Ysgol Glantwymyn School Prospectus

2018 - 2019

Ysgol Glantwymyn

Glantwymyn

Machynlleth

Powys

SY20 8LX

Phone Number: - 01650 511394

E-mail: - office@glantwymyn.powys.sch.uk

School website:- www.ysgolglantwymyn.powys.sch..uk

Twitter: - @YsgolGlantwymyn

Welcome to Ysgol Glantwymyn

Dear Parents/Guardians,

We would like to extend a warm welcome to your child to Ysgol Glantwymyn. 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 Glantwymyn 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.

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.

Ysgol Glantwymyn 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.

Yours Faithfully

Bethan Gwawr Jones Headteacher Ffederasiwn Carno, Glantwymyn and Llanbrynmair

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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, Staylittle, Llanbrynmair, 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 CllrLes 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 Miss Elain Heledd

3 Parent Governor Observer Mrs Sioned Campbell Clerk Mrs Eleanor Jones

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.

SCHOOL STAFF

Mrs Bethan G Jones Ffederation Headteacher Miss Manon Evans / Years 5 & 6 Mrs Lisa Morris Mrs Lowri Evans / Years 3 & 4 Mrs Mair Ashton Miss Llinos Roberts RReception & Year 1 teacher / Assistant Headteacher Mrs Megan Jones Teaching Assistant Miss Ceri Vaughan Teaching Assistant Mrs Meleri Lewis Foundation Phase Teaching Assistant Mrs Teressa Jones Admin Mrs Sally Marshall Perepatetic Music Teachers Mr Duncan Bache

Mrs Carri Daniel Cook Mrs Nerys Williams Kitchen Assistant Mrs Lilian Owen Mid Day Supervisor Mrs Heather Williams Caretaker Mrs Janet Ellis 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. From September 2017 children are admitted to the school in the September following their fourth birthday.

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. Children will come and spend time in the classroom during the summer term as part of their Cylch Meithrin timetable.

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NATURE OF THE SCHOOL

Welsh Medium Community School - the school was officially opened on the 7th of September, 1971 following the closure of Aberhosan, Cemaes, Comins Coch and Llanwrin schools. Welsh is the language of the school, and the aim is for every child to be bilingual by the time they leave the school at eleven years old. The chidlren have a sense of the area’s social life and contribute to it by taking part in cultural events organised by the community,such as local Eisteddfodau.

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 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 BUILDING

The school is partially open plan with four 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 special assemblies, singing and participating in physical education. The teaching units are used to house the different ages as follows: Reception, Year 1 & 2 Years 3 & 4 Years 5 &

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.

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ETHOS OF THE SCHOOL

We believe ...

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

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

 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 2014 “The school is a safe and caring community that appreciates each pupil equally. It supports pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development successfully, especially through its close links with the community. There are beneficial arrangements for supporting pupils’ health and wellbeing. The school encourages pupils to take part in its activities and to represent the school in the community and beyond”.

6 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.

ORDER OF SCHOOL DAY Morning Session (Foundation Phase) 9.00 a.m. – 12.00 p.m. (Juniors) 9.00 a.m – 12.10 p.m Afternoon session: 1.00 p.m. – 3.30 p.m. Morning break: 10.30 a.m. – 10.45 a.m. Egwyl y Prynhawn: 2.15 p.m. – 2.30 p.m.

2 members of staff will be on duty at 8.45 a.m. and until 3.45 p.m. each day. The school does not accept responsibility for any child outside these hours. Kindly ensure that your child arrives in school and is collected on time.

ATTENDANCE

The main message is that every minute counts. The Government believes that pupils who are absent fall behind their friends and often fail to fill gaps in their skills and knowledge – sometimes in basics like reading and writing. Some never catch up. Punctuality is very important too as every minute counts! Please remember that lessons commence at 9.00a.m

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 to 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 - 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.

7 PUPIL ATTENDANCE RECORD 2017-18

Attendance percentages are based on records in the school’s registers. Authorised 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 2017-18 were as follows:

Attendance - 93.73% Authorised absence – 5.85% Unauthorised absence – 0.43%

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.

Following set guidelines from the Local Authority the school welcomes children in the September following their 4th Birthday.

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.

If any parent would like to be shown around the school, please contact the Headteacher to arrange a suitable time.

BEFORE SCHOOL CLUB

Our Before School Club opens in the school at 8.15 a.m. - 8.45 a.m. The children will join the other children on the yard at 8.45. There is no need to book a place, just turn up on the day. There is a charge of £1.00 per child per day. The club is open to all pupils from Monday to Thursday.

SCHOOL LUNCH School lunch is available for £2.30 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 cash payments

8 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.

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

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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 – Jade Green– these can be ordered with the school badge on them Skirt/trousers – grey/navy Polo shirt – navy blue / white- these can be ordered with the school badge on them Dark shoes which do not have a high heel.

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.

MEDICAL APPOINTMENTS

There are occasional visits from the doctor, nurse and dentist to conduct various sessions which include sight and hearing tests. Parents will be informed if their child needs to be referred further. Parents are welcome to attend such visits. Such arrangements should be made in advance with the Headteacher.

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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

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.

The Headteacher Mrs Bethan G Jones is the school’s Child Protection Co-ordinator with the Assistant Headteacher Miss Llinos Roberts being the Deputy Child Protection Co- ordinator in her absence.

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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 SAFETY

The safety of pupils and staff is crucial. It is ensured that the school doors are locked at all times. Entrance is only allowed via the Main Entrance. Visitors are required to sign in and wear a visitors badge whilst in the building. The school has an extensive Health and Safety Policy to ensure the safety of each individual.

SCHOOL RULES

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

 Ysgol Glantwymyn 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).

12 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.

Our aim is to be proud of the children’s ability to embrace and use two languages effectively by the time they leave primary school. With this in mind we focus on Welsh during the Foundation Phase.

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.

THE CURRICULUM

The school succeeds in delivering a wide range of learning experiences which encapsulates the children’s interests and enthusiasm within all ages and capabilities by ensuring thorough weekly and term planning.

Aim Our aim encapsulates the drive to maintain high standards and to develop a curriculum for lifelong learning

Curriculum Objectives

1. Develop our young people as successful and independent learners  to maximise the potential of all learners;  to help learners to acquire and understand increasingly complex knowledge, concepts and attitudes;  to develop learners’ abilities to think, question, analyse, investigate and solve problems independently and with others;  to nurture a love of life-long learning;  to enable all styles of learning and learners to be successful

2. Develop our young people as confident individuals  to contribute to the individual learner’s understanding of themselves;  to help learners to understand their preferred way of learning and how they can improve;  to enable all learners to make positive, well informed decisions about all aspects of their life;  to support learners in taking risks in their learning and to make them resilient in tackling challenges

13 3. Develop our young people as responsible citizens  to prepare all learners for the world of work;  to help learners to understand, value and respect their own and others’ language, culture, heritage and traditions;  to help learners to actively understand their social, political, economic and environmental responsibilities as citizens at a local, national and global scale

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. 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

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

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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.  to be able to identify and to put on his/her own coat. The child’s name should be on all clothing

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.

THE NATIONAL CURRICULUM

The National Curriculum is presented from Year 3 onwards. The children are taught the statutory subjects namely

The Core Subjects The Foundation Subjects

Welsh History Mathematics Geography

15 Science Design and Technology English (Key Stage 2) Art Music Physical Education Religious Education I.C.T

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 / LITERACY

Each subject in the Foundation Phase class 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.

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.

16 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.

SCIENCE 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.

MATHEMATICS / NUMERACY Mathematics techniques and ideas are a key part of everyday life and contributes significantly to our understanding of the world around us. Our aim at the school is to develop a positive outlook at Mathematics, seeing it as an interesting and enjoyable subject. We encourage the children to think clearly and logically with confidence which will lead to being able to express ideas clearly, to be able to discuss the topic with certainty and applying mathematical language in everyday environment.

DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY The children are given the opportunity to use a variety of materials, and to design, build and evaluate a variety of items.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AND COMMUNICATION 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 CD Roms and various programmes in order to research and learn, and use the Internet. There is an interactive white board in every classrooms 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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GEOGRAPHY 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.

HISTORY 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.

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 Sally Marshal a peripatetic woodwind and piano teacher and Mr Duncan Bache a guitar 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 specialists to create a single piece of work.

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION

The school is not directly assocaited with any specific religion. The work on this subject is based on a syllabus agreed by the authority, a copy can be obtained if required.

18 Assemblies

According to the 1998 Educational Act, the school must hold a service of worship, and religious education must be taught in every class. If a parent wishes their child to be excluded from worship or religious training then that child will be excused until such a request is withdrawn. Such requests should be presented to the Headteacher. The Christian faith is the main focus in the Morning Assembly. The morning service is an essential element in the life of the school, not only because of its religious importance, but because it is a focal point and it nurtures a sense of belong to one community.

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.

SWIMMING Years 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 have a chance to go swimming and to visit the gymnasium at the Bro Ddyfi Leisure Centre at Machynlleth. Every child is expected to go swimmin unless there is a medical reason for not doing so. Pupils are not permitted to take money to the Leisure Centre to buy sweets/drinks.

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.

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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/ her own personal Homework book or file. The purpose of homework is to reinforce work in the classroom

LITERACY AND NUMERACY FRAMWORK The Framework became statutory in September 2013. Literacy and numeracy skills are absolutely essential in order for young people to reach their potential whether they are planning to enter further or higher education or the employment market. The National Literacy Programme and the National Numeracy Programme set out the actions the Welsh Government intends to implement to improve literacy and numeracy standards in Wales. The plans for a statutory national framework and for a system of national testing are integral to both programmes. The key aims of the LNF are to:  help teachers of all subjects to identify and provide opportunities for learners to apply literacy and numeracy across the curriculum, and is broken down by year group  describe, with precision, the annual national expectations for literacy and numeracy for learners 5–14, and progression indicators for learners with additional learning needs  help determine learner progress in literacy and numeracy and provide annual reports to parents/carers based on teacher assessment so that teachers, learners and parents/carers are all clear how learners are progressing and what are the next steps. The 2018 literacy and numeracy tests will be held between 2-9 for pupils in years 2 - 6

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. Pupils from year 2 to Year 6 are expected to undertake the national tests in May each year in Reading and numeracy and a copy of the results are included with the annual end of school report.

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

In this school 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.

The Steps

Action Response to Additional Learning Needs Concern by the school Identifying the ALN of the child on the basis of inadequate progress School Action The school notifies the parents that their child is considered to have ALN. The SENCO and the class teacher collect information about the child, together with the parents. The SENCO arranges additional provision and ensures that an Individual Education Plan (IEP) is formulated to plan intervention in the school School Action Plus The SENCO brings in specialists from outside to give advice regarding further changes that could be made within the school in order to meet the needs of the child. Statutory Assessment The LEA considers the need to carry out a statutory assessment and, if appropriate, carries out a multi- disciplinary assessment. Following the Assessment The LEA considers the need to make a SEN statement, and if appropriate, makes a statement and arranges to monitor and review the provision.

21 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 wellbeing 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.

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 through our ‘Growing Up’ talks with the school nurse in year 6. Pupils are also taught about aspects of growing up through various circle time talks following the ‘Growing up’ scheme of work (years 1 – 6).

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.

22 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 consent form in case the child requires emergency medical treatment at school.

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. / Assistant Headteacher.

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 is now part of the KiVA Programme that promotes positive behaviour and Ant Bullying.

23 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. 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.

24 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.

SCHOOL COUNCIL AND ECO TEAM The school council / 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.

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. The school cook follows the healthy menu set by Powys County Council.

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.

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SCHOOL AND THE COMMUNITY

Friends of the school Members of Cyfeillion yr Ysgol (Friends of the School) work diligently to raise money towards additional resources for the pupils. All parents are encouraged to be members of the committee.

25 Cylch Meithrin Glantwymyn There is good collaboration between the School and the Cylch Meithrin. The children come up from the Cylch for an hour once a week during the half term prior to them starting school full time

Inclement weather The decision to close the school rests with the Headteacher in consultation with the Chair of Governors. If the decision is taken to close before the beginning of the school day then the school will put the information on the Powys and school website and will tweet on our school Twitter account. We will attempt to do so before 8.15am.

When inclement weather forces the early closure of school, steps will be taken to invite parents to collect pupils. If this is impossible, we will ensure that children are in a safe place until parents arrive home.

Children wearing wellingtons to school are expected to bring shoes for wearing in the school building.

PRIMARY / HIGH SCHOOL CONTACT During the school year, the pupils of Year 6 have the opportunity to visit Ysgol Bro Hyddgen, Machynlleth on numerous transition days throughout the year. 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 Glantwymyn and Ysgol Bro Hyddgen. Courses and meetings are organised regularly within the cluster.

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 on the school website.

JUNIOR / HIGH SCHOOL LINKS During the year, Year 6 pupils visit Ysgol Bro Hyddgen, Machynlleth for a number of transition days. During such days, the pupils have an opportuunity to take part in lessons such as French, IT and Sports. There is a strong link between Ysgol Glantwymyn and Ysgol Bro Hyddgen. Meetings and courses are helf often between the cluster schools.

26 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’s 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 6 Personal and 100% 92.9% social Development Language and 100% 42.9% communication Mathematical 100% 28.6% Development

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) in Year 6 in 2018. 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 % 46.2% English 100 % 46.2% Mathematics 100 % 38.5% Science 100 % 46.2%

27 School Calendar 2018 – 2019

Autumn Term 2018 Non-Pupil Days No of School Days

Wednesday 5th September Monday 3rd September 38 to Tuesday 4th September Friday 26th October Half Term – Monday 29th October to Friday 2nd November

Monday 5th November 35 to Friday 21st December

Spring Term 2019 Non-Pupil Days No of School Days

Tuesday 8th January Monday 7th January 34 to Friday 22nd February Half Term – Monday 25th February to Friday 1st March Monday 4th March to 30

Friday 12th April

Summer Term 2019 Non-Pupil Days No of School Days

Monday 29th April 19 to Monday 29th April Friday 24th May Half Term – Monday 27th May to Friday 31st May

Monday 3rd June Monday 22nd July 35 to

Friday 19th July

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 September 2018

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