Every child matters,1 opportunities for all! Contents
Page Introduction 4
School details 5
Staff 6
Vision 7
Equal Opportunities 8
Daily routines 9-11
School uniform 12
Curriculum 13-17
Teaching and Learning 18
Health and global citizenship 19
Assessment and reporting 20
Inclusion 21
2 Contents
Safeguarding 22
Health and well-being 23
School Council 24
Extra Curriculuar Activities 25-26
Visits and activities 27
Parental Involvement 28
Home-School links 29
Complaints procedures 30
Appendices: Appendix 1: School term dates. Appendix 2: School governors. Appendix 3: End of Key Stage results Attendance data
3
Dear Parent/Guardian,
Thank you for taking the time to read about our school. This prospectus aims to give you a taste of what Ysgol Carno is all about and what our school has to offer your child. Members of our School Council have prepared a special page to give you a true insight of school life. You can also find much more about us on our school website: www.carno.powys.sch.uk. In addition to this please feel free to make an appointment to visit Ysgol Carno and see the school in action!
At Ysgol Carno we are aware of the enormous responsibility we carry as we strive to provide the best quality education for the children entrusted to our care. We believe that children gain most from learning in a friendly, happy and challenging environment and we pride ourselves on the broad and balanced education provided to our pupils. Our high standard of teaching is delivered by a dedicated and hardworking team of staff, who enable the children to learn in a friendly and supportive atmosphere. We always value the individual and we believe that their time in school should be rewarding and fulfilling.
At Ysgol Carno, we believe that children gain most from their primary schooling when parents, teachers and children work together as partners in learning. Parents are encouraged to contact the school at any time with any queries or concerns that they have.
We look forward to welcoming new parents and children to our school “family” and we hope that your child will find security and happiness at Ysgol Carno.
Yours sincerely,
Mr Nigel Hughes Miss Emma Rowlands
Executive Headteacher Acting Assistant Headteacher
4 Our School
Ysgol Gynradd Carno Primary School Carno, Caersws, Powys. SY17 5LH Telephone: 01686 420 209 Email: [email protected] www.carno.powys.sch.uk
A Welsh medium school run under the control of the Powys County Council. The school is part of the Federation of Carno, Glantwymyn and Llanbrynmair schools. Ysgol Carno is situated in the heart of Carno village next to the Community Centre, the bowling club and the village football fields. Ysgol Carno is situated along the A470 between Newtown and Machynlleth. Ysgol Carno pupils usually transfer to either Ysgol Bro Hyddgen, Machynlleth or Llanidloes High school.
FEDERATION OF CARNO, GLANTWYMYN A LLANBRYNMAIR
5 Staff
MEET THE TEAM!
Teaching staff
Nigel Hughes Bethan Williams Emma Rowlands Executive Assistant Acting Assistant Headteacher Headteacher and Headteacher and KS2 Teacher Foundation Phase Teacher
Bethan Lloyd-Owen Eifion Thomas PPA teacher Key Stage 2 Teacher
Classroom Support Staff and Clerical Staff
Elinor Ashworth Julie Lewis Claire Daniel Meryl Evans Foundation Phase Foundation Phase Classroom Assistant School Secretary Classroom Assistant Classroom Assistant
6 VISION
Our objective is to offer each and every pupil a wide balanced, appropriate and differentiated education based on their ability and interest. We strive to give each pupil an opportunity to develop and prepare them for life in their society. In addi- tion we strive to develop respect for their culture, heritage and also to develop an interest in their environment and towards the Welsh language.
AIMS
To provide a safe and healthy learning environ- ment which stimulates and supports the emotional and physical well-being of each child. To encourage each child to develop and gain confidence, re- spect and pride in themselves and others. To provide a variety of challenging experiences that enable children to participate in a bilingual community whilst being aware of their cultural heritage as well as national heritage. To provide a stable start to their school life through providing various learning strategies with skills as a foundation that pro- motes an engagement to learning. To celebrate children’s achievements and continue to progress through use of effective assessments in order to move the learning forward and establish a high standard. To develop children’s ability to work independently whilst promoting a pupil centred learning environment. To develop a good working partnership with parents that is focused on respect and aims for excellence.
7 EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES
We strive to promote positive attitudes in children, staff, governors and parents so that children can fulfil their potential and make choices, unhampered by expectations based on gender or role stereotyping. We seek to fulfil the school’s equal opportunities and good relations. Ysgol Carno is committed to promoting understanding of the principles and practices of equality and justice. Our aim is to equip pupils with an awareness of our diverse culture and to appreciate the value of differences. We are strongly committed to the notion that no member of the school community should be discriminated against on grounds such as colour, origin, culture, language, race, sex or ability. We believe that this is essential to promoting a strong sense of self-esteem which will in turn lead to successful learning across a broad and balanced curriculum. As a school in Wales we are particularly well placed to support children’s development of an understanding of Equal Opportunities because of both our culture and our languages. We are aware of our culture and heritage and take a pride in it. We believe our awareness of culture contributes to our understanding of our cultures around the world. The school follows the LEA admissions Policy which does not permit sex, race, colour, needs or disability to be used as a criteria for admission. The school will liaise with Powys LEA when assessing the needs and providing for children admitted with particular physical disability.
A copy of the school’s Strategic equality Plan is available by request.
EVERY CHILD MATTERS, OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL!
8 Daily routines
School times
9.00am to 3.30pm
Daily routines Breakfast Club 8:15 - 8:45 Registration 9:00—9.10
Lesson 1 9:10- 10:30 Morning break 10:30 - 10:45 Lesson 2 10:45 - 12:00 Collection at end of school day
Lunch 12:00 - 1:00
Lesson 3 1:00 - 2:15 Pupils should be collected promptly at 3.30 pm. We ask parents to collect their Afternoon break 2:15- 2:30 children from the school gates. If arrangements are different to usual, the Lesson 4 2:30 - 3:20 school must be informed verbally. This is essential in ensuring the safety of Assembly 3.20-3.30 each and every child in our care. End of day 3.30
9 Daily Routine
Attendance
As you know regular attendance is essential if children are to make the most of their time in school. In fact, regular attendance is essential to ensure your child's educational and social development.
Punctuality The bell rings at 9am, all children are expected to be on school grounds by this time.
1. Registration period will between 9.00am and 9.10am 2. A record of each child arriving late will be kept i.e. after registration. If this pattern will continue then further action will be taken by the school. 3. If your child arrives after 9.15am, without a satisfactory explanation will be marked as late. 4. The school follows the ERW attendance guidelines
Term dates and holidays ~ See attachment 1
Holidays during term time. In accordance with school Policy and ERW guidelines the school will not be permitting term time holidays. If pupils are taken out of school during the school term it is recorded as absent without authorisation.
Medical /Dental Appointments Absence due to illness
If children are unwell, or otherwise unable to attend school, parents are requested to inform the school as soon as possible by telephoning The school must be notified before by 9.15a.m. or 1.15pm in order to make a record of an authorised hand if your child has a medical or absence. The school must receive a written note explaining the rea- dental appointment. son for absence on the day the child returns to school. Unless we receive such a message within three days, the absence will be record- ed as unauthorised. In cases of long or frequent absences, or persis- tent lateness, the school has a duty to notify the Educational Welfare Officer.
10
Daily Routine
Water is Cool Campaign School meals: The school encourages all pupils to drink water School meals are prepared daily and transported from regularly. They may use their own water bottle in Caersws kitchen. They aim to provide a balanced diet class and there is a water cooler in the cloakroom. All over a three-week cycle and include a vegetarian children have access to fresh water during their lunch. option. Please see our website for current menu plans. Healthy Eating and wellbeing is an integral part of the school curriculum.
Lunches cost £2.20 a day Dinner money should be paid on a Monday morning, noting choices for the week. There is a designated box by the school entrance.
Some families are entitled to free school meals. Information can be obtained from the school secretary.
Packed lunches:
We ask children who wish to bring packed lunches to bring a healthy packed lunch. We do not allow children to bring fizzy drinks to school.
Healthy Playtime Snacks
Pupils are encouraged to bring in a piece of fruit to eat at break times. Pupils in Miss Rowlands' are encouraged to bring in a £1 a week and fruit will be provided for them. Pupils are encouraged to bring healthy snacks at break time.
11
School uniform
Governors would like all children to wear the school uniform outlined in the school dress code. It is expected that all children will wear the uniform daily. It is very helpful if every item of clothing is marked clearly with the child’s name.
Jewellery Pupils are only permitted to wear stud earrings.
Royal Blue polo shirt
Dark trousers/ skirt Sweat shirt
Suitable dark shoes
PE Kit Our PE consists of a blue T-shirt, dark shorts and light-soled trainers for sport and exercise; football boots and shin pads for football. On Friday, one piece swimming costumes for girls and swimming trunks that are above knee length for boys as well as a towel for swimming lessons. If your child wish- es to wear goggles please sign the appropriate form available in the office.
A swimming bag, book bag and hat will be given to all pupils as they enter the school for the first time. Uniform can be purchased by Mrs 12 Evans in the office.
The Curriculum.
The school is a designated Welsh School, with all pupils receiving their education through the medium of Welsh. The school follows the revised National Curriculum.
The Foundation Phase In the Foundation Phase pupils are taught from 3 to 7 years. Children are encouraged to learn through play, actively participating in all class activities during their time in the school. There is a balance between the child-initiated activities and adult-led activities within the classroom and emphasis is placed on devel- oping pupils' skills in line with the LNF.
Key Stage 2 Children follow the revised National Curriculum at Key Stage 2. All pupils between 7-11 year old are taught in one class. They are taught in Welsh, mathematics and science (the core subjects), Design and Technology, ICT, History, Geography, Art and Design, Music, Religious Education and Personal, Social and Health. English as a language is taught to pupils from year 3 onwards. Lessons are taught using a cross-curricular theme, ensuring skills are developed in line with the National Literacy and Numeracy framework. The revised curriculum has a clear focus on the needs of the learners and the learning process as well as giv- ing greater attention to the development and application of skills.
“Y Cwricwlwm Cymreig”
The nature of the whole Welsh curriculum is reflected in Ysgol Carno School Curriculum - we work hard to develop pupils knowledge of Welsh culture. This will enable pupils to identify the context of their local area and the wider community.
13 Curriculum Foundation Phase
The aims of the Foundation Phase is to enrich the learning experiences that involve children to be creative in their imagination and have fun while learning. The children have opportunities to explore the world around them and understand how things work by taking part in practical activities that are fun and relevant to their level of development. The Foundation
Phase places greater emphasis on experimental learning, participation and development among the following:
• Skills and understanding • Personal, social, emotional, physical and intellectual development • Create a positive attitude to learning so that they enjoy and want new things. • Develop relationship with children and others • To use expression and observations to encourage their development as individuals with different ways of responding to experiences using their creative skills • To use outside activities where they have direct experiences of solving real problems and learn about conservation and sustainability.
The Class follows a work-scheme based on the following teaching areas:
Language, Literacy and Communication Creative Development
Mathematical development Physical development
Knowledge and Personal and Social Development, Understanding of the World Well-Being and Cultural Diversity
How can you help? Before your child starts school we ask you to encourage them to be as independent as possible. Please try to teach your child to: • get dressed and undressed • use the toilet independently 14 • wash and dry hands carefully • share with others • to take his or her turn Curriculum
The Curriculum in Key Stage 2
Your child will follow a curriculum that develops basic skills– communication, reading, writing giving them opportunities to interpret the world around them. Pupils will be taught in accordance with the Literacy and Numeracy Framework.
The revised curriculum aims to: Focus on the learner Ensure that appropriate skills development is woven throughout the curriculum Focus on continuity and progression 3-19 Offer reduced subject content and increased focus on skills Be flexible Be relevant to the twenty-first century
Support government priorities. Priorities include:- Core subjects taught at KS2: Bilingualism Welsh Curriculum Cymreig English Wales, Europe and the World Mathematics Equal Opportunities Science Food and Fitness Education for sustainable and global citizenship The world of work for older pupils
Foundation subjects RELIGIOUS EDUCATION ICT History This school has no formal, direct connection with any religious denomi- Geography nation. The work in this subject is based on the Authority’s Agreed Sylla- Art bus and a copy of this Agreed Syllabus can be viewed at the school. Music Acts of worship on Christian lines are held at the school, which will pro- Design and Technology vide an opportunity for the children and the staff to assemble as a unit to share the experience of worshipping and rejoicing together. Physical Education
15 The Curriculum
Collective worship
Collective worship services are held at the school, these being mainly of a Christian nature. This enables the children and staff to meet together as a unit to share the experience of worship and rejoice together. We welcome visitors to participate in our services, eg, Rector, Minister or Charitable representatives. Arrangements can be made for children whose parents do not wish them to attend religious services or studies.
Christmas at Ysgol Carno
We celebrate Christmas in numerous ways: Collective worship discussing Jesus’ birth. Christmas Show/ concert Carol Service Christmas parties.
16 The Curiculum
Develop self– esteem Prepare pupils to work and responsibility. effectively individually and sociably.
Encourage positive attitudes towards the environment and local, national and international sustainability
Preparing children for challenges and decision making. Personal, Social and Health Education
Providing pupils with opportunities
to become part of their community A core part of the Foundation Phase
Helping pupils to live happy and healthy lives.
Sex and Health Education Sex Education is taught in accordance with the LEA and the Schools policy agreed on by the Governing body.
17 Teaching and Learning
Our goal is to produce learners who are fully motivated and increasingly responsible for their own learning. We hope to encourage pupils who can make full use of new technologies and will be able to learn and apply new skills effectively throughout their lives, whether at school, at work, or at home. Various teaching and learning startegies are used to engage pupils and to help them develop as part of our school and community. .
Mind Maps: The mind maps are one of the most powerful ways to enhance a child's learning. The map is a dia- gram that starts with the word / picture in central key, and then develops from the centre by combin- ing all the words / key drawings with lines and arrows to show connections. Maps are used to: ● Assess knowledge and understanding. ● Share ideas. Make connections between concepts. ● Reinforce previous learning experiences. ● Challenge thinking skills and extend learning.
Pupils create a mind map according to their age and ability.
Thematic Approach: Using Thematic approach children will have the opportunity to consolidate and apply skills in a com- pletely new context e.g Week; school visits to RSPB, Assembly etc..
Focus on the skills: We use the Department of Skills in the national curriculum orders and Learning Framework for Chil- dren 3-7 years to identify what skills should be focused on. Teachers are aware of the current skills and the skills previously taught, and they plan to use opportunities, so that all schools participate in the ongoing development, application and consolidate skills.
18 Health Promotion / Eco and Global Citizenship
The school is part of a 'Healthy School' and make every effort to ensure that this aspect of pupils' learning in a practical and convenient. Our school is a school smoke-free and smok- ing is not allowed at all on campus.
ECO The school is working on the project Eco-Schools, a program that provides a simple frame- work to enable the school to become more sustainable. The project promotes teamwork and helps to get everyone to understand what is necessary for everyone in the school will respect and enhance the environment.
The children are encouraged throughout the day to drink fresh water. Bottles can be filled as and when needed. .
Education for Sustainable Development and Global Citizenship The school is part of a number of projects that promote international relations. The aim of the project is to develop an understanding and knowledge of the world around them and develop them to become global citizens.
19 Assesment and Reporting
Assessment for learning Parents' Evenings and Reports
Assessment for learning: Parents are invited to Parents' evening and open evenings The school focuses on the attainment of pupils and how termly, giving the opportunity to look around the school, to to proceed: look at the children's work and to speak individually with What stage is a pupil on? the child's teacher. Written report will be distributed at Where are they aiming ? What is the best way to get there ? the end of the summer term. Parents are also welcome to visit the school at any time to Teachers plan for creating opportunities for assessment deal with their child's work or of just about any concerns for learning in order to develop detailed information that may arise. Parents who are concerned about educa- about individual learners' strengths and areas that need tional problems, behavioural or physical developments are more support. invited to meet the Head at any time.
The Child’s Voice
Mind maps This has encouraged them to take responsibility for their own learning and creating an atmosphere ethos of 'Growing Together, Learning Together'.
20 Inclusion
At Ysgol Carno all students are entitled to a broad and balanced curriculum, which is relevant to their individual needs. Our aim is to identify students who have additional learning needs, assess those needs in consultation with the parents and the students themselves and plan an appropriate, graduated response. We will seek to match the level of help we offer to the needs of the individual student. Progress will be reviewed regularly and parents will be consulted and kept informed. For some students, the school will want to seek advice from outside agencies such as the Educational Psychologist. This would be discussed with parents and they would be kept fully informed of any advice the school might receive. We strive to keep in touch with parents by inviting them to the school every term and also to contribute comments on their child's Individual Education Plan. All teachers in the school are aware of the importance of differentiation in order to provide a com- plete education and relevant to pupils. Depending on the task, discrimination occurs in the level of work, Marking and praise, expectations and class management, ie working in pairs, groups or individually.
The school caters for pupils with special educational needs by: Ensuring there are classroom assistants to support pupils with special needs. Using differentiated schemes of work inside a mixed ability groups. The Head teacher is responsible for organising the education of children with additional learning needs. One member of the Governing Body with responsibility for additional learning needs. Consultation and collaboration with outside agencies and additional learning needs Consultants within the County when appropriate.
21 Safety
In our school, the children's safety comes first. We have taken steps to en- sure that no external door open during lessons, and all visitors must come to the main entrance and ring the bell to get attention. In terms of school entrance we must work together to ensure pupils' safety. We also have a comprehensive whole school policy in promoting health and safety for all.
First Aid All staff must have up to date First Aid training.
Collisions and head injuries A letter will be sent to parents in such cases. We suggest that parents visit the doctor in these cases. Serious reports of accidents will be sent to the Health and Safety department at Powys County Council in accordance with the guidelines.
Illness or accidents at school: If your child is ill or injured at school, we ask you to collect them as soon as possible. An up to date record of phone numbers are kept and we ask that you let us know if the numbers change. In case of an emergency where a doctor is needed we will send for an ambulance and notify parents immediately.
22 Health and Well being
Behaviour
The school has an anti-bullying policy and Behaviour policy. The expecta- tions of the school, the rules and the response steps that are followed when necessary are all outline in the policy. It also offers guidance for you as parents on the way you could help us. A complete copy of the policies available in the school office, and the Headteacher is always willing to discuss matters relating to the conduct with parents and pupils.
Contacting School If any parent has concerns about their children they should contact the school immediately. Early intervention can help.
23 SCHOOL COUNCIL
The School pupils are represented by the School Council
Each year a new School Council will be elected by class members.
Through activities such as circle time in class, the issues raised will be discussed at meetings of the School Council. The children will work closely with the Headteacher and staff to ensure benefits for all pupils.
Meetings will be held regularly throughout the year between the Headteacher, governors and members of the School Council. The council raises concerns pupils may have at the school during the meeting and try to think of a way to move forward.
The School Council has a vital role in the running of Ysgol Carno!
24 Extra curricular activities.
Numerous after school clubs are offered at the school, including:
SPORTS
Cricket/tennis/ ` Netball and Football rounders Weekly during the Weekly in the Summer term. Summer term.
Disco and Folk Dancing
Weekly during the Spring term.
Hockey Weekly during the Autumn term.
25 Extra-Curricular Activities
Urdd
The school will participate annually in Urdd activities.
Each year we compete in the Eisteddfod, sport and art competitions.
Year 5 and 6 pupils have the opportunity to attend residential courses.
Each pupil must be a member of the Urdd in order to participate in these activities.
Cooking Club
A cooking club is held for all school pupils. The pupils will be able to take part in the COGURDD competition if they so wish. Urdd Club Urdd Club is held every week for all pupils in the school. Activities will vary between cooking, games.
26 Visits and activities
Year 5 &6 pupils receive the opportunity to visit outward bound activity centres.
Llangrannog Museum visits
Every child will receive the opportunity to experience a variety of activities: Coed y Dinas Lake
Techniquest
Blue Planet Aquarium Local Church
In accordance with the LEA policy, the school will ask for voluntary contributions from time to time, towards the costs of activities i.e. shows or educational visits. No child will be excluded from any activity if a parent cannot or wishes not to make a contribution. 27 Parents and the School
Friends of the School
Each parent will become part of the Friends of the school automatically. Your support is very valuable to us as a school. A warm welcome is extended to all to join in the meetings that are held to organise events and to raise money for the school.
The Friends hold a meeting every half term.
Entertainment Non– school evenings uniform days
Books Cake stalls
Parties
Disco
28 Home– School links
Homework
Appropriate homework will be given to pupils. We appreciate your help in supporting your child with completion. Reading regularly with your child would be a great help as would playing maths games every now and then.
Home school agreement
As parents, you are your child's first educators. Ysgol Carno appreciates your role in supporting your child as they develop a positive attitude towards education and learning. We ask you to sign an agreement between the home and school annually ; so that everyone is working towards the same goal together.
Sharing information with parents
The school strives to update parents on activities, events and so on through the school newsletter and calendar. In addition, notices are place in the window for parents to access. It is important for parents to check their children's bags on a regular basis to ensure that the messages get home. The following documents may also be provided by the school: - The school prospectus annual reports of child governors' annual report to parents
Closing the school in an emergency.
From time to time, especially in winter, situations may arise where necessary to close the school. Parents will be informed as soon as possible. However, if the school has to close at very short notice e.g Heavy snow, then this will be published on the Powys County Council website early in the morning before the school day. Notification will be given by staff at the main entrance and staff will endeavour to answer any queries by telephone. We also report on the school's web site at: www.carno.powys.sch.uk. 29 Complaints
We strive to provide the best possible education for our pupils and to care for their health, safety and welfare at all times. All staff at the school are committed to do this at all times.
Occasionally, however, you may have concerns. If this is the case please let us know immediately. We will do endeavour to resolve satisfactorily any reasonable problem that is brought to our attention. Parents who have failed to resolve the problems even after full discussion with the Head teacher should approach the Chair of Governors. The majority of problems are usually solved by now. On rare occasions, parents who are not satisfied can contact the Director of Education at;
Powys County Council County Hall Llandrindod Wells LD1 5LG
Arrangements regarding complaints relating to the curriculum or other matters will be set out in the guidelines issued by the Powys LEA. Copies of the policy are available in the school office on request.
30 Appendix 1
31 Appendix 2
32 Governor role Name Executive Headteacher Mr Nigel Hughes Support staff Mrs Elinor Ashworth Parent Governor Mrs Ann Owen Parent Governor Mrs Alwena Watkins Teacher Governor Mrs Bethan Gwawr Jones Support staff Mrs Sandra Pughe Parent Governor Dr David Whitworth Parent Governor Mrs Nia Meddins Parent Governor Mrs Corinna Rowlands Parent Governor Mrs Eirian Davies Local Authority Cllr G P Fychan Local Authority Cllr D C Jones Local Authority Cllr Rachel Davies Community Mr Iwan Morgan - Cadeirydd Community Mr Aled Griffiths Community Mrs Heather Lloyd Community Mr Pennant Jones Community Mrs Gwenfair Davies Local Authority Mr Gwion Aeron – Is-Gadeirydd Teacher Governor Miss Llinos Roberts Observer Miss Ceri Vaughan Observer Mrs Heulwen Jones Observer Mrs Mary Thomas Observer Mrs Sioned Campbell Teacher Governor Miss Emma Rowlands Clerk Mrs Eleanor Jones
33 Appendix 3
% achieving out- 2015 2015 2015 2015 come 5
Area School Family Powys School Wales Schools
Personal and 100 99 96 95 Social Development
Language 100 93 94 91 Development
Mathematical De- 100 98 93 90 velopment Foundation Phase 100 93 91 87 Indicator
34 % reaching Level 4 + 2015 2015 2015 2015
Subject School Family Powys Wales
Welsh 100 99 97 90
English 100 99 92 90
Mathematics 100 100 93 90
Science 100 100 94 91
Core Subject 100 99 90 88 Indicator
35