Hollybush
Primary & Nursery School
School Prospectus
Dear Parents
I commend to you the Prospectus for Hollybush Primary School and Nursery Unit.
The school is situated in the Culmore area of Derry City and enjoys a beautiful setting close
to the River Foyle.
We pride ourselves in providing a safe, happy, well resourced environment with committed
staff who will encourage your child, through their curricular and extra-curricular experiences
to achieve their full potential in all aspects of life.
As a Catholic school we develop and foster Christian values which instil in children respect
for self and others and embraces those of different religious persuasion.
Parental, Parish and Community partnerships are an essential element of the work of the
school and the success of our children depends on co-operation and mutual respect
between parents, staff, the parish and wider community.
This prospectus is intended to give you some information about the life and work of the
school and what Hollybush can offer you and your child. However, no prospectus can
capture the true atmosphere and relationships within a school therefore I warmly invite you
to visit the school on Open Days and/or Induction Meetings. You may also arrange a private
visit to the school when I will be pleased to meet you and provide you with an opportunity to
experience our beautiful school and meet our outstanding pupils.
Sincere good wishes for the future.
MRS CARMEL DUNN
Principal
ETI INSPECTION (November 2013)
Overall Performance Level
-
Outstanding
Achievements and Standards
-
Outstanding
Provision-Outstanding
Leadership and Management
-
Outstanding
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Hollybush Primary & Nursery School Prospectus 2014
Mission Statement
We aim to develop in our pupils a love of
learning, a respect for all and a desire to
realise their full potential.
We achieve this within a Catholic centered
inclusive and safe environment through a
combination of traditional and innovative
teaching and learning methods.
Hollybush Primary & Nursery School Prospectus 2014 3
Aims of the School
•
To create a safe, caring, happy, respectful environment where pupils and staff work
together for the good of all.
•
•
To develop a sense of respect for self and others.
•
To develop a respect for religious and moral values with tolerance and inclusion of
other races, religions and ways of life.
•
To encourage the pupils to develop the capacity to live as independent, self-motivated
individuals with the capabilities to function as contributing members of co-operative
groups.
•
To help pupils develop lively, enquiring minds with the ability to question and argue
rationally and to apply themselves to tasks.
•
To develop physical skills and attributes in all pupils whilst raising awareness of the
requirements needed to lead healthy, active, purposeful lives.
•
To provide a broad and balanced curriculum which addresses the needs of each
individual and allows them to develop their full potential academically, spiritually, moral,
physically and creatively.
•
•
To promote in pupils, staff and parents a love of learning.
•
To develop a healthy, respectful relationship between home and school so that parents
will feel welcome to become involved in the life of the school where this is appropriate.
•
•
To help pupils prepare for adult life at home, work and at leisure.
4
To foster the Catholic faith and to instil the Christian values of love, kindness, peace,
sharing, forgiveness, tolerance, truthfulness and honesty.
To help pupils understand the need to respect and care for the world they live in whilst
developing an awareness of the interdependence of individuals, groups and nations.
To allow the voice of the child to be heard.
Hollybush Primary & Nursery School Prospectus 2014
Hollybush Primary & Nursery School
Telephone: 028 7135 2202
10 Ardan RoadFax:028 7135 9927
CulmoreEmail:Info@Hollybush.derry.ni.sch.uk
Derry
BT48 8JNMaintained: Co-Education
Age Range4 – 11
Chairman Of Governors
Mr John Kelpie
PrincipalMrs Carmel Dunn
1st September 2013
Primary 381
Nursery 52
Enrolment Number 395 (Excluding Nursery) Admissions Number 57
Teaching Staff
Principal
Mrs C Dunn
Vice Principal
Mr F Friel
P7TEACHER
P7TEACHER
P7TEACHER
P6TEACHER
P6TEACHER
P5TEACHER
P5TEACHER
P4TEACHER
P4TEACHER
P3TEACHER
P3TEACHER
P2TEACHER
P2TEACHER
P1TEACHER
P1TEACHER
MR F MALLON
MR M MCNULTY
MR C O’CONNOR
MRS L MATTHEWS
MISS C GRANT
MR P MCGARRIGLE
MRS Y BRADLEY
MRS S MCGURREN
MRS G HOUSTON
MISS B MCCUSKER
MRS M FARREN
MRS D WHITE
MRS W O’DONNELL
MRS R KEAVENEY
MRS M HARKIN
Nursery Teacher
Mrs M Grace
Hollybush Primary & Nursery School Prospectus 2014 5
School SecretariesMrs M Davey
Mrs B Moore
Classroom AssistantsMrs S Flood
Mrs B Maguire
Mrs E Parke
Mrs C Baird
Mrs C Smith
Mrs P Murray
Nursery AssistantsMrs R Thompson
Miss C Doherty
CookMrs M Doherty
Canteen StaffMrs M Gillespie
Mrs K Fallon
Mrs M J Parke
Mrs S McKinney
Supervisory Assistants
Mrs E McLaughlin
Mrs R Bonner
Mrs S Robb
Mrs C Doherty
Building SupervisorMr A McDermott
Cleaning StaffMrs E McLaughlin
Mrs B Barr
Mrs G McDaid
School Crossing Patrol
6
Mr C Maguire
Hollybush Primary & Nursery School Prospectus 2014
The Board of Governors
Nominated by the Trustees Fr Column Clerkin PP VF
Mr John Kelpie (Chairman)
Miss Ursula Doherty
Mrs Mary Doherty
Nominated by the Western Education & Library Board
Mr Paul Kirby
Mrs Angela Dobbins
Nominated by the Department of Education
Mr Kevin McCauley
Elected by the Parents
Mr Liam Maguire
Elected by the Teaching Staff
Miss Briege McCusker
Principal (Non-Voting)
Mrs Carmel Dunn
“The parents, staff and school community can have a high degree of confidence in the
aspects of governance inspected”.
ETI Inspection (November 2013)
Hollybush Primary & Nursery School Prospectus 2014 7
School Hours
Class time begins at 9.00 am for all pupils. A supervised breakfast club operates from 8.30
am till 8.55 am. This club is available to all the pupils in the Primary School.
Nursery
Morning Session:
Afternoon Session:
9.00 am – 11.30 am
12.30 pm – 3.00 pm
Primary 1/2
Morning Session:
Lunch:
Afternoon Session:
9.00 am – 12.00 noon
12.00 noon – 12.45 pm
12.45pm – 2.30 pm
Primary 3/4
Morning Session:
Lunch:
Afternoon Session:
9.00 am – 12.15 pm
12.15 pm – 1.00 pm
1.00pm – 3.00 pm
Primary 5
Morning Session:
Lunch:
Afternoon Session:
9.00 am – 12.30 pm
12.30 pm – 1.15 pm
1.15pm – 3.00 pm
Primary 6/7
Morning Session:
Lunch:
Afternoon Session:
9.00 am – 12.35 pm
12.40 pm – 1.25 pm
1.25pm – 3.00 pm
Pupils have a 15 minutes supervised morning break, 10.30 am – 10.45 am
Lunch Time
Children may:
•
•
Have a canteen dinner (payable daily)
Bring a packed lunch into the dining hall.
A healthy eating policy operates within the school and applies to
morning break, lunch boxes and canteen dinners. If your child has
allergies please inform the Office and the Class Teacher.
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Hollybush Primary & Nursery School Prospectus 2014
Pupil Absences
Pupil attendance is recorded on a computerised system. The system enables us to keep
more detailed information regarding each child’s pattern of attendance. Registration begins
shortly after 9.00 am.
The system allows staff to record if a child comes late to school, leaves early or is in
attendance for part of the day. A facility exists within the system which permits an
explanation of the absence e.g. medical appointment, sick etc. It is the policy of the school
that all absences must be explained by either a note from the parent or a telephone call to
the school office. If the absence is for a number of days’ duration the initial note or phone
call will suffice for the length of the absence.
If you wish your child to leave school early of if you have cause to bring your child late to
school please report to the Office wherein the reason/explanation will be recorded. Parents/
Guardians must not go directly to the classroom with the child. Children will not be permitted
to go home early by themselves.
Emergency Contact Details
The details parents provide as part of the school enrolment procedure must be constantly
updated to ensure accurate information is available to the school. Changes to phone
numbers, address or person to be contacted in an emergency must be given in to the school
office in writing.
The school must have at all times updated:
•
Pupils’ addresses
•
Home, Work and mobile phone numbers
•
Emergency contact numbers
•
Persons to be contacted in an emergency
Prompt contact when a child is in distress or injured is essential so that the child’s anxiety
can be minimised.
Hollybush Primary & Nursery School Prospectus 2014 9
School Uniform
A uniform gives the pupils a sense of identify with and belonging to the
school. Pupils are encouraged to wear the school uniform each day with
the exception of ‘No Uniform’ days. We encourage the pupils to respect
their uniforms by keeping it neat and tidy.
All items of clothing should be marked with the child’s name so that lost
items can be easily returned to the pupil.
Nursery
•
•
•
•
Blue/Red/Green sweatshirt with school logo
White Polo Shirt with school logo
Navy jogging bottoms/trousers
Trainers
This uniform is best suited to children in the Nursery due to the nature of the curriculum.
Year 1 – Year 7
Boys
Girls
•
•
Navy Trousers
•
•
•
•
Pale Blue Shirt
Navy Jumper/Sweatshirt
(with school logo)
School Tie
Navy/Black Socks
Black Shoes
•
•
Navy Pinafore/Skirt/Trousers
•
•
•
•
Pale Blue Shirt/Blouse
Navy Cardigan/Jumper/Sweatshirt
(with school logo)
School Tie
Navy Socks/Tights
Black Shoes
P.E. Uniform (Year 1 – Year 7)
Summer Term (after Easter)
•
•
•
•
Pupils may if they wish wear pale blue polo
shirts (with school logo), Gingham dresses,
white socks
10
White Polo Shirt (with school logo)
Navy Shorts
Black Plimsolls (Year 1 – Year 3)
Trainers (Year 4 – Year 7)
Hollybush Primary & Nursery School Prospectus 2014
“The quality of education provided by this school is outstanding.
(ETI Inspection November 2013)
The School Curriculum
It is the policy of the Board of Governors and staff of Hollybush Primary School and Nursery
unit to provide every child with a broad and balanced education. This will be done in
keeping with the requirements of the Revised Northern Ireland Curriculum and in keeping
with the children’s age and ability. Within the curriculum provision is made to address:
(a)
The 6 areas of learning relevant to the Nursery Curriculum:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Personal, Social and Emotional Development
Physical Development and Movement
Language Development and Literacy
Mathematical Development and Numeracy
The Arts
The World Around Us
(b)
The 7 main areas of study in the Primary Curriculum:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Language and Literacy
Mathematics and Numeracy
The Arts (Music, Drama, Art)
The World Around Us (Geography, History, Sciences and Technology)
Personal Development and Mutual Understanding (focusing on emotional
development, social skills, health, relationships and sexuality, educational and
mutual understanding in the local and global community)
Physical Education and Personal Development
Religious Education
6.
7.
Through the effective delivery of the Revised Curriculum we aim to develop the children’s
•
Thinking Skills and Personal Capabilities
(Thinking, Problem Solving, Decision Making, Self Management, Working with Others,
Managing Information and Being Creative)
•
Cross Curricular Skills
(Communication, Using Mathematics, Using ICT)
•
Irish Language Lessons are delivered to pupils in Key Stage 2 by a qualified
Irish Teacher. These lessons promote a sense of culture, traditional heritage and
progressive language skills.
Hollybush Primary & Nursery School Prospectus 2014 11
The Catholic ethos of the school will permeate all aspects of the curriculum and the life of
the school and will direct the Religious Education Programme within the school. This ethos
will encourage and develop respect and inclusivity of all.
In delivering the curriculum to the pupils through interesting, active and creative experiences
we endeavour to promote amongst the pupils the desire to learn, the development
of thinking and reasoning skills, good work habits, sustained effort, concentration,
production of high quality work, a desire to achieve their full potential in all aspects of
school life, the development and promotion of Christian values and relationships.
A variety of strategies will be used to meet the specific needs of the pupils so that high
standards of attainment will be achieved in all areas of the curriculum.
Class Organisation
Teachers organise their classes in a variety of ways to meet the individual and collective
needs of the class. These include:
•
•
•
•
Whole Class Teaching
Group Work
Paired Groupings
Individual Work
The chosen approaches will depend on the:
•
•
•
•
Needs of the pupils
Nature of the topic
Availability of resources
Safety aspects in regard to the materials being used.
This varied approach is designed to maximise the learning experiences and opportunities for
our pupils.
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Hollybush Primary & Nursery School Prospectus 2014
“The children’s learning is monitored and evaluated regularly ensuing progression”.
ETI Inspection (November 2013)
Assessment
Assessment of pupils’ work is an integral part
of the teaching and learning within the school.
Assessment is in two categories:
•
•
Assessment for Learning
Assessment of Learning
A variety of strategies are used to assess
children’s
(a) formative (b) summative learning.
The progress of pupils is assessed through
informal and formal methods including the
professional judgement of the teacher assisted
where relevant by the Classroom Assistant and /
or other professional personnel.
Computer Based Assessment (NINA/NILA) are set during the months of October-November
for Year 4-Year 7 pupils. These act as a baseline to ascertain pupils’ strengths and areas for
development in Literacy and Numeracy.
Standardised tests are set during the month of May for Year 3 - Year 7 pupils.
Annual Reports and Parent/Teacher meetings are available to inform parents of their child’s
progress and to offer support for parents in assisting with the child’s learning.
There is statutory assessment in the Cross Curricular Skills of Communication and Using
Mathematics at the end of Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2. Parents are informed of the levels
attained by their child in these areas.
Statutory Assessment in Using I.C.T will follow in due course and pupils’ attainment levels in
this area will also be reported to parents.
All data collated about a child’s performance including that of self assessment by the
children is used to effectively track individual, class, year and whole school progress.
Hollybush Primary & Nursery School Prospectus 2014 13
“The quality of pastoral care is outstanding”.
ETI Inspection (November 2013)
Pastoral Care
At Hollybush we aim to create a caring, respectful atmosphere in which children and staff
feel safe and respected. This attitude permeates the life of the school and is extended to all
who enter the school.
The physical and emotional well being of our pupils is of paramount importance and forms
the foundation of our relationships between staff, pupils, parents and visitors.
Our Pastoral Care Policy informs our Discipline, Behaviour, Anti Bullying and Child Protection
Policies.
We endeavour to develop good behaviour and manners at all times and help children and
staff to appreciate the need for and value self discipline, positive attitudes, self-esteem and
confidence, the development of social awareness and respect for others.
Pupils from P 4 - P 7 can be elected by their peers to the Student Council. This group
represents pupils’ views and contributes to the decision making process at school
management level.
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Hollybush Primary & Nursery School Prospectus 2014
“The school has comprehensive arrangements in place for safeguarding children”.
ETI Inspection (November 2013)
Child Protection
Child Protection is of paramount importance, to all of us at Hollybush. Child Protection is
everyone’s business.
A Child Protection Policy is in existence for the protection of our children and complies with
the legislation concerning this area.
Our Designated teacher is Mr Feargal Friel and the Deputy Designated Teachers are
Mrs Sinead McGurren and Mrs Mary Grace (Nursery Designated Teacher) all of whom may
be contacted at any time regarding the welfare and/or safety of any child.
Anti Bullying
Hollybush Primary School and Nursery Unit have devised an Anti Bullying Policy to protect
children from all aspects of bullying should they arise.
The staff are vigilant to, and highly aware of, signs of bullying and will act immediately should
a concern arise or be brought to their attention by a child/parent/guardian.
The staff aim to support all children in order to provide a happy, secure learning environment
where they grow in confidence, self-esteem, learn to engage in positive social behaviours
and develop the skills and attitudes which will equip them to cope with every day situations.
Children will continually be informed both at class and whole school level of how to report
bullying incidents or child protection issues.
Hollybush Primary & Nursery School Prospectus 2014 15
Special Educational Needs
The Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator within the school is
Mrs Deborah White
Mrs White is assisted by the Learning Support Team.
However, the special educational needs of each child is the key business of each teacher.
Every teacher has been supported in building their capacity in identifying pupils who are
experiencing difficulties at a very early stage. We have a comprehensive, robust and
transparent process in place which enables us to meet the needs of these children and
allow them to make sustained progress to realise their potential. Teachers have received
professional development in identifying the barriers to children’s learning and how best to
assist the child in overcoming these barriers.
If a child has been identified as having Special Educational Needs, the parents will be
contacted immediately to discuss the child’s difficulties, whereupon an individual programme
of work will be put in place. The requirements of the Code of Practice for children with
special educational needs will be explained to parents and adhered to by the school staff.
The staff will be assisted in their work by the Educational Psychologist and other outside
agencies as is necessary to assist the staff in supporting the child to achieve his/her full
potential.
Religious Education
Our Catholic ethos forms the cornerstone of all our work at Hollybush. We encourage the
children to pray on a daily basis. We firmly believe that faith in Jesus Christ is at the centre of
a child’s personal and intellectual development.
We feel privileged to support the parents in the preparation of the children for the
Sacraments of Reconciliation, First Communion and Confirmation. We invite the parents to
become fully involved in the faith journey of their children by providing Sacramental talks and
encouraging them to attend the prayer services and Masses associated with the preparation
of the Sacraments.
The staff and Chaplain work closely together to provide many opportunities for the growth
and development of the children’s faith through school Masses, assemblies, religious plays,
involvement in Parish events and visits to Church.
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Hollybush Primary & Nursery School Prospectus 2014
Outdoor Play
We pride ourselves on the beautiful grounds of the school which consists of:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Infant and Senior playground
3 outdoor teaching courtyards
An outdoor play park
A football pitch
A wildlife garden
An outdoor reading grove
Areas of lawn
To enhance the learning potential of these areas a variety of equipment is available to the
children so that their skills and attributes may be further enhanced.
The programme for outdoor play is designed to provide opportunities and challenges for all
our pupils to develop their gross motor skills, imagination and good play skills. Children are
encouraged to take regular exercise as part of their daily routine.
In addition outdoor play is timetabled for the Foundation Stage so that they may use these
facilities on a regular basis.
The Nursery Unit has its own self contained play area but at times avails of the additional
resources within the main body of the school.
Hollybush Primary & Nursery School Prospectus 2014 17
Sport
Sport plays a major role in the life of our school. Alongside the regular P.E. lessons which
take place during the school day an extensive programme of after school sports is available
for the pupils. Activities include:
Gaelic Football
Soccer
Hurling
Tag Rugby
Netball
Swimming
Chess
Camogie
Gymnastics
Judo
Dance
In addition the school is proud of its teams:
Soccer
Gaelic Football
Netball
Chess
Swimming
Cross Country
who have enjoyed success at
many levels both at inter-school
and regional level.
Sport is viewed as a means by
which we can achieve a healthy
lifestyle and dovetails into our
Healthy Eating Policy. We celebrate
the commitment, dedication and talents of all our pupils at the annual Prize Giving in June.
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Hollybush Primary & Nursery School Prospectus 2014
Music
Music plays an important and valuable
role in the life of the school. Hollybush
has a rich tradition of music and this
tradition is carried on with our children
today.
The Musical Pathways to Learning
programme has been and continues to
be an exciting, valuable and enjoyable
experience for pupils, parents and staff.
This programme not only develops the children’s musical skills at an early age, but also
helps to develop literacy/numeracy skills whilst also developing self-esteem, confidence,
social and communication skills. It is our aspiration that the Musical Pathways to Learning
programme will be delivered to Key Stage 2 pupils in the near future.
Singing is encouraged and developed through the many class, school and parish activities.
The choir attends many venues throughout the year alongside representing the school in
competitions, charity events, religious services and Cross Community initiatives.
Pupils from Year 4 – Year 7 have the opportunity to play violin and cello which is offered
by the Western Education and Library Board Music Services. Tin whistle and recorder are
taught in class and as After School
activities.
Art/Drama
Opportunities are exploited to
develop and enhance pupils’
skills in Art/Drama both at class
and whole school level.
Pupils are encouraged to
put their skills to effective
use for wall displays, school/
class productions and to enter
external competitions or festivals.
Hollybush Primary & Nursery School Prospectus 2014 19
ECO-Agenda
Hollybush prides itself as being pioneers of a biomass heating system as well as holding
Green Flag status.
We are the first school in Northern Ireland to hold the prestigious Ashden Award. This is a
national award in recognition of the promotion of the eco-agenda within the school.
Our achievements have been due in no small part
to the sterling commitment of the pupils and staff to
relentlessly pursue every opportunity to protect the
environment and promote ways in which we can all
contribute to an eco-agenda.
Our eco-committee, supported by the co-ordinator
and staff give excellent leadership and example to all
in how we can make the world a safer, healthier place
to live. Our pupils see themselves as custodians of the
world.
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Hollybush Primary & Nursery School Prospectus 2014
Extended Schools
Hollybush has a tradition of providing an extensive After Schools Programme which has
been further enhanced by the Extended Schools Programme and provides our pupils with
an enrichment programme beyond the school day.
Children and parents have opportunities to participate in the following activities / workshops:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Breakfast Club
Accelerated Reading Programme
Count On Maths
Maths Challenge
Literacy / Numeracy Club
Speech / Language Programme
Moving Images
ECO-Club
Recorder
Netball
Art/Craft Club
Cycling Proficiency
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Gaelic Football
Soccer
Swimming
Rugby
Talking To Our babies
Reading with Your Children
Maths Workshop
Internet/Social Media Safety
Yearn to Learn
Gardening Programme
Big Fish/Wee Fish
Counselling Services
Hollybush Primary & Nursery School Prospectus 2014 21
The school has effective links with the parents who are well informed about their children’s
progress and the life and work of the school.
ETI Inspection (November 2013)
Parental Involvement
At Hollybush we recognise the essential role of parental involvement in children’s education
and it is integral to each child achieving his/her full potential.
We constantly strive to encourage parents to take an active interest by:
•
Having an induction meeting for Nursery and Year 1 parents where they get an
opportunity to meet with their child’s teacher. During this meeting the Principal will
advise parents on how best they can help their child make a good start at school.
•
The initial meeting will be followed up within one month of starting school by an
informal meeting wherein parents and staff will meet on a one to one basis to discuss
concerns regarding their child’s education/health or other issues. A formal parent/
teacher meeting will be held later in the year.
•
Parents can speak to Nursery and Year 1 staff on a daily basis when leaving or
collecting their child from school.
•
Each year we invite parents to a Parent/Teacher meeting with the class teacher in
November to discuss their child’s progress and to give strategies to support their
child’s learning.
•
Parents in year 4 and Year 7 are invited to meetings and services in preparation for the
Sacraments of Reconciliation, Eucharist and Confirmation.
•
Parents are asked to participate in questionnaires/surveys conducted by the school to
elicit views, opinions and areas of the curriculum in which they need support.
•
Parents are kept informed of events, activities, school requirements, new
developments, changes in the daily routine by text, newsletter, website and letters.
•
The Parent Forum acts as a consultative body for Principal and staff whilst reporting on
concerns and ideas raised by the parent body. It also supports–initiates fund raising
events.
•
Curriculum information evening/workshops are arranged to address needs raised by
parents in supporting their children with the curriculum.
Mrs Dunn and the staff of Hollybush greatly appreciate the support given by the parents to
the work of the school and firmly believe that this relationship is in the best interests of the
children in our care.
•
22
Parents may address with the Principal or Class Teacher any matters of concern by
contacting the school office, whereupon an appointment will be made so that your
concerns can be given due attention.
Hollybush Primary & Nursery School Prospectus 2014
Accidents / Medication
Adults carefully supervise children in the playgrounds during playtime, lunchtime and
outdoor play. On rainy days the pupils are supervised within the school.
If your child becomes ill or has an accident the following steps will be taken:
1.
We will contact you or your nominated person by telephone explaining the
circumstances of your child’s illness/accident. Your child will be supervised in school
until an adult can collect him/her.
2.
In the event of a serious accident, you will be informed of the accident and if
necessary, our intention to bring your child to hospital.
3.
Staff are not permitted to administer medication to pupils. Children may self administer
medication under the supervision of staff. Parents are permitted to come into school to
administer medication if necessary.
Exceptions to this policy are only permitted in exceptional circumstances. These are at the
discretion of the Principal.
Hollybush Primary & Nursery School Prospectus 2014 23
Homework
Homework is viewed as having an important value in Hollybush Primary School for the
following reasons:
•
•
•
•
•
It consolidates and reinforces work already done in class.
It encourages self discipline and personal organisation.
It creates additional time for structured learning.
It bridges the gap between home and school.
It allows direct involvement by parents in their child’s learning.
The Homework Policy is available on request from the school office but queries or concerns
regarding homework may be addressed with the class teacher.
Links with Other Schools/Organisations
In Hollybush we have developed strong links with other schools so that the experiences of
our pupils may be enhanced.
Pupils from Thornhill College support the pupils with the Faith Friends and peered maths
programmes. Furthermore, Thornhill makes available to the school its extensive P.E.
facilities.
St Mary’s College works closely with Hollybush to develop scientific and ICT skills in our
pupils as they can avail of the specialised resources and expertise at St Mary’s.
We work alongside Culmore Primary School with Sacramental preparation for Confirmation
and for the Community ICT project.
Other organisations include:
Greater Shantallow Area Partnerships
University of Ulster
Nerve Centre
St Mary’s University College
PlayhouseLetterkenny Technical College
Derry City CouncilN.W.I.F.H.E.
Aurora Counselling
All Pipe Engineering
City of Derry Rugby Club
Original Heating
G.A.A.
These contribute to the life and educational experience of our pupils and staff.
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Hollybush Primary & Nursery School Prospectus 2014
Nursery Unit is Outstanding. (ETI Inspection November 2013)
Nursery Unit Admissions Criteria
Hollybush Primary School
Nursery Unit
10 Ardan Road
Culmore
Derry
BT48 8JN
Tel No: 028 7135 2202
Fax No: 028 7135 9927
E-mail: info@hollybush.derry.ni.sch.uk
Principal: Mrs C Dunn
Admissions No: 52
Voluntary Maintained
Age Range 2-4
Chairperson: Mr John Kelpie
Roll: Part-time 52
General Information
Hollybush Nursery Unit is located in a quiet residential area, approximately 5 miles from the
city centre, within the grounds of Hollybush Primary School. It is a purpose-built unit, which is
completely separate and self-contained. It is a bright, colourful and welcoming environment,
with its own outdoor play area including a safety surface.
The enthusiastic staff, consisting of a qualified teacher and nursery assistant, believe that
Nursery Education is a very important first step for pre-school children to develop confidence
and independence. We aim to encourage enquiring minds and promote positive selfesteem in a caring, stimulating and secure environment.
Finally, we emphasize the importance of the partnership between the nursery staff and
parents/guardians in supporting and encouraging the children.
It should be noted that if a child does not secure a place in Hollybush Nursery Unit due to
more applications than places available, applications for admittance to Primary 1 in Hollybush
Primary School would be welcomed as up to 60 places are available for Primary 1.
Admissions Criteria
Children who are not normally resident in Northern Ireland will not be considered for places
until all children who live in Northern Ireland have been considered.
The nursery unit staff plan and provide an interesting and progressively challenging pre
school programme that meets effectively the needs of all the children.
(ETI Inspection November 2013)
Hollybush Primary & Nursery School Prospectus 2014 25
The Board of Governors have determined that, in the event of there being more applicants
than places available the following criteria will be applied, in the order set down, to select
children for the available places.
Preference will be given to those applications that place Hollybush Nursery Unit as their
1st choice of pre-school provision.
Statutory Criteria
1
Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances born between 2 July 2010 and 1
July 2011 who normally reside in the Parish of Culmore.
2
Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances born between 2 July 2010 and 1
July 2011.
Note: A child from socially disadvantaged circumstances means a child whose parent is
in receipt of Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance: where an award
of Income Support has been ‘converted’ into an Employment and Support Allowance
and the Social Security Agency has confirmed that the level of benefit remains the
same then the parent should continue to be treated as being in ‘socially disadvantaged
circumstances’.
3
Children born between 2 July 2010 and 1 July 2011
a)
b)
c)
d)
Who normally reside in the Parish of Culmore
Who have a sibling already attending or who has attended Hollybush Primary
School. *(Please state names.)
Whose parents/guardians are a permanent member of the teaching, ancillary or
Board of Governors staff at Hollybush Primary School.
Who are the eldest/only child in the family.
Non-Statutory Criteria
4
Children born between 2 July 2011 and 1 July 2012 will be admitted in order of
chronological age in descending order. (In the event of two or more identical dates of
birth, selection will be made using the random alphabetical tie-breaker as listed below.)
In the event of over-subscription in the last sub-criterion which can be applied then selection
for all places remaining in this category will be on the basis of the initial letter of the surname
as per the birth certificate in the order set out below:
26
D
N
P
Z
S
E
U
M
K
A G
F O Mac
H
T
L
Y
Mc I
J R
B
C
W
Q
V
X
Hollybush Primary & Nursery School Prospectus 2014
The order was determined by a randomised selection of letters of the alphabet. In the event
of surnames beginning with the same letter the subsequent letters of the surnames will be
used in alphabetical order. In the event of two identical surnames the alphabetical order of
the initials of the forenames as per the birth certificate will be used.
It is important that parent(s)/guardian(s) when submitting the application form, give all
the relevant supporting information and written evidence that may be needed, including
the child’s birth certificate. If a place is offered on the basis of incorrect or misleading
information then the Board of Governors may withdraw the offer. All criteria will apply as
at the closing date on the application form.
The Admissions Criteria will be applied by a Selection Committee consisting of the Principal
and 3 Governors, subject to the final approval of the Board of Governors.
If parent(s)/guardian(s) have any difficulty in completing the form they should consult the
Principal.
Waiting Lists
The school will operate a waiting list. This will be compiled from applicants who have not
been selected in the initial stages of the selection process. Should places become available
the admissions criteria as set out above will be re-applied to all applicants on the waiting list.
Applications after 1 September 2014
The same criteria will be used for applications after 1 September 2014.
Parent(s)/Guardian(s) should note that if their child is seeking nursery provision
for the 2nd year they MUST reapply.
Hollybush Primary & Nursery School Prospectus 2014 27
Primary School Admissions Criteria
Hollybush Primary School
10 Ardan Road
Culmore
Derry BT48 8JN
Tel No:028 7135 2202
Fax No: 028 7135 9927
E-mail: info@hollybush.derry.ni.sch.uk
Principal: Mrs C Dunn
Admissions No: 57
Catholic Maintained
Co-Educational
Age Range 4-11
Roll: 369
Chairperson: Mr John Kelpie
Enrolment No: 396
Admissions Criteria – Year 1
Where application for admissions exceed the admissions number the following criteria
will be applied in the order set down (1-3) by the Principal and a Sub-Committee of three
members of the Board of Governors of Hollybush Primary School in selecting children for
admission to Year 1 in September. Priority within each criterion will be given at all times to
pupils regarded by the Board of Governors on the basis of supporting evidence by parents/
guardians and/or statutory agencies, as having special circumstances (medical, social,
security factors). Priority will be given to children resident in Northern Ireland.
1
Children of compulsory school age whose place of residence is in the Parish of the
Assumption Culmore:
(a)
(b)
children who have brothers/sisters (half-brothers/half-sisters) presently enrolled
in the school.
Other children.
2
Children who have attended Hollybush Primary School Nursery Unit.
3
Children of compulsory school age from other areas:
(a)
(b)
(c)
28
who have brothers/sisters (half-brothers/half-sisters) presently enrolled in the
school.
whose parents/guardians is presently a permanent member of the school
teaching/ancillary/auxiliary staff.
other children.
Hollybush Primary & Nursery School Prospectus 2014
If over-subscribed in any one of the Sub-Criteria, taken in order, final selection will be on
the basis of the closeness of the home to the school as measured by the shortest walking
distance.
Year 1 Admissions – After the Beginning of the School Year
If a place(s) become available after 1 September 2014 and there are more applicants than
places then selection of pupils will be made on the application of Year 1 Admissions Criteria
to those pupils seeking admissions at the time the place(s) become available.
Admissions Criteria – Years 2-7
Pupils will be considered for enrolment provided that:
(i)
the school would not exceed its enrolment number; and
(ii) in the opinion of the Board of Governors their admission would not prejudice the
efficient use of the school’s resources.
If, at the time of the consideration of the application, there are more eligible applicants than
places available then the Admissions Criteria for entry to Year 1 of pupils of compulsory
school age will be applied.
Hollybush Primary & Nursery School Prospectus 2014 29
Complaints Policy and Procedure
The Complaints Policy and Procedure is based on the dual expectation of addressing
pupils’ needs and endeavouring to resolve matters as close to the point of difficulty as
possible. If parents have any concerns or reservations they should contact the class teacher
immediately. If the matter raised is not resolved, then parents should contact the Principal or
Vice-principal. A meeting will be arranged at a mutually agreed time. If the matter raised is
still not resolved then it may be addressed, as necessary, by the Board of Governors.
A copy of the Complaints Policy and Procedure may be obtained on request from the school
office.
Charges and Remission
The Board of Governors accepts as its policy the model statement of policy in regard to
Charges and Remission prepared by the Western Education and Library Board.
Transfer Arrangements
At the end of Year 7 pupils will transfer to Post primary level education. The school will
follow the transfer arrangements as directed by the Western Education and Library Board.
In February parents will be provided with the opportunity to meet with the Principal and/
or Class Teacher for advice on their child’s transfer choices. Copies of the transfer
arrangements will be distributed to the parents of Year 7 pupils in keeping with regulation.
30
Hollybush Primary & Nursery School Prospectus 2014
Partnership
I dreamed I stood in a studio
And watched two sculptors there.
The clay they used was a young child’s mind,
and they fashioned it with care.
One was a teacher; the tools she used
Were books and music and art.
One was a parent with a guiding hand
And a gentle loving heart.
And when at last their work was done
They were proud of what they had wrought,
For the things they had worked into the child
Could never be sold or bought.
And each agreed she would have failed
If she had worked alone,
For behind the parent stood the school,
And behind the teacher stood the home.
Author Unknown
Hollybush Primary & Nursery School
10 Ardan Road, Culmore, Derry, BT48 8JN
Telephone: 028 7135 2202
Fax: 028 7135 9927
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