Information Booklet for New Families and Staff 2019-2020

Thank you for choosing Horotiu and it is my sincere pleasure to welcome you to our school and to the wider community. As you will no doubt learn in the weeks and months to come, we really are an extremely active, motivated and nurturing environment to be part of. This year we hope to see significant changes within the school, as our dynamic staff explore key initiatives like; PB4L, the Early Years Intervention Programme, Ka Hikitia, Enviro Schools and Innovative Learning Pedagogies. At the same time we will see changes to our staffing structure and an upgrade of our physical spaces and classroom resources.

As a school we a blessed with a phenomenal group of learners and staff, who strive to achieve and make us very proud. Some of our key regular activities and opportunities for learners include; Senior Camp, Agricultural Day, Gala, Kaapa Haka, Waka Koopapa, Marae Visits, Choir, Talent Quests, Production, Triathlon, Cultural Festivals, Interschools Competitions, Inline Hockey and Enviro Schools.

As new members to our community, please do be encouraged to pop in at anytime should you have a question, interest, need or concern. We do genuinely value feedback and promote an open door policy.

The purpose of this handbook is to provide parents, whaanau and/or students with information relating to the school that might be useful at different times after enrolment. It is unlikely to contain answers to all your queries but it is hoped that most of your queries can be answered by reading the appropriate section in here. Please do contact the school if you have a question and it is not answered in this book. It is likely that others will have at some time the same question and so in future updates we will include information to help. We now very much looking forward to meeting and working with you.

Kind regards,

Leo Spaans Principal

DESCRIPTION OF SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY

Horotiu School is a full state, co-educational primary situated in a semi-rural community 10 km north of Hamilton. The school has a strong connection with local iwi, that is Te Rohe ō Waikato, and the wider-community. Our 1 July roll number is usually between 220 - 240, with approximately 50% European, 49% Māori, 1% Other. Our children are split between Horotiu, Huntly and Ngāruawāhia, with a small number coming from Hamilton.

We are a family orientated school with generational connections, providing a physically and emotionally safe environment for our learners. All students have equal access to learning opportunities regardless of ability, gender, race and personal circumstances. We provide a balanced and engaging curriculum for our learners.

History of the School Horotiu School actually began as Pukete School in 1879, situated near the corner of what is now known as Bern Road. In 1909 the school was burnt down, and it was eight years before another permanent school building was built. In 1917, a new two-classroom school was erected on the present site. In 1992, the “old block” was moved to Turangawaewae Marae, and a new Junior Block arrived. Additional classrooms arrived in 93/94, with the latest class built on site at the end of 2003. At the beginning of 2003 our Administration Area was upgraded. This was followed by a new school hall, library and eighth classroom. In 2006 the school added a sports shed, senior playground/fitness trail and installed an all-weather netball/basketball court. Renovations to the pool area, junior playground and most recently new scooter track, have also been completed within the last decade. The school has recently initiated its journey towards developing ILE pedagogies and physical construction of learning communities were initiated between August 2016 and December 2018. We are hoping to have works completed on the Year 5&6 learning community in 2019.

School Description Horotiu School is a full state, co-educational primary situated 10 km north of Hamilton. Our 1 July roll number is usually between 210 - 255, with approximately 50% European, 45% Māori, 5% Other. Our children come from Horotiu and Ngaruawahia, with a small number coming from Hamilton. The school has on site a swimming pool and changing sheds, an adventure playground, a shaded sandpit, a senior resource room, junior and senior playgrounds, new AstroTurf, scooter track, radio station and an all-weather netball court.

Staffing The school is fortunate to have a dedicated staff, who show a genuine commitment to the learning and well-being of all the children in their care. This year we have 11 full-time teaching staff and two part-time teachers. We also have five teacher aides, a caretaker, kaiawhina and an amazing office manager. We also have access to a Resource Teacher of Learning & Behaviour and a resident Social Worker. In addition, we enjoy support from the Public

Health Nurse, the Police Education Officer, Speech/Language Therapists, Hearing/Vision Therapists, Dental Technicians, Special Education Service, Truancy Service and the Children and Oranga Tamariki.

Board of Trustees The Horotiu Board of Trustees comprises 5 parental members, a staff representative and the Principal. The school is well supported by the Board of Trustees and caregivers/community members are welcome to attend meetings. We are progressive, forward thinking and strategic with how we deliver the curriculum to the children at our school. We place great emphasis on doing the very best that is possible for the children, and from this comes innovation, high standards, and excellence.

We set high personal academic, sporting, and cultural and behavioral expectations for our children, and strive to ensure our children achieve success in all areas. As a school, we have distinct focus areas, which guide our curriculum and provide a scaffold for our future learning success. These have been developed through consultation with our community, the BOT, the MOE and via research on what skills learners will need to be successful in the future. Over the past few years there have been significant developments including teacher involvement in professional development relating to information and communication technologies (ICT), and teaching practices that are responsive to the cultural needs and diversity of students; the school has implemented PB4L and is in the process of implementing Ka Hikitia.

Horotiu School promotes the behaviour values , skills and attitudes aligned to the 3B’s: Be a Positive Role Model Be an Active Learner Be Respectful

The school environment is fully inclusive where children demonstrate open, caring and friendly relationships.

SCHOOL PROFILE Particular initiatives, programmes and features of the school include: • PB4L: Positive Behaviour for Learning • Poutama of Learning with Waikato University • Learner Inquiry • A relationship with the School of Education/ Teachers College

• Te Reo me ōnā tikanga Māori Cultural Programmes • Sports, including Kiwi Sport and Project Energize • Enviro Schools Education • Resource Teacher Literacy (R.T.Lit) • Health Promoting Schools • Incredible Years • Associate member of He Waka eke Noa Col

Specialist Services: Our school has access to specialist services and, usually after consultation with parents, we contact these groups in the interests of children when it is deemed necessary. The support agencies include: • Attendance Service; • Resource Teacher: Learning / Behaviour; • Community Health Nurse; • Special Education; • Oranga Tamariki (Child Youth Family Services); • Speech Language Therapists; • Youth Aide Officers (Police); • Traffic Education Officers; • Hearing Assessment and Guidance Services, and • Parent Line

ICT AND E-BLENDED LEARNING There is a strong focus at Horotiu School to effectively integrate the use of technology to increase student engagement and achievement. The Board of Trustees is committed to further developments to grow the school’s IT capacity and capabilities as we work through the new Digital Literacy Curriculum. We do promote ubiquitous learning and have a couple of BYOD (bring your own device) pods in the senior school. We do ask that parents let us know, if we are not able to publish pictures of their children through digital platforms. Families are also required to sign a ICT user agreement to support cyber safety. This is a contract between the school and the student asking that they follow certain rules about the appropriate use of technology.

SCHOOL BOARD AND PARENT SUPPORT GROUP Parents/Caregivers are a vital part of our school. We have a very active Parent Support Group - Friends of the School, and the Hui ā whānau forum which seeks to engage in meaningful consultation and collaboration with the parent- community. Parents and whānau are involved in many ways including fundraising, coaching and managing school sports teams, and assisting on school trips and school camps.

Board of Trustees The Horotiu Board of Trustees comprises 5 parental members, a staff representative and the principal. The school is well supported by the Board of Trustees and caregiver’s/community members are welcome to attend meetings as long as prior notice is provided. The Board is the official link between the school, the school community and the Ministry of Education. The BOT support the Principal in the effective governance and management of the school. BOT Elections will be held in June 2019.

STAFFING AND STUDENT ROLL The school is fortunate to have a stable staff, who show a genuine commitment to the learning and well-being of all the children in their care. This year we have nine full-time teaching staff and four part-time teachers. We also have six teacher aides, a caretaker and a school secretary who is employed in a full-time capacity. We also have access to a Resource Teacher of Learning & Behaviour (RTLB). We also have the support of a resident SWiS or Social Worker in Schools.

The school uses outside agencies and receives assistance from the Public Health Nurse, the Police Education Officer, Speech/Language Therapists, Hearing/Vision Therapists, Dental Technicians, Special Education Service, Truancy Service and the Children and Young Persons Service.

FINANCE, BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS: The school is in a sound financial position. In accordance with BOT and MOE mandates the school will initiate its journey towards being an innovative learning environment in 2017-2020, with changes likely across the school.

Horotiu School has an impressive property footprint. Ample hard-court and grassed areas provide suitable play-areas. The school has nine classrooms, which includes a utility room funded by the Board of Trustees. A modern administration area is warm and inviting and a magnificent school hall is well utilised for a range of school and community activities. A junior reading resource/Reading Recovery room is attached to the junior block. Other buildings include a library, offices for the principal and secretary, interview room and a staffroom. The school has on site a revamped swimming pool and changing sheds, an adventure playground, a covered sandpit, a senior resource room, new junior and senior playgrounds, and an all-weather netball court.

COMMUNITY Pride in the school by the local community is very evident. This is probably most obvious through events like; Gala, the Community Raft Race, Cultural Festival, Waka Koopapa Regatta, Ki-o-rahi tournament, Annual Hangi, Sporting Fixtures, Agricultural Days and the high volume of traffic in and out of school on a daily basis.

The Maaori community is also actively involved with the school, including assisting with Tikanga Māori activities at our local Marae, Tūrangawaewae and Waikeri. There is also a rich kapa haka programme, waka koopapa teams and the annual cultural festival which is a huge event.

Our students are typically confident and happy in the school environment, and display great trust and affection towards the staff. In recent years our learners have enjoyed victories in the Waikato Police Training Challenge, Waikato Amazing Race, Waka Kopapa races and local cluster sports exchanges.

Parents, Caregiver and Whanau Parents/Caregivers show a real interest in the learning, progress and achievement of their children. The school’s curriculum is designed to assist and prepare students as life-long learners. Teacher’s structure programs to cater for the needs of their students, enabling them to reach their fullest potential.

Horotiu School can offer a new family:

• Quality teaching and learning, to support the needs of each child; • An intensive transition and support programme; • A culturally responsive, highly engaging and learner centered school; • a diverse range of motivated, interested students; • a team of dedicated, collaborative, professional staff; • a school that embraces inclusiveness; • opportunities for learners to be innovative and enterprising; and • a motivated, supportive, encouraging School Board of Trustees and wider community to be part of.

Cluster Group Our children participate in sports with the Western Waikato Rural Schools Cluster and He Waka eke Noa Community of Learning activity. Schools comprising this cluster are: Horotiu, Rotokauri, Te Kowhai, Te Mata, Te Rapa, Te Uku, Waitetuna, Whatawhata and Raglan. We enjoy a wide variety of sporting activities throughout the year. We are also involved with the Ngaruawahia Principal’s Association through which we participate in a Year 7 & 8 Extension Program as well as other sporting activities.

Absences Parents or guardians are expected to inform the school of all absences by telephone/text (027 8299 010). These calls should be received before 9.00 am. Parents without a telephone will be expected to deliver a written note of explanation to the school either on the first day of absence (via a “buddy”) or have a note delivered to the class teacher on the day or return. Parents/guardians of children whose absence has not been explained will be contacted by the school office. However, in some cases the Truancy Officer will be advised and be requested to call at the home on behalf of the school.

ACCIDENTS AND SICK CHILDREN Medical Room An adequate stock of first aid items is readily available in the medical room. This includes a current first aid manual, a list of pupil conditions, ice packs and an asthma treatment kit. All teachers have recently completed First Aid Training. (2018-19)

Medication At enrolment time, parents are asked to give any information on medication students may be required to take but over time this may change. The school should be advised through either the teacher or the office if there is a change or new medication is needed. Any students bringing medication to school are asked to leave the items at the office and staff there will ensure medication is taken at appropriate times. Students are not permitted to take medication from staff without parental approval and this needs to be sent to school when the need arises. Also on enrolment, parents are asked if the office staff may issue Panadol to students who occasionally report pain or request a Panadol tablet. We will not issue Panadol without permission and if your position on this changes after enrolment, please let the office know either in writing or by phone.

Logbook A logbook is kept to record all treatments other than matters regarded as minor. A full accident report will record major incidents and this will be forwarded to the Principal and be available to the Board of Trustees. A Hazards and Risk Register sits in the staff room, should a parent or staff member perceive an issue of concern. The Principal and BOT in their role pertaining to ‘duty of care’ are available at all times. The school works hard to ensure is compliant with the 2015 Health and Safety Act.

Special Storage Medications for specific allergies or other conditions are stored in the Secretary’s office. Any specific medicine must be supplied by the parents, clearly labelled and dated. N.B. Internal medication must not be given to any children unless parents have supplied the school with a signed permission slip. The Ministry has provided schools with strict guidelines regarding administration of prescribed medicines, and the school has a policy regarding this.

Medical Field Kits The school maintains one major camping kit as well as smaller field trip kit.

Sending Children Home The school has a “Sick Children at School” policy. Sick – Feeling Unwell at School Students who fall sick during the day are taken to the sick bay where their arrival is recorded along with the symptoms they show. Where appropriate, parents are rung to come and collect their son/daughter and they should be signed out of the sick bay and the exit book before leaving school. In the interests of other students, students who show symptoms of being unwell

9 at home, should not be sent to school. Please ensure that the school has updated contact details, should you change address or phones. Please do keep unwell children at home to avoid spreading illness. Any student that has a tummy bug must be kept home for at least 24 hours AFTER symptoms cease.

Assemblies

School Celebrations Assembly These are held in the Hall every second week on a Friday from 9.10am- 10am. Parents and friends of the school are encouraged to attend. We do also hold a fortnightly PB4L assembly which focuses on values, behavior issues and goal setting.

Buses A daily bus runs from Ngaruawahia to Horotiu in conjunction with the High School. The BOT subsides part costs. Information concerning times and routes can be obtained from the school.

Class, Learning Community Trips It is required that parents be fully informed of all trips via the newsletter or individual class notices. Approval for trips is included on the enrolment form. Horotiu School expects excellent behaviour from its pupils when on trips, visits or camps. All trips off school site must be assessed and planned for using the MOE EOTC Guidelines. Copies of this documentation is available from the office or Principal.

Trip Money Bringing Money to School. If a student brings money to school, they are encouraged to hand it in at the office at the start of the day for collection when needed. Money should not be left in bags or desks etc. Money for trips/camps should be handed in to the main office or to a teacher straight away

CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS / ABILITIES We have a variety of programmes available for children with differing needs. Teacher-aides work with a variety of children/groups. They are also available (time permitting), for other programmes. We run Rainbow Reading in the senior school and children can be offered Reading Recovery when needed. Children with special abilities are catered for also, working with the Principal working on Problem-solving, Technology, Information Technology, and English. The use of external examinations, tests and activities will be a big feature of this group. (e.g. Australasian Competitions, Otago Problem Challenge).

Communication with the Community Open Door Policy Horotiu School has an “Open Door” policy and teachers are encouraged to dialogue with parents. Positive exchange of knowledge and regular contact usually lessens the risk of sudden crises and is in the best interest of children. Please avoid appointments with teachers during school time. Parents who are regular helpers within the school will be required to go through a police vetting process.

Horotiu School hosts parent teacher meetings, quarterly hui, 8 BOT meetings per year, regular transition mornings, bi-annual open days, two formal report discussions and numerous school based engagement events and celebrations. Teachers also communicate with families through; Dojo, Newsletters, the Website and face to face meetings.

Complaints The school has a complaints policy and if you wish to lodge a complaint about some aspect of school the following procedure should be followed: • If the complaint is of a minor nature, see the person concerned and discuss the nature of the complaint. • If the issues cannot be resolved, the complaint should then be put in writing to the AP, DP or senior teacher in charge. • If the issue cannot be resolved by this person, the complaint should be passed on to the Principal to deal with. • If it is not resolved by the Principal or the complaint involves the Principal, it should be put in writing to the Board of Trustees through the Secretary or directly to the Chair. If it is not resolved by the Board, the complaint can then be lodged with the Ministry of Education. The Principal is also available to discuss complaints of a minor nature at any time.

The complaints procedures are available on request or via www.horotiu.school.nz

Newsletters A school community newsletter goes home each fortnight via email on a Thursday. This can also be accessed through our school website. Our newsletters are an important feature, children’s work is included and on occasions the receivers of weekly certificates are named.

Other Information Information is also available in the foyer. There are files with information on: Current year’s newsletters, Notices to Parents, Draft and Approved Policies, Clubs etc., and Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes. The school Charter and annual targets are on display.

Curriculum of Horotiu Horotiu is consistently in the process of re-visioning and reviewing its curriculum to ensure it is reflective of needs, our context and MOE expectation. This year priority is being given to; digital literacy, learner inquiry, culturally responsive pedagogy and our data based needs. As part of this ongoing process we hope to build a personalized curriculum, realize our new vision and mission statements and explore opportunities for increasing student voice or agency within the learning process. We are also actively exploring innovative learning pedagogies and practice to ensure what we do with our learners is appropriate and in response to needs.

Effective Learning within Horotiu

We believe that Horotiu students learn most effectively when they understand what they are learning, why they are learning it, and how they will be able to use their new learning. We strive to stimulate the curiosity and risk taking in all our students, encourage them to search for relevant information and ideas, and challenge them to use or apply what they discover in new contexts or in new ways. The teachers at Horotiu look for opportunities to involve students directly in decisions relating to their own learning. This encourages them to see what they are doing as relevant and to take greater ownership of their own learning. The school places strong emphasis on ubiquitous learning an the underlying notion that learning can occur at anytime and in anyplace, using any tool.

Time Allocations Within the 25 hours of each week it is expected that each class will cover the seven essential learning areas of; Mathematics English (Oral, Written, Listening, Reading, Spelling, Handwriting,) Science, Social Studies (Often based through inquiry based learning) The Arts (Music, Art and Craft, Cultural Activities) Health & Well Being (Health, Phys Ed.) Technology, Information Technology (Digital literacy) Te Reo and Tikanga Maaori

It is also hoped that children will explore; inquiry based learning, research skills and thinking skills through an integrated learning approach.

Dental Care Dental Therapist The dental therapist is resident at Horotiu School for only part of each year. Our school staff have reference telephone numbers for emergency treatment.

Special Checks Parents may request check-ups or consult with the therapist on matters of dental care.

Behaviour Management This school expects and maintains a high standard of discipline and behaviour. To this end, we have two major goals:

1. Teachers have the right to teach 2. Pupils have the right to learn in a safe, secure environment, uninterrupted by the inappropriate behaviour of others. In an effort to accomplish these goals, we have developed a school wide

Behaviour Management Plan Horotiu is a PB4L (Positive Behavior for Learning) school and we were delighted to receive Tier 2 status in March 2016 and have received 100% approval ratings in 2017 and 2018, which is a real source of celebration for us. As part of this initiative we have developed 3 core behavior values (our 3Bees), which sit central to the way in which we work, act and behave. These include; Be a role model; Be respectful; Be an active learner. As part of this initiative we strive to seek out positive behaviours, encourage quality decision making and model restorative justice practices. All staff and students receive regular training in PB4L focus activities and as a school, we collect and use data to ensure outcomes for learning are secured.

Behaviour Management Plan ”Piki i te Maunga” (Climb the Mountain). This has enabled us to acknowledge those children who work well. Those children who disrupt the class, misbehave or distract others etc, will move down the mountain resulting in following the warning consequences should they continue with their behaviour. Each class will have a set of rules, values which must be followed in that particular room. A copy of the rules for your child’s room is available. The negative consequences for breaking the rules are uniform throughout the school and are as follows:

If a child chooses to break a rule: 1st warning: = “What are you doing?” “What should you be doing?” 2nd warning = Write a plan 3rd warning = Write a plan in other room 4th warning = Sent to Principal, parents contacted and problem discussed, or an interview requested. Name recorded. Three fourth warnings in 5 school days will result in a stand-down. The third stand-down will become a suspension. Severe Clause: A pupil who severely disrupts the school and its programs will be sent to the Principal or a senior leader immediately.

Behaviour-Expectations for Teachers Teachers are asked to be professional in deciding consequences for inappropriate behaviour. Our aim is to change both the behaviour and thinking of the child without aggravating the situation by our own actions. To achieve this teacher are asked to use restorative practice approaches when working with

13 child/children. Teachers should take the time early in the year to set class rules and establish routines. Horotiu School will not tolerate defiance, destruction of property, non-compliance, bullying or intimidation, or any act of rudeness. Teachers will be supported in their moves to maintain good order. Each "dilemma" is regarded as a school situation. We expect to resolve more major issues as a team. Staff is asked to take care that they do not act in isolation. See Behaviour Policy 2019.

The Learning Community or class teachers have prime responsibility for the pastoral care of children in the class. However, all members of staff should be made aware of situations where a child may be having some difficulty. If a situation develops with a child that the class teacher feels may cause concern, the Community Leader and the Principal will be advised. Children who are experiencing learning difficulties or behavioural/emotional problems should be referred to the Deputy and Principal. Referral to support staff in school or to outside agencies may then be considered, in liaison with parents. Confidential information is held on the child’s records with the registrar regarding personal/family matters and further information can be added for future records.

Recognition and Reward-How we operate 1. Verbal praise, Dojo, class reward, Principal office visit 2. A certificate prepared by a staff member 3. A phone call home 4. A letter home, Dojo celebration 5. A Principals or Assembly Award 6. Presentation of a Learner Profile certificate/ Red Card– there is no recording necessary.

The following actions should be recognised and/or rewarded within Horotiu: • Students who comply with expectation and allow others to learn • Students who meet the values of the school or models them • Students who are helpful, cooperative, go beyond the call of duty, voluntarily offer to help staff etc • Students who consistently work hard Students who make significant improvement in class or out of class activities

Dress Code Clean and appropriate apparel is expected. Pupils are expected to wear clothing suitable to the weather, learning activities and occasion. Footwear should match conditions. A Horotiu School Hat is compulsory during terms 1 and 4. These may be purchased at the school office for $18.50. This is part of our Sun Safe Policy. School Tee Shirts are compulsory as well to use for inter-school fixtures/other school activities (currently $40). These may be worn for everyday school wear if you wish.

*ALL CLOTHING ITEMS SHOULD BE NAMED.

Emergency Procedures in Horotiu:

Fire Drill Each learning community or class must have the fire exit instructions clearly on display. Teachers and school leaders must ensure all their students and staff and especially relief teachers, are fully briefed on their fire drill, exit locations and assembly points. We also encourage all families to familiarize yourselves and the children in your care, with the location of safe areas, fire alarms and extinguishers. Children never handle extinguishers.

In the event of a fire-visitor response Please go to the assembly point on the main field. Do not go and collect your child, as they will be under a teachers’ supervision. Please do check in with the Principal of Office Manager, to let them know you are safe and can be accounted for.

If you are first to sight the fire, immediately operate the nearest fire alarm call point, or contact a staff member in the office. If there are children in the immediate area, see that they are evacuated.

When you hear an alarm-all community members and staff • Leave the building in carefully and quietly and report to the person in charge of the assembly point. (School Field). Close doors and windows, where appropriate. • A member of the administrative team will ensure that the Fire Service is notified unless informed by the Principal that it is a fire practice. • A member of the admin team takes the registers to the fire assembly point. • If children are with a specialist teacher or admin staff member, that teacher will accompany them to the line-up area. • As soon as all children have been checked present, registers are to be handed to the Emergency Coordinator who will pass them to the Office Executive and inform them that all children are present. • The Executive Officer will check that the fire service has been called. • The Principal and Deputy will check that all persons have left the premises. • The Principal or Deputy, will oversee the checking of the children at the Fire Assembly Point • When the fire siren sounds all classes are to move from the buildings to assemble on the Main Sports Field. Each teacher is to check their roll and notify the Principal when all pupils are accounted for. Pupils should be seated in orderly lines and remain quiet.

Earthquakes-Stop, Drop, Hold. On a shake, teachers, adults are to order pupils under their desks. On cessation, normal work shall continue until further instruction. Teachers are to be fully aware of the consequences of a major earthquake and the responsibilities required of them, which may involve up to 24 hours. A clear knowledge of staff resources and other commitments must be known and documented.

Intruder Alert (Lock Down) In the event of an outside threat to the potential safety of children and/or staff the bell will continuously ring. This signals children to return to their classes and teachers to do likewise, locking all entries to their classrooms. Students should be grouped in a class corner and not be visible from entrance doorways where possible. Doors should be locked or barred where possible. A member of the senior management team will notify teachers when it is safe to have children leaving the classroom. Should a class or classes be in the library or hall when the bell is continuously rung, the class is to stay there until notified it is safe to leave the building, and the teacher is to lock the doors.

Enrolment Preschool children are able to come to school for pre-enrolment visits. We encourage these visits as it makes for a smoother transition from home to school. Details are available upon request. Pre-School Visits can be arranged with the New Entrant Teacher, Mrs Crook, or at the office. These visits are in the afternoon only from the end of lunch to the end of the day. Three school visits is enough for most students.

Enrolment Scheme Due to the risk of overcrowding, the school has been required by the MOE to adopt an Enrolment Scheme. Details of the scheme can be obtained from the school. Parents are encouraged to make applications for enrolment at least two terms before children are to start.

Out of Zone Enrolment-Balloting for 2019. Under the terms of the Education Act Section 11G (1) 1989, the Board of Trustees must implement an Enrolment Scheme to manage the school roll. In implementing the scheme, the Board treats all enrolments fairly.

As many of you are aware we are rapidly reaching the upper limits of our capacity in Horotiu School and we have to be very careful in regards to managing this. Due our increasing popularity, we have had another influx in numbers and need to ensure we are following Ministry Guidelines and Policy. Like all schools in New Zealand, we are honour bound to take all priority one students first, those being students who live in our zone. All Out of Zone families are required to apply through the balloting process, should places become available. (Forms are available through the office.)

A reminder that Out of Zone, Priority 2 Application forms are available at the school office. There are no guarantees and it is important you see the Principal so he can explain space availability and the process. For families who live in zone, you are guaranteed a place

Home Learning Home learning and home work are often areas of contention in school communities. As a school, we actively promote and encourage on going learning in the home environment. We also actively encourage daily home reading, work on basic facts and research into topics or themes visited in class. Research clearly highlights that outcomes for children whose parents are actively involved and supportive of the learning process, are likely to be increased by up to two if sustained across their time in schools!

Parents of all pupils may expect some form of home learning activity four days of the week (Monday - Thursday). Junior Pupils (Years 0-2). Junior pupils are likely to take home readers regularly, collect news items, complete worksheets and many will commence spelling and basic facts lists. This may also include Study Ladder or Maths Buddy. Middle School Pupils (Years 3 & 4). As for juniors but with an increased time allocation. Senior School Pupils (Years 5, 6, 7 & 8). These classes are involved in a more formal pattern which is likely to involve regular spelling learning, mathematics facts learning, research tasks, written language tasks and completion of theme studies.

Lunches A School Canteen operates at Horotiu School. A wide variety of items are available and can be ordered from 8.15am. Breakfast, morning tea and lunch items are available.

* Horotiu provides sandwiches or snacks on a regular basis for children who do not have lunch. Staff are to be aware of those children who would benefit from having their lunch provided by the School. The sandwiches, snacks are located in the Staffroom and may be accessed at morning interval or lunch time, depending on need. Students who are given Kidscam Lunch must have their names and the date recorded in the notebook housed in the staffroom. Horotiu School also runs a Kick Start for Breakfast programme for children who missed breakfast or arrive at school hungry. This occurs daily in the school Hall.

Lunch Times Lunch is from 12.30pm to 1.10 pm.

Lunches and Snacks • At Horotiu we actively encourage a healthy snack and good manners. When appropriate children may wash their hands before eating their snack. • All children sit in a designated area to eat their snack - quietly. • Teachers establish routines to ensure that the desks are clean and hygienic should eating occur inside. • Children should be actively and frequently encouraged to bring a healthy snack and water. • If the food is not eaten it must be left in the snack box so that parents are aware of what their child has / has not eaten. Food must not be thrown away - especially 'untouched' items.

Either a teaching assistant or teacher supervises the children whilst they eat their snack to insist on good manners and so that each child eats enough to give them the energy they need for their learning.

A healthy snack/ lunch box might contain some of the following: • Cucumber pieces and other salad items

• Carrots are good to munch but beware of the choke hazard • Fruit slices • Dried fruit • Yoghurt in a tube • Cereal / breakfast bars (without the sugar coating!) • Pasta salads (with a spoon/fork provided) • Sandwiches (chocolate/jam may be a special treat once in a while but not Nutella or peanut butter)

Undesirables: • Processed food is not as healthy as fresh • Fruit roll ups - processed sugar! • Chips

STRICTLY PROHIBITED - UNACCEPTABLE ITEMS: • Nuts (we do have children who are severely allergic), chocolates, chocolate bars, sweets, fizzy drinks, chewing gum and drinks in glass containers are not permitted.

Manual/Technology All Year 7/8 pupils attend the Manual Centre at Ngaruawahia Primary School from 9.00 am to 3.00 pm every second Wednesday. They travel by bus and must have covered footwear. An annual fee is charged for materials.

Meetings Board of Trustees Meetings are typically held each month in the staff room (usually the second/third Tuesday). A BOT must hold 8 meetings in an academic year. These are open to the public and are advertised in the newsletter calendar.

Movement around the School. Pupils are not permitted to leave the school grounds between 9.00 am - 2.40 pm without the express permission of the Principal or Deputy Principal. Regular lunch-at-home arrangements may be made and all other occasional requests must be confirmed by note or phone call.

Note: Children do not leave unaccompanied under any circumstances. Children do not wait outside the school gates. When children are not collected they are taken to reception or and the teacher supervises the child until all arrangements have been made for collection. Teachers must ensure that children are safely collected at the end of the school day. At Horotiu we do not leave children unsupervised.

Property Lost Property “Found” clothing and other items will be stored for a reasonable period and are located in the corridor outside the Main Hall. It is regularly put out for children to peruse. Feel free to come and check it from time to time. Please remember to name all items of clothing and footwear. Note: all residual clothing is given to Charity at the end of each term.

Valuables Money and valuable/tempting items should not be left in pupils’ bags. The school accepts no responsibility for loss.

Reporting to Parents

Horotiu School adheres to the reporting requirements outlined in the National Curriculum documents and Ministry Guidelines. We provide two written reports a year, in ‘plain English’. Student achievement is reported against the National Curriculum Levels. End of Year reports are issued during the last week of the fourth term.

The reporting timetable and format is currently under review for 2018. The report will make reference and comparisons to National Curriculum Levels. The format will probably be: • February ‘informal’ meet the teacher • April Written Report • September Student Lead Conference • December Written Report • We strongly encourage parents to book strategic meetings throughout the course of the academic year. If a parent wishes to see a teacher, they should make an appointment to do so. After you have met with parents, you must keep a record of the topics discussed, attitudes, solutions agreed, for possible future reference. If you have a cause for concern about a child, discuss the matter with the Deputy Principal and together, a decision will be made as to whether parents should be called in. The Deputy Principal will speak with the parents after being briefed fully on the situation.

Safety Safety is a paramount issue. During school hours your children will be well supervised. Road safety is a real concern. Please use our designated crossing area when crossing the road (always at the office end) and be very careful when collecting or dropping off children from vehicles. A car park is adjacent to the school.

In regards to developing policy and procedure, the school and BOT maintain a rigorous cycle of review and professional learning. We would like to reiterate that all our policy and procedures have been review in collaboration with consultant Richard Clarke, Stephen Blair and align with expectations and mandates associated with: • The Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (March 2016)

• The Vulnerable Children Act 2014 • The Health and Safety at Work (Adventure Activities) Regulations 2016.

In Horotiu School:

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Safety/ Hazards register All staff is responsible for reporting any hazards relating to property and/or equipment to ensure its repaired/replaced quickly. A Hazard Reporting sheet is kept in the office and should be filled out as soon as the hazard is identified. The Principal should also be advised

School Donations From 2006 the Horotiu School Board of Trustees instigated school donations. We have endeavored to keep these realistic and similar to like-schools in our district. Our school donations are: $50.00 for one child at school, $90 for a family. There will be a 10% discount if paid by 31 March. Please note that this is a voluntary donation only.

Please be aware that funds donated to the school assist with specialist programmes, resourcing for needs groups and through the development of new initiatives.

School Hours Bell Times 9.00 am A signal for children to move to rooms and commence classes 10.30 am Morning interval 10.50 am Back to class 12.30 pm Lunch period commences 1.10 pm Afternoon classes commence 2.40 pm End of school day for pupils

Shortened lunch hours During the school year the lunch period is 12.30 to 1.10 and school finishes at 2.40. This is a permanent arrangement to facilitate bus services

School library Pupils are encouraged to use our extensive library by reading at school and taking books home. We ask that you take an interest in your child’s recreational reading by discussing their books and encouraging them to read. We do have a replacement charge for lost books. The library is also open at lunchtimes.

Special Education Services The school has strong ties with the Special Education Service which provides high quality services for the benefit of children and young people with special educational and developmental needs. These services are free and can be obtained through the school referral system. We also have referral forms for the Health Camp at Rotorua.

Sporting teams We have a number of sports teams participating in out-of-school games (after school and on Saturdays). Soccer, hockey, and inline hockey are currently catered for if there are sufficient numbers of children available. Netball, rugby league and rugby are generally played at local clubs.

Stationery Most stationery items are available for purchase from the school. A stationery list is issued at the beginning of the school year and can be ordered from Office Products Depot. www.schoolhouse.co.nz Find the link to Horotiu School, then class level.

Swimming Swimming is part of the school curriculum and an essential skill to be developed in the New Zealand context. All pupils are expected to bring appropriate costumes and towels. The pool is open out of school hours for community use. Keys are available for a fee at the school office. Supervision for under 16 year olds is compulsory. There is a school policy on “Community Use of the Pool”.

Telephone Pupils do not have GENERAL access to the phone. Staff may make calls on their behalf or allow a pupil use in special circumstances.

Use of Grounds Our facilities are available to properly constituted groups at the discretion of the BOT. Individual families may use the grounds and pool whenever they wish, provided they are considerate and responsible to other users and to equipment and buildings.

School and Outside Group Users The Community hall is available for hire and is used by a variety of community groups. School bookings during the teaching day are done in consultation with the Principal and recorded. Any School bookings outside of 9:00AM - 3:00PM must be made and cleared through the school office. It is required that all users, school or other, leave the hall in a tidy condition. A list of rules and hire conditions is available from the School Office. The School Administration Officer is the School Hall Custodian.

Visitors and Guests to the School Appropriate Time Parents wishing to observe programs in action should arrange a suitable time with the class teacher. Prior notification is required. Other visitors and guests are expected to sign the digital “Visitors Tablet” at the office. We do ask that all visitors observe the appropriate courtesies and act in accordance with the wishes of school staff and the needs of our learners. Regular visitors to classes or helpers must be police vetted to ensure the safety and well- being of all staff.

Welcome to Horotiu School. Should you have any questions, feel free to contact [email protected] or [email protected]