CONTENTS
MEMBERS OF STAFF
MEMBERS OF GOVERNING BODY
MEMBERS OF ST. CATHERINE’S ASSOCIATION COMMITTEE
HEADTEACHER’S WELCOME and School Prayer
ST. CATHERINE’S STATEMENT OF MISSION
SCHOOL HISTORY – Tradition, Context, Location
SCHOOL CONTACT DETAILS
DUTIES OF THE GOVERNING BODY
PASTORAL CARE – Safeguarding Children, Special Needs, Common Good
CURRICULUM –
Religious Education, English, Mathematics, Science, Information and Communication Technology, Extra
Curricular Activities, Educational visits, Assessments, Parent Teacher Consultations and Annual Reports, SATs
published results 2012, Inspection of schools
PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT – Communication, St. Catherine’s Association, Adult help
GENERAL INFORMATION – School Uniform, Jewellery, Mobile phones, Breakfast Club, School Day,
Playground Equipment, Teacher Contact, Home time, Holidays in school time
HEALTHY EATING - Drinks/snacks, School Dinners
POLICIES AND PRACTICE – Equality, Race, Sex and Disability, Racism, Anti Bullying, Internal Acceptable
Use Agreement, Image Consent Form, Advance Parental Permission, Complaints Procedure, Unexpected
Closure
FINANCE - Monies Sent To School, School Development Fund, Charging
HEALTH AND SAFETY - Driveway Policy, Health & Welfare, Medicines, Illness and Absence + Attendances
for last year, School nurse, Head Lice, Accidents in school
APPENDICES
A. RECOGNITION and ACCEPTANCE of the CATHOLIC RELIGIOUS ETHOS (sample)
B. STATEMENTS of MISSION (sample)
C. PERMISSION for EDUCATION WALKS (sample)
D. MAP of CATCHMENT AREA
E. LETTER re ABSENCE for HOLIDAY DURING TERM TIME
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“Live, love and learn joyfully together through Jesus and His Church”.
STAFFING
Ms Pauline Curran (DSP)
Headteacher
Mr Christopher Alger
Teacher
Mr Daniel Atherton
Teacher
Mrs Kirsten Bonnick
Teacher
Mrs Maria Granstrom
Teacher
Mrs Caroline Griffin
Teacher
Miss Nicola Kane (SLT) SENCO
Teacher
Miss Jenny Lee
Teacher
Mr Mark McKew
Teacher
Mrs Stephanie Taylor
Teacher
Mrs Siobhan Togher
Teacher
Mrs Catherine Wildey (SLT)
Teacher
Ms Pat Duggan (SLT) DDSP
School Business Manager
Mrs Ellen Lee
Secretary
Mrs Lesley Duggan
Support Staff
Mrs Kelly Fisher
Support Staff
Mrs Mandy Mc Carthy
Support Staff
Mrs Marie McHugh
Support Staff
Mrs Barbara Metcalfe
Support Staff
Mrs Geri Phipps
Support Staff
Mrs Joan Waugh
Support Staff
Mr Wicks
Support Staff
Miss Jaqui Pestano
Support Staff
Mrs Lisa Carlon
Support Staff
Mrs Sharon Flanagan
Support Staff
Mrs Nicky Pargeter
Support Staff
Mrs Penny Goldsmith
Support Staff
Mrs Dawn Reidy
Support Staff
Mrs Ludmila Williams
Support Staff
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“Live, love and learn joyfully together through Jesus and His Church”.
Mrs Nicola Worrell
Support Staff
Mrs Eileen Robinson
Premises Staff
Mrs Pamela John
Premises Staff
Mrs Pauline John
Premises Staff
GOVERNING BODY
Mr Paul Quinn
Chair & Foundation Governor
Mrs Maggie Davidovitz
Foundation Governor
Mr Mike Pargeter
Foundation Governor
Mrs Mary Duffy
Foundation Governor
Mr Oscar Fernandez
Foundation Governor
Mrs Pat Morton
Foundation Governor
Mrs Patsy Whitham
Vice Chair & Foundation Governor
Ms Pauline Curran
Headteacher & Ex Officio
Mrs Anne-Marie Mc Dermott
Parent Governor
Miss Nicola Kane
Teacher Governor
Ms Pat Duggan
Support Staff Governor
Mr John Conlon
Clerk to the Governors
ST. CATHERINE’S ASSOCIATION COMMITTEE
Treena Massey
Chair
Linda Faulkner
Vice Chair
Adeline Fleming
Treasurer
Marie Tailor
Vice Treasurer
Catherine Mountford
Secretary
Fiona Moring
Vice Secretary
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“Live, love and learn joyfully together through Jesus and His Church”.
HEADTEACHER’S WELCOME
Dear Parents
We are delighted that you have taken this opportunity to look at our Prospectus. If you are unsure of anything,
please do not hesitate to get in touch with the office for clarification, or to make an appointment to visit. There
is no substitute for personal contact and we would encourage you to come to St. Catherine’s and experience its
warm, friendly and caring character and meet our wonderful pupils.
We want our children to experience success and become responsible and respectful citizens. Our highly skilled
and dedicated staff work hard as a team to ensure a happy and positive learning environment, which we trust
will enable pupils to have the self-discipline, confidence and motivation to become lifelong learners. We aim to
deliver a broad, balanced and creative curriculum to meet the needs of pupils, providing support when
needed, as well as extension for our more able children.
We appreciate that parents are the first teachers of their children and education should be a joint venture. When
staff and parents support one another and work closely together, in partnership, this provides the best possible
atmosphere in which each individual child may flourish.
Once you have been offered and accepted a place, you will be invited to a New Parents Meeting. We want
school to be an extension of home life. Staff and governors look forward to welcoming you and your child into
the unique family of St. Catherine’s. We hope your time with us will be memorable and enriching.
At the heart of our Catholic school is its belief in Jesus’ call to fullness of life. We ask for His blessing and
guidance in all that we do together.
God bless
Pauline Curran
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“Live, love and learn joyfully together through Jesus and His Church”.
School Prayer
This is our school,
may peace dwell here.
Let the rooms be full of contentment.
May love abide here;
love of one another;
love of mankind;
love of life itself; and
love of God.
May we remember
that as many hands build a house
so many hearts build a school. Amen.
ST. CATHERINE’S STATEMENT OF MISSION
We ask you to read the following statements very carefully as these have been produced and agreed by staff and
governors as to why St. Catherine’s is a distinctive Catholic School. They guide us in every aspect of school
life. The statements are divided into the following main areas: Community – Our aim is to:
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Live our Mission Statement, “ Live, love and learn joyfully together through Jesus and His
Church” and encourage all to spread the “Good News”;
Nurture the partnership between home, school and parish;
Create an atmosphere of justice and openness for those who work for the well being of the school;
Strengthen and sustain School-Business-Diocesan-Local Education Authority Links and
Promote a tolerance and understanding of all faiths, creeds and minority groups in our society.
Communication and Relationships – Our aim is to:
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Offer involvement, friendship and welcome freely, so there is understanding in all our relationships;
Willingly address concerns and give genuine forgiveness;
Plan opportunities for each person’s role to be fulfilled through guidance and mentoring;
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Understand that all may have their worries and that we are able to share these, if we wish to do so and
Encourage each individual to flourish, knowing that they are valued and cherished.
Worship – Our aim is to:
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Provide opportunities to celebrate, pray, reflect and share together within God’s family;
Develop a balance between knowledge, worship and values in the curriculum;
Recognise, guide and support everyone on their faith journey during their different stages;
Enable pupils to know that they are precious to God and to nurture this close loving relationship and
Help the children to understand that we grow together in the Spirit of the Risen Jesus when we
celebrate and frequent the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Holy Communion.
St. Catherine’s is part of the Parish of Our Lady and St Michael, in Garston, and we do all we can to join
together in celebration. There are occasions when we go to the Church for Mass and at other times the Parish
Priest comes to the school and parents/ parishioners are invited to join us.
St. Catherine’s sees Religious Education as the core and foundation of the entire educational process,
communicating beliefs and values which should inspire and unify every aspect of school life and the curriculum.
It is this which gives St. Catherine’s its distinctive nature as a Catholic School.
Since we regard these as one of the most important school documents, we ask you to read them very carefully
and if offered a place, we will request you to sign Appendix A and B, as an indication that you agree with its
contents and that you will join the staff and governors in doing all you can to support and work with us to
develop this partnership, through open and honest communication. Thank you.
SCHOOL HISTORY
Tradition
St Catherine of Siena Catholic Primary School converted to Academy statues on the 1st July 2012 under the
trusteeship of the diocese of Westminster. It was opened by Dominican Sisters in April 1964. We are blessed by
and grateful for our roots/identity and committed to carrying on the long and proud tradition of our Founders.
St. Catherine of Siena was a remarkable woman who stands out not only in her own historical period (over 600
years ago) but throughout the centuries, up to today. She is the patron saint of Europe, of nurses and the sick.
She died on April 29th 1380 and it is on this date that we celebrate her Feast Day. St. Catherine had a
tremendous zest for life and put all of herself into whatever she undertook – an example to us all. The “Truth”
she was most convinced about was God’s overwhelming love for humanity. Our school badge, with the latin
word for truth, “Veritas” is the Dominican motto and a reminder that we are part of the Dominican family and
called to seek God in our lives.
The Leadership and management team of our school shapes its ethos and vision and is responsible for the
quality of Catholic education we provide. This is translated into every day life and the shared, committed
dedication of the staff. Everything we do is linked to our Mission Statement ‘Live, love and learn joyfully
together through Jesus and His Church’. Each of us has a common sense of belonging and purpose, to motivate
and inspire the pupils entrusted to our care. To this end we strive to develop and provide outstanding
educational experiences to maximise the potential of every child and member of staff.
Context
St Catherine’s has created a warm and friendly atmosphere. The partnership between staff, governors, parents
and pupils is excellent. Everything we do is for our pupils and future generations of children. We place the
child at the centre of the whole educational enterprise. We plan opportunities for pupils to be active participants
in day to day school life and encourage them to engage with others in assuming responsibilities.
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“Live, love and learn joyfully together through Jesus and His Church”.
Our pupils are aged between four and eleven. We are an over-subscribed one form entry school. Currently we
have two hundred and twenty six children on roll – with a waiting list for some classes. Our Published
Admissions Numbers are 30 for KS1 and Reception Class and 34 for KS2. We do our utmost to be inclusive.
Respect for each pupil and his/her learning needs is reflected in the experiences offered at school. Therefore, to
help us to deliver the best service to parents/guardians and/carers. Please bring to the attention of the office staff
any special needs you or your child may have, so we can try to accommodate you.
Location
Our side gate is located on the A405 in Garston, Watford, and we have a pedestrian access there. The main
entrance is off Horseshoe Lane, opposite the Leisure Centre. The school is situated on a campus with three
secondary schools – one of them being our main feeder school, St. Michael’s Catholic High School - with whom
we have forged very close relations. There are extensive playing fields, which include floodlit astro-turf pitches
and several copes.
The school building is large and well resourced. During the summer of 2010, a major building project was
completed and pupils returned to find exciting new play equipment. This afforded all ages and abilities to
interact, challenge themselves, develop and enhance skills and, of course, have fun – all in a safe, durable and
positive learning environment. We take pride in the fact that we provide a stimulating and welcoming setting,
conducive to delivering an enhanced creative curriculum, both indoors and outdoors.
SCHOOL CONTACT DETAILS
Ms Pauline Curran (Headteacher)
Mr Paul Quinn (Chair of Governors)
St Catherine of Siena Catholic Primary School
Horseshoe Lane
Garston
Watford WD25 7HP
Tel: 01923 676022
Fax: 01923 893497
Email admin@st-catherine.herts.sch.uk
Parish Church of Our Lady and St Michael
Crown Rise
Garston
Watford WD25 0NE
01923 673239
Our website contains further pertinent
information (such as term dates and events)
and has useful links. It gives a true insight into
school life and reflects the joy that being part
of this community can bring.
Website: http://www.st-catherine.herts.sch,uk
Archdiocese of Westminster
Vaughan House
46 Francis Street
London SW1P 1QN
Tel: 0171 798 9005
www.ourladyandsaintmichael.org
St. Catherine’s Association
Treena.massey@googlemail.com
www.rcdow.org.uk
DUTIES OF THE GOVERNING BODY
All governors – be they foundation, local authority, parent, staff or associate members – have the responsibility
to uphold the distinctive ethos of our Catholic school. They are responsible for the strategic direction of the
school and along with the Senior Leadership Team shape its vision. They willingly give of their time, bringing
unique skills and expertise, which support us in our drive for school improvement. The Governing Body is
responsible for many other matters, including finance, appointment of staff, personnel, admissions, curriculum,
school policies, discipline, health and safety, repair and maintenance. As a full body, it meets formally at least
twice a term and sub-committee meetings are arranged, on a regular basis, to look after aspects of the above.
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“Live, love and learn joyfully together through Jesus and His Church”.
The duties and functions of Governors are defined in the Instruments and Articles of Government for Schools.
Day to day running of the school is a matter for the Headteacher. If problems with pupils occur, parents should
initially make an appointment to discuss these with the class teacher. If the issue needs to be taken further, they
go through the same process with the Senior Leadership Team and as a last resort with the Chair of Governors.
PASTORAL CARE
Safeguarding Children
The school works in partnership with parents to support children in every way possible. However, the
Children’s Act 1989 places a clear responsibility on schools to ensure that they work together with guidance
from the DCSF and other agencies to safeguard and promote the welfare of all children. As a result, if the
concerns are raised within the school or a child or parent reports a situation involving possible abuse, we cannot
guarantee confidentiality. Schools are legally bound to contact the Child Protection Unit if they believe a child
may be suffering from abuse or neglect, without first contacting the parents. This is in line with Government
and Hertfordshire County Council’s guidelines on Safeguarding.
The Headteacher is the designated person for Safeguarding and in her absence the School Business Manager.
We will be happy to discuss any questions or concerns parents may have about Safeguarding Practice. All staff
have Safeguarding briefings and the majority of staff have attended Safeguarding Courses. This training is
ongoing as we induct new staff.
Special Needs
As a Catholic and caring community, we are all concerned with the effective development of every child.
Classroom based staff are teachers of children with special educational needs. When a child has been assessed
(internally or externally) as having a particular need, a programme is devised and implemented in conjunction
with the class teacher, teaching assistant, special needs co-ordinator, outside agencies (where appropriate) and
parents. Pupils will have an Individual Education Plan (IEP) and are set individual targets. These are closely
monitored and reviewed termly.
The use of the school’s Special Educational Needs register to monitor progress and provision supports this
process. In some situations the advice of Speech Therapists, Education Psychologists Behaviour Support
Workers and others is sought. These professionals should be regarded as an extension of the school staff; they
give valuable help to your children.
A wide range of strategies are implemented to stimulate children with special educational needs. Their teacher
/teaching assistant provide individual or group help as required to ensure that they progress at an appropriate
pace and at their own level. Teaching Assistants are trained and guided by teachers to deliver a high standard of
care. All Special Needs Provision is governed by the Every Child Matters Agenda. A copy of our current
policy for Special Needs is at the end of this Prospectus, Appendix F.
Common Good
The school promotes the Common Good. Inclusion is at the heart of our Mission Statement. The rich diversity
of cultures within our school is positively valued and celebrated. We promote knowledge and understanding of
cultures and faiths other than our own, including welcoming speakers from other faiths. We promote awareness
of global citizenship.
We take every opportunity to involve our children locally. They join in various competitions and sporting
fixtures. There are also visits to and from local services, such as the fire brigade and police. Lower sixth pupils
from St. Michael’s Catholic High School and Parmiter’s School sometimes assist in classrooms. We try to avail
of opportunities to work with the local community. Pupils show their compassion for others by supporting
local, national and international charities.
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“Live, love and learn joyfully together through Jesus and His Church”.
CURRICULUM
Religious Education: Whole school Religious Education provides for a lived faith experience; pupils learn
about and from the Catholic tradition. It is central to our curriculum and permeates every aspect. It is treated as
a core subject. It is taught in accordance with the Curriculum Directory and Diocesan guidelines and inspected
according to their framework. It is closely linked with Personal, Social, Citizenship and Health Education
(PSCHE). Therefore, the removal of a child from the teaching of Religious Education would be impossible to
achieve and parents who wish to exercise this legal right are discouraged from making application to St.
Catherine’s.
The reception class contains children at the Foundation Stage (EYFS), where they follow a curriculum based on
the following six areas of learning:
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Personal, Social and Emotional Development;
Communication, Language and Literacy;
Mathematical Development;
Knowledge and Understanding of the world;
Physical Development and
Creative Development.
Until such a time as the New National Curriculum is published, we will continue to follow the National
Frameworks for the teaching of English and Mathematics. Where possible, we are also implementing the
proposed changes indicated by the Draft National Curriculum and will continue to take into account any updates
published throughout the course of this year. More information relating to this can be found on the following
link.
http://www.education.gov.uk/schools/teachingandlearning/curriculum/a00210036/sosletter
Class teachers will inform parents, at regular intervals, about work being undertaken each term.
English:
Speaking and Listening: We encourage clear and accurate articulation at all times. We plan opportunities for
self-expression through class, group and independent work. Children are expected to be attentive and
participate to the best of their ability in such sessions.
Phonics: Phonics is emphasised in the early teaching of reading. We use the “Letters and Sounds” scheme.
Phonic knowledge is first tested at the end of year one (since June 2012) and the results are given to parents,
along with the end of year report.
Reading: A variety of reading skills are fostered, enabling children to read for pleasure, retrieve information
and carry out independent research. Centrally stored colour-coded reading schemes afford children some
element of choice, within a carefully monitored reading structure. Children also have access to class libraries,
and are encouraged to show respect for books. We urge parents to read regularly with their child/children,
discuss the text and sign Reading Record Books.
Writing: Children are required to write factually and creatively in a variety of ways in each year group. English
grammar is taught and emphasis is placed on the development of good style and use of language. Clear, wellformed handwriting is encouraged and expectations of general standards of presentation are very high.
Spelling: Children are to learn set spellings and are usually tested weekly.
Mathematics: There is an emphasis on mental calculation and strategies, with substantial work on the four rules
of number and their implementation in a variety of applications. Other areas of study include measure, algebra,
shape and data handling. Children are encouraged to explore mathematical investigations practically and are
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“Live, love and learn joyfully together through Jesus and His Church”.
taught to check answers through a process of approximation and estimation. Neat and accurate recording of
work is expected at all levels. Children are required to learn multiplication tables for homework, at an age
appropriate time.
Science: Pupils are encouraged to develop the intellectual and practical skills of scientific investigation. They
are expected to question, set up fair tests, predict outcomes, make observations and interpret results.
Programmes of study concentrate mainly on the following aspects; life and living processes, materials and their
properties and physical processes.
Information Communications Technology (ICT): The school has a mobile unit containing 34 laptops. All
children have access to these, on a rota basis, and work on a variety of themes, including word-processing, datahandling, control, modelling, monitoring, graphics, digital filming and e-mail. The use of ICT comes into many
lessons and the skills are cross curricular.
Homework: We regard homework as an important element in your child’s education. It is given to help
children further the learning taking place in class and help them increase their skills, understanding and
knowledge. It also affords parents an insight into what their child is doing at school – other than Nothing!!. It
prepares them for the workload at Secondary School. Class teachers should make children and parents aware of
their expectations with regards to homework i.e. when it will be set, how long it should take, when it needs to be
handed in and what to do if any issues arise. Please ensure that your child’s homework is signed by you and if
you have any concerns, please log these.
Staff devote time to set, mark and give feedback to pupils, so we would like your co-operation in ensuring that
conditions at home, when homework is being done, are also conducive to learning. Pupils should make a good
effort to complete work neatly and carefully to the best of their ability. They are always encouraged to access
learning at home, from recommended educational sites. If you child does not have computer access, please let
us know and we will try to arrange for them to have extra time on the Internet here.
Educational Visits: Visits are organised to places of interest as an extension of schoolwork. Children may
make visits during the school year to places connected with their class work. At present Year 6 have a
residential week (usually in an Adventure Centre on the Isle of Wight) and Year 5 go for a two night stay at
London Colney. Every effort is made to minimise the cost. The Governing Body has agreed a Charges and
Remissions policy so that parents understand when charges have to be made to enable a visit to take place.
Extra Curricular Activities: A range of extra activities is organised and varied according to the interests and
experience of the staff and agencies available. In the past we have been able to offer tin whistle, indoor and
outdoor games, multi-skills, football, netball, sewing, dance, gym, healthy eating, ECO, computer and thinking
skills clubs.
Assessments, Parent Teacher Consultations and Annual Reports
Pupil progress and attainment is monitored and regularly assessed, formally and informally. Teachers assess
children as they work in the classroom. We set assessments and optional year end tests and share these with
parents. Parent Consultations usually take place in the first and second term of the academic year, with an
optional one after Reports are sent out at the end of the academic year. Dates for these are on our website.
The first occasion is early in the Autumn Term and affords the opportunity for the class teacher to inform you
how your child has settled, what targets they have set for them and how best you can help at home. You will
have the chance to discuss things from your point of view and make a comment on the Pro Forma.
The second meeting follows a similar format, but you should also have the opportunity to see your child’s
books. The teacher should be able to give you a more detailed account of attitude, effort, progress and
attainment
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“Live, love and learn joyfully together through Jesus and His Church”.
However, meetings do not have to be so limited. We have an open door policy. Parents are invited to make an
appointment with the class teacher to discuss matters which need addressing immediately. If this does not bring
about the desired result and you want to take matters further, please do not hesitate to contact the Head who will
work alongside the management team for a positive outcome.
Children are assessed at 7 and 11 years under national assessment regulations. These assessments are known as
SATs and parents are informed of their own child’s results. Following these, in late Autumn each year, the
Government will also publish every school’s SATs results in League Tables.
Results of the SATs 2013 for 7 & 11 Year Olds
The information contained in this document is correct at the time of updating
KEY STAGE 1 Teacher Assessment
Level 2 and above
Level 3
Reading & Comprehension
97%
43%
Writing
87%
20%
Maths
97%
37%
KEY STAGE 2 Test
Level 4
4B+
Level 5
Level 6
Reading &
Comprehension
94%
82%
38%
-
Writing
94%
-
41%
3%
SPAG
91%
-
59%
3%
Maths
91%
88%
56%
18%
Reading, Writing &
Maths 4+
88%
79%
27%
-
Inspection of Schools
In July and May 2010 the school had very successful short Religious Education and OFSTED Inspections.
These Inspections evaluated all aspects of school organisation and management and we are very proud of the
outcomes. Copies of both findings are available for download on the home page of our website, or on request
from the school office.
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“Live, love and learn joyfully together through Jesus and His Church”.
PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT
Communication
As we hope you have gleaned from reading our prospectus that we know parents have the best interest of their
children at heart. Working closely with you is paramount to success. We believe that children learn best when
they see their parents and the school working together to achieve common goals. We should be positive rolemodels and lead by example.
St. Catherine’s Association
There is a very active association called “St Catherine’s Association”. Joining is a great way to make new
friends! Every parent at the school automatically becomes a member of the PTA and indeed we still have past
pupils and their parents, who help on a regular basis. All are invited to come along to their meetings. If you
can’t attend, your ideas and feedback are just as important. There is a PTA Post Box located in the main school
entrance and suggestions are welcomed.
The Committee run a variety of social events, such as family barbecue, quiz nights and children’s discos, so that
parents can get to know one other better and pupils can have fun with their peers and/or family. This means that
some functions do not make much profit but a good time is had by all. However, overall their main purpose is
fundraising. Assistance on the day of big events is appreciated, as is your and your child’s attendance, the
donation of raffle prizes and Match Funding. This is where employers match any funds raised through the
efforts of their employees running stalls. Maybe your employer has such a scheme!
The Association, thanks to their hard-work, energy and parental support, raise a substantial amount of money
which is then used to purchase resources requested by the school. Their most recent contribution was £ 5,000
towards the instalment of a Monster Multi-Active Sport Play Wall, on the top playground, - now utilised and
enjoyed by all pupils at playtimes and for a variety of outdoor lessons.
Adult help
We encourage you to assist the school and are grateful for the loyal band who already do so, as follows - driving
pupils to sporting events, changing reading books for KS1 on a regular basis, supervising small groups of
children during an activity, walking the children to the cinema or church, helping out on an educational visit or
after school club. Some parents are able to provide us with materials for the classroom e.g. paper, card and
plastics. Other parents offer visits to their place of work.
Our website lists school events to which you are invited. We look forward to you joining us as often as possible.
GENERAL INFORMATION
School Uniform
We expect children to be dressed neatly and to respect their clothing. School Uniform should be worn at all
times, apart from special occasions. Pupils with long hair should always have it tied back. Games kit must be
worn for all Physical Education lessons and pupils may come to school in their P.E. kits on their allocated days,
including swimming lessons. Items with * can only be purchased from the school office. Footwear is plain and
sensible shoes for outdoors and plimsolls for indoors. A note of explanation is required should parents wish
their child to be excluded from a games lesson on medical grounds. All items should be clearly labelled.
Although we cannot be responsible for lost items - if they are not clearly labelled we put them in Lost Property.
Boys Uniform
Black Trousers
Black Jumpers (Logo)
Tie
White Shirts
(High Street Stores or online @ School Trends)
(Online only @ School Trends)
(In school only)
(High Street Stores or online @ School Trends)
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“Live, love and learn joyfully together through Jesus and His Church”.
Coats
Summer Polo Shirts (Logo)
Smart Black Shorts
(Online only @ School Trends Optional)
(Online only @ School Trends)
(High Street Stores)
Girls Uniform
Black Skirts
Black Pinafores
Black Cardigan/Jumpers (Logo)
White Shirts (open neck – no tie)
Coats
Summer Dresses (lemon & white)
(High Street Stores or online @ School Trends)
(High Street Stores or online @ School Trends)
(Online only @ School Trends)
(High Street Stores or online @ School Trends)
(Online only @ School Trends– Optional)
(High Street Stores or online @ School Trends)
P E Kit
Sweatshirts
T-Shirts (Logo)
Shorts
Bags
Plain Black Tracksuit Bottoms
(Online only @ School Trends)
(Online only @ School Trends)
(High Street Stores or online @ School Trends)
(Online only @ School Trends)
(High Street Stores)
Our school netball, football and rugby teams have been supplied with new kits, thanks to the sponsorship and
generosity of MonsterPlay – the UK’s eco friendly playground experts.
Jewellery
A watch and small ear studs (if ears are pierced) are permitted. No other jewellery should be worn. The school
will not accept responsibility for accidents or loss of items. On P.E. days, please remove studs before your
child comes to school, otherwise children must take their own studs out and look after them or tape them up.
Mobile Phones
Children are discouraged from bringing mobile phones into school. However, on rare occasions where it is
necessary i.e. child attending after school clubs or walking home alone, they should be handed to the class
teacher at the beginning of the day so that they can be locked away for the day. Again, the school cannot take
responsibility for lost mobiles.
Breakfast Club
To offer some extended provision for parents, a Breakfast Club has been set up which caters for all our pupils.
This is held each morning in the main school dining room. It commences at 7.45 am through to the start of the
school day - 8.45 am. The personnel who run this are currently members of our school staff. It has proved very
popular with our children, who can chose from a wide range of nutritional cereals, bars, fruit, drinks and bread
and engage in activities such as Wi Fi, Table Football, hockey, computer games and board games,
If you require any further details, please contact the school office on 01923 676022 or call in during the session
and talk to one of the staff there. Prices for 2012 – 2013 are as follows:
£3.00 per session per child, £2.00 for your second child and £1.00 for your third child – up to a maximum of
£25 per week, per family.
School Day
Classrooms will be open to pupils from 8.45 a.m. The children are not expected to arrive before this time as
there is no supervision on the playground. The Governors/staff cannot accept responsibility for children left
outside the school opening times.
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“Live, love and learn joyfully together through Jesus and His Church”.
Setting good routines is also ideal preparation for Secondary School and future employment prospects.
Parents should try to:
ensure that their child arrives at school on time, properly dressed and ready to learn

instil in their child an appreciation of the importance of attending school regularly

impress upon their child the need to observe school rules

take an active interest in their child’s school career

praise and encourage good work and behaviour

attend parents’ consultations and other relevant meetings

work in partnership with us to resolve issues

avoid arranging holidays/medical/dental appointments during term time
R-Y2
8.45am - 10.35am
Y3-Y6
8.45am - 10.40am
10.35am - 10.55am Break
10.40am - 10.55am Break
12.30pm - 1.15pm Lunch
12.30pm - 1.15pm Lunch
1.15pm - 3.30pm
1.15pm - 3.30 pm
Please note we finish at 1.30pm on a Friday.
On occasions, lunch-times will be altered slightly to accommodate events such as swimming and school trips.
Playground Equipment
For health and safety reasons pupils may not use this unsupervised by staff. Therefore, this means that children
are not permitted on it either before or after school. We ask parents to ensure that younger siblings (not yet at
our school) are kept away from the playground equipment at all times.
Teacher Contact
If you wish to speak to a class teacher, please make an appointment through the office. Teachers will do their
best to accommodate you before or after school, as soon as possible. Most of them are on the premises from
8.00am to 5.30 pm. However, please understand that it is not appropriate for them to see you when they should
be with their class. Urgent messages can be given to the office staff and they will ensure these are dealt with
appropriately.
When class teachers are on courses, visiting other schools, having non-contact time, observing, planning, and
assessing lessons, the class will have another well briefed teacher or teaching assistant to cover.
As a school it is also our policy to support Initial Teacher Training, consequently your child may be taught by a
student, under direct supervision of the class teacher and monitored by University tutors.
Home Time
At home time, children in the Foundation Stage and KS1 must be collected from their classroom by an adult.
The staff will not dismiss a child until their parent or the adult responsible has arrived. Children in KS2 will be
dismissed by their teacher onto the playground to meet their parents. If parents are not there, the children are
requested to return to their class teacher who will then take them to the dining hall to wait for their parents. We
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“Live, love and learn joyfully together through Jesus and His Church”.
ask that all parents arrive promptly to collect their children, as staff are often supervising extra curricular clubs
or have the commitment of staff meetings. In the event of a parent being unavoidably late at the end of the day,
a telephone call should be made to the school.
If you are unable to collect your child and instruct another parent to do so, please tell the office staff as soon as
possible so a message can be passed to the teacher/pupil.
Holidays in School Time
Parents are urged to take their annual leave during the dates set for holidays by the Governors. Provisional term
dates are given a year in advance. Please see the attached letter from Justin Donovan, Deputy Director (Chief
Education Officer) from Children Schools and Families. Attendance at school is obviously very important for
your child’s continued development. Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 SATs dates for tests should be totally
avoided. No parent can demand leave of absence for the purpose of a family holiday, as of right.
HEALTHY EATING
Drinks/Snacks
We encourage healthy eating and a healthy lifestyle. Children may bring their own drink to school (water only)
and a piece of fruit for their morning snack (no glass bottles – for safety). Fruit will be given free of charge to
KS1. KS2 are able to purchase fruit (or a sugar free juice drink) direct from the school at morning break. All
pupils are encouraged to drink water throughout the day, as this helps concentration.
Dinners
Hertfordshire Catering Ltd are contracted by the School to deliver school lunches, organise the menus and
ensure they comply fully with the Government Food Standard Agency. This operates on a three week menu and
copies will be available at the start of term. Children may also bring their own packed lunch to school if
preferred. Again, we stress that the contents should be healthy – no fizzy drinks! The office staff are happy for
children to partake of school meals as and when, depending on the menu. The Governors employ Mid-day
Supervisory Assistants (MSA’s) to look after pupils at lunchtimes and our Teaching Assistants also provide
cover. If you are entitled to free school meals, (i.e. some families on benefits), applications should be made on
line at www.hertsdirect.org/freeschoolmeals.
Behaviour
We have high expectations of behaviour, which we encourage through gradual self-discipline. Our Behaviour
Policy is based on the principle of consideration, with respect for people, places and property. Misdemeanours
will be dealt with firmness, kindness, forgiveness and understanding. There are rewards and sanctions. On rare
occasions, parents will be asked to discuss their child’s behaviour, if it is a cause for concern.
Equality of Race, Sex and Disability - Racism
St. Catherine’s is a Catholic School reflecting the views of the Catholic Church, which universally teaches
respect and justice for all peoples in every aspect of our lives, irrespective of race, colour, creed or disability.
All staff are guided by these principles and bullying or racist incidents are not accepted. In line with LA
guidelines, incidents must be logged and dealt with effectively and with sympathy. We ask that parents support
us in this undertaking. School staff deal with these matters in accordance with the school’s policy procedures a copy of which is available on request from the school office.
The Home Office definition of racism is “Any incident which is perceived to be racist by the victim or any other
person”.
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“Live, love and learn joyfully together through Jesus and His Church”.
Anti-Bullying
The Education and Inspections Bill gives teachers a legal right to discipline pupils and take firm action on
bullying. All bullying has to be tackled on the premises! However, as a school, we can owe a duty of care
towards a child being outside of the school gates. The last couple of years have seen a rapid rise of a new type
of bullying, one which harnesses the modern technologies teenagers use, namely mobile phones, email and webbase chat-rooms –“Cyber-Bullying”
The Anti-Bullying Association has identified seven types of cyber-bullying, ranging from abusive text
messages, emails and phone calls, to bullying in internet chat-rooms, social networking sites and instant
messaging;







Text messages – unwelcome texts that are threatening or cause discomfort
Picture/video-clips via mobile phone cameras – images sent to others to make the victim feel
threatened or embarrassed.
Mobile phone calls – silent calls or abusive messages; or stealing the victim’s phone and using it to
harass others, to make them believe the victim is responsible
Emails – threatening emails, often sent using a pseudonym or somebody else’s name
Chat-room bullying – menacing or upsetting responses to children or young people in a web-based
chat-room.
Instant messaging (IM) – unpleasant messages sent as children conduct real-time conversations online
Bullying via websites – use of defamatory blogs (web blogs) personal websites and online personal
polling sites
The DCSF has guidelines on “Tackling Cyber-bullying” with simple steps schools, parents and pupils can take
to prevent cyber-bullying and deal with incidents when they occur. We need to include strategies in our policies
and tell pupils and students not to respond to abusive emails, text messages or phone calls.
Staff responsibilities include:





Teaching children safe Internet etiquette
Applying school policy in monitoring electronic messages and images
Keeping up a dialogue with parents and emerging technologies their child might be using
Ensuring parents know what steps to take if they suspect their child is being cyber-bullied or is bullying
someone else
Parents are advised to use parental control software and their children to use moderated chat-rooms.
Internet Acceptable Use Agreement
In light of the above, parents are expected to support and promote the school e-safety policy and help pupils to
be safe whilst using the internet. A consent form will be given to you in your New Parent Pack.
Image Consent
We often take photographs of children at school. We may use these images in our prospectus, publications,
displays, videos or on our website. To comply with the Data Protection Act of 1998 we need your permission
before we can photograph or make recordings of your child. However, we will have to exclude pupils, who do
not have permission, from participation in certain events and class photographs. A consent form will be given
to you in your New Parent Pack.
Advance Parental Permission
There will be occasions when teachers wish to make full use of events that may happen locally, such as in the
Church, cinema or one of the secondary schools on campus. Rather than keep completing permission slips for
each occasion, if accepting a place, we will ask you to complete the General Permission Slip, (Appendix C),
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giving teachers your permission in advance for any of the above activities. Visits requiring transport, or a
residential stay, will require an individual permission slip which will be forwarded to you as and when required.
Complaints Procedures
A formal complaint procedure exists in line with the Education Reform Act, under arrangements set up by the
Diocese of Westminster and adopted by the Governing Body. These procedures are available from the school or
the Diocese of Westminster office. If parents are abusive to staff, other parents or pupils, they will be asked to
vacate the school premises.
From time to time pupil/parent/staff questionnaires are sent out for feedback and we are delighted and reassured
when parents let us know when we are getting things right, as well as how we can improve.
Unexpected School Closure
We do all we can to stay open but on occasions it has been necessary to close the school, e.g. in winter if there
has been a heavy snow fall. Any such closures will be announced on the local Radio Station Heart 96.6
Hertfordshire, ParentMail (text & email), or on our website at http://www.st-catherine.herts.sch.uk. Staff will do
their utmost to ensure parents are advised of any closure as soon as possible. It has been reported to us in the
past that text messages have been delivered late or even repeated. This is due to the high demand of schools
using ParentMail, is beyond our control and is not down to the school administration, so please exercise
tolerance and understanding.
FINANCE
Monies Sent To School
All monies must be sent in a sealed envelope on Monday mornings, clearly marked with your child’s name,
class, amount of money and what the payment covers. For security and audit purposes, please make payment by
cheque and hand this in to the class teacher/teaching assistant and NOT THE OFFICE. Please note that money
sent in on other days (unless requested by the Parents Association for a fun event) will be returned
School Development Fund
This money is put towards the cost of any capital project, such as major building works, refurbishments or ICT
infrastructure.
Parents are requested to contribute to this fund the sum of £60.00 per family, per academic year, payable by
either by direct debit monthly/ annually or direct to the school.
We encourage parents to complete the Gift Aid Forms to claim back the tax paid on money donated. Forms are
available from the School Office and are in the new reception children’s “Welcome Pack”.
Charging
The Governing Body recognises the valuable contribution that additional activities can make towards pupils’
Personal, Social & Health Education (PSHE). If activities are organised in school time i.e. Theatre Groups,
Music and Science Workshops, parents may be requested to make a voluntary contribution towards the cost. A
charge will also be made for residential trips.
Children will not be prevented from taking part in activities, such as day trips and events organised within the
school, if parents cannot or will not pay. However, if sufficient voluntary contributions are not received, it may
result in the cancellation of an event. If a parent /guardian cannot or refuses to pay for a Residential Trip, a
decision will be made, at the discretion of the Headteacher, as to whether the child can be funded from the
school account or not. Any application for the remission of charges is to be made to the Headteacher.
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“Live, love and learn joyfully together through Jesus and His Church”.




Costs will be kept to a minimum and are often subsidised from the School Budget or School Fund.
Receipts are issued for any amounts paid in over £15.00.
All charging policies are in line with the St. Catherine’s School Finance Manual. A copy of the
Charging Policy is available from the office, on request.
The Governing Body of St Catherine’s is a non-profit making organisation.
HEALTH AND SAFETY
In accordance with current Health and Safety Regulations, St. Catherine’s will maintain, as far as is practicable,
a safe and healthy environment for all at St Catherine’s. Your co-operation is required to adhere to the Health &
Safety Policy of the school (copy available from the office). We draw your attention to the following:






the Driveway Policy
no dogs are allowed on the school premises at any time (excepting Guide Dogs).
all visitors to the school must use the main front entrance and report to the office.
visitors remaining on the premises are to sign in the Visitors’ Book and wear the badge given to them,
visitors are required to familiarise themselves with the Fire & Evacuation Procedures.
the school is fitted with CCTV cameras and has an intercom fitted on the front door.
the gate on the A405 will be locked promptly at 09.10 and reopened at 15.20
School Driveway Policy
After careful consideration of parental viewpoints, the Governing Body decided to allow parents to use the
driveway both in the morning and in the evening. For the safety of all , the only system to be used is as follows:
Mornings - All cars are to drive up and down the driveway with care and at low speed. Proceed round the
roundabout and pull immediately over to the left at the set down point adjacent to the wide pathway. Stop here
and allow your child(ren) to get out of your car on the nearside only (path side). All children are to walk along
the pathway and on to the playground.
Afternoons - All cars are to very slowly and carefully come up the driveway, go around the roundabout and
down the driveway as far as the first pull in from the school. The first car parks here and all other cars park
‘nose to tail’ back up to the roundabout and down the lane if necessary. Parents may either wait in cars until the
children come to you or you may wait on the playground for the children to come out of school.
Please help us to make the system work for you! All parents must keep to this agreed method of dropping off
and collecting of children. If any parent disregards the system, they will be contacted by the SLT and required
to keep their car off school premises.
Parents are obviously free to walk children to and from school or to park their cars in other legal areas off the
school site and again walk. We would like to draw your attention to the fact that there are vehicles crossing the
entrance to our driveway. Please exercise caution. Please do not:






walk on the driveway.
park on the driveway in the morning
park on double yellow lines - at anytime
park on the pavement
park in the first or second pull in
park in the staff car park
drop off children in the car park
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“Live, love and learn joyfully together through Jesus and His Church”.
Health and Welfare
On a child’s entrance to school parents will be requested to fill in a questionnaire to make staff aware of any
medical or physical problems. It is important for the school to have sufficient information about the medical
condition of any pupil with long term medical needs or disabilities.
Medicines
Parents are requested to dispense medicines to their children before they come to school. If a child needs
medicine during the school day, the parent/guardian must be available to come to the school to do so. Staff
cannot carry out this procedure. However, in exceptional circumstances staff will be trained to administer epipens, inhalers and insulin. It is the responsibility of the parent to ensure that medicines kept on site are in date
and checked on a regular basis. Any changes in condition must be notified to school with immediate effect.
Illness and Absence
If your child is absent from school, please notify the school that day by telephone. We have set up a
PARENTLINE for this purpose on 01923 893497. Please note that this is also our fax machine so it may take
time to leave a message. If this is not possible, please send a letter to school on the day of their return. We
expect children to attend every day, when the school is in session, as long as they are fit and healthy and able to
do so. The school will contact parents or guardians if any child has an unauthorised absence.
Repeated absences (pupils with less than 85% attendance) will be contacted by the Attendance Improvement
Officer (AIO) at County. This is with the exception of any child hospitalised or suffering from a long term
illness that we have been made aware of. Repeated lateness will also be investigated by the AIO.
Rates of Authorised and Unauthorised Absences 2012 - 2013
a.
b.
c.
Total number of pupils of compulsory school age on roll for at least one session
Percentage of pupil sessions (half days) missed through authorised absence
Percentage of pupil sessions (half days) missed through unauthorised absence
228
3.51%
0.0%
School Nurse
The School Nurse acts as liaison between Home and School and assists the School Medical Officer to check
height, weight and growth of children. She can give advice on head lice, hygiene and other health matters.
Parents may have an opportunity to meet the school nurse when attending our ‘Starting School Meeting’, at
which she is usually available to give a short talk, as well as at various points during your child’s school career.
Head Lice
Infestations are very common among young children and can cause a great deal of discomfort and
embarrassment. The well-cared for, clean child is not immune. School checks have been discontinued and it is
now the parent’s responsibility to deal with this problem. Please check your child’s hair weekly.
We would appreciate parents letting us know if their child has lice. This would enable us to inform their class
mates by pro- forma, hence avoiding a continuous problem. When a letter is sent out, please check your child’s
hair thoroughly the same day/evening. Children must be excluded from school until they are treated and free
from the condition. Leaflets and advice can be obtained from your local clinic and www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk.
Accidents at School
The majority of our staff are First Aid Trained and we have a well equipped medical room. If you child has a
more serious accident or bumped head a letter will be sent home via your child’s class teacher. However, if
staff are concerned about your child’s injury, you will be contact immediately by telephone.
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PLEASE ENSURE THAT THE SCHOOL OFFICE HAS UP TO DATE EMERGENCY NUMBERS
AND THAT THEY ARE ADVISED OF ANY CHANGES TO THESE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.
DISCLAIMER
We occasionally distribute information which has been sent in to us, relating to out-of-school activities. The fact
that we pass it on to parents does not indicate that we have verified it in any way. Parents are responsible for
satisfying themselves as to the suitability of any such activity.
The information in this document is correct at the time of publication for the forthcoming school year. However,
it does not exclude the possibility of change during any given year or in subsequent school years.
Sample of forms you will be requested to sign if offered and you accept a school place.
Appendix A - Recognition and Acceptance of the School’s Catholic Religious Ethos

St. Catherine of Siena Catholic School has been founded to provide for the educational needs of
Catholic families in this part of the Diocese of Westminster. The constitution of the school states:

“Religious observance and education in the school shall be in accordance with the rites, practices and
doctrines of the Roman Catholic Church.”

The Bishop and the governors of the school intend that pupils should receive an education of a high
standard provided by teachers dedicated to the task of the Christian formation of children and young
people, in an atmosphere pervaded by Gospel values and the message of Christ.

This means that Religious Education while given full expression in the prayer life of the school, its acts
of worship and instruction in the faith, is not limited to these.

As the Bishops have said, “The beliefs and values it communicates should inspire and unify every
aspect of school life. It should provide the context for, and substantially shape, the school curriculum,
and offer living experiences of the life of faith in its practical expression.” (Statement from Bishops’
Conference 1988).

Partnership with parents, the primary educators of their children, has long been a principle embedded in
Catholic Education. The governors value and welcome, above all, the co-operation of parents in
seeking to achieve these aims for pupils attending the school.

The governors have agreed that all parents seeking a place at St. Catherine’s should be asked to sign
below to signify that they understand and accept this statement of purpose and aims for pupils at our
school.
I/We have read and understand the statement of aims and purpose made above which I/we agree to support
for my child(ren) should I/we be offered the pupil place(s) I/we have requested.
Signed – Parent(s)/Guardian(s)
Appendix B - Statements of Mission
I/We have read carefully the Statement of Mission and I/we agree to do all we can to achieve these aims.
We ask that all parent(s)/guardian(s) sign below.
Signed – Parent(s)/Guardian(s)
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Appendix C - Permission for Educational Walks (General Consent Form – Short Visits to Local Venues)
I/We agree that my child may take part in any short visits arranged during his/her time at school.
Name of Child
Date
Signed (Parent(s)/Guardian(s)
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“Live, love and learn joyfully together through Jesus and His Church”.
Appendix D - The Municipal Borough of Watford west of the M1, east of High Road Leavesden, and north of
North Western Avenue, St Albans Road and Sheepcot Lane. The Civil Parish of Abbots Langley east of
Woodside Road. The Bricket Wood area of the Civil Parish of St Stephen in St Albans District as defined
below. Parish boundaries are as follows and run along the centre of any roads, rivers or railways mentioned
North: Chequers Lane from Woodside Road to the M1. The M1 north to the M25. M25, A405, then Lye Lane
back to the M25. M25 to the Watford-St Albans Railway.
East: The Watford-St Albans Railway to Mount Pleasant Lane. School Lane and the south-western edge of New
Plantation to St Stephens Civil Parish Boundary at Little Munden Farm. The C.P Boundary around Bricket
Wood Common to the M1 at the railway bridge. The M1 to Watford Borough Boundary at the River Colne,,
Otterspool.
South: River Colne from M1 to North Western Avenue. North Western Avenue to St Albans Road.
West: St Albans Road, Sheepcot Lane, High Road Leavesden and Woodside Road to Chequers Lane.
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Appendix E
County Hall
Hertford, SG13 8DF
Tel:
01438 737500
Fax:
01992 555719
Dear Parent/Carer
I understand that you have requested that your child is given time away from school in order to take
part in a family holiday.
I am writing to support the Governing Body and Headteacher in their attempts to dissuade parents and
carers from taking children out of school for other than wholly exceptional or unavoidable
circumstances. The Local Authority takes the view that taking children on holiday during term time
can be damaging to a child’s educational progress for two reasons. Firstly, children find it very
difficult to catch up on the learning that they have missed and in the longer term this can have a
negative impact on their progress. Secondly and as importantly, children can be given a very
unhelpful message about the value and importance of going to school.
Absence from school for family holidays is not a right. Schools have discretion to allow up to 10
days in a school year, only if they believe that the circumstances warrant it. The Pupil Registration
Regulations 2006 outline the conditions under which leave of absence for term time holidays may be
granted. Regulation 7, states that ‘leave of absence should only be granted due to the special
circumstances relating to that application’.
As parents and carers you will want the best education for your child. By taking holidays during the
designated holiday periods, you will be supporting your child’s full school attendance, learning and
development.
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“Live, love and learn joyfully together through Jesus and His Church”.