just turn up on the day. There is a charge of £1.00 per child per day.

SCHOOL LUNCH

School lunch is available for £2.45 per day. The Authority aim to provide a balanced diet over a three-week cycle and include a vegetarian option. Please see our website for current menu plans. Powys Catering has launched a cashless system that enables parents to pay for lunches via the Parent Pay website. Every parent has their own login details and are able to make bank transfers. The school is unable to take any

7 cash payments towards school lunches. You may contact the Local Education Office on 01686 626395 for information about having free school meals.

You may wish your child to have sandwiches for lunch and this is possible. Glass bottles and cans are not allowed in the school in the interest of safety. A lunch time supervisor supervises the pupils during the lunch hour.

Free meals are available for some pupils. Forms are available from the office.

Pupils are encouraged to bring drinking water to school in plastic bottles and the yare encouraged to drink plenty of water throughout the day. A water fountain is available in school.

MORNING SNACK TIME

If a child requires a snack between meals, he/she is encouraged to bring fruit, or they can be purchased from the school fruit shop at a cost of 20p per fruit (open at 10.30a.m.) Fruit is the only snack allowed. It is important that the children bring a water bottle with them to school. Water is the only drink the children are allowed to bring to school. The pupils in the Foundation Phase class receive milk free of charge during the morning break.

SCHOOL TRANSPORT

To qualify for primary school transport, pupils must reside at least 2 miles from the school. Powys Education Authority provides this service and an application should be made to the Authority should you need transport for your child. A good standard of behaviour is expected at all times on the mini buses to ensure safety. Mini buses and cars collect pupils from the district to attend school.

For more information please contact the Transport Department, Powys County Hall, Llandrindod. Phone: 08456076060

ATTENDANCE

It is important that your child attends school daily in order to make progress. The school adheres to County and ERW guidelines regarding absences. Regular and punctual attendance is therefore very important. We ask each parent to send a note or text the school to explain any absence by the pupil, or we ask them to ring the school before 10.30 am on the first day of absence. Failure to explain an absence compels us to note the absence as unauthorised. Parents of pupils in years 2,3,4,5 & 6 are kindly asked not to take their children out of school during the National Test week in May.

The school will contact the Educational Welfare Officer if there are a number of unauthorised absences. 8

SCHOOL UNIFORM

The school has an official uniform and we hope that we can depend on you to encourage your children to wear it each day. Setting standards is one of our priorities as a School and I’m sure that you will agree that the appearance of the pupils leads to pride in the school. The school uniform is as follows:

Sweatshirt – red – these can be ordered with the school badge on them Skirt/trousers – grey/black Polo shirt – red - these can be ordered with the school badge on them Dark shoes School uniform ordering forms are available on our website or from the office. Pupils may wear one small stud earring in each ear and one ring. No jewellery at all should be worn in PE or Games lessons.

HOME - SCHOOL LINK

This school cannot succeed without the support of the parents. The Head teacher and the staff appreciate the parents’ interest in the education of their children and the support given to the work of the school and its various activities. To meet the Government’s requirements, each family is invited to sign a written agreement regarding the link between the home and the school. The agreement states the joint responsibilities, which the school and the parents have for raising standards.

All parents are welcome to visit the school. An opportunity is given to discuss the work of your child in parents’ evenings once a term. Parents are expected to attend these meetings every term. A short report is presented on the development of literacy and numeracy during the Autumn and Spring terms. A detailed report on the full curriculum will be presented at the end of the Summer Term. If any matter involving your child needs to be discussed, this should be done by arrangement with the Head teacher in the school.

Estyn Report 2018 One of the school’s obvious strengths is the pupils’ contribution and voice through the diligent activity of the school council, the eco council and the sports ambassadors. Nearly all pupils are extremely enthusiastic about shouldering responsibility and take pride in sharing information about what they are doing with others in governors’ meetings and whole-school assemblies.

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EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

The school is committed to giving all pupils equal opportunities and does not show discrimination against pupils or staff on the basis of their gender, physical ability, religion or colour. As a school we ensure that all the pupils are treated equally.

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.

ILLNESS

If your child becomes ill during school hours, we will contact you so that you can come to collect your child. In cases where we fail to contact the parent, we will contact the other telephone numbers, which you will have given us. We ask you to contact us immediately when phone numbers/addresses change.

Each accident is recorded in the Accident Book at the school, and a member of staff with a First Aid qualification will deal with the child. All members of staff are qualified First Aiders.

Each parent is asked to sign a form giving permission in case a child happens to need emergency treatment.

MEDICINE

Pupils are not allowed to keep medicine of any kind. No member of staff is able to undertake this duty without special arrangement with the school. If it is necessary for you to enter into such an arrangement with the school it is important that you complete the application form available from the school.

MEDICAL VISIT From time to time, the doctor, dentist and nurse visit the school to conduct medical sessions, which include sight and hearing tests. The parents will be informed if the child needs to be referred further. Parents are welcome to be present during these examinations. This should be arranged before hand with the Head teacher.

ALLERGIES

If your child suffers any allergy where immediate treatment is necessary, the school should be informed as soon as possible. We work in close co-operation with the school nurse who is available to instruct and to advise us regarding any emergency. 10

VISITING THE SCHOOL

If you visit the school during teaching hours you should ring the bell by the main entrance. No visitor will be given access to the school without doing so.

No child can alter arrangements regarding going home unless we have received a letter or a telephone call to explain the change.

The children are the parents’ responsibility outside supervision hours, and outside the school gates, and so parents/guardians are asked to meet their children by the gate at 3.25 p.m.

SCHOOL GROUNDS

The use of the school grounds outside school hours is prohibited except by those who use the Community Centre, or where a prior arrangement has been made with the Head teacher.

11 SCHOOL RULES

We strive to ensure a fair and safe community for the staff and children of Ysgol Llanbrynmair and in order to do this we ask you to adhere to the following rules:

• Ysgol Llanbrynmair is a Welsh school. With the exception of English medium lessons, the pupils are expected to communicate through the medium of Welsh. • The pupils, staff and parents of the school are expected to behave at all times in a courteous and respectful manner. • We would like the pupils to wear full school uniform at all times. • Pupils are not allowed to leave the classroom without the permission of the teacher. • Pupils are not allowed to leave the school grounds during the day without the permission of the Head teacher. • We ask you to label your children’s clothes, including physical education kit. • Pupils are not allowed to wear jewellery of any kind. Stud earrings are the only earrings allowed. • We ask you not to send sweets and crisps with your child to school; fruit is the only snack allowed at break-time. • We ask you to prevent your child from bringing toys/trinkets to school. These can get lost and this can upset the child. • The pupils should carry their physical education kit in a school bag and their reading books in a Reading Bag (available from the school).

THE SCHOOL’S LANGUAGE POLICY

This school is situated in a traditionally Welsh area, and in accordance with the policy of Powys Education Authority, Welsh is the main medium of instruction at the school.

When English speaking newcomers come to the school we make every attempt to ensure that they are happy and well settled before making every effort to teach them Welsh as soon as possible so that they can take their place naturally within the life of the school and the community. The Authority has Area Teachers who assist the school in this work

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THE CURRICULUM The curriculum in Wales is currently undergoing a period of significant change following the Donaldson report. As a result Ysgol Llanbrynmair has made exciting changes to its curriculum. It is a curriculum based on developing lifelong skills. We provide creative and purposeful experiences for our pupils based on the four purposes that are fundamental to creating successful learners. The curriculum is tailored to create: • Healthy and confident learners • Enterprising and creative learners • Ambitious and able learners • Ethical, informed citizens

Our curriculum includes the 6 new areas of learning within the Curriculum for Wales • Languages, Literacy and Communication • Mathematics and Numeracy • Health and Wellbeing • Science and Technology • Humanities • Expressive Arts

Estyn Report 2018 The school is proactive in preparing to introduce the new curriculum for Wales by planning activities that develop pupils as ambitious, confident, aspirational and knowledgeable individuals. Pupils, in turn, discuss how their activities develop these purposes in an extremely mature way.

FOUNDATION PHASE The aims of the Foundation Phase are to enrich the learning experiences that involve children to be creative in their imagination and have fun while learning. The children have opportunities to explore the world around them and understand how things work by taking part in practical activates that are fun and relevant to their level of development. The foundation Phase places greater emphasis on experimental learning, participation and development among the following: • Skills and understanding • Personal, social, emotional, physical and intellectual development • Create a positive attitude to learning so that they enjoy and want new things • Develop relationship with children and others • To use expression and observations to encourage their development as individuals with different ways of responding to experiences using their creative skills • To use outside activities where they have direct experiences of solving real problems and learn about conservation and sustainability.

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The Class follows a work-scheme based on the following teaching areas:

Language, Literacy and Creative Development Communication Skills

Foundation Phase 6 Area’s of Learning Physical Development

Mathematical Development

Knowledge and Understanding of the World Personal and Social Development, Well-Being and Cultural Diversity

How can you help your child?

Before your child starts school we ask you to encourage them to be as independent as possible. Please try to teach your child to:

• get dressed and undressed • use the toilet independently • wash and dry hands carefully • share with others • to take his or her turn.

Language development is crucially important in the early years. You should encourage your child to:

• listen to a story, a tape, a television programme or conversations in Welsh • talk by helping with shopping, cooking, gardening and joining in discussions of all types • count familiar objects, learn the names of colours • look at different shapes at home and in the world around us, talk about the time, seasons and days of the week. • play all sorts of language games.

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During this time, the emphasis is on learning experiences – this being developing skills involving communication, literacy and numeracy. By means of an integrated approach, we provide a rich and varied curriculum. We aim to develop the interests of the children, taking into consideration their level of maturity. These years are important, as the child learns to observe, listen, and develop, not only as individuals but also as caring members of the community.

Outdoor Learning Environment

During their time in the Foundation Phase Class the children may approach the following, using outdoor learning as a resource:

• understanding of the environment • knows the difference between animals, plants and objects. • To be aware of the seasons and their features. • Knows about the different types of weather.

Open Play Area

The Open Play Area was opened for the use of the Foundation Phase pupils and also for the benefit of the ‘Cylch Meithrin’. The area accommodates outdoor play toys, sand, and a climbing frame.

THE CURRICULUM IN THE JUNIOR CLASS

Your child will follow a curriculum in school which will develop the basic skills – listening, speaking, reading, writing, and Numeracy which will provide the opportunity to study and interpret the world around him/her, to develop a healthy, sociable attitude towards his/her fellow man, to enable him/her to gain varied experiences and the opportunity to express them.

The aim is to ensure that every child by the time he/she is eleven years old is fluent in Welsh and English; he or she will be a child who is aware of his/her surroundings and a child who will have been given every opportunity during his/her school career to maximise his/her potential with due regard to ability, age and interest. We are proud of the school’s success in achieving the third Basic Skills Agency’s Quality Mark.

The curriculum will at all times give the child an opportunity to learn within the following situations and experiences: expressional and aesthetic, linguistic and literary, mathematical, physical and recreational, scientific, social and environmental, moral and spiritual, and technological.

15 THE NATIONAL CURRICULUM

The National Curriculum is presented from Year 3 onwards (Until the introduction of the new curriculum 2022). The children are taught the statutory subjects namely

The Core Subjects The Foundation Subjects

Welsh History Mathematics Geography Science Design and Technology English (Junior) Art Music Physical Education Religious Education Information Technology and Communication

Each subject follows a work-scheme, which is an outline of the content and skills to be studied in each area for each Key Stage.

Foundation Phase 4 - 7years Key Stage 2 7 - 11 years

The class teacher will have planned each term’s work. Although the work is based on a seasonal theme the teacher will present a variety of aspects in order to provide the relevant depth and breadth to the subject. The teacher will also use a variety of teaching methods in order to present and teach work in a way that meets the requirements of each pupil as far as possible.

LANGUAGE

Each subject in the Infants Department is taught through the medium of Welsh. English is introduced as a subject from Years 3 to 6.

ORACY

Providing a variety of linguistic experiences across the Curriculum will be one of the school’s main considerations. This will be done within an atmosphere which will encourage self-confidence and fluency in both languages.

16 WRITING Our role is to develop specific skills, which will enable the pupil to produce written work for a particular purpose. Each pupil will be given the opportunity to respond in writing to a variety of experiences and stimuli.

READING Our aim is to nurture enjoyment. The school encourages the children to read at home with their families and each pupil has a personal record where the parents can record any comments. We keep a detailed record of each individual’s progress in both languages.

The Welsh language is the means of communication in all aspects of school life. Every effort is made to encourage and to enrich the awareness of the pupils of all aspects of Wales and the Welsh language. The Junior pupils will attend residential courses in the Urdd centres and we will be taking part in activities such as local Eisteddfodau, and the Urdd Eisteddfod and any other similar cultural activities which will prepare the pupils to use and practise their language in relevant situations.

An emphasis is placed on class and school visits, and the Theatre in Education company – Theatre Powys – also visits the school regularly. English is offered as a subject in Year 3. We will ensure that our pupils can read, write, speak and listen to the language confidently and with enjoyment.

MATHEMATICS / NUMERACY The basic scheme used in the Foundation class and in the key stage 2 class is the ‘Rigby Scheme’ although the Foundation class develops the pupils understanding of number by using Numicon. The scheme builds on the pupil’s mathematical skills in a structured manner. The pupils will also develop mental arithmetic skills. Termly, pupils are asked to work on specific thinking skills activities by working through the ‘Let’s think through Maths’ years 1 – 4 and CAME in years 5 & 6 programme.

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY Scientific skills, processes and concepts are developed through research and experimentation in the Foundation Phase as part of the Knowledge and Understanding of the World area of learning and at Key Stage 2.

Information technology is presented across the curriculum in order to develop skills and to be of practical use when introducing information, teaching and communicating. Pupils of all ages will use a variety of sources such as ipads and various programmes in order to research and learn, and use the Internet. There is an interactive board in each classroom and extensive use is made of them. We have recently bought new laptops and i-pads which are used by all pupils throughout the school on a daily basis. The school has e-safety policies and procedures which are adhered to stringently.

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During design and technology lessons the children are given the opportunity to use a variety of materials, and to design, build and evaluate a variety of items.

HUMANITIES Our aim is to develop an awareness of the link between people, locations and space. We will encourage the children to learn about the world, to use mapping skills and to consider the environment, to understand man’s effect on our environment and to appreciate his role within the environment.

The pupils will develop their awareness and understanding of the past. The concept of time will be developed and the children will be taught to use historical sources, and the difference between truth, history and fiction.

EXPRESSIVE ARTS MUSIC Each pupil will be given the opportunity to • perform published work together with his or her own work for a variety of audiences • to listen to and appreciate music which derives from a variety of cultures and historical periods • to compose his or her own work on a variety of instruments including the voice.

Additional Music Lessons Mrs Bache a guitar and piano teacher visits the school to give lessons on a weekly basis. Parents are asked to pay an additional fee for these lessons. The children who receive tuition are expected to practise on a daily basis and bring their instrument to school on the day of their lesson.

ART We will nurture an understanding of the work of artists and contemporary and historical arts. The children will be given the opportunity to develop their creativity using a vast variety of materials such as paint, clay and fabric. From time to time the children will be given the opportunity to work with professional artists to create single or group piece of work.

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RELIGIOUS EDUCATION

This school has no formal, direct connection with any religious denomination. The work in this subject is based on the Authority’s Agreed Syllabus and a copy of this Agreed Syllabus can be viewed at the school. Acts of worship on Christian lines are held at the school, which will provide an opportunity for the children and the staff to assemble as a unit to share the experience of worshipping and rejoicing together. We welcome visitors to take part in our service e.g. the Rector, Minister or a charitable representative. Arrangements can be made for children whose parents do not wish them to attend the religious service or similar studies.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

The school gives the children the opportunity to develop their physical skills through Physical Education lessons which will include elements of gymnastics, dance, sports and drama.

These lessons are held in the hall or outside on the yard when the weather is suitable.

Each child is expected to dress properly for these lessons – in shorts and T-shirts. In the same way all the pupils are expected to dress properly for sports, i.e. trainers, football boots, T-shirts and shorts. The teachers have the right to exclude a pupil from lessons if he or she attends regularly without appropriate clothing.

Each pupil is expected to take part in the physical education lessons unless a letter is received from a parent or guardian.

SPORTS The school places an emphasis on sport and keeping fit. The pupils are encouraged to take part in competitions within the school, within the catchment area and on a county level. Each pupil is given the opportunity to attain a recognised standard according to his/her ability by attaining swimming badges and certificates. Each pupil will take part in the annual sports and a shield is given to the pupil who wins the highest number of marks.

19 SWIMMING

Arrangements are made for the pupils to learn to swim at Bro Ddyfi Leisure Centre, Machynlleth. Each pupil will be given the opportunity to attend the centre every other Friday, and to learn Swimming and Life Saving skills to the standard required by the National Curriculum. Because of safety implications, the wearing of swimming goggles is prohibited. If you wish your child to wear them she/he can do so but you will assume responsibility and a letter should be written to confirm this. Each pupil is expected to swim unless there is a medical reason for not doing so. We kindly ask for a contribution of £5.00 per term towards the transport costs. Pupils are not allowed to take money with them to the Centre to buy sweets etc.

HOMEWORK

Children are encouraged to read at home with their families. The frequency and nature of the work increases as the child grows and progresses from year to year within the school. The school will provide Homework for Years 3 to 6 pupils once a week. In addition to this, spelling and table’s tests will be given regularly. Each pupil has his own personal Homework book or file. The purpose of homework is to reinforce work in the classroom

ASSESSMENT

Teachers record each child’s progress continuously and this, together with specific reading, spelling and numeracy tests allow the teachers to plan work that is appropriate for each child. National Curriculum assessments are undertaken at 7 and 11 years of age as well Cognitive Ability Tests at 9 years. These assessments all build up the information we have about how the children are progressing and also help us as a school evaluate our standards and expectations.

REPORTS

Towards the end of the school year, each pupil will receive a written report which will give parents an indication of the progress achieved during the year. There will also be an opportunity each term for parents to formally visit the school to discuss their child’s progress with the class teacher or the Headteacher. However if a parent has any concerns about their child’s progress or any other issue, then they are very welcome to discuss this with the class teacher at an appropriate time e.g. beginning or end of school.

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ADDITIONAL LEARNING NEEDS

Special attention is given to each child with additional needs – whether they are exceptionally able or have various disabilities.

There is a procedure to ensure that children who need additional educational assistance are given special attention by the class teachers and by the Additional Learning Needs Co-ordinator.

The school adheres to a strict policy regarding the teaching of children with Additional Learning Needs. Additional support is provided in the classroom, by the class teacher and the Additional Learning Needs Co-ordinator. The school will consult the parents regularly to discuss any problems and any further steps we will be taking.

SEX EDUCATION AND PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

Sex education within the school is based on county guidelines and the school’s policy as agreed with the Governing Body. An emphasis is placed on raising awareness and developing the skills which are important for the promotion of personal health.

CHILD PROTECTION PROCEDURES

All members of staff within this school are responsible for the safety and protection of the pupils. If there are any concerns regarding neglect or physical, emotional or sexual abuse then, under the County’s Child Protection Procedures, staff are duty bound to report the matter of the school’s Child Protection Co-ordinator.

The school’s Co-ordinator may consult with professional colleagues as well as relevant agencies such as Health and Social Services. Following these discussions the school’s Co-ordinator may be obliged to make an official referral to the Social Services Department in accordance with the county guidelines and protocol. It is the Social Services Department who decides on the next course of action.

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The Head Teacher Mrs Bethan Jones is the school’s Child Protection co-ordinator, with Miss Elain Heledd deputising in her absence.

PASTORAL CARE

During the school day the children are always under the supervision of a responsible adult. Teachers are not only responsible for their own classes but also any other child whom they come into contact. During the lunch break the mid-day supervisors will care for the children but the Headteacher and/or members of the teaching staff will also be present. If a child has an accident in the school then staff will take such action as is necessary until the parents have been informed. Parents can then decide if it is advisable to take their child to a doctor or the hospital. In the event of being unable to contact parents, a member of staff will take the appropriate action i.e. arrange for the child to be taken to the surgery or hospital. Should a child be taken ill then parents will be notified and requested to collect him/her from school. It is for this reason that the school has the following up to date information on record: • your doctor’s name, address and telephone number • your home and place of work telephone number where you can be contacted during school hours. • the name and address and telephone number of a relative or close friend • where your child can be taken in the event of your not being available.

I would like to add that all members of staff wish to work with parents and provide for all their children’s needs. Should any parent have any personal difficulties or problems which could relate to the well being of a child then all information received will be treated as strictly confidential and every effort will be made to provide the parent with any help he or she may require.

CONDUCT

The children are disciplined in school according to the Powys Education Authority policy and according to the Code of Conduct formulated for the school.

Pupils should behave appropriately at all times. This includes good behaviour in the classroom, the hall, the lunchroom, the yard and toilets and also when coming to and from school.

THE SCHOOL’S CODE OF CONDUCT

Courtesy I shall be courteous towards other pupils and adults. I shall behave courteously in the classroom, the hall, the changing room, the foyer, the toilet and the yard.

22 I shall eat my food quietly. I shall not rush or push, but will walk sensibly. I shall not use inappropriate language.

Kindness I shall be kind towards other people. I shall help new pupils to settle in the school. I shall not behave in a nasty or threatening way towards others. I shall not exclude other children when playing.

Respect I shall respect other children. I shall respect parents who work at or visit the school. I shall respect the property of other children. I shall respect the property of the school. I shall not throw litter on the floor.

I want to grow up showing kindness, respect and courtesy towards other people – that is the aim of each pupil at Ysgol Llanbrynmair.

METHODS OF DEALING WITH BAD BEHAVIOUR

The school encourages good conduct and positive attitudes towards pupils and adults. But if any pupil behaves in contravention of the school’s code of conduct, the following steps will be taken. Each teacher/teaching support assistant has the right to draw a child’s attention to bad behaviour and to punish him/her by taking the following steps:

1. Having a word with the pupil. 2. Setting a punishment – writing about the event, keeping the pupil in at playtime/lunchtime for one period or more according to the seriousness of the misconduct. 3. Send the pupil to the Head teacher to discuss the matter/event. 4. If the pupil continues to misbehave following these steps, the parent/guardian must be contacted by letter or telephone call. 5. The parent/guardian is invited in to discuss the bad behaviour. 6. In the event of regular misconduct, a ‘contract’ will be given to the child (with the support of the parent/guardian) to adhere to school rules. 7. In the event of a serious incident or where a child fails to adhere to the ‘contract’, the child would be suspended for a specific period.

The Governing Body and the Education Authority must be notified in the event of exclusion.

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HEALTHY SCHOOLS The school is part of the Powys Healthy Schools programme. Pupils are encouraged to eat fruit at morning snack times. The Foundation Phase pupils have a free drink of milk at morning break and pupils in the junior class are able to buy a glass of milk or orange juice for 25p a day. The school cook follows the healthy menu set by Powys County Council. The Foundation Phase pupils grow vegetables in the garden to sell them in the Farmers Market during the Summer Term.

SCHOOL COUNCIL AND PUPIL VOICE

The school council AND Eco Team play an important part in educating our children as global citizens. It demonstrates to them a democratic process and encourages them to see themselves as people who can make things happen. Children elect representatives from their class to sit on the council which meets every half term and is a forum for raising, discussing and implementing issues that the children feel are important. The school has Digital Wizards in every class that assist pupils with ICT issues as required. The pupils who are part of the ‘Criw Cymraeg’ committee organise various activities to raise awareness of the Welsh language within the school and outside in the wider community.

ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES

We support activities in the local community and we arrange activities and invite the public to join us. We support a number of charitable organisations. We encourage the children to join the Urdd and to take part in a number of activities. Activities are occasionally arranged to raise money for the School Fund.

EDUCATIONAL VISITS

When trips, theatre visits and visits to other centres are arranged, we ask for a contribution to assist with the costs. A permission form is signed for such visits at the beginning of the Autumn Term. The level of contribution may be varied at the Head teacher’s discretion if there are more than 2 pupils at the school from the same family.

FRIENDS OF YSGOL LLANBRYNMAIR

The Friends of Ysgol Llanbrynmair were established to support the work of the school by raising money to buy resources and to assist and support teachers outside the classroom as required. Each family is encouraged to be represented on the

24 ‘Friends’, but if it is not possible to attend the meetings, we hope to see each family joining in the activities arranged.

PRIMARY / HIGH SCHOOL CONTACT During the school year, the pupils of Year 6 have the opportunity to visit Ysgol Bro Hyddgen, Machynlleth. The pupils visit the school, taking part in various lessons, such as Technology, French, Science and P.E. There is a close link between Ysgol Llanbrynmair and Ysgol Bro Hyddgen. Courses and meetings are organised regularly between the staff of the two schools

SHIELDS AND CERTIFICATES

At the end of the school year pupils are presented with shields and certificates in the End of Term Service.

Sports Shield Adwy Deg Shield – for effort and perseverance Welsh Shield – for effort in Welsh Certificates for Presence – for full attendance thorough the year Leaving Certificates – for all Year 6 pupils

25 PUPIL ATTENDANCE RECORD 2018-19

Attendance percentages are based on records in the school’s registers. Unauthorised absences are those which are notified by parents, and they can be due to illness or other reasonable reasons. The details of pupils’ attendance for 2018-19 were as follows:

Attendance - 96.3% Authorised absence – 3.5% Unauthorised absence – 0.2%

POLICIES

Copies of the policies are available for parents to read at the school. Please give 15 days’ notice if you wish to view any relevant document. Some policies are also available on the school website.

COMPLAINTS

The Head teacher receives any enquiries in cases of complaints. Please contact the school in person or by correspondence. A copy of the school’s Complaints Policy is available form the Head teacher or from the County.

SCHOOL PERFORMANCE The table below shows the school’s performance during the 2016-2017 academic year compared to our family of schools, primary schools within the local authority and throughout Wales.

FOUNDATION PHASE

The table below shows the percentage of children who achieved a Foundation Phase Outcome 5 + at the end of year 2 within the three main areas of learning. The expected level at the end of year 2 is Outcome 5 providing that the pupils do not have significant learning needs.

Area of Study Outcome 5 Outcome 5 Personal and Social 100% 100% Development Language and 100% 14.29% communication Mathematical 100% 14.29% Development

26 END OF KEY STAGE 2 RESULTS

Below is a table that shows the percentage of children achieving level 4+ within the core subjects (Welsh, English, Mathematics and Science. It is expected that pupils will achieve a level 4 or above at the end of Key Stage 2.

Subject Level 4 Level 5 Welsh 100 % 14.29% English 100 % 29% Mathematics 100 % 42.87% Science 100 % 14.29%

School Calendar 2019 - 2020

Autumn Term 2019 Non-Pupil Days No of School Days

Tuesday 3rd September Monday 2nd September 39 to

Friday 25th October Half Term – Monday 28th October to Friday 1st November

Tuesday 5th November Monday 4th November 34 to Friday 20th December

Spring Term 2020 Non-Pupil Days No of School Days

Tuesday 7th January Monday 6th January 29 to Friday 14th February Half Term – Monday 17th February to Friday 21st February

Monday 24th February 30 to Friday 3rd April

Summer Term 2020 Non-Pupil Days No of School Days

Tuesday 21st April Monday 20th April 23 to Directed Teacher Day Friday 22nd May Half Term – Monday 25th May to Friday 29th May

Monday 1st June Monday 20th July 35 to Friday 17th July

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The information in this booklet is correct at the time of publication. It cannot be assumed that no amendments will be made to the procedure described during the year nor during future years.

Revised July 2019

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