Mosstowie Primary School
School Handbook
Mosstowie Primary School Miltonbrae Miltonduff Elgin IV30 8TY
Telephone Number: 01343 547119 School Mobile: 07967 748 918
E-mail: admin.mosstowiep@moray-edunet.gov.uk School website: http://www.schools-online.co.uk/mosstowie Moray Council website: www.moray.gov.uk
Headteacher - Garry Forgie
N Location ELGIN
Ark
Forres Childcare Journey time: Mosstowie to Elgin Mosstowie approx. 5 minutes Journey time: Mosstowie to Forres Primary approx. 20 minutes Playgroup
This Handbook is updated annually by the Head Teacher. It is reviewed by staff, the Parent Council and the Pupil Council before publication and follows guidelines set out by the Moray Council. The information contained within is correct at the time of publication. Should you require any further information which is not set out in this document please contact the school office using contact details above.
Date of issue: January 2021
CONTENTS
Welcome/Introduction 3 School Ethos 4 School Roll and Classes The School Day Staff 5 The Mosstowie Parent Forum and Parent Council Local Nurseries and Pre-School Provision 6 Miltonduff Playgroup/Parent and Toddler Group, Arc Childcare Infant Induction at Mosstowie What parents/carers can do to help their children P1 Enrolment for pupils within school catchment zone 7 Map of catchment zone P1 Enrolment for pupils OUTWITH school catchment zone Enrolment during the school session Liaison with Elgin High School Curriculum for Excellence – Bringing Learning to Life and Life to Learning 8 Curricular Areas Experiences and Outcomes Literacy 9 Mathematics and Numeracy Health and Wellbeing Religious and Moral Education Residential Visit/School Camp 10 Homework School Rules Expectations & Sanctions Assessment 11 Additional Support for Learning Pupil Committees/Consulting with Pupils Parents Interviews and Reports Statement of Procedures taken in the event of Bullying 12 School Term and Holiday Dates 2019-2022 13 Contact Details & Communication with School 14 Data Protection Photography and Video / The Seesaw Online App School Uniform & Gym Kit 15 School Meals & Packed Lunches Transport to and from school School Bus and Taxis, Private Transport, Parking and Road Safety Pupil Welfare and the Named Person 16 Absence Accidents/Illness & Medication Concerns and complaints Further Information School Closure 17 Storm Procedure & Information Line School Improvement Plan 18 Appendix A – Moray Council A-Z contact details 19 & 20
2 Welcome to Mosstowie Primary School
Mosstowie Primary School is a non-denominational, rural school with 65 pupils in three composite classes. We are situated approximately three and a half miles west of Elgin in an idyllic setting between the adjoining communities of Miltonduff, Pluscarden and Mosstowie.
Pupils, staff, parents and friends in the local community are all proud to be a part of Mosstowie School and we work together in partnership to make a successful place of learning.
Mosstowie Primary School was built on its present site at the end of the last century and was originally a combined primary and secondary school. In 1962/63 the school was extended with the addition of two new classrooms, a hall and a staff room.
The present accommodation consists of three classrooms, a gym hall/dinner hall, a school office, a staff room and two smaller offices/teaching areas and a library area.
Outside we have very spacious grounds. In addition to having large sections of tarmac there is a grass sports pitch and an enclosed garden. This is also a large area of meadow surrounded by shrubs and trees with a number of pieces of permanent play equipment, sand pits, shelters and seats.
We also have direct access to a fabulous area of woodland full of scots pine, rowan, silver birch and other native trees.
3 School Ethos
The Mosstowie motto is, “Be Inspired – Be Inspiring!”
As a school community we aim to:
Promote the aims of Curriculum for Excellence Encourage all children to be successful learners Assist in the development of confident individuals through a happy caring ethos Motivate the pupils to become responsible citizens who respect others Involve the children directly in decision making about their education Inspire pupils to be effective contributors at school, in the local community and beyond
We are also committed to the Moray Council’s Education vision which can be found online: http://www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_43612.html
Curriculum Rationale The curriculum at Mosstowie Primary is built around a happy, safe and inclusive learning environment. Pupils work within a safe, nurturing environment that promotes both a healthy and active lifestyle. They are encouraged to reach their full potential through a wide range of opportunities and activities which develop life-long skills for an ever changing world.
Staff, pupils, parents and partners work together to lead learning for all pupils, to achieve success in all areas of the curriculum. Quality relationships, based on trust and respect, are at the heart of this. We work together as a school community to develop, promote and sustain an aspirational vision for our curriculum.
Our curriculum has a clear vision and rationale, shaped by the shared core values of the school and its community. It is grounded in our commitment to securing children’s rights, entitlements, with a continual focus on their health and wellbeing. The four capacities (successful learners, confident individuals, responsible citizens and effective contributors) are key aims.
School Roll & Classes The number of pupils we have at each stage dictates how we split the three composite classes. It is not always possible to have all pupils of the same stage in the same class and no composite class is allowed to exceed 25 pupils. For session 2019/2020 we will have a Primary 1-3 class, a Primary 4-5 class and a Primary 6-7 class.
The School Day for P1-P7 School begins at 9.00am Morning Interval: 10.30am – 10.50am Lunch Time: 12.30am – 1.30am End of school day: 3.20pm
Pupils should not be left unsupervised in the playground before 8.30am, when staff are on site, or after the end of day bell. P1 pupils – August 2019
4 Staff Mosstowie operates on a team basis with all teachers, visiting teachers, non-teaching staff, parents and members of the community working together for the benefit of the pupils.
Teachers P6-P7: Siobhan Evans (Monday – Thursday) & Garry Forgie (Fridays) P4-P5: Tracy Pick (Mondays, Tuesdays & alternate Wednesdays) & Lorne Urquhart (Alternate Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays) P1-P3: Nicole Fraser (Monday – Friday) Additional Support for Learning: Denise Kelly (Tuesday & Thursday mornings)
Quality Improvement Officer for Mosstowie Willem Smit
Visiting Instrument Instructors Brass: Alasdair Grant Recorder: Joan Allan Violin: Deborah Nealon Woodwind: Erin Carroll Guitar: Chris Henderson Drumming: Ross Martin Chanter: Ryan Anderson
Specialist Instructors Wendy West & Angela Philips – Scottish Dance Tracy Sinclair – Gymnastics Michael Stepney – Indoor bowling Sandra McIver - Curling
School Administrator: Mrs Shirley Miller
Support Staff ASN Auxiliary: Elaine Williamson Pupil Support Assistant –Shirley MacAndie & Janice Paterson Classroom Assistant & Children's Supervisor: Iain Sweeney Janitor: Raymond Asher (Tuesday p.m.) Kitchen staff: Rosie Souter
The Mosstowie Parent Council The Parent Council represent the views of parents and carers on the education provided by the school and other matters affecting the education and wellbeing of the pupils. All new parents are automatically members of the forum and are welcome to join the Parent Council at the annual AGM. The current elected, executive members for the Parent Council are as follows: Chair: Neil Urquhart Vice Chair: Alice Walters Secretary: Emma Gregg Treasurer: James Yool Social Media Coordinator: Emma Pearson-Brand Development Coordinator: Lesley Morrison
Further information about the Parent Council can be found at: https://www.mosstowie.moray.sch.uk/parental_information/parent_council/parent_council.html Local Nurseries and Pre-School Provision 5 Mosstowie Primary enjoys close links with two pre-school providers in the local area. Both centres benefit from a safe and stimulating environment. They have a range of age appropriate resources and space for indoor and outdoor learning. The children learn through play and planned activities which helps to prepare them for the transition to primary school.
Miltonduff Pre-School and Toddler Group Miltonduff Pre-School is currently held in the local village hall 5 mornings per week from 8.50 am – 12 noon. They provide pre-school education for the 3-5 age group with funded places for up to 13 children. From August 2019 the Pre-School hours will be: Monday – Wednesday 9am – 3pm. Thursday & Friday 9am – 12 noon. The Toddler Group is held in the hall on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 9am – 10.30am The group is open to all babies and toddlers. Drinks and snacks for the children and tea and coffee for adults are available. There are also 2-3 age group sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10.30am – 12 noon. For further information please contact Julie Goodfellow on 07738 159 805.
Ark Childcare Situated 1.6 miles north of the school, Ark Childcare caters for babies to pre-school children. Children can be left at the centre from as early as 7a.m. and as late as 7p.m. There is also a breakfast club and an after school club, for school aged children up to 14 years old. The centre operates during term time and also during holidays and local in-service days. For further information please contact Jo Maunder on 01343 551 664, or see their website: www.arkchildcare.net
Infant Induction at Mosstowie Our aim at Mosstowie is to make the transition from nursery to primary school a smooth as possible. We want it to be a happy time for both parents and children. All parents are encouraged to visit the school with their child prior to the summer holiday - especially if they are new families to the school or have not visited previously. In June, all new P1 pupils for August are invited to a Teddy Bears’ Picnic. This is a fun morning of games and activities where the children get to meet their teacher/s and other pupils who will be in their class. In the first week of P1, pupils attend school for mornings only. After that they attend the full school day from 9.00am to 3.20pm. All P1 parents are invited to an induction afternoon in term one. The purpose of this is for parents to meet the teacher/s, learn about school procedures and policies and to get advice on what they can do to help the ‘settling in’ process.
What parents/carers can do to help their children: Encourage them to be independent: managing zips, buttons and fasteners on their clothes and bags. dressing and undressing coats, shoes, jumpers and P.E. kit unaided. washing hands and toileting on their own.
When socialising and working with others encourage your child to: take turns share not to interrupt adults when they are talking tidy up when finished a task.
Belongings Please name all of your child’s clothing and personal items such as pencil case and packed lunch box Always put money in a sealed named envelope (this can also be used if change needs to be sent home) Always check your child's bag at night.
6 P1 Enrolment for pupils within school catchment zone Enrolment for P1 pupils takes place in January. Please contact us directly to establish that you are within our zone. The precise arrangements for enrolment are advertised by the Moray Council in the local press. Facebook, Twitter and on the Moray Council website. Enrolment forms are available both online and from the school office: http://www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_52987.html Children who will be 5 years old before the end of February usually start school in August of the same year. However, parents maefer entry to Primary 1 if their child is not yet 5 years old on the first day of the school year, if they consider that the child is not ready socially, emotionally or academically for Primary 1.
P1 Enrolment for pupils OUTWITH school catchment zone Parents must register their child at their local school, indicating their intention to make a placing request elsewhere. The Moray Council ‘Placing Request Forms PR1’ is available from the school office and from the Moray Council: http://www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_49601.html Children within the school catchment area have placing priority over pupils from outwith the zone. Out of catchment enrolments can only be offered if there are spaces available.
Enrolment during the school session Parents who wish their child to be placed in the school after the session has started should initially contact the school to arrange a visit.
Liaison with Elgin High School As we are a feeder primary school for Elgin High School, Mosstowie staff maintain a close liaison with colleagues at Elgin High School by means of discussion, inter-school visits and regular ASG meetings (Associated Schools Group). Greenwards Primary, New Elgin Primary and Linkwood Primary are the other primary schools in the Elgin High School ASG. Pupils who transfer to Elgin High School take part in a variety of visits to the school, including two full days in the final term. EHS guidance staff and subject teachers also visit Mosstowie throughout the year and there are also a number of visits from senior pupils from the high school. Transition arrangements with other secondary schools also takes place for pupils not going to Elgin High School. 7 Curriculum for Excellence - Bringing learning to life and life to learning
Curriculum for Excellence is in use across Scotland for all 3-18 year olds. It aims to raise standards, prepare our children for a future they do not yet know and equip them for jobs of tomorrow in a fast changing world. Curriculum for Excellence enables professionals to teach subjects creatively, to work together across the school and with other schools, to share best practice and explore learning together. Teachers and practitioners share information to plan a child’s ‘learning journey’ from 3-18, helping their progression from nursery to primary, primary to secondary and beyond, ensuring the change is smooth. Children work at a pace they can cope with and with challenge they can thrive on. Curriculum for Excellence balances knowledge and skills and provides pupils with a broad and deep general education, whatever their level and ability. Every teacher and practitioner is responsible for literacy and numeracy – the language and numbers skills that unlock other subjects and are vital to everyday life. Curriculum for Excellence develops skills for learning, life and work to help young people go on to further study, secure work and navigate life. It brings real life into the classroom, making learning relevant and helps young people apply lessons to their life beyond the classroom. It links knowledge in one subject area to another helping children understand the world and make connections. It develops skills so that children can think for themselves, make sound judgements, challenge, enquire and find solutions. The aim is to support young people fulfil their potential and make the most of their opportunities, with additional support, if that’s needed. There is a strong emphasis on children’s health and wellbeing and ensuring that children feel safe and secure. Ultimately, Curriculum for Excellence aims to improve our children’s life chances, to nurture successful learners, confident individuals, effective contributors, and responsible citizens, building on Scotland’s reputation for great education.
Curriculum Areas The curriculum comprises of the following areas: Expressive Arts Mathematics Social studies Health and Wellbeing Religious and Moral Education Technologies Languages Sciences Key to the success of Curriculum for Excellence is that Literacy, Numeracy and Health and Wellbeing are all taught across all of the curriculum areas.
Experiences and Outcomes. Curriculum for Excellence is planned using Experiences and Outcomes. The Experience describes the learning activity taking place. The Outcome describes what the learning will achieve. E.g. Knowledge, understanding, skills, awareness and attitudes.
The key aim is to give children the ability to apply knowledge and skills over a wide range of learning experiences across the curriculum areas. The experiences and outcomes under a Curriculum for Excellence for Nursery to P7 are written at the three levels indicated below. Some pupils will start learning at these levels earlier and others later, depending upon individual needs and aptitudes.
Early The pre-school years and P1, or later for some First To the end of P4, but earlier or later for some Second To the end of P7, but earlier or later for some Further information on the curriculum for excellence can be found at: www.ltscotland.org.uk/understandingthecurriculum https://education.gov.scot/scottish-education-system/policy-for-scottish-education/policy- drivers/cfe-(building-from-the-statement-appendix-incl-btc1- 5)/What%20is%20Curriculum%20for%20Excellence?
8 Literacy The skills required for communication are fundamental to the curriculum and to the needs of our society. The best teaching and learning results from the integration of the four elements of the language curriculum. Listening: Children need to be taught to listen effectively for information and to the ideas, views and opinions of others. Frequent opportunities for listening also improve pupils’ concentration. Talking: Pupils also need regular opportunities to express their ideas, opinions, questions and answers in a range of different situations and to different audiences. Reading: There is a high emphasis placed on developing reading fluency and comprehension. Writing: The conventions of written language (grammar, punctuation, spelling, handwriting) are taught from studying different types of text and also from the pupils’ own work. Editing their own and each other’s mistakes become valuable teaching points. Children are encouraged to produce written work that is relevant, effective, functional and imaginative.
Mathematics and Numeracy Mathematics is about understanding and using number in all its applications. Children need to develop a high level of competence in addition, subtraction, multiplication and division so that they can apply these skills in problem solving and real life situations. Practical activities, necessary for children to fully understand computation, come first. Children also need regular practise orally and in written form to ensure that they can access mathematical facts quickly and accurately. The ability to calculate quickly is essential and we give mental maths a high priority. Maths should also be fun and we aim to give the pupils tasks that are both challenging and enjoyable. Pupils are encouraged to help each other and discuss what they are doing. Discussion and other opportunities that allow pupils to explain understanding of the process, not just the answer to the sum, is essential. Success is measured by providing pupils with opportunities that allow them to apply their maths and numeracy skills and knowledge in different contexts.
Health and Wellbeing This is a fundamental part of all pupils’ education. This aspect of the children’s development is relevant across all areas of the curriculum and one that is closely monitored by staff. We aim to help our children develop self-awareness and self-esteem, become confident at dealing with various issues and build positive relationships. Learning through health and wellbeing promotes confidence, independent thinking and positive attitudes
We aim for all Mosstowie pupils to be able to: Make informed decisions in order to improve their mental, emotional, social and physical wellbeing Experience challenge and enjoyment Experience positive aspects of healthy living and activity for themselves Apply their mental, emotional, social and physical skills to pursue a healthy lifestyle Make a successful move to high school education Establish a pattern of health and wellbeing for life
Religious and Moral Education In line with national aims and policies, we aim to give the children the opportunity to develop an understanding of Christianity and other World religions. We also promote the development of social, moral and cultural values. For information on the Moray Council’s policy on religious observance go to: interchange.moray.gov.uk/int_standard/Page_111682.html
9 Residential Visit/School Camp Children from P5-P7 have the opportunity to spend three days and two nights on a residential experience. This session we are going to Abernethy Outdoor Centre near Aviemore.
Visitors and Outings To extend the learning opportunities visitors are welcomed into the classrooms throughout the year (e.g. RSPCA & RSPB, employers and local businesses as part of Developing Young Workforce). We also take pupils on curricular outings as appropriate. We try to subsidise outings as much as possible, but parents are, at times asked to contribute towards costs or to assist with transport using their own vehicles. All outings are risk assessed.
Homework Homework is an important part of a pupil’s development and is set in order to consolidate and extend the learning and teaching which takes place in the classrooms. It must be meaningful and appropriate, within the capabilities of the pupil and take only an appropriate time to complete. Reading will play an important part in homework in the earlier years. In later years homework is used by teachers to consolidate work across the curriculum.
School Rules We reward positive behaviour policy at Mosstowie and encourage children to be When representing effective contributors and responsible citizens at all times. Pupils review and Mosstowie, agree on the school rules (Mossie Says) 1. Try your hardest 2. Be Responsible & annually and are expected to follow them. Respectful them. Mossie the hedgehog is our school 3. Be Kind and Caring mascot! Pupils are expected to follow the 4. Be Understanding school rules at school, on a school trip or 5. Be Helpful & event and when travelling to and from Cooperative schoolin in arranged transport.
Expectations We also expect and encourage all pupils to: Carry out instructions given by staff respectfully and cheerfully. Work hard and to do the best of their abilities. Have a good attendance record at school and be punctual at all times. Behave in a polite, orderly and considerate manner Be neat and tidy in appearance and work
By setting these standards for our pupils, we aim to make Mosstowie a safe, caring and secure environment for all. At all times, our staff set a good example of conduct to encourage and promote a high standard of behaviour amongst the pupils.
Sanctions for misbehaviour in class can include: Up to 10 minutes of detention at break time. 20 minutes of detention at lunchtime. A written apology. A meeting with their teacher/head teacher and parents to focus on how to improve the situation. 10 Assessment On-going assessment of every pupil is continuous throughout the school year. We also make use of standardised assessments at P1, P4 and P7. Information which is recorded is used when a pupil transfers to another class or another school. Correction of pupils’ work is objective and diagnostic. It is used to assess the knowledge gained, the skills acquired and the concepts learned. Ongoing formative assessment techniques used during lessons ensure pupils are following explanations and acquiring skills and understanding, which they can apply in different contexts. Self assessment and peer assessments also play an important role in pupil development.
Additional Support for Learning The need for Additional Support for Learning is determined by on-going classroom assessment. The Support for Learning Teacher is timetabled for children who require extra help. This is delivered on a one- to-one basis, in a small group or through team teaching with the class teacher. Parents would be advised when staff identify the need to work with outside agencies such as the school psychologist, speech and language therapy, physiotherapy etc.
Pupils Committees/Consulting with pupils Pupils’ views and ideas on improving our school are represented on the following pupil groups and committees:
Pupil Council House Captains & Vice Captains Rota-Kids
Parents’ Interviews and Reports In the autumn and summer terms, parents are invited to meet with staff to discuss their children’s progress. Pupils from P4- P7 are also expected to attend these meetings. The pupils’ work is on display for children to share with their parents. Pupil profiles and reports are updated throughout the session, in line with the expectations of the Curriculum for Excellence, and are sent out electronically shortly before the second parents’ night in the summer term. These documents help to inform discussion at parents’ nights and help to identify the pupils future targets. 11 Statement of Procedures taken in the event of Bullying
At Mosstowie, we aim to create an environment and ethos, which actively discourages bullying, both physical and mental. In order to achieve this we have set in place the following protocol:
Staff will be vigilant at identifying and reporting any different, unusual behaviour or signs of distress. Any signs of unexplained or unexpected distress should be reported to the Headteacher. All parents are encouraged to report any signs of bullying, aggressive behaviour or teasing. Pupils are encouraged to help each other by reporting problems. This will not be seen as “telling tales”. Fighting back is not an appropriate choice and will meet with appropriate sanctions. All incidents reported to the Headteacher who will investigate fully and take appropriate action. Victims of anti-social behaviour will be made aware of adult support available to them in school. Staff will use a solution focussed approach, working with the pupils involved, to identify the problem and find ‘next steps’ to prevent further difficulties. Parents may be invited to school to discuss strategies to support and help the children involved. Parents will be informed of serious and/or repeated incidents and of sanctions and/or consequences. Records will be kept of all incidents and meetings held between pupils and staff.
In the event of these strategies not working Moray Council Policy will be followed which may result in exclusion. Incidents involving violence, dangerous weapons, drugs or alcohol will be reported immediately to Educational Services, and the Police may also be involved. Further information on the Moray Council policy on bullying can be found at: interchange.moray.gov.uk/int_standard/Page_111672.html
The pupils, parents and staff are very proud that in session 2018/2019 we had no recorded incidents of bullying in our school.
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13 Contact Details It is essential that we always have up-to-date information on contact numbers for all parents/carers so that we can reach you quickly in an emergency. In addition to this please ensure we have at least two emergency contacts of relatives or friends who would be able to assist if we are unable to contact you.
Communication with School Regular communication is vital to ensure that staff and parents work in partnership effectively. If you have any queries please contact the school office or the teacher who has responsibility for your child’s class directly. We ask that you avoid trying to speak to the teachers first thing in the morning, which is important preparation time to staff. The best time for ‘a quick word’ is at the end of the school day. However, to avoid disappointment, please make an appointment at the office or phone ahead because staff may have other meetings or commitments, such as in-service training courses to attend. Should you wish to contact the headteacher please check with the school office first as he may be teaching or have an out-of-school commitment.
Data Protection Information on pupils and parents/carers is stored securely on a computer system. The information gathered is subject to the terms of the Data Protection Act 2018. The information may be used for teaching, registration, assessment and other administrative duties. The information is shared with Moray Council for administrative and statistical purposes. Extracts of the information are shared with a range of partners such as Skills Development Scotland, the Scottish Qualifications Authority, and the NHS (for the dental and child health immunisation programmes). Information is also shared with The Scottish Government for statistical and research purposes, although individual children are not identified. The Data Protection Act ensures that information is collected fairly and lawfully, is accurate, adequate, up to date, not held for longer than necessary, and may only be disclosed in accordance with the Codes of Practice. More information is available on the Moray Council Internet site: http://www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_75569.html http://intranet.moray.gov.uk/documents/PandPLib/ES_Education%20and%20Social%20Care/DataProtectio nGuidanceAppendixA.pdf
Photography and Video We request that parents give permission to use photographs and video of pupils. Throughout the year we record pupils’ development and achievements through the use of media. We share this success on wall displays, in school publications, in Seesaw and on our school website: www.schools-online.co.uk/mosstowie
The Seesaw Online App The Seesaw phone app has proved to be very popular with pupils, parents and staff at Mosstowie. Parents are sent regular updates on pupil progress and attainment - including photographs, short videos of children achieving and examples of their work. Seesaw is a closed site that is password protected so parents only see posts that are relevant to their own children. Posts are received instantly on phone and/or computer and parents are able to add instant feedback to posts -which the pupils love. We also use Seesaw to inform parents of school events and important information.
14 School Uniform Pupils are encouraged to wear school uniform. A range of Mosstowie, polo-shirts, t-shirts, fleeces, sweatshirts and jackets are available to order direct from Dallas Designs: www.dallasdesignsltd.co.uk We prefer the Mosstowie items to be worn with standard school grey/black trousers, skirts and pinafores . All articles of clothing should be clearly marked with the name of the owner.
Gym Kit For P.E. pupils require to wear shorts and a t-shirts (no football tops please) and have either indoor gym shoes for hall times or outdoor trainers for outdoor activities. The P.E. kit should be kept together in a suitable gym bag that is clearly named. During the winter months P3-P7 pupils also use Miltonduff Village Hall for gym. Pupils need to come dressed appropriately for the walk to and from the hall and have a rainproof bag for their P.E. kit.
School Meals & Packed Lunches School lunches are free for all P1-P3 pupils. For all older pupils a two-course lunch is served every day for £2.30. This is payable by cash at the school office or online at: https://online.moray.gov.uk/site/wss/request/ipayimpact Parents should inform us of any special dietary needs for their children. Parents can also opt to provide a packed lunch for their child/children. Due to the possibility of children having food allergies, pupils are advised not to share, taste or handle foods from snacks or lunches of other children. The co-operation of parents in reinforcing this advice is much appreciated. All lunches are served in the school hall.
Transport to and from School
School Bus and Taxis Parents are responsible for the safety of their children, prior to pick up and following the departure of the school bus/taxi at the designated pick-up/set down points. If a child has to cross the road it is the parents’ responsibility. Misbehaviour on school transport may result in the permanent withdrawal of school transport.
Private Transport Staff are responsible for pupils’ well-being and safety at all times during the school day. Parents are responsible for pupils being delivered safely to school, on time, before the morning bell rings at 9.am. It is also the responsibility of parents to ensure that children are picked up from school, on time, each day. Pupils who find themselves waiting, uncollected at the end of the school day should return to school after approximately 10 minutes so school staff can contact parents or emergency contacts. Every effort will be made to contact an appropriate adult but should it prove impossible the police may be contacted to assist.
Parking and Road Safety For pupil safety, yellow lines indicate “No Parking” areas outside the school. We would also respectfully ask that parents do not to park on the blind corner at the top of the hill at the end of the day as this creates a dangerous bottleneck. Children and adults are not allowed to ride or park bikes in the playground when unsupervised and pupils should have completed a recognised cycling proficiency course before cycling to school. This is offered to P6 & P7 pupils each year.
15 Pupil Welfare and The Named Person Getting It Right For Every Child (GIRFEC) is a national policy to help all children and young people grow, develop and reach their full potential. It aims to improve outcomes for children and their families based on a shared understanding of their wellbeing. Most children will receive all the support they need from their own families and community. As part of the GIRFEC approach each child or young person is allocated a Named Person. At Mosstowie Primary the headteacher for the duration of time that any given pupil attends the school. On transition to another secondary school guidance teachers become the Named Person. All communication with school that involves child protection, social work or pupil welfare issues should therefore be made directly to the headtacher.
Absence If your child is unable to attend school please inform the school office (01343 547 119) before 9.30 a.m. on the first day of absence stating the reason for the absence and the likely return date to school. If we have not heard from you by 9.30 a.m. we will attempt to contact you or (where that is unsuccessful) the person/s you have named as your family emergency contact/s. In the unlikely event that we are unable to ascertain the whereabouts of a pupil we will contact the police for further investigation. Parents/carers can leave a messages regarding pupil absence on the school information line (see Information Line Instructions on page 14) or on the school mobile: 07967 774 8918.
Accidents / Illness In the case of illness or accident occurring during the school day, pupils may be treated in school by staff. When we are concerned about an injury we will contact you directly to inform you of what happened and, where appropriate, give you the option to come in to check your child or take them home, If it is necessary to send pupils home or to hospital, parents or emergency contact will be informed immediately.
Medication It is essential that parents inform the school of all medical needs. In line with policy agreed by the Senior Medical Officer, schools will only administer medicines with the written approval of a medical practitioner. Painkillers such as aspirin and paracetamol fall into this category, and will therefore not be administered on pupil request. The document, “Supporting Pupils with Medical Needs in Schools including The Administration of Medicines” is available at the school office and on the Moray Council website.
Concerns and complaints If you have any concerns or complaints we ask that you speak first to the teacher who has the responsibility for your child’s stage. To help us resolve any worry you may have quickly, it is important that you phone ahead or make an appointment to ensure that the appropriate member of staff is available. It is often very helpful to state in advance what it is you wish to discuss. If, having spoken to the class teacher, you require further information or are not satisfied please make an appointment to see the headteacher. A leaflet, ‘Resolving Complaints’ is also available from the Office.
Further Information If you require any further information about our school please contact us directly using the contacts provided on the front cover of this document. Moray Council has produced a “Notes for Parents and Carers” booklet, which is designed to provide basic information about the education system in Moray and also to detail specific areas of government legislation which may relate to your child's experience at school. This booklet (which is also available in other languages) is available from the school, from Education, Communities & Organisational Development, or the Moray Council Internet site: www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_47236.html 16 School Closure
Storm Procedure 1. If, on the grounds of safety, parents decide not to send children to school, every attempt should be made to inform the school of this. 2. In stormy conditions children should be accompanied to the bus pick up point by an adult. If the bus does not appear after 15 minutes we would advise you to return home and check the information line. 3. If the school bus cannot get out in the morning to pick up the children it can be assumed that the bus will not be able to get out in the evening to return the pupils to the pick-up point. 4. Parents who decide to transport their children to school when the bus does not arrive at the pick-up point in the morning will also be responsible for their return at night. 5. If the weather deteriorates during the day parents may collect their children. 6. Any decision to close the school rests entirely with the Head Teacher who liaises with the council. 7. Adverse weather conditions could result in the retention of children in schools or at nearby addresses. For that reason we request all parents nominate relatives or friends as emergency contacts who can, in an emergency, look after their children. 8. In stormy weather the procedure is as follows:
The Head Teacher notifies the council of the school closure Information goes onto the Moray Council website www.moray.gov.uk School Telephone Information Line is updated. Moray Firth Radio and BBC Radio Scotland are notified.
Information Line Schools now have a dial-in service if there is a risk of closure due to adverse weather. This allows parents to listen to a recorded message from the school, which will give you information about severe weather and any school closure.
This service also offers the following facilities: Up to 10 general school (non-urgent) announcements from the school (option 3 below) Parents can leave non-urgent messages, which are forwarded to the school If you have pupils at two schools Option 4 below allows you to enter the PIN for the next school without re-dialling.
How to Use the Information Line (charged at 2p plus call provider charges)
1. Dial 0870 054 9999 2. Enter your school’s PIN number: 031380 3. You will get confirmation message “Selected Mosstowie Primary” 4. You will then enter menu system: Press 1 – to hear severe weather information Press 2 – to leave a non-urgent message Press 3 – to hear general school information Press 4 – to enter a different school PIN number Press # - to end call
Please note: Parents wishing to leave an urgent message must speak in person to a member of school staff.
PLEASE LISTEN TO MORAY FIRTH RADIO DURING STORMY WEATHER.
17 School Improvement Plan Our School Improvement Plan is produced annually. This outlines planned developments aimed at improving the education of all pupils. Action plans arising from the plan may take anything from a couple of days to a year or more to implement. The Improvement Plan is monitored and supported by Quality Improvement Officers at Moray Council who visit the school to evaluate and support school staff. A summary of the plan is issued to all parents.
Our current improvement plan has targets to develop and improve the following:
Self-evaluation for self improvement Continue to use the Moray Health Check, Self-Evaluation Profile through the session and action any identified areas for improvement. Work with all stakeholders to update our Vision and Values. Improve communication with parents. Improve the way we gather the views of all stakeholders. Plan CPD opportunities and collegiate activity time with staff to work on all aspects of school improvement, with particular focus on 2.2 - Curriculum, 2.3 - Learning, teaching and assessment as well as any personal targets identified in teacher PRD meetings. Continue effective use of using available data and continue to share/discuss with all teaching staff.
Curriculum Work with all stakeholders to update our Vision and Values. Involve parents in their children’s learning with appropriate homework at all levels. Provide opportunities for parents to engage with the life and work of the school and to support pupils in their learning. Continue work on creating a curriculum map for Mosstowie. Continue work on progressions and planning format.
Learning Teaching and Assessment Continue work with ASG partners on moderation of writing. Maintain the high profile of literacy through participation in reading events, writing competitions and other stimuli. Purchase of new resources for maths. Time to plan effective use of new resources. Continue to evaluate the report profile report by taking views of all stakeholders: pupils, parents, teachers, secondary staff, and officers. Create a wall display to celebrate success and achievement.
Thank you very much for taking the time to look through our school handbook.
18 APPENDIX A
Moray Council Education, Communities & Organisational Development
Address: Council Office, High Street, Elgin IV30 1BX Telephone: 01343 563374 Hours: 8.45am - 5.00pm Monday to Friday Email: [email protected] Website: www.moray.gov.uk
Updated 15/10/2019
Moray Council A-Z Active Schools Telephone: 01343 563890 Email: [email protected] Website: www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_52055.html Additional Telephone: 01343 563374 Support for Email: [email protected] Learning Website: www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_42567.html Adverse Telephone: 0870 054 9999 (school information line) Weather Calls to this number will be charged at a 2p per minute service charge plus your call providers access charge Procedures Local school or 01343 563374 Email: Local school or [email protected] Website: http://schoolclosures.moray.gov.uk/ www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_53021.html After School Telephone: 01343 563374 Clubs Email: [email protected] Website: www.moray.gov.uk/moray_services/page_44889.html Armed Forces Telephone: 01980 618244 (Children’s Education Advisory Service) Families Email: [email protected] (Children’s Education Advisory Service) Information Website: www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_100164.html Attendance Telephone: 01343 563374 and Absence Email: [email protected] Website: www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_55580.html Bullying Telephone: 01343 563374 Email: [email protected] Website: www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_52988.html Childcare Telephone: 01343 563374 Email: [email protected] Website: www.scottishfamilies.gov.uk/ Children and Telephone: 01343 554370 or out of hours emergency 03457 565656 Families Social Email: [email protected] Work Website: www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_47606.html Child Telephone: 01343 554370 or out of hours emergency 03457 565656 or Protection 101 (Police Scotland) Email: [email protected] Website: www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_55497.html Clothing Telephone: 01343 563456 Grants Email: [email protected] Website: www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_55486.html
19 Moray Council A-Z Data Telephone: 01343 563374 Protection Email: [email protected] Website: www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_75569.html Deferred Entry Telephone: 01343 563374 to Primary Email: [email protected] School Website: www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_52991.html Disability Telephone: 01343 563374 Discrimination Email: [email protected] Website: www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_43019.html Early Entry to Telephone: 01343 563374 Primary School Email: [email protected] Website: www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_56925.html Early Learning Telephone: 01343 563374 & Childcare Email: [email protected] (pre-school) Website: www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_42682.html Education Telephone: 01343 563338 Maintenance Email: [email protected] Allowance Website: www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_40540.html Exclusion from Telephone: 01343 563374 School Email: [email protected] Website: www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_53001.html Free School Telephone: 01343 563456 Meals Email: [email protected] Website: www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_55486.html Grants and Telephone: 01343 563374 Bursaries Email: [email protected] Website: www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_43903.html Home Telephone: 01343 563374 Education Email: [email protected] Website: www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_53000.html Instrumental Telephone: 01343 563374 Instruction Email: [email protected] Website: www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_53005.html Placing Telephone: 01343 563374 Requests Email: [email protected] Website: www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_49601.html Racial Equality Telephone: 01343 563374 Email: [email protected] Website: http://www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_43019.html School Meals Telephone: 01343 557086 Email: [email protected] Website: www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_55540.html School Term Telephone: 01343 563374 and Holiday Email: [email protected] Dates Website: www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_55829.html Transport (For Telephone: 0300 123 4565 Pupils) Email: [email protected] Website: www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_1680.html
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