Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus 2013/14 RUSTINGTON COMMUNITY PRIMARY SCHOOL A River of Learning INFORMATION FOR PARENTS “The vision of this school is to nurture children in our community. They will foster and develop creative thinking and an enjoyment of learning as part of the journey towards becoming lifelong learners. In doing so they will understand the need to be healthy, how to stay safe and learn the skills to do so. They will be encouraged to make a positive contribution to their community and society through developing good manners, co-operation and communication skills.” The information contained in this prospectus was correct for September 2013 RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 0 Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus 2013/14 Contents: From the Headteacher Vision and Core Values The Aims of the School Safeguarding Statement Staff: Outside Agencies Connected with the School Local Education Authority and Schoolsworks Premises: Procedures: The School at Work: Pastoral Care: RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 Teaching Staff Teaching Assistants Administrative Roles Governors Security Map of School Applying for a School place Transport Preliminary Visits Welcoming the Children Notification of Absence Authorised and Unauthorised absence Accidents at School Emergency Contacts Medicine School Health Service Insurance Lost Property Jewellery Money in School Mobile Phones Public Access to Documents Parking Break time Snacks School Meals School Milk Uniform The School Day School Behaviour Bullying Preventing Bullying Providing Support Page 3 4 5 6 7 7 8 8 9 9 10 11 12 12 13 13 13 14 14 14 14 15 15 14 15 15 16 16 16 16 16 17 17 18 19 20 20 20 1 Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus The Curriculum The Learning Environment: The Foundation Stage – Early Years The Core Subjects: Other National Curriculum Subjects: Governors’ Policies: Term Dates 2013/2014 RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 2013/14 Presentation of Work Subject List Subject List Extra Curricular Activities Home Learning Assessment, Recording, Reporting & Monitoring of Progress Children with Special Educational Needs Gifted and Talented Pupils Pre-school Liaison Parents in School Complaints Charge and Remissions Sex and Relationship Education Policy 21 22 23 24 25 28 28 30 30 30 30 31 31 32 32 34 2 Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus 2013/14 Dear Parent or Carer Thank you very much for your interest in Rustington Community Primary School, an academy in the Schoolsworks Academy Trust. We aim to create a school where learning is central to everything we do and where the needs of all learners are met. To this end we regard the school as a ‘River of Learning’ through which children make a journey and these ‘learning journeys’ are a central theme of the school. We also work closely with other schools in our local area and across West Sussex who are committed to an enriching and stimulating curriculum and in giving children the best possible opportunities in learning how to learn. You will find enclosed in this prospectus information that will help to provide a more detailed understanding of how the school works and what we hope the children will achieve in their learning. Whilst I believe this information provides a true and fair introduction to the activities and facilities available at our school, there is nothing better than seeing for yourself how we work on a daily basis. If you would like to do this please make an appointment with Mrs Flint, at School Reception, who will arrange a tour of the school. I will also usually be available to answer any questions you may have. Should you wish to make a separate appointment to meet with any member of staff, please do not hesitate to contact Mrs Flint. At Rustington we believe that a successful education is rooted in the special relationship between pupil, parent and teacher. The staff and I wish to share your aspirations for your child and aim to work with you to provide a secure, happy and stimulating school environment. We hope your child thrives at our school as we encourage them to learn and to prepare them for the next stage in their journey. Yours sincerely N J WHITE Headteacher RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 3 Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus 2013/14 Rustington Community Primary School “The vision of this school is to nurture children in our community. They will foster and develop creative thinking and an enjoyment of learning as part of the journey towards becoming lifelong learners. In doing so they will understand the need to be healthy, how to stay safe and learn the skills to do so. They will be encouraged to make a positive contribution to their community and society through developing good manners, co-operation and communication skills.” Enjoy and achieve Core Values Stay safe Be healthy Make a positive contribution Achieve a positive well being RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 4 Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus 2013/14 Rustington Community Primary School North Lane, Rustington, West Sussex, BN16 3PW Tel: (01903) 785271 Fax: (01903) 850743 Email: office@rustington.w-sussex.sch.uk The school caters for children aged 4 to 11 years of age. There are on average 30 pupils in each class, with two classes in each year group, making fourteen classes in total. Aim of the School Our aim is to deliver our vision using the theme of a ‘River of Learning’. This will be a journey that is interesting and varied and one that prepares children for the next stages and challenges in their lives. It should be a journey of both excellence and enjoyment, personalising and fulfilling the needs of everyone who travels its path. Ultimately we want every child’s learning to flow. Core Values Fundamental to delivering this aim are our sixteen core values which are key to the personal and social development of the whole child. We define core values as the principles that we see as valuable or important in life. The sixteen values are; keeping fit, understanding how you feel, self-esteem, safety, understanding others, enjoying learning, discovering, evaluating, creative thinking, good manners, co-operation, helping others, good body language and communication, risk taking, stickability and organisation. They are in line with ‘Every Child Matters’. This is the Government’s long standing aim for every child, whatever their background or circumstances, to have the support they need to: Be healthy Stay safe Enjoy and achieve Make a positive contribution Achieve economic well-being RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 5 Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus 2013/14 Safeguarding Statement The Governors and staff of Rustington Community Primary School take seriously their responsibility to promote the safeguarding and welfare of all children entrusted to our care. The Designated Child Protection Officer is the Headteacher. As part of our ethos of the school, and with regard to all legal statutes, we are committed to: providing an environment in which children feel safe, secure, valued and respected, confident to talk openly and sure of being listened to providing suitable support and guidance so that children feel confident to approach appropriate adults using the curriculum to provide opportunities for increasing self awareness, self esteem, assertiveness and decision making working with parents to ensure the welfare of all children which may involve other agencies ensuring all staff are able to recognise the signs and symptoms of abuse and are aware of the school’s procedures and lines of communication All appointments, including the vetting of volunteers, are subject to statutory safeguarding procedures. RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 6 Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus 2013/14 Staff Headteacher: Nick White Deputy Headteacher: Sara Watt Assistant Headteacher: Faye Hawkins Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator Lucy Smith TEACHING STAFF: Mark Sonsthagen David Burrows Mark Bylett Jane Colthup Natasha Lawrence Sian Gabbe Faye Hawkins Kathy Hicks Emma Nicholson Richard Penwarden Ruth Perrott Anna Powell Alison Scott Lucy Smith Mel Wilkinson Natasha Wing David Wooller TEACHING ASSISTANTS: Louise Aplin Jo Bacon Wendy Batchelor Sally Brackpool Sophia Chadwick Julia Champion Jason Dagg Alison Dix Debbie Holt Sarah Hornsby Alison Rushman Sally King Lisa Leggett Karen Palzeaird Karen Phelps Jo Rowsell Pippa Smith Erica Webb Damone Whittle Phil Wotton RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 7 Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus 2013/14 ADMINISTRATIVE AND SUPPORT ROLES: School Business Manager: Anita Lamprell Reception/Admissions: Debbie Flint Administration Assistant: Tracey Bailey Administration Assistant: Kerry Berry Premises Officer: Ron Pashley Gardener and Relief Premises: Heather Kittle Welfare Assistant: Maxine Jephson ICT technician: Dave Bacon GOVERNORS: Chair of Governors: Mrs V Race Parent Governors: Mr S Newman Mrs W Frost Mr P McIntosh Mrs R Ward Community Governors: Rev R Connor Mr C Doidge Mrs V Race LEA Governors: Mr J Ceiriog-Hughes Dr J M Walsh Mr S Perry Headteacher: Mr N White Staff Governor: Mrs S Gabbe Mrs J Priest Clerk to Governors: Mrs K Berry The Chair of Governors may be contacted through the school via the Headteacher. RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 8 Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus 2013/14 OUTSIDE AGENCIES CONNECTED WITH THE SCHOOL: School Nurse: Zachary Merton Community Hospital 01903 858143 Police Liaison Officer: WPC Claudine Bishop LOCAL EDUCATION AUTHORITY: West Sussex Local Education Authority provide us with many of our day-to-day services They have a central contact desk for all enquiries on 01243 777100 Admissions Educational Psychology Service Inclusion Support Team Educational Welfare Services Transport Co-ordination Special Educational Needs West Sussex Education Dept website: http://wsgfl.westsussex.gov.uk SCHOOLSWORKS ACADEMY TRUST: Edward Bryant School, London Road, Bognor Regis, West Sussex PO21 1BG Schoolsworks Office Number 01243 904461 http://schoolsworks.org RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 9 Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus 2013/14 Premises The original school was built in 1939. In September 1996 an Early Years base was opened to accommodate our youngest children and the school entrance hall and library were remodelled. In July 2005 a new Key Stage 2 extension was added to accommodate children from 7 to 11 and an ICT suite was established. There is a large assembly hall that also serves as a gymnasium and inside space for games, dance and physical education lessons. There is also a permanent Special Educational Needs base and separate medical room. All classes have internet access and interactive whiteboards. There is also an on-going programme to develop the school grounds and new features to our outdoor learning environment are added regularly. To date work has been completed on the central courtyard area, providing a full safety surface play area for Reception aged children. The hard playground areas have been remarked, all have quiet seating areas and both playgrounds have sheds where play equipment is kept for use at lunchtimes. A bike and scooter storage shelter is available to the rear of the school hall. We see our school very much as an integral part of the local community. We aim to create a happy atmosphere and provide a stimulating learning environment, giving each child the opportunity to develop intellectually, socially, spiritually and physically to the fullest extent appropriate to age, ability and aptitude. Security In the interests of security parents helping in school are asked to sign in at the reception desk and wear a visitor badge. All staff wear identification badges and each class has access to an emergency telephone. Electronic pedestrian and traffic gates operate across the main school driveway. Entry to school from North Lane has been restricted to the following times prior to the start of the school day and at the end of the school day. All other access will be via telephone link from the main gate to the School Reception area. OPEN: CLOSED: 8.40 am 9.10 am 3.00 pm late to allow time for after-school activities NB Back gate access from Old Manor Road is closed at 4.00 pm. RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 10 Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus 2013/14 Map of Rustington Community Primary School Key Stage 2 Hall ICT Suite Main Entrance Early Years Play Area Early Years Key Stage 2 Playground Key Stage 1 Music Studio Key Stage 1 playground RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 11 Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus 2013/14 Procedures Rustington School is a Community Primary School for children aged 4 - 11 years. The school caters for the last year of the Foundation Stage (Reception), Key Stage 1, (5 - 7 years), and Key Stage 2, (7 - 11 years), of the National Curriculum. At the age of 11, children usually transfer to The Littlehampton Academy or The Angmering School whilst some children proceed to other schools. In order to ensure continuity of learning and ease of transition for your child, we maintain regular liaison with these secondary schools. Applying for a school place in West Sussex Admission to Rustington Community Primary School is the responsibility of the Local Education Authority and applications must be made through their offices at: Education Office (South) Pupil Admissions Office Centenary House Durrington Lane Worthing West Sussex BN13 2QB Helen Moules Pupil Admissions Manager South Telephone: Fax: Email: 01903 839141 01903 839214 admissions.south.ed@westsussex.gov.uk Under the Education Act parents can express a preference for any school but parents do not have a right to choose a school. West Sussex Education Authority does however make every effort to meet parental preference where possible. Further information about how places are allocated at this, and other schools in the County, is contained in the Authority’s Information for Parents Booklet a copy of which is available from the school office or the Pupil Admissions Office. Further details relating to admissions can be found on the West Sussex Grid for Learning, http://wsgfl.westsussex.gov.uk. Transport Transport matters for children attending this school are dealt with by the Transport office based in County Hall, Chichester PO19 1RF. They can be contacted on 01243 753535. RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 12 Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus 2013/14 Preliminary visits New children and their parents are most welcome to visit the school by appointment made with Mrs Flint at School Reception. On these occasions you will be given a guided tour of the whole school and the Headteacher will usually be available to answer any questions you may have. Parents of children due to start school, and those who wish to defer their child starting school, are invited to the school for an evening during the Summer term prior to the academic year in which their child is due to begin. During the evening they are welcomed by the Headteacher, and have the opportunity to meet the Reception year staff and discuss starting school and practical issues such as school routines and school uniform. Welcoming the children During the term before they begin in our school, children are invited for preliminary visits. They normally spend two half-days in the classroom with their new teacher and one further visit is arranged for the children to come in for "Story Time" at the end of the afternoon. The Reception year teachers visit the local playgroups and nursery schools from which children will be transferring. We have a successful and long-established policy of conducting home visits but more information about this will be shared on the evening. Notification of absence It is important that a phone call is made to the school during the first morning of absence as the school has to account for, and report on, both authorised and unauthorised absence from school. Late arrivals longer than thirty minutes after registration will be recorded as unauthorised. Once attendance registers have been taken each morning, the school will telephone parents with reference to unexplained absences. Parents requesting a child's absence for reasons other than illness should do so by completing a request form available from School Reception. Parents will note that the school does not condone absence other than for illness and under other exceptional circumstances. Authorised and Unauthorised Absence The percentage of authorised absences for the year 2012/2013 was 4.2%. The percentage of unauthorised absences for the year 2012/2013 was 0.1%. Accidents at school Serious accidents are a rare occurrence at school. Parents must be aware of the following procedures we will adopt in such circumstances and when children complain of feeling unwell. When a child feels unwell or has received a minor injury, they are sent to the medical room. From this point onwards a designated first aider will take charge. First aid will be administered as necessary and a decision made as to whether the child should be sent home. The child will remain in the medical room or reception area until his or her parents arrive. RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 13 Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus 2013/14 In the event of a serious accident parents will be contacted immediately. Should parents be unavailable, the school will telephone the designated emergency contact that parents have stated on their child's admission form. If necessary the school will call an ambulance or take the child to hospital. In such cases a member of staff will always accompany the child and continued attempts will be made to contact parents. Emergency contacts PLEASE NOTE: the emergency contact numbers that parents give to the school are essential. Parents must make every effort to ensure that these are kept up to date. Please inform the School Reception of any changes of address, circumstance, place of work or telephone number. Please ensure that we always have an emergency contact number, (eg. a friend, neighbour or grandparents), in case we are unable to contact you. This is particularly important if you are going to be away for the day. Medicine Children are not permitted to have medicine of any form (including throat sweets) in their possession during the school day. Should a child need to be given prescribed medication during school hours parents are requested to arrange to come into school to administer it. Teaching and non-teaching staff should not be asked to hold or administer medicines. PLEASE NOTE: Children who have been prescribed inhalers or long term medicines may of course have direct access to these as necessary in school. In such cases a care plan will be established with parents or guardians who should make sure that an inhaler or a regular supply of medicine is available at school. The school has a first aid policy which is available on request. Children with particular medical conditions or long-term issues will be subject to a Care Plan which we will agree with parents. School Health Service Children's physical and emotional growth is carefully monitored through medical and dental examinations, hearing and vision tests and health interviews. Parents are kept fully informed as to these checks. From time to time headlice can become a problem. Please do not be alarmed if this should occur. Inform the School Reception immediately, and should you need it, ask for a copy of the Department of Health publication "The Prevention and Treatment of Headlice". Insurance Parents should note that school pupils are not covered by insurance for personal accident. Lost property All items of personal property brought into school MUST be clearly labelled with your child's name. Watches may be worn to school, but must be marked or engraved with the child's name. ALL items of clothing and footwear must be clearly labelled. Labels to be sewn into RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 14 Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus 2013/14 clothing can be ordered from the school uniform suppliers, Ricara of Littlehampton or Felix Dance and Leisurewear (leaflets enclosed with prospectus). Whilst we will make every effort to safeguard pupils' property and will do our very best to trace lost items, we are unable to accept responsibility for loss or damage. Incidents of lost property should, in the first instance, be reported to the class teacher. After a reasonable period of time, and after lost property viewing sessions have been arranged for the children, unclaimed possessions will be disposed of. Jewellery For reasons of health and safety, NO JEWELLERY should be worn in school. The only earrings permissible are studs for pierced ears, but these may not be worn during games, swimming or physical education lessons. It would be preferable if your child did not wear his or her earrings on the day they are scheduled to have these lessons, however if a child cannot remove earrings he or she should keep a supply of suitable tape at school (in his or her PE bag) to cover them with during physical activities. Money in school Children should not have money in school unless a voluntary contribution has been requested by us for a specific purpose, such as an educational visit or charitable collection. Payments to the school for educational visits can be made electronically using Parentmail +Pay which is a secure, easy and less time consuming way of managing your contributions. It is our preferred payment method and Parentmail is also used as our communication tool for correspondence to parents by email and text. Should you choose to pay for educational visits with cash or a cheque, it must be placed in a named, sealed envelope and handed to the class teacher when requested during registration time. Cheques should be made payable to Rustington Community Primary School. RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 15 Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus 2013/14 Mobile Phones Mobile phones are not permitted in school. If parents request that their child brings a mobile phone with them, the phone will be collected by the class teacher and returned to the child at the end of the school day. Public access to documents This prospectus has been compiled in strict adherence to guidelines in compliance with the Education Reform Act 1988 and circular 0269/2002 published by the DfE. It is available for public scrutiny at the school. Other documents held at the school to which the public have right of access include: The National Curriculum All statutory instruments, circulars and administrative memoranda that have been sent to the school by the DfE Annual reports of the Governing Body Minutes of the Governor's Meetings, (once these have been approved) The school's policy on charging for school activities Complaints procedure (see page 31) Governor's policy on Sex Education (see page 32) The West Sussex agreed syllabus for Religious Education Parking Parents are asked to be extremely careful when parking outside the school premises at the end and beginning of each school day. Parents are asked not to enter the school premises in vehicles and to park well away from the restricted zones in North Lane. Particular care should be taken in Old Manor Road to park well away from the crossing patrol area. Whenever possible please walk your children to and from school. Breaktime snacks The school has adopted a policy on healthy eating and allows only fruit for morning and afternoon breaks. Since September 2004 the government has been providing free fruit/vegetables and milk for KS1 children. School meals As part of the West Sussex schools meals contract we provide hot school lunches at a cost and meals can be booked via www.mealselector.co.uk. The children may also bring their own packed lunch in a clearly name-labelled lunchbox. (No fizzy drinks, glass bottles or cans please.) We also ask you to consult your child’s class teacher before providing any nuts or nut products (such as peanut butter) as we have some children at school with a nut allergy. This can cause Anaphylactic Shock which is a life threatening condition – we appreciate your shared concern for these children’s needs. RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 16 Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus 2013/14 School Milk Free school milk is available to under fives. Other children may join the scheme but there is a payment of approximately £3 - £5 per half term. Order forms are available from Reception. Uniform The school has had its own distinctive uniform for many years. We strongly encourage this as we feel that it develops a sense of belonging and pride in the school. Our uniform is designed to be comfortable and practical for primary school life. Please note that appropriate and comfortable black footwear is an essential part of our school uniform. Sensible ‘uniform-style’ shoes are preferred, but plain black trainers are acceptable. It is not permitted to wear any form of high heels, platforms, or boots. Likewise summer sandals with open toes are not suitable. Essential items of uniform are: Royal Blue sweatshirt, V-neck or cardigan (available with school logo) White shirt, blouse or polo shirt (available with school logo) Grey trousers, shorts, skirts, skorts or grey pinafore Summer dresses may be royal blue striped or checked Grey, black or white socks or grey tights Optional royal blue outer fleece with school logo PE Kit: White t-shirt with school logo Royal blue shorts Black plimsolls or trainers Please supply suitable sweatshirt and tracksuit/joggers for winter months Drawstring bag All items are available from either Ricara or Felix Dance and Leisurewear: Ricara of 3 Arundel Road, Littlehampton, West Sussex Telephone 01903 723843 or Felix Dance and Leisurewear, of 37 Beach Road, Littlehampton, West Sussex Telephone 01903 721375. RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 17 Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus 2013/14 The school at work The school day Key Stage 1 (Years R - 2): Key Stage 2 (Years 3 - 6): 9.00 am to 12.00 noon 8.50 am to 12.00 noon Morning break: Lunch break: Afternoon break: 10.30 am to 10.45 am 12.00 noon to 1.00 pm 2.00 pm to 2.15 pm and and 1.00 pm to 3.15 pm 1.00 pm to 3.20 pm Hours spent on teaching (not including break, registration and assemblies): Key Stage 1: Key Stage 2: 22 hours 30 minutes per week 23 hours 45 minutes per week Please ensure that KS1 children do not arrive at school before 8.50 am, and KS2 children no earlier than 8.40 am. We recommend that children be met from school promptly at the end of the school day. Parents are asked to wait in the playground areas for their children to come out of school. Staff will accompany children to the playgrounds at the end of the day for dismissal, when they have identified the parent or person who is collecting each child. Due to the small size of the infant playground, parents are asked to wait well back from the school buildings so that children leaving the building can be clearly seen. If for any reason parents are late, the children are asked to report to the school office and wait in the reception area for collection. On arrival parents are asked to report to the office staff before taking their child home. Parents waiting with pre-school or Key Stage 1 children at the end of the school day are asked, for reasons of security and safety, to supervise their children at all times and ensure that they are kept away from classroom and hall doors and windows where lessons for Key Stage 2 pupils will be going on. If you have an important message for the teacher that must be delivered in the morning, please take it to the School Reception. Teachers are, however, very happy to speak to you after school. School terms and holiday dates are published regularly in the newsletter along with INSET days and are also available on the school website: http://www.rustington.w-sussex.sch.uk. These dates are provided well in advance, so please check carefully the year to which they refer. RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 18 Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus 2013/14 Pastoral Care School Behaviour We aim to promote self-discipline in our children. The key is to foster a spirit of co-operation, fairness and consideration in dealing with one another, whether between pupils, adults and children, and between the adults themselves. We rely on parents to teach their children respect for authority and to have self-discipline from the earliest age. Parents are always consulted when a child's behaviour becomes cause for real concern in school. More severe misdemeanours are recorded in a red file with appropriate follow up procedures. Qualities of honesty, kindness and fair dealing are constantly encouraged, whilst politeness and thoughtfulness towards others and the school environment, are regarded as fundamental to the ethos of the school. School rules are kept to a minimum and are conveyed verbally to the children by the class teachers and by the Headteacher and staff, especially in assemblies. The 5 School Rules: 1 2 3 4 5 Do as you are asked first time Do not talk out of turn Keep hands, feet and objects to yourself Always do your best and let others do theirs Always speak kindly and truthfully Rewards such as positive verbal and written statements, recognition by the Headteacher, positive comments (written or verbal) to parents and a mention in assemblies, are all encouraged whenever possible. The "River of Learning Book" is a record of outstanding pupil achievement or improvement within the school, and pupils are recognised in an assembly. We believe that discipline should be fair. We have high expectations of the children in our care and we believe that our school rules are simple, easily understood and meaningful to all. Children are expected to exercise self-discipline and to observe the five rules at all times. Parents are always consulted when a child's behaviour becomes a concern. To prevent inappropriate behaviour, we will express our disappointment and displeasure and remind pupils concerned of the expected correct behaviour within the context of the five rules. If misbehaviour is persistent we will use sanctions where appropriate. If a child's behaviour is deemed severe, exclusion procedures will be considered. RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 19 Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus 2013/14 Bullying Bullying will not be tolerated. Our major aim is to prevent incidents of bullying by ensuring that, from their very first day at school, our children understand that bad behaviour will not be condoned, accepted or ignored. Bullying is violence (physical, verbal or psychological) conducted by an individual or a group and directed against the individual who is not able to defend him or herself in the actual situation. It can be long standing or of a shorter duration. Bullying and harassment are not quite the same thing, though harassment is often part of bullying. Harassment is less personal and usually refers to a general issue. Bullying is individualised. The long-term effects of persistent bullying can make youngsters feel isolated and wonder what is wrong with them. They begin to feel they may deserve teasing and harassment, so they become withdrawn and less willing to take part in school life. Preventing bullying The whole of the school staff is involved and we all consider it our responsibility to prevent and stop bullying wherever it occurs. To this end we work closely together monitoring, caring and passing on relevant information to the class teacher, Deputy Headteacher and Headteacher as appropriate. We keep parents informed when their child is involved in bullying and information is logged at the discretion of staff. Issues relating to bullying are included in the school curriculum and are reinforced during assemblies and through the broader curriculum. Children learn what bullying behaviour is and the consequences and unhappiness that can emanate from bullying, especially for the victim. Children are encouraged to consider what they feel should be done about bullying. We invite parents to come into school and talk about any problems they are having with their child. This may be because their child is a victim or a bully. We hope that by parents and teachers talking together we can find the best way to improve and change the situation for the children in our care. Providing support All staff are vigilant and proactive when supporting pupils, both academically and pastorally. We have a Children and Families Support worker, provided by a local charitable trust, who is available to work with individuals and groups who may be experiencing emotional difficulties, whether at home or school. We also encourage children to take responsibility for their own actions. Using the ‘Peaceworks Peer Mediation’ model, we have a number of trained peer mediators chosen from within KS2 who are available during break times. Their main duty is to help support other children in sorting out their difficulties and helping to de-escalate those common, everyday arguments. RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 20 Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus 2013/14 The Curriculum We endeavour to provide an enjoyable, enriched educational experience that is both meaningful and relevant to every child and to develop personal qualities that provide a sound foundation for the future. All those concerned with the school share these beliefs. We nourish educational growth by helping children to learn about and understand themselves and their unique relationship with others and the world around them. To help children understand their world through key experiences which are first hand, stimulating and relevant. Helping their feelings and sensitivity to grow with the development of their minds and bodies. To foster the social and personal development of each child by providing an environment in which the children learn to live co-operatively and agreeably with others. We encourage each child to become a lifelong independent learner and to leave our school with the same enthusiasm and curiosity with which he or she came. Each day the children take part in learning in literacy and numeracy in accordance with the National Curriculum. Science, RE, music, ICT and PE may be taught as separate subjects but increasingly aspects of these subjects are included as part of a wider cross-curricular learning journey. The term "learning journey" refers to an interdisciplinary approach to learning which encompasses design technology, history, geography, art, environmental studies, dance, drama, personal and social education as well as the cross-curricular aspects of English and mathematics. Each learning journey has a specific subject bias. Our aim is to create a balanced curriculum across each Key Stage. Our curriculum is carefully planned to enable the children to meet the requirements of the National Curriculum. A long-term plan for each Key Stage is established. Detailed mediumterm plans ensure the appropriate balance of subjects within each topic and short-term planning, on a weekly basis, ensures appropriate delivery of the curriculum through a variety of teaching and learning. Classes are of mixed ability. Children's work is differentiated according to their individual or group needs. On occasions they will be taught in ability groups and wholeclass teaching occurs particularly to introduce new topics and for a substantial part of maths, English and science lessons. RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 21 Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus 2013/14 The Learning Environment Much care and attention is being given to the development of a stimulating learning environment, both within the school building and its grounds. Children's work is handled sensitively: expectations with regard to display and presentation are high. Our school ethos is founded upon children's learning whenever possible through first-hand experience. To those ends the learning environment is enriched with a range of artefacts and objects that support cross-curricular topics. The children are proud of their school and their achievements. They are encouraged to care for the environment and share the range of facilities available to them. Presentation of work Our school handwriting style is cursive. Good joined handwriting and careful presentation of work are seen as priorities before the children leave us. The children transfer from pencil to handwriting pen when the time is right. The use of biro and blue ink, as well as felt-tip pens is not permitted. Our aim is for children to write quickly, fluently, efficiently and legibly even at speed. Much of their written work will be marked at the drafting stage. RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 22 Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus 2013/14 The Foundation Stage – Early Years The foundation stage is the period of education from 3 to 5. The last year of the foundation stage is often called the reception year as many children join a School Reception class during that time. It is called the foundation stage because it gives children secure foundations for later learning. We are fortunate to have a purpose-built Early Years base that is fully equipped for the needs of our younger children and a wealth of staff expertise. Play is also regarded to be a vital part of the children's development and thus we promote "play" situations wherever possible to enhance the learning process and enjoyment of the school. Early experiences affect children’s attitudes to learning as they create a basis for later learning, in school and beyond. The school is fortunate to have a safe, secure and dedicated outdoor learning environment for Foundation Stage children. It is fully fitted with a rubber safety surface, all-weather grass and heavy duty play installations. It is an absolute delight to see children selecting various toys, tools and other equipment to explore and learn about themselves and their world. RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 23 Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus 2013/14 The Core Subjects Mathematics Much of our work in maths is based in practical activities and discussion, especially during the early years. As the children progress through the school and their knowledge and understanding deepens, so the formal recording of their mathematics experience becomes increasingly important. The children work on a scheme based on the National Numeracy Strategy providing a sound basis for maths work throughout the school. We also have ‘Oasis weeks’ each term when children are encouraged to use their mathematical skills in meaningful ways in practical and real situations, carrying out investigations and solving problems. English Literacy strategies are taught according to National Literacy Strategy. English continues to be taught throughout the curriculum. It is the principle means by which we think, define experience, feel and interpret the world in which we live. We encourage the children to enjoy reading and appreciate literature in its various forms. We enable them to use both spoken and written language in a range of contexts for a variety of audiences and purposes. Whenever possible the children are encouraged to use language to make sense of their learning experiences and to communicate appropriately, effectively and accurately in both the spoken and written word. Reading Reading in the early years is taught using the phonetically based graded reading books and the use of real books in association with the National Literacy Strategy. The children are encouraged to learn words at home and, when ready, will bring reading books home for practice. So that they may understand that there is a wide range of reading material, they are also encouraged to bring home books of their choice to share with their families. Parents are fully encouraged to communicate with teachers via a reading card system as to reading progress at home. As the children's reading ability improves, so they are exposed to a wide range of graded reading books and eventually the wealth of books available in the main school library and classroom reading corners. Children are able to borrow books from the school library. Staff acquire extra books to support each cross-curricular project from the County Library Service. Writing In accordance with the National Literacy Strategy we aim to provide good quality and wide ranging writing experiences, helping the children to develop an appreciation and understanding of their sense and to seek opportunities to extend the range and depth of their writing for a variety of audiences and purposes. Writing is currently a major focus across the school. Basic writing skills are taught using a wide range of support materials and based on the National Literacy Strategy. Handwriting is taught formally. RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 24 Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus 2013/14 Science Being a subject of the National Curriculum, science is generally taught as a discrete subject. Through science activities we encourage the children to observe, investigate, seek evidence, interpret information, draw conclusions and apply their findings to new problems. By the time they leave us we hope that, like scientists, each child will have developed an open, critical and enquiring mind. Work in the local area, the development of our school grounds, and the development and study of our conservation areas form an integral part of the children's day to day work. Other National Curriculum Subjects Information and Communications Technology The school constantly updates and improves its Information and Communication Technology resources. In addition to the existing multi-media computer to be found in every classroom, the multimedia ICT suite has a total of thirty workstations, all connected to the Internet via a broadband link. In this way whole class sessions can be taught and then supported back in the classroom. There is a fully approved Internet access filter in place, to ensure the security of children on-line. Humanities (History and Geography) We are concerned mainly with the historical and geographical element of humanities, helping the children to understand human activities particularly at a local level and extending to national and international issues as the children mature. We fully encourage educational visits to support geographical and historical topic work. To those ends we use the local rich resources of the South coast and museums in London. Children in year 5 carry out local studies whilst on residential fieldwork based at Dalesdown near Horsham. Children in year 6 carry out comparative studies whilst on residential fieldwork based in Hampshire. Each topic has a 'lead' subject. Religious Education The teaching of religious education is child centred and based around discussion. It is taught as a separate subject but is also likely to form a part of a topic theme. We consider such issues as sharing, working together, caring for one another and thoughtfulness as being important elements of religious education. We aim to develop an understanding of Christianity, its relevance to the present day and its cultural heritage. We also place importance on the understanding of other faiths and the culture and way of life of other people. RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 25 Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus 2013/14 Assemblies There are daily assemblies that often include prayers and thoughts for the day. Some assemblies pursue topical or seasonal issues; others are led by the children as a means of sharing and celebrating their work. The school has very close links with local church groups, who regularly contribute to assemblies. An RE syllabus has been developed by the Standing Advisory Council for Religious Education in West Sussex and a copy of this is available on request at school. Parents are reminded of their right to withdraw their children from Religious Education and assembly. They may do so by written application to the Headteacher. These pupils would spend assembly times in the care of teaching assistants, continuing with their general curriculum work in the school library. Personal, Social, Citizenship and Health Education Parents will appreciate the close connection between RE, self-awareness and the understanding of our world. We aim to enable children to look at issues that concern them, such as bullying, peer group pressure, friendships and personal awareness. The school aims to promote equal opportunities in both education and employment and we are opposed to discrimination on any grounds, including sex, age, disability, colour or culture. We believe this is achieved by making our school a welcoming place for its members and visitors. We aim to encourage a growth of confidence and trust. One way in which we do this is through class discussion and sharing assemblies. The school also has a School Council of children elected by their peer group which meets to discuss issues in and around the school and playground. Art Art is considered to be a vital part of our curriculum, including drawing, painting, print-making, fabric work and clay work. The children's artwork will be related to their current topic theme. New skills in art will be introduced as the need arises. The children are encouraged to work from close observation as well as from their imagination. Artwork is used to enhance the presentation of children's work. Policies are in place for routines such as preparing for painting, printing or clay work. Care is taken to teach the children to use tools and materials appropriately. Design and Technology This learning is often cross-curricular. It has very close links with art, home economics, mathematics and science. Design and Technology enables the children to be inventive in designing practical solutions to problems and so bring about change and improvement to existing situations. The design process forms an essential part of much of our work. Whenever possible the children are involved in designing things for real. Music During their time at Rustington school the children will have the opportunity to compose music, listen to music and perform music in a variety of ways. The children sing both modern and traditional songs and there is a range of percussion instruments available. RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 26 Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus 2013/14 Peripatetic lessons in violin, guitar, clarinet, flute, drums, keyboard and trumpet are available at a small cost to parents via the County Music Support Service. Children joining these lessons have the opportunity to play in school assemblies and, on occasions, support school productions. These lessons are currently available to children in years 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6. Further details are available from the School Reception. Physical Education Our aim in physical education is to teach physical control and expression in movement as well as various games skills. Team games are played throughout the school with the emphasis on working together. More formal games of football, netball, cricket, rounders, etc are introduced to the older children with an emphasis on skills acquisition. For children in Key Stage 2, a formal games lesson is timetabled for one hour each week. Arrangements for our younger children are more flexible. Physical education lessons in the gymnasium are timetabled separately. Children in years 2, 3 and 4 have the opportunity to swim at the Littlehampton Swimming Centre for which parents are asked to make a voluntary contribution. Children in years 5 and 6 have the opportunity to fulfil outdoor pursuits such as orienteering during their residential visits, (conditions permitting). Annual sports days are organised to reflect the range of physical and developing skills that the children have been learning. The school takes great pride in its sporting achievements, particularly in the traditional games of football and netball. Netball and football fixtures with other schools are arranged outside school hours and teams are entered into a number of local tournaments. The school has a large playground marked out with two netball pitches and training grids, and a small field that accommodates a football pitch. The school offers sports clubs to specific year groups in cricket, football, basketball, netball, athletics, dance, karate, gymnastics and tennis. A fee is normally charged for those clubs which are run by a coach independent of the school. Details can be found on the school’s website. Drama We teach drama to enhance interpersonal skills - the ability to accept and share ideas to solve problems and to work and communicate with others. This occurs largely through role-play situations that also help children to understand life in the adult world and such things as historical events. Modern Foreign Language (MFL) We teach Spanish to all year groups, encompassing simple words and phrases, knowledge of culture, food and traditions, and an appreciation of the sound of Spanish. We prepare our pupils for language learning at secondary school by being confident to ‘have a go’ and by being open to learning new speech sounds. RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 27 Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus 2013/14 Extra curricular activities We offer a wide range of clubs both within and outside normal school hours. Club activities vary seasonally and with staff expertise and availability. In addition to the sports clubs listed above, a typical offer of clubs can range from computing, art and sketching, cookery and gardening, to dance, choir and knitting. Full details are listed on the school’s website. Children in all years regularly participate in a range of enrichment activities on a Friday afternoon. Home Learning Commitment, Consistency and Communication are the key factors for successful home learning tasks. Therefore the following should be taken into account when giving children learning tasks to complete at home. Teachers are responsible for ensuring that they adhere to these guidelines. Commitment Teachers will be committed to the giving of home learning tasks. Teachers will be committed to responding to learning completed at home and will ensure that it is looked at as soon as possible. When appropriate it will be marked and returned as soon as practicable. Teachers should try to ensure that home learning tasks enable children to enjoy their learning at home. Parents and carers should be active in helping, and supporting, their children in completing home learning tasks. Consistency The vast majority of tasks must support and extend the learning taking place in the classroom. Teachers will ensure that home learning tasks are given and completed on a regular basis in line with the suggested guidelines for a year group. Teachers will ensure that there is consistency in home learning tasks across both classes in a year group. Communication Homework should be part of a partnership between home and school. Therefore it is vital that teachers communicate with parents about the tasks that are being given. Teachers should ensure that children understand the tasks and that parents/carer who require it receive support to enable them to help their children. Parents should support the partnership by communicating effectively with the teacher about how children cope with and respond to tasks. Whilst home learning tasks are not compulsory children should be encouraged and motivated to complete them. Parent and carer views should also be taken into consideration. RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 28 Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus 2013/14 Children and Parents/Carers should be able to make and see the links with the learning taking place in the classroom. Home Learning (Guidelines for Year Groups) Year R Share books daily with your child Spend a few minutes every day playing with Lotto words, practising phonics skills or sharing the books they bring home Extend the time spent during the year according to your child’s interest (Time guide: ten minutes daily reading and ten minutes on other activities) Year 1 Read every day Read and look at Jolly Phonics phonemes One other core subject related home learning task per week or fortnight Read and spell high frequency words, including spelling (Time guide: ten minutes daily reading and fifteen minutes on other activities) Year 2 Read every day Read and learn lottos and spellings Number bonds and times table practice A weekly task related to our Learning Journey, maths or English (Time guide: fifteen minutes daily reading and twenty minutes on other activities) Year 3 Read every day Times table practice Read and learn lottos and spellings A weekly task related to our Learning Journey, maths or English (Time guide: fifteen minutes daily reading and thirty minutes on other activities) Year 4 Read every day Weekly spelling practice Times table practice A weekly task related to our Learning Journey, maths or English (Time guide: twenty minutes daily reading and forty minutes on other activities) Year 5 Record tasks in Home Learning Book Read every day Learn spellings Times table practice A weekly task related to our Learning Journey, maths or English (Time guide: twenty minutes daily reading and up to 45 minutes on other activities) RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 29 Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus 2013/14 Year 6 Use a home learning diary independently Read every day from an increasing range of materials Independent and regular times table and spelling practice A weekly task related to our Learning Journey, maths or English (Time guide: twenty minutes daily reading and up to an hour on other activities) Assessment, Recording, Reporting and Monitoring of Progress Staff monitor the progress of individual children very carefully. Soon after the children start school, baseline assessment procedures are undertaken so that we can identify individual needs with regard to social and basic academic ability. The children have National Curriculum tests at the end of year 6 (Key Stage 2). (Information about the school's performance is included in the Appendix to this document.) Optional National Curriculum tests are available for years 2, 3, 4 and 5. These are currently used for internal assessment only. Each child's progress in literacy and numeracy is tested on a regular basis. A summary word-processed report on each child's progress is sent home during the Summer term of each academic year. Parents are invited to meet their child's new class teacher during an open evening early in the academic year, to discuss plans for the year ahead and ways in which they may support the class. A parents evening with appointments is held in the spring term and a themed open evening is held in the summer term. Parents are also most welcome to arrange to see teachers or the Headteacher at any other time during the school year. Children with Special Educational Needs The school works closely with the support services of the Local Education Authority. Should any child have particular educational needs, the appropriate assessment as to necessary support in school is made with the full consultation of parents. The school employs a special educational needs coordinator (SENCo) who offers both classroom support and work on a oneto-one or with small groups of children in a well-equipped special needs base. The SENCo also offers advice to colleagues regarding Special Educational Needs issues and co-ordinates the preparation of Individual Education Plans. Gifted and Talented Pupils The school operates a Gifted and Talented Pupils Policy that supports both the identification of children with exceptional ability in all areas of the curriculum and offers an enrichment programme via the Local Educational Authority and through our locality of schools. Pre-school liaison We have close links with the large number of pre-school playgroups and nursery schools from which children transfer to our Foundation classes. RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 30 Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus 2013/14 Parents in School We regard our school very much as part of the local community and firmly believe in forging a strong partnership between home and school. Parents and grandparents are warmly invited to work with us in school on a voluntary basis. Anyone wishing to do so should liaise either with their child's class teacher or the Headteacher. We also like to share parents' expertise and interests, particularly where these coincide with aspects of the children's topic work. There is an established tradition of parents helping teachers in the classroom and accompanying children on visits and journeys. Any person who comes in to help on a regular basis is required to undergo our vetting procedure. Details can be obtained from Reception. Parents who transport children are required to provide the school with a copy of their current driving licence and insurance documents as well as providing evidence of a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Parents can join in and help the school by: Helping in the classroom Sharing expertise or skills Helping to organise extra-curricular activities Becoming a parent governor With your active support we can continue to develop and improve the standard of your child's education. Complaints A summary of our procedure for the consideration of complaints is set out below. The majority of complaints will be dealt with informally by discussions with the class teacher or Headteacher and will be settled amicably. In those few cases where the complainant is not satisfied with the response at the informal stage, there will be formal procedures to ensure that, in the case of complaints against a school, the matter is passed for consideration by the governing body. If the complaint remains unresolved, the arrangements provide the referral of most complaints to a small panel of members of the Schoolsworks Academy Trust board of directors. For complaints about Religious Education or collective worship, the procedures at the final stage are different and the referral of the complaint will be to a panel of members of the Standing Advisory Council for Religious Education or to the appropriate Church authority. If, after both the formal stages with the governing body and the Schoolsworks Academy Trust itself, the matter has not been settled to the complainant's satisfaction, the complaint may be referred to the Secretary of State for Education. RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 31 Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus 2013/14 Governors' Policies Charges and Remissions A copy of the Governors' policy statement on Charging for School Activities is available in the school office. The following extract covers the main points: No charge will be made in cases where an activity is provided specifically to fulfil statutory duties imposed by the 1988 Education Act … parents will be asked to supply or pay for ingredients and materials in cases where they have agreed in advance that they wish to own the finished product … remissions are a matter for the school governors in consultation with the Headteacher and the staff involved … Charges cannot be made for activities … but parents will be invited in writing to make voluntary contributions. Sex and Relationship Education Policy Sex and relationship education should contribute to lifelong learning in promoting the spiritual, moral, cultural, mental and physical development of pupils at the school, and of society, and preparing pupils for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of adult life. It is about understanding the importance of family life, stable and loving relationships, respect, love and care. The Governors, following consultation with parents, have agreed that formal lessons with regard to conception and birth should not form part of the secular curriculum of the school. However, in order that teaching and learning fulfils the requirements of the National Curriculum, the following aims with regard to sex education will be fulfilled: To promote self-awareness and an understanding in the children of their own bodies. For the children to develop a respect for their own and other people’s bodies. To advise children and to help cope with the physical and emotional challenges of growing up. To enable children to understand in simple terms the main stages of the human life cycle For the children to develop an understanding of the needs of young creatures including human babies. In their transition year, the school nurse will work with Year 6 children. Girls and boys will be taught separately and together, with regard to puberty and personal hygiene. Staff will always deal with this area of the curriculum with sensitivity according to the child’s age and maturity. Information will be given in such a manner as to encourage the regard for moral consideration and the value of family life. RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 32 Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus 2013/14 The Governors also wish to emphasise the importance of parental involvement by working in partnership to: Encourage parents to take responsibility for helping their children cope with the emotional and physical aspects of growing up Support parents in accepting and delivering that responsibility We will do this by: Informing parents of aspects to be covered in the Year 6 talks. Inviting parents to view the video beforehand. Parents and guardians of Year 6 children will receive a letter before the video is shown. Parents should be encouraged to answer questions that arise from the talks and be aware that conception and birth are not covered by the school but that they may arise in subsequent questions asked by the children. RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 33 Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus 2013/14 Term Dates and Holidays - 2013/2014 AUTUMN TERM 2013 Tuesday 3 September - Friday 20 December HALF TERM: Monday 28 October - Friday 1 November SPRING TERM 2014 Monday 6 January – Friday 4 April HALF TERM: Monday 17 February – Friday 21 February Bank Holiday: 21 April SUMMER TERM 2013 Tuesday 22 April - Wednesday 23 July HALF TERM: Monday 26 May - Friday 30 May Bank Holiday: 5 May INSET Staff Training Days will be Tuesday 3rd September 2013, Monday 30th September 2013 and Monday 24th February 2014 plus two more days to be confirmed at a later date via the school calendar RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 34 Rustington Community Primary School Prospectus 2013/14 Rustington Community Primary School North Lane Rustington West Sussex BN16 3PW Tel: 01903 785271 Fax: 01903 850743 E-mail: office@rustington.w-sussex.sch.uk Website: www.rustington.w-sussex.sch.uk RCPS Information for Parents September 2013 35