ABBOTSWELL

SCHOOL

PARENTS’ HANDBOOK

2017 – 2018

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Dear Parents/Carers,

On behalf of the staff may I take this opportunity to welcome you to

Abbotswell School and to what I hope will be a long and happy association

with us. At Abbotswell we aim to provide an environment for children which

ensures their happiness as well as educational progress. All staff endeavour

to create a relaxed, caring atmosphere where learning is encouraged and

where your child can develop into a thinking, caring, responsible member of

society. This we do in partnership with home – working together in an

atmosphere of trust and openness to provide the best education for all.

In any organisation problems do occur and it is important that if staff or

parents are worried or have a concern, that we talk about it to reach a

speedy resolution. Parents/carers may telephone or call into school to

discuss any area of concern.

We look forward to working with you to ensure that your child‟s best

interests are met.

With best wishes,

Allison Kerr

Head Teacher

3

CONTENTS

Section 1 – General School Information Page

Contact Details 5

School Hours 5

Arrival at School 5

School Background 6

School Zone 7

Current Staff 8

Temporary Teachers 10

Students on Placement 10

Class Groupings 10

Admissions Procedure 11

Attendance and Absence 11

School Dress 13

Lost Property 14

Mobile Phones 14

Personal Possessions 14

School Meals 14

Free School Meals 15

Social Snack 15

Playground Supervision 16

Adverse Weather 16

Fire Drill 16

Parking 17

Policies 17

Section 2 – School Ethos

Vision and Aims 18

Abbotswell Behaviour Code 19

Bullying and Exclusion 19

School and Community 20

Section 3 – Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting

Curriculum for Excellence 21

Learning and Teaching 27

Assessment and Reporting 28

Educational Visits 29

Extra Curricular Activities 29

Instrumental Tuition 29

Sensitive Aspects of the Curriculum 30

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Section 4 – Parental Involvement and Support for Pupils

Parent Forum / Council 33

Home / School Communication 33

Homework 34

Health and Safety 35

Transfer to Secondary School 36

Child Protection 37

Additional Support Needs 37

Getting it Right for Every Child (GIRFEC) 38

Educational Psychological Services 38

Social Work 39

Concerns and Complaints 39

Insurance 40

Transfer of Data and Data Protection 40

Section 5 – School Improvement

Standards and Quality Reports 43

School Improvement Plan 43

Priorities for Development 2013 - 2016 44

Appendix 1

CfE Schematic 45

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SECTION 1 – GENERAL SCHOOL INFORMATION

OUR SCHOOL

School name: Abbotswell School

Postal Address: Faulds Gate

Aberdeen

AB12 5QX

Telephone: 01224 872714

Fax: 01224 876270

Email: abbotswell@aberdeencity.gov.uk

AlKerr@aberdeencity.gov.uk

Emergency Link: 0870 0541999

Pin No.: 011130

Website: abbotswell.aberdeen.sch.uk

SCHOOL HOURS

Nursery: 8.30am – 11.40am (morning)

12.20pm – 3.30pm (afternoon)

P.1 – P.3: 8.45am – 12.00pm

1.00pm – 3.00pm

P.4 – P.7: 8.45pm – 12.15pm

1.15pm – 3.00pm

Morning interval: 10.30am – 10.45am

ARRIVAL AT SCHOOL

Parents are requested not to send their children to school before 8.30am as

the playground is unsupervised before school. Children who go home for

lunch should not return to school until 12.55pm (P.1 – P.3) or 1.10pm (P.4 –

P.7). Your co-operation in this matter will help with the supervision of the

pupils who are left in school.

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THE SCHOOL

Abbotswell School and Craighill School amalgamated in August 2007, leading

to the creation of a new Abbotswell School. The amalgamation meant a

period of change and transition for everyone involved in the life of the new

school.

The school building was opened in August 1951 and is surrounded by an

extensive grassy playground area. The playground is a continuing area of

development for us as we look to enhance children‟s experiences in the

outside environment.

In addition to the normal range of classrooms the facilities at Abbotswell

include a large assembly hall, a gym and a kitchen complex where meals are

prepared for other schools in the area. The main teaching corridor also has a

library, ICT suite and an active learning zone for Early Stages classes.

The range of educational provision at Abbotswell extends from Nursery to

Primary 7. The Nursery caters for 80 children – 40 each morning and

afternoon. The current role is 209 in 9 primary classes.

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ABBOTSWELL SCHOOL ZONE

Parents may enrol their child at the school of their choice, providing there is

a place. Details regarding placing requests are available from the school

office or from the Head Teacher.

Abbotswell School is the zoned school for children residing in:

Abbotswell Drive

Auldearn Gardens, Place, Road

Boyd Orr Avenue, Close, Place, Walk

Buchanan Gardens, Place

Caiesdykes Crescent, Drive, Road Cairngorm Drive, Place, Road

Cairnvale Crescent, Terrace Clerk Maxwell Crescent

Covenanters Row

Cruickshank Crescent

Deevale Crescent, Gardens, Road,

Terrace

Dugald Baird Square

Faulds Crescent, Gate, Row, Wynd

Gardner Crescent, Drive, Place, Road,

Walk

Great Southern Road (131-139)

Hetherwick Road

Kincorth Circle, Place Leggart Avenue, Crescent, Place,

Road, Terrace

Laws Drive, Road MacKay Road

Matthews Road

Nigg Way

Provost Watt Drive (14-96) Robertson Smith Court

Shepherd Place Slessor Drive, Road

Stonehaven Road Webster Road

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SCHOOL STAFF (April 2017)

Head Teacher Miss A. Kerr

Depute Head Teacher Mrs. E. Douglas

Principal Teacher Mrs. L. Brechin

Class Teachers Mrs. S. Callum

Miss K. Dezall

Miss S. Duncan

Miss K. Farmer

Mrs. C. Forbes

Mrs. L. Gilmore

Miss S. Hayes

Miss C. Joyce

Miss B. MacLennan

Miss L. Meston

Mrs. S. Will

SfL Teacher Mrs. L. Brechin

Senior Early Years Practitioner

Early Years Practitioners

Miss S. McDonald

Mrs. C. Amos

Mrs. J. Hayati

Ms. I. MacDonald

Miss K. Whyte

Pupil Support Assistants

Mrs. J. Brown

Mrs M. Dwornik Kuruova

Mrs. A. Hopkins

Mrs. S. Innes

Mrs. J. Kidney

Mrs. J. Murray

Mrs. D. Page

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Specialists:

Music

Mr. A. Smith

Music Instructors:

Guitar

Violin

Piano

Brass

Mr. M. McMillan

Ms. S. Reid

Mr. I. Lovegrove

Mr. A. Gregory

School Administrator Mrs. L. Douglas

School Support Assistant Mrs. L. Strachan

Janitor Mr. Z. Konta

School Nurse Mrs. V. Barrow

School Cook/Supervisor Ms. H. Milne

School Chaplain

Rev. E. McKenna

Educational Psychologist

Dr K. Worrall

Quality Improvement Officer Mrs. D. Smith

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TEMPORARY TEACHERS

From time to time it is necessary to employ temporary teachers to replace

staff who are absent. Whilst every effort is made to ensure continuity of

staff, it is not always possible, especially when a member of staff falls ill

and there is no prior warning. Continuity of planned learning is a priority for

the senior management team. Pupils are expected to conduct themselves in

the same manner for any teacher who comes to school.

STUDENTS ON PLACEMENT

Abbotswell School accepts students from the University and from Aberdeen

College to develop their teaching skills. Throughout the session these young

adults will often be present in classes to assist the class teacher in the

preparation and presentation of work. Again, there is an expectation that

pupils treat students with respect and demonstrate appropriate behaviour at

all times.

CLASS GROUPINGS

Your child may be placed in a single stage class with a maximum of 25 pupils

in P.1, 30 pupils in P.2 and P.3 and 33 pupils in P.4-7. Your child may be placed

in a composite class with a maximum of 25 pupils. Composite classes comprise

children from two stages e.g. P.4/5.

All pupils, whether in a single stage or composite class, are taught in groups

according to their stage of development. Emphasis is placed on teaching the

necessary competencies in each area of the curriculum. Many activities

involve pupils working both independently and co-operatively. Children are

encouraged to become independent learners.

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ADMISSIONS PROCEDURE

Parents wishing to enrol their child at Abbotswell School are welcome to

visit the school at any time. The Senior Management Team is always willing

to show parents around the school and discuss any issues raised. Following an

initial meeting and completion of enrolment forms, a start date for the child

will be arranged.

New entrants to P.1 are enrolled in January for entry to school the following

August. Information regarding enrolment is publicised in the local press

early in the calendar year and communicated to parents through the school

newsletter. For further information go to:

www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/education_learning/education_and_learning.asp

At Abbotswell School we do our utmost to make starting school as happy an

experience as possible for each child (and parent!). Nursery pupils take an

active part in the life of the school, assisting their transition to P.1. In the

summer term they will meet their teacher, visit their classroom and go

outside at playtime with existing P.1 children. New entrants who are coming

from another pre-school centre will be afforded the same opportunities. All

parents will be invited to an induction meeting at school where they will be

given more information about school life.

ATTENDANCE AND ABSENCE

As a parent it is your legal responsibility to ensure that your child

attends school and arrives on time. Lateness is recorded daily and is

monitored frequently.

If your child is unable to attend school, school must be informed by 9 am on

the first day of absence. On your child‟s return to school a note should be

provided explaining the reason for absence and confirming the periods of

absence from school. The school must also be informed in writing if a pupil

has to attend a medical or dental appointment during school hours. Children

should be collected from and returned to the school office.

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Where there are frequent absences or lateness, or there is an obvious

pattern of absence, the Home/School Liaison officer will be informed and

will follow up our concerns.

Planned Absences

As part of government regulations we are required to record all absences as

authorised or unauthorised. Authorised absences are due to illness or family

bereavement and can include, for example, participation in sporting events or

music/dancing exams.

Pupils taking time off from school to accompany their family on holiday is not

a legal right in Scotland and such absences are recorded as unauthorised.

Parents are asked to request in writing, permission to take children out of

school during term time for a family holiday. Holiday dates are issued

annually to parents. For more information, visit www.aberdeencity.gov.uk.

Communicable/Infectious Diseases

When pupils are off school because of sickness or diarrhoea, they should not

be sent back to school until 48 hours after symptoms have passed, i.e. 2

clear days. Pupils must be kept off school for a period of time when they

have an infectious or contagious disease. These include common ailments

such as impetigo, chickenpox, conjunctivitis, etc. Please contact your GP for

up to date advice if you think your child has a communicable disease.

Head Lice

This is a common, intermittent problem which is easily treated. If parents

discover their child is infected they should inform the school and obtain the

necessary treatments from the chemist. Letters are issued to parents if

10% of pupils in any one class have head lice.

Asthma

Children are encouraged to be responsible for their own inhalers. All pupils

suffering from asthma must have an inhaler in school – this should be

clearly labelled with the child’s name and class.

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SCHOOL DRESS

School uniform is strongly encouraged as it gives a sense of identity and

belonging, sets a high standard of appearance and is often less expensive

than a variety of ordinary clothing. Casual dress e.g. denim jeans, hooded

tops, football tops and clothing displaying large brand name logos are not

acceptable. Black sweatshirts/jumpers do not form part of the

Abbotswell uniform.

Boys grey, navy or black trousers (no tracksuits)

navy or grey sweatshirt/jumper

red sweatshirt for P.7

white polo shirt

Girls grey, navy or black skirt/pinafore/trousers

navy or grey sweatshirt/cardigan

red sweatshirt for P.7

white polo shirt

red, green or navy gingham dress (summer)

We have an agreement with Tesco for the purchasing of school uniform.

Tesco offer a wide range of clothing, complete with school badge.

For P.E., pupils require a t-shirt, shorts and gym shoes. Gym shoes must be

kept for indoor use only. In the interest of safety no jewellery should be

worn in the gym. Please note that where jewellery cannot be removed it must

be taped over. Hypo-allergenic tape for this purpose is available in school.

Parents who wish may apply for assistance with the purchase of essential

clothing/footwear. Application forms can be obtained from the school office.

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LOST PROPERTY

Lost property is kept outside the main hall and every effort is made to trace

the owners. Parents are asked to make sure that all items of clothing and

personal belongings are clearly named.

MOBILE PHONES

Mobile phones are not permitted within school. If your child must bring

his/her phone to school it should be given to the class teacher during

registration and collected at the end of the school day. You will appreciate

that mobile phones ringing during lessons would be inappropriate and

distracting. We thank you for your support in this matter.

PERSONAL POSSESSIONS

DSs, PSPs, electrical goods or any much sought after toy/game must not be

brought to school – unless the class teacher has allowed it, for example, at

the end of term. Pupils can become very upset when something is lost or

stolen. School will not accept responsibility for any missing items.

SCHOOL MEALS

School meals are prepared and cooked on the premises by the school cook

and kitchen staff. A school lunch currently costs £2.10. Children are

offered a balanced and varied menu and a free cold drink. School lunchtime

is considered part of social training and good table manners are expected.

Abbotswell School is part of the cashless catering system. Parents can top

up their child‟s card online or can hand in money in an envelope to the

kitchen.

Children who bring their own packed lunch are also accommodated at tables

in the dinner hall. Unless going home for lunch, children are not permitted to

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leave school premises during lunchtime. If they choose to do so then we

cannot guarantee their safety.

Free School Meals

Parents or carers can claim free school meals for their children if they are

receiving:

o Income Support

o Income-based Jobseekers Allowance

o Any income related element of Employment and Support Allowance

o Child Tax Credit where no award of Working Tax Credit has been

made and your annual income is less than £15,910

o Both Child Tax Credit and Working Tax Credit with an income below

the threshold for receipt of Working Tax Credit set at £6,420.

Please note: All pupils in P.1 – P.3 are entitled to free school meals.

DAILY MILE AND SNACK

Pupils in P.1 – P.7 participate in a daily walk, with their class teacher, in the

playground before morning break. Pupils eat their snack in the playground

during this break. As a health promoting school, children can bring in some

fruit or vegetables, e.g. cucumber, carrot sticks and water or fruit juice for

snack. Throughout the term there are “Treat Days” where any snack is

permitted. Please note: fizzy drinks in cans or bottles are not permitted

at any time.

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PLAYGROUND SUPERVISION

The playground is supervised at playtime and lunchtime by pupil support

staff. They are involved in supervising the children in the dinner hall and in

dealing with any incidents or emergencies over the lunch hour. All PSAs have

undergone First Aid training.

There are clear rules in the playground which outline acceptable behaviour.

Any pupil who finds it difficult to follow these rules or chooses to ignore

them will be removed from the playground for a determined length of time.

Return to the playground will be phased.

BAD WEATHER

Pupils should come to school dressed appropriately for the weather. Outdoor

play is an important part of the school day. However, arrangements will be

made for indoor playtime only in cases of very wet weather. The children

will be supervised in their classes by PSAs, P.7 buddies or SMT.

In the event of adverse weather conditions please contact the school

information line for details of any closures. The information line is also

regularly updated giving details of forthcoming events at the school. Please

do not phone the school office.

Tel.: 0870 054 1999 Pin: 011130

Information regarding any school closures will be put on the Aberdeen City

Council website too.

FIRE DRILL

Fire drill notices are displayed in all areas of the school. Practice fire drills

are held once a term when all staff and pupils must evacuate the premises

following the correct procedures.

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PARKING

Parents/carers are requested to use the car park at the Nursery end of

the building. Children must not be dropped off in the staff car park.

Children must not walk through the staff car park to gain entry to the

school or its grounds. We would encourage parents to refrain from this

practice too.

POLICIES

School and local authority policies are currently being reviewed and updated

to reflect Curriculum for Excellence principles and practice. The following

school policies are available to view by contacting the school office:

Homework Spelling

Behaviour Anti-Bullying

Health and Safety Fire Safety

Complaints Child Protection

Learning and Teaching Looked After Children

Partnerships with Parents Maths and Numeracy

Promoting Positive Behaviour Quality Assurance

Risk Management and Risk

Assessment

Science

Please contact the school office or Head Teacher if you would like more

information about school or local authority policies.

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SECTION 2 – SCHOOL ETHOS

SCHOOL VISION AND AIMS: Learning to Grow, Growing to Learn

At Abbotswell School we want all pupils and staff to be all that they can

be and to achieve success in all that they do.

We aim to ensure that everyone in our school community:

Feels happy, safe and secure

Tries their best

Experiences success

Feels welcomed supported and included

We will achieve this by:

Creating a happy, safe and secure environment where everyone has

an equal opportunity to learn

Listening to opinions of pupils, families, staff and stakeholders to

ensure everyone is valued and included

Nurturing respectful attitudes and cultural understanding by

celebrating individuality and diversity

Celebrating achievement and encouraging all to contribute to the

life of the school

Investing in appropriate resources to support and challenge

learners

Providing an engaging and innovative curriculum which ensures

quality teaching and motivated learners

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ABBOTSWELL BEHAVIOUR CODE

Abbotswell School has developed a behaviour code which has been shared

with and is supported by parents. This code outlines behaviour expected in

school and in the playground. The school rules were drawn up by staff and

pupils:

1. Be polite and show respect to everyone in school.

2. Take care of belongings and school property

.

3. Do as you are asked the first time.

4. Walk quietly in school.

5. Behave sensibly at all times

The code clearly states the rewards pupils can expect if they follow the

rules and the consequences if they choose not to.

A copy of Abbotswell Behaviour Code is issued to all pupils and parents at

the start of each session.

The purpose of the code is to ensure that the school is a happy, caring place

where learning can take place successfully. All staff will do their best to

make sure that standards are maintained but the co-operation of parents is

essential to ensure success.

A copy of the school‟s Behaviour Policy is available for parents to access in

the school office.

BULLYING

All forms of bullying, whether verbal or physical, will not be tolerated at

Abbotswell School. Appropriate action is taken promptly if ever any

incidents occur. A copy of the school‟s Anti-Bullying Policy is available for

parents to access in the school office.

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EXCLUSION

For pupils who repeatedly display behaviours which compromise the good

order of the school, i.e. disruption of learning and teaching, unsafe practices,

bullying and other forms of abuse, and for whom other forms of sanctions

have proved unsuccessful, the local authority exclusion policy will apply. For

further information contact the school office.

SCHOOL AND THE COMMUNITY

At Abbotswell School we recognise the importance of fostering positive

relationships with the local and wider community. Pupils make regular visits

to Kincorth Library and we encourage children to become library members.

We attend South St. Nicholas Church at the end of every term. The

minister makes regular visits to classes and leads assemblies. Pupils have

visited local shops and facilities as part of their projects.

Staff and pupils enjoy sharing their learning with others. Classes make visits

to local care homes such as Margaret Clyne Court and Mark Bush Court. We

have taken part in fundraising activities for Sue Ryder Centre.

We encourage pupils to take responsibility in school – Pupil Council, Junior

Road Safety Officers, Buddies, organising Macmillan Coffee Mornings and

other fundraising events. By providing such opportunities we promote their

role of being responsible citizens in society.

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SECTION 3 – CURRICULUM, ASSESSMENT AND REPORTING

THE CURRICULUM

At Abbotswell School we advocate the principles of A Curriculum for

Excellence where we strive to encourage children to be responsible citizens,

confident individuals, effective contributors and successful learners. Those

principles are:

o Challenge and enjoyment

o Breadth

o Progression

o Depth

o Personalisation and choice

o Coherence

o relevance

Curriculum for Excellence is the Scottish programme which aims to produce

a streamlined educational experience for pupils from 3 to 18 years old.

The Curriculum for Excellence Experiences and Outcomes set out

expectations for learning and development in:

o Languages and Literacy

o Mathematics and Numeracy

o Health and Wellbeing

o Expressive Arts

o Technologies

o Social Studies

o Religious and Moral Education

o Sciences

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Please refer to the Curriculum for Excellence schematic guide at the end of

the handbook for further information. This presents a summary of the

components used to build the 3-18 curriculum, with the learner at the

centre.

At the early stages in school one of our key principles is to teach literacy

and numeracy skills to children to enable them to access the curriculum

independently. These core skills will be taught through a variety of topics.

Each child is an individual and will progress according to their ability and

their needs. There are many cross curricular links between the areas of the

curriculum e.g. language, personal and social development and ICT.

Pupils therefore at times will be taught as a whole class, group or an

individual and are expected to work co-operatively and collaboratively with

each other. Work is differentiated to allow all pupils (more and less able) to

access the curriculum effectively.

Abbotswell has high expectations for all its pupils. We believe that our

pupils should have high expectations of themselves, as should our parents.

Within the varied curriculum we provide equal opportunities for all our

children regardless of ability, gender or race.

LANGUAGES AND LITERACY

Literacy is fundamental to all areas of learning and the skills of

communication are essential in everyday life, not just at school. Our ability

to use language is the key to the development and expression of our

emotions, our thinking and our learning. Pupils entering P.1 have already

learned to communicate orally for a purpose and this is fostered throughout

primary school with opportunities for talk, discussion, giving opinions and

listening to others.

The development of reading skills is also an everyday activity not just

confined to a set reader. Reading instructions, reading for information and

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enjoyment all need to be developed and opportunities for these can arise in

all areas of the curriculum.

You can help your child develop reading skills and a desire to read for

enjoyment by providing books, using the local library, reading stories as well

as discussing any set reading homework.

In P.1 your child will be developing an understanding that stories, messages

and information can be recorded on paper in picture form and this, as well as

attention to detail and relevant points, will be developed before s/he begins

to use written words.

Writing involves a complex variety of skills, e.g. letter formation, spelling,

selecting appropriate words, using the correct grammatical structure,

forming sentences, composing. The learning and understanding of these skills

will be planned and structured in activities which encompass all areas of the

curriculum. By P.7, our aim is that your child will be able to write factually

and imaginatively and be able to select an appropriate style depending on the

purpose of the writing.

As well as competency in listening and talking, reading and writing we

promote, through language and literacy, the development of critical and

creative thinking and the personal, inter-personal and team-working skills

vital for success in life.

As part of the Scottish Government‟s 1+2 initiative, all pupils at Abbotswell

School learn French. As they progress through school, they will have

opportunities to experience other languages and dialects.

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NUMERACY

The main elements of Numeracy are:

Number, Money and

Measure

o Estimation and

rounding

o Number and

number processes

o Multiples, factors

and primes

o Powers and roots

o Time

o Money

o Fractions,

decimal fractions

and percentages

o Measurement

o Patterns and

relationships

o Expressions and

equations

o Impact of Maths

on the world

Shape, Position and

Movement

Properties of 2D and 3D

shapes

Angle, symmetry and

transformation

Information Handling Data and analysis Ideas of chance and

uncertainty

Your child will learn to use and apply the skills and understanding necessary

for everyday needs in a variety of activities, with emphasis on practical

activity, which will provide opportunity for investigation, discussion, practical

problem solving and the sharing of ideas.

TECHNOLOGIES

At Abbotswell School children are encouraged to be creative and innovative.

They will learn about the role of technology and how it has shaped our world.

They will acquire digital literacy skills which will help them present their

work in different ways.

SOCIAL STUDIES

Through Social Studies children develop their understanding of the world by

learning about other people and their values, in different times, places and

environments. They also develop an understanding of their own environment

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and how it has been shaped. As pupils move through the school their

experiences will be broadened using Scottish, British, European and global

contexts for learning.

The Social Studies experiences and outcomes have been grouped thus:

o People, past events and societies

o People, place and environment

o People in society, economy and business

EXPRESSIVE ARTS

By linking experience to imagination and creativity, children learn to express

themselves and to appreciate the expression of others through Art and

Design, Music, Drama and Dance.

SCIENCES

The key concepts in Sciences have been identified as:

o Planet Earth

o Forces, electricity and waves

o Biological systems

o Materials

o Topical science

Through learning in the sciences children develop their interest in, and

understanding of, the living, material and physical world. They take part in

many investigations, working with others, which helps them to develop

important skills to become creative, inventive and enterprising.

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RELIGIOUS AND MORAL EDUCATION

All pupils learn about aspects of Christianity and Other World Religions,

planned using the RME experiences and outcomes. Through planned activities

and discussions the children are also given opportunities to explore Moral

Values.

The school chaplain works closely with the Head Teacher on themes for

church services and assemblies in school. The associate minister works in

classes on a rota basis. Services are held in South St. Nicholas Church to

celebrate Christmas and Easter. Not all assemblies are of a religious nature,

although moral and social aspects are a feature of all assemblies.

Non-denominational assemblies are held regularly in school and are led by

the Senior Management Team, school chaplain and other invited speakers.

Each class is responsible for taking one assembly during the session.

Achievers‟ assemblies are held regularly where pupil and staff successes are

celebrated.

We aim to develop in our pupils an ethos of tolerance, understanding and

respect for the beliefs and customs of others. We are committed to

encouraging pupils‟ development in moral, social and cultural terms.

Parents wishing to exercise their right to withdraw their child from

Religious and Moral Education should contact the Head Teacher.

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HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Learning in health and wellbeing ensures that pupils develop the knowledge

and understanding, skills and capabilities which they need for their own

physical, mental, emotional and social wellbeing.

At Abbotswell School pupils will engage in activities relating to:

o Planning for choices and changes

o Physical education, physical activity and sport

o Mental, emotional, social and physical wellbeing

o Food and health

o Substance misuse

o Relationships, sexual health and parenthood

LEARNING AND TEACHING

Our teaching methods recognise and reflect that each child is an individual

with their own strengths and areas for development. We aim to support

children in reaching their potential. We use a variety of teaching methods to

cater for a range of learning styles.

We make use of the local environment, including local businesses and

recreational facilities. Our aim is to make learning relevant and meaningful

and to promote enthusiasm for lifelong learning.

Not all pupils do the same work at the same time; within any class the

teacher will regularly allocate tasks that are set at different levels of

difficulty. The aim is to challenge all pupils while at the same time giving

them work which is within their capabilities so that each child experiences

success. When undertaking the same task, it is differentiated by outcome

based on the teacher‟s prior knowledge of each child‟s strengths and

abilities.

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ASSESSMENT AND REPORTING

Assessment is an integral part of learning and teaching in Curriculum for

Excellence, helping to provide an emerging picture of a young

person's progress and achievements as they develop the knowledge, skills

and attributes needed for learning, life and work.

At Abbotswell School all staff and pupils follow the principles of Assessment

is for Learning, where pupils are actively involved in determining and

assessing their learning.

Class teachers continually evaluate their teaching and assess each pupil‟s

work to ensure that s/he is coping and making the predicted progress. This

assessment has formal and informal aspects and provides a profile of each

child‟s development. Teachers track pupil progress using the e1 management

information system, where current milestones and projected moves on to

next levels are recorded. Tracking is monitored and reviewed termly by class

teachers and the Senior Management Team. Such information is useful when

children change classes or schools.

All pupils in P.2, P.3, P.5 and P.6 take part in computer based assessments

annually called InCAS. ePIPS for P.1 is carried out on a one-to-one basis at

the beginning and end of the school year. It assesses early reading, early

maths and phonological awareness. In P.2- P.6 the computer-delivered

assessment is carried out by the child on their own once per year. It

assesses reading, maths, vocabulary and developed ability. From August

2017, pupils in P.1, P.4 and P.7 will be undertaking Scottish National

Assessments.

A school report is issued to each pupil in May, during the final term of the

school session. This report gives parents/carers specific information

relating to levels of achievement in certain curricular areas. In other

curricular areas a general summary statement will be made based on the

level of achievement and attitude of the pupil throughout the session.

Parent interviews are held twice each session in October and in May. Parents

are encouraged to discuss their child‟s progress at any time during the

school year. It is advisable to make an appointment for this.

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EDUCATIONAL VISITS

Pupils take part in a variety of educational visits during their time at

Abbotswell School. Hands-on experiences greatly enhance children‟s learning

and put that learning into meaningful contexts. Visits also strengthen the

links between learning in school and life outwith school. Parents are given the

opportunity to accompany classes on trips. We try hard to keep costs to a

minimum and to give parents ample notice if there is a substantial cost.

EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Children are encouraged to take part in a range of extra curricular

activities. Activities are run by school staff, Active Schools and parents on a

voluntary basis. Parents are expected to give their consent before their

child participates. Activities vary from session to session and have included

basketball, football, athletics, tennis, frisbee and craft club. Ideas (and

volunteers) for additional activities are always welcomed.

INSTRUMENTAL TUITION

Tuition is offered in brass, piano, guitar and violin. Parents who are

interested in their child receiving instrumental tuition should contact the

Head Teacher for further information on the current tuition available, the

method of selection and the fees payable.

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SENSITIVE ASPECTS OF THE CURRICULUM

Relationships, Sexual Health and Parenthood

Children learn about relationships, sexual health and parenthood from a wide

range of sources including formal education, parents and families, friends

and the media (magazines, books, TV, games, films, the internet).

Key learning themes from Nursery to P.7 are:

Nursery – P.5

Friendships and relationships

Carers and people who look after us

Respect and appropriate behaviour

Keeping safe

Similarities and differences

The growing body and body parts (correct terminology)

P.6/7

Friends and relationships

Health and wellbeing of others

Changing relationships

Respect and appropriate behaviour

Emotional issues

Puberty and personal hygiene

Keeping safe

Giving birth

Role of a parent/carer

In addition to the above learning areas, the following topics may be

discussed at age appropriate stages:

Physical development

Sexual behaviour

Sexuality and gender

Contraception and safer sex

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Roles and Responsibilities

Parents/Carers

Education begins at home and parents are the first and foremost educators

of their child. Even if parents do not talk with their child about relationships

and sexual health, parental influence will still be strong.

Parents are encouraged to speak to their child about what they are being

taught at school and to actively support the work of the school.

School

We will build supportive and positive communication with parents and deal

with any parental concerns. Resources used in school may be viewed by

parents. Please contact the school for more information. Staff are provided

with appropriate training and support to deliver this area of the curriculum.

Mrs. Brechin, Principal Teacher, is our Health and Wellbeing Co-ordinator.

Using Appropriate Language

We know that families use a range of different names for some parts of the

body. Children are taught the correct name for body parts in school and we

would appreciate it if this was reinforced at home.

In some exceptional circumstances, parents or carers may prefer to deal

with their child‟s relationship and sexual health education themselves. This

should be discussed with Mrs. Brechin or Miss Kerr so that appropriate

alternative arrangements may be made.

For further information about specific resources or programmes of work

please contact the school.

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Drugs Education/Substance Misuse

Teachers refer to Curriculum for Excellence outcomes and to local authority

guidance when planning to deliver Substance Misuse education. At

Abbotswell School we aim to:

o Allow pupils to develop knowledge and understanding about legal and

illegal drugs, their effects and the implications of use and misuse

o Provide opportunities for pupils to develop beliefs, attitudes and

values about drugs

o Enable pupils to develop skills required to make healthy, informed

choices and informed decisions about drugs, including resistance to

peer pressure or influence.

o Link with other components of personal, social and health education to

develop life skills and health promoting lifestyles.

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SECTION 4 – PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT AND SUPPORT FOR PUPILS

PARENT FORUM / COUNCIL

Abbotswell Parent Council was formed in November 2007 in line with

government legislation. It replaced the Parent Teacher Association. All

parents are automatically members of the Parent Forum. The Constitution is

on display at Reception along with details of Parent Council Office Bearers

and Minutes of previous meetings. Parents are notified of forthcoming

meetings through letters, school newsletter and Groupcall reminders.

The Parent Council is actively involved in the life of the school, organising

discos and various fundraising events. Income generated is used to purchase

resources, pay for trip buses and buy bookbags for all new P.1 pupils.

HOME/SCHOOL COMMUNICATION

At Abbotswell School we are keen to maintain excellent and open

communication links with parents and carers and do this in a variety of ways.

Newsletters are sent home regularly giving details of events in school,

important dates, etc. Parents are asked to check school bags as these

letters can go astray.

As part of our self-evaluation process parental views are sought on a number

of issues, for example, behaviour, changes to the school day, parents‟ night,

etc. Parents are invited to comment and submit these to school.

Homework books allow parents and staff to share relevant information about

your child.

In Nursery, at drop off or pick up times, there are daily opportunities to

talk with a member of the Nursery team about your child or to pass on any

important information.

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During the year two parents‟ evenings are held – one in October and one in

May. Pupil reports are issued in May. At least one open day is held during the

session when parents and carers are invited in to see their child at work in

the classroom.

Other means of communication include curriculum evenings, parent

workshops, concerts and fundraising events. Our school website contains a

wealth of information about the school, including individual class blogs.

If at any time you wish to talk with your child‟s class teacher or a member of

the Senior Management Team please telephone the school to arrange an

appointment.

HOMEWORK

The main purpose of homework is to foster home/school links and encourage

you as parents to share in your child‟s learning. Parental interest emphasises

the importance of all work, whatever the task, whether undertaken at home

or at school.

Homework is given to reinforce skills already taught or to undertake

research in connection with a particular topic. No pupil is expected to spend

an inordinate amount of time to completing homework. If you feel that this

is becoming the case then please contact the school. The intention is for

homework to be stress-free for all!

Parents are asked to ensure that text and exercise books are cared for and

are carried to and from school in a suitable bag. Books which are lost or

damaged by mishandling must be replaced or paid for.

When enrolling at Abbotswell School, each child is issued with a copy of the

Homework policy and a home/school contract. Your support is appreciated.

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HEALTH AND SAFETY

Parents should inform the Head Teacher of any infirmity or disability which

may affect the performance of their child. If glasses are required, parents

should ensure that these are worn and brought to school. If broken, repairs

should be carried out as quickly as possible.

Medical inspections are carried out by the school doctor and school nurse.

Parents will be informed of any condition requiring attention. If parents

suspect that their child may have an infection e.g. skin/hair, it would be

appreciated if they would inform the Head Teacher immediately. Any

information will be treated in confidence.

If staff have concerns regarding the health of their pupils, parents will be

consulted with a view to making a referral to the appropriate agency e.g.

Speech and Language, Occupational Therapy etc.

Staff cover various aspects of health education throughout the session.

Upper Stages pupils follow the “Living and Growing” programme and parents

are given the opportunity to view the materials.

Children who become ill or sustain an injury at school will be seen by a

member of staff. If it is thought necessary, to have the child taken home or

to hospital, parents will be contacted as soon as possible.

PLEASE NOTE: all parents must supply the school office with an alternative

address, preferably with a telephone number, which can be contacted in an

emergency. Parents must ensure that this information is kept up to date.

MEDICINES

Short Term Medication

Children receiving regular medication throughout the day for flu, chest

infections, etc. should remain at home until they are fully recovered.

Long Term Medication

There are children who require repeat prescriptions for long term

complaints and may need to have these administered during the school day

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on a regular basis e.g. inhalers. In these cases parents are requested to

inform the school and will be required to complete a medical consent form.

This gives authorisation for the school to dispense medicines and outlines

precise instructions in the amount and frequency of dosage. Forms will be

kept on file for future reference. On no account should tablets or

mixtures be sent to school without the knowledge of the class teacher

and without communication.

TRANSFER TO SECONDARY SCHOOL

Abbotswell School has close links with other primary schools in the area and

with Kincorth Academy.

Throughout their final year at Abbotswell, P.7s have the opportunity to

attend classes at Kincorth Academy and a number of P.7 – S1 link projects

have been developed to ensure a smooth transition into secondary school. P.7

pupils and their parents are invited to an information evening at the

Academy. This is an opportunity to meet some Academy staff and pupils and

to hear about life at secondary school. A visit is arranged in June where

pupils can meet their teachers and follow a sample timetable. We aim to

make this a positive experience for each pupil.

Parents who wish to send their child to another secondary school in the city

are required to complete a placing request form for that school. It is

advisable that parents complete the admission forms for their child‟s zoned

secondary school too as there is no guarantee there will be a place at any

other school.

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CHILD PROTECTION

Given ongoing public concern on the subject of child abuse and changes in the

law, schools are required to report if we think that any child has come to any

harm as a consequence of possible abuse.

Each school has a designated officer appointed to be responsible for Child

Protection matters and is trained for this task. Miss Kerr, Head Teacher, is

the designated officer for Abbotswell School. Should you wish to talk

further about Child Protection and the safety of children please feel free to

contact the Head Teacher.

Where there is a possibility that a child could be at risk of abuse or neglect,

the school is required to refer the child to Social Work, the Police or the

Children‟s Reporter and under these circumstances, the parent would not

normally be consulted first.

ADDITIONAL SUPPORT NEEDS

Additional Support Needs is a broad, inclusive concept which provides a

framework for supporting all children who may meet difficulties in their

learning. The factors which give rise to additional support needs are wide

and varied. Additional support needs may result from:

Family circumstances

Disability or health

Social and emotional well-being

Children in need of care and protection

The learning environment

The staff at Abbotswell have a critical role in identifying such pupils and

seeking extra support where necessary. Additional support may be given by:

Pupil Support Assistant

Sensory Support

Special schools and units

EAL service

Education Psychology Service

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Where a pupil‟s progress causes concern, immediate consultation with

parents will be made. All support sought for a pupil is made in full

consultation with parents/carers.

INCLUSION – statement from Aberdeen City Council

Aberdeen City Council is committed to inclusion and the presumption of

mainstreaming, as set out in the Standards in Scotland‟s Schools Act 2000.

It is the aspiration of Education and Children‟s Services to utilise its

resources and expertise to ensure that almost all children can be supported

in their learning within their local school. All primary and secondary schools

can already provide interventions for children and young people with

additional support needs. Schools can access expertise from a range of

specialist services (see above). A very small number of children may require

access to a more specialised provision for a period of time or access to a

Special School placement. Parents/carers will be fully involved in decisions

about their children – parental views are invaluable in helping to design

appropriate supports.

Schools operate a staged approach to supporting learners. The Staged

Intervention Framework is used to help identify potential barriers to

learning and participation, and plan effectively. Children recognised as being

in need of targetted support will have an individual Education Plan or a Child‟s

Plan put in place. The plan is developed and reviewed in collaboration with

parents, pupils and all agencies involved in providing support.

Levels of support within the staged intervention framework are categorised

as follows:

Universal support is the support delivered by the class teacher through

effective differentiation. When appropriate, the class teacher will be guided

by other professionals in school with particular expertise.

Targetted support is the support delivered by the class teacher and other

school staff. When appropriate, support will be provided by support services

across education and Children‟s Services and will be planned through the

development of a Child‟s Plan.

Specialist/Multi-Agency is the support delivered by the school and others

and is likely to be highly individualised.

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Support given may be short or longer term, but will be reviewed on a regular

basis to make sure each child is making good progress.

GETTING IT RIGHT FOR EVERY CHILD (GIRFEC)

Aberdeen City Council, Police Scotland, NHS Grampian and the Third Sector

are committed to improving services and outcomes for children, young people

and families in Aberdeen. To achieve this everyone involved in working with

children and young people needs to work collaboratively.

Getting It Right For Every Child (GIRFEC) is the Scottish Government‟s

policy that aims to make sure that all children and young people are

supported to achieve their potential by maximizing their wellbeing. It

provides us all with a common approach to working together to deliver better

outcomes for children and to measuring success across all eight wellbeing

indicators set out in the GIRFEC programme (See

www.aberdeengettingitright.org.uk for more information).

The Named Person

The named person is responsible for making sure that every child or young

person has the right support in place to maintain their wellbeing and to

encourage them to reach their developmental potential across each key life

stage. These are not new responsibilities and are within the existing

responsibilities of health practitioners, head teachers or members of the

senior management or pastoral team in a secondary school.

The named person is allocated according to contact with the universal

services. While a child is at Nursery, the named person is their Health

Visitor. From day one at Primary School, the named person is the Head

Teacher.

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EDUCATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY SERVICES

When a pupil is experiencing educational, behavioural, social or emotional

difficulties, the school may refer him/her to this service for additional help.

This is done with parental permission. The school‟s Educational Psychologist

works in partnership with school staff to help ensure children‟s needs are

being met.

SOCIAL WORK

Abbotswell School and the Social Work Department are in close contact to

discuss all matters which may affect the general welfare of all pupils.

CONCERNS AND COMPLAINTS

At Abbotswell School we understand that parents may have concerns about

their child from time to time. If you do have a concern, the class teacher

should be contacted in the first instance. You can contact your child‟s

teacher by either putting your concern in writing or by telephoning the

school to make an appointment. If you feel that your concerns have not been

addressed then you should contact the Head Teacher for further advice.

In line with Aberdeen City Council‟s complaints procedure if you have a

concern which remains unresolved, a formal complaint may be made following

the stages below:

Stage 1

Contact Miss Kerr, Head Teacher, as soon as possible

Stage 2

Write a letter, email or telephone:

Danica Smith, QIO

Marischal College

Business Hub 13, Level 2 North

Broad Street

Aberdeen AB10 1AB

Tel 01224 522174

danismith@aberdeencity.gov.uk

Write a letter to or telephone:

Care Inspectorate

North Region

Johnston House

Rose Street

Aberdeen AB10 1UD

Tel 01224 793870

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Stage 3

Write to:

Angela Scott (Chief Executive)

Aberdeen City Council

Old Town House

Broad Street

Aberdeen AB10 1FY

Tel 01224 522500

Stage 4

Contact the local government ombudsman: Tel 0131 225 5300

SCHOOL PUPILS‟ INSURANCE

It should be noted that no insurance cover is held by Aberdeen City Council

to provide automatic compensation to pupils in the event of a personal

accident or death. It is your responsibility as a parent to insure your child

for personal accident or death if you feel this is appropriate. The Council

does hold third party liability insurance which indemnifies the Council for

claims from third parties (e.g. parents of pupils) who have suffered injury,

illness, loss or damage arising from the negligence of the Council or its

employees. However, if there is no negligence, no claim will be accepted from

the Council.

TRANSFER OF DATA AND DATA PROTECTION

Educational Authorities and the Scottish Government have collected data

about pupils on paper form for many years. We now work together to

transfer data electronically through the ScotXed programme.

What pupil data will be collected and transferred?

Data on each pupil is collected by local authorities and the Scottish

Government. The data collected and transferred covers areas such as date

of birth, postcode, registration for free school meals, whether a pupil is

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looked after by his/her local authority, additional support needs including

disability, attendance, absence, and exclusions from school.

Pupil names and addresses are collected by their school and education

authority but are not passed to the Scottish Government. Your postcode is

the only part of your address that is transferred. Data is held securely and

no information on individual pupils can or would be published by the Scottish

Government. Providing national identity and ethnic background data is

entirely voluntary. You can choose the „not disclosed‟ option if you do not

want to provide this data. However, we hope that the explanations contained

in this handbook will help you understand the importance of providing the

data.

Why do we need your data?

In order to make the best decisions about how to improve our education

service, the Scottish Government and education authorities need accurate,

up-to-date data about our pupils. We are keen to help all our pupils do well in

all aspects of school life and achieve better exam results. Accurate and up-

to-date data allows the Scottish Government, education authorities and

schools to:

• Plan and deliver better policies for the benefit of all pupils

• Plan and deliver better policies for the benefit of specific groups of pupils

• Better understand some of the factors that influence pupil attainment and

achievement

• Target resources better

Your data protection rights

The collection, transfer, processing and sharing of scattered data is done in

accordance with the Data Protection Act (1998). We also comply with the

National Statistics Code of Practice requirements and other legislation

related to safeguarding the confidentiality of data. The Data Protection Act

gives you the right to know how we will use your data. This handbook can give

only a brief description of how we use data. Fuller details of the uses of

pupil data can be found on the ScotXed website (www.scotexed.net).

The Scottish Government works with a range of partners including Education

Scotland and the Scottish Qualifications Authority. On occasion, we will

make individual data available to partners and also academic institutions to

carry out research and statistical analysis. In addition, we will provide our

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partners with information they need in order to fulfill their official

responsibilities. Any sharing of data will be done under the strict control and

prior agreement of the Data Access Panel in the Scottish Government, which

will ensure that no individual level data will be made public as a result of the

data sharing and that these data will not be used to take any actions in

respect of an individual.

Concerns

If you have any concerns about the ScotXed data collections you can

write to The ScotXed Support Office, Scottish Government, Area 1b,

Victoria Quay, Leith, EH6 6QQ.

Alternative versions of this information are available, on request, from

ScotXed Support Office, in other languages, audio tape, Braille and large

print.

Further details about ScotXed data exchanges are available on the

ScotXed website, www.scotexed.net

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SECTION 5 – SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT

STANDARDS AND QUALITY AND IMPROVEMENT PLANNING

Standards and Quality Report

All schools in Scotland are required to report on Standards and Quality and

Improvement Planning on an annual basis. The school submits its Standards

and Quality Report to the Authority around September every year. Parents

are welcome to request a copy of the full report from the school office.

Future plans include making this report available on the school website

(currently under construction). Members of the Parent Council are invited to

comment on and add to this report before it is finalised.

The Standards and Quality Report measures school performance against a

set of national quality indicators and includes information about the main

achievements of the school. The report also evaluates progress on the

school‟s previous year‟s improvement plan e.g. how standards have been

raised in literacy, numeracy and health & wellbeing.

Improvement Planning

In consultation with the Parent Council, the school draws up an improvement

plan on an annual basis, indicating the priorities for school improvement.

National and local authority initiatives and developments also inform the

school improvement plan.

Parents can access comparative information about all Scottish Schools and

their education authorities at

www.educationscotland.gov.uk/parentzone/myschool/findaschool

For further information on national quality indicators go to

www.journeytoexcellence.org.uk/about/keydocuments/part3.asp

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Priorities for Development 2016 – 2018

o School Vision and Aims

o Literacy: Reflective Reading

o Literacy: Phonics and Spelling

o Literacy: Emerging Literacy

o Numeracy: Stages of Early Arithmetical Learning (SEAL)

o Tracking Pupil Progress: Moderation and Assessment

o School and Community

o Self-Evaluation and Quality Assurance

o Policy Development and Planning

o Personal Learning Plans and eProfiles

o Health and Wellbeing: Getting it Right for Every Child (GIRFEC)

o Digital Technologies

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APPENDIX 1

Building the Curriculum 3: A Framework for Learning and Teaching

The Scottish Government, 2008