Information for Parents

Information relating to the School Year 2019 / 2020

INFORMATION FOR PARENTS

Admission of Pupils

Curriculum

Language Policy

Transport

Welfare

General Information Regarding the Education authority’s Policies and Arrangements

Lifelong Learning Department

INFORMATION FOR PARENTS 2019 / 2020

Published October 2018

Information for Parents

1. INTRODUCTION

This document provides information for parents about the Local Authority’s policies and arrangements in pursuance of its duty under the School Standards and Framework Act 1998, which establishes a legal framework for school admissions. Copies of these documents can be obtained free of charge from the Education Office (tel. 01248 752901 or email [email protected]), from any school maintained by the Authority, and from the County Council’s website at www.anglesey.gov.uk. Reference copies are also available at Public Libraries. Copies will be distributed free of charge to parents of pupils commencing at primary school for the first time or who are transferring from primary school to secondary school.

Complete copies of the documents relating to the information provided here, such as the Curriculum, Language Policy, Complaints Procedure and so on, are available at the Education Office (tel. 01248 752918) and Public Libraries.

In addition, handbooks are published giving information about the status, organisation and curriculum of each individual school. These documents will be distributed to parents of children who are commencing at school for the first time or who are transferring from primary to secondary school. Any other parent may, on request, obtain a copy from the appropriate school.

Although the information in this document is correct at the time of publication, there may be changes in the education service affecting the Authority’s arrangements in the year in question or subsequent years.

1.2 Education Office

The Headquarters of the Isle of Anglesey Education Office is at:

Lifelong Learning Department Council Offices LLANGEFNI Anglesey LL77 7TW

1.3 List of Schools

There are 43 primary schools, 5 secondary schools and one special school in Anglesey and they are listed by area in the appendix, p. 32 - 42.

The Authority has recognized a specific geographical area for each school, known as the catchment area. School catchment areas inform admission procedures and school transport policies but reside within a particular catchment area does not guarantee a place at the school for that catchment area.

Each list has been arranged according to secondary school catchment area. Each secondary school has been listed with the primary schools which serve its catchment area.

Information for Parents

When applying for a secondary school place, parents should be aware that it is the home address that denotes the secondary school catchment area, rather than which primary school their child attended. This affects whether school transport will be free or fee- paying to pupils.

All schools in Anglesey are co-educational day schools. All secondary schools are 11-18 community comprehensive schools. The majority of primary schools are also community schools but there is one foundation school and a small number of schools linked to the Church in Wales or the Catholic Church, some of which are controlled by the LA, with one being a Voluntary School aided by the LA. The list indicates the status of each school.

Information for Parents

2. ADMISSION OF PUPILS

The Local Authority is the admissions authority in respect of the 5 secondary schools and 41 primary schools in Anglesey. The relevant governing body is the admissions authority in respect of the one voluntary aided school (St Mary’s School, Holyhead), and the one foundation school (Ysgol Caergeiliog).

For more information and advice regarding admission arrangements:

In respect of the 5 secondary schools and 41 primary schools, contact:

Authority’s Admissions Officer: Admissions Officer Lifelong Learning Department Council Offices LLANGEFNI Anglesey LL77 7TW

Tel: (01248) 752915

In respect of St Mary’s School, Holyhead: Mr Richard Jones Headteacher St Mary’s School HOLYHEAD Anglesey LL65 1TR

Tel: (01407) 763176

In respect of Ysgol Caergeiliog: Mr Richard Williams Headteacher Ysgol Caergeiliog Foundation School CAERGEILIOG Anglesey LL65 3NP

Tel: (01407) 740619

Information for Parents

2.1 Introduction

2.1.1 The School Standards and Framework Act 1998 and related Regulations establish a legal framework for school admissions. It is the intention of the framework to establish arrangements that :  Are clear, objective and give every child a fair chance of a satisfactory school place;  Give full information for an informed choice;  Ensure local admission procedures which are well co-ordinated and easy to follow with minimum bureaucracy and which give parents the opportunity of having their school preference met;  Give an effective statutory right of appeal if parents are dissatisfied.

2.1.2 In accordance with Section 84 of the 1998 Act (as amended by Section 40 of the Education & Inspections Act 2006), the Welsh Government has published a School Admissions Code which gives guidelines to admission authorities in respect of undertaking their admissions functions in respect of admissions from July 2013. The Anglesey Schools Admissions Policy is based on this Code.

2.1.3 The Anglesey primary and secondary schools admissions policy complies with the requirements of the Equality Act 2010, the Human Rights Act 1998, and the Rights of the Children & Young Persons (Wales) Measure 2011, and does not discriminate on the grounds of disability; gender reassignment; pregnancy and maternity; race; religion or belief; sex or sexual orientation against a person in the arrangements and decisions it makes as to who is offered admission as a pupil.

2.1.4 Pupils with statements of Special Educational Needs (SEN) must be admitted to the school named on their statement. Applications for admission in respect of children with SEN but without statements will be considered on the same basis as other applicants.

2.1.5 In accordance with the School Admissions Code this booklet publishes information regarding admission arrangements in respect of the relevant age group for every mainstream maintained primary and secondary school in Anglesey. The relevant age group is the age at which pupils are normally admitted to school, i.e.

PRIMARY – the September following the 4th birthday (this is the relevant age even for the primary schools which provide part time nursery education from the September following the 3rd birthday).

NOTE: The Law does not require a child to start school full time until the beginning of the term following the child’s 5th birthday.

SECONDARY – the September following the 11th birthday.

2.1.6 Admission regulations in accordance with the School Standards and Framework Act 1998 refer to full time admission in the September following the 4th birthday and legally do not apply to part time admission in the September following the 3rd birthday.

Information for Parents

2.1.7 Nursery Education All children have the statutory right to nursery education, funded by the local authority, from the beginning of term following their 3rd birthday. The Isle of Anglesey Early Years Development Plan provides part time nursery education from the beginning of the term following the 3rd birthday. This nursery education is free, for at least 2 hours a day. Provision from the beginning of term following the 3rd birthday to the September following the 3rd birthday is in the Voluntary Sector whilst the provision from the September following the 3rd birthday is in a maintained school in some areas and in the Voluntary Sector in other areas. There are currently 38 primary schools in Anglesey that offer part time nursery education. Appendix 3 (p. 43 - 44) lists the maintained schools and the voluntary nursery groups recognised by the Early Years Partnership which provide part time nursery education.

Anglesey County Council are also responsible for administrating the Welsh Government’s 30 hour childcare offer. Details of providers that offer these 30 hours are made available by contacting the Council’s information site i.e. Teulu Môn on 01248 725888 or via email to [email protected]. Gwynedd and Anglesey’s Childcare Team can also be contacted on 01248 352436 or via email to [email protected]. Information regarding the offer itself including a specific criteria and an application form is available on the Council’s website: http://www.anglesey.gov.uk/community/children-and-families/childcare-offer-3-and-4- year-old-government-funded-childcare?redirect=false

It should be noted that:  Nursery places in primary schools will be allocated in accordance with the LA’s admissions and oversubscriptions criteria (see 3.8.1)  attending nursery class in a school, or attending the local voluntary nursery group, does not guarantee a place in the Reception class (see 2.2.3)

2.1.8 The Isle of Anglesey County Council has established an Admissions Forum to facilitate consultation and discussions regarding matters relating to admission arrangements. Headteachers, governing bodies, the LA, agencies that support pupils with special educational needs and diocesan education authorities are represented on the Forum. The Forum develops local consensus and will also ensure that admission arrangements give due regard to other related issues such as planning school places, making provision for children with special needs, changes in admission numbers (AN), catchment areas etc.

Information for Parents

2.2 Timetable for submitting applications for admission to schools in Anglesey 2.2.1 In accordance with the School Admissions Code, which stipulates that parents are to be given at least 6 weeks in which to submit their application for school admission, parents should ensure that their applications for admission to maintained primary and secondary schools in Anglesey are submitted to the Lifelong Learning Department in accordance with the timetable below.

Admission to: Application forms Closing date for receipt of Date available applications in the Lifelong parents will Learning Department be notified

Secondary (Year 7) End of October 2018 21/12/18 01/03/19

Primary – End of October 2018 01/02/19 16/04/19 Reception Class Primary – Nursery End of October 2018 01/02/19 16/04/19 Class

2.2.2 Application forms are available from primary schools, Lifelong Learning Department or the Council’s website.

2.2.3 It should be noted that an application for admission into the Reception class must be made on behalf of children who are currently attending a nursery class in the school or the local playgroup.

2.2.4 The Authority will allocate places in accordance with the Admissions & Oversubscriptions Criteria as soon as possible after the closing date.

2.2.5 Every parent who has applied for admission will be notified by the date specified above whether their child has been admitted to the preferred school or not.

2.2.6 Parents whose child has not been admitted to their preferred school will be invited to select an alternative school, unless they have already done so, and will be informed of their right of appeal against the admission authority’s decision (see section 3).

2.2.7 The right to appeal does not apply to admissions to the nursery class.

2.2.8 It is essential that pupils who wish to attend the catchment area school (primary and secondary pupils) apply to do so since parents who have applied to a particular school will be given priority over those who have not applied.

2.2.9 Late applications will not be considered until places have been allocated to those pupils whose applications were submitted by the closing date.

2.2.10 Applications submitted after the closing date will be considered as and when they are received in the Lifelong Learning Department.

2.2.11 It should be noted that submitting an application by the closing date does not guarantee a place in the preferred school.

Information for Parents

2.2.12 Parents who wish to make an application for admission to either St Mary’s School or Ysgol Caergeiliog Foundation School must submit their application to the relevant Headteacher as follows (please refer to 3.10 and 3.11 respectively for details of these schools’ oversubscriptions and admissions criteria):

St Mary’s School: by 1st February Ysgol Caergeiliog Foundation School: by 1st March

Parents will be informed by the school whether their application has been successful or not.

2.2.13 Parents who wish to apply for admission to a school outside Anglesey should contact the relevant Local Authority’s Education Department for further information.

2.2.14 When a parent gives fraudulent or intentionally misleading information in order to obtain a place at a school for their child, the Authority reserves the right to withdraw the offer of a place. Where a place is withdrawn, the application may be resubmitted and if refused, the parent is entitled to appeal against the decision.

2.3 Transfer and Movement of Children Parents wishing to transfer their child from one school to another other than at the normal transfer age, or when the family moves to a new address, should make an application in writing to the Head of Lifelong Learning. The Authority’s admissions policy and the appeals procedure referred to in Section 3 will also apply to decisions in this section. Parents are strongly advised not to transfer their child during the school year in order to avoid interrupting their school courses.

2.4 Extra-District Pupils Applications in respect of children not residing in the county for admission to a school maintained by the Authority should be made in writing to the Isle of Anglesey County Council’s Head of Lifelong Learning.

3 ADMISSIONS & OVERSUBSCRIPTIONS CRITERIA

3.1 Full Time admission to Reception Class - Pupils are normally admitted to Anglesey’s primary schools in the September following the 4th birthday. The only exceptions to admissions following the 4th birthday will be in special cases where the Authority is of the view that not to allow early admission would severely hinder the pupil’s social and/or educational development in the context of the 1989 Children’s Act or the Child Protection Register. For school admission purposes a child’s home address will decide which is the catchment area school in the primary and secondary sector. Also refer to section 6 for admission criteria pertaining to free school transport according to catchment area.

3.2 Admissions to Secondary School - Pupils are usually admitted to the Authority’s secondary schools in the September following the 11th birthday. The only exceptions to admission in the September following the 11th birthday will be in special cases where the Authority is of the view that a pupil’s social and/or educational development would be severely hindered by not transferring to secondary school 12 months earlier than the normal admission age or by not remaining in the primary school for 12 months later than the normal transfer age.

Information for Parents

3.3 The 1998 Act confirms the requirement to have an admission number (AN) for every school. Every school has an AN in respect of the age at which pupils are normally admitted. Before determining or changing a school’s AN, the admission authority will consult the relevant governing body/authority and, by means of the Admissions Forum, the partners. The AN for all Anglesey schools is shown in the appendices (p 32 - 42).

3.4 Each school’s AN is calculated by using the capacity assessment method as set out in the Welsh Government’s circular “Measuring the Capacity of Schools in Wales”.

3.5 Once an admission number has been set the admission authority must respect that number. Pupils will not be admitted above the admission number unless exceptional circumstances apply and the Authority is satisfied that admission under such circumstances would not prejudice efficient education and efficient use of resources.

3.6 Admission authorities are required to keep admission numbers under review and if it is proposed to change the number this will be the subject of consultation.

3.7 If the number of applications for admission to any year group at a school is less than the AN of that school, the admission authority will admit all pupils who have applied for admission.

3.8 If the number of applications for admission to any year group at a school is more than the AN of that school, pupils will be admitted up to the AN in accordance with the following criteria, the Authority being satisfied that the reasons given by the parents in expressing their preference to educate their child at the school satisfies one of the following criteria which are listed in order of priority:

3.8.1 Nursery classes 1. Looked after children and previously looked after children. 2. Pupils recommended for placement at the school with regard to their medical or psychological needs. Such placements must be confirmed by the LA’s professional advisers, e.g. Chief Educational Psychologist or Senior Medical Officer of Health. 3. Pupils who live within the catchment area of the school who have a brother or sister already attending the school and who will still be on the school roll when the child is due to start. 4. Pupils who live within the catchment area of the school. 5. Pupils who live outside the catchment area who have a brother or sister already attending the school 6. Pupils who live outside the catchment area.

 In a tie-break situation within any of the criteria the Authority will give priority to pupils whose home is nearest the school via the shortest appropriate walking route which will be measured using Google Maps. If there is any doubt then a Council Officer will physically measure the distance.

 Where a pupil has been refused admission the Admission Authority will, in accordance with this policy, use its best endeavours to explain its decision in writing and to discuss the options that are available to parents in order to secure suitable education for their children.

Information for Parents  Brothers and/or sisters include full, half, step, adopted or fostered brother or sister living in the same household.

 For the purpose of admissions a child’s home address is the address where he/she spends the majority of the school week. Parents should ensure that they notify the Lifelong Learning Department of any changes of address before and after the closing date. The Authority may withdraw the offer of a place if it is found that a false address has been given.

 In cases of applications for twins or multiple birth children where the Authority is unable to offer all the places required, parents may accept the places that have been offered and accept places at another school for the remaining child(ren). The child(ren) will be added to the waiting list which will remain until 30th September.

3.8.2 Reception Classes 1. Looked after children and previously looked after children. 2. Pupils recommended for placement at the school with regard to their medical or psychological needs. Such placements must be confirmed by the LA’s professional advisers, e.g. Chief Educational Psychologist or Senior Medical Officer of Health. 3. Pupils who live within the catchment area of the school who have a brother or sister already attending the school and who will still be on the school roll when the child is due to start. 4. Pupils who live within the catchment area of the school. 5. Pupils who live outside the catchment area who have a brother or sister already attending he school and who will still be on the school roll when the child is due to start. 6. Pupils who live outside the catchment area.

 Brothers and/or sisters include full, half, step, adopted or fostered brother or sister living in the same household.

Information for Parents 3.8.3 Secondary School 1. Looked after children and previously looked after children. 2. Pupils recommended for placement at the school with regard to their medical or psychological needs. Such placements must be confirmed by the LA’s professional advisers, e.g. Chief Educational Psychologist or Senior Medical Officer of Health. 3. Pupils who live within the catchment area of the school who have a brother or sister already attending the school and who will still be on the school roll (i.e. in years 7-11) when the child is due to start. 4. Pupils who live within the catchment area of the school. 5. Pupils who live outside the catchment area who have a brother or sister already attending the school and who will still be on the school roll (i.e. in years 7-11) when the child is due to start. 6. Pupils who do not live within the school’s catchment area but who have attended a primary school which is in the school’s catchment area. 7. Pupils who live outside the catchment area.

 Brothers and/or sisters include full, half, step, adopted or fostered brother or sister living in the same household.

3.9 Admissions and Oversubscriptions Criteria during the school year The admissions and oversubscriptions criteria for nursery, reception and secondary schools, as detailed above, will apply to any applications to transfer between schools during the school year.

3.10 St Mary’s Catholic School, Holyhead St Mary’s Catholic School, Holyhead, is a Voluntary Aided Catholic School and, as such, in accordance with paragraph 2.42 of the Welsh Government’s School Admissions Code and the relevant legislation, gives priority to members of the Catholic faith. If the school is named in a statement of Special Educational Needs, the Governing Body has a duty to admit the child to the school. Where the number of applications

Information for Parents

exceeds the number of places available the Governing Body will apply the following over-subscription criteria. Applications for admission to the nursery and reception classes must be submitted by 1st February.

Note: Children in Public Care (Looked After Children) take priority in each category.

1 Baptised Catholic children who are in public care (looked after children). Proof of birth date in the form of a Birth Certificate and proof of Baptism in the form of Baptismal Certificate is required. 2 Baptised Catholic children within the parishes which the school serves. Proof of birth date in the form of a Birth Certificate and proof of Baptism in the form of Baptismal Certificate is required. 3 Baptised Catholic children whose medical, educational or pastoral needs can be appropriately met by this school. 4 Children who have a brother or a sister at the school at the time of likely admission. 5 Children of other Christian Denominations. It would be necessary for such parents to have expressed a genuine desire for them to be educated in a Catholic School and to be fully supportive of its Catholic ethos. Such applications would need to be supported, in writing, by a proof of birth date in the form of a Birth Certificate and proof of Baptism in the form of Baptismal Certificate is required. 6 Children of other faiths whose parents demonstrate a commitment to the ethos of the school. 7 Children for whom the LEA has specifically asked for a place at the school.

In the event of any over-subscription in the number of applications made under any of the categories above, then the Admissions Committee will offer places first to children living nearest to the school by the shortest walking distance using public highways.

If an application for admission has been turned down by the Governing Body, parents can appeal to an Independent Appeals Panel. This appeal must be sent in writing to the clerk to the Governors at the school within 14 days (10 working days) of refusal. Parents must give reasons for appealing in writing and the decision of the Appeals Panel is binding on the Governors. Where more than one family is appealing, priority will be given to children from Catholic Families

3.11 Ysgol Caergeiliog Foundation School 3.11.1 Nursery Unit

Children may be accepted to the Nursery Unit at the beginning of the term following their 3rd birthday. All admissions are subject to availability of places.

Parents are requested to complete a ‘Pupil Registration – Application Form’ for their child. Prospective parents are also invited to contact the School for an appointment with the Registrar who will arrange a tour of the school and discuss School Policies.

Parents will be informed in writing whether or not a place can be offered for their child at the Unit.

Information for Parents

In cases of over-subscription the following criteria will be implemented: 1. Sibling links. 2. Pupils whose home is nearest to the School. 3. Access by public transport.

In instances where places are not available, parents are asked to inform the School whether they wish their child’s name to be placed on the Unit’s Waiting List for Places.

3.11.2 Infant and Junior Department Children may be accepted to the School full time for Compulsory Education at the beginning of the term following their fourth birthday. All Admissions are subject to availability of places. Parents will be informed in writing as to whether or not a place can be offered for their child at the school. In accordance with the 1998 Education Act, the School has an Admission number. If the number of applications for admission is less than the admission number, the school will admit all pupils who have applied for admission.

If the number of applications is more than the School’s Admission Number, pupils will be admitted up to the admission number in accordance with the following criteria:

1. Pupils recommended for placement at the School for exceptional medical or social reasons. In such cases, confirmation would be requested from professional advisers. 2. Sibling links. 3. Distance from the School, with priority given to pupils whose home is nearest to the School via the nearest route from home to school. 4. Access by public transport.

Where a pupil has been refused admission, the School will explain this decision in writing and will discuss all the options that are available to parents.

3.12 WAITING LIST The relevant admission authority will maintain a waiting list of applicants who have been refused admission to the preferred school but if a place does subsequently become available at the school, children will be admitted from the waiting list to take up any places in line with the over- subscription criteria. Priority will not be based on the date the application was added to the list. In instances where admission is refused parents are asked to inform the appropriate admission authority in writing whether they wish their child’s name to be placed on the school’s Waiting List for Places.The LA will maintain a waiting list until the 30th September in the year of entry to school.

3.13 APPEALS ARRANGEMENTS – PRIMARY AND SECONDARY

3.13.1 Parents wishing to appeal against the Admission Authority’s decision to refuse admission to the preferred school will be required to submit the appeal to the appropriate admission authority within 15 working days of being informed of the decision to refuse admission. With regard to appeals against a decision to refuse admission to St. Mary’s School, parents are requested to submit the appeal to the school’s Governing Body within 10 working days of being informed of the decision.

Information for Parents

3.13.2 All admission appeals will be heard by independent Appeals Panels. If the Panel finds for the parents such a decision is binding on the authority. The Panel will meet within 30 school days of the appeal being lodged and parents will be informed of the decision of the Panel within 5 working days after the Panel has met to consider the appeal. The Appeals Panel will be considering all appeals against the decision of admission authorities whether it is the LA or the governing body.

3.13.3 If a parent whose appeal has been heard believes that the Panel acted improperly or unreasonably in handling a case, the parent may make a complaint for investigation to the Commissioner for Local Administration (the Local Government Ombudsman) or seek judicial review. The Welsh Government has no power to consider complaints against the decision of independent appeals panels.

3.13.4 The appeals procedures do not apply to part time nursery admissions.

3.14 ADMISSION TO 6th FORMS Admission to a secondary school 6th form to follow level 3 courses within the National Qualification Framework (e.g. Advanced Subsidiary (AS) and A Level) is dependent upon obtaining A*-C grades in at least 5 GCSE subjects. Further details are available in individual schools’ year 12/13 (i.e. 6th form) handbook, available from the school.

Information for Parents 4. CURRICULUM The general aims of the Authority’s educational system may be summarised as follows : The provision of education of the highest possible quality for all pupils/students, in accordance with their age, ability and interest/aptitude, so that they become rounded personalities, develop and use all their talents and equip themselves to be responsible members of a bilingual community.

County curriculum policies, primary and secondary, have been outlined and copies are available from the Education Authority. Schools are implementing the Foundation Phase and the 2008 Curriculum which includes securing a balance between the various subjects.

4.1 Secondary Schools’ curriculum for 14-18 year olds is based upon the 2008 Curriculum and the 14-19 Learning Pathways. By offering an effective programme of personal and social education, and an opportunity to follow a programme of pre-vocational and vocational courses, schools not only support and strengthen the introduction of the curriculum but also ensure that young people have the knowledge, skills and qualifications required by them in a technological society which is part of the economy of Europe and the world.

4.2 Careers and the World of Work Schools should provide opportunities, where appropriate, for learners aged 11-19 to develop their awareness of careers and the world of work and how their studies contribute to their readiness for a working life. Schools offer opportunities for work experience to pupils in KS4 and KS5.

4.3 Careers Wales Careers Wales provides free, impartial careers information and support to help people plan their next step, whether they are in school, further education, training, work, or looking for work. Phone - 0800 028 48 44 Textphone – 029 2090 6800 Email - [email protected] Webchat is available on our website - careerswales.com

4.4 Pupils’ Progress Each secondary school provides a progress file for pupils at 16 years of age. In addition to the results of external examinations the record includes reference to personal qualities, general skills and the activities in which the pupil has been involved both within school and the community.

4.5 Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE) In accordance with the requirements of the 1996 Education Act it is the duty of every Education Authority to set up a SACRE to advise upon matters connected with worship in schools and the Religious Education provided in accordance with an agreed syllabus. The SACRE was established in 1989 and copies of the annual reports are available from the Education Office and Libraries.

4.6 Complaints Procedure The Local Authority has established a procedure to consider complaints concerning the way school Governing Bodies and the Education Authorities act in relation to the schools curriculum and other related matters. This procedure is outlined in a document which is available at all the Authority’s schools, the Education Office and at Public Libraries within the county. A copy will be provided free of charge as required to any parent seeking to

Information for Parents make a complaint under these arrangements and the Authority can, if necessary, provide a copy in a language other than Welsh or English.

It is emphasized, however, that complaints should be directed to the Headteacher or other staff in the school in the first instance. This is the first reasonable step and, unless the circumstances are most exceptional, the Education Authority and Governing Bodies would expect this step to have been completed before presenting the complaint formally. Parents should request a copy of the School’s Complaints Policy. Similarly with complaints regarding the Education Authority’s actions, parents who wish to make a complaint should discuss the complaint in an informal way in the first instance with the appropriate officers of the Authority.

4.7 Charging for Educational Activities Individual schools have a policy on Charging for School Activities based on Sections 449- 462 of the Education Act 1996 and following Welsh Government non-statutory guidance for Governing Bodies, 4 April 2010.

4.8 Public Examinations It is the responsibility of the Governors, in accordance with the advice of the Headteachers and in consultation with parents, to arrange to enter pupils for external examinations. The schools’ Handbooks contain a list of the examinations offered and information concerning results. The Governors will have a policy concerning charging for re-sitting examinations. Further details are available from Headteachers.

4.9 Additional Learning Needs Provision The Education Authority adopted a series of principles to guide its activities in this field, namely:  Ensure equal opportunities, curricularly and socially for children and young people with additional learning needs.  Ensure Whole-Education Authority and Whole-School response to additional learning needs.  Educate pupils with ALN in mainstream schools where possible.  Provide education within the County where possible. Placement in non-maintained special schools and independent schools in Anglesey, or in out of county establishments, are limited to cases where it is not possible to provide appropriately for the pupil’s particular needs within the Authority’s maintained schools.  Work together effectively with statutory agencies and voluntary organisations relevant to the field.  Establish a working relationship with parents and voluntary bodies that represent them. Independent information and support service is provided for the parents of children and young people with additional learning needs from SNAP Wales (telephone – 0808 801 0608/02920 348 990, website -www.snapcymru.org)

Special provisions  Canolfan Addysg Y Bont - a special school in Llangefni that is maintained by the Authority for 3-19 year old pupils with severe learning difficulties and complex needs. The school provides an outreach support service to the mainstream schools. Pupils placed in a special school are usually subject to a statement of SEN.  Early years assessment unit (ABC Unit) for pupils under 5 with additional needs.  Specialist placements are provided for a small number of pupils with ALN whose needs cannot be met in mainstream or local special schools.

Information for Parents  The Education Authority’s actions in the area is based on the 1996 Education Act and the document “Wales’ Special Educational Needs Code of Practice 2002”.Through the Code of Practice the duties of mainstream schools and the Education Authority centrally are defined clearly, establishing a system based on periods of increasing intervention. It is the schools’ responsibility entirely through their decentralized budgets to provide appropriate provision for ‘School’ and ‘School Plus’ pupils. The Authority has a statutory responsibility to assess pupils’ needs with complex and intense needs and to provide additional resources for them where needed in accordance with the Education Authority’s assessment criteria.

Responsibility of Mainstream Schools Schools are expected to provide for pupils on ALN Stages “School Action” and “School Action Plus” (about 18% of the school population) of the “SEN Code of Practice 2002”.

They should ensure that clear channels exist for recognising and referring pupils with special education needs and informing teachers about them. Schools should keep parents fully informed of any concerns regarding their child’s progress and of any steps taken to assess and meet any additional needs that are identified. Parents should be consulted regarding provision and be fully informed of any decisions taken at review.

It is a statutory requirement to establish a special educational needs policy and report annually to parents on its operation.

It is also necessary to ensure that a special educational coordinator is available to oversee the action of the special needs policy from day to day.

The Responsibility of the Education Authority The Education Authority has a role of strategic planning and monitoring of the provision. It has a duty, with some provisos, to teach children with special educational needs in mainstream schools.

It is necessary to provide advice, such as psychological advice, to schools concerning children on SEN stage “School Action Plus”.

When a statement is maintained, additional learning needs provision is usually in mainstream school, or for a very small minority of pupils, placement in a special school or specialist facility. Progress is reviewed annually and from 14 years of age a transitional plan is drawn up to prepare the pupil for leaving school. The Authority also makes increasing use of Individual Development Plans in order to provide together with the use of Planning Methods that focus on the individual.

Schools are expected to provide appropriately for pupils with a wide range of additional needs. Amongst these groups there are more able and talented pupils and pupils who are in local authority care and those who learn English as an Additional Language.

4.9.1 The Additional Learning Needs and Inclusion Service A team of educational Psychologists and Specialist Teachers are employed together with Gwynedd Council. The main duties of the Service are based on the needs of the individual children. They include assessing the barriers to learning and giving advice to teachers and parents on how they can be overcome, as well as supporting children directly. Children are normally referred to the Service by Headteachers following discussion with parents but others, including parents themselves, can contact an educational psychologist through the Education Office. 18

Information for Parents

4.10 The Education Welfare Service The above service is provided by the Lifelong Learning Department and it is considered by the Authority to be an essential support service not only to pupils but also to the county’s schools.

The aim of the service is to reduce the barriers that prevent children from accessing education by offering advice or practical assistance.

Emphasis is placed upon cases dealing with the following:

(i) attendance of children in schools, which includes the administration of Fixed Penalty Notices and criminal proceedings (ii) child protection (iii) children with special needs (iv) supervise the arrangements in respect of the employment of children.

Usually schools refer cases to the Service but children and families can contact the Education Welfare Officer directly in the Education Office (see 1.2). Tuition, either individually in the home or in small groups, is provided for pupils who are unable to attend school for prolonged periods due to medical or social, emotional and behavioural barriers.

4.11 School Counselling Service A counselling service is provided for pupils in the Authority’s secondary schools. The service also accepts referrals from the primary sector for pupils in year 6, in some circumstances.

Information for Parents 5. LANGUAGE POLICY

General Aims The Authority operates a bilingual policy in all schools within the county. The aim is to develop the ability of pupils and students within the county to be confidently bilingual in order that they can be full members of the bilingual society of which they are part. All educational establishments within the county reflect and reinforce the language policy in their administration, their social life and pastoral arrangements as well as their academic provision.

SPECIFIC AIMS

Nursery Education To ensure, through sensitively structured provision and organisation, that each child receives a firm foundation in Welsh in order to enable him/her in due course to attain the aim of full bilingualism.

Infants To build on the Welsh Language foundations laid through nursery education, and develop the bilingual skills of all pupils.

Junior To consolidate and develop each child’s Welsh and English capabilities in all aspects, both active and receptive, so as to ensure that he/she can speak, read and write fluently and confidently in both languages on transferring to the secondary school. (Special provision will be made for junior latecomers).

SECONDARY Welsh and English To ensure that each pupil in the secondary school studies Welsh and English as subjects up to the end of year 11, and sit appropriate external examinations in both languages. The Medium of Instruction Each pupil will use both languages as a medium of learning to varying degrees according to need, in order to ensure progression of bilingual skills throughout their school career. To ensure that pupils are able to sit external examinations in Welsh or English or bilingually according to the linguistic nature of the teaching in the various subjects. (Special provision will be made for latecomers).

Language Charter Every school within the authority has adopted, and resolved, to implement the principles of the ‘Welsh Language Charter’, that assists pupils to learn and use the language fluently so that they become totally bilingual adults by the end of their school career. The Charter’s aim is to ensure that all pupils who receive their education in our schools become confident in their ability to use the language every day and develop into full bilingual citizens who can choose to live and work in Welsh if they so wish. The structure of the Charter in schools places great emphasis on developing the pupil’s informal language by providing full and varied opportunities for them to use Welsh in their educational and social activities. One of the Charters strengths is that pupils are required to work together with the staff, parents, Governors and the wider community to provide wide opportunities, and varied activities, through the medium of Welsh in which the pupils can be part and put the language to work. In general, the Schools Councils lead this work and there is evidence that the system already raises pupils’ confidence to speak the language across the islands schools. 20

Information for Parents 6. SCHOOL TRANSPORT Anglesey LA has a duty to provide travel assistance in accordance with the Learner Travel (Wales) measure 2008. This list is not exhaustive and the LA must consider each pupil's individual case on its merits, taking into account any representation made. The methods used by the LA to discharge this obligation are set out in their policy document. It is for the LA to determine the means of travel between home and school.

6.1 The LA provides free school transport for full time pupils aged 4-16 years as follows: (i) for primary school pupils residing 2 miles or more from the school in whose catchment area they reside; (ii) for secondary school pupils residing 3 miles or more from the school in whose catchment area they reside (with the exception of 6th form pupils / further education students (see 6.3 below); (iii) for pupils whose special educational needs, medical condition or other individual circumstances, in the opinion of the LA, make free transport necessary - (evidence will be required) (iv) For pupils who do not qualify for transport under (i), (ii) or (iii) above but who travel to school along a route that is considered to be exceptionally hazardous or under other exceptional circumstances; (v) For pupils who attend a school which is not their catchment area school if that is the nearest school to the home, and if the distance from home to the school is 2 miles or more for pupils of primary school age or 3 miles or more for pupils of secondary school age. Except for those children in (iii) above it is expected for a child to travel up to 2 miles to meet any transport provided.

6.2 Primary school pupils living within 2 miles of school and Secondary School Pupils living within 3 miles of school Under Section 32 of the 1980 Transport Act (which enables LAs to use school transport for fare-paying passengers), pupils who live less than 2 miles (primary) and 3 miles (secondary) from the catchment area school, and are therefore not entitled to free transport may, conditionally, take advantage of any available spare seating capacity on the LAs contract vehicles on payment of a fee. This arrangement is not available to pupils who have the use of public transport.

6.3 6th Form Pupils / Further Education Students aged 16-19 years Transport may be available to the school or nearest appropriate further education college for a fee.

6.4 Out of Catchment School Pupils Pupils who are granted permission to attend a school other than the school serving the catchment area in which they reside are normally required to make their own transport arrangements and to meet the cost involved. The LA will consider applications in respect of such pupils for permission to take up vacant seats on school contract vehicles, for a fee.

6.5 School Transport Behaviour Code (all pupils) Parents should be aware that school buses may be fitted with CCTV cameras and operated in accordance with current legislation. All pupils are expected to conform to the requirements of this code. The safety of all pupils is dependent on the standard of behaviour on school transport. if a pupil persistently misbehaves on school transport the LA reserves the right to withdraw the transport provision. 21

Information for Parents

6.6 Pupils who change address Financial assistance may be given towards travelling cost or arrangements, as listed below, for pupils who move to live into a different catchment area during an examination course (GCSE) and who wish to remain at his/her school until completion of that course. (i) That pupils receive repayment up to a maximum of the equivalent of 20 miles daily at public transport rates. (ii) That pupils are allowed to travel free when the Authority is able to provide transport at no extra cost. (iii) That the arrangements are for the duration of the course only and where the distances travelled are reasonable. (iv) That payments are made at the end of term based on the number of days the pupil is registered as present on the school register.

Following the completion of the course, it is expected that the pupil attend the school that serves the area of his/her new home.

6.7 Transport is not provided for part time nursery pupils.

6.8 Enquiries regarding any matter relating to the provision of school transport should be made to the Transport Officer in the Highways Department (tel: 01248 752458).

*In relation to charges for the relevant academic year correspondence will be shared via the schools.

6.9 Applying for School Transport Application forms for bus passes can also be obtained from the school or via the Authority’s website www.ynysmon.gov.uk. Applications for taxi transport should be made through the school.

7. WELFARE

7.1 School Meals The School meals service should be an integral part of the school day representing an educational and social occasion providing opportunities for learning experiences that reinforce messages about food and healthy eating, aiming to provide high quality, healthy sustainable food, seasonal locally sourced produce, and adopting a whole school approach to healthy eating ensuring full compliance with Welsh Government “Appetite for Life” standards. There is a two course menu available for a staple price for Primary schools. In Secondary schools a choice is given of a two course meal or a snack and first course or pudding.

7.2 A school meal is available to all pupils other than part-time nursery pupils.

7.3 Free School Meals Free school meals are available to all children from families who are in receipt of the following benefits:  Employment and Support Allowance (income based)  Income Support  Job Seekers Allowance (income based)  Child Tax Credit (with annual taxable income not exceeding £16,190)  Pension Credit (Guarantee) 22

Information for Parents

 Help under Immigration and Asylum Seekers Act 1999.  Universal Credit (please note that it is possible that there will be an earnings cap for those on Universal Credit. This will mean that those who earn more wages than the cap whilst receiving Universal Credit are not eligible. At the time of publishing the full details are not known. Please contact the Housing Benefit office for further information).

Families in receipt of Working Tax Credit are not eligible for free school meals even if their annual taxable income is less than £16, 190.

Application forms for Free School Meals are currently available on the Council’s website - http://www.anglesey.gov.uk/education/schools/school- meals/free-school-meals, from the Revenue and Benefits Section or the school.

7.4 Pupils bringing packed lunch Provision is made at school for pupils who choose to bring their own food. They are provided with beakers, plates and drinking water.

7.5 Milk 189ml of milk is provided daily, free of charge to: (i) pupils under the age of 7. (ii) pupils in Special Schools. (iii) any pupil of primary age who requires milk on medical grounds and in respect of whom a certificate has been submitted by the School Medical Officer.

7.6 School uniform grant The Local Authority operates a scheme which provides a grant towards the cost of purchasing school uniform, equipment, sports kit and kit for activities outside of school for their child. Examples of what this grant can be used for include:  School uniform including coats and shoes;  School sports kit including footwear;  Uniform for enrichment activities, including but not limited to, scouts; guides; cadets; martial arts; sports; performing arts or dance;  Equipment e.g. school bags and stationery;  Specialist equipment where new curriculum activities begin such as design and technology; and  Equipment for out of school hour’s trips such as outdoor learning e.g. waterproofs.

The grant is available to pupils who are eligible for free school meals or are looked after entering:  reception class of maintained primary schools in September 2019;  year 7 of maintained secondary schools in September 2019; or  pupils in special schools, special needs resource bases and pupil referral units who are aged 4 or aged 11 in September 2019.

Presently, the one-off grant is valued at £125.00, and is administered by the Council’s Revenue and Benefits Section, and will be paid directly into your bank account (BACS). The details of the award for 2019/20 has not been published yet.

Information for Parents

7.7 Education Maintenance Allowance Pupils from low-income families who wish to remain in school beyond the statutory school leaving age (16 years old) may be able to claim the Welsh Government’s Education Maintenance Allowance. For further information please contact your child’s secondary school, EMA Wales Helpline on 0300 2004050, or visit the EMA Wales website at www.studentfinancewales.co.uk.

Information for Parents

APPENDIX I

SECONDARY SCHOOLS

SCHOOL: Ysgol Syr Thomas Jones HEADTEACHER: Mr Aaron Bayley, BSc ADDRESS: Amlwch, Ynys Môn LL68 9TH TELEPHONE: 01407 830287 E-MAIL: [email protected] STATUS: C AGE RANGE: 11 - 18 STANDARD NUMBER: 184 ADMISSION NUMBER: 184 CAPACITY 971 LANGUAGE CATEGORY: Bilingual

SEPTEMBER 2018 ADMISSIONS

Applications 107 Number admitted to year 7 107

Number admitted following appeal None

Total Pupils 509

September 2019 forecast It is not anticipated that the number of applications for admission in September 2019 will be higher than the Admission Number

Catchment area primary schools

Ysgol Gynradd Amlwch Ysgol Gynradd Cemaes

Ysgol Gymuned Carreglefn Ysgol Gymuned Moelfre

Ysgol Gymuned Llanfechell Ysgol Gynradd Penysarn Ysgol Goronwy Owen, Benllech Ysgol Gymuned Rhosybol Parc/Llandyfrydog area of Ysgol Gymuned Llannerch-y-medd catchment area

For further information regarding the borders, visit the Council’s website and search for ‘MapMôn’ www.anglesey.gov.uk

SCHOOL: Ysgol Uwchradd Caergybi HEADTEACHER: Mr Adam Williams, BA ADDRESS: Caergybi, Ynys Môn LL65 1NP E-MAIL: [email protected] STATUS: C AGE RANGE: 11 - 18 STANDARD NUMBER: 179 ADMISSION NUMBER: 179 CAPACITY: 1170 LANGUAGE CATEGORY: English (with significant Welsh)

SEPTEMBER 2018 ADMISSIONS

Applications 145 Number admitted to year 7 145

Number admitted following appeal None

Total Pupils 830

September 2019 forecast It is not anticipated that the number of applications for admission in September 2019 will be higher than the Admission Number

Catchment area primary schools

Ysgol Cybi Ysgol Rhoscolyn

Ysgol Gynradd Rhosneigr Ysgol Gymuned Y Fali

Ysgol Llanfawr Ysgol Kingsland

Ysgol Y Tywyn Ysgol Caergeiliog Foundation School

St Mary’s School

For further information regarding the borders, visit the Council’s website and search for ‘MapMôn’ www.anglesey.gov.uk

SCHOOL: Ysgol Gyfun Llangefni HEADTEACHER: Mr Clive Thomas, M.Chem ADDRESS: Llangefni, Ynys Môn, LL77 7NG TELEPHONE: 01248 723441 E-MAIL: [email protected] STATUS: C AGE RANGE: 11 - 18 STANDARD NUMBER: 169 ADMISSION NUMBER: 169 CAPACITY 896 LANGUAGE CATEGORY: Bilingual

SEPTEMBER 2018 ADMISSIONS

Applications 95

Number admitted to year 7 95

Number admitted following appeal None

Total Pupils 639

September 2019 forecast It is not anticipated that the number of applications for admission in September 2019 will be higher than the Admission Number

Catchment area primary schools

Ysgol Gymuned Bodffordd Ysgol Gynradd Llangaffo *Ysgol Gymuned Dwyran Ysgol Esceifiog, Gaerwen Ysgol Gynradd Llanbedrgoch Ysgol Henblas, Llangristiolus Ysgol Y Graig Ysgol Gynradd Niwbwrch Ysgol Gynradd Talwrn Ysgol Corn Hir, Llangefni

*Ysgol Dwyran is in the catchment area of Ysgol Gyfun Llangefni and Ysgol David Hughes.

For further information regarding the borders, visit the Council’s website and search for ‘MapMôn’ www.anglesey.gov.uk

SCHOOL: Ysgol David Hughes HEADTEACHER: Mr H. Emyr Williams, BSc, M.Add ADDRESS: Porthaethwy, Ynys Môn LL59 5SS TELEPHONE: 01248 712287 E-MAIL: [email protected] STATUS: C AGE RANGE: 11 - 18 STANDARD NUMBER: 216 ADMISSION NUMBER: 216 CAPACITY 1283 LANGUAGE CATEGORY: Bilingual

SEPTEMBER 2018 ADMISSIONS

Applications 179

Number admitted to year 7 179

Number admitted following appeal None

Total Pupils 1102

September 2019 forecast It is not anticipated that the number of applications for admission in September 2019 will be higher than the Admission Number

Catchment area primary schools Ysgol Gynradd Biwmares Ysgol Gynradd Llanfairpwll Ysgol Gynradd Llangoed Ysgol Gymuned Pentraeth Ysgol Gynradd Llandegfan Ysgol Y Borth, Porthaethwy Ysgol Parc Y Bont, Llanddaniel *Ysgol Gymuned Dwyran Ysgol Gynradd Brynsiencyn

*Ysgol Dwyran is in the catchment area of Ysgol Gyfun Llangefni and Ysgol David Hughes.

For further information regarding the borders, visit the Council’s website and search for ‘MapMôn’ www.anglesey.gov.uk

SCHOOL: Ysgol Uwchradd Bodedern HEADTEACHER: Mrs Catrin Jones Hughes ADDRESS: Bodedern, Ynys Môn LL65 3SU TELEPHONE: 01407 741000 E-MAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.ysgoluwchraddbodedern.org STATUS: C AGE RANGE: 11 - 18 STANDARD NUMBER: 159 ADMISSION NUMBER: 159 CAPACITY 851 LANGUAGE CATEGORY: Bilingual

SEPTEMBER 2018 ADMISSIONS

Applications 133 Number admitted to year 7 133

Number admitted following appeal None

Total Pupils 683

September 2019 forecast It is not anticipated that the number of applications for admission in September 2019 will be higher than the Admission Number

Catchment area primary schools Ysgol Gymuned Bryngwran Ysgol Y Ffridd, Gwalchmai Ysgol Rhyd y Llan, Llanfaethlu Ysgol Gynradd Llanfachraeth Ysgol Gymraeg Morswyn Ysgol Gymuned Llannerch-y-medd Ysgol Gynradd Bodedern Ysgol Pencarnisiog Ysgol Gymuned Y Fali

Ysgol Uwchradd Bodedern is considered as the catchment area school for children from the Holyhead catchment area who wish to receive a full bilingual secondary education.

For further information regarding the borders, visit the Council’s website and search for ‘MapMôn’ www.anglesey.gov.uk

APPENDIX II

PRIMARY SCHOOLS

Key

C - Ysgolion Cymunedol / Community Schools

G (E) - Ysgolion Gwirfoddol Yr Eglwys yng Nghymru / Voluntary School - Church in Wales

G (C) - Ysgolion Gwirfoddol – Catholig / Voluntary Schools – Roman Catholic

W - Ysgol Sefydledig / Foundation School

WM - Ysgol Cyfrwng Cymraeg / Welsh Medium School

EM - Ysgol Cyfrwng Saesneg / English Medium School

DS - Dwy Ffrwd / Dual Stream

All schools are co-educational day schools

Ysgolion Cynradd Dalgylch

YSGOL SYR THOMAS JONES

2018

Sept

di Catchment Area Primary Schools

Medi

Admission

fynediad

for

disgyblion

Number