Welcome Vision At Belmont School we believe that all students should have access to a rich, Welcome to our school. We are varied and challenging curriculum, one extremely proud of the achievement of that fosters enjoyment in learning and all our pupils and staff. Our school motto develops lively enquiring minds, is to ‘Always be the best you can instilling a positive attitude towards be’ and we encourage all members of life-long learning. our school community to set high standards in whatever they do and aim to achieve these.

We have a long history of working with other schools and in July 2020 we Ethos converted to an academy and are now a member of the SAND Academies We strive to enable our pupils at all key stages to develop and utilise their talents Trust. The trust currently consists of four schools; Belmont School, Battledown and skills, providing an effective, positive and supportive learning environment Centre, Paternoster School and The Milestone School. Together we will be able where everyone can flourish and succeed. to further improve outcomes and opportunities for our pupils, offer wider support for our families and continue to develop our staff expertise. We aim to work harmoniously with parents, educational organisations and the world of At Belmont students often join us with a wide range of different needs and bring a work, to offer pupils a fully-rounded and wonderful mix of interests and personalities. When learning with us children are comprehensive understanding of the cared for, valued, challenged and supported to achieve the very best they can. society in which they live. Belmont is also When our year 11 students leave our care they are more confident and ready to dedicated to engaging positively in the life take on the challenges that face them beyond school. We take great pride in our of the local community for the benefit of all transition work to ensure that each young person continues to progress and learn and in minimising the negative impact of following their time at Belmont. the school on the environment at large.

Our website ([email protected]) will provide you with a valuable In this regard Belmont strives to reduce its insight into everyday life within the school, additional activities and special events carbon footprint and improve sustainability that highlight our work – we hope you’ll explore and enjoy. throughout the school by considering the environmental impact generated by its Kevin Day operational activities and procurement Headteacher policy.

Teaching Leadership Belmont has been recognised for the Successful leadership permeates throughout the school to great effect. The impact of it’s skilled and dedicated teachers team’s positive leadership style has ensured the school sets and achieves on pupil outcomes. consistently high standards, working effectively together.

‘Staff know the needs of pupils extremely ‘‘An inspirational headteacher’ is the view of the governors of your leadership. well and, coupled with their impressive This is replicated by staff … you have exceptionally high expectations of yourself subject knowledge, plan activities which which are shared by your extremely skilled and highly motivated staff. carefully meet their needs. This allows Ofsted Inspection Report, Oct 2018 pupils to make strong progress and thrive.’

Ofsted Inspection Report, Oct 2018 Behaviour and Safety

Belmont provides a safe, supportive and Teachers are supported by a dedicated and effective team of Learning Support inclusive environment for all its pupils. Workers who help enable pupils’ access all aspects of the curriculum.

The welfare of all pupils is a high priority for all Curriculum Provision at Belmont. All staff receive regular Child Belmont School follows the National Curriculum Protection mandatory training and are kept up and it’s own bespoke curriculum. It offers high to date with child protection procedures. quality lessons adapted to the needs of the

individual. The foundation of our curriculum is the The children learn to respect each other, share, take turns and support one three core subjects: English, Maths and Personal, another. Procedures are constantly updated to reflect new and developing Social Development. Belmont provides many technologies enabling our young people to cross-curricular opportunities and a wide range of learn to make safe choices in their use of interventions designed to meet individual needs with recognition and respect for digital resources, the internet and personal their academic, social, emotional and cultural differences. devices. The curriculum empowers them to

make safe choices about drink and drugs Transitional links are in place for students joining or leaving the school, ensuring and to develop strategies for safe and that pupils have a smooth changeover into their new learning environment. healthy relationships. Stay safe activities are

regularly included within the curriculum and Belmont has embedded commitment to working with families, children and other enrichment programme, e.g. personal safety, agencies helping to sustain the learning development and well-being of pupils fire safety, e-safety, first aid and road safety. facing challenging individual circumstances.

‘Behaviour of pupils viewed during the inspection was exemplary.’ Ofsted Inspection

Report, Oct 2018

Enrichment The school offers a wide range of enrichment activities which encourage and support pupils to be healthy, stay safe, enjoy and achieve. These include a weekly enrichment session where pupils are invited to choose one that suits them and their interests. There are also additional events throughout the year, e.g. inter- house sporting events, international days, money day, e-safety day, activity days and Key Stage trips.

Outstanding! The school was awarded Outstanding in the most recent Ofsted Inspection.

‘The leadership team has maintained the outstanding quality of education in the school. You and your staff are relentless in your resolve to ensure that you provide the very best quality of education and care for your pupils.’ Ofsted Inspection Report, Oct 2018

Local Advisory Board

There are various types of Local Advisory Board (LAB) members drawn from a number of different areas including parents, staff, Local Authority and Community.

The LAB are all volunteers who want to make a positive contribution to our children’s education. Together with Kevin Day, Headteacher, they set the future direction of the school and decide how the school’s budget should be spent.

The LAB makes collective decisions on matters such as the school’s development plan and school policies.

The official role of a member of the LAB is to:

• Ensure clarity of vision, ethos and strategic direction • Hold the Principal to account for the educational performance of the school and its pupils

Categories of LAB Members:

• Parent – elected by parents and carers of children at school • Staff – selected by election from staff employed at school • Co-opted – appointed by the Governing body

Our Acting Chair is: Lewis Grainger

The Clerk to the LAB is Sue Hunt. If you have any LAB related queries you can contact Sue by email, [email protected]

The Staff

Key Stage 4 Senior Leadership Team Monkeys – Mr Fry / Mrs Taylor Night Owls – Mrs Burford / Mrs Daniels / Mrs McCarthy Mr Day Headteacher Otters – Mr James Farrer-Grover / Mrs Cartwright Mrs Yeates Deputy Headteacher Pandas – Miss Rees / Mrs Brown Mrs Hanna Assistant Headteacher Ms Causon Business Manager SLT Responsibilities:

Pastoral Lead Mr Day Teaching Staff Looked After Children Child Protection Mrs Awcock Mrs Williams Designated Safeguarding Lead Miss Macauley Mr Fry Miss Hughes Mrs Burford Teaching and Learning Developments Mrs Yeates Mrs Hall Mr Farrer-Grover Curriculum Miss Alps Miss Rees Assessment, Recording, Reporting Miss Price Miss Chappell Accreditation, Examinations and SATs Overview Miss Price Mrs Vida Staff Development Mr Holloway Mrs Godwin Miss Cave Management of Therapies for Complex Needs Pupils Mrs Hanna School Links Key Stage Group Tutors: SENCO Parent Workshops Key Stage 1 and 2 Student Placements Alligators – Mrs Awcock / Mrs Jordan / Miss Steger Outreach/In reach Co-ordinator Busy Bees – Miss Macauley / Mrs Daniel / Miss Bee Cheetahs – Miss Hughes / Miss Solomon / Miss Clemmens Teacher & Learning Responsibilities/Middle Management Dolphins – Mrs Hall / Mrs Powell / Mrs Bent / Mr Johnson Elephants – Miss Alps / Mrs Bennett / Miss Meldrum Senior Learning Support Worker Miss Kear KS1/KS2 Leader Mrs Hall Key Stage 3 KS3 Leader Mrs Petrova Foxes - Miss Price / Mrs Griffin KS4 Leader Mr Shand Giraffes – Miss Price / Miss Bridgeman Safeguarding and Child Protection Officer (2nd) Mrs Carroll Hippos – Miss Chappell / Mrs Jones / Mrs Elliott Ibexes – Mr Holloway / Mrs Sweet Jaguars – Mrs Godwin / Mrs Howard Koalas – Miss Cave / Mr Freeman Llamas – Mrs Williams / Miss Record / Mr Williams / Mrs Smith

The Staff Learning Support Workers Subject Leaders Responsibilities Mrs Jordan Miss Steger Mrs Taylor Mrs Daniel Miss Bee Mrs Daniels English Mr Farrer-Grover / Mrs Awcock Miss Solomon Miss Clemmens Mrs McCarthy Mathematics Mrs Petrova / Mrs Hanna Mrs Bent Mr Johnson Mrs Cartwright PSHE Miss Cave Mrs Bennett Miss Meldrum Mrs Brown Active Skills Mr Shand Mrs Griffin Miss Lee Mrs Smith Our World Ms Price / Mrs Hall Mrs Jones Mrs Elliott Mr Williams The Arts Miss Rees / Miss Price Mrs Sweet Mrs Howard Miss Chambers Computing Mr Holloway Miss Record Mr Freeman Miss Bridgeman Religious Education Miss Stanley International Studies Mrs Petrova Inclusion Learning Mentors Enrichment Programme Mrs Greenwood Mr Wickham Careers & College Preparation and Mr Shand Ms Jennings Vocational Skills Mrs Jones ASDAN Mrs Godwin OPAL Mrs Vida Mental Health Co-ordinator Mrs Eccles Support Staff Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead Senior Learning Support Worker Ms Carroll Ms Kear Teachers' Support Worker Higher Level Teaching Assistants Mrs Mackenzie-Ford Ms Kear Mrs Powell Administration Mrs Marshall Ms Causon SLT Member/Business Manager Miss Stanley Mrs Davies Personal Assistant to Head teacher Miss Lee Mrs Peters-Smith School Administrator/Receptionist Miss Holliday Mrs Pincott School Administrator/Receptionist Mrs Greenwood Ms Hunt Clerk to the Governors/School Mr Langton (Interventions) Administrator/Finance Assistant

Premises Staff Mr Bridges Site Manager

Admissions Procedure Equal Opportunities and Accessibility

Pupils are admitted to the school following a request from the Local Authority. Belmont School strives to ensure that the culture and ethos of the school are Pupils are placed at Belmont School following a multi-disciplinary assessment such that, whatever the abilities and needs of members of the school community, and will have an Education and Health Care Plan. everyone is equally valued and treats one another with respect.

Once a request has been made and accepted a member of staff will contact the Belmont School aims to include all pupils, including those with disabilities, in the parents to make arrangements for them to visit, if they have not already done so. full life of the school. Our strategies to do this will include: Practical details will then be arranged between the family and the school to ensure that the pupil experiences a positive transition to Belmont School. • Pupils provided with the opportunity to experience, understand and value

diversity. The Special Educational Needs Coordinator or a member of the Leadership • Pupils have access to a rich, varied and challenging curriculum that fosters Team is happy to meet with parents of children for whom Belmont may provide a enjoyment in learning, develops lively enquiring minds and instils a positive suitable placement before any request is made. Any parent who would like the attitude to life-long learning. opportunity to receive information and visit the school should contact the school office and arrange a visit at a mutually convenient time. • Having high expectations of all pupils. • Finding ways in which all pupils can take part in the full curriculum including Entry to the school is usually at the beginning of one of the six terms. sport, music and drama. • Planning out-of-school activities including all school trips and excursions The Resources Panel at Shire Hall will discuss the pupil’s needs and allocate the so that all pupils can participate. pupil to an appropriate school. Admission to the school will depend on space • Setting admissions policy and criteria which does not discriminate against and facilities being available to meet the child’s stated needs. pupils with disabilities or treat them unfairly. • Devising teaching strategies which will reduce barriers to learning and participation for all pupils. • Planning the physical environment of the school to cater for the needs of all pupils. • Raising awareness of diversity of needs amongst school staff through a programme of training.

• By providing written information for pupils with all needs in a form which is user friendly.

The school recognises the legislation regarding racial and sexual discrimination and fully endorses equal opportunities.

The full accessibility plan is available for all parents and is reviewed annually.

Inclusive Opportunities Belmont works closely with special and mainstream schools and the wider Belmont School is ‘An outward and forward-looking organisation which is at the community. heart of the local community’, with many inclusive links within Cheltenham and the surrounding area. The following diagram illustrates some of our established Throughout the year Belmont provides work shadowing and work links. experience/college placements for pupils and students from local schools or Further and Higher Education settings.

We have successfully developed partnerships with Cheltenham Ladies’ College, Bournside School, Bettridge School and Dean Close involving students working together on planned programmes of work experience and community work placements. Business and Industry

Primary and Local Secondary Local businesses offer placement opportunities for our KS4 students as part FE Colleges Schools – of work experience programmes. In addition they also offer support for team Mainstream and Special Schools building/enterprise education activities organised by the Education Business Partnership.

Further links exist with the Churches, Rotary Club and other charitable organisations. Balcarras Support School Belmont Teaching School Work Belmont seeks to develop as a Centre of Excellence within the local School Partnership community by extending inclusive opportunities. Belmont offers vocational courses which are also accessed by pupils in KS4 from local mainstream schools, where possible.

Belmont aims to develop as a specialist centre for mainstream teachers and Independent School – Learning Support Workers, as well as being a specialist resource centre. HE - University of Cheltenham Our current provision enhances the inclusive opportunities of all pupils and Gloucestershire Ladies College acts as a venue for our programme of parent workshops. Local Primary Schools

The curriculum is enhanced by a wide range of opportunities for pupils who Teaching Organisation follow a planned programme of enrichment activities. The school is organised into Key Stage Departments. Within the Primary Department (KS1 and KS2) we currently have 5 classes. In the secondary Careers Education and Guidance department, pupils are taught mainly within their year group and ability range but some classes are tailor made to suit the needs of pupils rather than age. Careers Education and Guidance is an important part of the preparation of pupils Pupils remain all day with tutors and cover the curriculum in a more creative for the responsibilities, opportunities and experience of adult life. In the final and thematic style. In Key Stage 4 pupils may be taught by subject specialists years at school pupils are prepared to be able to make the choices, changes and to ensure they cover the necessary materials to gain their accreditations. transitions affecting their future education, training and life as adult members of society. Pupils are entitled to a planned programme of careers education and Teaching arrangements for the primary pupils is class teacher based. All core guidance and are encouraged to achieve, where possible, the following broad and foundation subjects of the National Curriculum are taught following aims: Schemes of Work. The method and approach of teaching is modified to meet the needs of individuals with an overall emphasis on developing basic skills. • Understand themselves and develop their capabilities Pupils engage in literacy and numeracy sessions, adapted to meet their needs. • Investigate careers and opportunities Pupils also take part in phonic groups to improve reading and spelling. They • Implement their transition and careers plans may take part in additional activities off-site, including Forest Schools, horse riding with RDA, swimming and soft play. The school maintains good links with business and industry, and offers World of Work visits, Team Building Days with local employers, and a work experience Lessons in Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 are mostly taught by subject programme to pupils in Year 11. Pupils may gain accreditation for these specialists in subject specific facilities/rooms. As well as teaching staff there experiences and these may be included in their Record of Achievement Files. are non-teaching assistants (Learning Support Workers) who work as a key part The school has close links with the Youth Support Service. of the team throughout the school. A whole school careers week is held where work experience providers, Belmont has a range of modern and well-equipped facilities for specialist tradespeople and representatives from local businesses engage with pupils and subjects such as Our World (Science/Geography/History), The Arts (Music, inform them about the world of work. Post 16 providers may also attend. Drama and Art), ICT (Information and Communication Technology) and Vocational Skills (Design and Technology and Food Technology). For Active Skills there are separate changing facilities for boys and girls. The school is equipped with both PCs and Apple Mac technology. Classrooms are equipped with Interactive Whiteboards or projection facilities.

The school offers a wide range of accredited courses. There is strong emphasis on helping students prepare for adult life and in Key Stage 4 students discontinue some National Curriculum subjects, allowing extra time for pursuing vocational courses. (For further information see page 12, Statutory Information, KS4 Accreditation). Links between home and school Reviews and meetings

At Belmont School we recognise the importance of a positive and supportive Parents/Carers of pupils are invited to the school to discuss their child’s progress link between home and school. Every effort is made by the school to keep and achievements as part of the Education, Health Care Plan meeting and Parent in close contact with families. This is primarily the responsibility of the Conversations. class/form tutor who should be the first point of contact for any parent. Education, Health Care Plan meetings are organised by the Local Authority and Parents are asked to sign a home/school agreement when their child starts are held at the school. (Please note these meetings are replacing the existing school and at the start of each school year thereafter. Annual Review of the Statement of SEN). Relevant educational, health and care professionals and parents/carers are invited to discuss the progress and needs of Day-to-Day Contact the child on an annual basis to ensure their needs are being met at Belmont School. A Parents’ Newsletter is available on the school website regularly. Between newsletters, general information will be sent to parents. The school utilises Class Parents are also invited to attend Parental Conversations twice a year to discuss Dojo for home school communications. This allows us to easily communicate their child’s achievement and aspirations for the future. school wide messages and updates, share photos, videos and updates on what’s happening in our school community. On occasions we also use Primary Contact - We appreciate the efforts made by parents to attend planned reviews and a system to contact parents by text, email or telephone (according to parents consultations and the ongoing support they provide for their child’s education. stated preference) with alerts regarding attendance, school closure and other Where parents find it difficult to attend meetings, staff will endeavour to consult information updates. Letters will be sent home where required. with them to ensure their views are heard and considered.

In cases of urgency or emergency, the Head teacher will always try to see or We are happy to supply general information to both parents if they are living apart. speak to a parent. Requests for this service should be sent to the Headteacher. Where there is a particular issue, it is helpful if parents could make the school aware of the legal If you wish to visit someone at school it is advisable to make an appointment status in regard to pupils of any parent not living in the family. The Senior first, in order to be sure the person you want to see is free. Please report to Leadership of the school treats this information in confidence. reception every time you visit school, so that you help to maintain security.

Office staff are available if you contact us by telephone; the school has an answerphone which will be left on when the school office is left unmanned for any length of time.

We will respond to a letter as quickly as possible.

Procedures for Safeguarding Children Looked After Children

All schools have a responsibility to work with other agencies following A designated member of staff has responsibility for co-ordination of activity statutory Safeguarding Procedures. As part of this process, we routinely related to looked after children and staff regularly attend multi agency note any minor injuries or other concerns about a child. This is not meant to reviews and staff meetings. All looked after children have an agreed imply a particular judgement, it is done in a spirit of wishing to provide Personal Education Plan which is monitored and reviewed as appropriate. support to families. The Headteacher is happy to receive direct approaches from any family where we may be able to be of help. In the event of more serious concerns, the welfare of the child will always be the guiding principal in any action taken.

Weapons and weapon-like toys are strictly prohibited. Belmont School has a zero-tolerance policy in regard to weapons, firearms, mace, knives of any sort, or weapon-like toys or instruments. Weapons include any object that could reasonably be used to inflict serious bodily injury. In fact, pupils are more likely to be excluded for the use of objects that are not usually thought of as weapons, such as scissors, sharp pencils, rocks, or sticks. Any student using such an object to threaten, harm or found to be carrying any weapon, faces an internal enquiry into the incident and the likelihood of a fixed term or permanent exclusion.

For further information regarding Safeguarding Procedures and practice with the school, parents may request a copy of our ‘Safeguarding Children’ Policy.

First Aid, Illness and Emergency Contacts Parents/Carers will be informed by letter of routine medicals, vaccination First Aid treatment of children is carried out by an appointed person, in dental inspections etc. that will be carried out by a school nurse and doctor. accordance with the Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981. The school has five trained First Aiders. Should your child require First Aid in school then a note will be sent home informing you of the treatment given. It is essential that the school has an emergency contact number in case it is necessary to contact parents in the event of an accident or serious illness.

The legal responsibility for administering medicines or tablets rests with parents. If the school agrees to administer medication then the parents/carers must sign a form of indemnity obtainable from the school office. In addition, any changes to prescribed medication should be notified.

It should be noted that Belmont School has a medical room for consultations with the School Nurse or Medical Officer but has no resident nurse, no sick bay, and no facilities for anything other than first aid treatment.

Parents/Carers are asked therefore, not to send their children to school if they are obviously unwell e.g. with sickness or diarrhoea.

Sick children are not capable of satisfactory learning and often have a bad effect on others in the class. Your co-operation in this matter would be appreciated.

We appreciate that it is sometimes difficult to make a judgement first thing in the morning but would ask parents to be in reach of a telephone if they send their child to school but are unsure about their fitness to attend. On admission, parents are asked to provide at least two contact numbers in case we need to reach them during the day. It is helpful if any changes to these are notified promptly. If a child should have an accident during the school day, we notify parents as soon as possible and advise of the child’s condition. Where a hospital check is felt necessary, parents are asked either to come and take their child or to meet school staff at the hospital, depending upon the nature of any injury.

School Hours and Meals

The school operates Monday to Friday with the following lesson times: A midday meal, prepared on the premises, is available every day. Pupils

may, if they wish, bring a packed lunch instead. Some parents may qualify 8.40 – 8.50 Registration for Free School Meals and should apply to Shire Hall, Westgate Street, Gloucester. The school receives additional funding (Pupil Premium) to 9:00 – 9:20 Daily Mile support their learning where pupils are eligible for Free School Meals. Further information is available from the school office. 9.20 – 10.10 Lesson 1 If a child requires a special diet for medical or religious reasons this can 10.10 Break usually be arranged. The school requires sufficient notice to organise an

alternative and must be provided with documentary evidence for the 10.25 – 11.15 Lesson 2 catering company. 11.15 – 12.05 Lesson 3 The school operates the ‘Parent Pay’ system to allow parents to pay for 12.05 Lunch their child’s school lunches. Further information may be obtained from the School Office. 12.55 – 13.10 Registration The school runs a Breakfast Club from 8.00am to 8.40am each day. For 13.10 – 13.55 Lesson 4 further details please contact the School Office.

13.55 – 14.40 Lesson 5 A number of staff are assigned to supervise pupils during break times. School Staff and a Senior Supervisor carry out lunchtime supervision. In 14.40 – 14.55 Assembly/Tutor addition, some staff have lunch in the dining room, sitting with the children,

whilst others encourage children in post-lunch activities and clubs.

On a Monday morning there will be a whole school assembly led by a member of the Leadership Team. In addition there will be a minimum of two other assemblies led by other leaders, members of staff or by individual classes.

For health reasons we would prefer to see children bringing fruit and vegetables for their morning snacks. Fizzy drinks are not regarded as a healthy option and should not be brought to school. Glass bottles are dangerous and will not be allowed in school. During the morning break drinks and healthy snacks can be purchased from the tuck shop. Further information can be found in the school’s Healthy Lunchbox Policy. Attendance Insurance, Money and Valuables

Parents are responsible by law for ensuring that their child/children attend Although the Local Authority insures against liability in respect of claims which may and stay at school. Parents should inform the school as soon as possible of arise from its alleged negligence or that of its employees, neither the LA nor the the reason for any absence. school provides insurance cover for pupils for anything else, including those who

suffer personal injury as a result of an accident. The Attendance Officer has a duty to check school registers and will follow up irregular or persistent absence for which there has been no satisfactory The school does not insure pupils against personal injury accidentally sustained explanation. during the course of an educational visit or extra-curricular activity, unless an official letter from school informs you to the contrary. If this is the case, it will be Registers will be marked in school giving the reason for absence e.g. illness stated on the letter received before the trip takes place. or medical appointments. If Parents/Carers wish to do so, they may take out private personal accident Where you know in advance that your child will be absent from school (e.g. insurance in respect of their children. doctors or dental appointment) it would be helpful to let us know before the date in question. Apart from money required for school activities, we ask that children do not bring money to school, as it can be easily lost or misplaced. Similarly, we do not advise Government regulations, implemented from 1st September 2013, state that the bringing of valuables into school. We cannot accept any responsibility for Headteachers may not grant any leave of absence during term time (e.g. mobile phones or other electronic equipment and strongly urge pupils not to bring family holidays) unless there are ‘exceptional circumstances’. items of value into school. Where no notification has been received, or the reason is unjustified then The Local Authority does not accept responsibility for pupils’ personal property, nor the absence will be recorded as unauthorised. Unauthorised absences are for insuring it. published nationwide and include truanting. It is important to note that the regulations state that absences can be authorised only by the school, not by the parents.

For all other information please see our Attendance Policy.

Transport Vehicle drivers are asked to park in designated areas – inappropriate parking can Parents are very welcome to bring their children to school themselves if this is create hazards for pupils and drivers. Pupils use the pavement to arrive at a safe practically possible. However, most pupils travel to and from school in the taxis collection point where they are met and taken to the vehicle by their taxi driver or and minibuses provided by the Local Authority. Transport arrangements are parent/carer. Staff are designated to be on duty on the car park at the beginning supervised centrally by staff at Shire Hall, who are responsible for placing the and end of the school day – recognised by their high visibility clothing. They will contracts with transport companies. report actions by pupils or drivers which give cause for concern. Parents are asked to ensure that their child is ready for collection at the appropriate Parents are asked to make it clear to the children the safety reasons why it is time in the morning and that there is someone at home to meet them on their return essential for them to be well behaved on transport. from school. It is not usually possible for the vehicles to collect or deliver children to addresses other than those that are the norm. Parents are asked to notify Older pupils of appropriate age and who have a roadworthy bicycle may be allowed transport staff directly if their child will not be attending on any particular day or if to ride to school or may travel on public transport. they have made an alternative arrangement. It is also helpful if the school is notified. Children will not normally be handed over to anyone other than their parent/carer or the usual transport staff without prior notice. Parents should be confident to ask for identification from transport staff and, if in doubt, should ask them to wait while they telephone the company concerned to verify an individual’s identity.

Expectations of Pupils

• Be Ready

• Be Safe

• Be Respectful

Enrichment and Extended School Opportunities Extended School Activities Educational Visits All pupils can access Breakfast Club and opportunities to take part in a range In line with guidelines from the Department for Education parents are asked to of extended school activities. Pupils are offered the opportunity to attend after complete a single consent form for school trips and other off-site activities. This school clubs. These activities are offered at a small charge and can include form is valid for pupils throughout their time at the school, however, school Sports and Art. reissues to update on individual new circumstances. Details about each trip or activity are sent out before it takes place to inform parents/carers and allow A lunchtime activities club operates regularly throughout the week in the them time to raise any concerns about their child prior to the event. secondary school.

Educational day and residential experiences involve use of the school Opportunities to take part in additional clubs and activities within the community minibuses. Vehicles are fitted with full lap and diagonal seatbelts for maximum are signposted in our school newsletter. safety. Our drivers have all passed the necessary test to drive vehicles of this size and hold the relevant Certificate of Proficiency issued by Gloucestershire Pupils that are identified as excelling in identified areas are offered support to County Council. Minibuses are regularly serviced in accordance with the pursue their interests and talents. requirements of Gloucestershire County Council.

Voluntary contributions are requested from parents to cover costs of visits. Where parents cannot afford to contribute this factor will not prevent their child from going on the visit in school time. It follows, however, that where there are insufficient contributions, it may not be possible for the visit to go ahead.

Trips that take place outside school hours will be charged for to cover the costs involved.

Where parents experience financial difficulty over payment for trips they should contact the Headteacher in confidence, as it may be possible to gain support from other sources of funding.

Dates of School Holidays

School holiday dates are the same as for other maintained schools within the LA. The school is closed for 5 days each year for in-service training and parents are notified of these dates as soon as they are available.

Term Dates 2020/2021

Term 1 Term 4

rd rd Term Begins Tuesday 23 February Term Begins Thursday 3 September st Term Ends Friday 23rd October Term Ends Thursday 1 April

Term 2 Term 5

th Term Begins Monday 2nd November Term Begins Monday 19 April Term Ends Thursday 17th December INSET Day Friday 30th April rd Term 3 Bank Holiday Monday 3 May

th Term Begins Tuesday 5th January Term Ends Friday 28 May Term Ends Friday 12th February

Term 6

Term Begins Monday 7th June Term Ends Wednesday 21st July

School Uniform

Primary/Junior – Up to Year 6

UNIFORM Purple Belmont School sweatshirt White polo shirt Dark trousers or skirt (grey or black) NOT denim jeans

PE/GAMES KIT White games polo shirt Purple Belmont School hooded sweatshirt (optional) Black Belmont School shorts Trainers

ALL PUPILS Outer garment – Anorak or similar, for wet or cold weather Footwear – Sensible shoes (black, if possible) NO Trainers A water bottle (these can be purchased from school) Children who go horse-riding / take part in Forest School activities need to bring wellington boots. For swimming lesson children require a one-piece swimming costume and a towel. A towel may be necessary for a shower after PE / Games lessons.

Make-up or inappropriate colours or hairstyles (e.g. tramlines or Mohican cuts) are not permitted in school. Jewellery is limited to a wristwatch and a pair of small sleeper studs (1 in each ear). Facial piercings are not permitted.

Exceptions to rules for cultural reasons should be discussed with the Headteacher.

N.B. All clothing to be clearly named

School Uniform

UNIFORM Black v-neck jumper White Polo shirt The school uniform is intended to be smart and suitable for school activities. All Dark trousers (grey or black) NOT denim jeans branded items can be ordered by the school office, including Belmont School hoodies, sweatshirts, PE shorts and PE skirts. Other items should be easily PE/GAMES KIT obtainable from the various children’s clothing shops and stores and not too White PE polo shirt expensive for Parents/Carers to buy. Black Belmont School hooded sweatshirt (optional) Black Belmont School shorts or Belmont School black PE skirt and black PE briefs Trainers

ALL PUPILS Outer garment – Anorak or similar, for wet or cold weather Footwear – Sensible shoes (black, if possible) NO Trainers Children who go horse-riding/take part in Forest School activities need to bring Wellington boots For swimming lesson children require a one-piece swimming costume and a towel. A towel may be necessary for a shower after PE/Games lessons.

Make-up or inappropriate colours or hairstyles (e.g. tramlines or Mohican cuts) are not permitted in school. Jewellery is limited to a wristwatch and a pair of small sleeper studs (1 in each ear). Facial piercings are not permitted.

Exceptions to the rule for cultural reasons should be discussed with the Headteacher.

N.B. All clothing to be clearly named

Statutory Policies

Religious Education Sex and Relationships Education The principle aim of Religious Education is to enable pupils to understand the The school’s Sex and Relationships Education Policy is in line with current nature of religious beliefs and practices, and the importance of these to people’s National guidance. It encompasses developing sexuality, both physical and lives. emotional and relationships within a framework of a positive self-image.

The Religious Education curriculum is planned using the Gloucestershire Agreed An integral part of the Personal, Social and Health Education programme is the Syllabus and is a part of the curriculum for each age group. As part of this emphasis placed on establishing responsible attitudes. It is set within a framework, programme, pupils study the main beliefs and festivals of the major world religions, which encourages pupils to have due regard to moral considerations and the value examine artefacts and visit places of religious worship. of family life.

The Governors have produced a Sex Education Policy outlining the content and Collective Worship organisation of that part of the curriculum, noting that Sex Education, under the In keeping with the requirements of the law, provision is made for acts of worship, relevant Education Act, is compulsory for all pupils receiving secondary education. which are wholly or mainly Christian in character but not distinctively of any denomination. The National Curriculum in Science which is incorporated into Our World covers

the biological aspects. “Provision shall be made to secure that, so far as practicable, every pupil attending a special school will attend religious worship and receive religious education, or Discussion of relationships, sex, sexuality and related issues may arise in other will be withdrawn from attendance at such worship or from receiving such national curriculum subjects (eg English, Our World) as well as in Personal and education, in accordance with the wishes of parents.” Social Education lessons. Education Act 1981

The RE programme provides opportunities for developing an understanding of Parents who do not wish their child to attend religious worship or religious relationships and lifestyles and exploring moral issues. education should inform the Headteacher of this in writing. Separate arrangements will be made for their supervision at these times. Parents have the right to withdraw their children from any areas of Sex Education,

which do not form part of the National Curriculum. Those parents who wish to To enable maximum participation of pupils, a different class will prepare and deliver withdraw their child from Sex Education should notify the Headteacher by letter. an assembly each week. Other assemblies will be taken by senior staff where agreed themes of a spiritual and moral nature are introduced and religious festivals celebrated in a way which is appropriate to the age and ability of the pupils. Once a week an opportunity will be provided to celebrate individual pupil achievements. Local clergy are invited into the school to assist with whole school celebrations, such as Easter, Harvest and a service is held at a local church each Christmas to which parents are invited.

Statutory Policies Special Educational Needs Active Skills

Pupils at Belmont School will have an Education Health Care Plan (EHCP). EHCPs Physical activity plays an important role in the education of pupils at Belmont were introduced from September 2014 for all children identified as having SEN. School. They are taught in accordance with National Curriculum requirements. The existing Statements are being reviewed and replaced by an EHCP. These are

reviewed by a range of interested parties, including the LA, the school, the Physical activity has wide-ranging benefits including:- parents/carers, the pupil and any relevant agencies eg social care and medical

representatives. The transition should be completed in 2018 – details of which • the development of physical competence pupils and when will be communicated by the school. The EHCP is a • the promotion of physical development comprehensive plan looking at all of the child’s needs and provides a clear list of • helping to establish self esteem outcomes/objectives for the child to work towards. • the development of problem solving skills • encouragement for a healthy lifestyle Copies of all statutory policies are available on our website, or on request at a small • the development of interpersonal skills charge.

All pupils participate in Active Skills to the best of their ability. Examples of activities include: table tennis, tag rugby, badminton, tennis, gymnastics, dance, team games, athletics, swimming and horse riding. Older pupils engage in outdoor and adventurous activities that are community based. Pupils are able to participate in Special Schools' events and competitions.

School facilities for sport include a large and small hall, each with gymnastic apparatus, extensive playing fields and two hard court areas.

The Active Skills co-ordinator develops sporting links within the community and provides pupils’ access to shared sporting activities with mainstream and special schools and the use of a wider range of specialist facilities as well as access to specialist coaches.

Statutory Polices

Statutory Information Key Stage 3 & 4 Accreditation

Assessment Pupils in Key Stage 4 will follow accredited courses, depending on their ability and The school policy for Assessment, Recording and Reporting is available in school. motivation. Staff believe that accurate assessment and evaluation of pupils’ work informs future planning. Teachers’ Moderation Meetings take place regularly to ensure a Some pupils will follow the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) in consistent approach to the assessment of pupils' work. Mathematics and English.

Entry Level Certificate/Awards (AQA/WJEC) in: Annual Reviews • English Pupil progress is carefully monitored and reported in the pupil’s annual review. This • Maths document includes the pupil’s progress in each subject and provides a detailed • Computing overview of the pupil’s learning. In Years 9, 10 and 11 pupils receive a Transition

Review and the Youth Support Service is involved helping pupils and their parents Asdan Certificates in: prepare for transition at 16 years. • Personal, Social and Health Education (short course) • Living Independently (short course) SATS • Personal Development Programme (Bronze, Silver and Gold) As in all schools, pupils at Belmont School are involved in Standard Assessment Tasks and Tests (SATS) at the end of KS1, KS2 and a Phonics Screen Check in Year 1 where possible. The results of pupil achievement in tests or tasks are reported to their parents at the end of the summer term.

School Results

2020 Due to COVID-19 Phonics Screening did not go ahead.

2019 School Results – Phonics

All pupils at Belmont School have special learning difficulties and we are very proud of their achievement.

The table below shows the percentage of pupils in Year 1 (3 pupils) and Year 2 (7 pupils) achieving at each level and compares with national results 2018.

Results of Phonics Check – Year 1 Pupils Assessment 2019 Wa Wt National 82% 18% ALL PUPILS School 33% 67% National 79% 21% BOYS School 33% 0% National 86% 14% GIRLS School 0% 67%

Results of Phonic Check – Year 2 Pupils Assessment 2019 Wa Wt National 92% 8% ALL PUPILS Wa – took the phonics screening check and met the required standard Year 2 0% 71% BOYS Year 2 0% 71% Wt – took the phonics screening check and did not meet the required standard GIRLS Year 2 0% 0%

School Results

2020 Due to COVID-19 Key Stage 1 SATs did not go ahead.

2019 School Results – Key Stage 1

All pupils at Belmont School have special learning difficulties and we are very proud of their achievement.

The table below shows the percentage of pupils at the end of Key Stage 1 achieving each level (The number of pupils at the end of Key Stage 1 = 8).

GDS EXS WTS PKS BLW HNM READING 0% 12.5% 12.5% 63% 12.5% 0% WRITING 0% 0% 12.5% 75% 12.5% 0% MATHS 0% 0% 0% 75% 25% 0% SCIENCE 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 100%

Outcomes • GDS is awarded if the pupil is working at greater depth at the expected standard. • EXS is awarded if the pupil is working at the expected standard. • WTS is awarded if the pupil is working towards the expected standard. • HNM is awarded if the pupil has not met the standard (science only). • PKS is awarded if the pupil is working at a pre-key stage standard. • BLW is awarded if the pupil is working below the standard of the pre-key stage standards.

School Results

2020 Due to COVID-19 Key Stage 2 SATs did not go ahead.

2019 School Results – Key Stage 2

All pupils at Belmont School have special learning difficulties and we are very proud of their achievement.

The table below shows the percentage of pupils at the end of Key Stage 1 achieving each level (The number of pupils at the end of Key Stage 1 = 8).

GDS EXS WTS HNM PKS BLW READING 0% 12.5% 12.5% 0% 75% 0% WRITING 0% 25% 0% 0% 75% 0% MATHS 0% 12.5% 12.5% 0% 75% 0% SCIENCE 0% 25% 0% 75% 0% 0%

Outcomes • GDS is awarded if the pupil is working at greater depth at the expected standard. • EXS is awarded if the pupil is working at the expected standard. • WTS is awarded if the pupil is working towards the expected standard. • HNM is awarded if the pupil has not met the standard (science only). • PKS is awarded if the pupil is working at a pre-key stage standard. • BLW is awarded if the pupil is working below the standard of the pre-key stage standards.

School Results ENTRY LEVEL PATHWAYS (WJEC) – Percentage at each level

2020 School Results – Key Stage 4 EL1 EL2 EL3 Award Award Award GCSE results – Percentage at each level INFORMATION, COMMUNICATION 30% 50% 20% 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 TECHNOLOGY MATHS 10 pupils entered 60% 20% 20% 5 pupils entered VOCATIONAL/PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT SKILLS - ASDAN ENTRY LEVEL CERTIFICATE (AQA) – Percentage at each level BRONZE AWARD EL1 EL2 EL3 Certificate Certificate Certificate PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT STEP UP TO 100% ENGLISH 24% 41% 35% PROGRAMME 17 pupils entered 17 pupils entered MATHS 1 CREDIT 2 CREDITS 6% 47% 47% 17 pupils entered PSHE SHORT COURSE SCIENCE SINGLE 29% 71% 0% 20% 80% 17 pupils entered 10 pupils entered LIVING INDEPENDENTLY 41% 59% 17 pupils entered

Statistical Information 2019-20

Attendance 2019-20 Exclusions 2019-20

Due to COVID-19 attendance data is calculated from 4th September to 20th March Temporary Exclusions: 3 exclusions; 2 pupils; 3 days excluded

Permanent Exclusions: 0 Overall Percentage Attendance – 92.8%

Rates of Authorised & Unauthorised Absence

Unauthorised Absence 6% Authorised Absence 0.8%

Destination of Year 11 Leavers, June 2020

11 pupils to Gloucestershire College 1 pupil to South Gloucestershire and Stroud College 1 pupil to Ruskin Mill College 1 pupil Apperley Centre 1 pupil to National Star College 1 pupil to Abingdon and Witney College 1 pupil to Fairfield Farm College