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Secondary Student and Parent Handbook2018-2019
CONTANTS
INTRODUCTION 5
OUR SCHOOL 6
SCHOOL MISSION 7SHARED BRITISH AND INTERNATIONAL VALUES 7CHARACTER EDUCATION 7INTERNATIONALISM AND INTERCULTURALISM 8SCHOOL GOVERNANCE 8
PROGRAMME OVERVIEW 8
KS3 – YEAR 7, 8 & 9 NATIONAL CURRICULUM FOR ENGLAND 9KS4 - YEAR 10 & 11 CAMBRIDGE IGCSE 9SIXTH FORM (YEARS 12 AND 13) IB DIPLOMA AND COURSES 10
Ukrainian Programme (Options) 12Information and Digital Literacy 13
Library 13Curriculum Option Lessons (Cols) 14
ASSESSMENT AND REPORTING 14
Assessment 14Reporting Procedures 15Parent Teacher Information Evenings 15
THREE WAY CONFERENCES 16Student-Parent-Teacher Student-Led Conference 16
DEVELOPING INDEPENDENCE 16
HOME-SCHOOL COMMUNICATION - CLASS WEBSITES 16LOOKING AFTER BELONGINGS 17LOST PROPERTY 17PERSONAL ITEMS AT SCHOOL 17HOME LEARNING (HOMEWORK) 17
HOME LEARNING Guidelines 17LOOKING AFTER PERSONAL LOCKERS 18OUTDOOR BREAK AND LUNCHTIME 18Exceptions for not going outside 19
SUPPORT SERVICE 19
ENGLISH AS AN ADDITIONAL LANGUAGE (EAL). SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDSAnd Disabilities (SEND) 19
Individual Educational Plans (IEP) 19
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In-Class Support 20Literacy Support Programme 20
STUDENT SERVICE 20
CANTEEN 20CAR PARKING - PECHERSK EY, PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOL 21CAR PARKING - DNIPRO EY, PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOL 21CAR PARKING – NIVKI EY AND LOWER PRIMARY SCHOOL 21CAR PARKING – NIVKI UPPER PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOL 21
MEDICAL AND HEALTH SERVICES 21
Illness 21Injuries 22Medication at School 22Medical Records 23Illnesses and Exclusion from School 23
SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENT 24
CONTACTING YOUR CHILD DURING THE DAY 24FOOD IN SCHOOL & BIRTHDAY PARTIES 24
SECURITY AT BISU 25
ID CARDS 25NANNIES, DRIVERS AND BODYGUARDS 25EMERGENCY SITUATIONS - EVACUATION/LOCKDOWN/FIRE 25IT USER EXPECTATIONS 26MOBILE PHONES AT SCHOOL 26TABLET COMPUTERS AT SCHOOL 27CLASS PLACEMENTS (CHRONOLOGICAL AGE GROUPS) 27
POSITIVE BEHAVIOUR 27
PHILOSOPHY 27SCHOOL UNIFORM AND DRESS CODE 28PURCHASING OF SCHOOL UNIFORM 28FOOTWEAR 29
THE SCHOOL DAY 29
ATTENDANCE AND SCHOOL TIMES 29DAILY TIMETABLES 29ARRIVAL AT SCHOOL 30END OF DAY PROCEDURES 30ABSENCE FROM SCHOOL OR LATE ARRIVAL 30EXTENDED ABSENCE 31
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EDUCATIONAL VISITS 31RESIDENTIAL VISITS 31
PARENT RESPONSIBILITIES 32
PARENT PORTAL 32COMMUNICATION 32SCHOOL/ PARENT COMMUNICATION PROTOCOLS 32FIRST POINT OF CONTACT 33CHANGE OF PERSONAL DETAILS 33CLASS PARENTS 33SCHOOL PROJECTS 33PARENT INVOLVEMENT 33PARENT TEACHERS ASSOCIATION (PTA) 34FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS AND ENROLMENT PROCEDURES 34PARENTS ABSENT FROM THE FAMILY HOME 35
INTRODUCTION
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Dear Parents
I am delighted to be writing an introduction to this parent handbook which has been prepared and updated over the last few months. The handbook itself is easy to use and contains a wealth of information that will help you understand how the school works and how you can support BISU in ensuring that we do the very best for your child. Strong home-school partnerships, in which we all work closely together, are essential to give your child the best possible opportunities to achieve his or her potential.
I do hope you find this handbook useful and that it helps both you and your child.
Kindest regards,
David Cole
Principal
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OUR SCHOOL
The British International School Ukraine has four schools with all serving the educational needs of the international community and students from Ukrainian families. BISU is committed to the ethos of an International Education taught through the medium of English. We are a non-sectarian co-educational institution and we welcome students of all races, religions and cultures. Through our curriculum which promotes the IB PYP and the National Curriculum for England while offering Cambridge Checkpoint, IGCSE and IB Diploma qualifications, the school is a member of a greater network of international schools. We are a proud member of the Council of British International Schools (COBIS).
Our school also has the advantage of being registered with the Ministry of Ukraine and we can offer a dual-curriculum allowing students to choose to take the Ukrainian Atestat examinations.
Addresses and contact details:
Pechersk Early Years, Primary and Secondary School1 Dragomirova Str., Kyiv, 01103+38 (044) 596 18 28+38 (050) 412 48 [email protected]
Nivki Upper Primary and Secondary School45 Tolbuhina Str., Kyiv, 03190+38 (044) 502 39 09+38 (050) 410 46 [email protected]
Nivki Early Years and Lower Primary School36a Scherbakivskogo Str., Kyiv, 04111+38 (044) 239 21 21+38 (066) 303 75 [email protected]
Dnipro Early Years, Primary and Secondary School39a Antonovych Str., Dnipro, 49000+38 (056) 767 18 28+38 (050) 458 80 [email protected]
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SCHOOL MISSION
The British International School in Ukraine is an inclusive international community which promotes lifelong learning, creative thinking and global awareness, in a caring and supportive environment.
We provide a world class education which challenges students to be open minded, balanced and courageous.
SHARED BRITISH AND INTERNATIONAL VALUES
At BISU we promote shared, fundamental British and International values comprised of:
● Respect for Democracy and support for participation in the democratic process
● Respect for the rule of law
● Respect for individual liberty and the accompanying rights and responsibilities
● Mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs and for those without faith.
As a British International School, we recognise that these values are not unique to one country but are shared by many.
At BISU, actively promoting these values means challenging contrary opinions or behaviours.
CHARACTER EDUCATION
At BISU we recognise the abilities, traits and life-skills that help students persevere with setbacks, confidently engage in debates, and contribute to the wider community are as equally important as securing good academic results.
We acknowledge the importance our school culture, ethos and ‘hidden curriculum’ plays in character education and recognise it must also be promoted through learning and teaching in the classroom to provide the rationale, language and tools to use in developing character.
Our school actively promotes the following:
· Moral virtues such as courage, honesty, humility, empathy and gratitude;· Intellectual virtues such as curiosity and critical thinking;· Performance virtues such as resilience, application and self-regulation;
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· Civic virtues such as acts of service and volunteering.
INTERNATIONALISM AND INTERCULTURALISM
At BISU, we believe that internationalism must be reflected in everything we do. Engagement with others at local, national and international level is crucial. It is reflected in the breadth of our curriculum and the holistic ethos with which we approach education. Every member of the team at school embraces human rights by recognising what we have in common and exploring what is different in order to promote tolerance and a deeper understanding of the world around us.
Interculturalism is a dynamic concept and refers to evolving relations between cultural groups. It has been defined as “the existence and equitable interaction of diverse cultures and the possibility of generating shared cultural expressions through dialogue and mutual respect”.
We use teaching and learning about other cultures to promote tolerance and encourage engagement with these cultures. We aim to go beyond passive coexistence, to achieve a developing and sustainable way of living together in multicultural societies through the creation of understanding of, respect for and dialogue between different cultural groups. BISU models this in the multicultural teaching staff employed to promote intercultural literacy amongst our students.
SCHOOL GOVERNANCE
The Governance of the British International School in Ukraine and its four schools falls to the Board. The Board is responsible for the strategic and developmental planning of the school as directed by the Chairperson. The day-to-day management of the schools is carried out by the Principal who reports directly to the Chairperson.
PROGRAMME OVERVIEW
Many parents in countries all over the world choose to send their students to British schools. The popularity of British education can be seen in the huge number of such schools outside of the UK.
British educational system has a long tradition of excellence and a global reputation due in part to the fame of institutions such as Oxford and Cambridge. Our curriculum takes a progressive approach with each phase building upon what has come before while, at the same time, offering a great deal of scope for individuality, enjoyment and creativity in the
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classroom. A considerable benefit of a British education is that it is eminently transferrable allowing students to move easily between British schools in various countries and facilitates an easy progression to a university in the UK or elsewhere in the world.
All schools in the BISU family follow similar programmes which are consciously adapted to meet the unique needs of each of our schools, community and the local environment.
KS3 – YEAR 7, 8 & 9 NATIONAL CURRICULUM FOR ENGLAND
There are more than 2000 international schools teaching elements of the National Curriculum for England with more being established every year.
The National Curriculum provides pupils with an introduction to the essential knowledge they need to study a range of subjects, taught by specialist teachers. It introduces pupils to the best that has been thought and said, and helps engender an appreciation of human creativity and achievement. The content of these courses is prescribed by the British Government.
The Key Stage 3 curriculum at BISU promotes the development of students’ knowledge, understanding and skills. As part of the wider school curriculum, we also ensure that the cultural, mental and physical welfare of the students is also met, which prepares them for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of later life.
The subjects studied at Key Stage 3 are: English, Mathematics, Science, History, Geography, Computer Studies, Modern Languages, Art, Music and Physical Education. Within Modern Languages, students select a course of study from French, German or Russian.
KS4 - YEAR 10 & 11 CAMBRIDGE IGCSE
The Cambridge IGCSE curriculum offers a variety of routes for learners with a wide range of abilities, including those whose first language is not English. Starting from a foundation of core subjects, it is easy to add breadth and cross-curricular perspectives. Encouraging learners to engage with a variety of subjects, and make connections between them, is fundamental to our approach at BISU.
Cambridge IGCSE offers a flexible and stimulating curriculum, which helps improve performance by developing skills in creative thinking, enquiry and problem solving. It is the perfect springboard to advanced study.
Cambridge IGCSE develops learner knowledge, understanding and skills in:
● Subject content;● Applying knowledge and understanding to new as well as unfamiliar situations;
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● Intellectual enquiry;● Flexibility and responsiveness to change;● Working and communicating in English;● Influencing outcomes;● Cultural awareness.
All KS4 Students take the following subjects
English Language and English Literature
International Maths
(Coordinated Science AND Global Perspectives) or Triple Science
In addition, all Students must choose from the following:
French or German or Russian
Geography or ArtOr Ukrainian
Government Programme
Music or History or Computer Studies
Physical Education or Business Studies
All students have curriculum time for Student Wellbeing and Personal, Social Development (not assessed)
SIXTH FORM (YEARS 12 AND 13) IB DIPLOMA AND COURSES
The International Baccalaureate is an internationally recognised education with high academic standards and a rigorous assessment policy. It has worldwide recognition (110 countries).
The IB has a reputation for being demanding but very rewarding. It offers a broader programme of study than ‘A’ levels, and encourages students to think independently, and to explore their creativity. In order to achieve success, students need to be disciplined, committed and prepared to engage fully with their studies, both in and out of school.
It is accepted and respected by the world’s leading universities, and evidence suggests that higher rates of DP students go on to university and higher education study than non-IB students.
IBDP students develop strong academic, social and emotional characteristics. They are also likely to perform well academically – often better than students on other programmes. It aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who
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help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect.
The DP curriculum is made up of six subject groups and the DP core, comprising Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) and the extended essay.
Through the DP core, students reflect on the nature of knowledge, complete independent research and undertake a project that often involves community service.
The curriculum of the IB Diploma Programme is divided into 6 groups. Within these groups we aim to provide a wide range of choices so that learners can access the subjects that they enjoy and those which best prepare them for their chosen careers and University courses. Students select three subjects at Higher level and three at Standard level.
The BISU subject choices are as follows:
Group 1 Group 2 Group 3 Group 4 Group 5 Group 6
English A Language
and Literature
Ukrainian Literature
French B Language
Russian B Language
German B Language
Ab Initio Spanish Language*
Ab Initio French Language*
Ab Initio Mandarin
Language*
History
Geography
Business & Managemen
t
Psychology*
Biology
Chemistry
Physics
Maths
Maths Studies
Visual Arts
Film*
Music*
*Subjects offered as part of school’s Mentored IBDP Online Learning Programme.
Ab Initio SubjectsWe offer Languages in Ab Initio for students who have not previously studied the language they wish to study.
Mentored IBDP Online Learning ProgrammeSubjects offered as part of school’s Mentored IBDP Online Learning Programme require a high proportion of independent study. Each student will receive mentored study
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guidance to provide an oversight and support and this must be complemented by a high level of personal motivation, self-management, independence and commitment. Standards and expectations are as high as for all IBDP subjects.In addition to achieving the IB Diploma, students have the opportunity to graduate from BISU. To do so, they need to have an excellent record of attendance and punctuality, to adhere to the school rules and dress code and to keep up to date with deadlines for completing work. Graduation day is a fantastic occasion, marking the culmination of two years of hard work and celebrating the successes of our students.
IB Learners strive to be: InquirersKnowledgeableThinkers.CommunicatorsPrincipledOpen-mindedCaring.Risk-takersBalancedReflective
At BISU we aim to prepare our children and young people to engage positively with the global community in the spirit of the International Baccalaureate. Our Values and Objectives work hand in hand with our philosophy and beliefs to ensure that the school will be; religiously and politically neutral, provide a balanced programme of instruction founded on international and Ukrainian curricula leading to qualifications of both local and international value. We involve students, parents and staff as active partners in the learning process, providing a rigorous academic programme with continuous review and improvement, enabling us to promote, in all members of the school community, a sense of rights and responsibilities. Through this we foster an appreciation and understanding of other cultures. All of these factors contribute to our host country’s further development and serve the international and intercultural needs of the local and wider communities.
UKRAINIAN PROGRAMME AND OPTIONS
As we are fully registered with the Ministry of Education in Ukraine, BISU is able to offer a Dual Curriculum programme for parents who wish their students to study for the Ukrainian Government Programme. Our fully qualified Ukrainian teachers ensure that children and young people are taught Ukrainian Language, Ukrainian Literature, Maths and Science and from Year 6 International History. All examinations are taken in school with students obtaining their Atestat in Year 12 (Ukrainian Grade 11)
The Ukrainian teachers where possible will ensure that the teaching connects to the Unit of Inquiry being taught in the International programme following the central idea of the PYP.
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Note: The teaching of the Ukrainian Programme starts from Year 2 (Ukrainian Grade 1). Teaching is offered on Tuesdays-Fridays two lessons of each week, totaling 8 lessons, as well as lessons being taught on Saturday morning. Secondary School students study Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Foreign Literature, Geography, Algebra and Geometry.
Our school is working in accordance with the special, individual programme approved by Ministry of Education of Ukraine which covers both International and Ukrainian Government programmes. All local students are registered as Externat students to make educational procedure more efficient and successful for our students.
For parents who wish to take advantage of a full international curriculum but still wish their students to follow the Ukrainian programme they may enrol as an Externat (Home Study) student. The school is able to register students on the programme, provide all study materials and then support your child with guidance throughout the year. The school also registers the student for examinations which are held in school.
An updated Timetable of Consultations and Schedule of Exams is available on our website.
Students who do not follow the Ukrainian Programme will have one lesson each week focusing on Ukrainian language and Cultural Studies. These lessons are designed to give students a deeper understanding and appreciation of our host country.
INFORMATION AND DIGITAL LITERACY
BISU provides excellent opportunities for students to explore digital literacy skills and develop IT skills using a trans-disciplinary approach. Students and teachers go beyond the obvious appeal of technology to actively explore and develop digital literacy and acquire the skills needed for high level thinking, research, communication, socialisation and self-management.
All students have access to a variety of IT resources which include iPads, digital cameras, video equipment, scanners, copier/print services and current software applications. Flexible library timetabling provides facilities for a flexible learning model implemented to meet the technology needs of teachers and students.
LIBRARY
The Library and Media Centre provide spaces that are conducive to reading and learning. Gathering information, describing and recording data, sorting and categorising, interpreting, drawing conclusions and presenting are all research skills required for lifelong learning. Within the School Library the students have the benefit of access to an extensive collection of resources including books, posters, videos, DVD’s, magazines and electronic books. The School Library provides an open learning environment that can be
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used by students at all times. At our Dnipro School, Class Teachers administer provision to ensure students have access to library resources through their own classrooms.
All members of the school community may use the library.
The Ukrainian section has books for students and adults and there are growing collections in other native languages to support the growing diversity of cultures attending the school. This resource is being developed in partnership with parents.
Students are encouraged to be principled and caring when it comes to using Library resources in and out of the Library. The Library reserves the right to charge the replacement and processing fee for any lost, misused or long overdue items.
At Nivki and Pechersk our Library is open Monday to Friday from 8.30 am – 4.30 pm. As many books are borrowed and returned each week, parents are asked to help their students be responsible, by encouraging them to keep books in a set place and return them on time.
CURRICULUM OPTIONAL LESSONS (COLS)
A variety of COLs are offered. Students can register for COLs during the ‘sign up’ period prior to the activities taking place, for which a letter is issued to parents. Some activities require specialist coaches or instructors and a small charge will be made.
Activities vary but may include: football, swimming, basketball, hip hop dance, creative writing, cultural activities, arts and crafts, drama, dance, badminton, calligraphy, jewellery making, card making, etc.
Information describing each activity is distributed at the beginning of each term enabling students to make their selections. Activities may take place during lunchtimes and/or after school.
ASSESSMENT AND REPORTING
ASSESSMENT
Teachers assess students by selecting or designing methods of assessment appropriate to the learning outcomes. Teachers also take into account the diverse, complicated and sophisticated ways that individual studentren use to develop and demonstrate their understanding.
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Continuous formative assessment provides insights into student’s understanding, knowledge, skills and attitudes. Feedback from assessment allows teachers to meet the individual needs of each student.
Summative assessment complements formative assessment and focuses on the outcome of a programme. Teachers employ a range of assessment strategies and tools when they are assessing studentren. Some strategies include observations, performance tasks, and open-ended tasks. Anecdotal records, rubrics, checklists and continuums are used to record their findings. These tools may be used during formative and summative assessments, self-assessments and peer assessments.
Students also take externally validated exams – IGCSE at the end of Year 11 and IBDP at the end of Year 13
REPORTING PROCEDURES
At BISU we believe that for effective learning to occur, studentren should be partners in the assessment and evaluation of their progress.
Reporting takes place continuously as part of the teaching and learning process. Teachers work with studentren to evaluate success and plan new goals.
In addition to providing regular valuable feedback to studentren, a schedule of regular reports, as outlined below, ensures that parents remain informed about student progress and achievement. Teachers may also, when deemed appropriate, keep parents informed by email or phone.
Parents are very welcome to make an appointment to discuss their student’s learning with the teacher at any time during the year. We would politely request that appointments be made in advance for after the end of the normal school day, in order to allow teachers to focus on teaching and planning during class time.
As well as individual meetings requested by parents and teachers, scheduled reporting times are held during the year.
PARENT TEACHER INFORMATION EVENINGS
Parents are an integral part of the BISU community. Parent Teacher Information Evenings provide a chance for parents to meet the teacher and speak freely about their student’s learning profile.
THREE WAY CONFERENCES
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BISU holds a Goal Setting Conference in the first half term, to provide an opportunity for parents, student and teachers, to be part of the discussion to set goals together for the coming school year. This way, parents are directly involved in supporting the student, while the student develops a sense of responsibility towards their learning.
STUDENT-PARENT-TEACHER STUDENT-LED CONFERENCE
Student-Led Conferences are held during the third term. As the name suggests, the student will lead this conference using their work as a primary vehicle for reporting to their parents independently on their learning progress and areas to be improved. During the Student-Led Conferences, parents will be given the opportunity to view what their student has achieved during the year. BISU holds termly meetings with students and parents to discuss academic progress and student development. We value highly these meetings as opportunity for students and parents to meet together with our teachers to celebrate success and discuss next-step improvements. Should there be a requirement, teachers and parents may request additional meetings to discuss progress and attainment, and we will usually recommend that students are also part of these meetings.
BISU holds termly meetings with students and parents to discuss academic progress and student development. We value highly these meetings as opportunity for students and parents to meet together with our teachers to celebrate success and discuss next-step improvements. Should there be a requirement, teachers and parents may request additional meetings to discuss progress and attainment, and we will usually recommend that students are also part of these meetings.
DEVELOPING INDEPENDENCE
HOME-SCHOOL COMMUNICATION - CLASS WEBSITES
BISU now uses class websites as the main communication between the subject teachers as well as Ukrainian Programme teachers and the parent body. Within the secondary school website you will find information on the form tutor and subject teachers, timetable information, a blog telling you about what's been happening in school and homework. You are also able to write directly to the teachers by email to which they will, of course, reply.
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LOOKING AFTER BELONGINGS
Teachers work with studentren to become responsible and independent by looking after their own belongings. To allow for easy return of lost goods, parents are asked to help by labelling clothing and other items with the student’s name.
LOST PROPERTY
Labelled items, will be returned to a student immediately. When lost and found items accumulate, they are put on display for parents to check. At the end of each half-term, any unclaimed items are given to charity. BISU takes no responsibility for lost or unclaimed goods.
PERSONAL ITEMS AT SCHOOL
Many students are keen to bring their latest novelty item to school to share them with their friends. They can be lost or exchanged unwisely. Therefore, it is preferred that these items are not brought to school. Any items brought from home to school are at the discretion of parents and are the full responsibility of the student while at school.
Please note the school is unable to take responsibility for items brought onto school grounds by parents, volunteers or students.
HOME LEARNING (HOMEWORK)
Homework may be assigned as project work or as independent work for students. Assignments may involve practice, preparation, extension or creativity. An assignment can take as little time to complete as part of one evening or extend over several days or weeks. All home learning projects are recorded in student planners to support student organisation and to support communication with parents
HOME LEARNING GUIDELINES
The following is a general guide to the amount of time that children of the various age groups can expect to spend each week on home learning assignments.
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Home learning tasks are not set as part of a routine schedule, and they are not set without a clear focus for the support of learning. However, students should generally anticipate receiving home learning tasks once per week for each subject.
The amount of time which students are expected to allocate to home learning is also dependent upon the tasks and demands. Within this, students are expected to direct their own additional learning to support areas which require improvement, and to support wider learning. These expectations increase as students progress through Secondary, and student commitment to this is an integral part of the IB Diploma Programme.
The times below are approximate and may be included in a single task/project which continues for a number of weeks.
Years 7 - 9 Approximately 3 to 5 hours per weekYears 10- 11 Approximately 5 to 10 hours per weekYears 12 - 13 Approximately 5 to 10 hours per week
Students are expected to engage fully with the open-ended demands of the self-directed study ethos of the IB programme. Consequently, students who wish to be successful at IBDP level must be prepared to study to the extent of both thee demands and their ambitions within the course.
Where a child is unable to complete an activity within the recommended time, the activity should stop and the student make a note to inform school, outlining the difficulty encountered and the effort made.
Students are expected to bring books home from the school or class to read, to help literacy and language development as well as to establish strong reading routines.
LOOKING AFTER PERSONAL LOCKERS
Every student in the school is assigned a personal locker. All lockers should be kept in an organised and tidy state. Item must be stored inside so that the door will close. Items left on top of lockers will be removed to ensure our students and teachers enjoy a tidy environment.
OUTDOOR BREAK AND LUNCHTIME
Outdoor break and lunchtime will be suspended in the following circumstances:
1. It is raining heavily.
2. The temperature falls to - 10 or below.
3. It is deemed that outside play areas are not suitable due to ice, snow drifts etc.18
EXCEPTIONS FOR NOT GOING OUTSIDE
All students are expected to go outside at break time and lunch unless:
- the student has a note from a certified doctor with a medical reason for not going outside.
- the nurse decides that a student should stay inside.
SUPPORT SERVICES
ENGLISH AS AN ADDITIONAL LANGUAGE (EAL)
SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS AND DISABILITIES
Our teachers are experienced in helping students with EAL needs ensuring that their requirements are catered for in a caring and supportive way. The aim of EAL support is to enable students to access the curriculum in English. For younger EAL students the general practice is complete immersion in the class, with the EAL teacher monitoring the student’s progress.
For older EAL students the EAL teacher uses a combination of inclusion and withdrawal strategies to support the learner. The assistant teachers support the EAL teacher in achieving this strategy. Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)
The Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) Department offers support internally for a wide range of learning needs. To ensure a student’s progress, it is sometimes necessary to have their needs assessed by external professionals or for the level of support offered internally at BISU to be supplemented externally. Our SEND Department has good links with specialists in Kiev and can provide you with the necessary information to make contact with them.
It is an expectation of the school that parents will do all they can to support their child’s learning and that they see the SEN Department as a partner in this process.
An IEP is drawn up for all students who receive SEND Support (Special Educational Needs and Disability). In order for learning support to be effective, staff with SEN responsibility, guide the child carefully in setting his/her own goals and strategies.
IN-CLASS SUPPORT
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All students at some time will require additional support. The SEND Coordinator may directly assist students with classroom or single subject learning and will work with Assistant Teachers to implement any in-class support.
LITERACY SUPPORT PROGRAMME
In consultation with parents, teachers and the SEND Coordinator, individual students may receive academic assistance as an alternative to additional languages. The programme’s primary intent is literacy support, but this may be adapted to accommodate group or individual needs.
STUDENT SERVICES
CANTEEN
Meals are provided three times a day for all students within the Primary school. This takes the form of:
1. Morning Snack and Drink.2. Hot Lunch.3. Afternoon Snack and Drink.
Food is prepared and cooked fresh daily.
CAR PARKING
Parents will understand that at key points of the day, the traffic flow in front of a school can become very congested. We ask all parents, nannies and drivers to be vigilant with regards to the safety of their own students and other students, particularly at the start and end of the school day. As role models for our students, we expect all adults to be aware of the needs of others and remain courteous, polite and considerate.
CAR PARKING – PECHERSK SCHOOL
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If you wish to park your car, you may do so in the car park under the building where places are reserved for the school’s use.
CAR PARKING – DNIPRO SCHOOL
Car parking is available in an area immediately past our gate. It is of moderate size and owned by the City of Dnipro so it is therefore used by our parents and neighbours in the vicinity of our school.
CAR PARKING – NIVKI PRIMARY SCHOOL
Car parking is available on the street directly outside the school.
CAR PARKING – NIVKI SECONDARY SCHOOL
Car parking is available on site within the campus. There is a strict one-way traffic system in place at arrival and dismissal times. There is also a 10 km/h speed limit in force at all times.
MEDICAL AND HEALTH SERVICES
The medical office is staffed by a qualified nurse. A log is kept of all treatment and parents are notified in the event of any significant illness or injury by the school nurse.
ILLNESS
Parents are asked to notify the school nurse of any infectious diseases or of any change in the health status of a student, e.g. a vaccination, illness, injury or operation. It is important for parents to keep students at home if they are sick or injured. BISU maintains a “Fever Free” environment and requires that no student attend school if they have a temperature of over 37.1 degrees celsius.
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Parents need to pick up their child from school if the school nurse rings to let the parent know that the student is too sick to be at school. By following this protocol we are able to maintain a healthy environment for all and minimise infections.
Parents should advise the classroom/form teacher by email of reasons for all absences from the school including illness. In the event of extended illness where the student will be absent for a number of days, parents are requested to contact the classroom/form teacher.
INJURIES
The school nurse will call parents in the event that a student needs to go home due to illness or injury. In the event of a serious injury or illness, the nurse will contact the parents or guardian so the student can be transported to a medical centre or hospital for further attention. The nurse and/or a designated person will always accompany the student to the hospital or medical centre and meet the parent there. If in emergency situations, the parents cannot be contacted, the school reserves the right to seek medical care from the hospital.
The school nurse will also call a parent if a child has received what might be deemed a visible but not serious injury and always if the child has bumped his/her head. The Head of School is kept updated by the Nurse.
MEDICATION AT SCHOOL
Should a student be required to take medication during the school day, the nurse and classroom/form teacher should be informed.
The BISU School Nurse is the only person permitted to store and administer any medication during school hours. Parents are required to complete the ‘Permission to Administer Medicine Form’ available from the school nurse. You should also inform the classroom teacher by email.
All medicines must be in their original container, clearly labelled in Ukrainian and/or English with the student’s name and the dosage to be given. A few over-the-counter medications (e.g. Panadol) are available in the medical office and can be given if parental permission is on file. A note will be sent home to explain any medication that has been given to your child.
MEDICAL RECORDS
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It is very important that BISU nurses have complete, updated medical records for students at all times.
Parents must complete the BISU Medical Questionnaire at the time of admission. In addition parents must provide a certificate of child health examination (form no. 062/o) and a vaccination record (form no. 063/o). We ask that parents keep the school nurse updated of any new conditions or immunisations. It is also important to keep the school informed of current work, home and mobile numbers of parents or guardians and emergency contact information.
Medical records are treated in confidence.
ILLNESSES AND EXCLUSION FROM SCHOOL
BISU exclusion period for the following illnesses / conditions are:
Measles 7 days from appearance of rash.
German Measles 5 days from appearance of rash.
Chicken Pox 5 days from appearance of rash.
Mumps 10 days from onset of symptoms.
Impetigo Until fully recovered and approved by a BISU nurse.
Ring Worm Until fully recovered and approved by a BISU nurse.
Head Lice* Until hair is treated and inspected by a BISU nurse.
Hand Foot and Mouth Disease 5 days from appearance of rash. Students may only return to school after having been given written clearance by a doctor. Students must first visit the school nurse when coming back to school so the clearance and student can be checked.
Other illnesses may present themselves during the school year. In these cases information will be sent home to parents regarding exclusion from school. Where appropriate general notices will be posted onto school notice boards.
Return to School CertificationWhen a child returns to school from an illness such as the ones listed above, they must bring with them the appropriate certificate stating their fitness to do so. This certificate should be presented to the school nurse.
Head LiceHead lice may happen to anyone but are most common in students aged between 4-11.Although head lice may be embarrassing for some people they do not cause illness. They should be treated promptly to avoid the spread to other individuals.
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The school nurse will check the student’s head and contact the parents if treatment is required. Following treatment, parents should inform the school nurse and the student may return to school. The school nurse is required to check the student’s hair before being permitted to return to class. Other students will be checked as required and school will issue information on treatment to parents
SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENT
CONTACTING YOUR CHILD DURING THE DAY
If the matter is urgent you may contact Reception who will ensure the message will be passed on to the classroom or subject teacher who has the student at the time. If the situation is an emergency, please emphasise that to the staff member receiving your call. Experience shows that telephoning your child directly is not appropriate and therefore contravenes school policies and procdures.
FOOD IN SCHOOL & BIRTHDAY PARTIES
The students are provided with snacks during the day and a nutritious balanced meal at lunchtime. For Health and Safety reasons, food should not be brought from home. If your child has a special diet for health or religious reasons, please inform Reception and the class teacher.
Parents may bring a cake to celebrate their child’s birthday however, parties are not permitted at school. We have to abide by Ministry directives in terms of foodstuffs in school e.g. cakes should be fresh and not contain a lot of cream. Cake ingredients need to be provided as some children have allergies. We also ask that gifts are not given out at school, or during school hours.
Invitations to birthday parties should be distributed outside school unless all students in the class are invited.
SECURITY AT BISU
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ID CARDS
BISU provides a comprehensive security service that is designed to maximise the safety and security of its school community. All parents and staff are issued with a BISU ID card. All staff and parents are required to show their ID card on entry to the school and to wear it at all times whilst on campus.
Parents may apply for an ID card for their drivers, nannies and body guards.
Parents, drivers and nannies who do not have their ID Cards are required to register as guests, show proof of identity and wear a Guest ID Card. Parents who bring guests to BISU, must complete a ‘Guest Registration’ for their guests.
A ‘Security Check’ station is located at Reception. ID Cards are checked at the entrance.
NANNIES, DRIVERS AND BODYGUARDS
Nannies, drivers and bodyguards may escort students to the front of the school and/or into the changing areas for students from Nursery to Year 1. In these areas they may help the students in their care to undress from their outdoor clothes into their indoor school dress. From here they will be collected from the changing area by school staff and taken upstairs. Students from Year 3 upwards may walk straight into school independently without an adult. Adults are not allowed to enter the main school beyond the reception area before or during the school day. Nannies, drivers and bodyguards are not permitted to stay in the general school area during the school day.
Nannies, drivers and bodyguards may at the direction of parents make payments or collect sick students.
Nannies, drivers and bodyguards who are dropping off and picking up students are encouraged to demonstrate independence and care for their personal property by allowing students to carry their own belongings.
After the school day has finished all authorised parents or carers are allowed to access the school and collect their students from the classrooms.
EMERGENCY SITUATIONS - EVACUATION/LOCKDOWN/FIRE
Procedures are in place for emergency situations or evacuation.
It is important that parents advise the school of any change in family contact details, to ensure that records are up-to-date including home/work addresses, telephone/fax numbers and email addresses. To change contact details please inform the school reception.
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In the event of a disruption to normal conditions e.g. flooding or any irregular civil unrest, the school will follow an emergency action plan. The school will communicate with parents through a variety of means including SMS and/or phone and announcements on the school’s website.
In the event of an early school closure, students will only be able to leave the school grounds, when their parent, driver, or carer collects them.
IT USER EXPECTATIONS
The Wi-Fi network at BISU provides Internet access anytime, anywhere.
To maintain a safe environment BISU monitors internet usage and employs filters to manage inappropriate content and sites. Filtering software is provided to restrict access to certain sites. If there is a breach in the filter, our system will be immediately checked and updated accordingly.
All students at BISU are expected to use technology resources and services in a manner appropriate to a school setting and in keeping with BISU expectations and values.
At all times, BISU students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner, which is cognisant of the rights, feelings and freedoms of others as well as themselves.
School expects all students, parents and staff to abide by BISU’s Responsible use of the Internet Policy and promote online safety best practice. www.saferinternet.org.uk
MOBILE PHONES AT SCHOOL
Students are not permitted to use mobile phones during the school day. Parents are reminded that they have signed and acknowledged this rule when signing their contract. Phone calls to home can be made through the school phones if necessary, with teacher permission.
Please note, when a student uses a mobile phone without permission it will be confiscated until the end of the day. A repeat offence will see the phone being confiscated and only returned when a parent comes to collect it from the Head School or designate.
TABLET COMPUTERS AT SCHOOL
Students are allowed to bring a personal tablet computer to school for educational purposes only. When this is requested and a student wishes to do so the parent must
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sign a consent form giving their permission and that they accept loss or damage is not the responsibility of the school. Tablet computers must not be used as a mobile phone. Where a student is doing so, the confiscation rule for mobile phones will apply.
CLASS PLACEMENTS (CHRONOLOGICAL AGE GROUPS)
In line with custom and practice in the UK, BISU adheres to the principle that children should be educated with their chronological year group and move to the next year within the same class. There may be exceptional cases related to exam cohorts where placement in a different year group is in the best interests of the student. This would only be considered in exceptional cases and requires the approval of the Principal.
Parental requests for a specific teacher based on a personal preference cannot be considered for obvious reasons.
POSITIVE ENVIRONMENT
PHILOSOPHY
We are aware that we share responsibility for the students in our care, and make every effort to provide the care which any responsible parent would be expected to give.
Parents/guardians play the most important role in teaching about ways of behaving. The home provides the first opportunities for students to learn to respect other people’s feelings and property. At school we reinforce the attitudes, courtesies and disciplined behaviour that students begin at home. We will ensure that positive behaviour is rewarded; inappropriate behaviour is dealt with firmly and fairly with the intended outcome being that the student learns how to make correct choices. Our approach does not support punitive punishment. This policy is framed in such a way as to encourage and reinforce courteous and civilised behaviour – every opportunity is taken to support self-discipline, whereby students are personally involved and accept responsibility for their own actions and behaviour.
Aims of our Positive Behaviour Policy:
1. To create a welcoming, safe, orderly, creative, and student friendly environment2. To inspire positive attitudes to school work and the school environment3. For staff and students to take personal responsibility for their environment4. To ensure a high standard of excellent behaviour and discipline is maintained
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At BISU we strive for a caring, open-minded, principled and communicative community. We seek to establish a positive and constructive partnership between the school, children and parents in order to fulfil the school’s Vision and Mission.
SCHOOL UNIFORM AND DRESS CODE
BISU policy is that all children should wear the full school uniform when attending school or when participating in school organised events outside of normal school hours.
BISU believes that school uniform:
● Promotes a sense of pride in the school.
● Encourages a sense of community and belonging towards the school.
● Is practical and smart.
● Makes children feel equal to their peers in terms of appearance.
● Is regarded as suitable wear for school by parents.
● Is designed with health and safety in mind.
Attendance at school is subject to wearing full school uniform. If a student is not in full uniform, they will be given the option of returning home to change or waiting at Reception for the correct item(s) to be delivered before joining lessons.
Make-upStudents may not wear make-up (including false-eyelashes) or nail varnish (other than clear polish) in our schools. HairLong hair must be tied back for reasons of health and safety. Length of SkirtsNo higher than 5cm above the knee.JewelleryGirls may wear one stud earring in each ear.The Head of School is the final arbiter on any matters relating to uniform.
PURCHASING OF SCHOOL UNIFORM
Uniform is supplied by UK based company. One set of uniform is provided as part of the fees. Additional items of uniform may be purchased via BISU. PE Kit is a required part of the uniform and can be purchased from school. If any garment is out-of-stock, there is a 2-3 week delivery time.
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PE kit: PE kit should be kept in a named PE bag.
FOOTWEAR
Shoes should be black, without additional adornment such as metallic buckles. Laces and soles must be black. The shoes should be flat, without a raised heel, and closed-toed (no sandals). Crocs and similar shoes are not allowed as they present a health and safety risk in school.Shoes may not be black training shoes.Boots must not be worn in school.Year 12 and Year 13 Girls may wear a heeled shoe up to 5cm. The heel must not be narrow/stiletto style.If a child has a medical certificate showing a training shoe must be worn for health reasons, these items must be plain black, without a logo and with black soles and laces.
THE SCHOOL DAY
ATTENDANCE AND SCHOOL TIMES
Good punctuality and attendance are essential life skills.
All children begin classes at 8.45am Children are advised to arrive between 10 to 15 minutes before classes begin.
School Day for Secondary is 8:45 – 15:45
All children should be on time for school. Repeatedly citing ‘traffic’ and ‘sleeping in’ as reasons for being late are unacceptable. Ensuring your child arrives on time is the duty of all responsible parents.
Regular non-attendance and poor punctuality will affect your child’s education.
DAILY TIMETABLES
Each child’s daily timetable, including break times, is made available to parents at the start of each academic year.
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ARRIVAL AT SCHOOL
Children should not arrive at school before 8.15am to ensure supervision is available.
Children who have arrived between 8:15am and 8.30am must wait in the designated reception areas. Students may enter their classroom from 8.30am.
END OF DAY PROCEDURES
Classes finish at 3:45pm and students may choose to leave at that point. The remaining students have a snack and should leave no later than 4.00pm. Students may not leave the building unless they are accompanied by an authorised adult or have written permission approved by the Head of School.
Students who are attending COLs will be sent to their club classroom/area at 4.00pm.
Students not attending COLs and still on the premises after 4:00pm will be directed to the reception area where office staff will contact their parents.
When COLs have finished
Once COLs have ended at 4.45pm students will be dismissed in the following way:
Students will be released from their clubs to collect bags, dress for the weather. Students may not leave the building unless they are accompanied by an authorised adult or have written permission approved by the Head of School.
If students have not been collected by 5.00pm, they will be directed to the reception area where office staff will ring their parents.
The Security Staff will not allow any student to leave the building unless they are accompanied by an authorised adult or have written permission approved by the Head of School.
ABSENCE FROM SCHOOL OR LATE ARRIVAL
As in any outstanding school, our target is 100% attendance and punctuality.
We appreciate a child may request leave for medical treatment or a family emergency of some kind. If this is the case, the following procedure is applied:-
1 Parents must send an email or signed note to the class teacher or contact Reception before the start of the school day explaining the reason and requesting an early departure.
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The request is then presented to the Head of School for consideration.
3 Parents/carers, who are arriving to pick up a child for early dismissal, must report to reception where they will sign the ‘Early Leavers Register’. Reception is then responsible for marking the child on the register as now absent and informing the class/form teacher.
4 Any child, who was taken out of school but later returns, must first report to Reception to be marked as present in school.
At the end of the day, parents/carers collecting their children must wait until school finishes as the early departure of a child causes disruption for the rest of the children in the class.
EXTENDED ABSENCE
Parents are requested to advise classroom/form teachers if their child will be absent from school for an extended period of time. While it is not easy to replicate the school-learning environment when away from the school, teachers are able to provide some guidance for the child’s continued learning while they are absent. However, before such an absence takes place permission should be sought from the Head of School.
EDUCATIONAL VISITS
The local environment is considered a key platform for learning, providing opportunities for real life investigations and experiences that cannot be replicated in the classroom.
Educational visits are an essential part of the curriculum. These opportunities are planned to be developmentally appropriate and also to be responsive to the needs identified through the children’s inquiries. The expectation is that every student will attend all excursions organised for his/her benefit.
When children go on BISU educational visits:
● Parents receive notice about the visit which outlines: the date, mode of transport, student’s needs, (e.g. lunch, drinks etc.) description and reason for the visit. Parents are reminded that they have given permission for children to be taken off site by agreeing to the school rules when signing their school contract.
RESIDENTIAL VISITS
As part of the school’s philosophy of developing independence skills and exposing children to life experiences, BISU organises residential visits. The diverse and high quality
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residential visits offered by BISU mean teachers can create experiences that enhance students’ classroom learning, adding opportunities they may not otherwise have, particularly in the case of urban schools where children have limited access to varied environments in their day to day learning.
The expectation is that all children should attend these visits.
PARENT RESPONSIBILITIES
PARENT PORTAL
BISU is developing the Parent Portal for communication between teachers and parents. Within the Portal you will find information on: the class, specialist teachers and assistant teachers, timetable information, photographs of weekly life of the children, a class blog telling you about what's been happening in school, home learning, and links to useful websites. You are also able to write directly to the teachers by email who will of course reply to any email sent.
The school advises parents to check the Portal regularly to ensure they are aware of the home learning requirements and important class news.
COMMUNICATION
The objective of communication between parents and school is always to arrive at an outcome which enhances the learning opportunities of our children within the framework of the school. At BISU, we are committed to open, honest and timely communication with parents. We believe that communication from both the school and parents should be respectful, measured, amicable and sensitive.
SCHOOL/ PARENT COMMUNICATION PROTOCOLS
At BISU we are committed to building productive partnerships with parents in the education of their children. Therefore, we welcome and encourage parental involvement and participation in the school community. We use various channels to communicate with parents, to share information pertaining to the education of your children, and to the community life of the school. Our aim is to listen to and respond appropriately to all parental concerns and requests. When there is a matter to be addressed, please follow the established channels of communication.
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FIRST POINT OF CONTACT
Your child’s class teacher is the first point of contact for parents, if there is a matter to be addressed regarding your child or a classroom issue. He/She can be contacted through the school’s email. Parents are requested to make an appointment, should they want to discuss a matter in person.
CHANGE OF PERSONAL DETAILS
The school asks all parents to ensure that their personal details are current and up to date. Therefore, if details change in any way please inform reception at the earliest opportunity.
CLASS PARENTS
The BISU community is considering a proposal for one parent from each class to be nominated as the Class Parent. Their role would be to support the teachers in the event of a field trip, special class or year group occasions or a school project.
SCHOOL PROJECTS
Parents are encouraged to support and often participate in cultural, religious, sport and special whole school events and programmes.
PARENT INVOLVEMENT
As parents you are encouraged to participate as partners in the education of your children and in the continuing development of the school.
Parental involvement can occur through a variety of avenues including:
● Attendance on field trips.● Classroom involvement e.g. reading.● Assisting with other events such as International Day. ● Regular class newsletters.● Parent –Teacher Conferences.
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● Student-Led Conferences.● Parent Information Evenings.● Parent Workshops.● Parent Coffee Mornings.● Class Parents.
PARENT TEACHERS ASSOCIATION (PTA)
Our goal is for each school to have a PTA Committee
PTA Mission
To support our children and school activities
● by embracing diversity and
● maintaining a strong school community.
Aims:
a) To promote close co-operation and communication between parents, teachers and pupils.b) To engage in activities which support and advance the welfare and education of pupils attending School. Note. The PTA is not a conduit for comments, concerns and complaints relating to the day-to-day running of the school. While such input from parents is a vital part of our school improvement process, there are dedicated procedures for such matters i.e. Parental Concerns and Complaints Procedure.
The staff are represented by a Teacher Representative on the PTA Committee.
Please refer to the PTA Handbook.
FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS AND ENROLMENT PROCEDURES
Parents are reminded that they must follow the terms of the contract in their entirety which will be strictly administered by the school. The following is a summary of these requirements:
● All school fees that are due must be paid prior to the first day of the year and/or term as appropriate.
● Proof of payment must be sent to the accounts department either in person or by email.
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● On the first day of the year/term if payment has not been received children will not be admitted to the school.
● Re-admittance to the school will only be allowed once proof of payment has been submitted to the accounts department.
● Parents are advised that under no circumstances will cash be accepted as payment.
● Parents who qualify for a discount by paying for the whole school year in advance, must give a full term’s notice of their intention to leave in order to receive any due refund as stated in the contract.
● Parents using the extended day service must settle their account at the end of each month.
School Policies and Procedures
School rules and expectations are determined by the Principal and approved by the School Board. Policies and Procedures are available for inspection by any of our parent body.
PARENTS ABSENT FROM THE FAMILY HOME
We understand that on occasion, parents may be required to be absent from the family home. On these occasions, if no parent will be at home or in the city, the parents should appoint a ‘temporary guardian’ or ‘caregiver’ to take care of them, and advise school of the arrangement including emergency contact details and requirements.
In the parents’ absence, the temporary guardian or caregiver may be required to: make decisions about the educational, social or emotional needs of the student; support the school in dealing with any issues arising; take responsibility in the case of an accident or injury e.g. take child to hospital; give permission for field trips or special events and attend required functions at school.
Parents must complete the “Temporary Guardianship Form” available from reception where it should be returned on completion prior to the absence. You are also obliged to advise the classroom teacher/form teacher that you will be absent. This is essential in order for staff to ensure the safety and wellbeing of children.
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