Brochure 2014-15

Dear Reader Welcome to Chaucer Community Primary School. If your child is joining us for the first time, we welcome you and look forward to a happy and successful association over the coming years. Some of you will already know us in which case we hope to strengthen our existing links with you. This brochure provides information about our school. There will be many experiences and activities offered to your child. We hope that you will be involved in your child’s education, inside and outside the classroom. Please come to school events as often as you can. Help us to help you, help your child. Your child will make many friends at Chaucer - we hope you will too. If, having read this brochure, there is anything about our school you are unsure of or would like to talk about, please come and see us and we will be happy to help you. We hope you will soon get to know us well and that your child will be happy and enjoy life at Chaucer. Yours sincerely

Peter Gerrish Headteacher

Please note that the information contained in this brochure relates to the life and work of our school during the year 2014/2015. We have tried to be as accurate as possible.

If changes occur during the year we will do our utmost to ensure that you are kept informed.

Chaucer Community Primary School

Chaucer Road Fleetwood Lancashire FY7 6QN Tel: (01253) 873795

Headteacher: Mr P. A. Gerrish email: [email protected]

website: www.chaucer.lancs.sch.uk

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.chaucer.lancs.sch.uk

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CONTENTS

School Governors 3

Our School 4

Our Aims 5

Smoking Policy 6

Staff 6

School Day 7

Breaktimes 7

Milk and Fruit 7

Lunchtime Arrangements 8

School Rules 9

The Curriculum 10

Homework 10

Uniform 11

Special Educational Needs 12

Sex and Relationships Education 12

Sport 12

Social and Pastoral care 13

Child Protection 14

Care and Control 14

Access to Information 14

Parental Involvement 14

School Council 14

Assessment 15

Teaching Hours 15

Equal opportunities 15

Absence 16

Extra-Curricular Activities 16

Newsletters 16

Charging Policy 17

Insurance 18

General Information 19

PTFA 19

Holiday Dates 20/21

The best way to prepare for life is to begin to live. Elbert

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“He who has imagination without learning, has wings and no feet.”

CHAIR: Mr D Mitchell (C) VICE CHAIR: Miss K Thompson (P) Miss K Bell (T) Mr M Greene (P) Mrs S Brooke (T) Mr P Gerrish (HT) Mrs K Heywood (S) Mr D Hepworth (C) Mr D Mitchell (C) Canon J Hall (C) Miss L Green (L) Mr G Fox (P) Mr M J Darlington (L) Mrs J Merris Mrs J Brand (L)

(L) - Local Authority appointment

(C) - Community (appointed by governors) (S) - Staff (elected by non-teaching staff) (T) - Teachers (elected by teaching staff) (P) - Parents (elected by parents and carers of children attending the school) (HT) - Head Teacher

Currently the governing body is comprised of: Local Authority 3 Teachers 2 Parents 3 Staff 1 Community 3 Head Teacher 1

SCHOOL GOVERNORS The Governing Body is a composition of local council representatives, community representatives, parents, non-teaching members of staff and teachers of the school. The governors, who meet at least once a term, have a range of responsibilities for the school. They are appointed to help:

decide what is taught set standards of behaviour interview and appoint staff decide how the school budget is set

The minutes of each governors meeting are kept in school and are available to interested parents. A list of governors and their photographs are displayed in the school entrance. Anyone wishing to contact the governors can do so through the school.

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OUR SCHOOL

Chaucer Community Primary School was formed in September 1984 following the amalgamation of Blakiston Infant and Chaucer Junior Schools. From 1st September 1999, in line with the School Standards and Framework Act, our name changed to Chaucer Community Primary School.

Chaucer is a two—form entry school in which approximately 320 children aged 3 to 11 years are educated. The Nursery Class, which opened in 1988 in a purpose built unit attached to the school, caters for 52 three to four year old children attending part-time. You may add your child’s name to the admission book at 2 years. Full details of our Nursery Admission Policy can be obtained from the Head Teacher.

School is currently organised into eleven classes, there being a Foundation Stage and mixed age classes in Years 1 & 2, Years 3 & 4 and 5 & 6. Most of the work is undertaken in classes, although occasionally small groups may be withdrawn for specialist teaching. Within the building the Foundation Stage and Infant Department (Key Stage 1) use the ground floor classrooms and the Juniors (Key Stage 2), the first floor. At playtimes the Infants use the Chaucer Road playground and the Juniors the Tennyson Road side of school.

The Standard Admission Number for Chaucer School is 45, and places are normally allocated firstly to children who have a brother or sister already attending the school. Places are then allocated on a geographical basis with preference given to those children who live nearest to the school. Occasionally a child may be offered a place if there are special social or medical reasons that suggest Chaucer School is the best setting for the child. The Local Authority is responsible for the selection procedure and not the school governors. If the school is over subscribed, the Local Authority’s Admission Policy is followed.

Parents may appeal to an independent tribunal if refused a place.

“Pupils’ good behaviour supports their learning” - Ofsted September 2009

“A calm and welcoming atmosphere pervades the school and pupils respond well to the care and

support they receive, so that they feel safe and enjoy lessons “ - Ofsted September 2009

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As a primary school catering for children aged 3 to 11, we see education as a partnership between school and home, building upon the pre-school years of a child’s life.

We aim:

to develop good relationships within the school community where the staff, both teaching and non-teaching, treat all children as individuals and develop their academic, social, physical and aesthetic potential to the full;

to provide a stimulating environment - one to which every child will want to come and feel happy, confident and secure through participation in all aspects of school life;

to create an environment in which all children have an equal opportunity to develop and succeed;

to encourage children to accept and practise the concepts of truth and honesty;

to develop lively, enquiring minds with a thirst to learn;

to develop self-awareness and self-confidence, leading to self-discipline, courtesy and consideration for others;

to provide all children with the skills, concepts, knowledge, values and attitudes appropriate to their stage of development and aptitude;

to teach good habits of work and to give children a firm foundation in the various subjects of the curriculum in preparation for life;

to generate and encourage high expectations amongst all members of the school community so that a “can do” ethic underpins all aspects of school life;

to generate co-operation and healthy competition between pupils in academic, sporting and creative aspects of work.

to welcome parents into school encouraging them to share the responsibility of their child’s development and progress.

At Chaucer we consider children as our gift to the future. Thus, we wish to de-velop individuals with character and personality who will have the knowledge, skills

“Pupils enjoy learning and are attentive and engaged in lessons. They especially enjoy working with partners and in groups, developing social skills that will serve them well in the future” - Ofsted September 2009

“Pupils very responsible attitude towards keeping healthy are reflected in the high numbers who enjoy taking part in sporting activities and the sensible eating choices they make at lunchtimes” - Ofsted September 2009

Our Aims

“Enjoy challenge, experience success!”

Our school is a place where all individuals are valued and treated with respect and courtesy irrespective of their age, gender, race, nationality, cultural background or lifestyle. Our school is committed to provide all pupils with teaching and support of the highest possible quality, within a safe and welcoming environment. Chaucer School is a learning community providing both challenge and enjoyment within a partnership of parents, family members and representatives of the local and wider community.

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Smoking

In line with legislation the school operates a TOTAL NO SMOKING POLICY throughout its premises. This applies to all staff and visitors and includes all outside areas contained

SCHOOL STAFF

Headteacher: Mr P Gerrish Assistant Headteachers: Mr L Anyon Mrs H Dixon Teachers: Miss K Bell Miss J Howorth Miss L Porter Mrs S Jolley Mrs S Brooke Mrs C Mitchell Miss N Glenn Mrs E Atherton Mrs C Haddow Miss J Mulholland Miss L Soper Mr M Walsh Mrs J Norbury Higher Level Teaching Mrs J Jones Mrs M Thistleton Assistants / Nursery Nurses: Mrs C Coulbeck Special Support Assistants/ Mrs A Logue Miss T Kelly Teaching Assistants: Mrs A Blundell Mrs D Mitchinson Mrs M Brown Miss G Richardson Mrs K Jones Mrs S Boe Mrs S Hogg Mrs C Atkinson Mrs A Taylor Mrs J Scott Mrs K Heywood Mrs S Whittaker Mrs C Kendrick Mrs K Davies Miss H Clarke Mrs D Mist

Family Learning Mentor: Ms A Regan School Business Manager: Mrs C Jackson Attendance Manager: Mrs C Ayres Business Support Officer: Miss V Dowsing Site manager Mr C Jones + 5 Cleaners Senior Mid-day Supervisor Mrs S Latus + 5 Welfare Assistants

Cook In Charge Mrs K Hartley +2 Kitchen Staff Crossing Patrol John

“The important thing is not so much that every child should be taught, as that every child should be given the wish to learn.” John Lubbock

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ORGANISATION OF THE SCHOOL DAY

Times

Nursery: 8.45 - 11.45 12.15 – 3.15

Reception, Infants & Juniors: 8.55 - 12:15 1.15 – 3.15

Children should not arrive at school before 8.45, at which time the school doors will be open and they can make their way to their classrooms. Parents with Reception children are initially welcome to bring their children to the classroom.

Currently the school serves breakfast from 8.15 a.m. for any child or parent who would like to take it. The school kitchen serves hot and cold drinks, cereal, toast, crumpets, teacakes and fruit for a small charge. Children and adults wishing to have breakfast should enter the dining ar-ea through the entrance on the Tennyson Road side of the building.

Registers are taken at 8.55 a.m. and 1.15 p.m. Any child arriving at school up to 15 minutes after these times will be recorded as late. Registers close at 9.10 a.m. and 1.30 p.m. Pupils arriving after these time will be recorded as having an unauthorised absence from school for the session unless there is a satisfactory reason for the lateness.

It is the responsibility of all adults with parental responsibility to ensure their children arrive at school on time and ready to commence work.

If you bring your child(ren) to school or collect them by car do not park on the “zig zag” lines for however short a time.

Breaktimes Except when the weather is bad, the children are expected to play outside during playtimes and lunchtimes, so adequate outdoor clothing is essential. During wet playtimes the pupils are encouraged to experience purposeful activities in the classroom. Children use a variety of playground equipment/games during the morning and afternoon breaks. Infant children have a break during the course

of the morning and afternoon. Junior children have a mid-morning break only.

Milk and Fruit If parents wish, infant children are provided with a carton of milk at morning break which is subsidised by the Eu-ropean Union. All Nursery and Infant children receive a

piece of fruit each day. There is no charge to

parents. Children are allowed to bring a piece of fruit or a healthy snack to eat during the morning break

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LUNCHTIME ARRANGEMENTS

At lunchtime, your child may stay for a school meal, bring a packed lunch or go home.

School Lunch

Our catering staff cook meals on the premises and the children are provided with a choice of menu. Each child is provided with an order slip in the previous week so they may choose the meal they prefer. Any child who does not pre-order their meal will automatically be provided with the main meal cooked on that day. We run a cafeteria system. Each child collects a full meal and drink on a tray and takes it to a convenient table in the dining hall. There is excellent welfare supervision throughout the whole of the lunchtime period.

Dinner Money

Currently the cost of a school meal is £2.20per day (£11.00 per week) School dinners are paid for in advance and money collected only on a Friday morning. If you choose to pay by cheque, please make the cheque payable to “Lancashire County Council”. Money should be sent into school in a sealed envelope clearly marked with your child’s name and class.

Free School Meal Entitlement for Foundation/KS1 pupils from September 2014 All pupils in Foundation and Key Stage 1 are entitled to a free school meal from September. However, it is important for school that parents/carers of pupils who were previously in receipt of one of the qualifying welfare benefits continue to register their entitlement. Forms for this are available from the school office.

Parents of older pupils in school, who feel their child may qualify for free meals should contact the Lancaster Area Education Office or the school office for further details. Their name, address and telephone number appear on page 13 of this brochure. If your child is entitled to a meal, with-out charge, you may be assured that he or she will not be treated differently in any way from those who pay.

It is helpful to the school to know of all the children who are entitled to a meal, without charge, even if parents decide not to take up their entitlement. As our school budget is partly determined by the number of children entitled to a meal without charge we may, periodically, ask parents for information on school meal entitlement to help ensure the school attracts the funding it is entitled to. Packed Lunches

If you prefer your child to bring a packed lunch, please make sure that all containers are unbreakable and clearly named. Packed lunches are eaten in the packed lunch room. Where possible, packed lunch boxes are stored outside the classrooms until required. Children are encouraged to place uneaten food back in their lunchbox so that parents can see what their child has eaten.

Chaucer is part of the national “Healthy Schools Programme”. We respectfully ask that children do not bring fizzy drinks because they have a habit of “exploding” all over the place when opened. Children should be provided with healthy, nutritious food which they enjoy, parents know they will eat and will set up the child for afternoon lessons. Please do not provide sweets.

Change of lunchtime arrangements can only be made after we have received at least one weeks notice, preferably in writing.

The school employs a team of welfare staff to supervise the children during lunchtime. These staff are supported by teachers, senior staff and the Family Learning Mentor. There is an expectation that children will behave reasonably during the lunchtime period. Children are allowed to remain on the school premises but this privilege will be withdrawn and children will be expected to be taken home for lunch if their behaviour during lunchtime impairs the good order of the school and adversely effects the welfare of pupils or school employees.

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E V E R Y

D A Y M A T T E R S !

CODE OF CONDUCT

The basis of our policy is set out in a few very simple rules. These rules are presented to parents in the Home – School Agreement. Parents are asked to read and sign the Home - School Agreement to show they agree to support the school in dealing with any behaviour problems.

The Rules

At Chaucer Community Primary School:

We will be kind to each other. We will always walk about the school. We will talk quietly inside the school. We will take care of everything in the

school. We will try our best with our work.

These simple rules incorporate the principles of consideration for others, safety and taking pride in work.

Classroom Rules

Alongside these school rules, each class has its own set of rules, which are drawn up in discussion between the children and their teachers. This encourages the children to feel an ownership of the rules.

Rights and Responsibilities

Adults have the right to: Children have the right to: * teach the lesson they have prepared * learn in all lessons * be listened to * be listened to * be treated with respect * be treated with respect * feel safe in school **********************************************************************************

In accordance with the policy of Lancashire County Council there is no corporal punishment in our school.

“The only person who is educated is the one who has learned how to learn... and change. “ Carl Rogers

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THE SCHOOL CURRICULUM

We aim to give each child a broad and balanced education with a strong focus on developing the essential skills of literacy and numeracy so important in later life. In doing so we hope to de-velop fully the special and unique abilities and skills which each child possesses. We intend work to be interesting, relevant and enjoyable whilst striving for excellence in all we do. Work is planned to cater for the needs of each child, to develop their intellectual, social, moral, spiritual, physical and aesthetic potential.

Opportunities will be provided to enable each child to develop skills and interests within the classroom and outside, by visits and extra curricular activities.

Throughout the course of the year the class teachers arrange a number of educational visits and we encourage all children to participate. To make these visits viable we rely upon voluntary donations from parents. Without parental interest and financial commitment these exciting and worthwhile activities cannot be undertaken.

The Curriculum is largely designed to follow the programmes of study set out in the National Cur-riculum.

The subjects taught as the National Curriculum Core Subjects are English, Mathematics and Science.

Others are the National Curriculum Foundation subjects of Art, Geography, History, Music, Physical Education, Design Technology and Information and Communication Technology. In addition, your child will study Religious Education, which will reflect a broadly Christian tradition. Please note that separate provision will be made for pupils whose parents/carers wish to withdraw them from worship/religious education.

Often these subjects are taught in a thematic approach so that some lessons will develop the skills and knowledge of more than one curriculum area.

Homework

Homework is a vital part of your child’s learning whilst at primary school and it is set regularly. The amount of ‘homework’ in broad terms is as follows: Years 1 and 2 1 hour a week (reading, spelling, other literacy work and number work) Years 3 and 4 1.5 hours a week (literacy and numeracy as for Years 1 and 2 and with occasional assignments in other subjects) Years 5 and 6 30 minutes a day (regular weekly schedule with continued emphasis on literacy and numeracy but also ranging widely over the curriculum) It is expected that parents will fully support and encourage their children in the completion of homework through:

being aware of what homework has been set; providing time and space for your child to complete the homework; showing an interest in homework by checking it has been done and talking to your child

about it; ensuring it is returned on time.

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E V E R Y

D A Y M A T T E R S !

SCHOOL UNIFORM

The governors of the school believe that school uniform makes a positive contribution to teaching and learning by encouraging positive attitudes and values. All pupils are seen to be equal and not viewed differently because of parents’ abilities to buy designer type clothing. The school uniform identifies pupils as belonging to the Chaucer “family”. Also uniform is associated with school and school life just as other uniform is associated with different activities in other walks of life. Children are expected to wear their uniform with pride and understand that even when outside of school it is important to uphold the values of the school especially whilst wearing the uniform. Parents are expected to ensure their children are sent to school in clean uniform and that it is being worn appropriately. Whilst understanding that children may wish to follow current fashion trends it is expected that hair styles will be generally traditional. Any style that attracts undue attention should be avoided. The main items of uniform are available from school or locally. It comprises: White shirt Black and gold diagonally striped tie Black sweatshirt/cardigan with embroidered logo Dark Grey shorts, trousers / skirt or pinafore dress Grey or white socks Black shoes

During the summer months girls may wear yellow gingham dresses with white socks and sandals. Training shoes are not part of the school uniform and therefore are not to be worn in class although they may be worn for Games lessons. P.E. Kit Each child should have a pump bag containing: A pair of black shorts Plain, dark yellow T-shirt Pair of pumps (pull-on for Infants)

Trousers, skirts, dresses, shirts, T-shirts, shorts, socks, pumps, shoes etc may be purchased inexpensively from local traders. P.E. kit should be taken home at least each half-term for washing.

Nursery Uniform is a white polo shirt, yellow sweatshirt and grey fleece with embroidered logo. These can be obtained from our Nursery.

“An ounce of action is worth a ton of theory.” Friedrich Engels

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Special Educational Needs ( S E N ) and Inclusion

Staff regard all children as special, however there are some children for whom additional provision is necessary. Children who are identified as having possible special educational needs are referred to the Inclusion Manager, who will assist the class teacher in providing work matched to the child’s needs. This is in line with our Special Needs Policy and the national Code of Practice.

Chaucer aims to provide children with the opportunity to make full use of their potential. We aim to provide all children with learning opportunities that will enable them to develop their learning skills, raise their self-esteem and develop a positive image.

If it is considered that we need extra advice, support or help, this matter will be discussed with the child’s parents.

No child will be referred to any external agen-cy without obtaining parental consent.

Our Inclusion Manager is Mr M Walsh.

Sex Education The general policy of the school is that the content and organisation of sex education is incorporated in the general teaching programme and that questions will be answered in the context in which they arise, and in a manner appropriate to the child’s age. Parents are informed of any specific projects of sex and relationship education and are invited to view the video pro-grammes to be shown to the children. Parents have the right to withdraw their children from all or part of the sex education programme except those parts required by the Science National Curriculum. Any con-cerns should be discussed with the head

teacher.

Sport

At Chaucer we encourage children to take part in traditional team games. As such, we have football, netball, tag rugby and kwik cricket teams. The children compete in district leagues, giving them the opportunity to play against other schools. These fixtures generally take place after normal school hours. We also take part in swimming galas, and rounders tournaments. Games skills are taught to all the children as part of their PE curriculum. We have the sole use of an all-weather surface and whenever possible we make use of sport coaches and the sporting interests and specialisms brought to school by parents. We believe that it is important for children to participate in competitive sport. To take part is considered most important - to win is a bonus.

This does not form the complete curriculum, and other areas such as health education, personal and social education, road safety education, moral and multi-cultural issues will be included as and when considered appropriate.

“Imagination is more important than knowledge. Knowledge is limited. Imagination encircles the world.” Albert Einstein

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E V E R Y D A Y

M A T T E R S

SOCIAL AND PASTORAL CARE

The social and emotional development of all children is carefully monitored during their time in school. Class teachers together with the head teacher are responsible for the pastoral care of children in their classes. When dealing with anti-social behaviour we act as you would expect responsible parents to act under similar circumstances. Problems are dealt with sympathetically and when necessary, parents are involved to resolve the matter effectively. If there is anything that you feel may be affecting your child’s education, please contact school and make an appointment to discuss the matter in the first instance with the class teacher or if the issue is not resolved to your satisfaction with the head teacher. When a child joins us at Chaucer, parents are asked to supply details of where they can be contacted during the day in case of accident or illness. If an emergency should arise we will make every effort to contact parents or their nominated representative, and inform them of the problem. Please ensure that you inform the school of any change in your emergency contact details— - especially mobile telephone numbers! Occasionally where adults who share parental responsibility live sep-arately we are asked to send out duplicate letters. We will attempt to do this with all important communications such as reports, details of parental consultation events and school trips. If we can be given an email address for the second adult this will help us save on postal fees. Please do not send children to school if they are unwell, or you suspect that they may become unwell during the school day. There is no nurse in school and staff are not allowed to issue medication to the pupils. Parents must make arrangements to administer medicines during the school day for short-term illnesses. If your child suffers from a chronic medical condition that requires the administering of medication on a long-term basis the school will make arrangements for a “care-plan” to be drawn up with the assistance of the school nurse. In these cases arrangements will be made for medicines to be adminis-tered by designated school staff. Children who need to use an inhaler should have access to their medication at all times. They should remember to take their inhaler to the hall for P.E, and off-site when going to games lessons, swim-ming and trips and visits.

“Good relationships throughout the school ensure that pupils feel well looked after and valued.” OfSTED Report: December 2006

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Child Protection

Under the local child protection procedures, the head teacher is the named person who deals with child protection issues and is assisted in this role by the Family Learning Mentor. A member of the Governing Body is also nominated to monitor these arrangements and ensure the school is carrying out its statutory duties and responsibilities.

Because of the day to day contact with children, schools are particularly well placed to observe outward signs of abuse, changes in behaviour or failure to develop. Families should be aware that where it appears to a member of staff that a child may have been abused, the school is statutorily required, as part of the local Child Protection Procedures, to report their concern to the Social Services Department immediately.

Care and Control

If staff become aware of, or have a need to become involved in situations where a child may be at risk of hurting themselves or others, or if their behaviour seriously disrupts good order in the school or causes damage to property, staff may need to take steps to intervene physically. In such circumstances staff will follow the school’s policy for dealing with such situations. This policy may be viewed on request.

Access to Documents and Information/Complaints

and Suggestions

Should you wish to see them, the head teacher will provide you with access to policy documents, curriculum policy docu-ments, curricular records relating to your child, all Department for Children, Schools and Families circulars held and schemes of work currently used by teachers in school.

If you have any complaints or observations about the school please come and discuss them with the person concerned or the head teacher. If the problem cannot be solved a copy of Local Authority’s Com-plaints Procedure is available in school.

We welcome ideas from parents on how we can improve our school. We send out a Parental questionnaire annually. Please complete and return this as it helps us plan for further improvement. Please do not be afraid to talk to us.

Parental Involvement

‘Parent helpers’ are welcome throughout the

school and we are very keen to encourage as many parents and interested adults as possible to become directly involved in the life of the school and their child’s education. Any skills or talents you can offer in or out of school time will be welcome. Any adult employed, or acting in a voluntary capacity, in school and having access to children without the direct supervision of a teacher will be required to have CRB clearance. If you are interested in helping in school, please contact your child’s teacher. All parents are given the opportunity to discuss their child’s progress with the class teacher. We hold an open evening in the Autumn and Spring terms and appointment times enable you to have a ‘private talk’ about your child with the teacher. On other occasions, if you wish to see a member of staff or the Head Teacher, it is helpful to make an appointment to arrange a mutually convenient time.

School Council

We are very proud of our elected school council that consists of two representatives from each class. The council meets every month and provides an op-portunity for children to express their views about the school. The views of pupils are considered by teachers, senior management and the governing body when making decisions about the school.

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E V E R Y

D A Y M A T T E R S

Assessment

The National Curriculum sets attainment targets for all children. For each subject the targets are divided into levels. These levels are the same for all children throughout the country. The levels gradually get harder so as to stretch the child’s potential as they get older and learn more. As a primary school we are concerned with Foundation Stage, and Key Stages 1 and 2. Foundation Stage 4 – 5 year olds KS1 5 - 7 year olds KS2 7 - 11 year olds

At age 7 your child could be at level W, 1, 2 or 3 when tested or assessed. A ‘typical’ 7 year old will be at level 2 and would be expected to move up one level every two years. At the end of Year 6 a typical 11 years old should be working at Level 4.

Testing of the National Curriculum is in two parts:

i Teacher Assessment which is based upon the teacher’s knowledge of a child’s classroom work.

ii. National Curriculum Tests which are national tests.

At the end of the Summer Term you will receive a written report containing teachers’ comments about your child, together with levels at the end of each Key Stage. (Yr 2 and Yr 6). The school sets a range of tests and assessments at different times during the year to assist the teachers in monitoring progress and deciding what your child’s next steps and targets in learning should be. Unvalidated outcomes in Statutory Assessment Tasks for 2014 were as follows:

KEY STAGE 1 KEY STAGE 2

% at level 2 and above

National % at level 4 and above

National

Reading 88% 89% Reading 89% 86%

Writing 86% 85% Writing 86% 84%

Maths 93% 91% Maths 86% 85%

Teaching Hours per Week

The number of teaching hours per week, excluding daily acts of worship, registration times and breaks is: Key Stage 1 - 21.0 hours

Equal Opportunities

In line with our Equal Opportunities Policy, Chaucer C.P. School stands against racism and sexism and all forms of discrimination on the grounds of ethnic origin, gender, religion or disability.

“The direction in which education starts a man will determine his future life.” Plato

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Absences

In accordance with regulations, we record authorised and unauthorised absences. Such information is reported to the Department for Children, Schools and Families and is monitored by the Education Welfare Service. It is therefore most important that you let us know on each occasion why your child is absent from school.

It helps us to be informed of a child’s absence as soon as the absence commences, either by telephone, written or verbal message. In this way, we know why your child is not at school. This should be followed up with a note on your child’s return to school.

Please send a note or telephone message to the class teacher if your child is going to be absent or will arrive late because of an appointment with the doctor, dentist, clinic, etc. If this is not possible because of an ‘emergency’ appointment, please let us know when your child returns to school.

Pupil progress is undoubtedly hindered by absence from school and parents should balance the benefits of cheaper holidays, in term time, with the damage caused to a child’s chances of making good progress at school by avoidable absence.

Please note that due to the Government amending key legislation relating to the authorised leave of absence for school children, leave of absence requested for holidays will be recorded as unauthorised on the attendance register and could be subject to a Penalty notice being issued by the Local Authority.

Extra Curricular Activities

The school staff organise various extra curricular activities which widen the ed-ucational experience of our children. These activities will vary from time to time depend-ing on the age of the children, the time of year and the interests / involvement of staff.

Activities planned this year include::

Multi Skills Club Swimming Gala Football Tri-Golf Expressive Arts Choir Story Sack Club Tag Rugby Dance Club Cookery Club

NEWSLETTERS

Regular newsletters, “What’s New?” are sent out with the children. They will keep you in-formed of what is happening in school and give you details of specific events and projects. Other information is sent out through the “pupil post” route or “Parentmail” if you have notified school of an up to date email address. Please check with your child for any communication sent home and find time to read the information and do ask for further details if anything is unclear.

“The most valuable of all education is the ability to make yourself do the thing you have to do, when it has to be done, whether you like it or not.” Aldous Huxley

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CHAUCER COMMUNITY PRIMARY SCHOOL CHARGING - POLICY

VOLUNTARY CONTRIBUTIONS

The Governing Body recognises the valuable contribution that the wide range of additional activities, including clubs, trips and residential experience can make toward pupils personal and social education.

The Governing Body aims to promote such activities as part of a broad curriculum for the pupils of the school and as additional optional activities.

The law clearly states that education provided during school hours must be free of charge. The Governing Body wish to act within this law.

These activities do involve expense - transport costs, entrance fees, etc. There are no specific monies available to enable the school to promote these activities. To ensure that these activi-ties can take place it will be necessary to ask for voluntary parental contributions (i.e. volun-tary contributions from the parents of the children taking part in that particular activity). If sufficient contributions are not forthcoming, it may be necessary to cancel the activity.

The Governing body appreciates that

1. there is no obligation for parents to contribute; 2. pupils will not be omitted from the activity if their parents are unwilling or unable to pay the voluntary contribution; 3. only the unit cost of the trip plus an administration cost will be charged.

BOARD AND LODGING ON RESIDENTIAL VISITS

We presently offer a range of outdoor residential visits. These include:

Year 4, 5 & 6 Activity Centre Visit Year 3, 4, 5 & 6 School Camp

It is the school’s policy that a charge should be made for board and lodging arising from residential activities. It is a statutory requirement that charges must be remitted in respect of pu-pils whose parents are in receipt of Free School Meals where the activity is deemed to take place in school hours, or, if it is out of school hours, is organised to fulfil statutory duties relating to the na-tional curriculum or to religious education.

A charge will continue to be made for board and lodging in respect of pupils attending the Local Authority’s own Outdoor Pursuits and Field Study Centres with charges being remitted in part for those pupils who are eligible to receive education welfare benefits. Parents in receipt of Free School Meals will be asked to make a voluntary contribution in respect of transport cost incurred by the school.

INDIVIDUAL TUITION IN THE PLAYING OF A MUSICAL INSTRUMENT

A charge will be made for the cost of providing individual instruction in the playing of a musical instrument. This is a separate contract which parents may enter into with the Lancashire Schools’ Music Service

CHARGES FOR MATERIALS

It is the Governors’ policy that the school will provide or pay for any ingredients, materials,

equipment etc. which are needed for practical subjects such as food technology, craft and design .

Page 18

LANCASHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL INSURANCE ARRANGEMENTS

The County Council’s insurance arrangements in relation to children and parents are as follows:

1. The County Council’s liability insurance arrangements provide protection for the County Council in respect of claims for compensation made by any person suffering bodily injury or damage to property due to some act or error of the County Council. These arrangements are in respect of the County Council’s legal liabilities only, and it should be noted that the County Council does not automatically accept liability for any injury or damage which may oc-cur as it would have to be proved that the County Council was legally responsible for the injury or damage suffered, i.e. it was at fault. 2. Where an injury or damage to property arises

due to some act or neglect of a third party (i.e. some person or organisation other than the County Council) any resultant claim for compensation would have to be directed towards the third party and not the County Council. 3. If a person suffers a bodily injury where no-one is at fault there would be no legal grounds for pursuing a claim for compensation against either the County Council or a third party.

However, this is a risk which can be covered by a Personal Accident Insurance Policy which pro-vides limited benefits in respect of injuries suffered by the insured person, regardless of legal liability. Parents could arrange such cover on a general ‘all risk’ basis applicable throughout the year or specifically for a particular event (e.g. a school visit/holiday). It is understood that the National Confederation of Parent Teacher Associations has such insurance available; in any event, advice could be obtained from an insurance broker or insurance company.

Please note: It is possible that you might be asked/volunteer to transport children, other than your own, to and from other schools for sporting fixtures etc. Before you agree to this, please check that your car insurance allows for this exten-sion of cover and you complete a decla-ration form which can be obtained from

the school.

Page 19

Leaving the school premises for

appointments

Please notify us if your child has to leave school for an appointment during the school day. All children must be collected from school and will only be released to make their own way home if we have a written request

Water Bottles

It is known that children perform better if they are well hydrated. To encourage children to drink more water, Y1 to Y6 children may bring a bottle of water from home for their use

during the day. The bottle must have a ‘sports’

drinking top and be clearly labelled with your child’s name.

Jewellery

For safety, the only jewellery to be worn by the children is a watch. Ear-rings are not permitted and if a child comes to school wearing earrings, they will be asked to remove them. This is in line with L.C.C. Health and Safety Policy. We appreciate that pupils with recently pierced ears may need to wear studs during the healing process. This is allowed but they will be asked to cover the stud with tape during P.E. or Games lessons. The responsibility for the safe keeping of any item of jewellery remains with the child at all times.

Mobile Phones

Children are not permitted to bring mobile phones to school for general use. It is acknowledged that in certain circumstances there may be a need for a child to have access to a mobile phone. On these occasions permission to bring a mobile phone to

school will need to be obtained from the head teacher and the mobile phone will be stored in the school office and given to the child

P.T.F.A.

The Parent, Teachers and Friends Association arrange various family occasions and fund rais-

ing events. Over the years they have raised a considerable amount of money that has been used to buy many items which would otherwise be beyond our means. Their efforts always provide the children with a memorable Christmas! All parents are automatic members of the P.T.F.A. and we hope that you will support their activities. Please see details of P.T.F.A. events on the school notice board.

School Information Profile and Website Further information about the school is be available online through the school’s own website at www.chaucer.lancs.sch.uk and the School Information Profile.

Page 20

E V E R Y

D A Y

M A T T E R S !


Holiday List 2014- 2015 AUTUMN TERM 2014 Staff Training Days: Thursday 4

th & Friday 5

th September 2014

School re-opens on: Monday 8

th September 2014

Mid Term Closure: Monday 27

th October to

Friday 31st October 2014 (inclusive)

Staff Training Day: Monday 3

rd November 2014

School re-opens on: Tuesday 4

th November 2014

School closes at: Friday 19

th December 2014 (3:15 pm)

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. SPRING TERM 2015 School re-opens on: Monday 5

th January 2015


th February to

Friday 20th February 2015 (inclusive)


rd February 2015


th February 2015


th March 2015 (3:15pm)

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. SUMMER TERM 2015 School re-opens: Monday 13

th April 2015

May Day Closure: Monday 4

th May 2015

Staff Training Day: Friday 22

nd May 2015


th May to

Friday 29th May 2015 (inclusive)


st June 2015

School closes at: Thursday 23

rd July 2015 (3:15 pm)

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

Page 21

E V E R Y

D A Y

M A T T E R S !


Holiday List 2015 - 2016 AUTUMN TERM 2015 Staff Training Days: Monday 7

th September 2015

School re-opens: Tuesday 8

th September


th October to

Friday 30th October 2015 (inclusive)


nd November 2015


rd November 2015


th December 2015 (3:15 pm)

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. SPRING TERM 2016 Staff Training Day: Monday 4

th January 2016


th January 2016


th February to

Friday 19th February 2016 (inclusive)


nd February 2016

School closes at: Thursday 24

th March 2016 (3:15pm)

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. SUMMER TERM 2016 School re-opens: Monday 11

th April 2016

May Day Closure: Monday 2

nd May 2016


th May to

Friday 3rd

June 2016 (inclusive)

School re-opens on: Monday 6th June 2016


nd July 2016 (3:15 pm)

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

Additional twilights in lieu of Monday 25 and Tuesday 26th July 2016 Monday 5th October X 2 hours Monday 9th November X 2hours Monday 1st February X 2 hours Monday 7th March X 2 hours Monday 11th April X 2 hours Monday 9th May X 2 hours