St Gregory’s Catholic Academy

Part of All Saints Catholic Collegiate

School Prospectus2018-19

1

Dear Parents/Carers,

It gives me great pleasure to welcome you and your child to St Gregory’s Catholic Academy, which is part of the All Saints Catholic Collegiate.Choosing a school is one of the most important decisions you will ever make for your child.  The purpose of this prospectus is to inform you about our vision, values and ethos, curriculum standards and provision, including the wide range of opportunities available to all pupils at St Gregory’s. As a Catholic school our fundamental mission is to promote the spiritual and moral development of every child using the teachings of Jesus Christ and gospel values as a basis for our curriculum.  Through the teaching of Religious Education, pupils learn about other faiths which enhances their understanding and appreciation of their own beliefs and British values. As a result, ‘pupils at St Gregory’s learn and grow into confident, well-rounded and positive members of their community and are a credit to their parents, carers and the school.’ (Ofsted 2016)

We delight in the many comments from visitors about the learning environment. ‘They are attentive and exceptionally well behaved in lessons and at other times. It is very rare to see any pupils disrupting lessons or interrupting the work of other pupils.’ (Ofsted 2016-17). This culture is firmly embedded, enabling children of all faiths, abilities and personalities to thrive and succeed. Through an extensive and creative curriculum children’s learning is enhanced by a wide variety of extra-curricular sporting activities and after-school clubs, for pupils in all key stages.  Our links with specialist music teachers, sports coaches and   subject specialists for modern foreign languages enable our children to access high quality teaching and learning whilst enabling pupils to participate and perform through instrumental teaching, competitive team sports, drama and performing arts.

We retain a high regard for the importance of engaging with families through regular communication and contact with parents.  Celebration assemblies provide opportunities to share children’s achievements and successes within and beyond the school day; Induction and consultation evenings for parents are held in school, as children transfer between key stages, whilst our very popular ‘Watch me Learn’ sessions provide opportunities for families to participate in lessons alongside their children. In addition,  ‘Family Learning’ events also enable parents and children to learn new skills together, which also assists children’s learning at home.

The school motto, ‘Service Before Self,’ is reflective of our vocation. Leadership is nurtured from the earliest age, and we are extremely proud of the daily contribution made by our pupils, including members of the School Council, peer mediators, sports champions and monitors.  This makes for a vibrant and dynamic learning community in which the achievements and successes of all are shared and celebrated.

Whilst I hope you find this brief introduction useful, there can be no substitute for a personal visit and you are warmly invited to visit, by prior arrangement. You are assured of a warm and friendly welcome.

I look forward to meeting you and your child in the future.

Yours sincerely

Mrs M YatesExecutive Headteacher

2

General Information

Address: St Gregory’s Catholic AcademySpring Garden RoadLongtonStoke on TrentST3 2QN

Telephone: (01782) 235340Fax: (01782) 236147E-mail office@stgca.org.ukWeb Site: www.saintgregorys.org.uk

Executive Headteacher Mrs M YatesBA Hons NPQH NLE

Chair of Academy Representatives Mr Ray Chadwick

St. Gregory’s Catholic Academy is an academy, which caters for children between the ages of 3+ and 11+. The school is part of the All Saints Catholic Collegiate owned by the Catholic Archdiocese of Birmingham and maintained by Stoke-on-Trent City Council.

Overall responsibility of the school remains with the governing body, who are the employers, comprising of foundation governors, appointed by the Archdiocese, staff elected governors (teaching and ancillary), a parent governor and one LA appointed member. Day-to-day leadership and management of the school is delegated to the Headteacher who is responsible for ensuring that the religious character of the school is maintained, developed and enhanced through a high quality curriculum, whilst securing commitment to the vision of the school in accordance with all school policies.

St Gregory’s is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and all staff share this commitment. An enhanced DBS check is required for all adults in school. A copy of our safeguarding policy is available in the school reception and on the school website.

3

Mission StatementWith respect for God and united in faith, we place service before self to inspire hearts and minds.By achieving together through our love and faith, we place Christ at the centre of all we do.

The Aims of the schoolSt. Gregory’s strives to provide a happy, secure and caring environment which fosters love and acknowledgement of Christ’s presence as central to personal, social and academic experiences and achievements. Through daily collective worship and liturgy, supported by a structured R.E. scheme of work, we aim to facilitate and develop children’s understanding and commitment to the Catholic faith, whilst also encouraging the practice of the faith on a regular basis.

Our ministry is well-supported by links with the parish community of St. Gregory’s Catholic Church. Catechists from the parish are involved in sacramental preparation, Masses and liturgical celebrations in school.It is through the successful integration of our Catholic ethos and high quality learning and teaching experiences that we endeavour to enable every child to achieve their own personal targets in all areas of the curriculum. Fundamental to this philosophy is our desire to help children to value themselves as individuals, whilst recognising their responsibilities within the school and parish community and wider world.

Admission arrangementsThe school Admissions Policy has been formally approved by the Diocesan Schools Commission and Local Authority. Applications are invited from parents whose preference is a Catholic education. Governors exercise procedures for admission, in accordance with legal requirements and the recommendations of the Archdiocese of Birmingham. Copies of the policy are available from the school office.

4

Procedures for InductionParents of prospective pupils are welcome to visit the school, by prior arrangement with the Headteacher. Induction procedures are carefully planned to include personal home visits and short sessions for parents/ carers and children. In addition, curriculum and information sessions are held for parents of pupils in Foundation 1 and Foundation 2, during which detailed information packs are distributed. Parents and carers are requested to complete an individual pupil profile which assists staff with supporting arrangements for successful pupil induction and transition. During these sessions, parents are welcome to chat informally with staff and ask any further questions. Our RE leader provides support material for children transferring into the Catholic sector.

As children transfer between key stages, parents and carers are invited to attend curriculum information evenings at the beginning of the autumn term, during which they can engage with staff and ask any questions about expectations for the year. The school is strongly committed to promoting effective home-school partnerships and recognise that this is in the best interests of every pupil, if he/she is to make expected progress.

School HoursThe school operates a flexible start to the day. Foundation Stage 1 children can be brought directly into the classrooms between 8.50am and 9.00am.

Pupils in Foundation 2, Key stages 1 and 2 may arrive between 8.45am and 8.55am and walk straight into class. All pupils are expected to arrive on time, prepared to start lessons promptly.

In Foundation Stage 1 children are taught to self-register and select a personal choice of activity before departing from parents and carers. This ensures a calm and happy start to the school day. Parents can collect children anytime between 3.00pm and 3.15pm

5

Organisation of the School

Executive Headteacher Mrs M Yates

Head of School Mrs V. BrickleyAssistant Heads Mrs J. Riddell Mrs J Antrobus

Mrs L. Lamb, Mrs M Mottram

Year 6 Mrs J. Antrobus, Year 6 Mrs J. RiddellYear 5 Mrs E. WhittinghamYear 5 Mrs Y AmorYear 4 Mr J HumphriesYear 4 Miss S PattenYear 3 Mrs H BrittonYear 3 Ms S ClarkeYear 2 Mrs L. LambYear 2 Miss L. AdamsYear 1 Mrs P GoodwinYear 1 Miss S. Shaw/ Mrs R Rushton

Foundation Stage Mrs M Till Miss L. BathMrs M. Mottram

Support Staff

Teacher Support Assistants Mrs D Dobson, Miss P. Hill, Mrs B Karobas, Mrs J Mould, Mrs E Littlejohn, Mrs E Walker, Mrs A Smith, Mrs J Fernyhough, Mrs S Colclough, Miss S Bloor (Senior Early Years Practitioner), Mrs S Connolly, Mrs L Salt, Miss K Tatton, Sister G Sweeney, Miss C Barker, Mrs G Kirkham,

Learning Mentor Mrs P Lewis,

Home School Link Worker Mr D Baylay Mrs J Dunn Higher Level Teaching Assistants Mrs E Walker Mrs J Mould Mrs R Taylor Mrs S Colclough

Foundation Stage Mrs M Mainwaring (Senior Early Years Practitioner) Mrs R Taylor (Senior Early Years Practitioner)

Mrs A Nixon (Early Years Practitioner)Mrs W Brookes (Early Years Practitioner)

SEN Co-ordinator Miss PattenSEN Welfare Assistants Mrs L Sutton, Mrs A Smith Mr G Till, Mrs N Rehman. Mrs H Dodd, Mrs Udine, Miss C Hulme, Mrs S Grayley, Mrs K Walley, Mrs L Salt

Executive Business Manager Mrs S Brough

6

Admin Staff Mrs N Matthews (Office Manager) Mrs D Jervis (Office Supervisor) Mrs C Ball Miss. Julie Thorley

Site Staff Mrs J Flaherty Mrs J Bibb

Lunchtime Supervisors, Mrs J Sutton, Mrs I Udine, Mr D Bailey, Mrs J Fernyhough, Mrs A Smith, Mrs J Clarke Mrs H. Dodd, Miss C Hulme, Mrs Copeland, Ms G Williams, Mrs C Foster, Mrs J Smith, Ms. C. Baptista, Mrs. E. Goodwin, Mrs Davies, Mrs Poxon

Early Birds SupervisorsMrs J Flaherty, Mrs J Bibb

Class Sizes

The net capacity of the school is 420 pupils plus the Foundation Stage 1.

Currently, the number in Foundation Stage (1 and 2) is 112.In Key Stage 1 classes consist of two year 1 and 2 year 2 classes, the standard number remains at 30 per class. This is in accordance with government legislation.

In key stage 2, the school consists 8 same age groups within the key stage. The standard number is 30 per class.

Staff work closely to curriculum in all classes which is adapted to challenge and support pupils of all abilities.

Attendance and Lateness

Regular attendance in school is crucial if children are to achieve their best. All pupils are expected to arrive on time every morning. Lateness and pupil absence is recorded and closely monitored by administration staff and the Headteacher. The school also works very closely with the Educational Welfare Officer to manage pupil attendance. Parents are requested to contact the school by telephone on the first day of absence. Evidence of medical appointments during the school day must be provided. On return to school, this should be supported by a letter outlining reasons for any absence.

7

Holiday Requests

In line with government policy, the school will not authorise holidays which are taken during term time. Please note, persistent pupil absence may be classed as a legal offence and could result in legal proceedings and a fine. Prolonged periods of continuous absence may result in a child losing his/her place in the school.Any holiday during term time will be recorded as an “unauthorised absence.” In some circumstances, the Educational Welfare Officer may be informed. This is in line with the current national guidelines for attendance.

Religious CelebrationsIn accordance with Local Authority guidance, authorisation of absence may only be given for the following days:Little Eid - one dayBig Eid - two daysPlease note, the Headteacher cannot exceed the above number of days.

Collecting Pupils from School

No child may leave school early unless prior notice has been given. The school discourages medical/dental appointments during school time. Absence will only be classes as an ‘illness’ when medical evidence is provided. Proof of medical and dental appointments must be obtained and given to the school in advance. In the interests of safeguarding pupils, the school must be notified if any other adult will be collecting children from school. Pupils can be collected from the main reception area and must be signed out of the building.

If a child becomes unwell at school, or has an accident, then parents/carers will be contacted as soon as possible. Parents/carers are required to keep us informed of any changes to contact numbers in the event of an emergency.Every child in the school will be given regular health checks by the school nurse.Drop-in sessions for parents are held every half-term. Regular dental checks are also given in school for children in Foundation 2. If action is required as a result of these checks, then the parents will be informed by letter to make an appointment with their own dentist.

8

Travelling to and from school and parking

At St Gregory’s we want to encourage our children to be healthy and stay safe. One of the ways we can contribute to this is by walking some or all of the way to school.. Each child is encouraged to walk to and from school at least twice a week. The map below shows a 10 minute walking distance to school. Parents and carers are very welcome to park on the former Somerfield car park, or at the far end of the cemetary and walk through. Parking is a real problem in the vicinity of the school . We have a school crossing patrol and ask all parents to use it if crossing Spring Garden Road. Please be courteous of our local residents and businesses when parking close to the school, parents are not allowed to park in the cemetery and we are regularly patrolled by traffic wardens.

Limited car parking spaces are available on the KS2 playground for permit holders. The permits will be sold from the school office at the end of each term for the start of the next.

Academic Year 2018-2019

First day of term Last day of termAutumn Term Wednesday 5th September Friday 26th October

Autumn Term Tuesday 6th November Friday 21st December

Spring Term Tuesday 8th January 2019 Friday 15th February

Spring Term Monday 25th February Friday 12th April

Summer Term Monday 29th April Friday 24th May

Summer Term Monday 3rd June Friday 19th July Also May Day 06 05 2019

School Uniform

9

School uniform reflects high expectations and provides a sense of identity and unity for all pupils. Children are expected to wear the correct school uniform at all times. The school uniform policy, approved by the governing body, is as follows:-BoysNavy V-neck jumper – with school logoPale blue school shirt (short or long-sleeved)Nursery only - Pale blue polo shirtsSchool tieDark grey flannel trousersGrey/Navy socks and black shoes

GirlsNavy V-neck cardigan or jumper– with school logoPale Blue school shirt (not fashion shirt)Nursery only - Pale blue polo shirtsSchool tieNavy Blue skirt or pinaforeNavy socks and black shoesSummer Term onlyGirls may wear the navy blue and white checked summer dress.All pupils may wear black or navy summer sandals.

P.E. KitAll pupils must wear correct PE kit for PE.White crew neck T shirt – with/without school logoBlack shortsNavy Blue Fleeces, Navy blue tracksuit (or sweatshirt with school logo)Black plimsollsCoats – dark, plain

All items of clothing should be clearly marked with the child’s name.

Some items of school uniform can be purchased from the Longton Protective Clothing in Longton via the following website www.supersport.co.uk and National Schoolwear Centre Hanley

10

PLEASE NOTE:

In the interests of Health and Safety, jewellery must not be worn. Pupils may wear a small plain stud, if ears are pierced. Any child who has their ears pierced should do so during the extended summer holiday to allow time for the studs to be removed.

Shaven hairstyles, patterns /lines, or colours in hair are not permitted.

Make up and nail varnish are not allowed. Mobile Phones and IPods are not allowed in school.

For health and safety reasons NO JEWELLERY IS ALLOWED IN THE FOUNDATION STAGE ALL JEWELLERY MUST BE REMOVED FOR PE LESSONS.

Complaints Procedures

Positive relationships and good communication is essential to the well-being of children, parents and staff.Parents are strongly encouraged to discuss any concerns with staff, by prior appointment. The Headteacher operates an ‘open door’ policy and will endeavour to meet with parents/carers at the earliest opportunity.

Should any parent/carer remain dissatisfied with the school’s handling of a complaint, they may refer the matter to the governing body. The school follows the diocesan model Complaints Policy. A copy of the formal complaints procedure is displayed in the main entrance area and on the school website.

Freedom of Information

A copy of the school policy on ‘Freedom of Information’ is available in the main entrance. Parents can request copies of any policies, although a small charge for photocopying is required.

11

Attitudes and Behaviour

High expectations for good behaviour and a consistent approach to discipline and behaviour management is fundamental if children are to remain happy and secure. Our school ethos places strong emphasis on respect and courtesy towards others, both within and beyond the school environment. Adults are expected to model positive attitudes and behaviour at all times by observing the school’s ‘Code of Conduct for Adults in School’, which applies to any adult, including those appointed by the school or any other agencies, parents, carers and visitors to the school.

Emphasis is laid on the production of good work, effort, honesty, helpfulness, success, courage and other positive personal qualities. For these, children will be praised verbally, offered commendations or awarded during school assemblies. Each class teacher has house point stickers which the children will receive if they have impressed the teacher by displaying one of the above qualities. If a child has performed or behaved exceptionally well, they may be referred to the Executive Head Teacher who will reward them accordingly. Parents may also receive a letter congratulating them on their child’s achievements.At the end of the academic year a presentation evening is held during which awards are presented to children who have made excellent progress, outstanding effort and high attainment, in addition to those pupils receiving carer awards or for exceptional contribution to school life.

Parents and carers are expected to support the school’s sanctions for dealing with inappropriate behaviour, by encouraging children to take responsibility for their actions. It is essential that parents and carers uphold the high expectations set within school in order to preserve the exemplary behaviour of our pupils.

The school operates zero tolerance of bullying or racist comments.It is a requirement that all racist comments are formally recorded and forwarded to the Local Authority.

Our Anti-bullying Policy has been completed with involvement from pupils, staff, parents/carers and governors.

A full copy of the Behaviour and Anti-Bullying Policies are displayed in the main entrance area and is available on the school website.

12

School Curriculum

As a Catholic school, we aim to promote the Gospel values which permeate and enhance our curriculum.

All pupils within the Foundation Stage engage in a range of learning experiences based upon the Early Years Foundation Stage framework, Spiritual and moral development, creative development, personal, social and emotional, physical development, language, literacy and communication, Mathematical development, knowledge and understanding of the world.

In Key Stages one and two all pupils access the National Curriculum which consists of the following areas:Core subjects: RE, English, Mathematics, Science and Computing

Foundation: History, Geography, French, Design Technology, Music, Art and Physical Education.

NB: On transfer into Year One, some children may still be working within the Foundation Stage Early Learning Goals. As in all year groups, the curriculum is planned to cater for children working at various levels of ability.

Planning in each year group is carefully structured to accommodate the needs of every pupil. It is our aim to provide a broad and balanced curriculum which promotes creativity, excellence and enjoyment, with opportunities for independent learning. Teachers’ planning accommodates a variety of teaching styles to include opportunities for collaborative and independent activities.All classes have access to a computer. In every classroom in Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 pupils have access to networked computers and laptops. The school also has a computer suite, with 35 computers. All pupils also have access to I pads.

The curriculum is designed to:- instil respect for religious and moral values, and respect for other races, religions and

ways of life; help pupils to develop lively, enquiring minds, the ability to question and argue rationally

and to apply themselves to tasks and physical skills; teach pupils to use language and number effectively; facilitate pupils’ understanding of the world in which they live, their own responsibility and contribution and the interdependence of individuals, groups and nations; nurture an enthusiasm for learning, in order to equip them with independent, life-long

learning skills; involve pupils in setting and realistic and challenging targets in order to achieve success

and raise aspirations.

13

Religious Education

As a Catholic school, Jesus Christ remains central to every aspect of school life. All pupils are educated in the beliefs and devotional practices of the Catholic church. Participation in daily collective act of worship remains at the helm of every morning and afternoon session, within RE lessons and at the end of each day. Every class prepares and leads Mass once a term, with parents, families and parishioners warmly welcomed.

The Catholic RE scheme ‘Living and Growing as the People of God’ is followed throughout the school. This is supplemented by work on the saints and stories from the Old and New Testaments, Circle time sessions and Personal, Social and Health Education. Children participate in special liturgies during the school year which are timed to coincide with events in the Church’s calendar.

Our parish priest, Canon John Gilbert, works closely with school staff and families, to prepare year 3 pupils for the Sacraments of Reconciliation and First Holy Communion, whilst pupils in Year 6 prepare for Confirmation. Relationships and Family Life (Sex Education) is taught formally in all classes and is integrated into Science and RE.

Parents and carers are advised that, in desiring a Catholic education for their child, it is expected that all pupils will participate in RE lessons. Parents and carers have the right to withdraw their children, although this is strongly discouraged, and parents will be required to supervise their children during this period, as adult supervision is not available in school.All pupils learn about other religions and cultures and are encouraged to show respect and acknowledgement for the beliefs of others through open discussion and shared experiences. This is reflected through the involvement of Muslim andSikh pupils, both within school and the wider local community, who have worked with other schools by leading assemblies during Eid and Ramadan.

KS2 pupils are given the opportunity to visit Alton Castle, an education centre which combines a spiritual retreat with outdoor activities.

During Lent and Advent, liturgies take place during and after school. These prayer group sessions are led by staff and pupils, whilst after-school prayer sessions are led by a parish Catechist and pupils.

14

Language Development

At St. Gregory’s our aim is to help, teach and encourage children to develop as enthusiastic, confident, independent users of language through the spoken and written word. We recognise that language is central to all learning and we appreciate that language empowers children to communicate creatively and imaginatively, as well as allowing them to engage with others at an early age.In the Foundation Stage the emphasis is placed upon communication, language and Literacy Development skills through structured play, child choice and teacher directed activities including the letters and sounds programme. In Key Stages One and Two Language and literacy, and daily phonics, are taught every day following the National Literacy Strategy. A complete range of language skills are taught throughout the school which include speaking and listening, writing in a variety of forms and for different audiences, reading with understanding, research and retrieval of information and fostering an appreciation and love of literature.

Children learn grammar and spellings appropriate to their needs and to help them write with fluency and efficiency.A great emphasis throughout the school is placed upon the development of speaking and listening skills. To develop these skills a variety of activities are integrated into both the Literacy hour and throughout the curriculum, from group discussion and debates, to various drama activities.

Mathematics

Mathematics is enhanced by the use of the Collins Maths scheme, in conjunction with the National Numeracy Framework. This is a highly effective scheme which offers an integrated course for children of primary school age. The work is developed through a series of graded topics and experiences which facilitates appropriate, stimulating and challenging activities which are differentiated for various levels of ability.

We stress the importance of knowing multiplication tables and number bonds and look for evidence of this in weekly mental arithmetic lessons. All pupils are taught to develop efficient strategies for mental and written calculations which is clearly outlined within our school policy.

Science

15

Science lessons are planned in units which are taught over a half-term period.There is a strong emphasis on investigative learning, with pupils working collaboratively, undertaking practical activities, discussing their work and drawing their own conclusions from their results. Health and Safety Education forms an essential part of the science curriculum.

Computing

In KS1 and KS2 the children have daily access to the internet using one of the five network machines in each room. Interactive whiteboards are located in every classroom, with some classes timetabled for ICT lessons. Basic skills of word processing, computer aided design, control technology, modelling and information handling are taught through a structured ICT scheme of work. The school has laptops and I pads in each class which all pupils have access to for regular ICT lessons, as well as in other curriculum areas.

Children are actively involved in preparing material for the school Parents and carers can view this information via the Reception TV screen and the website. Pupils also access an additional screen located in the community dining room.Visit us at www.saintgregorys.org.uk

16

Foundation Subjects

Design Technology, Art, History and Geography are incorporated into termly topics, based on the New Primary Curriculum. Activities relating to each specific topic are planned by the class teacher in conjunction with the National Curriculum documents. Each subject area will also incorporate opportunities for cross-curricular links with other curriculum areas such as Mathematics, Science and Language.

Music

Music is taught by class teachers, under the guidance of the Music leader, with a specialism in this area. All pupils in Key Stage 2, Y5 and Y6 pupils have an opportunity to play a stringed instrument. Weekly lessons are given by specialist music teachers. In addition, groups of children attend weekly recorder lessons after school. Also, pupils in both key stages can participate in either the Songbirds choir (Key stage 1), or the school choir. These groups participate in both the annual Recorder Festival and Songbirds concerts at the Victoria Hall.

Modern Foreign Language

All children in Year 2 and Key Stage 2 have timetabled lessons in French. During these lessons children learn to speak basic French which they will be able to use to broaden their understanding of other cultures. A variety of interactive resources are used to make lessons stimulating and enjoyable.

Physical Education

St. Gregory’s offers exceptional opportunities for pupils to access a range of physical activities. The school has been awarded Healthy School status and the ‘Active mark’ for its PE provision. Through links with the PE Partnership, children in both key stages one and two have been taught by specialist teachers in dance and martial arts. A specialist coach delivers high quality multi-skills lessons, which enhances the quality of PE.All pupils in year 5 have the opportunity to complete cycling proficiency and road safety courses. As part of the extended schools provision, all pupils may access pupils sporting activities including, football, athletics, tag rugby, tennis, netball, cricket, cross-country, martial arts and cycling proficiency. There are school teams for football, netball, rugby, athletics, cross-country, swimming and cricket.

17

Foundation Stage Curriculum

Learning in the Foundation Stage is divided into 7 key areas of learning which are interlinked.

Personal, Social and Emotional is the most important area as it helps the child to progress in the other six areas. It includes a curriculum for Religious Education which is written especially for three to five year olds.

Communication and Language Your child’s ability to communicate verbally plays an essential role in the development of these skills.

Physical Development encourages children to develop their fine motor skills such as threading, pencil control and working with a range of construction equipment. It also encourages gross motor skills such as jumping, climbing and using a range of outdoor equipment.

Literacy provides the foundations for reading and writing skills.

Mathematical Development develops the key skills such as counting, matching, sorting and working with numbers.

Understanding of the World encourages children to find out about the world around them inclusive of basic ICT skills.

Expressive Art and Design allows your child to use their imagination in art, craft and music using a range of tools and materials.

These seven areas of learning are given equal weighting and are delivered using a range of adult led and child initiated opportunities. We believe that children should be active learners and therefore we provide a variety of practical opportunities for your child to learn while having fun. An overview of what your child will be learning will be sent home at the beginning of each half term.

18

Provision for Children with Special Needs

The school follows the DfES Code of Practice for the identification and assessment of pupils with special educational needs. Special needs may include learning, physical or emotional behaviour difficulties. The school has a Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator, (SENCO), who leads in this area.

The school benefits from well-established links with other partners and services, including Educational Psychology, Special Educational Needs Support Service (SENSS) and language support staff. At various stages the school will call on the support of an external agency to give advice.

Children with a statement of special needs and others on the register haveIndividual Educational Plans (IEP’s) drawn up to target areas of particular need. Parents and carers are consulted and involved in regular IEP reviews so that all partners can contribute and work together to support the child.The school has a policy for Special Educational Needs, a copy of which can be obtained from the school office.

Children are constantly monitored to see if the progress that they are making is satisfactory. If a child is found to require additional support due to either a specific learning difficulty or high level of ability in a specific area, then a programme of work is tailored to suit his/her needs. The Special needs Coordinator (SENCO) liaises closely with support services and a range of support strategies are established in school to assist pupils overcome barriers to learning. Pupils’ progress is closely monitored by the school SENCO. Parents are consulted and involved at every stage when planning individual provision.

Gifted and Talented Pupils

Throughout the year pupils will be assessed by their class teacher to establish progress made, to highlight any difficulties that arise and to plan appropriate work that enables pupils to improve their attainment.Sometimes a teacher may identify a pupil who demonstrates exceptional ability.In these cases, after discussion with the Headteacher, it may be appropriate to call upon external advice. School has access to an advisor for gifted pupils who can make assessments and help establish programmes of study.Throughout the academic year, some pupils may have the opportunity to work with secondary students, in order to further challenge and extend learning.

Inclusion and Equal opportunity

We aim to develop a culture of inclusion and diversity and enable all pupils, including those with Additional Educational Needs, special Educational Needs and/or disabilities and ethnic minorities, to have access to a broad and balanced curriculum by making reasonable adjustments to ensure that no pupil is placed at a substantial disadvantage. Our school is committed to promoting equal opportunities for all pupils by making reasonable adjustments and

19

removing barriers in all areas of school life. A copy of our Disability and equality policy and the Accessibility plan is available in the school reception and on the school website.

Communication, Support and Partnership with Parents

Prior to admission, Foundation Stage staff complete informal home visits, to provide parents and carers with opportunities to discuss individual needs, abilities and concerns. More information is provided in the Induction Booklet.At St. Gregory’s we value and recognise the benefits of an effective partnership between home and school. On entry to the school, all parents are required to sign a Home-School Agreement which explains what is expected from the school, pupils and parents. Our school newsletter the ‘St. Gregory’s Gazette’’ is printed fortnightly and placed on the school website, providing information and guidance for parents on all aspects of school life. We also have frequently updated Facebook St Gregory's Catholic Academy and twitter feed STGCA@StGregorysCA

In the autumn term parents are invited to attend an information evening during which they can meet the relevant teaching staff who will present an overview of the curriculum. Further open evenings are held during the spring and summer terms; these provide opportunities for parents to discuss individual progress and attainment, against personal targets. Family literacy and mathematics evenings are arranged throughout the year to help parents to support their children’s learning.

Every child is supplied with a home-school diary which is used to record homework details. Parents are required to sign the diary to indicate completion of reading and written homework and are encouraged to record any further comments.

The Home-School Link Worker provides additional support and guidance for families, where necessary. Her involvement with attendance or health matters enables families to acquire prompt support from various services.

The school nurse provides drop-in sessions for families and staffs every half-term. Parents and carers are encouraged to book a timeslot for these sessions.

Support for Pupils

The safety, happiness and personal well-being of all pupils at St. Gregory’s is paramount if children are to achieve their potential.All pupils admitted to the school are supported by the Learning Mentor, who monitors their well-being during break-times, and liaises with staff and parents/carers during the child’s first weeks in school.

Both the Learning Mentor and Home-School Link Worker liaise closely to ensure all pupils are well-supported. A Network team includes the school nurse, Integrated Family Support Worker and school staff met regularly to identify and provide support for pupils and families.

Homework

Every week children are given a set amount of homework to complete. All homework must be completed and handed in promptly. Children are expected to read regularly at home, (minimum

20

four times per week). All pupils are supplied with a home-school diary and parents are requested to sign this at least three times during each week to indicate when a child has read at home.The school provides homework club twice per week.

Extra-curricular activities

At the end of the school day, from 3.15 pm. to 4.00 pm or 4.15 pm, we offer a wealth of opportunities for children to take part in activities which are led, voluntarily, by staff, parents or external colleagues. Most of the practices for school teams, such as football, netball, cricket, take place during these times.Any child who attends these activities must return a completed consent form which has been signed by their parent or guardian. Some of the activitiesavailable throughout the year include: Netball, Dancing, Football, Cricket, Tag Rugby, Athletics, Arts, Homework Club, Choir, Reading Club, Drama, Book swaps, Cookery, Recorders, choir practice. During Lent and Advent, a prayer group meets after school to which parents and carers are invited to attend.

The school provides a Wraparound Care Facility from 7.45 -8.45 (£2.50) and 3.00pm- 6.00pm (£7.50) to be booked and paid in advance which includes healthy breakfast, tea and supervision of activities. Payment is via our online payment website The school Learning Mentor provides additional support for pupils who may have temporary difficulties and she is available to speak with parents/ carers during this time.Parents and carers are warmly welcomed to join us during our Family Breakfast sessions each half-term.

Pupils’ Contribution to the School

Representatives from years 1 to 6 are elected by peers to attend School Council meetings every fortnight. These pupils are held in high regard by senior leaders and the children contribute to all aspects of school-life, including policies and decision-making. Some pupils attend Primary Congress alongside pupils from other city school who meet to discuss and share ideas, including wider community schemes.Our head and deputy head boys and girls, class monitors and house captains provide good role-models for younger pupils through promoting positive attitudes and behaviour. Support for all pupils is excellent, including the peer mediators, who help children to manage and resolve their own conflict, for minor disagreements.Older pupils form the Eco-Squad and take care of the school environment. Re-cycling bins are available and families are encouraged to reinforce this approach, where possible.This year, a Sports Council has been established. Representatives from Y1 to Y6, meet regularly to develop PE opportunities further throughout St. Gregory’s and the All Saints Academy.

School Meals

School meals are served on the school premises, at a cost currently £2.45 per day for children in years 3-6. The cost for the nursery only is £2.35 per day. Meals must be paid for in advance via ParentPay as we are a cashless school. User names and passwords will be issued in September 18.

21

The catering staff work very hard to produce very high quality food and the children are always given a choice of main course and sweet. If you wish your child to have a packed lunch, then facilities are available. All nursery children must purchase a hot meal.Children are only allowed to change mealtime arrangements half termly.

St. Gregory’s operates a healthy food policy. Pupils in Foundation Stage and Key Stage 1 are given fruit every day. Children in Key stage 2 may also bring fruit for snack for playtime snacks. Chocolate, fizzy drinks and sweets or crisps etc. are not allowed. Toast and a healthy drink are available on sale each morning break for KS1 and KS2 children.

Parent Teacher and Friends Association (PTFA)

The school has a thriving PTFA which organise various fund-raising events throughout the school year. Parent Teacher & Friends Association exists to raise funds for the purchase of educational resources in school. All parents/carers and associated families and friends are welcome to attend meetings and are encouraged to support school functions. Every fundraising event helps the children directly as every penny raised is used to purchase educational equipment. Your support is essential. Parent helpers are also very welcome within school.

Regular volunteers/helpers will be asked to complete a disclosure form which will be sent off to the DSB who will carry out the necessary clearance checks.

Most parent helpers offer one or two hours a week on a regular basis and this extra help in the class really helps to make a difference to the amount of time teachers can spend working with children. If any parent feels that they could help in any way, then contact the school. Your support will be most appreciated.

Finally, we hope this prospectus provides sufficient information and guidance for prospective parents and carers. Any feedback or comments which would improve this document would be appreciated.

Should you have any further questions, please contact the school, or make an appointment to visit.

22