Welcome to Bonhill Primary School

School Handbook 2020/2021

Contents Page Number

Statement of Commitment/Learning for Life 4

School Vision and Values Statement 5 & 6

School Information 7 - 10

Staffing 11 & 12

School Hours and the School Year 13 - 15

Enrolment and Policies for Parents 15

School Improvement, Achievement and Curriculum Areas 16 - 23

Assessment Tracking and Reporting on Pupil Progress 23 - 25

Equal Opportunities and Social Justice 25

Additional Support Needs and Pupil Support Structure 27 - 31

Anti-Bullying Policy 31

Homework and School/Community Links 32

Attendance at School 33 & 34

Extra Curricular Activities 34 & 35

Promoting Positive Behaviour 35 & 36

Clothing and Uniform 36 - 38

Meals/Transport/ Photography 39

Medical, Health Care and Emergencies 40 & 41

Parental Involvement and the Parent Council 41 & 42

Transfer from Primary to Secondary School 43

Data Protection 44 & 45

Service Standards 46

Important Addresses 47

Department of Education and Cultural Services Statement of Commitment ‘Opportunity through Learning’

Every person has the right to be educated in a climate in which individuality is recognised and in which everyone feels valued. We are committed to working in partnership with you to provide education of the highest quality.

Learning for Life We will work together to ensure that everyone in our community is valued and has the opportunity to learn for life and to achieve their potential.

Vision: To enable everyone in West Dunbartonshire to become:

Successful Learners Confident Individuals Responsible Citizens Effective Contributors

To achieve our vision we will:

Create and deliver courses, activities and events which will motivate and excite learners Develop innovative ways to support learning Value diversity, promote equal opportunities and foster inclusion Promote partnership and community participation Value achievement and celebrate success Continually reflect on and aim to improve the quality of our services

Bonhill Primary School

Vision, Values and Aims Statement

Parents, pupils and teachers worked together to agree upon:

Our Shared Vision

With parents as our partners, our vision is to provide a welcoming, happy, caring, stimulating and secure environment in which all will recognize and achieve their fullest potential. We will foster an ethos where all achievements are celebrated and where everyone feels included, respected and valued. We will work to ensure our school is at the heart of our local community.

Our Shared Aims

 To develop a sense of pride in ourselves, each other and our environment  To provide a safe, happy, caring and stimulating environment for all, where everyone feels included, valued and respected  To establish an inclusive and welcoming school at the heart of the local community  To equip children with the skills for life and the future

Our Shared Values

Respect In Bonhill Primary, we respect ourselves, others and our community

Responsibility In Bonhill Primary, we are responsible for our own actions and ensure everyone’s rights are respected

Manners In Bonhill Primary, we treat others as we would like to be treated

Perseverance In Bonhill Primary, we never say ‘I can’t’, we always say ’I’ll try’.

Honesty In Bonhill Primary, we always show honesty by being open and truthful towards ourselves and others, no matter how hard

Fairness In Bonhill Primary, we treat everyone equally and ensure everyone is given the same opportunity to achieve their full potential

School Information

Bonhill Primary School Raglan Street, Bonhill, Alexandria G83 9JA

Tel: 01389 773700 Fax: 01389 773709

Email: [email protected]

Head Teacher Miss Julie Reilly Depute Head Teacher Mr Satwant Bance Principal Teacher Ms Laura Campbell

Bonhill Primary School is a non-denominational, co-educational school serving the catchment area which extends from Dalmonach, in the north, to Strathleven, in the south. Bonhill Primary School has a state of the art flagship building which can accommodate children from Primary 1 through to Primary 7. At present, we have 292 children on the school roll and we have a maximum capacity of approximately 325 pupils. Parents should note that the working capacity of the school may vary dependent upon the number of pupils at each stage and the way in which classes are organised.

The school has 10 spacious and modern classrooms as well as an ICT suite, Library and Hall. Due to a growing demand for places within the school, we have had to utilise our ICT suite as a classroom. Our corridors are spacious and also form part of the ‘break out’ area which extends the learning and teaching area of every classroom. An important and integral feature of each classroom is the teaching wall where ICT and technology help to engage and motivate our learners.

The learning environment is also enhanced by our inner courtyard which is an outdoor classroom, outdoor dining area and gardening area. We have added our Playbarn to the inner courtyard where the children in the Infant Department can be fully immersed in our Learn through Play methodology.

The playground area features an all-weather pitch, soft play areas and a variety of fixed play equipment. We have a pirate ship situated in our infant playground and an outside classroom, Forest School cabin and bouldering wall situated in the senior playground. We also have an outside pizza oven to enhance our outdoor learning environment as well as established vegetable plots where we grow vegetables which we sell to the local community and use in the school kitchen.

Outdoor Learning is an important feature of the learning experience enjoyed by our children and each term we have a day where the learning is focused on the outdoors. All children and staff participate in this and we have a variety of wet weather suits to protect the children. There is no such thing as bad weather – only bad clothing!

We are extremely lucky to have a 21st century building that helps us prepare our children for a 21st century workplace. Parents are very welcome and I hope that you are as impressed with our excellent surroundings as we are.

We consider ourselves to be an open school in so much as we aim to be available for parents/carers whenever possible and we make it a priority to be able to meet requests for appointments and meetings at times when requested. We try hard to do so even at very short notice and when this is not possible we make arrangements to meet with parents as soon as it is possible.

Opportunities are given regularly through our newsletters and in other forms of communication to comment on school routines and practices and to give parents the opportunity to offer suggestions with regard to the curriculum. Parents can find a range of information about schools on the council website: http://www.west-dunbarton.gov.uk/schools-and-learning/schools/school- search/

All educational establishments within West Dunbartonshire Council are members of a Local Learning Community (LLC). These LLC’s are made up of one secondary school and its associated primary schools and include a number of Early Education and Childcare Centres and Partnership nurseries. Bonhill Primary School is a member of the Vale of Leven Learning Community.

The five Learning Communities in West Dunbartonshire have been established as part of West Dunbartonshire’s educational improvement strategy. This strategy has a clear focus to raise educational aspirations, achievement and attainment of all pupils while improving the skills and knowledge of all staff involved in the education of children and young people.

Miss Reilly, Head Teacher, represents Bonhill Primary School on the Vale of Leven Learning Community; however other members of staff may attend meetings in support of improvement work. The Vale of Leven Local Learning Community is led by Miss Julie McGrogan, Senior Education Manager. Updates of the work of LLCs will be made available through parent council meetings and through Standards and Quality reporting.

Staffing Bonhill Staff

Head Teacher Miss Julie Reilly Depute Head Teacher Mr Satwant Bance Principal Teacher Ms Laura Campbell

Class Teachers

P 1 Mrs Ford and Miss Gibson P 2 Miss Hawthorne P2/3 Mrs Allison P3 Mrs Wilson P3/4 Miss Sweeney P4 Mrs Mitchell P5 Ms Campbell and Mrs Monaghan P5/6 Mrs Mowat and Mrs McColgan P6 Mrs O’Brien P7a Mrs Stewart P7b Miss C Reilly

Flexibility Mrs Riach Mrs McDonald Mrs Freeman Miss McGhee Staff Development Through In-Service Training, internal and external courses, Collaborative planning and working all staff continually develop their knowledge and understanding of classroom teaching, learning and assessment within the primary curriculum.

Brass Instructor Mr Lorne Cowieson (1/2 day weekly)

Clerical Assistants Mrs Pamela Vincent and Miss Megan Rae

Learning Assistants Mrs Lorraine Gillespie, Mrs Eleanor Davidson, Mrs Anne Leonardi, Miss Stacey Donnelly, Mrs Emma Arnold and Mrs Josephine Hunter

Pupil and Family Support Mrs Isobel Watt

Educational Psychologist Mrs Amy Began

Janitor Mr Charlie Meikle In addition, the following staff are employed by Contract Services and the School Crossing Patrol.

Cleaners Paula Caird, Cass Ewing and Hazel Cameron

Lollipop Lady Mrs Susan McDonald

Catering Assistants Mrs Sharon Neil, Mrs Jackie Gildea, Mrs Annette Bishop, Mrs Michelle Jackson, Mrs Amanda Fleming and Mrs Susan McDonald.

School Hours and the School Year

Opening : 9.00am Interval : 10.30am —10.45am Lunch : 12.15pm — 1.00pm Close : 3.00pm

Primary 1 children attend school for the whole day from the first day on the 17th August 2020

N.B. The school is not open to pupils before 9.00 and, on wet days, parents should send pupils in no earlier than 8.50 am On very wet days, the janitor will ring the bell at 8.45 am to allow the pupils into the classrooms. This is, of course, dependent on having teachers in place to supervise.

Breakfast Club

There is a breakfast club in our dining hall from 8.15am. Children who attend will be supervised indoors until 8.45, when weather permitting they will then go outdoors. Breakfast costs 89p for your first child per day and 36p for any siblings. Children entitled to a clothing grant pay 36p.

School Year 2020/2021

Autumn Term: Block 1 and Block 2 First Term Pupils Re- open Monday 17th August 2020 Primary 2-7 - 9am Primary 1 - 9.15am/9.30am September Weekend Close Friday 25th September 2020 and Monday 28th September 2020 In Service Day Friday 9th October 2020 Mid Term Close Monday 12th October 2020 to Friday 16th October 2020 (inclusive) Close Tuesday 22nd December 2020 (2.30pm) Christmas/New Year Wednesday 23rd December 2020 to Break Tuesday 5th January 2021 (inclusive)

Spring Term : Block 3 Second Term Pupils Re-open Wednesday 6th January 2021 Mid Term Close Monday 8th February 2021 and Tuesday 9th February 2021 In Service Day Wednesday 10th February 2021 Close Thursday 1st April 2021 (2.30pm) Spring Break Close Friday 2nd April 2021 to Friday 16th April 2021 (inclusive) Re-open Monday 19th April 2021

Summer Term : Block 4 Third Term Pupils Re - open Monday 19th April 2021 May Day Close Monday 3rd May 2021 In Service Day Thursday 6th May 2021 May Weekend Close Friday 28th May 2021 and Monday 31st May 2021 (inclusive) Summer Close Monday 28th June 2021 (1.00 pm)

Enrolment When a child is of age to begin primary school, parents will be invited to visit their local school for the purpose of registration. Notice of registration, dates and times will appear in the local press in January of each year. Once your child is enrolled for education at Bonhill Primary School, they will be invited to attend transition visits and you and your child will be invited to our Primary 1 Information Session. Parents of older children seeking a place in the school should arrange an appointment with the Head Teacher.

Nursery-Primary Liaison We work very closely with our local pre-five establishments. Links have also been set up with Dalmonach, Jamestown, Ferryfield, Lennox, Carousel and Riverside Nurseries. These Nurseries transfer pupil reports to us and a member of the Bonhill staff visits the nurseries during the spring and summer term. This ensures that our Primary 1 pupils have a smooth transfer into Bonhill Primary School. To enrol a child of any age during the term, please contact the head teacher.

Policies for Parents and Carers

The local education authority has produced policies for parents which provide information for new parents at school. Copies are available from the school or can be accessed from the council website.

School Improvement and Achievement

Self-evaluation, collegiate planning and personal and corporate responsibility are essential drivers in three things. These are:  the continued review of Bonhill Primary School’s work  the implementation of its improvements  shaping of the school’s future direction.

Through its commitment to self-evaluation for continued improvement, there is an ethos of a shared commitment amongst staff where creativity, innovation, critical reflection and enquiry are nurtured and encouraged.

There are consistent approaches throughout the school which are supported by policies and guidelines which are reviewed on a regular basis and reflect current local and national advice. This ensures that there is consistency in the promotion of the highest standards and success for all learners.

All staff are committed and focussed on the development of the children’s capacities and attitudes to learning through learning and teaching approaches which involve engaging, enterprising, challenging and motivational learning experiences in indoor and outdoor learning.

All members of staff are committed to school improvement and to the raising of standards and regard this as of paramount importance. They are committed to ensuring that there is equality of opportunity and access for all learners.

All members of the school community interact productively in learning across the school. We are keen to maintain existing partnerships and embark on new partnerships to enhance pupil experiences. The school also proud to highlight its achievements in the local media and are frequently featured in the local press, The Lennox Herald, the Dumbarton Reporter and Your Radio.

The Curriculum

At the heart of a Curriculum for Excellence lies the aspiration that all children should develop their capacities as successful learners, confident individuals, responsible citizens and effective contributors. West Dunbartonshire Council’s priority for Curriculum for Excellence is to ensure effective teaching and learning. A Curriculum for Excellence challenges us to look at innovative and exciting ways to deliver the curriculum to our children. While there are specific programmes for each area of the curriculum much of it can now be delivered through cross- cutting themes and interdisciplinary studies and projects. Curriculum for Excellence enables professionals to teach in a creative way, to work together, plan together and to create shared learning experiences. It balances the importance of knowledge and skills.

It ensures that pupils have opportunities for choice and that they are active participants in their own learning. There will be new ways of assessing progress and ensuring that children achieve their potential.

Curriculum Areas Health and Well Being

We are a health promoting school and encourage children to develop and apply their knowledge to make informed decisions and choices in order to improve their physical, emotional and social wellbeing and pursue healthy lifestyles. Each term we have a specific health focus across all stages eg personal safety; anti-bullying; drugs awareness and physical fitness. These are often linked to any particular event or issue going on in the wider world. There are opportunities for pupils to develop a sense of responsibility towards health promotion and a commitment to looking after their own health. In interdisciplinary themes each term health and wellbeing is always given importance and learners’ experiences are planned carefully including assessment of skills development in this area of the curriculum.

Children have two hours of PE/fitness per week with their class teacher. There are programmes of work covering health, personal & social development and physical education which are used to plan health focus days and ensure a suitable breadth of study is undertaken across the stages. Teachers also plan collaboratively with colleagues to ensure that there is a progression of skills developed as well as a good variety and range of activities or learning experiences. Children at particular stages in the school have also benefited from working with Sports Development Officers in a range of sports such as: P 2 Football; P 4 Rugby;

P 5 Hockey; P 6 Sportshall Athletics and Swimming; P 7 Swimming and football. We have specific programmes which help to ensure that our children develop emotional resilience to cope with an ever increasingly busy lifestyle. We also offer Seasons for Growth programmes to support children who have experienced bereavement, separation or divorce in their young life.

English Language and Literacy

Literacy offers children an essential passport to learning across the curriculum and prepares children to take a full and active role in society and work. Learning through language develops children’s ability to communicate their thoughts and feelings. Children develop skills in listening, talking, reading and writing which are all essential for learning, work and life.

In Bonhill Primary School we have language and reading programmes. We also have a writing programme and a talking and listening programme. We introduced our new planning for literacy and English which has been developed in accordance with a Curriculum for Excellence for each of the levels and allows for a specific focus on skills development within each aspect of literacy. Learning experiences in reading are planned ensuring that pupils work individually, paired; in cooperative groups and in reciprocal reading groups. Children are encouraged to engage in functional and personal writing experiences. Writing is usually linked to the theme and pupils are knowledgeable about their targets in writing. They often engage in self and peer assessment experiences and Teachers plan collaboratively for interdisciplinary themes where literacy has a major focus such as our novel studies.

We have developed our own spelling programme from Primary 3 through to Primary 7 which has helped to ensure that there is effective skills development and a consistency of approach. Across the school the children also learn another language – in Bonhill Primary School it is French. This is built in to the daily life of the school to ensure that the children are immersed in another language. In Primary 4 through to Primary 7 children are also given the opportunity to begin learning a third language. Each class is given a 30 min period a week for German which encourages children to communicate and see the value of being competent in another language.

Mathematics and Numeracy

Through the study of mathematics children develop essential numeracy and mathematical skills which they can apply in different contexts and in the world of work. Mathematics is a key element in engineering, science, technology and business.

We use a variety of resources and methodologies for Primary 1 through to Primary 7. We try to ensure that maths lessons have an appropriate balance of oral maths, practical and active experiences; consolidation and practice. Great emphasis is placed on interactive and active leaning. Some of the mathematics curriculum is delivered through our interdisciplinary learning themes and some is developed though our core programmes. We ensure there is progression of skills through planning learning experiences and assessments collaboratively with colleagues.

Social Studies

Engaging in social studies allows children to develop an understanding of their world by learning about other people, their values and cultures, in different times, places and circumstances and how their environment has been shaped. Children learn about human achievements, conflicts and environmental issues, both in a local and global context. In Bonhill Primary School we engage in social studies within our inter-disciplinary themes.

Expressive Arts

Expressive arts include art and design, drama, dance & music. Through the expressive arts curriculum children are given a variety of opportunities to enjoy creative and imaginative activities and to express themselves in different ways.

Expressive arts can also be a forum for children to bring enjoyment and entertainment to others through shows, concerts and assemblies.

Throughout the year children in Bonhill Primary School are given opportunities to perform before their peers and parents.

Sciences

Sciences include study in biological, chemical, physical and environmental contexts. Learning through science enables children to investigate their environment, develop an understanding of scientific contexts and achievements as well as recognise the impact that science makes on our lives. We are currently developing STEM approaches to science, technology, engineering and maths through interdisciplinary learning.

Technologies

The use of ICT is an integral part of education. All classes have a range of ICT equipment and software covering many of the curricular areas and these are used to enhance teaching and learning. All children have the use of a Chromebook. All classrooms have an interactive whiteboard fitted which can be used throughout the day and across the curriculum. To participate fully in modern society children need to be skilled and knowledgeable users of technology as well as able to assess the impact of this technology in society. We have a school website which helps to inform parents about the life and work of the school. Our Positive Behaviour Policy is based upon Class Dojo which is an interactive reward system which motivates and engages the children. Parents can connect to this by downloading a free app on to their smart phone. Thanks to the app they can keep informed about their child’s successes throughout the day and they can be informed about what the children have been learning about within the classroom.

Religious and Moral Education

This includes learning about Christianity as well as other world religions. We are continuing to develop our approach to teaching and learning within the religious education curriculum. Children across the school have opportunities to learn about sex education and family relationships.

Parents do have the right to withdraw their child from religious education. Please speak to the head teacher if you wish this to happen. Parents from ethnic minority religious communities may request that their children be permitted to be absent from school in order to celebrate recognised religious events. Parents wishing to make such a request should contact the Head Teacher. Assessment Continual assessment of the curriculum is carried out by the head teacher and staff. Each teacher is constantly monitoring and assessing the progress of the pupils. This is done through:  observation  oral feedback  written feedback  class progress records  standardised tests

A key feature of assessment is formative assessment. Formative assessment is the teacher and child working together to support learning. It is about teachers giving effective feedback to pupils and the active involvement of children in their learning. Oral progress reports are given to each parent at the parent-teacher interviews. However, parents are most welcome to call at the school or to telephone the head teacher at any time to arrange an appointment to discuss their child’s assessment information or progress.

Target Setting

Self-evaluation is a key feature in teaching and learning. Both staff and children engage in self and peer evaluations to continually inform and improve standards across the school. Pupil performance is tracked regularly by the class teacher and head teacher. Teachers meet with the head teacher to ensure pupils are on track with their learning. Pupils are encouraged to have a knowledge of the level that they are working on. Class teachers and the head teacher keep records of pupil progress within levels. Pupils talk about their learning journey and have knowledge of their personal targets.

Reporting

There are two official parent/carer evenings in Bonhill Primary School and an annual written report. As indicated above, we also use Class Dojo to keep parents informed. Curriculum for Excellence is organised into different levels and your child’s report will tell you about their progress in the levels throughout the year. The written report will include information and teacher comments about:

(a) the breadth of learning your child has experienced within curricular areas (b) the level of challenge planned for your child to ensure he/she is achieving his/her full potential and being supported appropriately (c) how well your child can apply learning in new and unfamiliar contexts

Early Level The pre-school years and P1 or later for some First Level To the end of P4, but earlier or later for some Second Level To the end of P7, but earlier for some Third & Fourth Level S1 to S3, but earlier for some. The fourth level broadly equates to Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework Level 4. The fourth level experiences and outcomes are intended to provide possibilities for choice and young people’s programmes will not include all of the fourth level outcomes. Senior Phase S4 – S6 and college or other means of study

Equal Opportunities and Social Justice

All members of the School Community are treated equally and given equal opportunity to access teaching and learning to each person’s potential. Every member of staff has a responsibility to ensure the council’s Equal Opportunities Policy is adhered to.

Forest Schools and Outdoor Learning A particular feature of our school’s ethos is our passion and commitment to outdoor learning and Forest school. Forest school is a long-term sustainable approach to outdoor learning. It builds self-esteem and independence in children and young people through the exploration and of and the experiences in the natural world. There are countless pieces of international research that highlight the importance of children spending time in natural outdoor spaces. There are physical, mental, social and behavioural benefits for this approach to learning. It also increases the children’s ability to risk assess as well as having many social benefits. We have staff trained so that this approach can be developed throughout the school.

Respecting Children’s Rights Rights Respecting Schools recognise achievement in putting the rights of the child at the heart of a school’s planning, policies, practice and ethos. A rights-respecting school not only teaches about children’s rights but also models rights and respect in all its relationships: between teachers/adults and pupils, between adults and between pupils. This provides a clear link for pupils between building up their rights-respecting school, understanding their rights and the need for the children’s rights to be realised everywhere. Children and young people in rights-respecting schools develop a stronger sense of the need to act for global justice.

Children have a Article 24 Adults have a responsibility to:- Every child has the right to responsibility to:- Make healthy food good quality health care, to Look after us at home choices and to eat lunch clean water, nutritious food and in school. Provide and a clean environment, so us with food/shelter Brush teeth and keep that they will stay healthy. themselves clean Rich counties should help Look after us and poorer countries achieve keep us safe Give to charity and this. support others Article 29 Help us understand Every child has the right to about other cultures Show good manners an education. Education and respect others should teach children to Teach us and show respect their parents, their us how to respect Respect and listen to own culture and the others by setting adults culture of others. example Show me and others Understand differences respect. Help us with our and similarities between learning people

Additional Support Needs

School are required by law to ensure they are providing for children and young people who require additional help with their learning. The Additional Support for Learning Act (ASL) 2009 requires that from 14 November 2010 schools improve on how we communicate with parents/carers on all aspects of the ASL Act. Detailed information on the changes resulting from the legislation is available to all parents.

Supporting learners requiring additional support

Staff monitor the progress of children requiring support and provide learning materials suitable to their level of development. All schools in West Dunbartonshire have a staged intervention process for identifying pupils with support needs. Some pupils have support plans to help them with particular aspects of their learning. Parents will always be informed about this and will be invited to discuss support needs and plans with the head or depute head teacher at key times during the year. Any parent/carer concerned about their child’s learning is welcome to visit the school to discuss their concerns. Information is available about additional support on the council website. Schools also have the support of Psychological Services. The role of the educational psychologist is to lend support by interviewing, testing and suggesting suitable work and materials for children whose learning or behaviour is causing concern. Parents will always be consulted if a referral to the psychologist is being considered. We aim to ensure that the learning experiences for all our pupils are appropriate. Our approach to embrace the national policy of Getting it right for every child (GIRFEC) is to ensure that we work effectively, and communicate successfully with parents and different agencies to ensure maximum benefits for pupils.

Pupil Support Structure

All staff in the school are required to be aware of child protection issues and are provided with regular information on child protection policy and procedures. The school maintains close working relationships with all other relevant agencies to ensure appropriate information is shared and that professionals from various agencies work collaboratively for the wellbeing of the children and young people. All staff have a responsibility to report concerns regarding the welfare or safety of a child or young person to the head teacher. If the head teacher or the depute head is of the view that there may be grounds for concern they will immediately contact the duty senior social worker and advise them of the circumstances. In Bonhill Primary School we aim to get it right for every child (GIRFEC). Our policy is to support pupils with all aspects of their learning and to ensure that parents and pupils access support from different agencies out with education such as health, social work and the wider community groups associated with supporting vulnerable pupils. We try to ensure that our pupils are safe, healthy, achieving, attaining, nurtured, included and fulfilling their potential. We work in partnership with parents and carers and ensure that our pupils have an identified person that they can speak to, relate to and be supported by. We try to remove barriers to learning and at all times consider how we can best include and support individual pupils so that they continue to achieve.

GIRFEC - Named Person

Getting it Right for Every Child (GIRFEC) is the Scottish Government’s approach to promoting and safeguarding the wellbeing of children in Scotland. Duties attached to the Children and Young People Act 2014 means there will be a single planning framework for children who need support from services (called a Child’s Plan). The Named Person will continue to be offered in West Dunbartonshire on a policy basis. In most cases the families around each child will be able to offer all the help and support that is needed. However, there are times when a child may need a bit of extra help. The GIRFEC approach is there to make it as easy as possible to get that help when it is needed and wanted by families.

The GIRFEC policy approach is to ensure that every child and young person and their family have access to help and support from a key member of staff in order to support the wellbeing and additional support needs of children and young people. The role of Named Person is integrated into the current role of key promoted members of staff in schools and serves to strengthen the support they currently provide as a central point of contact for children, parents and other people working with them.

On our school website you will find the names of the members of staff who have been given key supporting roles for each age group of children along with the arrangements for cover in the event of absence.

It is our intention to support the wellbeing and safeguarding of all our young people. Parents are reminded that the Named Person will only offer advice or support in response to a request from a child or parent, or when a wellbeing need has been identified. There is no obligation to accept the offer of advice or support from a Named Person.

Holiday Cover The GIRFEC policy also recommends the local authorities provide continuity of support signposting during school holiday periods. At these times coordination will be provided by suitably qualified staff from the Central Named Person Service at the Council Offices. See contact details below. Central Services Named Person Service: Joanne Scott (Education Support Officer) 01389 737000 @west - dunbarton.gov.uk

Tracy King (Education Support Officer) 01389 737000 @west - dunbarton.gov.uk

Claire Cusick (Senior Education Officer) 01389 737000 @west - dunbarton.gov.uk

Below you will find the names of the members of staff with key support responsibilities for each age group of children along with the arrangements for cover in the event of absence.

It is our intention to support the wellbeing and safeguarding of all our young people to ensure that they have access to positive outcomes, choices and destinations; however, parents are reminded that the Named Person will only offer advice or support in response to a request from a child or parent, or when a wellbeing need has been identified. There is no obligation to accept the offer of advice or support from a Named Person.

At Bonhill Primary School your child’s Named Person can be contacted on 01389 773700 and the allocation will be as follows:

Class Named Person HT & Named Person Absence Cover

P1 – 3 Ms Campbell Miss Reilly & Mr Bance P4 – 7 Mr Bance Miss Reilly & Ms Campbell

If your child has a support plan the above is still unchanged.

Anti-bullying Policy In Bonhill Primary School we aspire to keep pupils feeling happy and safe at school. We aim to cooperate, help and support each other.

Aims of our anti-bullying policy That all staff, pupils and parents understand what bullying is and know exactly what action to take if an incident of bullying takes place in school. That all staff, pupils and parents know that bullying will not be tolerated in any form in Bonhill Primary School. That pupils and parents know they are encouraged to speak up about incidents of bullying and not permit bullying to exist through secrecy and silence. That all staff, pupils and parents know that any incidents of bullying will be dealt with quickly and effectively when reported. That our anti-bullying policy is recognised as part of a wider policy on ethos which encompasses promoting positive behaviour, equal opportunities, child protection, promoting a healthy school and anti- racism. That our anti-bullying ethos can be highlighted in a number of curricular areas e.g. R.E., PSD, Drama, Art, Language That the bully him/herself knows that he/she will be accountable for his/her behaviour.

Homework

Following consultation with parents/carers, pupils and staff we are in the process of revising our Homework Policy.

P1 Homework Phonics, numeracy task and reading P2 – P7 Homework Reading homework will be issued and to be returned as directed by the class teacher. Optional homework is available online via Sumdog and Spelling City. These are used in school and children are familiar with how to access and use.

If you do not have internet access at home, Chromebooks will be available for you and your child to use on a Tuesday from 3 – 4pm in the school dining hall.

School and Community Links

The school is an integral part of the community and we encourage the children to realise that they are members of that community and have a duty towards it.

We ensure that we develop our practices as a school community. We support each other in school and encourage pupils to support each other. Pupils have opportunities to join different groups and are encouraged to develop leadership skills and voice their opinions, leading to change and new initiatives e.g. eco group; pupil council; Rights Respecting Schools group; lunch monitoring group etc The children are encouraged to use community centres and other local facilities.

The school has frequent visits from a wide range of support agencies, local businesses and other visitors to support teaching and learning. In addition children visit local businesses and attractions to enhance the curriculum.

Attendance at School

Section 30 of the 1980 Education Act lays a duty on every parent of a child of ‘school age’ to ensure that their child attends school regularly.

Parents are asked to inform the school by letter or telephone if their child is likely to be absent for some time, and to give the child a note on his or her return to school confirming the reason for absence. If your child is absent from school, a member of the clerical staff will telephone you to ask why your child is not at school. We sometimes use pupil and family support workers to visit families at home if no contact has been made. The reasons for this are to ensure pupil welfare.

The Policies for Parents document “Achievement through Attendance” is available to all parents from their children’s school and outlines the importance of good attendance.

The Scottish Government has now issued guidance to all local authorities indicating that family holidays taken during term time should be categorised as unauthorised absence (curricular no. 5/03). Clearly with no explanation from the parent the absence is unauthorised.

Only in very exceptional circumstances will it be possible for the head teacher, with the approval of the local authority, to authorise a family holiday during term time.

No child is allowed to leave school during school hours without the permission of the head teacher. Therefore, if it is essential for a child to leave class, for example for doctor, hospital or dental appointment, an explanatory letter or the appropriate card should be sent in and the child collected from school.

In the interests of safety no child will be allowed to leave the school unaccompanied to keep an appointment or to meet a parent. The parent or guardian must come to the school for the child.

No child will be allowed to be sent home in a taxi within the school day for any reason unless this has been discussed with the Head Teacher.

The school will monitor children’s absences, telephone parents to ask for explanation of absence or send pupil and family support workers if a child is not at school and when necessary i.e. when absences are below an acceptable level without reasonable explanation, will employ steps outlined in the Attendance Policy. Excess absence means that the child/family will be referred to the local education authority Attendance Review Committee. Extra Curricular Activities

Extra curricular activities are available at different times in the school year. Staff permitting, our Primary 7 pupils spend one week at an Outdoor Education Centre.

Swimming, rugby, football, hockey, dance, athletics, netball and games clubs are offered to Primary 1 - 7 at different times throughout the year and are organised by school staff and also sports coaches. During the day sports coaches actively try to promote pupil attendance at evening clubs.

Some of our senior pupils have engaged in charity fundraising activities using their own initiative, creativity and skills. They have then consulted with each other on how best to utilise funds raised.

We have tried to introduce our senior pupils to the world of work by engaging them in Work Experience in the School Kitchen.

All of our children continue to develop our school grounds and we have achieved our fourth green flag for eco schools. We have also been supported by volunteers from the Environment Trust as they support us in developing our school grounds to support Outdoor Learning. This work has been greatly supported by our very active parent council.

All classes will have the opportunity to take part in a number of visits and outings related to themed learning. Some of these visits will be within local or wider community.

Promoting Positive Behaviour

In our school the relationship between the pupils and the staff is similar to that between his/her own parent/guardian. As in the home, self discipline and self control are emphasised throughout the school. We strive to lead the children to an understanding of social interaction, co-operation and resolution of conflict. We employ solution oriented and restorative approaches after disagreements. We try hard to be inclusive in our approach, ensuring that pupils are treated fairly.

An adult presence is provided in playgrounds at break times in terms of the Schools (Safety and Supervision of Pupils) (Scotland) Regulations, 1990.

We believe that through good home-school relationships good discipline can be established and maintained. Pupils are encouraged to show respect for self and others. Staff model good relationships and positive interactions with others. Pupils are treated fairly; with respect and pupils are encouraged to treat adults and others with respect. Staff seek and utilise different approaches to encourage pupils to behave positively, show high levels of motivation and a positive work ethic.

Clothing and School Uniform

Pupils attending schools within West Dunbartonshire Council are required to wear a school uniform. Our contact with parents in recent years has also made us aware that the vast majority are in favour of uniform. The wearing of school uniform helps promote the identity of the school in the local community and helps create an ethos of sharing and pride in the school. Most people tend to form opinions about a school by the appearance of the pupils. West Dunbartonshire Council supports the wearing of the uniform in all of its schools because it:

improves school security by making it easier to identify intruders builds a sense of identity and belonging to the school is cheaper to buy than other clothing which pupils may wish to wear gives pupils an equality of appearance, thereby discouraging competition encourages school discipline and a work ethic amongst pupils

The form of dress which are unacceptable in school are items of clothing which:

potentially encourage faction (such as football colours); could cause offence (such as anti-religious symbolism or political slogans) could cause health and safety concerns, such as loose fitting clothing, sportswear made of flammable material, and body piercings/jewellery for PE and sport; could cause damage to flooring; carry advertising particularly for alcohol or tobacco: could be used to inflict injury on other pupils or be used by others to do so. are valuable or expensive items of clothing or jewellery which present a security issue for the school

Parents receiving income support, family credit, housing benefit or council tax rebate will normally be entitled to monetary clothing grants for their children. Approval of any requests for such grants made by parents in different circumstances are at the discretion of the Director. Application forms may be obtained from schools, area education offices or the Educational Services Department.

West Dunbartonshire Council is concerned at the level of claims being received regarding the loss of pupils’ clothing and/or personal belongings. Parents are asked to assist in this area by ensuring that valuable items and unnecessarily expensive articles of clothing are not brought to school. Parents should note that the council does not carry insurance to cover the loss of such items and any claims submitted are likely to be met only where the council can be shown to have been negligent.

The colour scheme and certain items of dress that comprise an individual

school’s uniform should be determined, through a consultation process which is appropriate to each school. This consultation process should involve pupils, parents and staff. A range of options for this uniform may be considered including, for example, different items of clothing for summer. Bonhill Uniform

We have a distinctive uniform at Bonhill Primary to suit everyone and every occasion. We have recently added tartan uniform items to give parents a wider choice. We have our own registered tartan which was designed by one of our parents, Mr Stewart Byron. We are very proud of our tartan and we encourage all children to wear it all year round. Tartan items can be ordered and purchased from the school office. Our traditional school colours are black, red and yellow. Orders for ties can be purchased in the School Office. Pupils are asked to wear black shoes with their uniform, trainers are not permitted.

The tartan uniform is The formal uniform is The informal uniform is white school blouse/shirt white school blouse/shirt yellow Bonhill polo shirt tartan black skirt/trousers black skirt/trousers kilt/pinafore/trousers black cardigan or jumper black cardigan or jumper black Bonhill sweatshirt Tartan school tie school tie red Summer dresses black school shoes black school shoes black school shoes *We are in the process of consulting parents about uniform and will keep you updated if there are any changes made to the lists above. PE Kit The children wear T shirts, shorts and sandshoes whenever they use the gym hall for drama, physical education or sports clubs. We ask that parents supply these to be left in school and taken home for washing periodically. Jewellery is not permitted at those times for health and safety reasons.

School Meals

Our school meals are cooked on the premises ensuring that they are of the highest quality. As part of the “Hungry for Success” initiative which focuses on healthy school meals, Bonhill Primary is a “Healthy Choices School”. P1 – 3 are entitled to a free school meal and P4 – 7 pupils should pay £2.45 per day unless in receipt of a free school meal. Parents should pay this via Parent Pay. Advice on this can be given by the school office staff. Children of parents receiving income support; job seekers allowance (income based) or child tax credit only with an income of £13,480 or less are entitled to a free mid day meal. Information and application forms for free school meals may be obtained from schools, Area Education Offices and the Education Department.

Transport

If you live more than one mile from the school you may be able to apply for assistance with transport costs. Application forms and information on transport are available on the council website and must be submitted by the end of February each year to enable the appropriate arrangements to be made.

Photography or Video

In line with Council Policy no photography of individuals is permitted on council premises where there is a reasonable expectation of privacy without their consent or in the case of children under 12 years, the consent of their parents/guardians. Parents/guardians will be asked to give written permission on an annual basis for their child to be photographed or videoed for specific purposes related to the life and work of the school and the education service.

Medical and Health Care

West Dunbartonshire Council has strict guidelines and policy on administration of medicines. Consent/information must be given if medicine is to be administered in school. In our school we have a member of staff who is qualified to administer first aid to assist with minor injuries and accidents. Parents are asked to inform the school of any medical requirements of their child.

While the school provides minor first aid treatment, parents should provide the school with an emergency contact so that children can be taken home if illness occurs. The school should be notified immediately if the emergency contact changes.

Minor accidents will be dealt with in school by staff members. In the event of a serious accident the child will be taken directly to Vale of Leven Hospital or Royal Alexandria Hospital, Paisley. Parents will be notified immediately. Minor injuries will be noted in our accident log book. In the event of more serious injuries and all head injuries, parents will be contacted by telephone.

The school nurse is involved with all aspects of health screening and health education. Hearing, vision and dental checks are also carried out throughout the year. Primaries 1 and 2 take part in a tooth-brushing project. The school nurse is also available to help, advise and guide parents/carers with individual concerns over pupils health and wellbeing. Please contact the head teacher if you would like to have an appointment with the school nurse.

N.B. We operate a “nut-free zone” in Bonhill Primary as some of our pupils and staff suffer from an allergic reaction if they are in contact with nut products. We ask for the co-operation and assistance of our parents and pupils in this.

Information in Emergencies

We make every effort to maintain a full educational service, but on some occasions circumstances arise which lead to disruption. Schools may be affected by, for example, severe weather, temporary interruption of transport, power failures or difficulties of fuel supply. In such cases we shall do all we can to let you know about the details of closure or re- opening. We shall keep you in touch by using letters, notices in local shops and community centres, announcements in local churches and announcements in the press and on local radio. You will also be able to access up to date information from the West Dunbartonshire Council website. This can be located at www.west-dunbarton.gov.uk

It is normal practice within West Dunbartonshire Council to operate a helpline when emergencies arise. Details will be made available when an occasion arises.

Parental Involvement

Co-operation between the home and the school is essential for the wellbeing of the child. Parents are very welcome in school to discuss any aspect of their child’s development or progress. It is advisable to telephone first to make an appointment. There are various opportunities throughout the year when parents can discuss their child’s progress with the class teacher and view children’s work. Information on these and other activities is communicated to parents in newsletters or by a note taken home by the children. Parental opinion or comments will be sought and we welcome responses from parents. Please try to respond so that your feedback can be part of any changes introduced. Additional curriculum meetings are held throughout the year. Parents are welcome to help with a variety of activities. Let us know if you can help in this way. Throughout the year, parents are invited to take part in different activities or attend school functions. We have a highly successful Parent Council who meet every six weeks to support the life and work of the school.

Bonhill Parent Voice

Bonhill Primary School has an active Parent Council which is committed to supporting the life and work of the school. As a new parent you will be invited to join the Parent Council or take part in fundraising initiatives during the school year. See contact details on page 46 for further information on parental involvement.

Our parent council members give generously of their time for a meeting each term to discuss how they can best support the school with different projects. They plan and organise specific fund raisers and last session planned and organised a highly successful summer fair. Proceeds from

the fair have been used to support outdoor learning; playground equipment, ICT and to fund discos for pupils at Hallowe’en and Easter – where almost all pupils attended.

Parents on the parent council represent the wider parent group and often represent viewpoints leading to changes in procedures and routines in the school. New members are very welcome.

Transfer from Primary to Secondary School

Pupils are normally transferred between the ages of 11½ and 12½ so that they will have the opportunity to complete at least four years of secondary education. Parents will be informed of the arrangements no later than December of the year preceding the date of transfer at the start of the new session. Children from Bonhill Primary School normally transfer to the Vale of Leven Academy School.

Data Protection

How we use your personal information:

It is important for the school to hold personal information about pupils as it allows us to contact a suitable adult in cases of emergency. The information held also helps West Dunbartonshire Council to provide education services now and to plan for the future.

Information provided to us in relation to children's disability, language, religion, ethnic background or national identity is used to ensure that children’s legal rights in school are recognised. Children's general legal rights are listed in the Children (Scotland) Act 1995, the Equality Act 2010 and in the European Convention on Human Rights.

Information held on pupils is strictly controlled by law, and can only be passed onto other services within the Council and other organisations in accordance with the provisions of the Data Protection 2018 Act (DPA). As a local authority, our schools and early years establishments process information about children and young people in order to provide education and care. All personal data is treated as confidential. The information may be passed to other services and other organisations that will use it for a number of purposes connected to education services, for example, child protection, delivery of National Entitlement Cards and cashless catering, organising school transport, Active Schools Programme, the NHS School Nursing, Dental Health and Immunisation Programmes, collection of information by the Scottish Government and provision of national exams, we may also use any information for research purposes. We may use information held for the purposes of a public task (one of the recognised functions of a Scottish Local Authority) and may share information where necessary with other public bodies or where otherwise required to do so by law.

In terms of Section 94 of the Data Protection Act 2018 (Right of Access / Subject Access Request), a requester is entitled to know what personal information West Dunbartonshire Council holds about them and their children. They are also entitled to access their children's education records in terms of the Pupil's Education Records (Scotland) Regulations 2003.

Applications for Subject Access Requests should be made either to the Head Teacher or to The Data Protection/Information Protection Officer, Municipal Buildings Dumbarton, G82 1NR or dataprotection@west- dunbarton.gov.uk You can find out more about the Subject Access Request procedure by visiting the following web address:http://www.west- dunbarton.gov.uk/council/data-protection-ripsa-and-freedom-of- information/data-protection/ If you would like further information on how your information is used and how we keep your information safe please contact: Data Protection/Information Protection Officer at the above address.

Bonhill Primary School - Our Service Standards

The following Standards of Service are also in place in Bonhill Primary School

 Monitor your child’s performance and report to you annually  Hold two parents’ meetings annually  Offer additional meetings with staff if necessary and appropriate  All primary 1 classes will have no more than 25 pupils  All primary 2 and 3 classes will have no more than 30 pupils  Composite classes will have a maximum of 25 pupils  Newsletters to be sent home termly  Parents will have access to the school handbook  Parents will have access to the full Standards & Quality Report  Parents will be sent home a summary account of the Standards & Quality Report every August  Parents will be given the opportunity to take part in a school audit annually  If there is a serious problem with your child we will contact you immediately  If your child is unwell we will contact you immediately  All letters will be answered within five working days  You will be seen within ten minutes of a pre-arranged meeting  All school staff will be polite and courteous at all times  School staff will wear a name badge  All complaints will be dealt with in line with complaints’ procedure

Important Addresses

Ms Laura Mason Chief Education Officer West Dunbartonshire Council Council Offices 16 Church Street Dumbarton G82 1QL Tel 01389 737000

National Parental Involvement Coordinator Curriculum Division Learning Directorate Scottish Government Tel 07825 175247 www.engageforeducation.org.uk

Community Learning & Development Unit 6, Leven Valley Enterprise Centre Castlehill Road Dumbarton G82 5BN Tel 01389 608072 Fax 01389 608073

Bonhill Primary School Parent Voice Chairperson — Mrs Anne Miller Vice Chairperson — Miss Claire Bruce Secretary— Mrs Debbie Crossan Treasurer— Mrs Ann Marie McCandlish

Although this information is correct at time of printing, there could be changes affecting any of the matters dealt with in the document: (a) before the commencement or during the course of the school year in question; (b) in relation to subsequent school years.