Headteacher: Mr Colin Sillett
01207 560235
Dear parents and carers
Welcome to Bishop Ian Ramsey CE (Aided) Primary School. Choosing a school for your children is a very important decision and one that could affect their future education and development.
It's sometimes a worrying time for parents. There are so many questions that you will want answered before you feel entirely happy to leave your child in our care.
You will probably want to know what your child will learn in school and how things are taught these days. You will want to know more about the National Curriculum and how the school is organised, and, most importantly of all; you will want to be reassured that your child will be safe and happy here.
All of us at Bishop Ian Ramsey want the very best for your child. For us, every child is special. We hope you will want to share in the children's education and that you will support the school in achieving it's objectives. We need the help of every parent if the children are going to aim high and do their best.
This brochure has been written to give you as much information as possible about the school. Each year, the information is updated and other information is issued in a monthly newsletter, so do keep this book in a safe place for future reference.
We hope you find this a useful guide to the school but if you have any questions, concerns or ideas that you would like to share about the information, we would be pleased to hear from you.
If you would like to visit the school, please let us know in a convenient time for you so that we can arrange to meet.
With best wishes from s
The Headteacher and all the Staff.
Bishop Preface
As you probably know this school, Bishop Ian Ramsey is one of the families of 56 Church Schools in the diocese of Durham, in which over 11,000 children are educated. In the past the Church of England did much to pioneer education in this country and this school represents the continuing partnership between Church and State at local and national level, in the provision of education today.
Over 20% of all schools belong to the Church of England and they educate over 850,000 children. This is a significant enterprise.
Church schools, as they serve the Community in which they are set, seek to be distinctive in the education they offer. The Christian ethos, which underpins all their work, and the particular attention that is given to the spiritual and moral development of pupils, makes them special. It is my hope that through the dedication of the Headteacher and Staff this school will provide your child with the sound education in an atmosphere of Christian love and care.
We believe that parents have a vital role to play in partnership with the teachers in the education of their children. We hope that the information contained in this booklet will help you to play our part. I am sure that the Headteacher will be very happy to discuss your child's progress and to give you any help and advice you may require.
As a Church School, your School like every other school enjoys the great resources provided by the Local Education Authority but, in addition, it can call upon the staff of the Diocesan Board of Education. It's Governors meet regularly to give the staff the support they need and to ensure that your child is given the best possible education. I hope that your boy or girl will find this Church School a happy place and a community in which he or she can grow and flourish.
Michael Dunelm - Bishop of Durham
AIMS OF THE SCHOOL
At Bishop Ian Ramsey CE Primary School, we aim to provide a secure, positive learning environment for the children where expectations and achievements are high and include the National Curriculum requirements. Everyone in the School Community values social responsibility; we value self and respect others regardless of race, faith, gender and ability. We encourage the spiritual development of the children and the knowledge of God and the world.
We encourage an active partnership between school and parent in the education of their children both at home and in school.
CURRICULUM AIMS
The first section of the Education Reform Act establishes general principles, which must be reflected in the curriculum of all pupils. This entitles every pupil to a curriculum which is balanced and broadly based and which, as the Act says
· "promotes the spiritual, moral, cultural, mental and physical development of pupils at the school and of society; and
· prepares such pupils for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of adult life."
This has important implications for our school curriculum. Key points include the following;
1. the principle that each pupil should have a broad and balanced curriculum which is also relevant to his or her particular needs, is now established in law
2. that this principle is reflected in the curriculum of every pupil
3. the curriculum will promote development in all the main areas of learning and experience which are widely accepted as important
4. the curriculum will also serve to develop the pupil as an individual, as a member of society and as a future adult member of the community with a range of personal and social opportunities and responsibilities
5. The school is developing clear curriculum policies, within the framework offered by the 1986 Education Act and aims to offer the National Curriculum including three CORE subjects and six foundation subjects which must be included in the curricula of all pupils. Children will be assessed formally at the end of Key Stage 1 (7 years) and at the end of Key Stage 2 (11 years)
6. To aid Government target setting forecasts, Y3, 4 and 5 will be given non-statutory SATS and Reception pupils will receive statutory benchmarking assessments during September
MISSON STATEMENT
We aim to offer every pupil an insight into the Anglican Faith and provide them with moral values and the difference between right and wrong by employing a significant number of practising Anglican staff and teach an understanding of, and respect for other major world faiths.
This booklet is designed as a guide to the policies, practices and procedures of the above school.
There are 133 children on roll who are divided into 5 classes - 2 Infant and 3 Junior. As there are seven academic years in the Primary school and because of the number of children we have, we are allocated 6 teachers. This means that some of the year groups have to be divided. When this happens, Infants and juniors will be placed according to their age, or academic ability and maturity. Each teacher has responsibility for both the academic work and pastoral care of his/her class. The Deputy and I are available for extra support or advice if sought for. Tuition is given in the form of individual teaching, group work and whole class lessons. The children are set from Y1 for the morning Literacy and numeracy sessions. Progress depends on the child's ability rather than the class he/she is placed in. There is a special Educational Needs Support teacher for those in need of extra educational support.
(Class 1 - 30 pupils, Class 2 - 26 pupils, Class 3 - 19 pupils, Class 4 - 28 pupils, Class 5 - 26 pupils).
Teaching Staff
Mr P Ewart (deputy head) - Design Technology, Science, P.E., Maths, National Curriculum Records - Class 1
Mrs P Stonehouse - Language, Music - Class 2
Miss S Milner - Information Communication Technology, Art, Early years - Class 5
Mrs E Cook (NQT) - Class 5
Miss C Jackson - History, Geography - Class 4
Miss S Settrey (NQT) - Class 3
Mr C Sillett - Headteacher, Religious Education, PSHE
Special Needs, INSET
Mrs M Ashby - S.E.N.S.S. Special Needs Support Teacher
Mrs G Marshall - Special Needs Support
Mrs L Guest - Secretary
Mr A Hall - Caretaker
Mrs Hall - Cleaner
Mrs C Mellons - School Crossing Patrol
Ms L Ellishaw - Educational Welfare Officer
Mrs K Camsell - School Nurse
Mr I Keddie - School Psychologist
Meals Staff
Mrs K Hymer (cook) and Mrs J Newbold (assistant)
Meals Supervisors
Mrs J Guy (infant), Mrs A Lucas (infant) and Mrs J Gibbon (junior).
Classroom Assistant - Mrs J Gibbon and Mrs D Haggon
School Hours
Infants 9.00 am - 12.00 am
1.00 pm - 3.15 pm
Juniors 9.00 am - 12.30 pm
1.15 pm - 3.15 pm
Your child should not be in the playground before 8.50am or return to school if he/she goes home to lunch before 12.45 p.m.
Starting a new school should be an experience that is a happy one and a secure environment is vital to learning. Links between home and school are very important and we hope that we will develop good relationships with all our parents. Parents are welcome into school at any time to discuss problems whether they are social or academic.
However, it is necessary to make an appointment. Only in an emergency will I leave a classroom. All visitors are requested to see me first. A termly invitation to see the children's work and discuss with the class teacher their child's progress is held at the end of every term. Formal school reports will be issued and set parent-teacher interviews will be arranged at the end of the summer term.
The school curriculum is wide and varied encompassing as many concepts and skills as we can offer which we feel the child living in a technological age will require. The basic 3R's may not be taught in the manner that you were accustomed to as our approach is based on studies and reports over recent years. The way the early stages of education are handled is crucial and development can be marred if great care and expertise is not applied. We ask for your co-operation and are only too pleased to discuss our approach with you. When parents ask what they can do to help their child I always say, "Talk to your child and hear him/her read regularly". This type of parental support cannot be over-estimated. It is invaluable!
CHILD PROTECTION PROCEDURES
The school operates a Child Protection Policy to which parents are welcome to examine. Cases of abuse that come to our attention may be referred to the investigative agencies in the interest of the child.
COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE
Contact the Area Education Officer, School and Governors Support Service, County hall, Durham DH1 5UJ. Tel 0191 3834569.
CHARGING FOR EDUCATIONAL VISITS DURING SCHOOL TIME
Parents are asked to voluntarily contribute a donation to such events, but if insufficient money is contributed then the event is cancelled.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES
A policy exists within the school which follows both the County and Diocesan guidelines committing the adopt of equality of opportunity and freedom from discrimination on the ground of race, sex, intellectual or physical capability, social or cultural background or sexual orientation in the education service it provides.
MEDICINES
We prefer parents to administer prescribed medication, however in an emergency or if this method is impossible, then parents are asked to fill in a medication indemnity form before a teacher can administer it. If a child has asthma the parent must complete the asthma form which is kept in the school with an inhaler clearly marked with the child's name. If your child is allergic to elastoplast please inform us.
CLOTHING
Our school uniform is optional, though strongly recommended. But may make a request for suitable clothing, not high-heeled shoe etc. All clothes should be clearly labelled. Watches are the only jewellery allowed. Juniors require indoor shoes and all children should have a P.E. kit in school during the week. Infants will also require a change of footwear in the wintry months.
Boys: Grey trousers. A grey or white shirt or polo neck. Bright red jumper, cardigan or sweatshirt (available through the school with the school badge).
Girls: Grey pinafore or skirt. Grey or white blouse. Bright red jumper, cardigan or sweatshirt (available through the school with the school badge).
P.E Kits are available through the school consisting of poloshirt, shorts and drawstring bag.
ABSENCES
A letter explaining a child's absence is required. If a child has to leave the school for a medical appointment the teacher must be informed. Children can be collected from school only by a parent or someone known to them. A letter is also required giving reasons explaining the necessity to keep a child inside during a break.
SCHOOL MEALS
We are fortunate to have our meals cooked on the premises. It is the policy of the school to let the children choose what they wish to eat - but they are then expected to eat it - not waste it. If a child is a poor eater the parent should discuss this with the teacher. The week's dinner money is collected on a Monday. If a child is staying for example Wednesday only, the money is still required on the Monday with a note. All moneys sent to the school should be in a purse or envelope, named. Free meals application forms are available at the office. Vegetarian meals can be accommodated, providing the cook is given prior knowledge. Provisions are made for children bringing packed lunches.
EDUCATIONAL ACT 1981 - SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEED
Close observation of the individual is ongoing throughout the child's primary years. All areas are observed - physical, academic and social. When a teacher has identified a child to be 'in need' in some area, the Headteacher is informed. After a period of observation, discussion and action the parent will be informed if no progress has been made. After continued work with the Headteacher, class teacher and S.E.N.S. teacher and there is still little or no progress the parent will be informed that further agencies should be contacted e.g. Psychological Service, Medical Team. At all times parents will be kept informed. Children are classified under a 5 stage level of special needs support and regular Parent Review Meetings will be arranged.
PARENT GROUP
The parent group 'Friends of the School' meet regularly in school and welcome new members. As well as providing us with a wide range of social events and enjoying their own meeting, they provide the school with extra finance, which boosts our school fund magnificently. A weekly school fund collection of between 1p and 20p is taken each Monday morning. This is not compulsory but very much appreciated.
PRE-SCHOOL
A pre-school for 15 children is held within the school on Monday to Friday mornings 9am - 11.30am and 12.30pm - 3.00pm. The pre-school aims to offer a well planned, pleasant and stimulating environment for children from the age of 3, to develop pre-school skills. It also enables children to become familiar with the teaching staff and the environment before entering the Reception class. Registration forms can be obtained from the school office or by contacting Mrs Kath Bullock via the school.
CURRICULUM
There are structured schemes of work in the school in line with the National Curriculum under the following headings:
· English
· Mathematics
· Information Communication Technology
· Design Technology
· Geography
· History
· Science
· Teaching of Handwriting
· Health and Hygiene
· Religious Education
· Music
· Art
· Physical Education
· PSHE
. PE
Physical Education and Swimming are part of our Curriculum and medical grounds are the only reason for not partaking in either of these. The children are expected to undress so that they are suitably clad for P.E. It is both dangerous and un-hygienic to work fully clothed. Parents are asked to provide suitable clothing for P.E. - (indoors work - shorts and light top, outdoors work - shorts/leggings, top/sweatshirt, and trainers/plimsoll's). Tracksuits are also accepted outdoors clothing. Children should work in bare feet for indoor P.E.
SECONDARY EDUCATION
The nearest Secondary School is Blackfyne Comprehensive School. To prepare children for their new school they are taken there one day in their last term here. Blackfyne sends out invitations for the parents to visit the school. The links are kept with this school by regular liaison meetings with the Headteacher and senior staff.
HOMEWORK
Formal homework is given from spellings, numeracy and literacy activities. But if a teacher feels a child would benefit by additional practice in some area or needs to finish unfinished class work, extra work will be given. Year 5 and 6 children take weekly homework relating to their curricular themes.
DISCIPLINE
We are all involved in promoting high standards of behaviour and manners. We have a Behaviour Policy, a Bullying Policy and a Positive School Discipline Plan. We develop modification programmes for children who present problems. Parents are involved and we look to them for support. We have school rules that should not be broken and sanctions that are imposed when they are. The staff work as a team promoting good behaviour and we are all involved in an effective reward system.
In order to maintain an organised happy environment it is necessary to have some rules - these are all based on the teaching of good social habits and preventing accidents.
On the whole, a firm word or temporary exclusion from an activity is usually enough to deal with any trouble. The parents are informed of any on-going untoward behaviour. Incidents of bullying should be reported immediately and both parties kept fully informed.
ACCIDENTS OR ILLNESS
Serious accidents or sudden illness do occur while children are at school. A form is provided asking for emergency contacts, Doctors names etc. On completion this is filed in the office. Please keep us informed of any change in this information.
The School Nurse visits us frequently. Selective medical examinations of your child can be carried out on a parental or staff request as a need arises.
Every effort is made to make school life happy for the children and parents are invited to come and see me if there is a problem or they need reassurance on any matter.
ACCESS TO DOCUMENTS
Parents have the right of access to the following documents:
· The L.E.A.'s Statement of Curriculum Policy and where it exists, the Governing Body's Statement of Curriculum Aims
· Any statutory instruments (including N.C. subjects), circulars sent to school by the Department
· Any published H.M.I. reports which refer expressly to the school
· Any schemes of work currently used by the teachers in the school
· A full copy of the arrangements for the consideration of complaints about the school curriculum made by the L.E.A.
· Religious Education Policy Statement
· Their child's National Curriculum Records
RE AND COLLECTIVE WORSHIP
Being a Church School, we teach our Christian faith through our way of life as well as direct lessons based on the 1993 Durham Diocesan R.E. Syllabus. It is approached in a thematic way and could be included in art, music, nature, etc. In accordance with the 1944 Education Act parents are entitled to withdraw their children from Religious Instruction and Collective Worship. If parents insist on their rights their child would be deprived of many experience as well as the joys of the annual festivities such as Nativity plays and Easter competitions etc. Children withdrawn are given work to do in the library. Parents who feel that they may wish to withdraw their child should discuss this with the Headteacher.
SPORT
· We aim to provide our children with Physical Education and Sporting opportunities both within school time and extra curricular time.
· We hope to develop opportunities to participate, develop potential and talent of individuals and to raise concepts of fair play, self discipline, learning to live by laws/rules and appreciating others
· We strive to develop links with local sporting clubs and organisations in partnerships of sport. These have included Consett Rugby Club, Shotley Bridge Tennis Club, Consett District Under 11 and Consett District Under 12 Football teams.
· Parents with Sports Leaders Awards regularly help alongside class teachers in curriculum time
· Extra curricular time involves staff and children in inter-school football and netball matches and competitions.
SPORTS WITHIN SCHOOL
Netball, soccer, new image rugby, kwik cricket, unihoc hockey, cross country, swimming and high five (netball).
Outings are arranged frequently in both Infant and junior departments and each year the top class juniors go to a Residential Field Study Centre and Keilder Outward Bounds Centre.
MUSIC
There are recorder groups held during break-times for children who have a
Musical leaning. A group of selected children have paid violin lessons - Peripatetic Teacher - Mr B Armishaw and guitar lessons with Mr Coates
LANGUAGES
An after school French class will be held on Monday and Thursday evening (3.15 - 4.15) in school run by Mrs Laidlaw. The cost is £4 per session.
CAR PARKING
Would vehicles involved in delivering or collecting children to or from school please refrain from parking on the zigzag lines at the school entrance or using the black path Junior entrance for reversing or parking.
SEX EDUCATION GUIDELINES
(Sex education incidental)
· After careful consideration the Governors of the school have decided that the school should offer a programme of sex education. It will be appropriate to the pupil's age and experience and will be presented within a moral, family-oriented and Christian framework.
· Attitudes, fears and beliefs about sexuality and relationships, pregnancy and birth are acquired from infancy from many sources: family, half-hearted references, peer group discussion, the media and literature. Some such information may be neither accurate nor positive.
· In order that our children may develop a positive and healthy attitude to sex, sexual values/attitudes and relationships and also learn an acceptable Christian standard of moral behaviour: our staff will endeavour to teach about sex and sexual matters throughout both Key Stages (in a way appropriate to the ages of the children concerned) so that these attitudes, values and moral standards are reinforced.
· Parents will have the right to withdraw their children from all or part of the sex education offered.
TIMETABLE
Hours spent on teaching during the normal school week, including R.E., but excluding the statutory daily act of collective worship, registration and breaks (including lunch):
INFANT 21 hours 40 mins
JUNIORS 23 hours 20 mins
The school operates a mixed age and ability grouping of children with bright juniors promoted when age groups are split.
KEY STAGE 1
This consists of Reception (4-5), Year 1 (5-6) and Year 2 (6-7). All children will receive the National Curriculum 10 subjects: Maths, English, Science, Design Technology, History, Geography, Music, P.E., Art and Religious Education. Other cross-curricular areas will include Health and Environmental Education, Personal and Social Education, Citizenship and Economic Understanding. Most of the work will be delivered through topic work and will be continually assessed.
KEY STAGE 2
This consists of Year 3 (7-8), Year 4 (8-9), Year 5 (9-10) and Year 6 (10-11). The curriculum offered remains the same as the children move through the National Curriculum Levels of Achievement according to the individual child's ability and it is formally assessed prior to transfer to Secondary Education.
ADMISSIONS POLICY
(Criteria in Priority Order)
1. Subject to the number approved by the Local Education Authority, no limit on the number of admissions if within eligible age for the school (currently 5 to 11)
2. Where the parental home is nearer to the school that to another eligible school
3. Where the child to be admitted has a brother or sister at the school
4. Where brothers or sisters were former pupils at the school
5. Where the parents make a special request, on social or medical background, the reasons will be considered on their merit
6. Preference to be given to children of families of Anglican faith
EXCEPTIONS
The Governors may refuse admission to any child on the following grounds:
1. Admission of the child would be incompatible with any agreement made with the Local Education Authority
2. Admission of the child would prejudice the provision of efficient education or the efficient use of resources
This is information is correct at the time of printing but may be subject to change before or during the 1999/2000 school year.