SEPT 2012 – JULY 2013
MINET JUNIOR SCHOOL
AVONDALE DRIVE
HAYES
MIDDLESEX
UB3 3NR
Telephone number
Fax number
01895 671973
020 8573 6647
HEADTEACHER:
Mr. S.P. Foot
(Tuesday-Friday)
HEADTEACHER:
Ms. J. E. Dunworth
(Monday)
CHAIR OF GOVERNORS:
Cllr. Roy Hill
EDUCATION OFFICE:
London Borough of Hillingdon
Education Department
Civic Centre
UXBRIDGE.
Middlesex
UB8 1UW
Telephone number: 01895 250111
GOVERNING BODY
Co-opted Representatives:
Mrs J Ogunyami
Mrs G Foot
Mr D Otieno-Ndale
Mrs S Elliott
Mr H. Ali Khan
LEA Representatives
Cllr R Hill
Ms Vinu Prabakher
Vacancy
Parent Representative:
Mrs Abdi
Mr Siddique
Vacancy
Teacher Representatives:
Ms J Dunworth
Non Teaching Rep:
Mr K Giebeler
Headteacher:
Mr S P Foot
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Governing Body meeting minutes can be viewed at the school. Reasonable notice is required.
Parents can, if they wish, attend Governing Body meetings as observers. Please inform the Chair of
Governors in advance if you wish to attend.
This list is accurate as at June 2012.
SCHOOL VISION
“Enjoy, Achieve and Value All”
Based on 4C’s ~ Co-operation, Consideration, Courtesy and Care
AIM
At Minet Junior School we aim to develop a positive and responsible attitude in all that we do at school.
We always show respect and consideration for each other and for our environment.
Children Learn What They Live
If a child lives with criticism
She learns to condemn.
If a child lives with hostility,
He learns to fight.
If a child lives with ridicule,
She learns to be shy.
He learns to feel guilty.
If a child lives with tolerance
She learns to be patient.
If a child lives with praise,
He learns to appreciate.
If a child lives with fairness,
She learns justice.
If a child lives with security,
He learns to have faith.
If a child lives with approval,
She learns to like herself.
If a child lives with acceptance and friendship
He learns to find love in the world.
We believe that a positive ethos is a vital ingredient in a successful school. We aim to praise good work
and behaviour wherever possible. We also ensure that every child is given the opportunity to succeed.
A BRIEF HISTORY OF MINET JUNIOR SCHOOL
The school was officially opened in 1956, the staff and children having been gradually transferred from the
old Townfield site. The school roll was to rise to over five hundred children in the 1970's and has been
healthy ever since. At present July 2010 the roll is 438, with 24 teachers.
The main block of the school contains ten classrooms, an ICT suite, a staff room, a medical room and
administrative rooms. An additional teaching area was added to the school in the form of a two storey
terrapin building. This currently houses three classes upstairs and one downstairs. The remaining two
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classes are used by the infant school. This building was refurbished in December 1991 and was re-roofed
in 2001. Over the last three years space within the main building has been adapted to incorporate two
smaller teaching units and an extra room built on the front entrance of the school. A purpose built hall is
used for PE, assemblies, school meals and school productions. It has a stage and special lighting was
installed for this in 1988. The double mobile houses 2 Year 5 classes. From September 1998 the school
became a 4 form entry i.e. 16 classes, each class being of mixed ability. The school has a lift in the main
building to make us fully accessible. A new building was constructed in the middle of the main playground
in 2008. It houses a new Library, Meetings Room, Staff Work Area and Kitchen (+ outdoor classroom).
Community groups use the hall on occasions for meetings during some evenings and at the weekends.
Apart from these changes, the school is basically as it was in shape and design 54 years ago. Many of the
children attending the school today are the sons and daughters of previous pupils, a factor, which makes
Minet Junior truly a community school. The school has over 50 languages and we are proud of the
diversity of our ethnic groups, religions and cultures. The composition of our staff reflects this diversity.
ADMISSIONS
The school caters for children between the ages of seven and eleven years. Children admitted to Year 3
should have attained the age of seven on or after September 1st. The main September intake each year
comes from Minet Infant School and opportunities are provided for these children and their parents to visit
the juniors and meet as many of the staff as possible. Any parent or prospective parent wishing to see
around the school should contact the school secretary who will then make the necessary arrangements.
SCHOOL TIMES
Morning school starts at
Morning Break
Lunch Break
Afternoon school starts at
School ends at
08.50
10.15 – 10.30 (Mon, Wed, Frid ) 10.00 – 10.15 (Tues, Thurs)
12.00 – 12.55
13.00
15.05
Children should be in the playground by 08.45 a.m. but should not be there before 8.30 a.m.
Responsibility for the children prior to this time remains with the parents or carers. Similarly,
responsibility for the children after the last session ceases to be the school’s fifteen minutes from the end
unless there is voluntary attendance at a club of match.
** Breakfast Club: 7.30 a.m. ~ 8.20 a.m. ** For Junior School Pupils Only**
HOME-SCHOOL CONTRACTS
In line with Government Guidelines the school has now developed such contracts to promote a greater
working partnership between teachers and parents to provide the best for children in our care.
SCHOOL RULES
1.
2.
3.
4.
Walk about school in a sensible manner
Keep away from prohibited areas
Dangerous objects are forbidden
Do not bring any items of value to school without permission. The school will not be responsible
for any losses.
5. Do not bring sweets to school
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6. Fruit may be eaten at morning break
7. Clothing or equipment brought to school should be clearly marked with the owner's name.
8. Items of jewellery should not be worn for safety reasons. This should especially apply to finger
rings and earrings. In the latter case only one sleeper or stud should be worn on each ear and
only on the ear lobe, these must be removed for PE and Games. If this cannot be done parents
must provide adhesive plaster to cover up the earrings.
9. No other piercing and no nail varnish or tattoos.
10. Hair should not be coloured bright or have markings i.e. patterns into shaved heads.
.
CONSULTATION WITH STAFF
Parents are always most welcome at school. When you come along, would you in the interests of safety
and security firstly go to the school office so that the staff concerned can then account for your presence on
the premises.
Brief discussions on minor matters can take place with members of staff either before the start of school in
the morning or when it has closed in the afternoon. Longer interviews should be arranged with the Head,
Co- head teacher or Class teacher in advance.
Open afternoons are held each term for parental consultations. Those in the autumn and spring are formal
in nature, the one in the summer is informal, giving you the opportunity to speak to the teachers as is
appropriate. During the Autumn term an informal meeting is held with each year group to explain aspects
of the Curriculum and school procedures. Information is also given out during that term dealing with Yr. 6
transfer to Secondary School.
If you believe your child is having serious problems at school, the first approach should be to the class
teacher. Thereafter, it may be suitable to contact either the Year Leader, the Co- Head teacher/Deputy or
the Head. The Co- Head teacher/Deputy is Ms. Dunworth. She is Head teacher on a Monday and Deputy
for the rest of the week, as Mr Foot does not work on a Monday.
Please remember that the staff at the school have many commitments that cannot readily be dropped. If
you decide to come to the school ‘on spec’, it may not always be possible for someone to see you at that
time.
CHILD PROTECTION
It may be helpful for parents to be aware that the Local Authority requires all Headteachers to report any
obvious or suspected case of child abuse. This may be a non- accidental injury, physical neglect,
emotional abuse and/or sexual abuse. The designated teachers for Child Protection are Mr Foot, Ms
Dunworth and Mrs Calveley (SENCO).
Schools are encouraged to take the attitude that where there are grounds for suspicion it is better to be safe
than sorry. The procedure is intended to protect children who may be at risk.
This does mean that the Headteachers or Designated Teacher may upset some parents by reporting a case,
which on investigation proves unfounded. In such circumstances it is hoped that parents will appreciate
the sensitive nature of the Headteachers and Designated Teacher’s role. The Headteachers and the staff of
the school endeavour to act in the best interest of the child and take this responsibility very seriously.
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THE CURRICULUM
The following subjects make up the curriculum:
Mathematics
Art Craft
ICT
Music Design and Technology
English
Religious Education
Geography
Swimming, French,
Science, Physical Education , History , Personal, Social and Health Education & Citizenship
The school's curriculum is linked to the National Curriculum, with due regard given to the guidelines
published by the Local Education Authority. The school is a nationally accredited Healthy School and
holds a Basic Skills Accreditation.
In both Language and Mathematics we ‘set’ the children in attainment groups. The work in mathematics
is planned to enable the children to acquire the necessary basic number skills, solve everyday problems
and to think for themselves. The school still follows the Primary Literacy and Numeracy Strategies.
English language is common to every subject and it is essential that every child is able to use it correctly
and efficiently. A structured reading scheme is in use. A love of books and literature is actively
encouraged, particularly within the Literacy Hour. As well as individual reading, group reading also takes
place during this hour. Reading is a key priority for the school.
Information, Communication & Technology (ICT) will be found across the whole curriculum and will
help the child to acquire confidence in using computers. Not only should they be better equipped to face
the future, they should also be able to evaluate the potential as well as the limitations of this technology.
Each class has a weekly lesson in our ICT suite.
The school is fully networked and the use of the Internet is incorporated into IT teaching. Our E-safety
Agreement exists to ensure that both parents and children understand the correct use of the Internet i.e.
children can access only appropriate material. ( Appendix 1)
We also have Fronter (MLE) where pupils can log into a secure area in school and at home and access a
wealth of resources.
Religious Education, whilst largely concerned with Christian beliefs, covers all of the main religions of the
world and takes great account of other customs and traditions. In this way we hope that all the children
will develop tolerance, understanding and awareness of the cultural richness of today's world. This subject
is linked to an agreed syllabus, backed up with legislation on national expectations. Assemblies for the
whole school are held on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
At Minet Junior Sex Education forms only one part of our personal, social and health education
programme. The Governing body have decided that sex education should take the form of a "spiral
Curriculum" to allow the subject to be developed over a period of time to build on the children’s levels of
understanding. We also see that the parents have a crucial role to play in the child's development and this
subject should be a shared experience between home and school. The above criteria may change if the
governing body decides to alter its policy.
Since September 1994, parents have had the right to withdraw their children from any sex
education provided it is not part of the National Curriculum. (If you have any concerns please discuss with
your child’s class teacher). Reasonable notice of such an intention is required in order to aid organization
and planning.
The school has developed a Drugs Awareness Policy in collaboration with the LEA/Governors and
Parents.
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Religious education and those elements of sex education not included in National Curriculum science are
the only parts of the curriculum from which a parent may request withdrawal of a child. If you wish to
carry this out please inform the Head, Co- Head/Deputy, Year Leader or the RE. Co-ordinator.
From May 2000 this role has been held by Miss. Dring. If you do withdraw your child from religious
activities, please arrange for an alternative activity for your child while these take place. The child can
then rejoin the class or assembly once the activity is over. If you withdraw your child from part or all of
any sex education, alternative arrangements will be made for them.
Please note: With the exception of the above, the curriculum is compulsory, including physical education,
games and swimming. There is no right of parental withdrawal as a consequence. Physical Education
contributes to the health, bodily development and fitness of each child through regular, planned and
purposeful activities.
Science is aimed at encouraging a child's natural curiosity, interest in the environment and the stimulation
of questioning and reasoned approaches to problem solving.
French has been taught throughout the school since 2008. Each class is taught by a specialist teacher for
half an hour each week. Work is then continued by the class teacher.
History and Geography is focused on the teaching of key skills often combined and approached via a topic
which is based on a particular theme. Art and craft is approached in the same way.
Design and Technology will involve the children in planning, designing and testing models, usually
through problem solving exercises, linked with other curricular areas when appropriate.
Art and Craft provides the children with opportunities to explore the nature and characteristics of a wide
range of materials.
Music lessons help to encourage enjoyment of music, giving them opportunities to make music for
themselves. Specialist violin lessons are offered to select children from Year 4 on Wednesday mornings.
All children take part in singing practice for half an hour every week.
Due to the lack of space in the hall it is not possible to invite parents to some functions or activities that
take place during the school day. Health and safety considerations are paramount on these occasions.
On entry to the school each child is issued with a ruler and a reading record. Those lost or broken can be
purchased from the school at the current price.
The children should be encouraged to obtain their own coloured pencils, pencil sharpeners, felt pens and
mathematical instruments.
HOMEWORK
Homework is seen as a key part of children’s learning and the school follows Government guidelines.
Children are given Mathematics and Literacy homework every week. Parents are also asked to aid the
school in this process by supporting reading each evening and helping with the learning of mathematical
tables. A revised policy has been in place since October 2008. Study support is available for pupils to raise
standards and the school does provide 1-1 tutoring for selected pupils
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EDUCATIONAL TRIPS
The Governing Body has a policy covering these events. Trips that are linked with work done as part of
the curriculum have become an established part of school life but in so far as the law does not permit us to
make a compulsory charge for them, other than board and lodging, no future school trips will be able to
take place, unless sufficient voluntary payments are made to cover the cost. The named Educational Visits
Organiser (EVO) is Ms Dunworth.
EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
The school offers a range of after school clubs, such as Rugby, Football Athletics, Netball, Cricket, Speed
Stacks, Sewing, Street Dance, More Able, Tuition and Study Support. We recognise our diverse
population and are offering more clubs to include all children.
CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS
A child may need to be referred to the Educational Psychologist for educational or behavioural problems.
This might either be at the parents' request from the outset or deemed necessary on an exploratory basis by
the head. For any action to be instigated thereafter it is necessary for the parents to give their permission.
A child of exceptional ability would be able to extend work undertaken via the levels of the National
Curriculum.
Mrs Calveley is our SENCO and Mr Hill is the Special Needs Link Governor. (Chair of Governors)
RECORD KEEPING & ASSESSMENT
Record keeping and assessment are a continuous process in the school. This is backed up by annual
testing. Year 6 are required to take Standard Assessment tasks (SATs) in English and Maths in May. Years
3, 4 and 5 take similar tests in Language and Maths developed by QCA.
Each term teachers hold progress meetings with SMT to discuss the progress of every pupil.
Parents and children have access at reasonable notice to all records kept on their children. Children must
apply to the school in writing to access their own records.
If you have any concerns about any part of the National Curriculum not being delivered to your child, you
have the right of complaint under the terms of the Educational Reform Act. The Local Education
Authority has established a formal procedure for the consideration of complaints. Your first point of
contact is the Headteacher.
BEHAVIOUR
At Minet we primarily aim to develop self-control and self-discipline in our children. Children are
encouraged to take responsibility for their own behaviour.
Our behaviour policy is centred on the "4 C’s":
CONTROL of self
CARE for each other and the school environment
COURTESY at all times to everyone
CONSIDERATION to all others
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We believe that rewards for good things done are much more positive than giving punishments for
wrongdoing. To encourage this we run a house system through which children can win house points.
These in turn can lead to a termly award of a cup to the house with the highest total.
Merit badges and certificates can be achieved for such things as good work, a helpful attitude, for
improving work or behaviour or for being considerate to others and are awarded to the children in Merit
assemblies.
There is also a system whereby letters of commendation from the Headteacher are sent to parents praising
a child's attitude to school and the work carried on there. In this way we hope that those achieving the
rewards will influence others by their example. Children also receive rewards for excellent attendance and
punctuality as these are key priorities for our school.
The school has a ‘step’ plan for poor conduct. This is designed to inform and involve parents at an early
stage if their child has any behavioural problems. (Appendix 2)
.
Sanctions
1. Reasoned discussion of misdemeanour
2. Loss of free time at lunch or break
3. Exclusion from out of school activities
4. Internal exclusion from class
5. Exclusion of pupil from attending school, including lunch breaks (Seclusion)
6. Exclusion for the statutory number of days in any one term (Seclusion)
7. Permanent exclusion
The school and parents working in partnership can solve disciplinary problems. In some instances parents
may be asked to come along to the school to discuss the behaviour of their child with members of staff.
PARENT CONTRACTS:
These may be set up between the school and parents to support children with behaviour concerns.
.
PASTORAL CARE
All staff are concerned that the children's school life should be both happy and productive and the children
should be encouraged to approach them with any problems and worries. We operate a Zero Tolerance
policy for abuse to school staff / parents on site
The school employs two Learning Mentors to support targeted pupils, Mrs Elliott and Mrs Culverhouse.
MEDICAL CARE
The Welfare Assistant (Mrs Pauline Aldworth) takes charge of any child who is sick or has an accident. If
the child is too ill to remain at school the parents are contacted and asked to make arrangements to collect
the child. In the event of a child needing referral to hospital the parents will again be contacted.
Depending on the urgency of the need, parents will be asked to come along to school or go directly to
hospital. It is useful to note that hospitals will not carry out treatment until a parent is present. If your
child is sick, he or she should not be sent back to school for 24 hours.
IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT YOU KEEP US INFORMED OF CHANGES OF
TELEPHONE NUMBERS AND ADDRESSES.
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In common with practically every other local authority in the country Hillingdon does not carry personal
accident insurance for the children in its schools. Parents, if they wish, can make their own arrangements
either with a separate policy or through their household policies.
If a child has a "medical condition" it is essential that the school is informed.
Medicines are best administered at home but if it is essential that they are given medicine at school, please
arrange for them to be handed to the Welfare Assistant.
The medicine should have a letter of consent and be only that which is prescribed by a doctor.
The child's name, class and dosage should be clearly marked on the container. No other medication of any
kind should be brought into school.
ASTHMA
This condition is becoming more prevalent and due to the distressing nature of the symptoms, it is
essential that the sufferer has access to relief medication. All children using inhalers are put on the school
asthma register.
To that end the following guidelines apply to Minet Junior School:
All children must have the correct medication in school.
You child must have 2 blue inhalers in school - one that is kept in the child’s classroom and one that is
kept in a secure cabinet in the medical room with access always being available.
If your child no longer needs an inhaler you must inform the school and your child will be removed from
the school asthma register.
Please remember, the school must be kept up-to-date about any medical problems your
child may have. Failure to do so may result in serious consequences for the health and
safety of your child.
SCHOOL UNIFORM
The wearing of this is seen by the Headteacher and staff as an important aspect of school life. The
following school uniform list should prove helpful and all items with a school logo can be purchased from
the Welfare Assistant.
GIRLS:
Royal Blue Sweatshirt with school logo
Royal Blue Fleece with school logo (optional)
Sky Blue Polo shirt with school logo or plain white Polo
Black/grey/navy skirt or trousers
Blue & white gingham dress with black/grey/navy cardigan (optional for summer)
White/grey/navy socks and sensible black shoes with low heel
School Tie (optional)
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BOYS:
Royal Blue Sweatshirt with school logo
Royal Blue Fleece with school logo (optional)
Sky Blue Polo shirt with school logo or plain white Polo/shirt
Tie (optional)
Black/grey/navy trousers or shorts (optional for summer)
White/grey/navy socks and sensible black shoes
School Tie (optional)
P.E. KIT (Boys and girls)
Sky Blue T shirt with school logo or plain white T shirt
Navy/black shorts (NOT Bermuda style shorts)
White socks
Plimsolls (indoor) Trainers (outdoor)
Track suit (optional for winter when doing outside games)
Blue/black Swimming costume/trunks and swimming hat
Book bags and Sun hats bearing the school logo can also be purchased from the school.
Please ensure your child does not wear soccer type shirts, hooded tops or jeans to school. Also please
ensure that your child wears black sensible school shoes at all times ~ no heels.
Any headwear worn for religious/cultural reasons must be tied back for Health and Safety reasons, should
not be worn loose and coloured either blue, black or white.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
If for medical or religious reasons legs must be covered during PE lessons, boys may wear tracksuit
trousers, on their parent's responsibility, and girls may wear close fitting leggings.
Children must be provided with a PE kit to change into and not use the clothes and shoes they have been
wearing during the day.
As PE is a compulsory subject in the curriculum, no child can miss these activities, unless there is a
compelling medical reason.
Swimming is also a compulsory element of the National Curriculum (years 4, 5 & 6).
Children are not allowed to wear watches and any type of jewellery for PE, Games and Swimming, as it
is unsafe.
SCHOOL POLICY FOR RACIAL EQUALITY STATEMENT
The school has a clear policy to Promote Race Equality based on the Race Relations Act 2000. The policy
underpins all aspects of school life and aims to:Promote racial equality
Promote good race relations and
Eliminate unlawful discrimination
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EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES
As a school staff, we believe in everyone’s right to this concept. We rigorously implement planning and
policies through which all members of the school population have equal access and opportunities regardless
of cultural background, race, creed or colour or disabilities. Facilities for disabled pupils are located in the
double mobile and on the ground floor in the main building corridor.
We also aim to foster a sense of community. It is important that everyone involved in the school, be they
teaching or support staff, governors, parents or children should feel that they belong. This is particularly
true for the children who must be encouraged to develop a sense of ownership and pride in their school.
This will clearly encourage responsible and socially acceptable behaviour.
In the rare event of the ultimate punishment being imposed, that of a form of exclusion from the school,
rest assured that this action will not have been taken lightly. The staff and I will have tried all
conventional means to change attitudes for the better. However, I will always keep as my paramount
concern the safety of the other children and respect for property
ATTENDANCE
When pupils are absent notification is required on the day by telephone or a brief note of
explanation is legally needed on their return to school.
Pupils may not be taken out of school to go on holiday during term time.
Authority fines may result if enforced by the Educational Welfare Service.
Local
If a child is away from the school for more than four weeks, his/her name may be taken off the
school roll. If children are to be collected for a clinic or hospital appointment, please give the school
prior warning by bringing in the appointment card or hospital letter.
Children cannot be allowed to leave school on their own to attend dental, hospital or doctor's
appointments.
Parents who move from the area are requested to let the school know in good time where possible and to
supply the new address and the name of the prospective school if known.
Pupils are expected to be in the school playground and lined up by 8.45 a.m. ready to enter their
class.
Persistent lateness is disruptive, bad training and not acceptable. Children who are
persistently late will be reported to the school's Educational Welfare Officer who will take the
matter up with the parents concerned.
Please note: If your child does not attend school during the morning session then they should not
return until 12.50 p.m. ready for the afternoon session. They should have their lunch at home before
returning to school for the afternoon session.
SCHOOL MEALS
These consist of a variety of set meals at £1.75per day that also includes a drink. Parents who want their
child to have a paid meal each day must send in the money on a daily basis (have the correct money
please). Your child will pay the money direct to the catering company as they enter the dining hall.
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A child can bring a packed lunch, which should preferably be stored in a plastic container. In the interests
of safety, NO BOTTLES OR CANS will be permitted.
Application forms for "free school meals" are available from the school. If you wish your child to go home
for lunch I would be grateful if you could let the school know. Your child should not return to school
before 12.50 p.m.
THE MINET SCHOOL ASSOCIATION (PTA)
The Association welcomes new members or help with functions and is mainly concerned with the raising
of extra funds to provide extra equipment or materials for the children. There is a constitution and a
committee is elected early in the Autumn Term. Further information can be obtained by contacting Ms.
Dunworth or Mr. Foot.
(Appendix 3).
SCHOOL SECURITY
As with every aspect of school life, security is taken very seriously. All adults who work in the school are
as vigilant as possible and will challenge any person found in areas where they should not be. This will
include parents, who bypass the school office. Measures have been taken to ensure the security and safety of
all that inhabit the school. Coded entry systems have been installed on all the entrances around the school.
All classrooms outside the main building and the administration area have been fitted with panic alarms.
Visitors will be unable to drive onto the school site, as an automated gate has been fitted at the entrance of
the drive and access will be restricted.
All visitors to the school, including parents, are required to come to the school office first. This will ensure
that anyone who does not follow this logical rule can be challenged accordingly. Some people may find
these measures irksome or inconvenient but this is the price to be paid for the tragic events of the past.
Professional Development Undertaken by Teaching Staff.
Each year the school purchases a training package from the local authority. This gives the teachers access to
a whole range of relevant courses throughout the year.
Most of these are ‘twilight’ courses, taking place in the evenings, though a number require day release for
which supply teachers have to be hired.
In addition, teachers attend weekly staff meetings, most of which deal with forms of professional
development. There are also five days per year set aside for training.
Attached Appendix
“
“
1 – E-Safety Agreement
2 - Behaviour Guidelines – Step System
3 - PTA Letter
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