Brochure Page 1 Page 2 Page 4 Contents Page
Admissions policy
All admissions shall be determined by the Governing Body of the school which reserves the right to consider each application on the grounds of the criteria set out below.
The catchment area of the school is the Parish of Our Lady of Lourdes, Shotton which takes in the villages of Shotton, Haswell and Haswell Plough.
Where there are more applications for admission than there are places available the following criteria will be used:-
1. Baptised Catholic children from parish catchment area with brothers and sisters already in the school.
2. Baptised Catholic children in the catchment area with no brothers or sisters in the school.
3. Baptised Catholic children from surrounding areas who wish to attend the school.
4. Non-Catholic children who have brothers or sisters in the school whose parents are committed to Catholic education.
5. Non-Catholic children to a maximum of 15% of the total number on roll, priority being given to those living within the catchment area. Parents of non-Catholic children would apply to the Governing Body and reason for seeking admission to a Catholic school would need to be clearly defined.
Sex Education
There is no formal sex education teaching within the school. We deal with questions sensitively as and when the need arises. The answers given would be relative to the age of the child. In preparation for formal sex education lessons, preliminary steps are taken within the context of religion and science. In religion when dealing with Creation we talk about creating new life. Emphasis is given to loving relationships, family life and moral values. Science deals with living things - how plants and animals reproduce - like produce like. In healthy living emphasis is given to cleanliness and care and respect of our bodies.
Parental Visits
Parents are always welcome in the school. Please do not hesitate to contact the Head Teacher if you are concerned about your child's welfare or progress. If you wish to see the class teacher then arrangements must be made in advance. Parents are invited to attend Open Day/Night, the Christmas Carol Service, Sports Day, medical inspections and other functions which may occur. A great interest in your child's education means that home and school together can provide a sound educational environment for the good of your child.
Absences
If a child is absent from school then a note must be sent to explain the absence. If children are required to leave school during school hours for dental or hospital appointments then school should be notified in writing. Children leaving the premises during school hours must be accompanied by an adult. If it is possible please make the above appointments after school hours or during holidays. If you know that your child is likely to be away from school for any length of time then a phone call or message would be appreciated. In the event of illness or accident at school, parents will be informed as soon as possible and sensible action will be taken by the staff in the meantime. It is very necessary that forms showing address, telephone number, family doctor, alternative address etc., are kept up to date.
Authorised absence for the Year 99/00 is 5.23%.
Unauthorised absences for the year 99/00 is 0%.
School Uniform
The wearing of a limited version of school uniform is encouraged.
Boys
Yellow polo shirt, grey trousers, royal blue school sweatshirt. In Summer grey or dark shorts may be worn if preferred.
Girls
Yellow polo, grey skirt or pinafore, royal blue school sweatshirt or cardigan. In Summer a blue gingham dress may be worn if desired.
Sensible dark shoes to be worn at all times, no heels or trainers please. Sweatshirts and cardigans are available from school. Please ensure that all children's clothes are clearly marked with the child's name as we cannot be held responsible for any unnamed garment which goes missing.
SPORT
Our aim is to provide a broad and balanced curriculum which fulfils the statutory requirements of the National Curriculum and which provides for the needs of the children at Our Lady of Lourdes School.
In consultation with the Physical education document we recognise that Physical Education contributes to the overall education of young people by helping them to lead full and valuable lives through engaging in purposeful physical activity. It can:-
* develop physical competence and help promote physical development;
* teach pupils through experience, to know about and value the benefits of participation in physical activity while at school and throughout life;
* develop an appreciation of skilful and creative performances across the areas of activity.
Junior pupils also have swimming lessons held at Shotton Primary pool. The school has both netball and football teams.