Pentreuchaf School Handbook (Reviewed June 2013)

Pentreuchaf School

NAME AND ADDRESS OF SCHOOL

Pentreuchaf School Pentreuchaf Pwllheli Gwynedd LL53 8DZ

Phone No.: 01758 750600 E-mail: [email protected]

HEADMASTER Mr Gethin Elis Thomas

Dear Parent/Guardian,

‘We can offer our children two important things: one is roots and the other is wings’

I want Pentreuchaf School to be a colourful and modern school which respects its history and culture, but moves on steadily and determined towards excellence, to prepare the pupils for their future as citizens.

I seek to ensure that each pupil is given the opportunity to develop to the best of their ability, nurtur- ing attitudes and sharing experiences which will set a solid foundation for his/her life as an adult. This is done by firing pride in their Welshness and loyalty towards community and heritage.

I believe that each pupil is as equal as each other and also accept that each child is different and has the right to succeed in different ways. I respect each pupil, whatever their sex, colour or belief, and seek to teach the children to develop by respecting the beliefs and cultures of others, as well as en- couraging respect for their own culture.

I want children to leave Pentreuchaf School as confident pupils with love for education, with good discussion skills and personal plausibility and able to face challenges. I want children to be able to learn independently, as well as use collaborative skills; be aware of the standards expected of them; know how to improve their work and solve problems creatively; have the ability to use the resources they need to develop; know what to do if they face difficul- ties; and be able to use research skills to find answers.

For this to be possible, the curriculum must motivate, be comprehensive, and the teaching must be planned, so that children are actively involved in the process of teaching rather than accept everything on a plate. I am eager for the curriculum to be a vast one, full of interesting things and experiences for the children, and one that will give them the opportunity to develop to their full potential.

I want the school to embrace modern technology, as an implement to save work, as a way of com- municating, as an instrument for learning, and as something which enables us to bring the world into our classrooms.

I believe that pupils should be a part of the day-to-day running of the school, and a part of setting a direction for the school. To ensure this, the children must be aware that their ideas and visions are respected, and that we will listen to them.

I am keen for the staff to show progressiveness, and take professional risks in their teaching, so that their development as leaders, educators and creative people is not prevented and restricted. To ensure that everyone benefits from the skills and information of individual members of staff, we all need to be able to communicate freely, in an atmosphere where everyone is respected, challenged and sup- ported.

The school and home is a partnership. I would like you as parents and guardians to be proud of the school. I believe that the school should give you the opportunity to understand and be a part of the teaching process so that you can help your children outside school. I would like you to feel able to ask questions and make suggestions about school life.

My vision for Pentreuchaf School places the children’s needs above all else, and I am totally con- vinced that the pupils deserve the best possible educational opportunities that we can provide them.

Gethin Elis Thomas

TYPE OF SCHOOL

This is a County Primary School (Infant and Junior). It’s a Welsh, co-educational, daily school.

SCHOOL LOCATION

The school is situated on the outskirts of Pentreuchaf, approx. four miles to the north of Pwllheli, where there are magnificent views. The original school was opened in 1908, and in 2011/2012 a new car park was completed, as well as a three classroom ex- tension including toilets and a modern library, which is compati- ble with the original building. A school garden, a play area for the Foundation Stage, yard and a playing field for the rest of the school has also been allocated. The School Council works closely with the School Governors and Friends of the School to ensure that the school environment stimulates enthusiasm in children and reflects the pupils’ opinions.

HEALTH AND SAFETY

The best possible care is taken regarding the safety of children whilst they are at school. If a child is ill or has had an accident, we contact the parents, then if needed, take the child to Bryn Beryl Hospital or Ysbyty Gwynedd, Bangor or contact the emer- gency services.

Children are given medicine only in special cases – after having written guidance from a parent.

A child is not allowed to leave the school without permission. If there is a change in the way a child leaves school at the end of the day, we ask that parents inform the Headmaster or the child’s teacher about any arrangement made be- forehand.

The school regularly monitors the health and safety procedures for children and staff. Every visitor must ring the bell at the main entrance before having entry to the rest of the school and they are expected to sign -in and out of the building. The school has an alarm system which is connected to the police station, and ‘fire drills’ are held each term.

TRAVELLING AND PARKING

The school encourages parents to use buses or share cars when bringing their children to and from school. We appeal for everyone’s co-operation for the safety of children.

The new purpose built car park is for parents and visitors. The parking facility outside the main entrance has been allocated for buses, taxis and staff only. People should drive carefully and slowly near the school at all times.

ATMOSPHERE AND ETHOS

Establish a happy and active atmosphere based on respect and care between teachers and pupils, pupils with each other, which will enable a child to respond positively and develop self- confidence as well as a positive self-image so that they have self- respect without being arrogant. Ensure that each pupil feels a part of a diciplined society which emphasises on moral, spiritual and humanitarian values.

AIM

The purpose of the school is to create situations and supply resources which will enable children to grow as full personalities, to develop and practice their talents. These situations and resources will provide for each child according to age, ability and interests, and will adjust them to be responsible members of a bilingual community, members who will be able to contribute and accept from it, and live in peace and fraternity together.

This includes:

1) Enabling each child to develop to his/her full potential. 2) Ensure that each child is introduced to the Welsh heritage. 3) Give each child the opportunity to develop as full members of the community, which is changing fast.

The General Aims of the School:

1) Each child should feel happy and safe in a homely environment;

2) Each child should have the opportunity to develop to his/her full potential in every aspect of the curriculum.

3) The school should introduce education which is meaningful and relevant to the pupil’s experience in the community.

4) The school should promote and develop bi- lingualism.

5) The school should offer equal opportunities for every child.

6) The school should promote contact and co- operation with parents.

7) The school should nurture respect towards belongings and other persons.

8) The school should stimulate contact with the community.

9) The school should emphasise behaviour, courtesy and ap- pearance.

10) The school should nurture devoted and enthusiastic teachers.

HOME / SCHOOL CONTRACT

The school has a ‘Home/School Contract’ which states what the school expects from parents / carers and pupils regarding sup- porting the school, as well as the school’s commitment to collabo- rate and provide the best service to parents / carers and pupils.

SCHOOL HOURS

Morning: 9.00 – 12.00 Break time: 10.30 – 10.45 Lunch: 12.00 – 1.00 (11.45 – 1.00 Foundation Stage) Afternoon: 1.00 – 3.30 Break time: 2.20 – 2.30 (2.15 – 2.30 Foundation Stage)

The school will take care of children 10 minutes before the start of the school day. We would appreciate punctuality for everyone’s benefit. Details of activities and holidays are displayed and dis- tributed to parents at the beginning of each term.

SCHOOL WEBSITE

The school has its own comprehensive website which includes letters, news, diary, photos, notifications, reports and much more. Visit the website at:

www.ysgolpentreuchaf.org

A special password must be used to have access to the Parent Section. The password is updated from time to time.

TEXT MESSAGING SERVICE

The school uses the ‘text message service’, which sends messages about the school to parents through text messages. The system enables the school to:

 Contact parents at short notice  Be a part of the Green Schools’ campaign – reduce paper load  Praise children.

PENTREUCHAF SCHOOL ACCEPTANCE POLICY

Every school has an acceptance number. This school’s acceptance number is 15. There is no automatic transfer from the Nursery Class to Reception Class, and as Gwynedd Education Authority is the Accepting Authority, the Authority will consider applications. If the situation arises where more have chosen to send their children to the school than there is space for them, then applications will be assessed in accordance with the following criterion, which are listed in order of priority:  The number of children which can be accepted to the school (i.e. the school’s acceptance number for each school year);  The geographical area which the school usually services (i.e. a defined Catchment). Pentreuchaf School’s defined catchment includes – Pentreuchaf, Llannor, Llwyndyrys, Llithfaen, and Rhydyclafdy.  Has the prospected pupil a brother or sister in the school? To apply for a place at the school, applications must be presented to Gwyn- edd Council, through the school, by the 1st April of each year. The appropriate forms will be available at the school or from the Edu- cation Department. Additional information is available on Gwyn- edd Council’s website - www.gwynedd.gov.uk.

ACCEPTING CHILDREN

Children are accepted to the Nursery Class on a part time basis during the year following their 3rd birthday. Parents are invited to meet the staff in the Nursery Class during the term prior to their child starting there. Before the children become full-time (the term following their 4th birthday) their applications are assessed by Gwynedd Educa- tion Authority. Applications are assessed in accordance with guidelines which are set-out in the acceptance policy.

Children aged 11 years are either transferred to Glan-y-Mor School, Pwllheli or Botwnnog Secondary School. Good contact has been established between the schools and children are given the opportunity to visit the schools prior to their transfer.

ABSENCES

At Ysgol Pentreuchaf, we consider attendance and punctuality to be very important things – so that your child(ren) take(s) full ad- vantage of the school’s education and life. It is important that the children are here regularly by 8.55 in order to begin another exciting day promptly at 9.00! We do, of course, realise that children are ill or unable to come to school for other reasons occasionally. When this happens, please telephone the school and send a written confirmation upon your child’s/children’s return.

TEACHING AND EDUCATING

TEACHERS AND STAFF

Each school’s main resources are their teachers and their ability to create and sustain a happy relationship with the children. We are extremely lucky to have teachers who emphasise on the qual- ity of the relationship between teacher and pupil to promote the academic and personal development of the child. We believe that the teacher who succeeds is the teacher who gets to know his/ her pupils as individuals, who is aware of their lives outside the school and who is always ready to respect and highlight their experiences and their efforts to cope with them. He/she will be eager to promote their lives as individuals.

THE SCHOOL CURRICULUM

A balanced and broad curriculum is introduced which pertains the spiritual, moral, mental, social, physical and emotional development of the child. This is mainly achieved through a thematic method. Documents can be seen in the Head- master’s room.

USE OF THE WELSH LANGUAGE

Life and work within the Nursery Section and the Foundation Stage will be done through the medium of Welsh, to ensure that children are given a firm foundation in the language. The Welsh language will also be the main medium of life and work within the Junior sections and the English language will be introduced between the end of the Foundation Stage (Young Children) and Key Stage 2 (Junior Section) to ensure that they have an opportunity to develop fully bilingual by the time they leave the school at the age of 11 years old. The school’s prerog- ative is to have the opportunity to partake from the wealth of culture through the medium of two languages. LANGUAGE

Language is an unique influence in a child’s development and a foundation for all learning. We try to nurture positive attitudes towards language by offering children a variety of experiences which will stimulate a sensible, lively and intellectual response which will develop the language abilities of children in all endurable and active aspects – in both languages. We will nurture children’s interests in literature in its various forms, and ensure that the experience of reading, listening, observing and responding is always enjoyable and satisfying. By doing this, we develop children’s awareness of the Welsh heritage so that children can appreciate the wealth of their background (native or adopted) and respect different cultures.

LISTENING

Develop children’s abilities to listen ef- fectively in mass situations, group situations and as individuals, so that they have pleasure or comfort, respond to guidance and respond creatively.

TALKING

Develop children’s abilities to talk clearly, intellectually and confidently in an appropriate language to the situation concerned, by practicing care for accuracy.

READING

Nurture the child as a reader from the start so that he/she can:

 have pleasure or enjoyment;  deepen his/her understanding;  amass information;  develop his/her ability to be critical in his/her reading and to appreciate books.

WRITING

Give the child the opportunity to create a written response to different experiences and situations and to write for different purposes so that he/she can:

 use writing as a medium to come to terms with his/her world;  use writing to deepen his/her understanding;  choose and use a form of writing which is suit- able for its purpose.

NUMERACY / MATHEMATICS

Mathematical ideas and techniques are an essential part of daily life and substantially contributes' to our understanding of the world.

The school strives to develop a positive atti- tude towards mathematics as an interesting subject to enjoy. We try to develop the child’s ability to think clearly and logical with confidence and resilience which will lead to the ability to clearly express ideas, discuss the subject with certainty and to use mathematical language, and use it in situations at home, at school and within the community.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AND COMMUNICA- TION (ITC)

The latest developments within education have given Information Technology a high status, as well as a clear description of the nature of the subject. IT’s ability is character- ised by the ability to use equipment and pre- sent Information Technology. It’s effective to analyse, process and introduce information and to model, measure and manage external events. At Pentreuchaf School, we emphasis developing IT through the National Curricu- lum subjects, and the computer is seen as a ‘cross-curricular tool’. The school updates its ITC resources regularly and this includes Wi- Fi access throughout the school.

SCIENCE

Science is a part of life and the child will develop: i) an analytic and critical mind through following logical and discovery methods based on observing, guessing and experimenting; ii) understanding of living things and life’s basic processes; iii) understanding the way in which we can use and develop environmental resources.

THE ARTS

Art is an expression of a man’s effort to find the world’s beauty by using his senses to ob- serve, to imagine, to wonder and create. We strongly believe that the arts have an important role to play in the child’s development and we will motivate him/her to participate in music, drama and movement activities, as well as design, craft and technology. By ensuring that the arts are an integrated aspect within the school day, we can offer the child the opportunity to use his/her imagination, originality and curiosity.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

The school provides an environment which is a stimulus and is safe for pupils, where they can work towards general maturity by developing physical skills. We provide activities which offer pupils enjoyment whilst satisfying their creative needs. We will teach and provide opportunities to practice and improve skills which are relevant to the activity.

We also try to develop social conscious- ness as well as social training through individual expressiveness. We try to develop confidence through physical activities, create an awareness and emphasise the importance of health whilst exercising.

We intend Physical Education to be enjoyable, so that pupils take an interest and are willing to partake in different physical activities. We hope to develop con- sciousness and appreciation of the environment.

The school trains the children through various activities which include Gymnas- tics, dance, games, swimming, athletics and adventure activities. In the Early Years and the Foundation Stage, every child has at least 1 hour per week of Physical Education. By Key Stage 2, the children spend at least an hour and a quarter each week in Physical Education lessons. As well as this, the children have the opportunity to attend additional weekly training sessions after school hours. These activities are held on the school prem- ises or in the swimming pool at Dwyfor Lei- sure Centre, Pwllheli.

Also, in years 3, 4, 5 and 6, children are given the opportunity to attend residential centres which concentrate on outdoor/open-air activities.

DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY

The main feature of Design and Technology is that it offers pupils the opportunity to realise and represent ideas from their imagination in the form of illustrations, plans, models, exhibitions and computer imi- tations. The development of ideas from the first bud to their completion is a process, which is called the Design Process.

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION AND JOINT WORSHIP

Morning services at school are an important part of Pentreuchaf School’ ethos and feeling. The religious aspect is connected with children’s’ experiences in their daily lives, emphasising the aspects of thinking of others and caring for them. The whole school Service, which is held in the hall, is an important part of developing the sense of community. Information about world religions are introduced but Christianity is emphasised. We make collections for local and national humanitarian causes. Parents are given the right to exclude their children from Religious Education lessons and Joint Worship if there is an appropriate reason.

MUSIC

The school receives a sum of money to employ peripatetic teachers. Following a hearing test, tuition is offered to those likely to benefit and receive support at home. School tuition is arranged. A fee is charged for the lessons, in accordance with the school policy. Each child in the Junior Section is given the opportunity to play the ukulele and to have Music lessons, which include singing, composing and instrumental work.

Singing has proved to be very prominent in Pentreuchaf School pupils’ lives for many years. A number of parties and individuals have won at the Urdd National Eisteddfod over the years.

We hold Christmas Concerts and Eisteddfod’s at the school each year, where every pupil is given the opportunity to appear on stage.

SEX EDUCATION

Formal Sex Education lessons are not provided. The school teach- es Sex Education in accordance with the National Curriculum’s re- quirements. If a child asks a question, the teacher is expected to answer honestly and wisely with sensitivity, keeping in mind the maturity of the child.

The ‘Sense’ DVD pack is introduced to Year 6 children during their last term at school. The nurse also discusses the development of the body in an appropriate way to children’s feelings and maturity. Parents are welcome to meet the school Nurse prior to the showing of the materials used in connection with Sex Education.

Parents have the right to exclude their children from the whole Sex Education curriculum or parts of it, except what is ordered in the National Curriculum Order. Parents are not required to ex- plain why they are excluding their child.

Complaints regarding the Curriculum Complaints can be made regarding the Curriculum in accordance with the procedures which were established under Section 409 of the Education Reform Act 1996. Contact the Headmaster for further details.

TEACHING AND EDUCATING PRO- CEDURE

Work is organised by the teacher within the classroom, with support from specialists with some subjects from time to time. In each class, children are divided according to their age, in mixed ability groups. Sometimes, the school groups children according to ability to ensure that the best possible provision is offered to pupils of all abilities. Usually, Nursery Class children are transferred when they are 4 years old, and Young Children to the Junior Section when they are 7 years old.

ADDITIONAL LEARNING NEEDS

We have a number of Assistants in the school who are responsible for offering additional help to children who have Additional Learning Needs. Assistants offer individual and group attention within class, with specific support from the support teacher. If a child requires individual attention, the child is referred to the County’s Psychological Services Department with the possibility of arranging specialist provision.

ADDITIONAL LEARNING NEEDS POLICY

Our aim is to develop detailed assessing methods to recognise each child’s specific needs and provide a relevant working programme for them. The school also considers talented pupils or pupils who have a special ability as individuals who have Addi- tional Learning Needs.

The name of each child who has Additional Learning Needs is placed in the A.L.N. Register. The school is responsible for placing the children on the steps noted in the ‘Wales Additional Learning Needs Practice Stage’ and for monitoring, reviewing and allocat- ing resources for them from the school’s budget and from the fi- nance, which comes hand in hand with the child’s placement in these stages within the Annual Review. The Authority is responsible for giving a child an Additional Learning Needs Statement.

It’s the school’s policy to contact the parents of any child when he/she is placed in any stage and/or before he/she is referred for a customary or statutory assessment. The school keeps in touch with parents regarding the child’s progress and parents are invited to every review. A full copy of the Additional Learning Needs Policy can be viewed at the school. HOMEWORK

Regular homework is not given in the Foundation Stage. Children can take reading books home with them to practice their reading. Children are encouraged to borrow books in the Junior Section.

Children within the Junior Section are given homework. This is to reinforce the work accomplished at school. Parents are asked to encourage their children to read on a regular basis and to complete homework punctually and tidily.

BOOK CLUBS

Children are given the opportunity to join the Sbondonics, Sbri-di -ri and WCW Clubs, as well as Puffin Book Club and CIP in Key Stage 2. The Urdd’ magazines are also ordered. ASSESSING

Parents receive an annual written report on their child’s progress. Children are assessed internally as part of the school’s assessing policy. In accordance with the National Curriculum, children are assessed through teacher assessments at the end of K.S. 2.

You will find attached the school’s aggregated assessment results under the National Curriculum for K.S.2 and the comparative national information (all Wales) based on the National Curriculum aggregated assessment results for K.S.2.

ASSESSING FOR TEACHING

Open days/evenings are held each term for parents to see their children’s work and discuss their development with the teachers. Each teacher keep detailed assessments about their children and discusses the ‘way forward’ with parents during the open even- ing. SAFETY

BULLYING POLICY Everyone at the school has the basic right to be respected by everyone else and to experience a happy life at the school. Any kind of bullying is totally unac- ceptable. The school responds firmly and thoroughly to any case of bullying. The school makes every possible effort to ensure that no bullying takes place.

The School Council meets regularly with the Headmaster and discusses any matters affecting their rights as individuals. Parents should contact the school immediately if they are concerned about any case of bullying.

DISCIPLINE AND SCHOOL RULES Each pupil is expected to behave accept- ably and as a member of the community within the school. They are encouraged to consider and to respect other people’s rights and belongings. Any punishment given will be reasonable and moderate in accordance with the Education Authority’s guidelines.

The school promotes self-discipline in accordance with the school’s terms and conditions. Running within the school is not permitted. Children are not permitted to eat sweets and crisps at school, but we welcome fruit.

We do not allow children to bring any toys or valuable items to school unless the class teacher has requested to see them. Rub- bish should always be placed in bins.

No money or valuable items should be kept in coats and bags. They should be given to teachers to keep safely. Each year, every class goes through a process of discussing and creating specific rules for their class. We consider the ‘voice of the child’ to be very important.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES The main philosophy and aims of the school is that each individual’s honesty, dignity and worth are of great importance. We strive to offer each pupil and teacher equal opportunities at all times without discriminating on the basis of sex, religion, skin colour, language or disability.

PUPILS WITH DISABILITIES The school is designed to ensure that there is easy access for pupils and parents with disabilities. Special arrangements are made between the school and the home when a child with disabilities or Addi- tional Learning Needs starts at the school. Please contact the Headmaster for further details. The school is sensitive to pupils with disabilities and makes every effort to include them in all aspects of the school’s life and work.

ADMINISTRATION PASTORAL PROCEDURE The Headmaster is responsible for the pastoral procedure within the school. The teachers are responsible for the educational progress and pastoral care of children in their classes.

If parents have any concerns about their children, they should firstly contact the Headmaster so that they can discuss the matter and arrange, if needed, to meet with the class teacher.

CHILD PROTECTION PROCEDURE Each member of staff at the school is responsible for the protection and safety of children at the school. If there are any concerns regarding child neglect or physical, emotional or sexual abuse, then it’s the staff’s duty, in accordance with the county’s Child Protection Procedure, to raise the matter with the School’s Child Protection Co-ordinator. The school’s Co-ordinator can confer with a professional colleague, as well as with a relevant agency, such as the Health and Social Services. Following these discussions, the School Co- ordinator may have to officially refer the child to the Social Ser- vices Department, in accordance with the county’s guidelines and protocol. The Social Services are responsible for deciding whether they need to act or not. Due to the nature of some allegations, it is not always appropriate to discuss matters with the parent before referring a child. The Social Services and the Police are responsible for inves- tigating into the allegations. The Headmaster is the School’s Child Protection Co-ordinator.

THE SCHOOL’S CHILD PROTECTION PROCEDURES

As part of our child protection procedures, the teachers and other members of staff have a duty to report any worries regarding mistreatment or possible neglect to the named responsible persons named below, either in school or in the social services.

Concerned about a child Contact the numbers below if you feel that a child is suffer- ing harm, neglect or abuse. The Social Services can investi- gate and act to protect the child, offer support and advice and assist families to get the help they need.

The responsible persons for Child Protection in Ysgol Pen- treuchaf are-

Name: Mr Gethin Elis Thomas , Ysgol Pentreuchaf, Pentreuchaf. Contact telephone number – 01758 750600 / 07748944321

Chair of Governors Name: Mrs Einir Hughes, Hafod y Wennol, Efailnewydd, Pwllheli. Rhif ffôn cyswllt – 01758 614147

Designated Child Protection Governor Name: Mr Myrddin ap Dafydd, Ysgubor Plas, Llwyndyrys, Pwllheli. Rhif ffôn cyswllt – 01758 750440

The person to contact in social services are- Name: Mrs Carys Roberts, Welfare Officer, Canolfan Frondeg,Pwllheli. Contact telephone number – 01758704427 or through the Children Referrals Team, Social Services 01758704455 (9:00-17:30, Monday-Friday) Out of hours phone 01248 353551 (any other time and on Bank Holidays) E-mail: [email protected]

If there are child protection allegations regarding the headteacher, you should contact the named person in social services ( contact deails above).

CYFEILLION YR YSGOL (‘FRIENDS OF THE SCHOOL’)

Dear parent and friend,

The main aim of ‘Cyfeillion yr Ysgol’ (‘Friends of the School’ )is to enrich the experiences our children have at Ysgol Pentreuchaf and enable our children to access extra curricular activities that enhance their learning, develop their skills and improve self- confidence. As you are aware schools annually are given a re- duced budget and as a result the financial contribution of ‘Cyfeillion yr Ysgol’ is more important than ever to ensure our children in the future can carry on benefitting from the wealth of activities, resources and experiences that develop well-rounded children. ‘Cyfeillion yr Ysgol’ meet on a termly basis to discuss and organ- ise fund-raising activities and welcome all parents and friends to attend as we recognise that every parent has a contribution to offer and an active role to play.

Yours truly, Eryl Parry-Jones (Elis + Begw’s mother) Clare Larkey-Jones (Lewis + Jac’s mother) Wendy Jones (Huw’s mother - Yr.1)

EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

The schools has an extra-curricular activity programme which includes competing in Eisteddfod’s, performing in concerts and sport events.

THE URDD

The school has maintained a close relationship with the Urdd since the beginning. Pentreuchaf and Llithfaen Sec- tions meet regularly on Tuesday afternoons, after school. They depend heavily on parent’s speciality and time to run the sessions.

Pentreuchaf school children have a long tradition of competing in Eisteddfod’s. Urdd members have the opportunity to compete in all Urdd events, which includes sports.

VISITS

Visits are arranged based on the themes of each term. Teachers research into relevant visits which will enrich learning and effective education. Speak- ers are invited to the school to address the children on different subjects.

CHARGING A FEE

We ask for voluntary contributions towards the costs of transport for educational visits. Year 3,4,5 and 6 pupils are given the opportunity to spend two/three days at Glan-llyn Camp each year. The school also asks for contributions towards the musical instrument lessons and residential visits. Relevant information is sent to parents in the form of a letter or contract when relevant. The school is always willing to discuss any concerns with parents/carers about any costs re- lated to the school.

Absences with and without Permission

The information is included annually as an attachment in the Headmaster’s Report to the Board of Governors.

BAD WEATHER

Every effort is made to keep the school open. If in doubt, keep your child at home or phone the school. Sometimes, we will need to send the children home early, but we will phone home first or contact through the text messaging service, or place information on our website, at www.ysgolpentreuchaf.org

SCHOOL DINNER

The school dinner is cooked in the school kitchen. Children can bring their own sandwiches. Children are supervised during the lunch hour by school members of staff.

Dinner money is collected by the Clerical Assistant on Monday mornings or on the first day of an academic week. Some families can claim free school dinners. An application form is available at the school.

The school is a ‘Healthy School’ and places great emphasis on eating healthily and regular exercise.

SUPPORT SERVICE

A nurse and dentist occasionally visit the school. You can have a chat with the nurse at any time by phoning 01758 701000.

A child can be referred to the attention of a Speech Therapist through an application by the Headmaster.

We ask kindly that parents inform the school regarding any disability which could affect the child’s development.

TEACHER’ TRAINING

Teacher’ training and curricular developments are organised during the academic year. The school will be closed to pupils on these days. Sufficient notice is given of these days.

SCHOOL UNIFORM

The school encourages pupils to wear red t-shirts and grey sweatshirts which have the school logo on them and dark trou- sers/skirts. Pupils are encouraged not to wear jeans or tracksuits, or any ‘branded’ clothing.

Pupils are expected to dress appropriately and smartly.

All clothes should be labelled. Further information can be had by contacting the school secretary.

We borrow appropriate clothes to children who represent school teams.

Children are not allowed to wear jewellery during Physical Educa- tion lessons.

Parents should ensure that their child has a clean set of clothing to change to after Physical Education lessons.

OUTDOOR PARTNERSHIP

We here at Pentreuchaf School are a part of a small group of schools from Anglesey, Gwynedd and Conwy who are taking part in an extended pilot project of the award which was developed by the Outdoor Partnership, in conjunction with the Countryside Council for Wales. We take part in a number of outdoor activities which include canoeing, rowing, climbing, mountain walking, cycling and much more! Our Outdoor Mission is as follows: Improve the opportunities for Pentreuchaf School pupils to reach their potential through outdoor activities.

GREEN SCHOOL AND HEALTHY SCHOOL

The school is part of the Healthy Schools and Green Schools plans. This gives pupils the opportunity to realise the importance of keeping fit and healthy, as well as matters to do with conserva- tion, re-cycling and energy saving.

SCHOOL COUNCIL

Pentreuchaf’ School Council:  Gives pupils opportunities to express their opinions on what happens in the school  Gives pupils the opportunity to contribute to decisions made within the school.  Gives pupils the opportunity to contribute to making the school a happier place for all.  Create a better understanding between pupils and teachers and other members of staff.

“...we have a voice and our concerns are taken seriously.” “...the school Council makes us feel included and that we can makes a difference in Pentreuchaf School” “We have the opportunity to practice important skills, such as working in groups, decision-making and representing others” “We are allowed to make important decisions at school, i.e. Rais- ing money, break time arrangements and ordering resources that we need” Members of Pentreuchaf School Council

SCHOOL GOVERNORS

Mrs Einir Hughes (Chairwoman) Mr Myrddin ap Dafydd (Child protection) Mrs Anwen Davies Mrs Heulwen Hughes Mr Silyn Roberts Mrs Sioned Williams Mr Gareth Morgan Mr Iwan ap Llyfnwy Mrs Sharon Williams Mr Gethin Elis Thomas (Headmaster)

SCHOOL STAFF

The school’s permanent teaching staff.

Mr Gethin Elis Thomas Headmaster and Year 5 + 6 Teacher Miss Fflur Williams Year 5 + 6 Teacher (part time) Mrs Einir Humphreys Year 3 + 4 Teacher Miss Sara Jones Foundation Stage Teacher (Year 1 + 2) Mrs Delyth Roberts Foundation Stage Teacher (Nursery and Reception Class) Mrs Evelyn Parry Nursery Teacher

Assistants and Learning Support Assistants

Mrs Bet Richards Nursery Assistant / ALN Assistant Mrs Heulwen Hughes Foundation Stage Assistant / ALN Assistant Miss Julie Roberts Assistant Mrs Wendy Jones ALN Assistant Miss Sophie Un- Assistant derwood

Kitchen Staff Mrs Sharon Jones Cook

Caretaking and Cleaning Staff

SCHOOL PERFORMANCE

End of Key Stage 1 (Year 2):

End of Key Stage 2 (Year 6):

ATTENDANCE

Attendance for the year 2009-2010

Autumn Term Spring Term Summer Term

Attendances 93.9% 94.9% 94.3%

Absences 5.3% 5.1% 5.7% Unauthorised 0.8% 0.0% 0.0%

Attendance for the year 2010-2011

Autumn Term Spring Term Summer Term Attendances 94.5% 95.0% 95.3% Absences 5.3% 4.8% 4.3% Unauthorised 0.2% 0.2% 0.4%

SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 2013-2014

TERM: Autumn 2013 2 September 2013 - 20 December 2013 Spring 2014 6 January 2014 - 11 April 2014 Summer 2014 28 April 2014 - 21 July 2014

Pupils return to school on Tuesday, 3rd September, 2013

HOLIDAYS:

28 October 2013 – 1 November 2013 (Half Term) 23 December 2013 - 3 January 2014 (Christmas Holidays) 24 - 28 February 2014 (Half Term) 14 – 25 April 2014 (Easter Holidays) 5 May 2014 (May Day) 26 – 30 May 2014 (Half Term) 22 July - 29 August 2014 (Summer Holidays)

Schools re-open on Monday, 1st September, 2014 for teachers, and on Tuesday, 2nd September for pupils.

Comments/Suggestions for parents to follow in preparation for school

1. Never ‘talk down’ to the child. 2. It would benefit the child if parents would talk and discuss visits and chat regularly to them. 3. Look at and discuss selected television programmes with the children. 4. Parents are encouraged to read to their children on a daily basis and play with them, and discuss with the children whilst shopping or cooking 5. There is no need to do any formal work, but parents should help the child to be aware of numbers through teaching him/her simple rhymes. 6. Make use of the local Nursery group to prepare your child so- cially and linguistically for Welsh medium education. 7. Help your child to complete tasks such as getting dressed, tying shoe laces, visiting the toilet (the child needs to be out of nappies before starting school), using knife and fork and tidying-up. 8. Develop activities which will promote dialogue and self- confidence. 9. Help your child to be familiar with his/her name. 10. Do not use capital letters, i.e. Catrin not CATRIN.

REMEMBER

‘What a child can do today with help, they will do themselves to- morrow’.

IF YOU HAVE ANY CONCERNS REGARDING YOUR CHILD’S EDUCA- TION, PLEASE CONTACT ME IMMEDIATELY.

Mr Gethin Elis Thomas