LITTLEBOROUGH
COMMUNITY PRIMARY
SCHOOL
PROSPECTUS 2006-2007
LITTLEBOROUGH
COMMUNITY
PRIMARY SCHOOL
Calderbrook Road
Littleborough
Rochdale
OL15 9HW
Tel: 01706 378556
Fax: 01706 376961
Email:
office@Littleborough.rochdale.sch.uk
Website:
www.littleborough.rochdale.sch.uk
Headteacher:
Mr J.B Hollingworth
Chair of Governors:
Mr P Muir
2
B.Sc. (Hons)
P.G.C.E. Dip. Maths
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
Welcome
School Ethos/Mission Statement
Littleborough School
Starting school/Transition from home
Littleborough Nursery
Admissions
CURRICULUM ORGANISATION AND TEACHING METHODS
Classroom Organisation
Class Structure
Early Years – Foundation Stage
National Curriculum
Assessment, Recording and Reporting
National Curriculum subjects
 English
 Maths
 Science
 Technology (inc ICT)
 Creative Arts (inc Music)
 History
 Geography
 PE & Games – Sports policy
MISCELLANEOUS CURRICULAR MATTERS
Special Educational Needs (SEN)
Outside Agencies
Health Education and PHSCE
Moral Education (inc collective worship and assemblies)
Educational Visits
Equal Opportunities
Extra Curricular Activities
Role of Pupils in School
PARENTS AND COMMUNICATION
Links with Parents
Your role in your child’s progress
Parental help in school
Littleborough PTFA
Parents and the Governing Body
Pre-School / After school care
Access to Public Documents
Homework
Charging and remissions
Concerns
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POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
School Discipline & Pastoral care
Rewards and sanctions
Incident Forms
Playtimes & Lunchtimes
Attendance & Punctuality
 School sessions
 Arrival at School
 Departure from School
Visitors
Disabled Access
Security
Illness during school hours
Medicines in School
Absences, Appointments, Collection of pupils
Holidays
Change of home circumstances
School Meals
School Uniform
P.E. Kit
Swimming
Jewellery
Personal Property on School Premises
Other Health & Safety issues
 Smoking, Toys, Games, Sweets.
Acknowledgements
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INTRODUCTION
WELCOME TO LITTLEBOROUGH
Dear Parent,
This prospectus will give you an introduction to the life of Littleborough Community
Primary School. To find out more pay us a visit, talk to me, to staff or to parents who
already have children at the school.
Your child’s education is a partnership between home and school; the more the parents
and teachers work together the more positive the child’s attitude and the more success
he/she will enjoy. We will remain committed throughout the primary years to your
child’s welfare and happiness and the pursuit of the highest standards of achievements,
both in and out of the classroom.
What the pupils think:
“I think this school is the best primary for miles
around…………….the best in Britain”
Matthew Rigby
Eliss Mushtaq/Matthew Rigby
“The school’s excellent. It is so good I’d even secretly
come at the weekend!”
Kieran Webster
“It isn’t a good school it’s a fantastic one! Fun lessons
in every subject!”
Helen Greenwood
“Our school is clean healthy and safe and lots of
fun…….it’s great because there are lots of
activities and clubsyyou can join.”
Josh Browne and Kiernan Stott
“I like this school because there are no bullies and if
there are the teachers and Borough Buddies sort it out”
Charlotte Coupe
“…………they help people and make you feel safe
Danielle Irvine
“………….everyone is very kind and makes you feel
welcome
Hayley Beaumont
5
“…… and there is always someone there to help
whenever you need it.”
Eleanor Beaumont
“This school is bully free.”
Sophia Rossi
For example –
“The teachers are really kind……..”
“….friendly and will sort out your problems.”
“….make you feel welcome”
“…..always prepared and very organised”
“…..lovely, helpful fun and believe in you”
….. are very good at teaching-committed.”
Jordan Harrison
Hannah Yeomans
Oliver Haworth
Hannah Kenworthy
Susannah Moore
Matthew Rigg
“We have a healthy food tuckshop which provides fruit and juice run by the
School Council.”
Jordan Lawson
“The lunch ladies make tasty food.”
Alisha Slough
“I think the Sports facilities are great…..”
Katie Gibson
“…..and you can do lots of great sports like cricket,
rounders, football and netball.”
Joshua Luke
“We have a great sporting reputation.”
Mason Gill
“I really enjoy the school plays – you can be in the choir or act on stage as a
character or dancer.”
Kate Bouchier
“Our school has facilities that other schools dream of……..
Nathan Canham
“………Science lab, library/ICT suite and interactive whiteboards in every
classroom.”
Lucy Copp
“I like best the residential field trips to Scotland and Whitby. We have loads of
fun and learn a lot too!”
Sophie Bell
“I can’t wait to go!”
Joe Bleakley
“The work is a bit of a challenge …….”
Robyn Chicot
“The Brass Band is one of our specialities.”
Ellie Coulter
“Learning a second language is fun and challenging.”
Alex Fletcher
“Gardening Club helps the school environment a lot.”
Joe Irvine
“I like the activities and equipment available for playtimes.”
Caleb Molyneux
We would be most pleased to receive constructive comments on the format of our
prospectus and the information it contains.
Yours Sincerely
Jim Hollingworth
(Headteacher)
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SCHOOL ETHOS
Our school seeks to provide an open, warm and caring environment forming a
partnership between parents, teachers, children and the community. Each child’s skills
and abilities are valued and developed to their full potential. We have high expectations
of every child, irrespective of ability, race or gender.
All children are encouraged to understand that they have a responsibility to themselves,
each other, their families, the school, and the community. We ask for and expect the
highest standards of work and behaviour by celebrating achievement and through a
clear code of conduct.
We believe that our partnership with you will ensure that your children will develop into
confident, independent and co-operative individuals, with all the skills, concepts
attitudes necessary to achieve success in later life.
MISSION STATEMENT
To keep our school a happy and caring place…………
Children will promise;
We will all have good manners and be polite to everyone.
We will be kind to people in school and in the playground.
We will never fight or hurt someone else.
We will help others if they fall over or cannot do their work,
when they are sad and have no one to play with.
We will always do what the teachers and dinner ladies say.
We will listen carefully to our teacher,
work hard and keep the classroom tidy.
We will be given credits and certificates for good work
and behaviour.
We will keep school tidy and walk on the left.
Adults will Promise;
We will listen to all children:
We will value what every child knows and can do.
We will expect every child to do their best,
no matter how clever they are,
whether they are a boy or a girl,
LCPS
or what religion or race they are.
We will help every child to be confident,
independent and helpful.
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OUR ACHIEVEMENTS
Littleborough Community Primary School takes great pride in its current achievements
and planned programme of future development. The whole school community (staff,
pupils, governors and parents) have worked together to achieve the following
prestigious awards:
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School achievement awards in 2001 and 2002 for pupil achievements
Investors in People award in 2001 and its renewal in 2004 and 2007
Healthy School status in 2004/2005/2006
Princess Diana – anti-bullying award in 2005/2006
Quality Mark in 2007
These all provide the school with an excellent base for our future development and
continued success.
LITTLEBOROUGH COMMUNITY PRIMARY SCHOOL
Littleborough Community Primary School is a 2 form entry (60 places per year group)
Primary school with a 52 place nursery. It is part of a unique campus which offers
unrivalled opportunities for our children and the local community. One third of the site
includes Community Leisure and Education Services which provides facilities for over
2000 people a week of all ages.
The buildings and facilities have undergone extensive remodelling and development.
This has involved new signs, re-designed reception class, expanded car parking and
new facilities in the courtyard and early year’s outdoor learning area. The school’s
extensive hard surface play areas and main car park have been completely resurfaced
and an attractive mural by Wardle High School painted on the gymnasium wall. New
storage areas have been created for the increased provision play equipment for breaks
and lunchtimes as part of the refurbished staircases. Significant investments have been
made in completely refurbished toilets, drinking facilities and replacement doors and
windows. Our facilities are unrivalled within the East Rochdale/Pennine area and
include:
 A fully equipped stage with lighting
 Hall capable of hosting audiences of up to 200 people
 Modernised dining room and school kitchen
 Extensive school library/ICT suite with static and laptop computers
 Purpose built SHOKK workout gym for 8-14 year olds
 Large multi - purpose sports hall with adjoining squash court
 Modernised gymnasium
 Interactive Whiteboards and computers in every classroom
 Dark/TV room with tiered seating for up to 60 children
 Purpose built outdoor learning areas for Nursery and Reception pupils
 Science room
 Full disabled access with lift
 Secure environment protected by alarms, CCTV cameras, internally controlled
main entrance
 Accessible re-furbished toilets for children and adults
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Although the school operates separately from the other site users, we work closely
together to ensure that the children are provided with the wide-ranging educational
experiences and support offered on site. Continuity of provision in the early years is of
special priority and the school has firmly established links with the Children’s Centre
and other on-site community organisations including:
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Littleborough Families Association
Before and after school care clubs
Holiday care clubs and sports courses
Scamps Playgroup
We are proud of our school and are committed to its further development. We welcome
visitors at any time who wish to be shown around the building. Please do not hesitate to
ring up for an appointment.
STARTING SCHOOL
Children are admitted to the nursery in September of the school year in which they are
four years old. Pupils who have enjoyed a different pre-school experience at home or in
other nurseries and playgroups should apply for September admission to the reception
year of the primary school the following year. These sessions are organised as follows:
9am – 12pm
12.30pm – 3.25pm
Morning Nursery session
Afternoon Nursery session
Both sessions offer wrap around care facilities at the Breakfast and luncheon clubs
(please see INSERT in the information pack)
Parents are most welcome to visit the school at any time regarding the entry of their
child, just telephone for an appointment. In the summer term preceding entry, parents
and children are invited to a Foundation Stage Presentation evening at which they are
given opportunities to meet staff, find out more about the school and become familiar
with their new surroundings.
Where possible we try to visit children in their own pre-school educational environment
to ensure smooth, supportive transition arrangements. This liaison enables us to be
aware of the personal needs of individual pupils and organise additional transitional
meetings and school visits as the situation demands.
On starting school in their reception class children come initially for a half day which is
spread over a period of two weeks. This enables the teacher to talk to new parents and
children individually, and helps the child adjust to the large numbers of new children.
When your child has settled then he/she will stay for the full day.
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TRANSITION FROM HOME TO SCHOOL
HOW CAN YOU HELP
Your child will adjust and settle down much better if he/she:
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Is independent in toilet training and knows how to was their hands.
Has sufficient language to ask questions and communicate their needs/feelings.
Is used to short spells of concentration and follow simple rules and routines.
Has been introduced to books and their care.
Has become familiar (and know their parents have become familiar) with their
class teacher and new surroundings.
Recognises their own name and belongings.
Can look after his/her own possessions.
Can dress/undress with minimum help.
As a result of these abilities they will be more confident in their relationships with other
children and adults. They will be aware of other people and the immediate
environment. They will be able to communicate with both children and adults and will
be used to talking and listening and being read to.
Please put your child’s name on everything they may bring to school.
NURSERY
Parents may find details of the curriculum and facilities on offer in the Early Years
section of the booklet. Advice on how parents may support their child’s learning as they
start school may be found in the enclosed booklet “Supporting Young Children’s
Learning”.
ADMISSIONS
Nursery Admission 2008
If your child was born between 2004 and 2005, you may apply for a place in a School
Nursery for him or her.
For Littleborough Community Primary School Nursery you have until the 1st December
2007 to make an application, and to return the completed form to the school office.
After this date, the process of allocation of places will begin, and any late requests for
places will not be considered until the first offer of places has been made.
There are 52 half-time Nursery places available in September 2008. If the number of
applicants does not exceed this number, then all applicants will be admitted.
The LEA Nursery Admissions Policy is based on proximity and need. Please enquire at
the school office for further details.
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Primary Admission
Children are admitted into school in the September of the school year in which their fifth
birthday falls. It is important to register your child's name at the school early in the
academic year before your child is due to begin school.
Parents are welcome to visit the school at any time, and we hold an Open Afternoon in
the Autumn Term for prospective parents and their children to see the school in action!
In the Summer Term before entry, parents are invited to a meeting with the relevant
members of staff to discuss their child's admission into school. Parents and children are
also invited into school on a number of occasions, which includes an invitation, to stay
for lunch one day, and sample the delights of school dinners!
On starting school, children come initially for half a day for the first 7 to 10 days. This
enables the teacher to talk to you and your child individually, and helps them to adjust to
the larger groups of new children and the new environment.
When your child has settled, they will be able to stay for the full day.
Allocations of places for the school are determined by the Education Department on the
basis of: i)
Medical/Psychological Grounds
If you intend to seek priority on these grounds a medical note from the child's own
Doctor must be submitted at the time of application. When this is received the case will
be referred to either the Consultant Community Paediatrician or the Principal
Educational Psychologist for professional advice. If medical grounds are claimed after
the allocation procedure has been completed it may not be possible to allocate a priority
place using this criterion.
ii)
Sibling Priority
Children who have an older brother or sister attending the school at the time of
application.
iii) Proximity and Ease of Access
After priority cases, the remaining pupils will be allocated places according
to the relative proximity and ease of access to the school. When the
school is full any remaining 'first preference' pupils will be placed on
the list of their next preference and will rank for equal consideration
with children whose parents have made it their first preference.
Infant and Junior Department Admissions
Some children transfer into the school at later stages. The arrangements are similar please notify school as soon as possible to discuss the proposed entry and arrange a
visit for yourself and your child to see around school.
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CURRICULUM ORGANISATION AND TEACHING METHODS
Our staff work together as a team in all aspects of school life, using a range of teaching
strategies depending on the task to be learned. This involves a balanced mixture of
whole class teaching, assisted by a high quality team of support staff, who contribute to
the planning and delivery of lessons.
Most subjects are taught through mixed ability groups, which may be varied according
to the pupils’ learning needs. However, as the children develop, they will be taught in
ability groups for the basic subjects of English and Mathematics, receiving appropriately
planned and differentiated work.
We believe that children learn best by doing and, therefore, try to provide practical,
relevant and first hand experiences wherever possible. Frequently this may involve
bringing in outside specialists to assist with the tuition or visits out of school into the
local community or further a field.
CLASS STRUCTURE
The classes at Littleborough Community Primary are structured into Key stages as
follows;
Age of majority at
the end of the
academic year
5
Early Years
Reception
1 and 2
Key Stage 1
Year 1
3 and 4
6
Year 2
5 and 6
7
Age of majority at
end of academic
year
KEY STAGE 2
Year 3
7 and 8
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Year 4
9 and 10
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Year 5
11 and 12
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Year 6
13 and 14
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EARLY YEARS – FOUNDATION STAGE
The Early Years is a distinctive key stage within the school organisation which is called
The Foundation Stage and includes nursery and reception. The Early Years Coordinator
represents the Foundation Stage on the Senior Management Team.
Early Years facilities are situated on the ground floor of the building. The spacious
Nursery is divided into six areas of learning. In addition, there is a small teacher’s office
which doubles as a quiet room for circle time and TV. There is a kitchen, sluice room,
remodelled toilets, cold water dispenser and an outdoor play area with storage
containers. There are 52 part time places in Nursery with one teacher and one nursery
nurse.
The Reception Unit consists of 2 large rooms with large carpeted areas. They have
been remodelled with increased learning space and a new entrance exclusive to
Reception children. A purpose built outdoor learning environment with a large canopy
has been constructed to enable free flow learning activities throughout the day.
Reception children are organised into two classes and alternate between the two
rooms. There are 60 full time places in Reception with 2 teachers and two full time
classroom assistants.
Additional support is available for Early Years children with special needs who have a
statement of special educational needs.
During the summer term children who will enter Nursery and Reception the following
September are invited into school for induction sessions.
The Nursery and Reception learning environments are arranged into distinctive areas of
learning each offering opportunity for child initiated and teacher directed activities. The
provision is based upon an understanding of age-appropriate activities based upon play,
talk and first hand experiences with opportunity for exploration and investigation. Staff
engage with children upon directed, differentiated tasks with individuals and small
groups to encourage skill development in all curriculum areas. There are whole group
sessions for register, topic input, circle time and story times and also smaller groups for
story and discussion.
Detailed assessments are made of each child during the Foundation Stage creating an
ongoing, individual Profile of ability and attainment. Each pupil’s progress is shared in
depth with parents during individual termly consultation meetings.
CLASSROOM ORGANISATION – NURSERY AND RECEPTION
Reading/Listening Area -
provision includes information books and
a listening centre, magazines, home
made books. Each half term the books
are changed to support half termly topic
work.
Writing Area -
children select from a range of writing materials
including white boards and markers
Maths Area -
table top with space for floor activities using a variety
of practical resources
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Imaginative Play Area –
provision for table top and carpet activities which
includes large and small construction materials
Role Play Areas –
role play areas support topic planning and are
changed each half term
ICT Area-
The Nursery and Reception classes have
an Interactive Whiteboard installed to
support teaching of the curriculum
across all areas of learning. PCs are
linked to the internet. A selection of
age appropriate software is constantly
updated according to ICT policy. A Ladybird ,
(programmable toy) is available to use for adult
directed activities in small groups. Nursery children
use a ‘Kidsball’ mouse device and a ‘Big Keys’
children’s keyboard. The Reception class has a
purpose built suite of three computers with Keyboards
adapted for use by young children.
Construction Area–
provision for table top and carpet includes large and
small construction materials.
Creative Area -
provision includes a tray for water and
another for sand or other materials,
painting and craft activities and a
separate area for malleable materials,
cutting and sticking activities.
In addition there are table top activities each day to promote fine motor skills and/ or
observation and investigation.
NATIONAL LITERACY AND NUMERACY STRATEGIES
Literacy teaching in Reception incorporates story work, phonic/word work and plenary
sessions. Small group work for literacy and numeracy is differentiated according to
ability and includes teacher directed and child directed activities.
EARLY YEARS OUTSIDE PLAY FACILITIES
Nursery and Reception children have access to their own secure outdoor play area.
This area offers:
1. a natural grassed area,
2. a designated space for climbing and balancing with fixed climbing equipment and
a safe soft surface,
3. an area for either wheeled toys or balls,
4. covered area with adjacent space for imaginative and creative play.
In addition to the playtimes specified earlier, Nursery and Reception children use this
area to extend the curriculum outdoors; weather permitting.
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PARTNERSHIP WITH PARENTS/ COMMUNITY LINKS
We are proud to have closer links with the new Sure Start Children’s Centre and
Littleborough Families Association (LFA) to support local families, reduce social
exclusion and increase opportunities for families. Training opportunities for parents are
being developed with Sure Start in the Children’s Centre. A Reception Teacher works
with parents and toddlers in the Children’s Centre for ‘Stay and Play’ sessions. Training
for parents and other Early Years providers has been offered in school.
Parents are invited to offer voluntary assistance in Nursery and Reception as they are
throughout school. Parents are kept fully informed about the curriculum and school
events through displays in the Nursery and reception Unit, letters to parents and
newsletters.
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THE NATIONAL CURRICULUM
The National Curriculum is the minimum entitlement of all pupils aged 5-16. It consists
of the core subjects of English, Mathematics and Science and the foundation subjects of
Design and Technology, ICT, History, Geography, Art, Music, P.E/Games/Movement
and Religious Education.
The revised framework for the core subjects of Mathematics and English facilitates
varied flexible teaching methods for the daily lessons,which are differentiated for ability
groups. As your child develops, the skills learned are readily applied across the whole
curriculum.
The Foundation subjects are taught as topics which cover the National Curriculum
Attainment Targets and are carefully planned to ensure continuity and progression.
These topics are largely science or history based, and are taught in such a way that the
knowledge and skills the children are learning can be applied to real and relevant
situations.
Assessment, Recording and Reporting
Your child's progress will be kept under review through regular assessment
opportunities by their teacher. These are recorded, particularly in the Core subjects, at
least termly.
Every child has a Record of Achievement, the aims of which are to motivate the child by
celebrating success, and to give pupils, teachers and parents clear and up to date
information on the achievements and abilities of the whole child, both in and out of
school.
Progress in the Core Subjects is subject to statutory assessment during
the Summer Term at the ages of 7 (year 2) and 11 (year 6). These results
are recorded on the children's Annual Reports for these age groups only.
Each subject is monitored internally and reported annually. At the end of
each Key stage (at ages 7 and 11) Maths, English and Science are assessed: By
means of Teacher Assessment at the age of 7 and nationally standardised external
assessment tests and teacher’s own evaluations at the age of 11, the results of which
are reported nationally and locally and are available on request. The school also
undertakes similar assessments for Y3, Y4 and Y5 to measure both individual and class
group progress. Assessments are used to set termly targets in maths and literacy for
each child, which are communicated to parents to further their understanding of their
child’s learning. Parent consultation evenings to discuss individual pupil progress are
held termly.
THE NATIONAL CURRICULUM SUBJECTS
English
The ability to communicate is at the heart of the English curriculum;
Speaking and Listening, Reading, Writing, Handwriting and Spelling are the main
aspects of the English curriculum, which is taught during the daily Literacy lesson.
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Children are encouraged to speak clearly in a variety of situations and develop auditory
skills through listening to stories, instructions, whole class
discussions and circle time.
As in any primary school, reading is of special importance. We
will teach children to love books, with your help. We try to
provide wide reading experiences through school, class and
local libraries, visiting book fairs, paired reading with adult
support staff and helpers and “story times” with teachers. Each
child visits the extensive school library once a week and the
acquisition of new attractive reading materials remains a
permanent priority. We base our pupils reading development on
Oxford Reading Tree with specifically targeted Guided Reading groups led by the
Teaching assistants through literacy lessons. Teachers use a variety of strategies
which include phonic word-building, learning a sight vocabulary of key words and using
the context and pictures to aid understanding. Reading with your child every day,
whether hearing them read or sharing a book, is vital to reinforce its significance as the
foundation stone of learning.
Your child will be encouraged to write for many purposes, as well as being taught
correct letter formation, grammar, punctuation and spelling. Children are often given
spellings to learn at home which you can help them with.
Mathematics
Each child will receive a thorough grounding in mathematics through skilfully planned
daily lessons and wide ranging first – hand experiences.
Your children will learn about calculation, shape, space and measure, handling data and
number facts/relationships. Children will be encouraged to learn number bonds and
times tables. Great value is also placed on investigative work which helps the children
to use and apply what they have learnt.
ICT plays a vital role, as an aid to learning through the use of Interactive Whiteboards
and various computer programmes. As in English, staff are committed to providing,
contemporary teaching methods and resources and use varied maths games, activities
and materials developed through course attendance and sharing ideas with colleagues.
Science
Our aim in Science is to develop an inquiring mind through practical hands-on,
investigative activities. We aim to develop and extend children’s acquisition of the
important scientific skills of hypothesising, fair testing, recording and evaluation. Each
year group follows the National Curriculum within a topic based curriculum which is well
resourced and regularly maintained and updated. Older pupils base their learning in a
dedicated appropriately equipped Science room in the lower floor of the Learn Local
block.
Technology including ICT
From entering school, children develop their technological and computer skills through a
variety of modern resources. These include;
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Computer suite – with all computers fully upgraded onto Windows XP. All
computers are networked and all KS2 children have an email address.
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At least one computer in every classroom with an Interactive Whiteboard
A mobile trolley with a battery of lap-tops for classroom use
Interactive whiteboards
PowerPoint projector/LCD projector
School website/internet access
Printers
VCR/CD/DVD recorders
Listening suite with earphones
CD ROMS and a wide variety of software.
Dictaphone
Intel Microscopes
The school aims to teach children basic technological skills in order to cope with the
increasing emphasis on science and technology in today’s society. Such skills as word
processing, database work, spreadsheets and graphics are applied across the
curriculum through thematic and project work and to support learning in Maths and
English.
Internet Access Policy
The school has a detailed Internet Access Policy available on request. The staff have
been appropriately trained in the use of the Internet and every practical measure has
been taken, both by the school and the LEA, to ensure that children do not encounter
inappropriate or offensive material. These Include:
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Supervised pupil access at all times
Pre-selected sites for pupil use with agreed search plans
Use of LEA designated ‘filtering’ system
Teaching of responsible use of E-Mail activities etc. including informing the
teacher immediately in uncomfortable material is encountered
Regularly updated “virus” protection.
The Creative Arts including Music
Littleborough attaches great importance to the participation in and enjoyment of the arts
in its many varied forms, by all our pupils. The fostering of individual creative, talents
and the provision of opportunities for self expression are important in the
development of a child’s social skills, self confidence and a positive attitude
to school life, helping to boost achievement in other areas of the
curriculum. Art, crafts, music, dance, drama and literature are
developed through classroom and extra-curricular activities. Children’s
achievements are recognised through varied classroom and communal display areas,
featuring examples of especially striking art work.
There are many opportunities for the children to develop their musical talents. We hold
weekly singing practices and there is a choir at which participation is voluntary.
There are opportunities to listen to music, perform and compose using a variety of
instruments. Many children in KS2 join the choir or Recorder groups.
We have a flourishing Brass Band which is subsidised from school funds, which all
children in Years 4, 5 and 6 may join. There is a charge made to join this Band,
however, to help to pay for the hire of the instrument and the specialist peripatetic
music teachers. At present the charge is £3 per week, which is excellent value.
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Whilst we do not stop children from joining in the lessons if they have not paid,
protracted non-payment places the lessons in jeopardy. Along with the choir and other
groups, the band has represented the school at the Rochdale Music Festival and other
local concerts with great success over several years. Pupils’ experiences of the arts are
enhanced through visiting musicians, artists and theatre groups and educational visits
have been organised to prestigious local concerts and theatres to see plays and
pantomimes. The performing arts are celebrated with parents through the annual
Christmas shows and our summer music concerts.
History
Children will be taught that history surrounds them all the time; concepts like 'yesterday',
and 'last week' become comparisons between 'last year' and 'last century'. They will
learn about the history of their own environment as well as ancient civilisations.
Geography
Children's learning will include the study of weather, climate, population, resources,
mapping and fieldwork.
Once a year, years 5 and 6 children have the opportunity to spend an
educational week away from home. Outdoor pursuits, geography,
nature study, history etc all come alive in this exciting week. Children
who prefer not to go will have the opportunity of a home based Activity
Week.
PE and Games
Each child is provided with the opportunity to participate in at least 2 hours of quality PE
each week. This forms a vital part of our children's development. In the early years and
KS1 the children learn skills, body awareness and control. In the later years the
children can hone these skills through playing organised sports.
Swimming is a vital part of our fitness policies although unfortunately it is restricted to
Year 4 children for financial reasons. The costs of swimming tuition at Todmorden
Baths are paid from the school budget. Catch up sessions are available for Year 5
children who may require further development of their basic skills and confidence.
Sports Policy Statement
At Littleborough we are privileged to have exceptional sporting facilities. We aim to
offer every child the opportunity to take part in a wide variety of sports through both the
PE Curriculum and the extra-curricular programme. We are currently participating in the
Schools Sports Partnership initiative, linking with specialist secondary schools to
provide quality coaching in a variety of sports.
We aim to encourage them to develop a healthy and energetic approach to life, and the
ability to work as part of a team. We enter boys, girls and mixed teams in a variety of
inter school tournaments to develop healthy and balanced attitudes to competitive
sports.
We also aim to develop respect and care for self and others. Children will
be taught to know and apply accepted techniques for learning an activity.
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Tasks will be differentiated and ensure that individual pupils are sufficiently mature and
physically able to cope with a variety of sporting skills and challenges.
The physical education curriculum and extra-curricular programme both
require the duty of care of teachers and specialist coaches and provide
opportunities to involve young people in safety matters. Principles of Safe
practice are significant in underpinning the tasks and challenges of daily
living.
Safety is a cross-curricular theme but is most effectively
demonstrated and applied to sports education.
Pupils have the opportunity to take part in football, netball, rounders, swimming, tennis,
cricket, dance, athletics, gymnastics, hockey, rugby and badminton.
MISCELLANEOUS CURRICULAR MATTERS
Special Educational Needs (S.E.N.)
Littleborough Primary School has developed a Special Needs Policy together with
teachers, Governors and parents. Our arrangements ensure that the Local Authority
Code of Practice, which is based on the current legislation, is fully complied with.
Our policy aims to:
1. Develop the potential of children with S.E.N. within provision that is organised to
ensure they have access to a broad and balanced curriculum.
2. Establish procedures that identify, assess, develop and monitor the individual needs
of children.
3. To establish a clear framework for partnership with parents and support agencies.
Children with S.E.N will generally work alongside their classmates on work which has
been adapted to ensure that they have access to the curriculum. They will be given
Individual Educational Programmes based on a careful assessment of their needs in
partnership with the parents.
Regular reviews are held of their progress to which parents are invited.
On occasion pupils will be withdrawn to work on these programmes with a teaching
assistant. This may be part of a small group, or with one to one support. When
specialised programmes are used, staff have received appropriate training.
Booster
class lessons are available to Y6 pupils to assist them in preparation for their Standard
Assessment Tests (SATS).
PUPILS WITH DISABILITIES
We welcome and work towards meeting the needs of all children who would like to
come to our school.
We are an inclusive school able to meet the needs of children with a wide range of
additional needs. All staff receive regular training to update their knowledge and skills.
We also benefit from the range of specialists available through both the Rochdale
Additional Needs team and Health Service. Some adaptations have taken place in
order to improve access for children with disabilities. The school, in accordance with
Legal requirements, has an Accessibility plan in which we look towards improving our
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provision for children with additional needs. Some facilities are already available. It
would be important to assess the needs of individual children in order to consider what
further adaptation would be necessary to support their inclusion.
In cases where a child has Additional Needs we recognise the benefits of a smooth
transition into our school. In order to do this we encourage parents to share with us the
details of their child’s needs as early as possible, to assist us in planning for their child’s
integration. On occasions it is of benefit for a child to visit the school more frequently
with a known adult to support the establishment of relationships with the staff and to
enable the staff to gain a better understanding of the child. On other occasions it is
helpful for a member of our staff to visit a child in a familiar setting enabling them to
adopt some familiar routines.
In cases where a child has a medical need which requires either medication to be given
at school or for the child to be toileted, then a medical plan is written, usually in
conjunction with the child’s doctors and parents.
ACCESS
The school is built on two different levels which may be accessed by stairs or lift.
Externally, there are separate entrances for the office, gymnasium, nursery, reception,
Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 pupils onto the ground floor. All are accessible by
wheelchair or pupils with walking difficulties. The hall may be accessed from the first
floor by steps or a mechanical hoist which is suitable for wheelchairs. There is a rear
entrance, reached via a ramp from the community car park, which enables easy access
to the hall. The new Sports Centre Car Park provides access for disabled users to the
Sports Hall via ramps with supporting handrails. We have an escape chair to ensure
the safety of wheelchair users when they are on the first floor. Several members of staff
have been trained to use the chair and regularly practice with a ‘passenger’.
OUTSIDE AGENCIES
The school liaises regularly with other agencies which may be called upon to give
specific individual support and advice. These include Rochdale Additional Needs
Service, Education Welfare Service, English Language Support Service, Schools’
Psychological Service, Hearing Impaired Service, Speech Therapy, Social Services and
Community Police.
Regular Visits are made to school by the area Health
Authority, the School Nurse and Dental Officer. All children
are given a full medical examination in school and have their
hearing and eyesight tested. The height and weights of Y6
pupils are measured before they leave. If you require further
information about these services please contact the head
teacher.
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Health Education and PHSCE
Children will be taught about the importance of knowing and looking after their bodies.
They will also be taught about diet, nutrition, public health and personal safety.
The school has a sex education policy which seeks to place knowledge about our
bodies, relationships, personal safety and hygiene in the context of a whole school
Health Policy.
PHSCE is included in the curriculum and subjects covered include Drugs Education.
We have worked with health professionals, parents, teachers and governors to ensure
that we have policies in school which reflect the wishes of our parents and the needs of
their children. We are delighted that our extensive work in this field first resulted in the
award of “Healthy Schools Status” in May 2004, re-affirmed for the third successive
year, 2006 until 2009. Pupils and staff are committed to eradicating bullying in its many
forms. Our School Council and Borough Buddies have gained the prestigious Princess
Diana Memorial Trust Anti-Bullying award for their outstanding work in this field.
Parents are welcome to come into school to view the resources we use and the
schemes of work, and are at liberty to withdraw their child from sex education if they so
wish.
On particular topics we may use outside specialists, ensuring that their contributions are
consistent with the governing body's overall policy and statutory requirements. Sex
education generally is spread across different programmes, such as Science and
English, particularly in the early years. On occasion it may be more appropriate for it to
form a discrete element of the curriculum.
Moral Education (inc Collective Worship and Assemblies)
This includes the compulsory element of Religious Education and Collective Worship,
equal opportunities, multicultural education and personal and social education.
Religious Education includes the study of Christianity as well as major world
religions, with the aim of encouraging tolerance and understanding, through
knowledge of the principles and practices of the major religions.
We hold a daily act of worship during which the aim is to encourage the
development of personal beliefs, relationships, creativity, feelings, emotions
and responsibilities through a variety of methods.
This involves telling Bible stories and stories from other religions, class assemblies,
discussing certain moral themes on which the children are invited to present little plays,
BBC Radio Broadcasts, celebrating achievement both in and out of school and the
occasional use of guest speakers.
Children are expected to enter and leave assemblies quietly as a mark of respect and
quiet reflection.
On Mondays and Fridays the children all have assembly together. For the remainder of
the week the Infants have a separate assembly. In Key Stage 2, class assemblies are
held on Thursdays. Children share their learning with their peers, with parents invited to
share the occasion. Friday’s assembly is a Good Work assembly and all teachers, and
parents if they wish, are invited to attend. Parents are at liberty to withdraw they child
from assemblies if they so wish, but are advised to consult with the headteacher before
doing so.
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EDUCATIONAL VISITS
Throughout the year we often arrange educational visits in connection with work being
carried out in school, to give the children a better, deeper understanding of the topic.
These are not “pleasure trips” but working visits and we seek your support for these
ventures. Ample notice is given of such events so that necessary voluntary payments
can be made well in advance – either in a lump sum or by instalments.
Y5/Y6 pupils enjoy a 6 day residential course, alternating between Whitby in North
Yorkshire and Aviemore in Scotland. The main emphasis is on outdoor activities such
as walking. The party is led by two experienced members of staff, accompanied by
volunteer teachers and other professionals.
Coaches when required are supplied by firms on the approved
Local Authority list.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES
The school is fully committed to equal opportunities for all its children. Our teaching
methods and organisation are designed to give them access to the whole curriculum in
such a way that best suits their individual needs. We promote a happy, caring
environment within which individuals have the opportunity to succeed.
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EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Many elements of the curriculum extend into extra curricular activities for interested
pupils. At the present time these include:
CHOIR
Choir is open to all KS2 pupils who wish to join and attend regular weekly rehearsals.
In school the choir performs at the Summer and Winter concerts and sings regularly at
local community events and venues – the Rochdale Music Festival, Littleborough Coach
House and local residential homes. Visits to prestigious concerts e.g. Hallé are also
arranged.
RECORDERS
Recorder lessons are held at lunchtimes for beginners and more experienced players.
Skills are used in shows and concerts
FOOTBALL
Older juniors football club after school in Autumn and Spring terms for Y5/6. Two teams
compete in the Pennine 7-a–side league and 5-a-side competitions. The girls compete
in the annual Summer 5-a-side competition and practices are held at lunchtimes after
Easter.
OTHER SPORT
The school enjoys a fine sporting tradition and is committed to providing a wide variety
of sporting activities, learning skills and participating in healthy competition against other
local schools. Coaching and inter-school fixtures are arranged in Athletics, Netball,
Rounders and Kwik-Cricket for older KS2 pupils.
COMPUTER CLUB
Open to KS2 pupils in the Spring term who develop relevant communication skills – i.e.
safe use of Internet, PowerPoint presentation, word processing and touch typing.
GAMES CLUB
The club is supervised by lunchtime welfare staff and the ‘Borough Buddies’ and enjoys
traditional playground and board games.
GARDENING
The club is open to yrs 4, 5 and 6 throughout the year with two after school sessions in
the summer term. Activities include the restoration of the school’s ‘Secret Garden’,
planting seeds, learning about organic gardening and maintaining the vegetable patch.
The club also tends the shrub bed outside the main entrance.
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MODERN LANGUAGES
A Club meets weekly to learn conversational Spanish and the customs, geography and
lifestyle of the country.
SIGN LANGUAGE
The learning of various types of sign language to communicate e.g. for the deaf
PUPILS IN SCHOOL
The School’s Council meets fortnightly with Mrs Tremills to discuss issues of interest to
the pupils. There are ten elected members, one from each class from Y2 upwards.
Suggestions are discussed with the headteacher and used to improve school life. Good
recent examples of the pupil initiatives which are guided by the school council include:
Borough Buddies –
Older pupils trained to support and counsel pupils in the
Playground. Their work in this area combined with the work
of the school council resulted in the prestigious “Princess
Diana Memorial Trust Anti-Bullying Award” in successive
years, 2005 and 2006.
Bully Box -
Operating the ‘box’ where pupils communicate situations in
which they feel under stress and require support.
Non - uniform days -
These are held half termly, the proceeds being used to
supplement school funds.
Playground resources -
Use of a small budget to order play equipment for use at
breaks and lunchtimes.
R.S.P.C.A -
Organising a sale of second hand toys, books and games to
raise money for the R.S.P.C.A.
Talent Show -
Pupils showcase their talents in an annual extravaganza
towards the end of the school year.
Support for Charities -
Organising events and money collection for Red Nose Day,
Unicef appeal.
Cloakroom tidiness award – Pupils work on a rota basis marking the cloakrooms daily
for tidiness. The winning class receives a small trophy.
Travel Plan -
Consultation with the LEA officer about organising healthier
ways of journeying to and from school.
Healthy Lunches -
Consultation with teaching and kitchen staff about how
lunchtimes can best incorporate the “healthy eating” agenda.
Healthy Tuck Shop-
Children are responsible for organising the tuck shop at
break times. They re-stock, sell and then count the money.
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Pupils are also given the responsibility to perform a variety of simple, monitoring jobs
within class and around school to enable them to take an active role in the general well being of the school.
PARENTS AND COMMUNICATION
Links with Parents
At Littleborough Community Primary School, we believe that parents are our partners in
the education of the children. We seek to involve you through the publication of monthly
Newsletters, weekly features in the Rochdale Observer Schools notice board, by
helping in school and by inviting you into school for shows, concerts and other events.
We have erected a parents’ notice board outside the main entrance as a readily visible
source of information.
Your role in your child’s progress
The school has an integrated assessment programme involving the setting of termly
academic targets, extensive profiling and record keeping and an annual detailed report.
Termly parents’ evenings are held to discuss your child’s progress.
Staff are always available to discuss your child’s progress or problems, just make an
informal appointment or pop in at the end of the day. Each child’s progress is
continually monitored, his/her records updated to create an on-going uniform profiling
system throughout the school.
Children’s progress in Maths, English and Science is assessed
annually from Y2 to Y6 through the Standard Assessment Tests
(SATS). The results are published for Y2 and Y6 at the end of the
respective Key Stages.
The transfer to secondary school at 11 is reinforced through
liaison meetings with appropriate staff and visits for both children
and parents to the school of their choice.
In these ways we hope to improve a child’s performance by diagnosing strengths and
weaknesses, giving parents ideas of ways in which they can help and enable them to
play an active, supportive role in their child’s education.
Parental help in school
By coming into school parents provide children with further positive role models and
bring extra skills and knowledge which can only enhance a child’s education.
There are many ways that parents can help in school; helping in the library, hearing
children read, telling stories, accompanying trips, sharing skills with small groups. Many
grandparents have also enjoyed coming into school, helping with woodwork,
needlework, baking, and telling stories about their childhood or war experiences. If you
could help with such activities or have any fresh ideas, please do not hesitate to contact
your child’s class teacher or the Headteacher.
All regular helpers will be asked to fill in a confidential form for security reasons, as a
precautionary measure and will need to be CRB checked for child protection clearance.
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LITTLEBOROUGH PARENT TEACHER AND FRIENDS ASSOCIATION
Dear Parents,
We are an open and welcoming group of parents who, in our own way, try to add to the
life of Littleborough Community Primary School. We hold a variety of events throughout
the year. Socially, we hope to draw in children, staff, parents and friends making
everyone feel part of the School Community.
Fund-raising is also important to supplement school resources and make a positive
contribution to the learning of our pupils. Most functions are a combination of the two,
these include discos, family fun days, fashion shows etc.
We hold meetings on a regular basis and new parents are especially welcome as we
relish new input into our ideas.
Littleborough PTA
PARENTS AND THE GOVERNING BODY
There are six places on the governing body for parent governors and, as with the other
governors, they serve for a period of four years. Other parents may, of course, serve as
co-opted or LEA governors. Indeed at Littleborough Community Primary School most of
our eighteen governors either work or have children in school, an important factor in
developing commitment and unity of purpose.
All parents of children registered at Littleborough Community Primary School are
eligible to nominate, or be nominated, to serve as a governor, subject to certain
conditions which will be published before an election.
All governors meetings are open to the general public, subject to certain exclusions.
The ongoing work of the governors is delegated to three sub committees
(Finance/Resources, Personnel and Curriculum) which meet once or twice per term.
Some governors have a role as a link governor to a particular year group or subject
area.
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ACCESS TO PUBLIC DOCUMENTS
The school has a policy of open access to information regarding school policies and
access to children’s records. The following publications are all on display in the foyer or
available on request from the Headteacher;
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LEA statement on curriculum policy
School statement of curriculum aims, policy documents and schemes of work
DES circulars and memoranda
OFSTED report 2006
LEA complaints procedure
LEA RE syllabus
Copies of the minutes of governors meetings
Headteacher’s termly report to the governing body
School holiday lists
Information about Rochdale Council support and welfare services
Local community education events and information
Copies of school correspondence
Copies of the school prospectus
Events in the local community and on campus
KS1/KS2 SATS results
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Homework Requirements
All pupils are expected to do work at home and a
schedule is attached. We have introduced homework
diaries to help parents support their children. Regular
manageable homework is set for the children as we
consider they work hard enough in school, and need the
time after school to develop outside interests.
However, we do ask that children practise their reading
every day, whether they are learning key words,
practising their reading book or just enjoying a book of
their choice.
Children will be given weekly spellings to learn, particularly in Key Stage 2, as well as
being asked to learn their tables and number bonds. This should just involve a few
minutes practise per night, which inventive parents could
make into a game!
It is important that children should learn to work on their own
on occasions in order to develop self discipline, study skills
and be responsible for their own learning. Please encourage
your child to do any homework well.
Charging and Remission Policy
When an educational visit is to be made, parents will be
informed of the actual cost of the proposed outing and will be
asked for a voluntary contribution. No child will be left out of
an outing because money has not been paid, although a child
may not go on a trip without written parental consent.
Obviously, if the total amount of voluntary contributions does
not cover the cost of the visit then the outing may have to be
cancelled and any monies returned.
Concerns
If you have a problem concerning your child, please contact your child's class teacher in
the first instance. They will be happy to arrange to see you and put your mind at rest.
If however, you still feel that you have a cause for concern, please contact the
Headteacher or Deputy Headteacher. They will be pleased to meet with you to discuss
these concerns and work out a solution.
Parents and others can find out about the arrangements under Section 23 of the
Education Reform Act 1988 for dealing with formal complaints (to the governing body,
the LEA or both) about the curriculum or any related matter by reading the LEA
documents setting out the arrangements. Relevant documents are held in school.
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POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
School Discipline and Pastoral Care
The school aims to be a place which is exciting and stimulating, yet stable and secure.
A place where individual children and their backgrounds are valued, and where success
and high standards are achieved without fear of failure. Above all, a place where happy
and caring relationships between people can grow and our children can develop healthy
positive attitudes to school and other people.
In partnership with the parents, the school will help each child to understand the need to
recognise the rights of others, to accept authority and to obey rules. We will help each
child to show good manners and respect the feelings of others, to look after public
property and the natural world, to reject violence and accept responsibility for
themselves and others in the community.
In order to achieve these aims, the teachers, pupils, governors and Lunchtime
Supervisors have developed a Code of Conduct. It attempts to draw together all the
school rules so that parents, teachers, lunchtime supervisors, Governors and of course
the children, know exactly what is expected of them.
It is expected that parents will back the judgements and authority of the teacher. The
general discipline of the child is the responsibility of the parents and they will be kept in
constant touch if their child is experiencing behaviour problems.
All members of our school community need to be vigilant to ensure that high standards
of safety and supervision are maintained and that the behaviour of children, both in and
out of the classroom is calm, well-mannered and considerate of others.
Rewards
Children are rewarded for their work, achievements, attitude and behaviour through
regular praise and encouragement and a graded system of recognition. Pupils work is
on display throughout the school, in the classrooms, corridors and shared areas. For
work or behaviour which is exceptionally good, for that child, a credit will be given.
Nine Credits will be rewarded by a Bronze Certificate, eighteen by a Silver and twenty
seven by a Gold. Details of the credits awarded are listed on the back of the certificate.
Certificates will be presented in Good Work Assembly on a Friday, where behaviour,
good work and special effort will be highlighted and celebrated.
Children who achieve further credits after the Gold Certificate will be awarded an
Honours Certificate for their years work. Children who achieve an exceptional number
of credits are rewarded with a medal.
Sanctions
Most instances of inappropriate behaviour can be dealt with on the spot by the class
teacher or other member of the adult community. In doing so, the adult should try to
find out what happened and why, before, if necessary, reprimanding the child and
explaining the ways in which improvement can be made.
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Minor infringements are usually punished by loss of free time and privileges. Examples
of such behaviour may be persistent inattention in class, disturbing the work of others
and excessive noise or running in the corridors. Repetition of minor infringements may
result in notification to the Headteacher through an order form.
Incident forms
Unacceptable or serious behavioural incidents are recorded on an incident form.
Examples include: repeated foul, abusive and racist language, persistent bullying,
fighting or aggression, disobedient or rude behaviour to an adult in school i.e. a teacher,
support staff or welfare assistant. The incident is noted in detail, signed by the head or
deputy and a copy sent home by post immediately.
An Incident form may be rescinded by good work or good behaviour. This is particularly
important since we do not start afresh in the new academic year! It is also important as
a means of highlighting the positive aspects of good discipline.
Repeated incidents of unacceptable behaviour warrant close parental involvement in
solving the problems involved with parents being invited into school to discuss the
issues involved. Pupils experiencing such difficulties will usually have their behaviour
monitored closely for a week and the written results shared with the parents.
Playtimes and Lunchtimes
Morning and afternoon breaks are supervised by teachers on a
rota basis, dealing with minor issues which may arise. The school
has a dedicated and experienced team of welfare supervisors
who are responsible for the welfare and safety of the pupils over
the staggered lunch break. The Headteacher or deputy are
available to support the welfare staff during this period, either
being on hand in the dining room or playground or able to
intervene on request. A fully qualified teaching assistant is on
duty throughout the lunch break to deal with pupils requiring basic first aid.
Attendance and Punctuality
Session Times
Nursery Class
Morning Session
9.00 am – 12.00 noon
Afternoon Session 12.30 pm - 3.30 pm
Lunches
12.00 pm – 12.30pm
Infant Department;
9.00 am - 12.00 noon
1.10 pm - 3.25 pm
Junior Department;
9.00 am - 12.30 pm
1.40 pm - 3.30 pm
Children should arrive at school at 8.45am and general supervision by school staff is
organised from 8.45 am until 3.45 pm. Organised school activities, taking place after
school hours, are supervised voluntarily by staff and are, of course, an exception to this
rule. The Authority does not accept any legal responsibility for children arriving at, or
remaining on, school premises outside these times.
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Arrival at School
The bell rings at 8.55 am and the children are brought into school, so that they are
ready to start work at 9.00 am.
If it is raining hard, children may come into the foyers and wait quietly from 8.45 a.m..
Children should line up then stand still and wait for the bell at 8.55 am after which they
should walk into school when their class is called. Children must not run in school but
should keep to the left and walk in an orderly fashion, taking care when moving up or
down the stairs.
Children who arrive late are required to sign in at the school office so that accurate
attendance and dinner registers are maintained. In cases of persistent lateness, the
school will contact parents to see if there are any ways in which support may be
provided. The school maintains regular contact with its designated Education Welfare
Officer (EWO) who is always available to intervene when families/pupils have problems
with attendance and punctuality.
Departure from school
Children depart from school at 3.30pm by one of the four designated pupil entrances.
Parents may wait in the school yard or car park nearby to collect their children. All
parents and pupils are requested to use the paths, gates and correct entrances on
arrival and departure from school. Pupils who are not collected should return to the
main entrance and wait safely in the foyer until their parents arrive.Parents are
requested not to use the staff car park for congestion,access and safety reasons.
Visitors
All visitors must attend the school office first for security reasons. All school and council
personnel will wear an identification tag. Visitors are required to sign the Visitors Book
and collect a visitors tag. Anyone in the building without a tag will be challenged.
Visitors are requested to sign out on departure, important for administrative purposes
and fire regulations.
Disabled Access
There is full disabled access on the site including ramps, lifts, disabled toilets and a
wheelchair lift into the main hall.
Security
There are CCTV cameras stationed at key points of the building covering the whole site.
Access is only through the main entrance which is on a special security system
operated from within school.
Illness During School Hours
There are 6 designated and 8 appointed First Aiders on the staff at this school. If
children are taken ill at school, parents are contacted by telephone and cared for until
their parents arrive to take them home.
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Minor cuts and grazes occurring at break times
are dealt with by 1st Aid trained staff, and at
lunchtime by the Lunchtime Supervisors and a
qualified designated first aider. All accidents that
require treatment (which mainly consists of cold
compresses or the cleaning of cuts) are recorded
in an accident book.
In an emergency, school staff may be required to
accompany a child to hospital and act 'in loco
parentis' until the parent arrives.
Medicines in School
Medicines should not be brought into school by children. In line with the official LEA
policy, teachers and welfare staff are unable to administer them. Arrangements are
easily made for parents or relatives to bring medication to school to give their child at a
mutually agreed time, normally during the lunch break. Please contact the school office
if such a facility is required.
Children who suffer from asthma must have a spare inhaler in school. This will be safely
stored and labelled and the child, teacher and lunchtime supervisors will have
immediate access to it when necessary. Please ensure your child knows how to use
their inhaler.
Absences, Appointments and Collection of Pupils
If your child is absent, please send a note or telephone to let us know the reason for the
absence. If we do not receive an explanation, it will have to be classed as an
unauthorised absence, and will appear as such on your child's report. In cases of
prolonged or persistent absence, we ask the Education Welfare Officer to visit your
home in order to find out why this is happening and what can be done to help.
Your child will be considered fit for all school activities when in
school. If you wish them to be excused from certain physical
activities, please send a note explaining the reasons.
Please let us know about appointments; i.e. dentist, doctor etc.
beforehand so that we can give your child an attendance mark and
make the necessary dinner arrangements.
Children attending medical appointments should be collected from
school, and must be signed in and out of school for security and safety reasons.
If your child is to be collected by anyone other than the person who usually collects
them, school should be notified beforehand for your child's protection.
Holidays
Although holidays during term time are discouraged, there may
be some occasions when family holidays can only be arranged
during term time. If this is unavoidable, written permission is
required from the Headteacher. Without this, the child is
classed as absent without authorisation for the length of the
holiday. The appropriate holiday request forms are available from the school office.
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Change of Home circumstances
Please notify the school administrators of any changes of address, contact numbers or
alteration in family circumstances, it is essential or advisable for us to know.
School Meals
Nutritious school meals are cooked on the premises and should be paid for in advance
each Monday morning. The cost of a school meal is £1.60 per day (£8 per week). The
children are given a choice of a main course and a sweet. Water is provided and
children regularly have the further choice of pure orange juice, vegetarian meals are
always available. A salad bar and other Healthy Eating options are also always
available. Menus are displayed in the dining room on a three week rota basis. If your
child has a special diet please inform the office.
Please send dinner money in on a Monday morning in a sealed envelope clearly
labelled with your child's name and class number or teacher. Cheques are very
welcome and should be made payable to R.M.B.C.
Many children are entitled to free school dinners. For help concerning this issue please
seek the advice of our administrators, Mrs Christine Harrison and Mrs Susanne Smart.
You may prefer your child to bring a packed lunch from home.
Please put these in a named lunch box or container. No glass
bottles or fizzy drinks are allowed. Children who bring their own
lunch are provided with the necessary cutlery and a glass of water if
they have not brought their own drink.
Please give one week’s notice if you wish your child to change from a cooked lunch to
sandwiches, or vice versa.
School Uniform
All children are required to wear school uniform. It is attractive, practical, relatively
cheap and develops a sense of ' belonging' to the school. We can supply you with a list
of stockists, the main one of which is Top Form, Drake Street, Rochdale. Ties are
available from the school secretary. School sweatshirts and fleeces with the school
logo are also available from the school office.
Boys
White shirt or polo shirt, school tie, grey trousers, school jumper, cardigan or sweatshirt
(red with the school logo) or plain red jumper/ sweatshirt.
Girls
White shirt or polo shirt, school tie, grey skirt or pinafore, school jumper, cardigan or
sweatshirt. There is a summer uniform dress of red and white check (also available at
Top Form).
Both boys and girls should wear sensible shoes and socks. Please do not wear fashion
footwear which offers little protection against injury.
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Cloakroom space is adequate but limited. Please ensure that your child's school and
P.E bags are small, as we cannot accommodate the enormous bags that some children
seem to favour.
For safety and security reasons, children should not wear rings, bracelets, necklaces or
earrings. Children with pierced ears may wear a small stud only.
PE Kit
White, black or red T-shirt, white, black or navy shorts/ gym skirt and gym knickers and
black pumps. Please bring PE kit in a pump bag with their name on it. Long hair must
always be tied back and NO JEWELLERY to be worn.
In certain gymnastic type activities bare feet are sometimes more appropriate. Red,
black or navy tracksuits may also be worn for games, if available. Footballers need
boots or training shoes.
Proper clothing and footwear must be worn in all PE and Games lessons for
reasons of Health and Safety.
Swimming
Y4 children attend weekly swimming lessons in the Spring term at Todmorden Baths
which are structured for pupils at varied levels of ability. You will be notified in advance
in order to get your permission for the child to attend. For these sessions, swimwear
and towels are required. These must be clearly labelled.
Jewellery
These notes qualify earlier references to jewellery in other sections of the prospectus.
With the exception of small studded earrings for pierced ears, children must not wear
jewellery at school. It may cause injury to themselves or others. They may be
distressed by the loss of such items such as rings, bracelets etc and teachers cannot be
responsible unless items are brought for a specific purpose. To avoid breakage or loss,
please do not allow your children to bring into school any expensive or treasured
belongings including watches. Occasionally there may be a specific reason to do so, in
which case articles can be left in the care of the teacher.
N.B. There may be circumstances in which the daily removal of items of jewellery (e.g.
small studded earrings) may cause undue discomfort to individual children. Parents
must discuss such concerns with the Headteacher so that a mutually acceptable
solution may be found.
Personal Property on School Premises
Children are responsible for the security of their personal belongings. Since many items
are almost identical to those of other children, it is very important that such items are
clearly marked with your child's name. Bringing surplus money, food, jewellery, toys
and valuables into school should be discouraged.
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Other Health and safety issues
The Governors of Littleborough Community Primary School are responsible for
maintaining safe and healthy working condition for the staff and children at the school.
Smoking
In accordance with LEA policy, the school operates a SMOKE FREE
policy on its premises. Parents are requested to respect this policy when
arriving or calling into school and waiting in the playground to collect
pupils at 3.30pm.
Toys, Games, Sweets
The children may bring a small toy, such as a ball, doll, car, skipping rope or anything
that is not too valuable to play with. Roller boots, Walkmans and electronic games are
not permitted.
Mobile Phones: As a rule, children must not bring mobile phones to school. They are
easily lost or damaged and potentially disruptive to lessons. However, a mobile phone
may be a valuable security item for some children outside school hours, particularly
those who make their own way to and from school. Should any parent consider a
mobile phone to be necessary in such circumstances, they are asked to advise the
school office beforehand. The pupil must leave the phone in the office, clearly labelled,
for the duration of the school day and collect it on departure.
In keeping with our status as a “Healthy Eating” school children are not permitted
to bring sweets, chocolates or snacks into school to eat at playtimes. We feel that
this spoils their appetite and encourages bad eating habits, particularly snacking on junk
food. Consequently,we do not distribute sweets and chocolates as a birthday
celebration for pupils. Parents are encouraged to commemorate such events in school
by donating a book to the school library. A special scroll has been designed for insertion
in the book.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
My sincere thanks are due to all who have contributed to the completion of this
prospectus.
Christine Harrison
Katy Harrison
School Teaching Staff
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