Bishop of Wakefield Bishop Stephen

School Prospectus

2013-2014 MISSION STATEMENT

The Governors and Staff of Batley Parish School affirm its foundation to be rooted in a strong Christian environment, providing an ideal context for growth and for delivering a rich, broad, balanced curriculum entitlement both individually and collectively, which reaches into community life.

BISHOP OF WAKEFIELD – BISHOP STEPHEN

From earliest times the Christian faith has held learning and teaching at its heart - the monasteries of Yorkshire were centres of education. The Church of England helped pioneer education for all and the Diocese of Wakefield now has 100 church schools within its boundaries. For all these reasons we welcome you and your child to this school.

We hope you will find it a happy community where young people are nourished in every way. The school offers all that our educational system requires, but it aims to do this in a distinctive way - within the context of the Christian faith, where teaching and learning are rooted in faith in God as seen in Christ Jesus, and handed on by the Church over the centuries. Alongside this must stand the respect for children of other faiths.

Church schools work to foster those attitudes in children which prepare them to become good, reliable and honest members of the wider community. But good citizenship is also dependent upon and nurtured by the guidance and example received through family life. We invite you, then, to work with the school staff in helping your child to develop into a mature and responsible member of the community. This will mean guiding your child to grow spiritually, socially and intellectually, thereby encouraging self respect, respect for others and faith in God.

We welcome you most warmly and I commend you to God’s blessing. Letter from the Headteacher

Welcome to Batley Parish CE VA J, I and N School

We are proud of the fact that for 130 years the school has been at the heart of the community of Batley.

We believe strongly in a partnership between the home and the school, which will unlock each child’s full potential. We hope that you will find the information contained in this booklet both helpful and informative. You will find within these pages details of a practical nature, but also an indication of the type of school we are. We value the contribution of all aspects of the curriculum in developing a child’s understanding of the world around them, whilst obviously ensuring that the basic skills necessary in life are well grounded.

At the heart of the ‘ethos’ at Batley Parish School lies the Christian faith and from that the importance attached to nurturing and developing, in our youngsters, the skills and objectives, that will enable them to develop into tolerant, caring adults with an inner spiritual contentment to guide them through and along the various stages of life.

The ever changing situation within the educational world means that we as teachers and you as parents need to provide the stability of a positive working environment in order to give the very best opportunities for the children. It is through partnership with yourself that I am confident this aim can be achieved.

We like to hear good news as well, so do please let us know that too! We look forward to receiving your child into school.

Ian Richardson Headteacher SCHOOL HOLIDAY LIST 2013/2014

Closes Opens Autumn Term Monday 2 September Oct. 1/2 Term Friday 25 October Monday 4 November Christmas Friday 20 December Monday 6 January February 1/2 Term Friday 21 February Monday 3 March Easter Friday 11 April Monday 28 April May 1/2 Term Friday 23 May Monday 2 June Summer Term Monday 21 July

* The Five Teacher Training/Pupil Occasional Holiday days have been included in the above Holiday dates.

SCHOOL HOLIDAY LIST 2014/2015

Closes Opens Autumn Term Monday 1 September Oct. 1/2 Term Thursday 23 October Monday 3 November Christmas Thursday 18 December Monday 5 January February 1/2 Term Friday 13 February Tuesday 24 February Easter Thursday 2 April Monday 20 April May 1/2 Term Friday 22 May Monday 1 June Summer Term Friday 17 July

* The Five Teacher Training/Pupil Occasional Holiday days have been included in the above Holiday dates.

BATLEY PARISH SCHOOL STAFF SEPT 2013 – JULY 2014 TEACHING STAFF LIST Headteacher Mr I Richardson Head of Nursery Miss C James Reception Teacher Miss R Adams Class Teacher Mrs D Jennings Class Teacher Miss S Massey Class Teacher Mrs F Mayet Class Teacher Mrs R Gillow Class Teacher Miss C Davies Class Teacher Mr A James SENCO/Class Teacher Miss J Gruen Class Teacher Miss K Delaney Part time Nursery Teacher Mrs L Gregson One to One Teacher Mr I Steward One to One Teacher Miss J Parr One to One Teacher Mr S Emsley Trainee Teacher Miss A Inns Trainee Teacher Mr S Coulston

NON-TEACHING STAFF LIST Mrs Jenny Ashton Educational Teaching Assistant Mrs Tracy Bairstow Educational Teaching Assistant Mrs Julie Morton Nursery Nurse Miss Irfarnah Daji Educational Teaching Assistant Miss Amina Daji Educational Teaching Assistant Mrs Diane Crann Educational Teaching Assistant Miss Andrea Jackson Educational Teaching Assistant Miss Manisha Khan SEN Educational Teaching Assistant Mrs Amina Lunat SEN Educational Teaching Assistant Mrs Su Hall SEN Educational Teaching Assistant Mrs Hawa Saloo SEN Educational Teaching Assistant Mrs Joanne Hardcastle Educational Teaching Assistant Miss G Underhill Educational Teaching Assistant Mrs Carol Rout Educational Teaching Assistant Mrs Sue Godden Educational Teaching Assistant Mrs Denise Brown Educational Teaching Assistant Mrs Barbara Tomlinson Family Liaison/Attendance Office Mrs Janet Davies Admin Mrs Julie Lockwood Business Support Manager Mr Mick Murphy Caretaker Mrs Karen Shires Cleaner Mrs Sharon Grace Cleaner Mrs Fareda Laher Cook in Charge Mrs Ann Bottomley Assistant Cook Mrs Angela Hardcastle Lunchtime Supervisor Mrs Nadine Gate Lunchtime Supervisor Mrs Amina Seedat Lunchtime Supervisor Mrs Aysha Mayat Lunchtime Supervisor Miss Bushra Mahroof Lunchtime Supervisor

Other Staff visiting the school on a regular basis

School Nurse – Telephone at Batley Health Centre

Education Welfare Office

Can be contacted at Batley Town Hall Annexe

Musical Peripatetic Support Teahcers

Brass Mr A Kingham Piano & Keyboard Mrs E Bradnum Guitar Mrs J Robinson Percussion Mr T Merry Ukulele Mr W Mace

School Governors 2012/13

Mr D Ashton Ex Officio Mr R G Martin Wakefield Diocesan Ed. Council Mrs P Scales Batley Parish Church Council Mr I Steward Batley Parish Church Council Mr R Hosley Batley Parish Church Council Mrs A Barnwell Batley Parish Church Council Mrs K Skyrme Batley Parish Church Council Vacancy Batley Parish Church Council Mr N Spotswood Elected Parent Governor Mrs S Mirza Elected Parent Governor Mrs S Senior LEA Representative Mrs R Gillow Teacher Representative Mrs B Tomlinson Staff Representative Mrs F Mayet Guest Teacher Representative Mr I Richardson Head Teacher (Ex Officio)

The Chairman is Mr R G Martin The Clerk to the Governors is Mrs J Lockwood

The Governors of the school are all local people who are interested in being involved in the life of the school. They care about our school and your child. Our Governors are made up of representatives from the local community, political parties, the church, parents and teachers. Governors receive no financial reward for the work they do and work in collaboration with the Head Teacher and staff to achieve the aims and the curricular policy of the school.

What you need to know about the School and its Admissions Policy

The Nursery Although our nursery unit is on the same site as the main school building, and is administered by the main school, admissions to the Nursery unit are not controlled by the Governors, but by the Local authority.

Part time nursery education is available in the unit from the term after children are 3.

The morning session 9am – 12 noon (30 places) The afternoon session is 1 pm – 4 pm (30 places)

Applications for admission to the Nursery must be made directly to the main school office. Sight of the child’s birth certificate will be required when an application is made.

You are welcome to visit the Nursery Unit and applications should be made before the child’s 3rd birthday.

“All children settle well into their new surroundings and make rapid progress in their personal development during the Foundation Stage. The well-led staff team nurtures their confidence and self-esteem and children learn quickly how to get on with each other.” (OFSTED Nov 2007)

Important Notice

Parents enrolling their child at the Nursery unit are advised that this does not guarantee or give an automatic right to a place at the main school. All applications for places at Batley Parish C.E. (VA) J, I and N School are dealt with in accordance with the school’s published admissions policy.

A DMISSION TO S CHOOL Children born between 1 September and 31 August are eligible to start school at the beginning of the school year in which they attain their fifth birthday. For example, a child born 7 October 2008 would attend from September 2013, as would a child born in July 2009. At the end of the school year in which they attain their eleventh birthday, the children transfer to secondary education. The system is explained in more detail later in this booklet. Information regarding future pupils can be passed on by telephone or letter. The following information is helpful initially - the child’s full name, date of birth, address and telephone number, parents’ christian names, and surname if different from the child’s. ADMISSIONS POLICY The Governing Body of Batley Parish CE (VA) Primary School is the admissions authority for the school, not the Local Authority. Making an application for admission to the school should be made on the common application form enclosed with the Local Authority’s brochure and available from the school. You must also complete a school information form (SIF). If you wish to apply under Christian Commitment Criteria you must complete the section on the School’s Information Form (SIF). You must return both forms to the School by the date marked on the form.

Admission procedures The Planned Admission Limit for admission to the Reception class in the school year commencing September 2011 will be a maximum of 30. This arrangement follows consultation between the Governing Body, the Diocesan Board of Education, Local Authorities and other admissions authorities in the area. The Governing Body will not place any restrictions on admissions to Reception class unless the number of children for whom admission is sought exceeds this number. By law, no infant class may contain more than thirty children.

The Local Authority operates a co-ordinated admissions scheme and administers a system of equal preferences under which all applications are considered equally and The School’s Governing Body allocates the available places in accordance with its published Admissions policy. In the event that there are more applications than places available, the Governing Body will allocate places using the following criteria, which are listed in order of priority. The Local Authority will inform parents of the offer of a place.

ADMISSIONS POLICY FOR THE ACADEMIC YEAR 2014 - 2015 At the heart of the 'ethos' at Batley Parish School lies the Christian Faith and from that the importance attached to nurturing and developing in our youngsters, the skills and objectives that will enable them to develop into tolerant caring adults with an inner spiritual contentment to guide them through, and along, the various stages of life and this is reflected in the Admission Policy of the School.

Children with a Statement of Special Educational Needs and for whom Batley Parish C.E. (VA) school is named shall be given priority over all other children. 1). All looked after children.

2). Children whose parents are *regular worshipping members of Batley Parish Church. Children who are *regular worshipping members of Batley Parish Church.

3). Children whose parents are *regular worshipping members of St Thomas Batley, St Andrew Purwell, St Johns Carlinghow and other Churches in the Batley Parish Boundary that accept the doctrine of the Holy Trinity and satisfy that Churches qualification of membership. Children who are *regular worshipping members of that Church.

 Note: REGULAR ATTENDANCE IS DEFINED AS:  a) AT THE HEART OF THE CHURCH: "ATTENDING CHURCH FOR WORSHIP AT LEAST TWICE PER MONTH". AND OVER A PERIOD OF NOT LESS THAN 12 MONTHS.

 b) ATTATCHED TO THE CHURCH: "ATTENDING CHURCH FOR WORSHIP AT LEAST ONCE PER MONTH". AND OVER A PERIOD OF NOT LESS THAN 12 MONTHS.

4). Children with a brother or sister attending Batley Parish Junior and Infant School at the proposed date of admission.

5). Children / Parent who are **resident in the Batley Parish Boundary who have special needs on social / medical grounds for whom this school is appropriate. N.B. Parents applying under this category will have a supporting letter (in a sealed envelope) from the Medical Officer of Health, Hospital Consultant, or Director of Social Services.

6). Children resident** within the area as defined as the Batley Parish Boundary and who do not qualify under the above criteria (Numbers 1 - 6). N.B. A map showing this area is displayed in the entrance halls of the School and Nursery. Applications from these children will be decided on the shortest walking distance from the school (measured from front door to nearest school gate) the nearest being given priority.

7). Children who are resident** outside the Batley Parish Boundary. Applications from these children will be decided on the shortest walking distance from the school (measured from front door to nearest school gate) the nearest being given priority.

** Note: "RESIDENT" REFERS TO THE CHILD'S PERMANENT HOME AT THE PROPOSED DATE OF ADMISSION.

** Note: "OVERSUBSCRIPTION IN ANY OF THE ABOVE CATEGORIES WILL BE DECIDED ON THE NEAREST WALKING DISTANCE TO SCHOOL.

NOTE: “SUPPLEMENTARY EVIDENCE UST BE RETURNED TO THE SCHOOL BY THE CLOSING DATE GIVEN BY THE LOCAL AUTHORITY FOR THAT ACADEMIC YEAR.

NOTES 1. Map

A map showing the ecclesiastical parish boundary (ies) is available at the school. If there are more applications in a particular category than the number of places available, the remaining places will be offered to the children whose permanent address is nearest to school – the distance being measured from the school’s front door to the front door of the child’s permanent address (Local authority map system). A map showing the admissions priority area for admissions is available at the school.

2. Parents ‘Parents’ include all those people who have a parental responsibility for a child as set out in the Children Act 1989. Where responsibility for a child is ‘shared’, the person receiving Child Benefit is deemed to be the parent responsible for completing application forms, and whose address will be used for admissions purposes.

3. Home Address and Residing In

The home address will be the address used for correspondence related to where “Child Benefit” is paid. In cases where there is doubt of the home address or where a child lives between two homes (split families) or other relevant circumstances, proof of the home address must be provided to the school to confirm the address used on the application form. Home address will be the address that complies with the above at the closing date for applications set by the Local Authority.

Families who are due to move house should provide a. a solicitor’s letter confirming that exchange of contracts has taken place on the purchase of a property; b. a copy of the current rental agreement, signed by both the tenants and the landlords, showing the address of the property c. in the case of SERVING H.M. Forces personnel, an official letter confirming their date of posting from the MOD, FCO or GCHQ.

4. Other Christian Churches (Churches Together in England) The Baptist Union of Great Britain Methodist Church Cherubim and Seraphim Council of Churches Moravian Church Church of England New Testament Assembly Church of Scotland Religious Society of Friends Congregational Federation Roman Catholic Church Council of African and Afro-Caribbean Churches Russian Orthodox Church Council of Oriental Orthodox Christian Churches Salvation Army Free Churches’ Council United Reform Church Greek Orthodox Church Wesleyan Holiness Church Independent Methodist Churches Ichthus Christian Fellowship Joint Council for Anglo-Caribbean Churches Lutheran Council of Great Britain International Ministerial Council of GreatBritain

5. The term “Sibling” is defined as: • a full or half brother or sister • a step brother or sister • an adoptive brother or sister • the children of parents living together in the same family household. Step-brother, step-sister, half-brother and half-sister are defined as children who belong to only one parent living in the same family household. The Governing Body will, as far as possible, admit twins, triplets or children from other multiple births as long as they comply with the infant class size regulations.

6. Waiting Lists Parents who wish their child to be included on the waiting list must inform the school in writing. Any places that become available will be allocated according to the published over subscription criteria of the admission policy with no account being taken of the length of time on the waiting list or any priority order expressed as part of the main Admission round.

In accordance with paragraph 3.27 of The Admissions Code. - As soon as school places become vacant The Governing Body must fill the vacancies from any waiting list, even if this is before admission appeals have been heard. Placing a child’s name on a waiting list does not affect a parent’s right of appeal against an unsuccessful application.

The waiting list will be reviewed and revised:

• each time a child is added to, or removed from, the waiting list • when a child’s changed circumstances will affect their priority • at the end of each school year, parents with a child on the waiting list will need to complete the in year transfer form if they wish to remain on the list for the following school year.

It should be noted that children who are the subject of direction by a local authority to admit or who are allocated to a school in accordance with an In-Year Fair Access Protocol (paragraph 3.28 of The Admissions Code), must take precedence over those on a waiting list. Where an admission authority holds a waiting list, they must make clear in their admission arrangements that these children will take precedence over any child already on that list. Legislation enables this to be done immediately without the need to apply to the Schools Adjudicator for a variation in determined admission arrangements.

7. Appeals Where the governors are unable to offer a place because the school is over subscribed, parents have the right to appeal to an independent admission appeal panel, set up under the School Standards and Framework Act, 1998, as amended by the Education Act, 2002. Parents who intend to make an appeal against the Governing Body’s decision to refuse admission must submit a notice of appeal to:

The Clerk to Aided School Appeal Panel Wakefield Diocesan Board of Education Church House 1 South Parade Wakefield WF1 1LP Telephone: 01924 371802 within twenty one days of receiving the refusal letter. Normally appeal hearings will be held within six weeks of the closing date for receiving the notice of appeal. If your child was refused a place in Reception or Key Stage 1 because of Government limits on Infant class sizes, the grounds on which your appeal could be successful are limited. You would have to show that the decision was one which in the circumstances no reasonable Governing Body would have made, or that your child would have been offered a place if the governors’ admissions arrangements had been properly implemented. Please note that this right of appeal against the governors’ decision does not prevent you from making an appeal in respect of any other school.

Immediately before starting School for the First Time

Just before your child starts school for the first time he or she will receive a personal note asking him/her to visit us and spend sometime in the classroom. The children usually enjoy this initial contact and spend the time building, playing in the sand and home bay, painting or simply preferring to sit and watch their future classmates. Parents of new pupils are also invited to a meeting or an evening during the summer term prior to their child’s visit. At the meeting we usually cover such items as school organisation and what your child will need at school.

It will help us if your child is able to do the following: 1. Dress and undress himself for Physical Education. 2. Remove his coat, gloves etc and hang them up. 3. Tie his shoelaces. 4. Use the toilet properly. 5. Use a handkerchief efficiently. 6. Use a knife and fork. 7. Share things and ‘take turns’.

We do accept that children develop at different stages both mentally and physically and if, for example, your child cannot tie shoelaces efficiently, please don’t worry. We are prepared to help. What one child is ready for another may not be. Please don’t worry either if your child doesn’t settle in at school immediately. Some children cry on the first morning and never cry again; some during the first week and some weeks later, having apparently settled down well at the beginning. We are happy if you wish to bring your children into school to begin with - it can help him/her to settle. However, the time will come when your child won’t need or want you to come in. The break will come quite naturally. Parents are welcome to visit the school at any convenient time throughout the year. In addition to the many informal opportunities for contact between parents and staff there are a number of more formal parents evenings when children’s progress is discussed. The opportunities are listed in the school diary and occur once a term.

INFORMATION RELATING TO THE LIFE OF THE SCHOOL

School Colours and School Dress The school encourages the wearing of school colours as it increases the corporate feeling within the school. This view is supported by parents. The uniform includes the following:

School Uniform A compulsory uniform is now worn. This consists of a navy blue sweatshirt on which the school badge is embroidered, (these can be ordered through the school). Navy or grey shirts / trousers are to be worn with white or blue polo shirts or ordinary shirts / blouses. Jeans and track suit bottoms are not acceptable. We hope that your child will take pride in wearing their school uniform. PE Uniform All children are expected to change into suitable PE clothing for PE. A cotton pump bag – named - is the best type of bag for carrying PE kit. Our cloakrooms are very small and large bags can become dangerous obstacles.

We suggest the following kit for PE:

Boys Traditional white or black shorts (nylon or cotton) Traditional plain white T-shirt or polo shirt. Short plain white socks Plain pumps (black or white) – lace up or slip on.

Girls As for the boys. Leotards are acceptable.

Please ensure that your child’s name is on their kit. For games lessons the usual assortment of ‘team strips’ and track suits are acceptable.

Jewellery is not suitable wear for school especially dangling earrings, necklaces etc which are dangerous in playground situations. We therefore ask you not to allow your child to come to school wearing jewellery. However, if your child has pierced ears they may wear plain silver or gold studs.

It is important to name all garments especially those likely to be removed, for example in PE – e.g. coats, shirts, dresses, socks etc. For this purpose we strongly recommend the sew-in-type of labels but there are other methods (laundry markers etc). Please also name wellington boots and if possible send a named peg to clip them together, pumps, shoes, sandals - so many of them look alike!

School Meals During the lunch break the Principal Lunchtime Supervisor is wholly responsible on behalf of the Headteacher (or deputy Headteacher) for the organisation and supervision of the children at lunchtime. She works closely with teaching staff, other supervisory assistants and her staff.

Excellent school meals are cooked on the premises by our Catering Supervisor and her kitchen staff, and there is a good choice. Dinner money is collected on Mondays, or the first day back after a holiday and meals can be paid for weekly or for up to a term in advance. Payment by cheque is preferred and when there are two or more children in school parents are asked to keep money and cheques for each child separate. Dinner money must be enclosed in an envelope, clearly marked with your child’s name and class.

Free School Meals Free school meals may be available to children whose parents are in receipt of Income Support or Income Based Job Seekers Allowance. Also, Child Tax Credit (but not Working Tax Credit) providing they do not have an income (as assessed by the Inland Revenue) which exceeds £16.190 then their children would be entitled to free school meals. Also, children registered under part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 may also be entitled. Children who receive Income Support or Income Based Job Seekers Allowance in their own right are also entitled to receive free school meals.

Packed Lunches Some children bring packed lunches and these are eaten in the hall. Water is provided. One week’s notice should be given for those wishing to change from one system to the other so that the school kitchen can be informed and orders amended. The Catering Supervisor and Headteacher regularly review the standard of meals and are actively promoting healthy menu selections with a balanced nutritional content.

Appointments If your child has a morning appointment at, for example, the dentist, will you please let us know whether or not he/she is returning for lunch – and also whether or not a school meal or sandwiches are to be eaten.

Snacks in School The Governing Body has an agreed policy on the eating of snacks in school time. Parents can provide a fresh fruit/vegetable snack, such as apple, carrots, banana, etc. All Key Stage One children (aged 4 – 7) are provided with a free piece of fruit every day.

Water Coolers The school has two water coolers dispensing filtered water for use by the children. Children should provide their own drinking bottles: these should be taken home and washed on a weekly basis.

Positive Approach Towards Good Social Behaviour Children are encouraged to be responsible for their own behaviour and we believe in a positive approach towards this. We have agreed a code of conduct:

Everyone in school is: - Loving and caring - Kind and considerate - Treated equally with compassion

We believe that the benefits of good social behaviour are that children: a) Learn what good behaviour means. b) Learn to care for one another. c) Learn the value of friendship. d) Develop self-confidence. e) Do as well as possible in school work.

There are then, of course, associated benefits for the teachers, pupils and parents. Self discipline is the aim and the children are expected to appreciate that the needs of others should be considered. Reprimands are given where necessary with explanations as to why they are needed. Impositions and withdrawal of privileges are used on occasions. Parents are involved at an early stage in the case of children with specific problems. Exclusion at, say, lunch times has only been used in very exceptional cases. School Times 8:55 – 12:05 / 1:15 – 3:30 Key Stage 1 8:55 - 12:20 / 1:15 – 3:30 Key Stage 2

Please note the school cannot offer supervision of children in the playground before school starts. The Governors actively discourage children arriving at school before 8.45

Communication and Liaison There are a variety of ways in which parents can maintain contact with the school.

1. Parents are most welcome to see the Head, Deputy or Class Teacher at any mutually convenient time.

2. Through the Parent Governors on the Governing Body.

3. Formal Open Evenings and Consultations which are held twice a year.

4. Newsletters and Information Bulletins. Including the facility to e-mail bulletins to you; to subscribe please send an email to the office: [email protected] with the word bulletin in the subject line.

5. Notice boards around school.

6. School Events.

7. FOBP (Friends of Batley Parish) Less formal events such as concerts, sports, class dances etc.

FOBPS (Friends of Batley Parish) The FOBPS which consists of parents, friends and staff of the school takes an active part in supporting the school governors and provides special funds for school. Functions of a social and/or education nature are held throughout the year. The basic aims of the organisation are: a) To raise money for the benefit of the school. a) To enable and support a partnership between parents and staff, home and school. c) To organise functions of a social nature.

Parents Helping in School The assistance of parents in school is always appreciated. A note is sent out at the beginning of the new school year inviting parents to a meeting or to indicate on a form if they feel able to help in the classrooms. The work usually involves baking, sewing, helping in the ‘activity’ areas, backing books, supervising painting or similar activities. All adults who work in school are asked to undertake a ‘CRB’ check (such checks are free for volunteers) which is very straightforward to complete. Those parents who have helped in the past seem to have enjoyed themselves and the system appears to be mutually advantageous. Notes from Parents Please be good enough to let us know by telephone, or letter, by 10.00am on each day of absence when your child is ill. It is our policy to chase up unexplained absence every morning, so please remember to keep the school informed. It is particularly helpful, as we have to record and publish all absences, either in an authorised or unauthorised category.

THE SCHOOL CURRICULUM General Aims

One of the best definitions of the term curriculum is provided by Chris Kyriacou who indicates that it covers all the learning experiences set up by a school to achieve specified educational objectives. We hope to enable all to succeed through the learning experiences we provide; our general curriculum aims are to help each child to:

1. Apply computational skills with speed and accuracy, and to use mathematical techniques appropriate to situations in everyday life.

2. Become an independent reader and read with understanding, feeling and discrimination material appropriate to his/her age and interest.

3. Develop an understanding of the spoken word, to listen attentively and to convey meaning effectively.

4. Convey meaning accurately in written language for a variety of purposes and to develop technical competence.

5. Produce clear legible writing and to present work attractively.

6. Develop an interest in, and an ability to understand, the nature of the physical and biological world through observation, experimentation and systematic enquiry.

7. Develop geographical knowledge and understanding, and an opportunity to gain experience of a variety of environments.

8. Develop an interest in and an ability to interpret the past, through the local environment, knowledge of the key issues in British, European and World history and an appreciation of human achievement.

9. Become aware of the influence of technology in the home, the workplace and lifestyles and to identify needs, plan, make and test.

10. Appreciate the visual arts, music and drama and to develop skills and sensitivity as a means of expression.

11. Develop co-ordination of mind and body through participation in physical activities, a sense of fair play and a positive attitude to sporting behaviour. 12. Acquire a set of moral and spiritual values, an understanding of Christian beliefs, a respect for other races and religions and a reverence for all life.

13. Have an awareness of self and sensitivity to others, and to develop habits of self discipline and acceptable behaviour.

Our curriculum comprises the subjects of The National Curriculum at Primary School level, (the core subjects - English, Mathematics, Science - plus Geography, History, Design Technology, Information Technology, Music, Art and Physical Education), together with RE and the Cross Curricular elements of Health Education, Drug Education, Citizenship, Careers Education and Environmental Education. Other important aspects are Equal Opportunities, Multi-Cultural Education, Bullying and Positive Behaviour which form our Personal and Social Education Programme. The curriculum is seen as a continuation from Reception to Year 6, with statutory assessments at the end of the Key Stages at Years 2 and 6.

Some of the work is linked thematically and each year group has six focused half termly themes. Where it is not appropriate to link subjects they are taught as a discreet subject. Mathematics, for example, is treated as a single subject although work of a mathematical nature is included in other areas. English, also, whilst included in thematic work, is also treated as a separate discipline. From September 1998 the school has been using the National Literacy Strategy to teach English and in September 1999 adopted the National Numeracy Strategy. Science is both a single discipline and an aspect of thematic work.

A variety of teaching styles are used - whole class, group and individual. The time set aside for teaching during the school day excluding breaks, assembly and registration is 4 hours 45 minutes (Key Stage 2) and 4 hours 15 minutes (Key Stage 1).

Pupils’ Progress and Pupils’ Attainment Individual records of progress in both academic and social development are kept. The information is passed on to parents in written form at the end of each school year. Parents are also able to visit school formally on two occasions to discuss pupil’s progress with members of staff. In October there is an opportunity for parents to meet their child’s teacher and discuss how their child has settled into the new class. In February a timed interview system enables parents and teachers to meet for 10 minutes to discuss the child’s progress towards meeting targets set out in October. Parents are always welcome to discuss their child’s educational progress or any other matter with the class teacher, senior staff or Headteacher at a mutually convenient time. Each child’s progress through school is monitored in a variety of ways. In addition to records kept by the staff on each child, more formal assessment takes place in reading from Year 2 upwards. Tests which measure progress in other areas and also serve a diagnostic function are used from Year 3 onwards. National Curriculum assessment takes place at the end of Year 2 and Year 6.

Complaints Procedure Should a parent have cause for concern or complaint about a curriculum matter the following procedure is available as a course of action. The initial concern should be raised with the class teacher if it is a specific matter related to the work of that class. The Headteacher or Deputy Headteacher should then be advised if there is a more general concern or the parent feels that the matter has not been satisfactorily addressed. The Headteacher and/or Deputy will arrange to meet with the parents to discuss the complaint. The Headteacher may need to gather information and then meet again with the parent and have further discussions. If the matter is still unresolved the parent may then take the complaint to the Governing Body.

The procedures then provide for the complaint to be considered formally by the school governors who have an appeals procedure in place. Full details of the procedures are available in our “Curriculum Complaints Policy” which can be obtained from the school office.

Religious Education Through Assemblies and in class we aim to:

Promote an awareness of self and sensitivity to others, and to develop habits of self discipline and acceptable behaviour.

Acquire a set of moral and spiritual values, and understanding of Christian beliefs, a respect for other races and religions and a reverence for all life.

Introduce children to the major stories and characters of the Old and New Testaments and about other world faiths.

In addition to daily assemblies or class prayers, worship, at times, takes place in church. The vicar takes an active part in the worshipping life of the school and conducts a weekly assembly.

The Education Act requires that all pupils of compulsory age take part in daily collective worship. Parents may approach the Headteacher for details of arrangements which may be made for children to withdraw from religious instruction and worship. However, the Governors feel very strongly that in a Church School, full participation is expected and we hope all parents will give their support to our religious aims.

Sex Education The school governors have agreed that, in line with the governments proposals, sex education should be taught in school and it forms part of the school’s health education programme. The school’s overall aim is to help pupils to cope with the physical and emotional challenge of growing up and to give them an elementary understanding of human reproduction and the working of the body. Care is taken to match teaching to the maturity of pupils involved since there may be discrepancies for some pupils between their chronological and development ages.

Teaching is generally in class groups and parents are informed about the syllabus. Parents have the right to withdraw their child from the non-compulsory part of the Sex Education Curriculum under the 1993 Education Act.

Homework We believe that homework can play an important role and enhance the work going on in the classroom. For each year group parents are informed in September about the nature and amount of homework likely to be set during the year and how they will be informed of the tasks. It is not the policy of the school to overburden either a child or a family with homework. Please follow the guidelines.

Reading All children learn to read at different stages using a variety of different reading materials and approaches. We encourage children to enjoy reading other materials as well as a reading book sent home from a school scheme. We have two libraries: non fiction and fiction - books can be taken home a weekly loan basis.

Educational Visits and Journeys A number of educational visits are made throughout the year, to support the work of the school. They are either short visits to places in the immediate vicinity or a day visit to somewhere further afield. The day visits are usually to places such as farms, Scarborough, local Industrial Museums, Art galleries, Oakwell Hall, Eden camp and other places of educational interest. The visits are linked to specific areas of the curriculum. During Year 5 children are given the opportunity to go to Cliffe House and during Year 6 Robinwood. School visits must have a permission slip signed by a parent or guardian.

Under the terms of the Education Reform Act we are no longer allowed to make a charge in the accepted sense of the word for school visits which are “deemed to take place in school hours”. The school governors have agreed though that educational visits are an important aspect of both school life and curriculum development, and support the school’s long established policy. This is that: • We continue to seek contributions. • That pupils will not be treated differently whether or not their parents have made a contribution. • Full details of the ‘charges and remissions’ policy can be obtained from school.

Swimming Children have the opportunity to visit the swimming baths with their class on a weekly basis during the whole of year 5. The availability of the baths limits children from year 4 and year 6to weekly attendance for shorter periods of time. The school will keep parents informed of the details of when a class attends swimming lessons. The boys need to have trunks (not shorts), a swimming cap with your child’s name on the front is required by everyone. Swimmers are not allowed to wear jewellery. Pierced earrings have to be removed.

Musical Instrument Tuition This service is provided by visiting teachers from the Kirklees School of Music, although the recorder is taught in school by our own staff.

Children are given the opportunity to play with a variety of instruments, e.g. the clarinet and flute, the violin, the cello, piano and the guitar. A reasonable charge, as in Kirklees Education Department Schools, is made for a weekly group lesson. An instrument hire service is available. As instrumental staff teaching hours are dependent on tuition fees, mid-term pupil resignations do not regrettably, qualify for a rebate. Full details are available in the leaflet Music Service Instrumental Teaching – A Guide for Parents.

The school also runs its own singing group and band under the guidance of our music specialist.

Sport in School Sport makes an important contribution to the physical and social development of children. Games are timetabled throughout the year and each year group will be introduced to games and the skills/attributes required to participate. By the end of Key Stage 2 the children will be involved in playing a variety of sports, with the opportunity to play team games out of school in any of the following sports; football, netball, or cricket.

Out of School Activities These depend very much on the interests of the staff at any given period. We are lucky, though, as a number of staff organise a range of out-of school activities in their spare time. Activities include the following clubs: netball, multiskills, street dancing recorders, chess, band, singing group, drama and art.

Special Educational Needs At Batley Parish CE VA J, I and N School we work in line with the Code of Practice on the Identification and Assessment of Special Educational Needs (2001). We operate on a staged model for meeting special educational needs with the school responsible for the early detection and support of children with special educational needs.

Children identified as having special educational needs will have their progress monitored on the school’s special needs register. Parents are involved at every stage and whatever is recommended is discussed fully. The school’s special needs co-ordinator is always available to discuss any concerns you may have. Part time staff and classroom assistants are available to assist class teachers with children who require specific help in any aspect of the curriculum. We maintain close links with the L.A. pupil support service and their educational psychologist is involved in regular meetings with staff and parents for those children requiring more intensive or specialist help. Full details of our special needs policy, identification assessment and provision are to be found in the “Special Educational Needs Policy” available from school. This policy was reviewed and updated during 2010.

Transfer to the Next Stage of Education During the autumn term of your child’s final year in school (the school year in which they reach their eleventh birthday), you will receive a booklet from the Authority explaining the procedure for making your choice. Information is also usually sent out before the booklet explaining when the parents can visit the secondary schools they are considering.

Health and Welfare Children are usually medically examined by the health service before they are admitted to the reception classes. Periodic checks are then made throughout your child’s time with us. Medical Aid The school is usually made aware, prior to a child starting school, of specific health problems, eg poor hearing, asthma etc by the health clinic, but it is helpful if parents let us know of any specific problems. Within school, class teachers have initial responsibility for the pastoral needs of the children in their classes. First Aid of a basic nature is usually dealt with by support staff. If a child is ill or badly injured we prefer to contact parents and either seek their advice or suggest the child should be taken home. In the case of an emergency, if parents cannot be contacted, we would then decide, for example, whether a cut head needed further treatment.

The school often sends ‘bumped head’ notes home. This is our own standard form which merely informs you that your child has bumped some part of his head, often slightly, in school.

We are not eager to administer medicines on parents’ behalf and cannot ultimately be held responsible.

The policy for administering medicines at Batley Parish is as follows:

If any medicine has to be given 3 times a day, it should be arranged so that it is not necessary for it to be brought into school. This includes over the counter preparations such as Calpol, Buttercup Syrup, Piriton, etc which will not be given in school unless prescribed for your child by a doctor to be taken 4 times daily. We understand that medicine which has to be taken more frequently (i.e. 4 times daily) means that it must be brought into school.

In the event of a medicine being prescribed by your child’s doctor to be taken 4 times per day you, as a parent, have the choice of either (a) coming into school with the medicine and administering it yourself to your child, or (b)completing a form for medicines at the school office and informing the class teacher.

NO medicines will be administered without this form having been completed by the parent/guardian. If you choose option b) then it is on the strict understanding that the school can accept no liability for failure to administer the medicine. We follow the most recent guidance from the Health Protection Agency (as provided by our school nurse).

In the interest of health/safety medicines must always be taken straight to the school office by an adult and must not, under any circumstances, be left with your child (or with the teacher in the classroom).

The only exceptions are:- i) for the control of asthma and in this instance the inhaler must be clearly labelled (both canister and case) with the child’s name and class and given to the teacher who will ensure that it is available at all times during the school day. ii) if your child has a health care plan, therefore special arrangements will be put into force. Thank you for your co-operation.

Other Health Screening Hearing and sight tests are also carried out in school by our school nurse. If any problems are identified parents are informed. Height and weight surveys are occasionally undertaken.

Request for holiday/special circumstances absences If a request for absence is received, it must be sent to the Head teacher for authorisation. A letter responding to the request will be issued stating whether the holiday is authorised or unauthorised. This will be recorded on the register by the Attendance Office. In exceptional circumstances, pupils are allowed 10 school days absence in any one academic year. Holidays taken without permission will be automatically marked as unauthorised and a fine may be levied at the discretion of the head teacher. Anything recorded over the statutory 10 days is automatically recorded as unauthorised.  represents children who were not entered for the tests because they were working below level 3 in English, mathematics or science; children awarded a compensatory level from the tests; and children entered for but not achieving a level from the tests.