Weston Rhyn Primary School
Old Chirk Road, Weston Rhyn, Shropshire, SY10 7SR www.westonrhyn.shropshire.sch.uk [email protected] 01691 773429 / 774692
Acting Headteacher: Mr S Morris
Dear Parents
Welcome to Weston Rhyn Primary School.
We believe that our school is large enough to provide a wide range of experiences for your child, giving them a broad and balanced education. At the same time, it is small enough for us to know all our children well and care for their individual needs.
We hope that the information contained within this booklet will help towards forming a partnership between home and school, so that we can work together and provide the best possible education for your child.
If you would like to visit the school, please telephone to make an appointment. We will be able to show you around and answer any questions that you may have concerning the educational needs of your child.
Yours faithfully
S Morris Acting Head teacher
Contents
Our School 1 Clubs & Outdoor Education 15
Our aims 1 Special Activities & Events 16
High quality teaching 1 Year 5/6 residential trip 16
The school building 1 School Trips 17
Our staff & Governors 2 Clubs & Special Days 18
Uniform & Jewellery 3 Home / School Links 19
Our school rules 3 Home School Liaison 19
School organisation & Classes 4 Absences 19
Nursery, Playgroup & Cool Kids 4 Absences through holiday 19
Admissions 5 Friends of Weston Rhyn 20
Accessibility 6 Parent meetings 20
Health & Safety 6 General Information 21 Curriculum 7 Year 6 Transition to Secondary 21
Introduction 9 School Health Service and Health Care 21
Core Subjects 9 Behaviour policy & Complaints Procedure 22
Foundation Subjects 10 Playtimes & Lunchtimes 24
Special Educational Needs 11 School meals and other lunch options 24
Homework & Basic Skills 12 Weather 24
Assessment & Year 6 SAT scores 2009 12 Texting Service 24
Assemblies 13 Bicycles, Security & Medicines 25
House Points 13 What Ofsted about us 26
RE, PE and Sex Education 14 Contact details & Term dates 27
OUR SCHOOL 1
Our Aims High Quality Teaching
We believe that effective learning is Some quotes from our last positive OFSTED achieved in a secure environment where Inspection Report undertaken during March 2018:
everyone is happy, stimulated, challenged “The leadership team maintain a good quality of and feels valued as an individual. education in the school”
To recognise and provide for the needs and Pupils say “the teachers really challenge and abilities of each child, encouraging them to achieve support us.” their maximum potential through a broad and balanced curriculum. “The school provides a broad and balanced curriculum that values additional opportunities for learning through a wide range of experiences.” To provide a wide range of appropriate and challenging learning experiences. Our School building To foster a love of learning.
To nurture meaningful relationships through the The school enjoys the benefit of spacious buildings development of the ‘whole child’ – academically, and play areas that were constructed in 1924 but socially, physically, emotionally and spiritually. have been considerably extended and improved over recent years.
To encourage self-discipline, good manners and co- In addition to well-equipped class bases, we have: operation by the use of praise and, where a hall/dining room containing numerous necessary, censure. pieces of PE apparatus
a library To raise awareness of moral values and develop a respect for the beliefs of others. large practical work areas a general-purpose room To equip children to become members of our a conservation area society and the wider world. a large playground and sports field a craft and cookery room To support and value all staff and governors in every way possible.
To encourage continuing professional development and reflection upon one’s practice.
To be open and welcoming to parents and to foster links with the local academic and business communities.
To provide a safe, attractive, stimulating and quality environment for all members of the school.
2 OUR SCHOOL
Staff at Weston Rhyn
Acting Head teacher Teaching Assistants Mr Steve Morris Miss Stephanie Arias Mrs Alex Carpenter (HLTA) Assistant Head Mrs Barbara Cielecki Miss Abbey Cullen (maternity leave) Mrs Jan Everitt (HLTA) Mrs Tracey Derham (maternity cover) Mrs Helen Gilbert Mrs Amanda Jones Teaching Staff Mrs Teresa Jones (HLTA) Mrs Rachel Crowe (Job-share) Mrs Stacey Marshall Miss Abbey Cullen (maternity leave) Mrs Tracy Owen Mrs Tracey Derham (maternity cover) Mrs Karen Peate Mrs Emma Drakeley (Job-share) Mrs Rachael Saunders Mrs Louise Ellis Mrs Vanessa Hackett Lunchtime Supervisors Mrs Rebecca Jepson (Job-share) Mrs Mary Davies Mrs Lianne Lewis (Job-share) Mrs Helen Gilbert Mrs Lauren Rogers Miss Katie Gilbert Ms Naomi Bamford Mrs Julie Dean Administrator Mrs Jill Lamb Kitchen Staff Mrs Angela Slawson Caretaker Miss Ellie Nash Mr Terry Rogers
The Governing Body
The Governing Body is responsible for the Local Education Authority management and direction of the curriculum Mr John Burke and the implementation of the school Mrs Janet Kelly (& Vice-chair) budget. Parent The Acting Headteacher is accountable to the Miss Sarah Fairclough Governors for the internal organisation and Miss Lorraine Grindley daily running of the school Mrs Wendy Newman Mrs Carolyne Wood Chair of Governors Mr Graham French Teacher / Staff Mrs Rachael Crowe Vice-chair of Governors Miss Abbey Cullen (maternity leave) Mrs Janet Kelly Mrs Tracey Derham (maternity cover) Mr Steve Morris (Acting Headteacher) Community Mrs Karen Peate Mr Alwyn Hughes
OUR SCHOOL 3
School Uniform School Rules
Everyday uniform All our rules are based on:
Bottle green jumper, sweater or cardigan The safety of everybody in school Respect for others and their property White shirt or blouse Good manners White or bottle green polo shirt / school Taking care of the school buildings. polo shirt 1. Everybody is to treat everyone with respect Dark grey or black trousers or shorts, skirt and courtesy all of the time. or dress 2. Children must walk inside the building. Green gingham dresses Black shoes or boots 3. Children are to be friendly and kind to each other, play non-aggressive games and not play fight. PE Kit 4. Children should arrive at and leave school in an Plain white T-shirt appropriate and orderly manner. Black shorts 5. Children should be proud of the school and Pumps or suitable trainers treat the building and its grounds with care and Tracksuit (if the weather is cold) respect.
We advise you to label all clothing so as to avoid Parents are asked to wait for children outside of items being lost, mislaid or taken by someone the building to avoid congestion in the corridor. else. If you have small children with you please do not Jewellery let them play outside the infant classes, disturb displays or run up and down corridors. Small studs are the only type of earrings allowed to be worn in school. These must be removed or We have written our own behaviour policy to covered during PE /Sports lessons. All other ensure that everyone at Weston Rhyn behaves jewellery including bracelets, necklaces, rings and appropriately and sensibly. Please see p.23 for other piercings are not permitted to be worn in more information on our behaviour policy. school. We do allow children to bring healthy snacks such as fruit or prepared vegetable snacks for playtime. We don’t, however, allow sweets, crisps, or other sugary snacks and drinks because these often have a negative effect on their learning when back in class.
4 OUR SCHOOL
School Organisation Nursery, Playgroup & Cool Kids The usual timetable for the day is as follows:
Whole School starts at 8.55am Nursery We have a 24 place LEA controlled nursery unit Whole school playtime is at 10.45am till 11.00am based in the Family Centre building, 8.55am to 11.25am. Reception/Key Stage 1 dinner is at 11.50am Parents are urged to register their children as early Key Stage 2 dinner is at 12.10pm as possible to ensure that they reserve a place as we normally have a waiting list.
Key Stage 1 home time is at 2.50pm A Nursery booklet and further details can be obtained by contacting Mrs Rogers (Nursery Key Stage 2 home time is at 3.00pm Teacher) on 774701 or through the Headteacher.
It is important that children arrive at school by Weston Rhyn Playgroup 8.55am to be registered. Every effort should be The Playgroup, which operates in the Family made to bring your children to school and pick Centre, provides first-rate pre-school experiences children up at the end of the day in plenty of time. for young children and all parents are urged to make use of it. It is an independently run group All Key Stage 1 children need to be met by an managed by a committee. adult at the end of the afternoon. They also provide a Lunchtime link club enabling A member of staff will be on the yard to greet children to stay from Nursery into a Playgroup parents and children from 8.45am onwards. session.
Further details can be obtained from the Playgroup Classes Leader (01691 774701) weekdays 12.20pm to 2.50pm.
Foundation Stage Charity Registration number 1020808 Playgroup Nursery Coolkidz Mercury Reception & Year 1 A privately owned Breakfast and After school child care club operates within the Family Centre. Key Stage 1 and 2 Venus Years 1 & 2 Opening times are 8 am to 8.45am and 3.00pm to Neptune Years 2 & 3 6.00pm Monday to Friday during the school term. Saturn Year 4 Jupiter Years 5 & 6 Children have a wide range of activities to get involved within a safely managed environment.
Further details can be obtained from Mrs Heather Garrett of Coolkidz (01691 774701).
OUR SCHOOL 5
Admissions “Parents are very positive about the work you do with their children. They Weston Rhyn is a Community Primary School for children between the ages of 4 years and 11 years, are confident that you keep their with a nursery class for children aged 3 to 4 years. children safe and that they can raise Our admissions authority is Shropshire Council. concerns with you.”
Should you wish your child attend our school, you should register them at school as soon as possible. Ofsted 2018 This page will give you more information on how you can do this.
A standard application form and information will Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee a place at a be available to parents in early September 2018, primary school even if your child has attended the whose children are due to commence school in the nursery located at the school. academic year 2019/2020. All parents will be advised that it is in their own best interests to Please note that our pre-school contact confirm in writing, using the LEA application form, programme will involve parents with the school what their preference for a school place is, prior to children being admitted. regardless of whether they opt for their nearest school, or one further away. These forms should Further information will be available in the Parents’ be returned by January 2019 via an online Guide to Education in Shropshire, which is application or to the parents’ preferred school, produced by the LEA and available on their which will pass them on to the Education website. Department to administer the allocations procedure. Registration details Please ensure that all registration forms are The admissions criteria which will be used to completed and returned to school as soon as determine the allocation of a school place will be possible. as follows, in order of priority: We also ask parents to remember that it is very b) Exceptional medical grounds relevant to an important that we have up to date emergency admission application. contact telephone details for your child and to c) Sibling connection with a pupil who will be on notify us immediately of any changes with these the relevant school’s roll in the year in contact details. question, living within the school’s normal attendance area. d) Children within area but without a sibling connection. e) Children out of area with a sibling connection. f) Children out of area without a sibling connection.
Where necessary, in order to determine the allocation of places in schools which may be oversubscribed, the distance between the parents’ normal home address and school will be employed to determine the allocation of places up to the admissions numbers, with those parents living nearest the school being offered places first.
6 OUR SCHOOL
Accessibility Health & Safety
‘Disadvantaged pupils make It is the school’s duty and overall priority to similar progress to that of other ensure that all children are taught in a safe pupils.’ environment, without any threat to their health or safety.
Ofsted 2018 At Weston Rhyn we want all our children to feel safe and secure, whether in the classroom or out on a school trip. The safety of every child and adult in our school is therefore of paramount importance At Weston Rhyn, our aim is to treat all pupils to us. equally. We believe that no pupil, regardless of ability or disability, should be treated less We do ask parents and all visitors to our school not favourably than other pupils. To this end our key to drive on the school premises unless authorised objective is to reduce and eliminate barriers in by the headteacher. We would also remind all accessing the curriculum and to promote full visitors to our school that smoking is not allowed participation in the school community for pupils, anywhere on the premises. Dogs, with the prospective pupils and our adult users with a exception of guide dogs, are also not allowed on disability. the premises.
We have our own Accessibility Policy, which is During the normal course of the school day children available from the school office, and have made may handle tools such as scissors, saws and glue physical adjustments to the school building to guns. Teachers ensure that such tools are used accommodate those who come to our school and appropriately and sensibly. Safety in PE is also very have a disability. important and we make sure that all safety precautions are met when delivering our PE We have high expectations for all pupils, including curriculum. This also means that earrings have to those with a disability, and expect them to be removed or covered for the lesson. participate in all areas of school life. To achieve this we ensure that all staff are aware of the Risk assessments are made before taking children requirements of accessibility for all who can then out on school trips. It is our responsibility to ensure ensure that the appropriate provision is in place. that all risks are addressed and appropriate measures put in place to minimise those risks. At the front of the school we have a sloping ramp to allow easier access for those with a wheelchair and a lift by the main entrance door for those who have difficulty with steps. In the school building we have a stair lift for access into our Key Stage 1 part of the building.
Teacher’s planning also takes into account those pupils who have difficulty in accessing certain areas of the curriculum. At Weston Rhyn we recognise the additional needs of those pupils who have dyslexia, dyspraxia, ADD, ADHD etc. (Refer to the ‘Special Educational Needs’ section on page 16).
CURRICULUM 7
We plan an interesting and challenging scheme of work so that the children are inspired to achieve.
8 CURRICULUM
‘Children in the early years provision receive good teaching. With the care and support of staff, children in the early years quickly develop self-help and social skills, settling well into class routines. Staff form positive relationships with parents, and the online system for sharing photographical records and evidence of their child’s achievements is valued by parents.’ Ofsted, 2018
CURRICULUM 9
Introduction Core subjects
The school aims to provide a broad and balanced English curriculum, enabling all children to find interest and success. The ability to communicate is pivotal for children if they are to have a fulfilling and successful life. Our Children are encouraged to work hard and to goal is for all of our children to reach high realize their full potential. standards in their ability to speak, listen, read and write. From their very first day in school the The core subjects children are encouraged to speak and listen to other people, are inspired by a range of reading English books and texts and given a range of opportunities Maths to develop and enhance their writing skills. We Science want the children to love the English language and use it to the best of their ability. We believe that Foundation Subjects the curriculum we offer enables all our children to achieve this. Design & Technology Information & Communication Technology Maths Geography History ‘I couldn’t do this before, but now I can’, ‘I don’t Art know why I thought this would be so hard’, ‘I like Music maths, it’s fun!’ All of these quotes are by children PE who find maths challenging and have yet managed to achieve success with it. At Weston Rhyn we Other subjects allow the children to explore a range of mathematical skills that they can use in contextual Religious Education problem solving and in other areas of the Citizenship curriculum. We don’t teach maths for maths’ sake Personal, Social & Health Education but do our level best to ensure that it is useful, Sex Education practical and most of all enjoyable.
Our staff spend considerable time planning work in each area of the curriculum to ensure that Science individual needs are met and that progression is achieved as children move forward from year to Our science curriculum is one that allows children year. to use skills they have developed elsewhere in a scientific way. We provide children with the right Staff use a mixture of whole class, individual and teaching and tools so that they can learn how to group teaching methods to suit the type of test fairly, accurately and safely. Children learn learning activity being undertaken. about a range of topics ranging from how plants grow to how the earth revolves around the sun. Detailed policy documents are available for We aren’t afraid to get our hands dirty at Weston individual subjects areas, which can be discussed Rhyn – both children and staff enjoy doing practical with the Headteacher and are available on our experiments that inspire and give children a deeper website and from our office. understanding of the world and life around them.
10 CURRICULUM
Foundation subjects Information & Communication Technology ICT is taught as a subject and through other areas of the curriculum. Teachers plan a varied use of Our most recent Ofsted report noted that ‘topics ICT equipment including computers, laptops, that combine work help pupils see how learning in digital cameras, video cameras, microph0nes and one subject impacts on work elsewhere’ and that digital microscopes. Children are encouraged to ‘particularly good are the opportunities for them explore the different uses and media of ICT and to develop their literacy and numeracy skills and to develop their skills in this important subject. explore the world in which they work and play’. Art Art is a very important subject for children. Design & Technology Through this subject children can express We know that children love to make things. At themselves in ways they wouldn’t normally do. Weston Rhyn we recognize the importance in Art at Weston Rhyn is taught through many knowing how to design things as well. In both different media including painting, sketching, key stages, our children are given the opportunity modeling, photographing, digital art and to design and make a range of things such as technical drawing. We deliver an art curriculum motorized cars, tall towers, bags, clothes, photo that allows children to learn new skills, appreciate frames, moving pictures and a range of foods. We existing pieces of art and explore their artistic and often celebrate the things the children make by creative side. showing them to the school in an assembly or inviting classes to have a look at them. Music Music is a popular subject at Weston Rhyn. As Geography well as delivering our scheme of work, in previous Children love to learn about the world around years we have also had children learn to play new them, whether it is the world outside their own instruments, with tuition provided for by classroom or places on the other side of the Shropshire Council. As well as learning to play a globe. Children are naturally fascinated by the musical instrument, children are also given the world around them and at Weston Rhyn we try to opportunity to sing and play arrange of engage this fascination through geography. Not percussion instruments, including a full class set only do the children get to learn about other of djembe drums. places but they are also often treated to other cultures visiting them. PE At Weston Rhyn we recognize the importance of History exercise and a healthy lifestyle. We ensure that Whether the children are dressing up as Roman through our PE scheme of work, the children are soldiers, making ancient Egyptian masks or taught what makes for a healthy lifestyle and the tasting food the ancient Greeks would eat, history factors that can contribute to an unhealthy is a very popular subject at Weston Rhyn. Like all lifestyle. We teach a range of sports and games subjects our aim is to make history as interesting ensuring that all children, regardless of ability, are and informative as possible. Through included. We also run a range of sporting clubs investigating ancient civilizations from all over the after school and take part in many competitions world to finding out about specific people, the in which we have had a lot of success. children are given a varied yet in depth curriculum in which they can broaden their knowledge about the history of their planet. Other subjects
We also deliver an enriched curriculum for RE, PSHE, Sex Education and Citizenship. Please see page 17 for more information on these subjects.
CURRICULUM 11
The school accepts that children who have Special Educational Needs special educational needs will be:
In any school class there will be children fully integrated into the life of the requiring some type of special provision. school so that they will be able to maximise their potential as learners and To provide an appropriate education for contribute to the social and cultural children with Special Needs the school has activities of the school, established the following objectives: taught in a mainstream class in which all to identify and assess the child’s special teachers have the support and help to needs as early as possible cater for their needs,
respond to these needs by specific learning provided with a broad, balanced and or behaviour modification programmes relevant curriculum based upon the National Curriculum, monitor a child’s progress and ensure that any intervention remains appropriate assessed and monitored using the graduated response of the SEN code of practice 2001. establish and maintain the child’s positive
self esteem We recognise the importance of parental
involvement at all stages of a child’s encourage parents to participate actively in education. their child’s learning
The parents of children with special needs liaise with play group, Nursery, support will be kept informed and encouraged to agencies and assessment agencies participate positively in their child’s education. Special Education Provision is co-ordinated throughout the school by the SENCO.
Children may be identified by parents, class teachers or outside agencies as in need of ‘Pupils feel safe in school and are assessment regarding Special Needs provision. well supported. Pupils are
There are two stages: confident that they could approach a member of staff it 1) SEN Support they needed help. This is 2) EHC Plan supported by one pupil’s Children receive individual/group support from comment that, ‘we know where Class Teachers and Teaching Assistants working to get help and we also have on carefully planned programmes of work. worry boxes if we want use to The school has one governor with particular them ’ responsibility/interest in the success of SEN Provision in the school. Ofsted, 2018
12 CURRICULUM
Homework Assessment
All children at Weston Rhyn Primary School should and will be given the opportunity to “A good, well-managed show what they know, understand and can do. homework programme helps children Assessment is an informative tool that allows and young people to develop the skills teachers to monitor the progress made by and attitudes they will need, for pupils and helps pupils in developing their understanding, knowledge and skills. We aim successful lifelong learning. Homework to: also supports the development of independent learning skills, and monitor the progress made by each provides parents with an opportunity child against national levels. to take part in their children's inform our planning to be more education.” effective in teaching and learning.
Department for Children, Schools & Families identify the strengths and weaknesses of a child.
form a basis of evidence from which we At Weston Rhyn Primary School homework is can report to teachers, pupils, parents given out on a half-termly basis. The children are and other educational agencies. given a topic, which they are to research themselves. The children then use their own research to create and present their own project on the topic. Year 6 SATs results 2018
Homework is presented in a class and a day is Reading School National then given to the school for the children to look at and present their own work to other children, 89% 75% staff members, parents and governors. Writing 84% 78% Some pieces of homework are chosen to be part of a homework topic display.
Basic skills English Grammar 79% 78%
Children are also expected to practice spellings, read at home and develop their basic maths skills such as tables and number bonds. Maths 100% 76%
Parents are encouraged to support their children with these basic skills. Parents are welcome to Reading, Writing & come in to school to discuss how the school 74% 64% approaches certain skills and topics. Maths
CURRICULUM 13
Assemblies
Assemblies are an important part of the school day. They promote the Christian ethos of the school, encourage a community spirit amongst the whole school, celebrate successes within the school and engage children’s awe and wonder beyond the school.
The school day includes an assembly, which is broadly a Christian form of collective worship. Children are encouraged to take part in assemblies and classes are responsible for leading a service at least once a term.
Parents and friends are welcome to attend the class led assemblies, which are usually held in the hall on a Friday morning.
We also use some assemblies to reward some children with achievement certificates for things such as positive attitudes, hard work, manners, very good and improved behaviour and special pieces of work that children have done.
14 CURRICULUM
Religious Education
The school follows the Shropshire Agreed Syllabus To enhance the teaching and learning of RE we concerning Religious Education, which may be arrange: inspected by parents who should contact the visits to places of worship Headteacher. the handling of real artefacts
visits from practising members of The two main aspects for RE are learning about different faiths religion and learning from religion. Although our studies and discussions are based on Christian Parents reserve the right to withdraw their children ideals, children learn about other religions and from RE lessons on religious grounds. Parents who cultures and are made aware that we live in a multi- do wish to withdraw their children from RE lessons cultural society where other families have beliefs should contact and speak to the headteacher so and customs. that suitable supervisory arrangements can be made.
Physical Education
It is crucial that our young children understand the At Weston Rhyn we promote the value of healthy value of well-being, keeping fit and exercise. As competition and playing as part of a team. We well as playing games, having fun and competing in offer a variety of sports clubs after school such as sports, PE at Weston Rhyn also promotes the football, rounders, netball, hockey and cricket. principles of getting and staying healthy. We have taken Year 5 and 6 children on a Children are given the opportunity to develop their residential trip during the year. This allows skills and learn techniques in the following sports; children to take part in other outdoor activities athletics, basketball, cricket, football, hockey, such as orienteering, sailing, canoeing, rock netball, rounders, swimming, tag-rugby and tennis. climbing, abseiling and hill boarding. (See Clubs & Outdoor Education on page 15 for Our school is equipped with the apparatus for more information). gymnastics and dance and other after school sports clubs.
Sex Education
Aspects of sex education are taught in Parents are notified by letter as to when their accordance with the government guidelines as an children are to be given the sex education important part of the children’s curriculum. curriculum and also invited to view the content of the films and other materials should they want to. Children in Year 6 are invited to watch a video with the headings, ‘healthy living’, ‘understanding Parents have the right to withdraw their feelings and functions’ and ‘getting along with child(ren) from all or part of sex education others’. Appropriate work and discussion is programmes offered by school. A letter should be carefully matched to the ages of children being written to the head teacher explaining which taught. aspects of sex education the child(ren) should not undertake.
CLUBS & OUTDOOR EDUCATION 15
Children are given a variety of opportunities to explore, develop, learn and have fun outside the classroom.
16 CLUBS & OUTDOOR EDUCATION
Special Activities & Events
A well structured programme for personal, social and health education supports pupils’ good personal development. A very good range of additional activities, including music, crafts and sport, enhances pupils’ learning and provides them with an insight into the world of work and leisure.
At Weston Rhyn we promote alternative and additional activities for the children to engage in. Education isn’t just about reading books and sitting by tables. It is also about exploring and learning new skills, trying out activities they wouldn’t normally do and having lots of fun.
Activities have included:
Ruthin Goal. Park Hall Farm. Puppet show. Residential Visits Visit to Pizza Express
Previous years the Year 5 and 6 children of Weston have had the opportunity of going on a residential trip at the Old Vicarage Centre in Stottesdon, Bryntysilio, Llangollen. We plan to go to Manor Adventure, Abernant Lake Hotel in September 2019.
This is a fantastic opportunity for the children to try a variety of activities in a fun-filled, action- packed weekend.
Activities the children have done have included:
Rock climbing & abseiling Hill-boarding Laser shooting in a forest Orienteering Team building activities Mountain biking Pot-holing
CLUBS & OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES 17
School Trips Children value the opportunity to go on a school trip and enjoy the time they spend there. School trips are not just days out of school, but invaluable experiences where the children’s learning, awe and wonder extends beyond the school premises.
The school pays for admission and transport for a school trip, although parents are asked if they wish to contribute to the payment of it.
Previous school trips have included:
Chester Zoo Blists Hill RAF Cosford Ifton Meadows
18 CLUBS & OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Clubs Special Days
At Weston Rhyn we believe that it is important to We want the children who come to our school provide a range of extra curricular activities that to enjoy themselves and be happy here. We children can get involved in. Teachers, parents want them to look back on the time they and other agencies have all helped to run and spend at Weston Rhyn with fondness. We also support these clubs. want to inspire our children and give them opportunities to explore a range of activities. Some of the clubs that we have run and supported are: To this end, special days and events are often arranged at Weston Rhyn Primary School. Football Cricket Such days and events have included a healthy Basket ball Multi-sports schools day, a book week. We also invite Stop Motion Athletics special guests to perform, sing or dance for the children.
From Canada; The Surrey Children’s Choir, Surrey Youth Chamber Choir and Surrey Youth Chorus
‘Staff organise outdoor adventure trips for pupils from Y5 & Y6. The pupils value these opportunities, which support them to develop a wider understanding of the world beyond their immediate environment’ Ofsted, 2018.
HOME / SCHOOL LINKS 19
Home School Liaison Absences
It is essential for close links between If your child is ill and unable to cope with a normal school and home to be established for the school day they should be kept at home. well being and educational development of In the event of absence, we ask that you let the your child. school know by phoning on the first day of absence and in writing when your child returns to school. We encourage all parents to take an active interest Our phone number is 01691 773429. We cannot in their child's learning, give lots of encouragement accept a verbal message from your child as to why and support for what they do and communicate they were absent. with the school their opinions and feelings about their child’s education. You can refer to the ‘Guidance on Infection Control in Schools and other Child Care Settings’, on the To emphasise these home/school links we ask all Health Protection Agency website or get in touch parents and children to sign our Home School with our school office for more information. Agreement. Should we not hear by lunchtime then our Learning a) Teachers are always willing to discuss any Mentor will try to make contact on the first day of problems or worries concerning your child. absence. It is very important that the school has If you require to discuss matters at length, current contact details for parents and guardians. then it is best to arrange an appointment Should either we or your child need to contact you with your child’s class teacher. in the day it is important that we have this information. b) Regular evenings are established at school for parents to arrange appointments to Children do, at times, have dental, medical or other discuss their child's work and progress. appointments during the school day. Children attending such appointments should always be c) Various meetings, displays, performances collected from school by a parent/guardian or etc., are arranged from time to time to responsible adult. show you what children are doing at school. We encourage you to support your child by Older children may only leave school for attending these as and when possible. appointments if a prior explanatory note or phone call has been received or discussion has taken place d) There are lots of opportunities for you to with the head/class teacher. help or support the school in various ways, either through the Friends Association or by helping teachers with classroom activities. Absence through holidays
It is important that parents feel welcome in our school and that they can approach us with their As of 1st September 2013 there has been a change concerns. We do listen to and take seriously your in school attendance regulations. Headteachers concerns and opinions. are now only allowed to authorise any leave of absence when an application has been made in There may be, from time to time, occasions where advance (a minimum of 4 weeks prior to the date you disagree with how we have addressed / taught being requested) and it is felt to be for exceptional certain issues. If such an occasion arises please Circumstance; the annual family holiday would not take the time to tell us about it. We ask all our be deemed an exceptional circumstance. parents to ‘talk to us, not about us’.
20 HOME / SCHOOL LINKS
Friends Association Parent Meetings
The school enjoys the benefits of a Friends So that we can give you information about your Association, currently run by members of staff. child’s progress and development we have two Various functions and activities are organised by parent meetings throughout the year. The first is in them. the first half of the autumn term and the second is in the first half of the spring term. If any parents are interested in running our Friends Association, or willing to help out please speak to These meetings are arranged so that you and your the head teacher or contact the office who will be child’s class teacher can discuss your child and their happy to give you more information. learning and to identify strengths and the next steps in their development. Educational, Social and Fund-raising activities help develop positive relationships between parents and At the end of the year a written report is sent home the school and benefit the children in many ways, to summarise your child’s achievement, effort and by providing additional books and equipment. New progress made. Parents are given the opportunity members are always welcome. to discuss their child’s report if they wish to do so.
Parents and children from our successful walking bus scheme
GENERAL INFORMATION 21
Year 6 transition School Health Service
Moving up into secondary school is a very The following information sets out big step for our Year 6 children. At Weston arrangements for routine services Rhyn we believe that it is important to give provided by the School Health Service in all our Year 6 children our support and conjunction with the school. encouragement as they prepare to move on. Angela Skull is our school nurse who is based at Oswestry clinic. (01691) 663415. We have strong transition links with our secondary schools to ensure that transition from Year 6 to During your child's first year at school, he or she Year 7 is as smooth and stress free as possible. As will be offered a hearing test and a measurement some children react differently to change, it is of height and weight, to be carried out by the important for all staff at Weston Rhyn to be as School Nurse. Your child will also have a vision test supportive as possible and do our best to address carried out by an Orthoptist. any concern they have. The School Health Service now operates a system The secondary schools that most of our children of selective medicals. During their first year, move up to are: children are considered for such medicals, if concerns are expressed by the School Nurse, St Martins School School Doctor or parents. Full discussion will take 01691 776500 place with parents and parental consent obtained before any examination takes place. The Marches School 01691 664400 Health Care
Lakelands School Dental Inspections are carried out annually at 01691 622543 school and parents have the right to withdraw
their children from these. Ysgol Dinas Bran
01978 860669 As there are no longer regular inspections by a
school nurse, or letters sent out by the school for The Maelor School checking for head lice, we rely totally on parents to 01948 830291 deal with this problem. We would urge all parents
to check their children regularly for signs of head The Corbett School Technology College lice and comb hair daily with a fine-toothed comb. 01939 260296
If you find any signs of lice, please treat your Our close links with these secondary schools allows children with suitable medication before returning us to share the relevant information we have with them to school and then inform the head or class the secondary school you choose for your child. teacher. Your child will also have the opportunity to attend their secondary school on a taster day to give them The school has qualified First Aiders to deal with an insight into secondary school life and any minor accidents etc. at school in accordance (hopefully) show them that it isn’t that scary! with the School’s Health and Safety Policy.
22 GENERAL INFORMATION
Behaviour Complaints Procedure
At Weston Rhyn we believe that all of our children It is hoped that all matters to do with your child are are responsible for their behaviour. We therefore resolved appropriately in school. However, there encourage all of our children to behave responsibly. may be an occasion where you feel a situation or Rather than focusing on punishments and issue has not been dealt with satisfactorily. In the sanctions for misbehaviour all the time, we prefer unlikely event that this does happen we ask that to be positive about, praise and reward good parents speak to their child’s class teacher or the behaviour. head teacher to discuss and hopefully resolve the matter. If you are still unhappy, you should follow We have a very positive house point system for our complaints procedure (Appendix 1), which you which the children actively strive to contribute to will be able to find at the back of this prospectus. and all members of staff are encouraged to award stickers, certificates and rewards for positive and thoughtful behaviour. This includes our Child Protection Achievement Assembly every Friday in which children are rewarded for a variety of things including caring and respectful behaviour. At Weston Rhyn, our primary concern is the health, safety and welfare of your child. As a school we Please refer to our Behaviour Policy for more have a statutory duty to safeguard and promote information on the type of rewards and sanctions the welfare of all our pupils. we give to our children. In cases where we have reason to believe or There are occasions, however, when we do have to suspect that a child may be subject to neglect, ill act and respond to unacceptable behaviour. Even treatment or other forms of abuse, we have to when we have to discipline our children, it is follow Child Protection Procedures laid down by important for the children to know what they have the Shropshire Local Authority and refer our done wrong, understand that their behaviour has concerns to the Social Services department. This is brought about consequences or sanctions, know without prior notification or discussion with the that such behaviour is to stop and understand that parents. Information on Child Protection, including if their misbehaviour carries on, the consequences our school policy, is available from the school will be more severe. office.
‘Pupils behavior is very good and there is a calm working atmosphere in classes. .’ Ofsted 2018
GENERAL INFORMATION 23
24 GENERAL INFORMATION Playtimes Lunchtime options All children have a playtime at 10.45am for fifteen minutes. We provide a range of playtime games Certain families may be entitled to Free School such as skipping ropes, hula hoops and balls for the Meals. Please take a form the school office to claim children to play with. We also encourage children for these. Children may also bring their own packed to play creatively and imaginatively. Two members lunches. We do encourage parents to provide a of staff are always present on the yard at playtime. healthy balanced packed lunch and ask not to include glass bottles or flasks with internal glass We do not allow fighting, play fighting or any other sections. Children may also go home for their form of aggressive behaviour on the yard. Children dinner if parents so wish. Such children will need to who do fight or play aggressively may forfeit their be picked up by parents. Any child wishing to go playtime for that day or receive another sanction, home, who does not normally do so, must bring a as directed in the behaviour policy. note from parents to explain this.
In addition to this, Key Stage 1 children have an extra playtime in the afternoon for 10 minutes. A Weather member of staff is always present on the yard for this afternoon playtime. We do our best to ensure that children get to play outside during playtimes and lunchtimes. We remind parents to ensure that their children wear Lunchtimes appropriate clothing for the weather that day. Children are only allowed out to play in snow if they Key stage 1 lunchtime starts at 11.50am and Key have wellingtons/waterproof boots to change into. Stage 2 lunchtime starts at 12.10pm. If the school has to be closed we try to relay this We have five lunchtime supervisors to monitor the information through Radio Shropshire as early as children at lunchtimes three of which are qualified possible and by texting parents with our texting first aider members. We expect all children to service. (Again, we remind parents for up-to-date extend the same courtesy to our lunchtime mobile phone numbers). supervisors as they would to any other member of staff. If conditions in the weather deteriorate during the day it may become be necessary to shut the school and send children home. Again we do our level School meals best to give you this information as soon as possible. If this situation were to arise and you are The school has its own kitchen where meals of not going to be at home, please make sure your good quality are prepared each day to allow a child knows where they are to go. choice menu for children. Our kitchen staff follow the menu as laid out by Shropshire Council. Texting Service Children are responsible for their own dinner money so this should arrive to school in a named We have invested in a texting service that allows us purse or envelope and not left in cloakrooms. to text parents of any relevant information that Money is left in a lunches ‘money box’ that is needs to be communicated. Information in the past picked up by our kitchen staff. Children collect and has included notification of important letters and hand in a dinner card when receiving their lunch. reports being sent home with the children, reminders to bring things into school and reminders of times and dates of school trips. Please note that this system only works as well as the contact information you give us.
25
School Security Medicines
School entrances will be open for easy access to Under the guidelines set out by Shropshire Council parents and children at the beginning of each no member of staff is allowed to administer any morning and end of each afternoon session medication to your child unless prescribed by a doctor. If your child has a prescribed medication, it All external doors with be secured soon after the should be brought to school in the morning by an beginning of the morning session and end of adult with clear instructions concerning dosage, afternoon session. CCTV is used on the school site time, etc. We suggest that if certain medicines in the interest of pupil and staff safety. need only be taken three times a day, these doses can be administered at home. All parents/visitors should report to the main entrance at other times and use the bell to gain Children needing inhalers for possible asthma access. Visitors are asked to sign in and out using problems should allow class teachers to retain the book available in the school office and wear a them safely within the classroom. Children in Years badge at all times. Parents should report to the 5 and 6 are allowed to keep inhalers in their tray or office but need not sign the book. in a bag.
It is important that children take inhalers with No Smoking them when going on class visits, trips or sporting activities. Smoking is not allowed anywhere on the school site. We would ask parents and visitors to respect and cooperate with this policy.
Bicycles / Scooters
Children who come to school on bicycles need to be safe and competent cyclists. They should be able to use the road properly and not cycle on pavements etc. We would encourage all children to wear safety helmets while cycling to and from school. For safety reasons we ask children not to cycle / scooter within the school premises.
If children ride in a dangerous or irresponsible manner then they will not be allowed to bring their bicycles / scooters to school.
There is an area where bicycles / scooters can be parked at the front of the school which is locked during the school day. Parents are also advised to provide locks and chains for added security.
26 GENERAL INFORMATION
What Ofsted said about us:
“This school continues to be good”
‘You create a warm, bright and engaging school environment for pupils. You and your staff have thoughtful and caring interactions with pupils, which are underpinned by the school motto, ‘Believe and achieve’
“Teachers identify the interests of their pupils, which they incorporate into lessons. You actively encourage pupils to prepare for lessons at home.”
‘Relationships between staff and pupils are very strong, and because of this pupils gain confidence in their own skills and are seen to be willing to take risks’
“ Safeguarding is effective. The leadership team has ensured that all safeguarding arrangements are fit for purpose.
Parents indicate that they are confident that you keep pupils safe at school. An example they gave was your supervision of pupils arriving in the morning, which they feel is good.”
‘Teachers continue to plan and provide pupils with greater literacy and numeracy opportunities across the curriculum.’
“Teachers have high expectations of pupils and are planning lessons carefully to build skills and concepts over time. This is evidenced in pupils’ books.”
Pupils explained ‘teachers help by making work easier for us to understand rather than telling us to just get on.’
Ofsted 2018
GENERAL INFORMATION 27
Term Dates 2018/19
Contact details ------
Autumn Term 2018 School Address Tuesday 4th September 2018 st Weston Rhyn Primary School Friday 21 December 2018 Half term Old Chirk Road Monday 29th October 2018 to Friday 2nd November 2018 Weston Rhyn Oswestry Spring Term 2019 Monday 7th January 2019 Shropshire Friday 12th April 2019. SY10 7SR Half term Monday 18th February 2019 to Friday 22nd February 2019. Easter School phone number Monday 15th April 2019 to th 01691 773429 / 774692 Friday 26 April 2019
Summer Term 2019 Monday 29th April 2019 School office Friday 19th July 2019 [email protected] May Bank Holiday Monday 6th May 2019 Half term Monday 27th May 2019 to st School website Friday 31 May 2019 ------www.westonrhyn.shropshire.sch.uk Autumn Term 2019 Tuesday 3rd September 2019 Friday 20th December 2019 Half Term Monday 28th October 2019 to Friday 1st November 2019
Appendix 1
School Complaints Procedure
If you have any comments, complaints or compliments concerning school matters, we will be pleased for you to contact us.
Who do I contact? All matters should initially be referred to the Acting Headteacher. You may contact Mr Morris directly, by phone (01691 773429) to agree a mutually convenient meeting time. A relative or friend may come along with you if required.
What will happen? You will not be treated adversely if you make a complaint. Your comments/complaints will be listened to and treated confidentially.
Investigations will be carried out by the Headteacher to establish facts concerning your complaints and matters then dealt with in a fair and professional manner. You will then be informed of any outcomes or actions taken.
Should it not be possible to resolve any complaint or concerns satisfactorily in this way the complaint should be put in writing and sent or given to the Headteacher.
The school will then deal with your complaint as follows: -
Formally acknowledge it within five working days Tell you the name and telephone number of the person dealing with it Respond to it within twenty working days or if it is not possible to give you a complete answer, tell you what is being done to investigate and how long it is expected to take Tell you if it has to be dealt with under a special procedure.
What can I do if I'm not happy with the way my complaint has been dealt with by the Headteacher? If you have discussed matters with the Acting Headteacher and given him a written copy of your complaint, which has then been replied to, you may take any further grievance to the chairperson of the Disciplinary/Complaints Sub Committee of the Governing Body, (Mr Graham French, c/o Weston Rhyn Primary School). The chairperson will review any concerns regarding your complaint and then make any arrangements for it to be investigated further and if necessary the sub committee convened.
You will have the opportunity to express your opinions in writing. The Headteacher will explain any action that may have been taken and the sub committee will then decide if your grievance is to be upheld.
You will be informed of any decisions/outcome.
What if I have a complaint about the Acting Headteacher? If you have a complaint about the Headteacher and feel unable to raise the matter directly with him, you should contact the Chairperson of Governors (Mr Graham French, c/o Weston Rhyn Primary School) who will arrange for it to be dealt with following the above guidelines.
Complaints about the Curriculum and Religious Worship Under Section 23 of the Education Reform Act 1988 the Local Education Authority has established approved arrangement for dealing with formal complaints about the curriculum or related matters, to the governing body, the LEA or both. Parents or others requiring more information on these matters should contact the head in the first instance, who will discuss the LEA's approved arrangements.
Appendix 2 Legislation concerning the legal requirements of the contents of a school prospectus
Content updated: 1 September 2005
Governing bodies of maintained schools must publish a school prospectus for parents and prospective parents. LAs may publish prospectuses on behalf of LA maintained schools, but governing bodies must provide the relevant information.
Content of prospectus From 1 September 2005 the regulations for the school prospectus have changed, so that there is much more flexibility over what is included, and schools will be freer to respond to requests from parents for particular pieces of information. The only obligatory content of the school prospectus is now the information about SEN and disability provision previously required in the governors' annual report. Since schools are required to produce this information by the Education (Special Educational Needs) (Information) (England) Regulations, it makes sense to include it in the prospectus where it will be easily available to parents. The required information is as follows:
Arrangements for the admission of pupils with disabilities Details of steps to prevent disabled pupils being treated less favourably than other pupils Details of existing facilities to assist access to the school by pupils with disabilities The accessibility plan (required under the Disability Discrimination Act 1995) covering future policies for increasing access to the school by pupils with disabilities Information about the implementation of the governing body's policy on pupils with special educational needs and any changes to the policy during the last year* The policy itself is required by the Education (Special Educational Needs) (Information) (England) Regulations 1999
School prospectuses must be published during the school year immediately preceding the admissions school year, i.e. prospectuses published in 2018 to 2019 will be for admissions in 2019 to 2020. Secondary schools and middle- deemed primary schools must publish their prospectuses at least six weeks before the final date by which parents are asked to apply for admission to the school or to express a preference for a place. Other primary schools are encouraged to follow the same timetable. In the case of secondary schools only, the prospectus must be sent to the local Connexions service that will use it, along with other materials, in their careers education and guidance work with Years 10 and 11.
Governing bodies should ensure that copies of the school prospectus are made available (if necessary, in languages other than English or in alternative formats, e.g. Braille):
At the school for reference Free of charge to parents on request.
(From www.teachernet.gov.uk)
Weston Rhyn County Primary School
Weston Rhyn Primary School Old Chirk Road, Weston Rhyn, Shropshire, SY10 7SR www.westonrhyn.shropshire.sch.uk [email protected] 01691 773429 / 774692