Ysgol yr Eglwys yng Nghymru Pencae Pencae is a voluntary controlled school of the Church in Wales
2019 – 2020 Handbook
Ysgol Pencae School Graiglwyd Road Penmaenmawr LL34 6YG.
Phone: Penmaenmawr (01492) 622219 Text no: 01492 233039 Email: pennaeth@pencae.conwy.sch.uk (headteacher) and [email protected] (administrator) Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ysgol_PencaePen Website – ysgolpencae.co.uk
Headteacher: Ms Sian Hughes Evans Deputy Headteacher: Mrs Ffion Wyn Davies Chairman of the Govenors: Reverend Janice Brown
Dear Parent/Guardian, I am pleased to present to you this Pencae School handbook for the year 2019-2020. The information it contains is intended to acquaint you with the philosophy and organisation of the school. It is also hoped that this handbook will promote close co-operation and a meaningful relationship between the school and the home. Although the particulars in this document are correct at the time of publication, it should not be assumed that there will be no change affecting the relevant arrangements before the start of or during the school year or in relation to subsequent years. We shall notify you of any changes.
signed,
Ms Sian Hughes Evans
If any parent or carer has (Headteacher) additional needs relating to disability and/or language, Pencae is a Welsh Designated School and we’re very cultural issues with which proud that even though almost all our pupils start with they require assistance at us as non-Welsh speakers, all will be leaving us a particular school event bilingual. e.g Meeting (requiring a translator), concert, please contact the Headteacher We have an M.L.D Resource Unit which is accessed by at the school who will be pupils from other schools in the mornings.The Mudiad more than happy to make Meithrin (pre-Nursery group) are on site (8.15 – arrangements to assist you. 3.00p.m), along with a private crèche, which is open
until 6.00p.m.
STATEMENT OF RELIGIOUS ETHOS
Recognising its historical foundation, Pencae school will preserve and develop its religious character in accordance with the principles of the Church in Wales and in partnership with the Church at parish and diocesan levels. The school aims to serve the community by providing an education of the highest quality
within the context of Christian belief and practice. It encourages an understanding of PHILOSOPHY OF THE SCHOOL the meaning and significance of faith and The aim is to try to ensure that the education promotes Christian values through the provided enhances the moral, cultural, mental and experience it offers to all its pupils. physical development of each pupil and that the nature of the complete curriculum is varied, expansive and balanced.
In order to fulfil these needs the class organisation will be flexible; work will sometimes be given according to the child's age, at other times children of different age groups spanning more than one school year, will work together on one task. The children will be taught as a class unit in the care of one designated teacher, however your children will be taught by other teachers in certain subjects / days.
Our main aim is to ensure the safety
of all within the community of our school and adhere to our policies, particularly – 1. Child Protection 2. Health and Safety 3. Safety / Safeguarding 4. Internet Safety and to carry out various risk assessments yearly to ensure that we do. We store sensitive data on ‘safe’ County networks and share sensitive information with schools and Local Authorities via ‘safe’ emailing systems.
In accordance with the Welsh National Curriculum, the curriculum is planned on the basis of 7 different areas of learning in The Foundation Phase and 11 subjects in Key Stage 2 and Religious Education. Throughout, the development of Thinking, Communication, Number and ICT skills is paramount and promoting learning across the curriculum through knowledge and understanding of the Curriculum Cymraeg and Personal and Social Education is highlighted in schemes of work. The school follows the Revised Curriculum for Wales: Revised Areas of Learning and Programmes of Study 2015, and the 2008 curriculum for foundation subjects and the Digital Competency Framework 2016.
STATEMENT OF GENERAL AIMS
The aim of our school is to provide our pupils with a learning environment which ensures equality of education and opportunity for all, in which each individual will feel known and valued for what he/she brings to us. We should see him/her not only as a pupil in school but as a member of the community of the school and of the larger community beyond. We must also remember that he/she is a member of a family (some of our pupils will be members of one parent families) and that much of what he/she does in school influences and is influenced by his/her life outside school. With this in mind, we should set ourselves the aim of working closely with parents.
We are very keen to WORK TOGETHER and share ideas with members outside the community of the school, such as Social Workers, Health etc. in addition to working with parents/guardians for the wellbeing and development of our pupils.
The main aim of our school, following that of safety, is to create a pleasant learning environment - one which will enlarge the pupils' knowledge, experience and imaginative understanding and lead to an awareness of moral values. To this end, we look at the child as a whole and endeavour to ensure that for each individual pupil, the time spent at Pencae school will be an enjoyable experience - one which enhances his/her physical, mental, social and emotional development. When the time comes for pupils to leave our school, they have had a firm educational foundation upon which to attain their full potential and, in time, to become active participants and confident contributors in an ever changing society. As a Christian learning community which promotes the value of family life, we support the parents as primary educators of their children. We challenge every student to strive for the highest standard of personal, social and intellectual development and aim for excellence in all they do. We recognise that all children are unique and aim to guide them along through the day-to-day life of our school by promoting Christian values.
Pencae Governing Body
Correct (April 2019) – Please contact them via the school, or contact the Chair directly.
NAME ADDRESS POSITION REPRESENTIN FROM TO G
Rev Janice Brown The Vicarage, Church Road, Chair Church 01/09/15 and 31/08/19 and Penmaenmawr 01/09/19 31/08/23
Dr Matthew Sherrington Vice Chair Parent 08/4/19 07/4/23
Mr Frank Smith Church 30/06/15 and 29/06/19 and
30/06/19 29/06/23
Sue Hughes. Church 15/01/19 15/01/23
Cllr Dafydd Lloyd Borland Community 01/03/17 01/03/21
Cllr Richard Holmes Town Council 01/09/18 31/8/19
Mr Glenn Barnett Parent 08/4/19 07/4/23
Mrs Vicky Jones Parent 01/06/18 01/06/22
Miss Vanessa Williams Parent 01/11/15 01/11/19
VACANT LEA
VACANT LEA
VACANT LEA
Mrs Owena Roberts Non-teaching 01/09/15 31/08/19 staff
Mrs Ffion Wyn Davies [email protected] Teaching Staff 01/05/19 30/04/19
Ms Sian Hughes Evans [email protected] Headteacher
Pamela Hughes [email protected] Clerk
THE SCHOOL
Pencae School is a Voluntary Controlled Primary School (Infants/Juniors). It is a day, bilingual, co-educational school. In accordance with the Conwy Education Committee Admissions Policy, the school takes in new pupils full time at the beginning of the autumn term following the child's fourth birthday and part time pupils at the beginning of the autumn term following the child’s third birthday.
The School Day Morning Afternoon
Foundation Phase 8.55-10.15 1.00 – 2.15 10.35-12.00 2.30 – 3.00 Class service 2.45-2.55 Juniors 8.55-10.15 1.00 – 2.15 10.35-12.00 2.30 – 3.30 Class service 11.50 – 12.00 Nursery Not in the morning 1.00 – 3.00
Friday Whole school service 2.10 – 2.50
Organisation of the School The school is a Welsh designated school which means that most lessons are taught through the medium of Welsh in the Juniors and all lessons are through the medium of Welsh in the Foundation Phase. The older the pupils are, the more English they will receive, to ensure that both languages develop to a high standard. Please note that almost all our See term dates in pupils start Pencae without any Welsh, back of handbook but all leave us bilingual. Pupils, who start with us in the juniors without having attended a Welsh school, receive a term of intensive Welsh within a small class with a ratio of around 5 pupils to each teacher at Dolgarrog. The LA pay for their taxi to and from their homes for that term. They attend as soon as there is a place for them.
The organisation of classes is arranged thus:
SCHOOL STAFF 2019-2020 Headteacher - Ms Sian Hughes Evans
REGISTRATION TEACHER Year / Class Age Range Registration Room Number / Location
Mrs Fiona Parry* Nursery(p.m)/Reception/ Year 1 3-6 yrs Rooms 1 and 2 – Ground Dreigiau Foel Lys Floor
Miss Eleri Williams Yr 1/2 5-7 yrs Room 3 – Ground Floor Dreigiau Graiglwyd
Mrs Ffion Davies (Deputy) Yr 2/3 6-8 yrs Room 4 – Ground Floor Dreigiau Hafodwen
Mrs Heledd Elis Yr.4/5 8-10 yrs Room 8 – 1st Floor Dreigiau Carnedd Llywelyn
Mrs Sharon Edwards Yr.5/6 9-11 yrs Room 7 – 1st Floor Dreigiau’r Wyddfa
Mrs Anna Williams* School ALNCo and releases teachers for their non-contact time.
Miss Rebecca Roberts ALN Resource Unit – Pencae and 7-11 yrs Room 10 – 1st Floor pupils from other schools access this LA funded unit
* Part Time
Some pupils from different years will be accessing other classes and groups, including different teachers when appropriate.
Support Staff
NAME JOB TITLE MAIN LOCATION
Mrs Owena Roberts Classroom Assistant ALN Resources Unit Mrs Wendy Smith* Classroom Assistant Ground Floor Support Mrs Janet Jones* Classroom Assistant Ground Floor Support Breakfast Club Supervisor Mrs Mari Vick* Classroom Assistant 1st Floor Support Lunchtime Supervisor Miss Pamela Hughes Administrator Office Mr Carl Jones* Caretaker / Cleaner Mrs Linda Roberts* Cleaner Ms Nicola Wylie* Cleaner Mrs Wendy Orsmond* Head Cook Mrs Amanda Crow* Assistant Cook Ms Sian Hughes Evans Senior Luchtime Supervisor Mrs Alison Bone* Lunchtime Supervisor Breakfast Club Supervisor Mrs Louise Hughes* Breakfast Club Supervisor Lunchtime SUpervisor Cleaner Mrs Gwyneth Roberts* Traffic Warden
Ms Tina Hall Peripatetic Music Teacher Woodwind Mr Scott Smith Peripatetic Music Teacher Guitar Mr Keith Jones Peripatetic Music Teacher Brass * - Part time
The work pattern and the organisation of classes varies according to the nature of the activity undertaken at the time. The teacher, along with the pupils often, will decide between Class work, Group work or Paired/Individual work and will make use of rooms and resources in the most appropriate manner.
Children are taught mainly through the medium of Welsh in all classes. As pupils progress through the classes, they will receive more English lessons to ensure that they leave us very well skilled in both languages.
Newcomers who are non-Welsh speakers from the middle of Yr 2 onwards attend Dolgarrog (a Welsh unit) for a term and then return to us well on their way to being bilingual. The County organises a free taxi for them.
MAPS of the buildings
Main building – ground floor
Map of the Hall (to the left of main building)
Main building – 1st floor and corridor up to the resource centre which holds the Mudiad Meithrin and the Afterschool Club
NEW ADMISSION VISITING ARRANGEMENTS
Parents who are considering sending their children to the school may arrange to visit the school to gather more information by consulting the Headteacher beforehand.
We offer a taster morning for our prospective new comers during the Summer Term. During the morning, the parents are invited to a meeting with the Headteacher and view the school. There is ample opportunity to ask questions as well as receiving the appropriate booklets and forms required to formally enrol the children.
WHAT IS YOUR CHILD BEING TAUGHT?
The function of the school is to foster and encourage the child's development as an individual and as a member of society. As an individual one has to encourage his physical, mental and moral growth and give him an opportunity to develop fully. A child is also a member of society and he must be prepared for playing a full role in that society. The overall aim of the school is to try and ensure that the child, by the time he/she is eleven years old, is a child who is fluent and able to read and write in both languages. We aim for all children to be aware of the world around him/her as well as being a child who, in the course of his/her career at Pencae School, has had every opportunity to develop fully according to his/her age, ability and aptitude. This means that in school, pupils follow the National Curriculum which aims to provide each child aged from 5 to 16 years of age with the opportunity to achieve their best within a broad and balanced curriculum.
Your child will be taught the National Curriculum through the 4 Key Stages of his or her compulsory school life according to age. These are:
Foundation Phase which covers pupils aged 3 – 7
which covers pupils aged 7 – 11 Key Stage 2 Key Stage 3 which takes pupils from 11 - 14 Key Stage 4 which takes pupils to the age of 16+
THE NATIONAL CURRICULUM
THE FOUNDATION PHASE ( Nursery to Year 2 )
At this stage the main building blocks of learning experiences are laid. The emphasis will be on developing essential skills of Welsh and English Communication, Mathematics, Thinking, Information Technology, Digital Competency, Literacy and Numeracy. By providing a broad rich curriculum using an integrated approach, we aim to develop the children’s interests whilst also recognising their level of maturity. These are important years where children learn how to observe, listen, respond and develop not only as individuals but also as caring members of our community.
Personal and Social Development, Well-Being We are in the process
and Cultural Diversity of introducing the
Children learn about themselves, their relationships with Digital Competency other children and adults both within and beyond the family. Framework across the They are encouraged to develop their self-esteem, their curriculum, which will
personal beliefs and moral values. They develop an develop pupils’ understanding that others have differing needs, abilities, Information beliefs and views. They become increasingly aware of the Communication traditions and celebrations that are important aspects of the Technology skills. cultures within Wales. They develop an awareness of their environment and learn about the diversity of people who live
and work there. Positive attitude for enjoying and caring for their environment are fostered. Mathematical Development
The children develop their skills, knowledge and understanding of mathematics through Language, Literacy and oral, practical and play activities. They use a Communication Skills variety of ICT resources as tools for exploring number, collecting , using and analysing real- Children are immersed in language life data and for presenting their findings. experiences and activities. Their skills They develop a range of flexible methods for develop through talking, communicating and working mentally with number, in order to solve listening. They are encouraged to listen and problems from a variety of contexts. They respond to others, to use a range of stimuli, explore, estimate and solve real-life problems including audio-visual materials and ICT and develop their understanding of measures, interactive software. They have opportunities investigate the properties of shape and to choose and use reading materials, develop early ideas of position and movement understand the conventions of print and through practical activities. They sort, match, books, and are given a wide range of sequence and compare objects and events, opportunities to enjoy mark-making and explore and create simple patterns and writing experiences. present their work in a variety of ways.
Knowledge and Understanding of the World
The children are given experiences that help them to increase their curiosity about the world around them and help them to begin to understand past events, people and places, living things, and the work people do. They are encouraged to enjoy learning by exploration, enquiry, experimentation, asking questions and trying to find answers. The children are taught to demonstrate care, responsibility, concern and respect for living things and the environment. The children are encouraged to express their own ideas, opinions and feelings with imagination, creativity and sensitivity. Sources such as stories, photographs, maps, models and ICT are used to develop their skills.
Physical Development
The children’s physical development, enthusiasm and energy for movement are continually promoted through helping them to use their bodies effectively. Their spatial awareness, balance, control and coordination are all developed. Their gross and fine motor skills are developed as well as, physical control, mobility and an awareness of space by using large and small equipment. Children are encouraged to enjoy physical activity and develop a sense of identity linked closely to their own self-image, self-esteem and confidence. They are introduced to the concepts of health, hygiene and safety, and the importance of diet, rest sleep and exercise.
Creative Development
The children will be developing their imagination and creativity across the curriculum. The children will engage in creative, imaginative and expressive activities in art, craft, design, music, dance and movement. Children will explore a wide range of stimuli to develop their ability to communicate and express their creative ideas, and reflect on their work.
KEY STAGE 2 CURRICULUM 8-11 Years old
The essential skills of Language, Mathematics, ICT, Digital Competency, Thinking and . PSHE are the central focus of our curriculum. The delivery of the curriculum usually
takes place within an integrated theme where it is meaningful and relevant.
Children will be encouraged to develop self-confidence, independence in learning and higher order skills in a range of situations.
WHAT SUBJECTS WILL MY CHILD STUDY? Pupils must also study Religious Education (according to the The National Curriculum is made up of the following syllabus laid down by the local subjects: ~ authority). The school also provides some personal and English 2015 social education and health and Welsh 2015 safety education. Numeracy, Welsh 2nd Language 2008 Literacy and Thinking Skills are Mathematics 2015 promoted and developed Science 2008 throughout the curriculum. . Design and Technology 2008
Information and CommunicationTechnology 2008 Th e Digital Competency Framework History 2008 introduced across the curriculum,
Geography 2008 develops pupils’ Information Music 2008 Art 2008 Communication Technology skills.
Physical Education 2008
Add
The Programmes of Study for every subject in Key Stage 2 – 4, determines what needs to be taught to pupils.
The skills within the Programme of Study, along with the statements within the Literacy and Numeracy Framework, form the Complete Curriculum (Key Stage 2 Programme of Study).
Within the Welsh and English programmes of study there are 'Strands' (oral, reading and writing) with a range of experiences listed for learners. There are some different elements in the Welsh Programme of Study to reflect the unique requirements of the language.
Within the Mathematics Programme of Study there are ' Strands ' developing numerical reasoning, using number skills, using measuring skills and using data skills. Each strand is divided further into ' elements ' (there are also ' Aspects ' within the Welsh and English Programmes of Study). Within the ' Strands ' are the skills to be taught according to the pupils ' educational year. In the table the skills of the Literacy and Numeracy Framework appear in normal print and skills specific to the study programme are designated in bold. WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE CURRICULUM?
The school has documents which describe the requirements of the National Curriculum including the revised Areas of Learning and programmes of Study 2015 which include the Numeracy and Literacy Framework and the local syllabus for Religious Education. The school decides on how to integrate the curriculum taking account of requirements and organises its own timetable. The teachers plan collaboratively to draw up the lesson plans and decide which text books and other teaching materials to use. It is up to the school to ensure that the school's curriculum meets the legal requirements.
CAN I WITHDRAW MY CHILD FROM THE NATIONAL CURRICULUM?
Parents have the right to withdraw their children from Religious Education and sex education lessons if they wish. They cannot withdraw them from the National Curriculum subjects, or from the arrangements to assess children's progress in these subjects. The assessment arrangements are explained later in this booklet.
If the National Curriculum / Numeracy and Literacy Frameworks are not suitable for a pupil because he or she has certain special educational needs, arrangements can be made to dis-apply the pupil from parts of the National Curriculum. There may also be rare circumstances where the Head teacher is able to temporarily dis-apply a pupil from aspects of the National Curriculum and its assessment arrangements.
WHAT ARE THE NATIONAL
CURRICULUM STANDARDS for key
Stage 2?
Each National Curriculum subject has its own set
of levels, on a common national scale. This scale is graded from levels 1-8, shows how the subjects become more difficult as children get older. The End-of-Foundation phase Teacher level descriptors show exactly which skills pupils are expected to attain before moving on to the Assessment against the National next level, which ensures progression. It also Curriculum. enables teachers to plan lessons according to age and/or ability, and helps them,the pupils, and you, Each child’s language, mathematical, and personal the parents, to monitor your child's progress and social skills is assessed during his or her first against National Curriculum standards. Pupils must term in school. This assessment of the child’s attain the level discriptors in order to reach that skills on entering school helps teachers to assess level. pupils’ abilities and needs to provide a better plan for children’s learning and to measure their progress in the first years of school. Pencae presently uses an electronic system, Incerts, to formally assess the pupils.
BIG CHANGES REGARDING THE NATIONAL CURRICULUM FOLLOWING THE DONALDSON REPORT
Schools in Wales are in the middle of a very exciting time.Welsh Government asked Professor Graham Donaldson to undertake a review of Welsh education and he made a number of recommendations. He wanted to ensure that the education system in Wales was fit for purpose and that children were well prepared and taught the essential skills that they would need for the future.
1. The chart to the right shows that the new curriculum will be shared into four key purposes.
2. Children will be given opportunities to develop these four purposes through six main learning areas.
6 MAIN LEARNING AREAS
3. Every activity and element of the learning must include elements of these three cross curricular skills. 4. ALL THE CHANGES AIM TO ENSURE THAT OUR CHILDREN ARE:-
Ambitious and capable learners • set themselves high standards and seek and enjoy challenge • are building up a body of knowledge and have the skills to connect and apply that knowledge in different contexts • are questioning and enjoy solving problems • can communicate effectively in different forms and settings, using both Welsh and English • can explain the ideas and concepts they are learning about • can use number effectively in different contexts understand how to interpret data and apply mathematical concepts • use digital technologies creatively to communicate, find and analyse information undertake research and evaluate critically what they find Ethical informed citizens • connect and apply their knowledge and skills to create ideas and products • think creatively to reframe and solve problems • identify and grasp opportunities • take measured risks • lead and play different roles in teams effectively and responsibly • express ideas and emotions through different media • give of their energy and skills so that other people will benefit Healthy and Confident individuals • have secure values and are establishing their spiritual and ethical beliefs • are building their mental and emotional well-being by developing confidence, resilience and empathy • apply knowledge about the impact of diet and exercise on physical and mental health in their daily lives • know how to find the information and support to keep safe and well • take part in physical activity • take measured decisions about lifestyle and manage risk • have the confidence to participate in performance • form positive relationships based upon trust and mutual respect • face and overcome challenge • have the skills and knowledge to manage everyday life as independently as they can. Enterprising and Creative Contributors • find, evaluate and use evidence in forming views • engage with contemporary issues based upon their knowledge and values • understand and exercise their human and democratic responsibilities and rights • understand and consider the impact of their actions when making choices and acting • are knowledgeable about their culture, community, society and the world, now and in the past • respect the needs and rights of others, as a member of a diverse society • show their commitment to the sustainability of the planet
TIMETABLE FOR THE CHANGES
National Statutory Baseline Assessment
We at Ysgol Pencae recognise that young children need time to settle into their new class. Unobtrusive observations are made over the first six weeks following their entry into the Reception class to form a baseline assessment.
An observational baseline, rather than a series of tests, provides a wide range of evidence on which to form assessment judgments. This approach supports the Foundation Phase pedagogy helping our staff to understand children’s learning styles and interests as well as their developmental stages.
End of Foundation Phase
Observing children is a key part of assessment throughout the Foundation Phase and each Area of Learning has its own set of challenging targets which cover a series of outcomes on a common national scale. Within each Area of Learning, progress is measured against national standards based on six outcomes. Using this information, teachers will be able to plan according to age and ability, and assess the progress each child is making.
When your child is in the final year of the Foundation Phase, the teacher will assess his/her progress in:
• Personal and Social Development, Well-being and Cultural Diversity;
• Language, Literacy and Communication Skills (Welsh or English);
• Mathematical Development. Although teachers do not finalise their assessment until your child has reached the end of the Foundation Phase, practitioners are observing and assessing children’s work, in all Areas of Learning, on a day to day basis. This helps both practitioners and children to identify individual strengths and areas for development, and to agree next steps in their development as they move through the Foundation Phase into Key Stage 2. When your child transfers to Key Stage 2, his/her new teacher will be provided with all the relevant information about your child’s achievements. This will help them to plan appropriate activities to ensure continuity and progress in your child’s learning. The table on the next page shows how the outcomes in the Foundation Phase link across to the National Curriculum levels that will be used to measure your child’s progress as they move to Key Stage 2 at the age of 7.
The Foundation Phase and its six Outcome scale has been designed to meet the needs of the vast majority of children. However, in exceptional circumstances the following may be appropriate. Your child may attain an ‘A’ when he/she shows evidence that all elements of Outcome 6 within a particular Area of Learning have been securely attained. A ‘W’ may be reported where a child is currently working towards Foundation Phase Outcome 1. In exceptional circumstances a ‘D’ may be reported where it has been necessary to disapply a child from teacher assessment by a child’s statement of Special Educational Needs, or ‘N’ may be reported where circumstances exist that prevent a school from having sufficient knowledge and evidence on which to base a teacher assessment.
Reporting in the Foundation Phase
In addition to receiving a report about your child’s on-entry assessment, each year you should receive a written report on his/her progress and achievements.
Reports for all children will include information about:
• brief details of your child’s progress, including strengths and areas for development, in all relevant Areas of Learning; • activities followed as part of the Foundation Phase curriculum and Religious Education; • details of the arrangements to discuss the report.
Reports for children at the end of the Foundation Phase, will also include:
• the teacher assessment end of phase outcomes for: ‘Personal and Social Development, Well- being and Cultural Diversity’; ‘Language, Literacy and Communication Skills’ (Welsh or English); and ‘Mathematical Development’;
• the overall results of children of the same age within the school (except in very small schools where 5 or fewer were assessed);
• the national results for the previous year for comparison purposes.
KEY STAGE 2 ASSESSMENTS
Teachers monitor pupils’ progress as a normal part of day-to-day teaching. Incerts is used to note, track and analyse progress. In particular, they are required to assess and record progress in English, Welsh, Mathematics and Science against National Curriculum standards when pupils are at the end of Yr 6. Taking into account of our ongoing general class work assessments, internal tests/assessments and homework for example, the teacher decides which level best describes each individual pupil’s attainment in all areas to give an overall subject level. Pencae uses level profiles created by GWE as well as our own individual level profiles ( including Foundation Phase) which are moderated within our cluster of schools as well as within our own school to ensure consistency when assessing pupils’ achievements against National levels. In addition, our subject portfolios containing examples of work against outcomes and levels are an additional tool for teachers to use when appointing levels.
All pupils are continually assessed throughout the year. Those on the Additional Learning Needs Register are formally assessed by the ALNCo yearly with Individual Educational Plans ( IEPs) drawn up and reviewed yearly.
The Results:~
• A teacher’s assessment for ALL Attainment Targets in the 4 core subjects will provide you with an independent picture of the progress your child is making against National Curriculum standards and will let you know how your child is doing compared to other children of the same age, within the school and nationally.
National Tests
Every May, pupils from Year 2 to Year 6 and beyond, are tested in Reading and mathematics (procedural and reasoning). It is extremely important that pupils attend school during this period and therefore we do not give permission for family holidays during this period. The test results are used internally as a diagnostic tool. As a result to analysing the results, teachers are able to target the skills which require further development after the tests and into the following educational year. Parents are notified of the results at the same time they receive the annual pupils’ end of year reports in July. One can compare pupils’ individual results against those of average National Results.
WHAT SHOULD YOUR CHILD'S REPORT TELL YOU?
As a parent you are entitled to know how your child is doing at school and each year you will receive a written report on his or her progress and achievement. This will contain information about: • progress in all National Curriculum subjects studied • progress in all other subjects and activities including Religious Education • an attendance record • Literacy and Numeracy progress • PSHE progress across the curriculum • for pupils at the end of a Key Stage , the teacher assessments, showing levels in the core subjects • the overall results of pupils of the same age in the school • for comparison purposes, the national results for the previous year Mid-way through the school year, i.e., in February, the
school holds Open Evenings during which parents are
invited to visit the school to inspect their child's work and to discuss their child's progress with the teacher. YOU ARE ENCOURAGED TO MAKE EVERY EFFORT TO ATTEND.
TRANSFERRING FROM PRIMARY TO SECONDARY SCHOOL Year 6 Pupils and their parents receive forms via the local secondary schools regarding choosing and registering, for September the following year. Our hope is that all our pupils in the Welsh stream will go on to Ysgol y Creuddyn – the Welsh Secondary school. It is imperative that the parents of our Year 6 pupils fill and hand in the forms promptly in order to ensure a place in their chosen school. Open evenings are held in the secondary schools and at Pencae for prospective new pupils and their parents, where members from the schools are there to answer questions. Year 6 are invited to taster days/week at their chosen school and Yr 5 a taster day during the Summer Term. The pupils will also have opportunities to work with teachers from the secondary schools at Pencae before they have their taster days.
SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR CHILDREN WITH ADDITIONAL LEARNING NEEDS
A special educational need is defined as: • A significantly greater difficulty in learning than the majority of children of the same age OR • A disability which either prevents or hinders a child from making use of educational facilities of a kind provided for children of the same age in schools within the area of the LEA.
st The 1 April 2002 Code of Practice and the An additional learning needs teacher (A.L.N.T) is Additional Learning Needs and Disability Act 2001 employed for this purpose for a substantial part of (SENDA 2001) places responsibility on schools and the school week. Pencae School has an Additional Governing bodies to make reasonable adjustment Learning Needs resource centre which caters for and provision for the protection of children from pupils (with moderate learning difficulties in KS2) discrimination against their disability, be it mental from Pencae and from neighbouring schools. or physical impairment.
It is the policy of Pencae School to promote access to a full and varied curriculum for each child in accordance with the 1993 Education Act and the revised edition of the National Curriculum. The school has a Strategic Equality Plan which is reviewed yearly by members of the school community and every 3 years by the wider community, encompassing as many disabilities, ethnic/ religious groups, etc as possible who help us create an action plan for improvement via a questionnaire. There is a school procedure that ensures the recognition of children with additional learning needs. This involves supporting children who have specific learning difficulties as well as the needs of the more able child. The procedure that we follow in identifying those children who need support is as follows:-
Teachers closely study the development of each The Code of Practice (SENDA 2001) states a new child in his/her Reception year and in their first procedure for the referral of pupils for direct individual term in Year 1. They monitor their educational support. This is through the school's provisions for School Action. and S.A. Plus. Teachers are available to progress and identify those who have additional explain the full implications of the policy during Parent's needs. Extra support is then offered to these evenings. Reports are provided annually on the children's pupils. We assess all pupils at the end of year 2 with school work and parents are regularly invited to school to the Colour Matrix assessment tool which will discuss their child's progress. Parents whose children highlight pupils who could well be achieving at least have been placed on the School Action/plus Register are average scores etc, yet are underachieving due to invited to the school for discussion regarding their child’s dyslexia for example. Individual Educational Plan (IEP) on two different Over the years, we have identified several pupils occasions during the year. If the school feels that early on in their education, following this further communication is needed at any time a letter will be sent home or the parents will be contacted over the assessment, and ensure that more able pupils are telephone. identified, even if their scores do not reflect it yet.
In accordance with the 1993 Education Act, it is We carry out a further test which gives us greater in depth assessments of pupil’s inherent ability and statutory for the school to keep an Additional their strengths and weaknesses in how they best learning needs Register, which states the level of learn via the CAT 4 test given to all our Yr 4 pupils. support required by the child. Every school has an This test gives the teachers a good overall picture appointed teacher who is responsible for the of individual pupils’ abilities and further supports provision of additional learning needs education our targeting of pupils with Additional Learning within the school. This person is the school's Needs, Underachieving pupils and More Able pupils. Additional Learning Needs Co-ordinator, (ALNCo). In addition, teachers constantly assess pupils, and Mrs Anna Williams is the ALNCo at Pencae School will discuss concerns with the ALNCo at any given and she enrols the children on the school's age. additional learning needs register. If you feel that you would like outside advice on Pencae school remains committed to recognising the how best to help your child if she/ he has an individual needs of each child so that all pupils additional learning need, please ask for our policy, achieve their full potential. It is of paramount contact your child’s teacher, the school’s ALNCo importance that parents express the same interest or Miss Vanessa Williams (Governor). in their children's work so that a strong relationship can be established between us.
If you feel that you would like outside advice on how best to help your child if EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES and ACCESSIBILITY
We strongly believe in equal opportunities for every member of the School. The basis of our policy is that the development of any individual should not suffer due to attitude or prejudice. The school has an Equal Opportunities and accessibility Plan which is available on request. It explains further steps to increase access to the by pupils, staff and visitors to the school. We strive to be accessible to all pupils with ramps to the hall, top block and main lower buildings. Unfortunately, pupils in wheelchairs cannot access our 1st floor. We have disabled toilets (3) in all areas which are accessible by ramps. All toilets are cleaned to a high standard daily. The school is clean and in good repair.
If any parents or carer has additional needs relating to disability and/or language, cultural issues which they require assistance at a particular school event, please contact the head teacher to arrange the assistance requested.
Pencae’s Strategic Equality Action Plan Pencae Governors follow a Strategic Equality d Summer 2017 to Spring 2020 Action Plan, set out every 3 years following input by the community via a questionnaire and 1. Ensuring school is accessible for the visually impaired and physically meeting, and reviewed yearly by the school disabled. community. 2. To raise pupil awareness of equality – focusing on gender issues eg. The school aims to ensure equal opportunities Transgender, Gay, Lesbian and Bisexual/ Different Families. (Age appropriate discussions) to all pupils, staff and visitors regardless of their social background, religion, gender, 3. Continue to monitor and set action plans when needed, to close the sexual orientation, race, and ability (mental or gap between different groups of pupils. Particularly FSM and Non- FSM physical). (higher outcomes/levels) pupils and Girls and Boys.
Pupil Development Grant 2019 – 2020
The school will utilise the PDG allocation to target the needs of pupils who are disadvantaged and to close the gap between their performance and the performance of other pupils.
Pupil Deprivation Grant Allocation £37,000
Employ classroom assistants to support targeted pupils and keep classroom sizes down. £37,000
HOW CAN I FIND OUT MORE?
Parents can ask to see copies of the National Curriculum documents and the Religious Education syllabus. You may also find copies of the National Curriculum documents on the Welsh Government Website.
WHICH DOCUMENTS DO YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO SEE?
You have the right, if you so wish, to see numerous documents - The Welsh Office Circulars, The Local Education Authorities Policies, the school's HMI reports, programmes of study, schemes of work and the Parent's Yearly Report from Governors and the Policies and Aims of the Board of Governors e.g SENDA, Discipline,Data Protection, Equal Opportunities and the school’s, Sex education policy. You can also ask to see information in relation to our main School Development Priorities and view a report on how we feel we are developing, following the previous inspection. The Freedom of Information Act 2000 requires publicly funded bodies, including schools, to be clear about the information they publish. The school has a Freedom of Information Publication Scheme setting out all the information we publish on a regular basis and where to find it. Ask the school office to let you see the publication scheme or provide you with a copy free of charge.
SEX EDUCATION (There will be changes to our policy during 2019-2020 – in line with the draft Relationships and Sexuality all Wales Policy and we will be informing parents ).
No formal sex education is given at the School as the Governors believe that such information should not be presented to young children until Year 5 as a 'subject' out of context. Any questions asked by a pupil will, however, be discussed sensitively and as openly as considered appropriate to the context and the pupil's age and maturity.
Every effort will be made to ensure that such information as is given is presented in such a manner as to encourage pupils to have due regard to the value of family life and to foster one's self-respect and respect towards others.
The Governors have taken into account the need for children to study living things as part of the National Curriculum's programme of study in science and do not feel that this statement hinders such studies.
Pupils in Years 5/6 are shown a video (SENSE) and given an opportunity to talk and ask questions on ‘reaching puberty' by the School Nurse and Headteacher, Deputy or Yr 6 teacher on receiving parental consent. This talk obviously introduces the pupils to basic sex education. The girls are given additional time to ask questions away from the boys at the end of the session.
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION The School is a Church in Wales School established by a Trust Deed and maintained by the local Education Authority. It reflects the Dual System, a partnership between the Church and Central and Local Government, which makes up the Maintained System of education in this country. The School is designated as a Voluntary Controlled School. Its connection with the Church in Wales is as follows:
Firstly, the Church in Wales has three representatives on the Board of Governors. These representatives have the support and guidance of the Diocesan Council for Education and its Schools Committee. These latter bodies collaborate closely with the National Society which has always been responsible for Church Schools and the developments of education in all its aspects within them, devoting special attention to the essential contribution of Christian Education to the development of the child.
Secondly, Religious Education according to the Agreed Syllabus is presented in the School but also parents have the opportunity to request that their children be instructed in accordance with the Church in Wales's own syllabus.
The School co-operates with the Parish Church when Christian Festivals are observed. It maintains official contact with the Church in Wales through the Diocesan Education Officer as well as through the appointed Diocesan Visitors.
Parents by law, have the right to withdraw their children from Religious Education lessons and from all Religious Services. If a parent wishes to withdraw a child, they must discuss the matter with the Headteacher. If a child is withdrawn, we ensure that they have alternative work to do.
COLLECTIVE WORSHIP
Monday - Thursday Individual Classes Various Friday Whole school come together in hall for collective 2.10 - 2.50 worship guided by Head/Deputy and occasionally by the diocese vicar Days vary Collective Hymns and Prayers ( Juniors / Infants separate)
PHYSICAL EDUCATION IN THE NATIONAL CURRICULUM
PHYSICAL EDUCATION IS A STATUTORY SUBJECT FOR PUPILS BETWEEN THE AGES OF 4-16 YEARS OLD AND IS AN IMPORTANT PART OF THE NATIONAL CURRICULUM.
Ysgol Pencae concentrates on teaching • All pupils receive 2 periods of Physical Physical Education skills to children and Education per week. working up towards small group games and competitive games. We emphasis aspects • Throughout the year, pupils will follow modules like Health and Safety and Social Skills in games, gymnastics, dance, athletics and Thinking Skills as well as Physical Activity swimming. The juniors also follow modules of during the lessons. Outdoor Education inc. orienteering.
Erbyn diwedd Blwyddyn 6 y gobaith yw y bydd disgyblion Ysgol Pencae wedi cael sylfaen gadarn mewn Gemau, Dawns a Gymnasteg, a phrofiadau gwerthfawr mewn Nofio ac Athletau
Here are some important points to remember :- During the early years you will be told by letter which day your child will have a Physical Education lesson. The school suggests that children bring their PE kit in a light bag with their names clearly printed on the bag and the clothing Every child is expected to change into suitable clothing for these lessons, (see Item on School Uniform and PE/Swimming Kit) In order to persuade children of the need to bring a suitable games kit and therefore take part in the Physical Education lesson, Mr Jones will often keep a register of children not partaking in lessons. Written reminders may be sent out if a child misses 3 sessions within a term because of failure to bring a suitable PE kit. Occasionally children may miss a lesson due to illness or injury. If so parents are asked to write an explanatory note explaining why the pupil cannot take part. We are keen to be informed of any medical conditions which should be taken into consideration during Physical Education lessons. Parents are asked to note that children should not wear any form of jewellery during Physical Education lessons (except for ear studs).
Swimming
Every class from Yr3 – Yr 6 will go swimming daily for a fortnight each year. The children who go swimming will be placed in their ability groups in order to gain maximum benefit and improve from one year to another. Pupils who are unlikely to be able to swim 25m before the end of Yr 6 may be given additional lessons. Parents are asked to contribute towards the cost of travel to and from the swimming pool.
Competitive Games As children grow older they become keen to compete against other schools in Competitive Games. Ysgol Pencae recognises this and will send school teams to compete in County competitions and friendly matches against other schools.
The school relies on parental help and support in achieving this aim and we seek your support in making certain that your child makes the best of his/her opportunities at Ysgol Pencae. We hope to continue to receive the support we have received during previous years.
THE SCHOOL’S LANGUAGE General Aims
The Education Authority operates a bilingual policy in all its schools. The revised curriculum 2008 also supports bilingualism, with Welsh 2nd language a core subject. 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 a part. All educational establishments within the county should reflect and reinforce the language policy in their administration, their social life and pastoral arrangements as well as their academic provision.
Pupils are awarded a ‘Tocyn Iaith’ (a Welsh point) when heard speaking Welsh outside formal lessons. Every week a child from each class is awarded a certificate – Welsh Speaker of the Week and the class with most points, are awarded sole use of a box full of items such as Welsh dragon pencils, Welsh DVDs and CDs etc. Each year, a pupil from each year group is awarded Welsh Speaker of the Year. We hold a Being Welsh is Cool week, with various activities, including an Eisteddfod, Chairing Ceremony and Welsh disco etc. that grew from our work with the National Welsh Charter Awards. Specific Aims – Nursery Education
To ensure, through sensitively structured provision and organisation, each child receives a firm foundation in Welsh in order to enable him/her in due course to attain the aim of full bilingualism.
Specific Aims – Foundation Phase
To extend the children's mother tongue and to develop their second language.
Once the child has settled into the school, attention is given to developing his oral skills in the second language, chiefly by taking advantage of the opportunities that arise daily in the classroom.
At first, we concentrate on developing the spoken language but the school's intention is to ensure that all children will be literate in both languages as soon as possible.
Pupils in Year 2, who are non-Welsh speaking latecomers to Pencae School, attend the Welsh Language Unit at Ysgol Dolgarrog on starting Yr 3.
Specific Aims – Juniors
To consolidate and develop each child's Welsh and English capabilities in all aspects, both active and receptive. Special provision can be made for junior late-comers whereby they may attend the Language Unit at Ysgol Dolgarrog for a term and join the Welsh stream on their return. In the Junior Department of the school increasing use will be made of the second language in all its forms, and we will ensure that every child encounters a variety of experiences in both languages, and applies them both in various contexts. The language balance will vary somewhat in nature from term to term and from year to year, but the school's aim will be to ensure that every child can speak, read and write about most aspects of the curriculum and about his life and experience both inside and outside the school in Welsh and English.
Every pupil in this school is expected to learn Welsh and English to the best of their capability. When non-Welsh speaking newcomers come to the area, special arrangements are made for them, and the Education Authority will help the school with that work. For yr 3 pupils upwards, there’s a place for the pupils at the County Welsh Unit in Dolgarrog for a term after they start with us at Pencae. Welsh is used as the natural language of school life in its formal and informal aspects. We always try to make sure that children who do not yet have a command of the Welsh language, fully understand the situations they are in, and we give special attention to any individual who has language difficulties.
HOMEWORK
The junior classes often receive homework (weekly for Yrs 5/6). They will also work on particular themes or projects. It is hoped that the home will co-operate to encourage the child in his/ her work. From time to time, a particular activity requires information by parents, relations and neighbours, or requires interviewing and research work by the child. It is appreciated that the child is the responsibility of the home during these hours and parents' willingness or unwillingness to co-operate will be understood in view of this responsibility. Occasionally a particular teacher may ask a child to do additional work in order to overcome some weakness or to concentrate on a special aspect of work. At such times it is hoped that the full co-operation of the home will be forthcoming together with encouragement to the child to do the work. The teachers often put a lot of thought and effort into preparing and marking homework and therefore the school request that parents inform us if the homework has not been completed. This is primarily for us to ensure that the pupil has indeed informed you about the work.
WE ACTIVELY PROMOTE PARENT/PUPIL PAIRED READING - it should be on a regular basis, e.g. 10 minutes per day as opposed to one long session now and again. Quite a number of pupils each year take ‘Reading Diaries ‘ home with them for you to read with them daily, the school in turn, reads with your child each day.
ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES The school hopes to ensure the co-operation and the support of parents with all the additional activities arranged. The school offers a variety of activities which are formally arranged, on a regular basis e.g.
Breakfast Club Open for all from 8.15am - 8.45am daily. (run by the school) After School Club 3.00pm-6.00pm daily – run by external agency. Contact Mrs Grainne Mc Donagh at Clwb Enfys – 01248 681918 Football, Netball and Rugby Clubs Lunchtimes and After School
Cookery Club Yr.2 (Spring / Summer Term) Dancing Clubs F.Ph. – Monday evenings; KS2 – Wednesday evenings
Swimming – All pupils in KS 2 receive swimming lessons – every day for a fortnight. Dragon Sport activities e.g. Tennis. The school also arranges inter-house athletics meetings for both the Infant and Junior departments at the school. Cycling Proficiency tests - Year 5 Instrumental Lessons - Junior Department which are held during school hours.
The school has officially signed up to be a part of a PESS school (Physical Education and Sports School) which will encourage work between the feeder schools of Aberconwy school which ensures additional funding for both training staff and developing pupils’ physical well being.
The school cannot accept responsibility for supervising children at the end of meetings of the above clubs/societies, and parents/guardians are asked to ensure that arrangements are made for children to be taken home.
Breakfast Club The school runs a breakfast club for Year 0 – 6 . Opening time – 8.15 – 8.45 p.m. Contact school for further details and an enrolment form. ( NB Please note that the gates are only open between 8.15 and 8.25 – if later than this – pupils cannot enter until 8.45a.m) School Activities Held Annually
Autumn Term Year 3 Harvest Thanksgiving Festival, held at St. David’s Church Foundation Phase Christmas Concerts held in school Year 5 Nativity Service held at St. David’s Church Christmas Fayre Sponsored Activity towards school funds Carol singing in the Old People’s Homes Concert at Noddfa – a refuge run by the Sisters of the Sacred heart of Mary Taking part in various functions in Penmaenmawr e.g Women’s Institute Christmas Service and The Mayor’s Christmas Concert
Urdd Eisteddfods inc. crafts Spring Term Collection towards a charity (chosen by School Council ) Foundation Phase school Eisteddfod Governors’ Learning Walks – open morning for Governors to meet the pupils
School end of year Educational Visits inc. Yrs 5/6 Outdoor pursuits Day in e.g Summer Term Nant Bwlch y Haearn School Inter-House Sports Day Cycling Proficiency Courses Summer Fayre Taster Day for new pupils and their parents and present pupils to move classes for the day Nursery and reception class open morning – a chance for parents to see what the children have been up to.
These activities are open to all pupils who are, in the Headteacher's opinion, ready and mature enough to take part in them.
PASTORAL CARE Children are placed specifically in the care of their class teacher but naturally the whole staff take an active part in pupils’ welfare. We encourage children to show self-discipline and respect towards others. In this respect, we know we have the support of parents.
Pastoral care is an integral part of the teachers’ duties. Duties include:
i. Registering the pupils both morning and afternoon ii. Making sure that children adhere to rules such as being present and on time. iii. Making sure that children are given important information and letters to take home. iv. Presenting parents with a written report about their child’s development at the end of the school year. Every child is placed in the care of a particular teacher, but the whole staff endeavour to take care of all pupils' well-being. The School’s Young Persons’ Health Advisor and Nurses, Dentist, Educational Social Worker, Attendance Officer etc. often visits the school to check on children’s general wellbeing, cleanliness, and eyesight, attendance etc. When the school has worries regarding a pupil (worries which may not yet come under the jurisdiction of the Social Services) we refer pupils via Health and Educational Social Workers. A representative from the Health Authority also visits annually to check hearing. Children are encouraged to live and eat healthily; therefore only fruit, cheese and vegetables are allowed as a mid-morning snack. Milk is offered, free of charge to all children in the infant department. We actively promote the healthy dinners prepared here and allow pupils to carry water bottles in class and at playtimes. Fresh drinking water is available in every class. Please inform school of any medical conditions that require a different approach. ( NB – please cut grapes lenghthways prior to sending to school )
We follow the Promoting Alternative Thinking Strategies (PATHS) to develop pupils’ social skills.
CHILD PROTECTION – We follow the All Wales Procedures. If we have a child protection concern we always make a referral to Social Services. The key Child protection officer at Pencae School is the Head, Ms Sian Hughes Evans, the 2nd and who is also the Governors’ representative is the deputy – Mrs Ffion Davies and the County key person is Mrs Sian Pineau. WE DISCUSS CHILD PROTECTION ISSUES WITHIN LESSONS IN LINE WITH PUPILS’ AGES AND UNDERSTANDING TO ENSURE THAT WE SUPPORT THE PREVENTION OF CHILD PROTECTION ISSUES. Ms Sian Hughes Evans is designated as having responsibility for promoting the educational achievement of looked after children.
BEHAVIOUR
Every child is expected to contribute towards creating a harmonious environment by: 1. Being thoughtful, kind and courteous in their relationships with both children and adults. 2. Refraining from using foul language and answering back. 3. Not inflicting wilful damage or interfere with other people’s belongings. 4. Making every effort to keep the school tidy – to place rubbish in bins (recycling bins for paper). 5. Not bringing personal belongings to school, e.g. toys and games without permission. 6. We actively promote healthy eating and only fruit / cheese etc allowed at break times. Infants receive free milk daily. No additives are used by canteen.
DICIPLINE The LA policy on discipline along with our own policy outlines how children are disciplined in this school. All staff are responsible for pupil discipline and if necessary, concern tha class teacher, the Deputy or Head . This is our key code of conduct poster which is displayed around the school.
In order to ensure that our aims can be met, we continually evaluate what we offer our pupils in terms of their learning by formulating action plans and setting targets to constantly improve what and how we develop all aspects of their education. We also assess the way we deal with issues such as how we handle discipline and behaviour. Our aim is to praise children whenever possible and reward good behaviour.
The school has a detailed anti bullying policy which is based on the county policy. Please request a copy for further details. Please note that, very occasionally, we may need to restrain pupils at Pencae school if we feel that a pupil is going to harm themselves or others, or that they are badly disrupting an activity and refusing to remove themselves from the room / area. Please request our detailed policy on restraint if you so wish.
How do we ensure good classroom behaviour and consistent discipline throughout the school? Guidelines that will enable us to gain consistency throughout the school in our “Rewards and consequences” system.
General Class Rules
Follow instructions immediately **At the end of the week a time has been set aside to reward all well-behaved pupils during ‘Golden Time’. Keep hands and feet away from others and sit During this session, pupils will be experiencing an array of properly interesting and fun Activities.
Listen and speak pleasantly to others All pupils who miss out on their ‘Golden Time’ / playtime due to poor behaviour attend a Nurture Group. Ignore silly behaviour
Put your hand up to speak instead of shouting
out
Rewards Consequences (each lesson starts with a clean sheet) Praise from staff After general praise to class and “the look” where necessary House points – A warning (quietly and without a fuss to the individual child) Stickers Two minutes out Certificates and cups Five minutes out Work in another class, if 3 times within a term then - “Helpwr Heddiw” and monitor (Today’s Contact parents but make sure head knows helper) Head to deal with matter Golden Time If necessary - Rewards will vary slightly from class to Call parents in class but we must ensure that we are Behaviour chart consistent in what we reward Individual plan A letter home to parents to praise Exclusion at lunchtime children who have behaved consistently Exclusion for fixed period well and set a good example (every half Contact other agencies term) (Order of above flexible, depending on pupil and situation)
Physical Education Art Design and Technology Follow instruction immediately Follow instruction immediately Hand up for attention Walk sensibly to the hall or yard Sit/Stand in a space to wait for instruction No walking about without permission Ignore silly behaviour Hands and feet away from others Keep feet, hands and equipment away from others unless told otherwise Respect the effort and work of others Best children to help with keeping equipment Best children to help with tidying up
After Break Time Attending the Service When the bell rings enter the school quietly Walk quietly along the corridor Walk quietly along the corridor Enter and exit the hall quietly Ignore silly behaviour Sit without annoying others Wait quietly to receive instruction Listen carefully to what is being said
Hand up to speak
Trips and Visits Clubs including Breakfast Club
Things to discuss with children prior to visit Follow staff instructions
Follow the instruction of staff or volunteer Ignore silly behaviour
Ignore silly behaviour Enter and exit the hall quietly
Respect and be aware of other people present No running around (breakfast club)
If separated from group “stay put” Respect and be aware of other people present
How do we ensure good breaktime behaviour?
1. The Playtime Rules formulated by the Pupils are as follows: • Be gentle, don’t hurt anyone. • Don’t say nasty things. • Let people play in peace. • Let people join in with your games. • Stay on the yard where you can be seen and be safe. • Keep our school tidy and use the rubbish bins. 2. All staff use ‘Break time Behaviour charts’ in accordance to the above rules. • If a child breaks a school rule, a member of staff will have a ‘quiet word’ with them and not this in the Playtime Behaviour File. • If the same child offends again a tick is placed by 1 which means that he/she needs to remain with a member of staff for 5 minutes. • A subsequent tick on 2 requires that the child remains with a member of staff for 10 minutes. A child who goes on to break the rules once again will remain in the hall over lunchtime. • If a child continues to break the rules he/she loses all breaks for 2 days and parents are notified if deemed appropriate. If there is a serious breach of discipline e.g an unprovoked attack on another pupil or refusal to follow staff’s instructions, parents are contacted immediately. • Parents are requested to attend a meeting at the school to discuss their child’s behaviour with staff and other agencies if needed. • 3 incidences of poor behaviour within a term and the parent will be requested to make arrangements for their child to be picked up at 12.20a.m and dropped off at 1:20p.m. for a specified period. If a parent disagrees with this arrangement, we will have to formally exclude their child during the lunchtime period and notify the Local Education Authority. 3. At the end of the week, pupils who have behaved well throughought the week, receive Golden Time. 4. Pupils are to walk only in canteen at lunchtime. Pupils on sandwiches to sit and start eating, whilst pupils on lunch, queue in an orderly fashion. Infants on 1st sitting leave at 12.40 and the Infants then come in. All pupils are to place hand up if they need anything. Pupils are allowed to talk freely as we feel that this develops their social interaction – they are too busy playing on the yard and too busy working in the class! 5. Pen Pals are appointed from Year 6. They sport the School’s yellow vests and are easily recognisable. These pupils are there in order to assist pupils who are sad and lonely or who need a little chat or comfort when upset. The ‘Pen Pals’ seek the assistance of an adult when required. 6. All classes are equipped with ‘Rainy Day games’, such as chess and Connect 4. 7 . Pupils who have behaved well all term receive a letter of commendation from their class teacher.
Personal and Social and Health Education
The above schemes have been endorsed by the school’s Governing Body. We all see these as positive ways of ensuring a harmonious school. We all want to see our pupils receiving rewards and for them to partake in all the ‘Golden Time‘ sessions. We stress that we wish for ALL our pupils to be happy in Pencae, however it all comes down to the individual pupil. If they follow the school rules they will receive their rewards, however if they choose not to follow these rules, it is they themselves that have lost these rewards.
The school follows the PATHS course and each week all pupils are involved in class discussions relating to feelings for themselves and others, obviously concentrating on good behaviour.
School Council
The school holds elections each year to nominate pupils to be members for the school council which meet often to discuss pupils’ views and wishes for the better good of the school as a whole.
Eco-Council
The school holds elections each year to nominate pupils to be members for the school eco-council which meet often to discuss how we can become more sustainable. The pupils are in charge of different areas e.g rubbish, over use of our lights etc
The Welsh Charter Council
Pupils in the top class make up the Council and are a part of strategic pnanning to take us through the different awards. We have recently achieved the Bronze award and will be aiming to receive the silver award next. The charter’s purpose is to promote the use of Welsh naturally by pupils outside the classroom and also outside the home.
CHARGING FOR SCHOOL ACTIVITIES The Governing Body acknowledges that according to the Education Act 1988, the school cannot request payment for the following: school entrance education of children during school hours materials/equipment required for lessons during school hours
Occasional trips/ activities during school hours are not necessarily deemed to be essential to the course work, however are thought to be beneficial. According to the Education Act 1988, the school does not have the right to claim payment for such activities, however, the school has a right to:
ask for a voluntary contribution towards the organisational cost, e.g. swimming transport ask for an outside agent to organise the trip
The headteacher is authorised to request payments for the following:
individual music lessons - Letters sent out yearly to offer lessons and to notify of costs. Families receiving child credit etc and have siblings taking lessons, will pay less. activities held outside school hours according to the terms of the act in the event of damage to any part of the school buildings following a pupil's behaviour when a pupil loses or damages a book, equipment or property belonging to the school
The Headteacher and the Governing Body have the right to cancel any organised activity if it is found that a low contribution would result in a substantial loss.
To ensure the safety of pupils on trips /visits, we follow our policy closely and request the approval of the County Advisor when organising trips which are of an ‘adventurous’ nature or overnight. Parents fill a consent form for all general trips/visits within county including walks down to the village etc when their child first starts at Pencae school. When parents and staff support us by taking children in their car to attend e.g sports activities, School Council meetings etc. we ask for parental consent from all parents of the pupils involved.
SCHOOL MEDICAL INSPECTION The inspection usually takes place in January of each year when every 5 year old pupil plus a number of 'referrals' amongst the pupils in the Junior Department are medically examined. Parents who consent to their children being examined by the school doctor are invited to attend the medical examination.
Periodically the school nurse calls at the school to carry out hygiene inspections. Similarly vision and hearing tests are carried out prior to the School Medical Inspection.
If you feel that your child (aged between 7 and 13 ) has a weight issue you may phone ‘Mend’ which run FREE fun activities which aims to get your child fitter and healthier . Phone 0800 2300 263 or go to www.mendcentral.org for more details.
HOME AND SCHOOL CONTACT This school cannot succeed without the support of parents. We therefore urge you to take an interest in your children's education and to support the school in its work and its public activities. We actively encourage parental help within the classrooms throughout the school and letters of invitation are sent periodically. We are also very fortunate to have a small band of parents/volunteers who call themselves, ‘The Craftea Conversationalists’ who make beautiful items for sale during our Fayres. New members are always welcome – contact the headteacher.
INFORMATION Circulars of forthcoming events and information regarding interesting occurrences which have happened will be sent out. These will be found on our website. Photos of interesting occurances inc. pupils who have been awarded can be seen on Twitter. (@Ysgol_PencaePen)
TAKE TIME TO CHAT WITH YOUR CHIL D ABOUT THEIR DAY
Any parent who wishes to discuss a pupil can contact the school via text, phone or note. Pupils are given information regarding the term’s work at the start of each term and we hope that parents/guardians support the child in finding information relating to the theme/project and offer their own suggestions to support us.
SCHOOL UNIFORM There is a School Uniform in Pencae School. Contrary to what parents of prospective pupils might believe, the school uniform is not dearer to buy than other forms of children's wear. Indeed it can work out cheaper. We also firmly believe that the uniform raises the tone of the school. Suffice to say, the parents obviously agree in that since its introduction, we have only the occasional one or two pupils at Pencae school who do not wear the uniform. If a parent decides against their child wearing the uniform, the Governors hope that the child will wear tidy, plain items of clothing with no large logos/pictures/writing etc and certainly not excessively trendy which could cause friction amongst their peers.
School Uniform
Skirt - Black or Navy Pinafore - Black or Navy Trousers - Black or Navy Shorts - Black or Navy Sweat-shirt - Navy Zip fleece - Navy Cardigan – Navy or Yellow Polo shirt - Yellow Jogging Pants -- Black or Navy Checked dress - Yellow-white or Navy-white P.E – Plain shorts and T-shirt – preferably Navy or White Track-suit - Black or Navy Reading bag – Navy P.E bag – Navy Shoes/ pumps / trainers/ boots – Black or Navy and suitable for jogging/playing football etc
The uniform with the school emblem is available to order over the phone or online from Brodwaith, Sional, Boppers and MyClothing(www.myclothing.com). Parents can also purchase items from stores such as Asda without the emblem which tend to be much cheaper.
REMEMBER TO LABEL ITEMS OF CLOTHING and bags! If we find an item left on the yard with a name on it – the item is given back to the child. No name – and the item will be sent to the lost item box.
P.E./GAMES/SWIMMING
For outdoor activities during inclement weather, a tracksuit or plain sweatshirt and joggers are advised. In fine weather or during indoor activities, a plain t-shirt and shorts are needed. Suitable footwear such as trainers are required for all outdoor activities. Boys should wear trunks to swim. Plimsolls without shoelaces or with Velcro straps are ideal especially during infant years. Trainers are not advisable for infants as they restrict feet. Please help us by ensuring that all your children's clothes are name tagged and check that they come home wearing their own clothes. Please send your children's games clothes in distinctive bags so that they will recognise and find them easily. Remember bags need to be large enough to hold their whole school uniform while they wear their kit. It is no joke trying to help up to 30 children find and wear their clothes when many of the bags are the same, particularly shopping bags, which also break easily. Please help your children to learn to dress themselves and if possible could be please help them practise folding their clothes and popping them in the bags. Hopefully there will then be a lot less lost property!
JEWELLERY
Please limit your child's jewellery worn to school as it can cause problems. During all physical education sessions NO JEWELLERY is to be worn for safety reasons. In the case of newly pierced ears, they can be worn for 6 weeks, (taped over by elastoplasts provided from home). Please remember that this is for your child's safety.
MOBILE PHONES
Mobile phones are NOT to be brought to school. If a child brings a phone to school by mistake he/she must bring directly to office. We may consider special circumstances if requested by letter from parents and the phone kept in office.
CAKES
As we cannot guarantee the hygiene during preparation and contents of homemade cakes and bakes, please do not bring into school for distribution, e.g. amongst your child’s class. Only shop bought/packaged cakes will be accepted for this purpose.
VERRUCA
Please send your child to school with a plaster for his/her verruca on the days he/she has indoor games.
HAIR
The Governors have decided to request that ALL pupils with hair longer than their shoulders, wear their hair tied up with a band. This is on the grounds of health and safety issues (e.g. PE / technology lessons) and another way of trying to stop the spread of head lice.
DOGS
No dogs to be brought onto school grounds. May be tied for a while to post at the entrance of the carpark. SAMPLE (1) HEADLICE LETTER TO PARENTS
Dear Parents,
IMPORTANT – HEADLICE I am sorry to have to inform you once again that the head lice problem is particularly bad amongst pupils in your child’s class. I have informed the parents over the years that head lice is becoming an increasing problem throughout Britain. It is the parents’ responsibility to treat their child’s scalp immediately and to ensure that all eggs and lice have been thoroughly combed out. Parents have been notified that if we suspect that a pupil’s head is infested, we now telephone home and ask the parent to take the pupil out of school until the problem is under control.
IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT YOU CHECK YOUR CHILD’S HAIR STRAIGHT AFTER SCHOOL TODAY AND MAKE SURE THAT IT IS FREE FROM LICE
SAMPLE (2) HEADLICE LETTER TO PARENTS
As part of our attempt to try and control head lice in school, we now let our parents know if we suspect that their child has a problem.
I cannot be certain but I think I saw ( ) eggs ( ) lice in your child’s hair today as I was working with him/her. I apologise if my eyes have deceived me, however, I am sure that you would agree
that it is better to be safe than sorry. Thank you very much for your co-operation and I can trust that the problem, if indeed there is one, will be dealt with.
The Governors have noted parents concerns regarding head lice at Pencae. They have decided that we are to telephone parents of pupils who we think have head lice walking in their hair and ask them to take their child home. When a child is ill we do the same. We as teachers, nor the school nurse have the right to look through your child’s hair, therefore, by sending them home we can ensure that you the parent can inspect their hair carefully and start the process of combing their hair daily and taking the child to the doctor to receive a prescription for medication if needed. Children need to return to school directly the process has started, i.e. the following morning at the latest.
The school nurse advises that a treatment of combing hair plastered with conditioner, every 5 days, is the best way of ridding the hair of infestations. Medication DOES NOT kill the eggs, only live lice, therefore by combing every 5 days, you are ridding the hair of any newly hatching lice.
PUNCTUALITY AND ATTENDANCE
Pupils should be on the school premises at least 5 minutes before the start of the morning and afternoon sessions. On arrival at school, the pupils should go directly to the playground. Parents who escort their children to school should not congregate behind the school gates, but bid their farewells outside the school and not wait until the bell rings. In this way, the school entrance can be kept clear for essential callers such as the school bus, taxis and delivery vehicles to the school canteen.
1. Attending school regularly is extremely important. Children find it very difficult to 'catch up' if they are forever missing vital lessons.
2. By law, parents must send their children to school. Parents who fail to ensure that their children attend school on a regular basis can face prosecution.
3. It is also the parents responsibility to ensure that their children arrive promptly, dressed neatly and in an appropriate condition to work.
4. It is the parents’ responsibility to notify the school of their child's absenteeism from school.
A text / telephone message or a written explanation from the parents is required – this must have arrived by the SECOND morning of absence, but preferably first thing on the first day. School tends to text on the 1st morning for an explanation if none received.
We use SIMS to registers pupils and an automated letter is produced every Friday to parents of all pupils with absenteeism without reason (even if the pupil has returned to school). If the school has not received an explanation by the FIFTH day of absence, a letter is sent which reminds parents of their legal responsibilities etc. The Educational Social Worker will be contacted by the TENTH day of absence.
5. The school has assistance from the Health Education Officers and the Local Education Authority Social Education Officers will call regularly to monitor as well as work with pupils whose attendance is poor.
6. By law, the school alone can approve absences. We must receive a letter, texts or a telephone call from you, notifying us of your child's absence and give a reason why. When notified by telephone, a form is filled in and sent to the child's class teacher.
Absenteeism is placed into two categories:-
Authorised - e.g. Illness, doctor's appointment Unauthorised - e.g. Shopping, 'staying home to help'
7. The register is closed at 10.00 am and 1.30 pm
8. A holiday form is available from the Headteacher, however, you must consider your intention to take a holiday outside school holidays carefully. Holidays will only be authorised if there are exceptional circumstances. There is a 10 day maximum allowed per year. (see copy of letter sent to parents on next page)
9. All medical / dental appointments should be made outside school hours as far as possible.
10. Attendance is now computerised and letters requesting parents to give reasons as to why pupils were not present are automatically produced. Letters notifying parents of their child’s low attendance are also automatically produced.
The Governors would like to remind you of a few school rules as regards pupil attendance changes in relation to in accordance with L.E.A. guidelines and section 444 of the 1996 Education Act.
Section 444 states that:
“If a child of compulsory school age who is a registered pupil at a school fails to attend regularly at the school, his parent is guilty of an offence.”
Pencae Governors have authorised the Headteacher to ask the County to fine parents of pupils who have too many unauthorised absences or are late too many times.
Authorised absences due to illness for instance would obviously NOT be an offence, however many abscences due to illness can be questioned and a letter from a Doctor might be requested in certain circumstances.
Please request a copy of the attendance policy for more information or view on our website.
Other examples of Authorised absence • Unavoidable medical/dental appointments; • Days of religious observance; • Exceptional family circumstances, such as bereavement; N.B. All medical/dental appointments should be made outside of school hours as far as possible.
Examples of Unauthorised absence • Shopping; • Haircuts; • Missed bus; • Oversleeping; • No uniform; • Looking after brothers and sisters; • Minding the house; • Birthdays. • Holidays which are not due to exceptional circumstances.
ARRIVING ON TIME Pupils are expected to arrive at school BEFORE the 8.55 a.m bell. Between 8.45a.m and 8.55 a.m
Pupils who are late for registration are marked late and if they arrive after the register is closed i.e. after 10.00 a.m they are marked absent for that morning session and will therefore require a letter explaining the absence. If no explanation is forthcoming, the absence is marked unauthorised. If a pupil is frequently late particularly if they are marked as unauthorised, the School Educational Social Worker will be notified.
FAMILY HOLIDAYS DURING TERM TIME.
Holidays are only authorised if there are exceptional circumstances for the request.
Sample Letter to parents or carers applying for leave of absence for annual holiday:
Cyfarwyddwr Strategol Gwasanaethau Gofal Cymdeithasol ac Addysg / Strategic Director of Social Care and Education Services Jenny Williams
Pennaeth Gwasanaethau Addysg (Prif Swyddog Addysg) / Head of Education Services (Chief Education Officer)
Richard Ellis Owen
Adeiladau'r Llywodraeth, Ffordd Dinerth, BAE COLWYN, LL28 4UL Government Buildings, Dinerth Road, COLWYN BAY, LL28 4UL
Annwyl Riant/Gofalwr/Gwarcheidwad Dear Parent/Carer/Guardian
Presenoldeb Ysgol/Gwyliau Re: School Attendance/Holiday Leave
Darllenwch yr wybodaeth ganlynol yn ofalus. Please read the following information carefully. Taking your child/children out of school during term time will Bydd cymryd eich plentyn/plant allan o’r ysgol yn ystod tymor impact on their attendance and overall attainment. ysgol yn effeithio ar eu presenoldeb a’u cyrhaeddiad. Regular attendance is central to Welsh Government’s agenda Mae presenoldeb rheolaidd yn ganolog i agenda ac ymdrech and drive to raise attainment in Wales, and research indicates Llywodraeth Cymru i godi cyrhaeddiad yng Nghymru, a dengys that attendance and attainments are strongly linked. ymchwil fod gan bresenoldeb a chyrhaeddiad gyswllt cryf â’i gilydd. The law does not grant parents an automatic right to take their child/children out of school during term time. All requests for Nid yw’r gyfraith yn rhoi hawl awtomatig i rieni gymryd eu holidays will be considered by the Headteacher on an individual plentyn/plant allan o’r ysgol yn ystod tymor ysgol. Bydd pob basis. cais am wyliau yn cael ei ystyried gan y pennaeth yn unigol. Parents must always request permission for holiday leave Dylai rhieni bob amser ofyn am ganiatâd am wyliau gan adael 4 allowing 4 weeks for the school to consider and respond. wythnos i’r ysgol ystyried ac ymateb. Welsh Government regulations state that Headteachers may, in Mae rheoliadau Llywodraeth Cymru yn nodi y gall penaethiaid, exceptional circumstances agree up to 10 days absence during mewn amgylchiadau eithriadol gytuno i hyd at 10 diwrnod o an academic year outside statutory school holiday dates. absenoldeb yn ystod blwyddyn academaidd y tu hwnt i ddyddiadau gwyliau ysgol statudol. If you consider that your request for a holiday is exceptional you will need to complete the attached form and you may be Os ydych yn ystyried bod eich cais am wyliau yn eithriadol bydd asked to attend an interview in the school to discuss your angen i chi lenwi’r ffurflen sydd ynghlwm ac efallai y gofynnir i request. chi fynychu cyfweliad yn yr ysgol i drafod eich cais. If the holiday is not considered to be an exceptional Os na ystyrir fod y gwyliau o fewn amgylchiadau eithriadol, ond circumstance, but nevertheless you still take your eich bod dal yn cymryd eich plentyn/plant o’r ysgol, bydd yr child/children out of school, the absence will be recorded as absenoldeb yn cael ei gofnodi fel un diawdurdod. unauthorised. Bydd yr Awdurdod Lleol yn cael eu hysbysu ynglŷn â gwyliau The Local Authority will be notified of unauthorised holidays. diawdurdod. Gall hyn olygu Hysbysiadau Cosb Penodedig yn This may result in a Fixed Penalty Notice being issued. Please cael eu cyflwyno. Sylwer y gallai cosb o’r fath gael ei gyflwyno i note that such a Penalty could be issued to each parent for bob rhiant ar gyfer bob plentyn a gymerir o’r ysgol. Hysbysiad each child taken out of school. A Fixed Penalty Notice is a fine cosb penodedig yw dirwy o £60 sy’n cynyddu i £120 os nad of £60 which increases to £120 if not paid within the first 28 yw’n cael ei dalu o fewn y 28 diwrnod cyntaf. Bydd methiant i days. Failure to pay will result in legal action being instigated in dalu yn arwain at gamau cyfreithiol yn cael eu dechrau yn y Llys the Magistrates Court. Ynadon. Gobeithiaf y byddwch yn cefnogi hyn ac yn gwerthfawrogi fod I hope you will support this position and appreciate this action hyn yn seiliedig ar dystiolaeth fod disgyblion sy’n mynychu’r is centred upon evidence that pupils who attend school ysgol yn rheolaidd, yn cyflawni gwell canlyniadau o gymharu â regularly, attain better outcomes in their education compared disgyblion sy’n colli cyfnod sylweddol o’u haddysg. with pupils who miss significant period of their education.
Yn gywir / Yours sincerely
Richard Ellis Owen Pennaeth Gwasanaethau Addysg (Prif Swyddog Addysg) Head of Education Services (Chief Education Officer)
APPLICATION BY PARENT/CARER FOR CHILD’S LEAVE OF ABSENCE FROM SCHOOL DURING TERM TIME
Holiday request letter/application form
If you consider you have to take a holiday in term time, and that you have exceptional circumstances, please complete this form and return to the school at least 4 weeks before the date you wish to remove your child from school. Pupil Name ……………………………Tutor Group/Class……… Home Address………………………………………………………………………………….. First day of absence ……………… Date of return to school ……… Total number of days missed ……………………… Reason for absence ………………………………………………...... In the case of an unauthorised holiday the Local Authority will be notified of the holiday taken and a Fixed Penalty Notice could be considered. Please note that such a Penalty could be issued to each parent for each child taken out of school. A Fixed Penalty Notice is a fine of £60 which increases to £120 if not paid within the first 28 days. Thereafter, if the Penalty remains unpaid this will result in legal action being instigated in the Magistrates Court under Section 444 of the 1996 Education Act. Name of Parent/Carer making application ………………………………………………... Signed ………………………………………….. Dated ………………………………………. (Please ensure you are giving at least 4 weeks notice of the proposed absence) ------Pupil Name……………………………………….. Tutor Group ……………………………. ➢ AUTHORISED: Your request has been authorised due to exceptional circumstances: ……/……./……. to …../……./…….
➢ UNAUTHORISED: Your request for leave of absence during term time has not been authorised because :
Signed …………………………………………….. Headteacher Date …../…../…..
Conwy Ysgol Pencae
Attendance percentage of possible sessions for pupils on roll and leavers of compulsory school age only 2017-2018
Age DOB Attended (%) Authorised Unauthorised Not required to absences (%) absences (%) attend (%)
B G Total B G Total B G Total B G Total
12 or 01/09/1901 - 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 over 31/08/2005
11 01/09/2005 - 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 31/08/2006
10 01/09/2006 - 90.8 94.3 92.9 8.5 5.4 6.7 0.8 0.2 0.5 1.8 1.7 1.7 31/08/2007
9 01/09/2007 - 96.9 93.4 94.9 3.1 6.3 4.9 0.0 0.3 0.2 1.6 1.7 1.6 31/08/2008
8 01/09/2008 - 95.2 95.0 95.1 4.8 4.7 4.8 0.0 0.3 0.2 1.6 1.8 1.7 31/08/2009
7 01/09/2009 - 95.0 93.3 94.2 4.4 6.1 5.3 0.6 0.5 0.5 1.6 1.6 1.6 31/08/2010
6 01/09/2010 - 95.9 96.2 96.1 3.7 3.7 3.7 0.3 0.1 0.2 1.6 1.6 1.6 31/08/2011
5 01/09/2011 - 95.4 90.5 93.3 4.4 7.8 5.9 0.1 1.6 0.8 1.7 1.6 1.6 31/08/2012
All ages 94.9 93.9 94.4 4.8 5.7 5.3 0.3 0.4 0.4 1.7 1.7 1.7
School Comparative Key Stage 2 Results for Summer 2018
Ysgol Pencae
N D NCO1 NCO2 NCO3 1 2 3 4 5 6+ 4+
English School 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 65.4 34.6 0.0 100.0
Wales 0.1 0.4 0.1 0.1 0.2 0.4 1.4 6.3 46.4 43.0 1.7 91.1
Oracy School 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 69.2 30.8 0.0 100.0
Wales 0.1 0.4 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.4 1.2 6.2 45.4 44.0 2.0 91.4
Reading School 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 7.7 57.7 34.6 0.0 92.3
Wales 0.1 0.4 0.1 0.1 0.2 0.4 1.4 6.8 45.0 43.6 1.9 90.5
Writing School 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 11.5 57.7 26.9 3.8 88.5
Wales 0.1 0.4 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.5 1.8 10.3 50.0 35.2 1.4 86.6
Welsh First School 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 68.8 31.3 0.0 100.0 Language Wales 0.1 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.3 1.1 6.8 50.1 39.7 1.8 91.6
Oracy School 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 68.8 31.3 0.0 100.0
Wales 0.1 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.3 0.9 6.3 48.7 41.6 2.0 92.3
Reading School 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 68.8 31.3 0.0 100.0
Wales 0.1 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.3 1.1 7.6 48.3 40.6 1.9 90.8
Writing School 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 18.8 43.8 37.5 0.0 81.3
Wales 0.1 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.4 1.7 11.0 53.1 32.3 1.4 86.8
Mathematics School 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 11.5 50.0 38.5 0.0 88.5
Wales 0.1 0.4 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.4 1.2 6.0 44.6 45.3 1.8 91.6
Science School 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 53.8 46.2 0.0 100.0
Wales 0.1 0.4 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.3 1.1 5.5 45.8 46.2 0.2 92.2
Welsh Second School 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 30.0 40.0 30.0 0.0 70.0 Language Wales 0.3 0.7 0.2 0.2 0.2 1.0 2.5 14.2 54.6 26.0 0.3 80.9
Core Subject Indicator **
School 88.5
Wales 89.5
School Comparative Foundation Phase Results for Summer 2018
( PERCENTAGES) Ysgol Pencae
N D W 1 2 3 4 5 6 A
Personal and social School 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 5.0 35.0 60.0 0.0 development, well- being and cultural Wales 0.1 0.4 0.3 0.2 0.4 0.9 3.1 33.3 61.2 0.1 diversity
Language, literacy and School 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 16.7 0.0 66.7 16.7 0.0 communication skills (in Welsh) Wales 0.0 0.2 0.1 0.1 0.2 0.9 7.7 52.8 38.0 0.0
Language, literacy and School 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 50.0 50.0 0.0 communication skills (in English) Wales 0.1 0.4 0.4 0.2 0.5 1.6 8.6 50.0 37.9 0.2
Mathematical School 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 10.0 10.0 55.0 25.0 0.0 development Wales 0.1 0.4 0.3 0.2 0.3 1.3 7.2 51.5 38.6 0.1
Optional Areas of Learning:
Creative development School 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
Physical development School 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
Knowledge and School 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 understanding of the world
Welsh language School 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 development
FPI **
School 80.0
Wales 87.3
PROCEDURES FOR CHILDREN ENTERING AND EXITING THE SCHOOL
Use of the Bus Morning - Presently, only one bus ride, i.e. 8.35am for all pupils.
The Start of the School Day Morning Arrangements Pupils attending the breakfast club must arrive between 8.15 and 8.25 and if Under 8, must be accompanied by an ADULT directly to the side gate where they will be supervised by 3 non- teaching staff. Teachers and school supervisors are on duty from 8.45am each morning. These are County rules.
No-one is to enter the yard before 8.45am. The side gate is locked and only pupils attending breakfast club can enter until 8.25 a.m. The gate will then be locked until 8.45 a.m. Pupils who use the bus or walk through the woods use the slope up from the car park – all others, including parents are to use the large gates in front of the railings on the corner of Graiglwyd Road.
Any child who is on school premises before 8.45am is the responsibility of the parent. This includes the child's behaviour and discipline before school hours and on the way to school. However for safety reasons, we allow them to wait between the steps of the main entrance and the fence.
Children may not enter the school BUILDING before 8.55am.
The fact that the teachers arrive at the school early does not give parents the right to expect them to supervise their children from 8.25am to 8.45am. Teachers arrive so as to prepare the day's tasks and not to supervise children. Teachers' duties commence at 8.45am and finish at 3.40pm., unless they have organised a club.
General
Pupils can make their way up to the yard from 8.45 a.m onwards when the bus arrives , where a member of staff will be waiting for them. We do not allow anyone on the yard before 8.45 am. We do not wish for parents to enter the main front gates, however parents of the Reception Class can bid their farewells by the side gate as their child makes his/ her way up to the yard. The Nursery class is collected from the front door at the start of their session and parents need to wait with their children until that time.
At 8.45 am the teacher on duty will welcome children and allow them to enter the yard.
(Please note that we do not allow anyone to use the large gates by the hall at any time. They are meant for goods vehicles only).
Dry Weather - When it is dry, the children are to go directly to the main yard with their coats and bags. They do so in an orderly fashion - no running - to wait for the 8.55 bell.
When it is raining - When raining etc., the infants are to go directly to the Year 1/2C classrooms and the juniors go to their set classroom.
End of the School Day Nursery pupils are taken to the front door at the end of each session.
Infants - The teachers lead the children to the back door. Parents remain behind the side/back gate until the bell rings. The children who go home by bus will be taken down to the bus quietly and carefully by their teachers.
Juniors - There is no need for parents of the Juniors to enter the school premises at all. Please wait between the large gates and the railings, ensuring that there is room for the children to pass. The children are expected to leave the school via the back / side doors. Only pupils who walk home through the woods or use the bus, go through the main small gates and down the ramp slowly and quietly. All other pupils use the large gates behind the railings. Note that there are no vehicles moving at this time on the school car park to ensure safety.
Remember that no parent is to enter the car park by car or to park near or across the entrance - This practice is extremely dangerous.
Gates – All side gates are locked at 8.55 and opened at 3.00pm. Visitors/pupils arriving/leaving between these times will have to use main entrance and buzz for assistance when arriving.
Taking a child out of school during school hours When a child is to be taken from school during school hours, e.g. to attend hospital appointment, the parents should notify the class teacher/office in writing. The letter will then be sent to the school Secretary/Headteacher who will then be expecting the parent, or another named person. This, we hope, will help tighten security and help ensure that children only leave us with parental permission. If no time for letter - please text or telephone.
Arranging interviews and meetings with staff
*FOR OBVIOUS SECURITY REASONS, PARENTS CANNOT WALK AROUND THE SCHOOL WITHOUT PERMISSION
If a parent or visitor wishes to see a teacher or the Headteacher individually, they should:
*First telephone or text the school office and the Headteacher or the Secretary will transfer the call directly to the class or will take a message and suggest a time to meet or to ring back. *If a parent wishes to see a teacher, a meeting should be arranged through the Headteacher/Secretary, please text, telephone to arrange a suitable time.
Parents cannot meet teachers during teaching and preparation periods, i.e. between 8.45am and 3.40pm. This is the time when the teachers are at their busiest teaching and supervising pupils. As a Head, I am not prepared to let any teacher leave a class during this period to meet parents. Meetings with Head or the Additional Learning Needs Teacher can be arranged during school hours.
Traffic on School Sites Car Parking
Owing to the limited parking space and in order to safeguard those pupils entering the school via the woodland, the use of the school car park is reserved for school staff and education authority officials only.
The only time parents can use the car park is:
• If they are dropping a pupil/s off for the breakfast club - they must arrive before 8.25 and use the small car park just inside the entrance to the left. All pupils under 8 must be accompanied by an ADULT directly to the hall. or • when they come to COLLECT their pupil/s from Mudiad Meithrin at 12pm and when they drop their child off for Nursery at 1.00pm as this is when all other pupils are safe within the school gates.
Parents are also requested to observe the yellow road markings outside the school entrance and not to park on the bend nor to reverse into the school entrance/car park as this causes unnecessary traffic congestion and an additional hazard for children entering the school premises.
Car parking is a concern at Ysgol Pencae as it is a hazard for those who use the school. It is also a hazard for neighbours who live within the vicinity of the school. Drivers parking cars outside the school, near it or dropping or collecting children at the school gates should at all times have consideration for the safety of pedestrians, other road users and the immediate community.
In the case of disabled parking, only orange badge holders should use the school car park. At no time should the space reserved for school transport, buses/taxis, be obstructed. In such cases, parents must be extremely careful and allow children to cross and drive extremely slowly.
There is regular contact with traffic police and the road safety officer who will talk to parents and children and provide leaflets and posters to display and send out.
Letters to parents emphasise the following *Use of the crossing patrol instead of driving right up to school *Not parking on yellow lines *Dropping children off at a safe place then driving on to keep the traffic flow moving, rather than parking and causing congestion *Trips – we endeavour to arrange coach time before or after 9.00am, that is 8.30am or 9.20am * There may be personal contact with any adult who continually parks in an obstructive way or is reported to drive dangerously near school (by Headteacher/Deputy Headteacher or if deemed necessary , by police ). All relevant comments by parents or neighbours will be followed up.
ADVERSE WEATHER CONDITIONS
During adverse weather conditions such as heavy snow/rain fall there is sometimes the need to close the school. In such an event, all parents will be contacted by text via School Comms. If you ask someone other than the norm to pick your INFANTS child up, please let us know by telephone text or note, otherwise we will not be able to allow your child to go with them. No child will be sent home without confirmation that someone is waiting for him/her at home or preferably that someone has come to pick them up, inc. Juniors ).
Please keep an eye out for the weather news as there might not be any snow / heavy rainfall in Penmaenmawr, however other areas could be affected. Pencae school is mostly closed when not enough staff, inc. kitchen staff, can get to school.
SAFETY
1. Children must respect the school’s Health & Safety Policy at all times. 2. The fire drill and rules are clear in each classroom and there is a termly fire drill. 3. Any personal items are the child’s responsibility. You should mark everything, e.g. clothes, bags, purses clearly so that they can be easily identified. 4. Nothing valuable should be left in the cloakroom but should be given to the teacher for safe- keeping. 5. The Governors Health and Safety committee inspect the school annually.
SCHOOL SECURITY
The Caretaker and a Governor are the designated key holders and are responsible for the security of the building. All parents and other adults are requested, when bringing children to school, to hand them over to the teacher on duty at the school gate.
Any parent or visitor is welcome in school but is asked to report to the office via the main entrance where a CCTV camera system is installed. These points must be adhered to, but in no way detract from the open door policy of the school.
DINNER MONEY DINNER MONEY IS PAID ONLINE VIA PARENTPAY. WE WILL ORGANISE A TEMPORARY PASSWORD FOR YOU. THOSE WHO DO NOT WISH TO PAY ONLINE- CAN PAY USING A PROVIDED BARCODE AT SPAR.
Should you consider that your situation is such that your child(ren) are entitled to free meals, get in touch with the benefit office - 01492 576491 who will be able to organise this automatically for you. Computerised reminder letters / emails / texts are sent to all who have not paid, requesting that the pupil is placed on sandwiches or payment received. YOU MUST NOTIFY THE OFFICE OF ANY CHANGES a week in advance e.g dinners to sandwiches , as the system is computerised and you might find yourselves paying for dinners you forgot to cancel!!
POCKET MONEY/VALUABLES It is recommended that pupils do not bring any money to school other than that which is needed for a specific purpose. In such cases, pupils are asked to give the money or other valuable to the class teacher for safe keeping and to avoid complaints losses from pockets, trays, desks, etc. The school cannot accept responsibility for any lost property.
TOYS AND GAMES Pupils are not to bring toys and games to school except when permitted to do so at the end of the school term, etc. CLOTHING All raincoats, anoraks, scarves, hats, games and PE kits should be clearly labelled with the pupil's name for the purpose of identification. CYCLES Only those pupils who have successfully completed the Cycling Proficiency Course and who wear a cycling helmet are permitted to bring cycles to school. Such cycles are brought to school at the owner's risk. BREAKTIMES With the exception of those pupils who go home for lunch, every child must remain on the school premises at all times. Snacks in the form of fruit only are permitted if considered absolutely necessary. NO SWEETS ARE ALLOWED IN SCHOOL. Pupils bringing sandwiches for lunch, should ensure that their drinks are brought in leak-proof, plastic containers. Glass bottles are not permitted.
MEDICINES Only with the written consent of the family doctor will the school administer any form of medication to a pupil, and in such cases, it will only be after prior consultation with the Headteacher. No medication of any kind will be accepted if brought by a child, (other than asthma inhalers which are kept with the child as soon as he/she is mature enough). For long term illnesses requiring medication, school uses a form for parents to fill in, in agreement with school. Under normal circumstances, the administration of medication should be carried out by parents.
Parents are responsible for making sure their child is well enough to attend school. Where a child is acutely unwell, it is advised that the parent/carer keep the child at home. In addition, parents should keep their children at home if they have administered non-prescribed medication and there is a reasonable belief that this dose will need to be repeated before the end of the pupils’ school day. Examples include Paracetamol, Ibuprofen and Aspirin.
MOBILE PHONES MOBILE PHONES ARE NOT TO BE BROUGHT TO SCHOOL. IF A CHILD BRINGS A PHONE TO SCHOOL BY MISTAKE HE/SHE MUST BRING DIRECTLY TO OFFICE. We may consider special circumstances if requested by letter from parents and the phone kept in office.
SUNGLASSES – Only prescribed sunglasses can be worn for health and safety reasons.
ACCIDENTS Minor accidents which occur during school hours are dealt with by the staff of the school. In the event of a pupil being involved in a serious accident, the parents will be contacted as quickly as possible. It is important therefore that the school has a telephone number which, in an emergency, can be used to contact the parents. If the parents/ second named person cannot be contacted arrangements will be made to transport the child to Penmaenmawr surgery or to the hospital casualty department. If a child hits his/her head we notify the parents. See following letter.
PLEASE NOTIFY THE SCHOOL IMMEDIATELY OF ANY CHANGE OF ADDRESS OR TELEPHONE NUMBER
If your child knocks his/her head, we will notify you by text, unless we think that there’s a problem because of the symptoms – we would then phone you directly.
The text will read something like this :- (Name) has had a little/big knock to the head today. She seems O.K. but we will keep an eye on her.
If you receive such a text, it means that a qualified first aider is happy for the child to remain in school, even though he/she may be complaining of the area hurting etc and for us to monitor his/ her condition within normal classes. If we want to talk to you, as the child is showing symptoms that we feel you need to be made aware of, or we feel need medical attention, we shall phone you as usual. As always in these circumstances, if we cannot get hold of you, or anyone else on the contact list, I or the Deputy in my absence, will take your child down to the Doctors and on to casualty if required. PLEASE ENSURE THAT YOU KEEP US UPDATED WITH YOUR CONTACT NUMBERS.
USEFUL NAMES AND ADDRESSES
Chief Educational Officer School Medical Officer Penmaenmawr Surgery The Education Department The Health Centre Paradise Road Government Buildings Argyle Road Penmaenmawr Dinerth Road Llandudno Colwyn Bay Telephone: 623191 Telephone: 01492 544261 Telephone: 01492 75492/78069
COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE Section 29 of the Education Act 2002 requires the governing bodies of all maintained schools in Wales to establish procedures for dealing with complaints from parents, pupils, members of staff, governors, members of the local community and others. The law also requires governing bodies to publish their complaints procedures. The provisions of section 29 came into force on 1st September 2003. On 21st May 2004 the Assembly issued guidance [Circular No: 03/2004] on the establishment and publication of procedures. We also follow the Welsh Assembly Government ‘Guidance for School Governing Bodies on Procedures for Complaints involving Pupils’ [Circular No: 39/2006] Issued Oct 25 2006.
This procedure is outlined in a document in Welsh and English which is available at the school. A copy will be provided free of charge as required to any parent seeking to 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 emphasised, however, that many complaints can be dealt with quickly and effectively by informal consideration based on discussions with the Headteacher or other staff in the school. This is the first reasonable step, and as the circumstances are exceptional, the Governing Body would expect that this step would have been completed before presenting the complaint to them formally and in writing. An appointment can be made to discuss any complaint with the Headteacher by contacting the school secretary. The Governing Body recognises that lessons can be learnt and procedures improved as a result of individual complaints. Any action taken as a result of the analysis of complaints will be identified in the annual report to parents. Any action taken as a result of the analysis of complaints will be identified in the Annual Report to Parents. WE DO NOT HOLD AN ANNUAL GOVERNORS’ REPORT TO PARENTS’ MEETING HOWEVER IF PARENTS WISH TO DISCUSS THAT REPORT, OR ANY OTHER MATTER, THEY ARE WELCOME TO CONTACT THE HEAD OR THE CHAIR OF GOVERNORS. IF PARENTS WISH TO CALL A PUBLIC MEETING, THERE ARE GUIDELINES ON ALLOWING THEM TO DO SO - PLEASE CONTACT THE OFFICE FOR A COPY OF THESE GUIDELINES.
PENCAE SMOKE FREE POLICY
Rationale • A smoke free School provides an environment that protects and promotes the health and well-being of the entire school community. • Smoking is the single most preventable cause of ill health in our society and passive smoking has been shown to cause lung cancer and other serious illnesses in non smokers • Being a smoke free school reinforces our commitment to the Conwy Healthy Schools Scheme’s philosophy of adopting a whole school approach to smoking issues and reinforcing messages learnt in the classroom with policy and practice. • Young people are more likely to start smoking if they see adults smoking. • Pupils, staff and visitors have the right to a safe and healthy smoke free environment.
Purpose • To ensure a healthy smoke free environment at our school in accordance with Welsh Assembly Government legislation and Conwy County Borough Council’s policy on smoking in the workplace.
Legislative requirement • Smoking is not allowed anywhere within the buildings or the grounds of our school 24 hours a day 7 days a week. • Smokefree signs must be displayed at all entrances to school grounds and at every outer entrance to the building or enclosed areas forming part of the school premises. • Smoking is not permitted in any commercial vehicle transporting pupils or staff on journeys and to out of school events • Anyone smoking on school premises will be reminded of the school policy and if they refuse to comply will be asked to leave the premises.
Commitment to a Smokefree Environment We will promote our commitment to providing a smoke free environment by:
• prominently displaying our Smoke free Policy in the staff room • informing parents of new entrants of our school’s Smoke free Policy • advising contractors and others working within our school’s premises of our Smoke free Policy • ensuring that organisations/individuals using school facilities agree to comply with our Smoke free Policy • giving new members of staff a copy of the policy which will become part of their contract of employment • promoting all school activities outside of our school’s premises as smoke free, e.g. field trips, sporting events etc. • declaring a Smoke free zone at school site entrances • supporting our smoking staff to quit by displaying the Smokers Helpline Wales number in the staffroom (0800 0852219) • providing pupils with educational programmes on smoking so that they understand the benefits of not smoking • taking opportunities to participate in appropriate educational initiatives to promote non smoking eg Theatre in Education programmes, Police Liaison Programme. • Reminding parents transporting pupils to and from school events, of the school’s Smoke Free Policy and encouraging them to comply with the spirit of the policy. • School periodically ask parents to refrain from smoking at the bus stops.
See also our Healthy School Files, Personal and Social Policies / Folders . Science curriculum. Term Dates
Please note that our training days can well be different to the ones shown . Any changes noted in circulars./ school calendar.