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Parent Handbook 2019/20 Providing over 200 years of Outstanding Learning
Eaglesfield Paddle
CE Primary
Academy
“To be the Best you can be…!”
P a d d l e A c a d e m y : p r o v i d i n g 2 0 0 Y e a r s o f e x c e l l e n c e
Page 2
Welcome to our Outstanding School from the Headteacher
Dear Parents/Carers,
We are delighted you have chosen Eaglesfield Paddle CE Primary Academy and on
behalf of all the Staff and Governors we wish you a very warm welcome to the
“Paddle Family”.
Our experienced, highly motivated staff work hard to provide rich and varied
educational experiences, which are both fun and challenging for our children. Above
all we want everyone to be happy in our school. The content of this handbook will
give you a flavour of our happy school that strongly believes that through our Christian
ethos we can nurture every child to “be the best they can be!”
This handbook is to be read in conjunction with the school website to cover all areas
of school life. I hope that it will help you and your child with the transition to school
and to gain an understanding and insight in to the “Paddle” way of life.
Finally, I would encourage you to be involved as much as possible with the school.
Your child will greatly benefit by knowing you are interested in their progress, so I
warmly invite you to involve yourself in your child’s learning and please do all you can
to ensure that your child’s schooling is a partnership in their
learning journey in which we are all involved.
Mrs Dawn F V Watson
Headteacher
B Ed (Hons), Dip Ed, Man Ed, NPQH
_____________________________________________________________________
Eaglesfield Paddle CE Primary Academy
Eaglesfield, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 0QY
Tel: 01900 823188, Fax: 01900 829306
E-mail: [email protected]
www.eaglesfieldpaddle.cumbria.sch.uk
Cumbria LA
5 Portland Square, Carlisle, Cumbria, CA1 1PU
Tel: 01228 606877
Department for Education
Sanctuary Buildings, Great Smith Street, London, SW1P 3BT
P a d d l e A c a d e m y : p r o v i d i n g 2 0 0 Y e a r s o f e x c e l l e n c e
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Welcome from the Chair of Governors
At Eaglesfield Paddle, the Governors, staff and parents work closely together on the
strategic development of the school. The Governors are responsible for monitoring
and evaluating the performance and effectiveness of the school, for ensuring that
the budget is managed wisely and for supporting our excellent Staff.
Our aim is to promote high levels of educational achievement and to nurture the
uniqueness in each child in our care to reach their full potential alongside fostering
an understanding and passion for both their local and wider community.
We see all children as individuals with different interests, talents and capabilities. The
recognition of this is found in the rich curriculum and varied activities within the
school. It is in this way that we ensure that those important first years in Nursery &
Primary form the foundation stone for education in the future.
Whilst we strive to maintain the highest standards within the school, the Governors
are committed to continually improving all aspects of school life. Through an open
and consultative approach and listening to the broad range of views, we hope to
keep up our proud track record of success.
Our outstanding and consistent performance was recognised by OFSTED when
Inspectors visited in November 2008. In addition, we hold an ‘Outstanding’ rating
following the Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist School (SIAMS) in
October 2017.
As Chair of Governors I am incredibly privileged to be able to write this and I hope
this handbook gives you a flavour of the vibrant and supportive environment
Eaglesfield Paddle Academy offers its pupils.
I hope that your time with the Academy is very happy indeed and I look forward to
your close involvement with the “Paddle Family," working with us to ensure your child
achieves “The best they can be”.
Ann-Marie Steel
Chair of Governors
“The leadership has focused effectively on raising the standards achieved by pupils of all abilities and
promoting learners’ personal development and well-being, as well as ensuring that they are well
protected.” Ofsted
“The school is very well led and effectively managed. Relationships among the governors, headteacher
and staff are very productive. The governing body effectively discharges its responsibilities through well-
structured committees which actively pursue improvements in all aspects of the school's work.”
Ofsted
P a d d l e A c a d e m y : p r o v i d i n g 2 0 0 Y e a r s o f e x c e l l e n c e
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MISSION STATEMENT
Eaglesfield Paddle C. E. Primary Academy through its Christian ethos and curriculum
aims to enable to develop our children to “be the best you can be…!”
When our children leave our school, we aim for them to have the life skills that will
enable them to contribute positively to the wider community in which they will live.
Our aim is to discover and develop each child’s talent, and together with the
children and whole school community we have developed our aims to reflect the
outcomes we strive to accomplish for our pupils.
We endeavor to support our pupils to be…….
Proud
Achieving
Disciples
Dedicated to
Learning and
Empowered
“To be the best you can be…!”
P a d d l e A c a d e m y : p r o v i d i n g 2 0 0 Y e a r s o f e x c e l l e n c e
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SCHOOL ORGANISATION
At present there are 205 children aged 4 - 11 years at the school. In addition 28
children attend the nursery. There is a teaching staff of Headteacher, six full time
and five part time teachers. Each class has an allocated senior teaching assistant
each morning. This provides additional support for the class.
Year Groups have the following names
Foundation Stage
Nursery age 3 - 4
Reception age 4 - 5
Key Stage 1
Year 1 age 5 - 6
Year 2 age 6 – 7
Key Stage 2
Year 3 age 7 – 8
Year 4 age 8 – 9
Year 5 age 9 – 10
Year 6 age 10 – 11
When children move on from Y6 to Y7 (Secondary School) they will move in to KS3.
SCHOOL STATUS
Eaglesfield Paddle CE Primary Academy, known locally as Paddle School, is a Church of England Primary Academy for children aged 3 -11 years. As a Church of England School we have strong links with the church and our Christian values permeate our ethos, and we are accountable to the members of the Academy Trust. The Governors have total responsibility for the work and conduct of the school. In September l996 a 52 place nursery class was established, which serves an extended catchment area. A separate brochure is available for the nursery. After the 1998 Education Act was passed the school became a Voluntary Aided School in September 1999. The school was awarded Beacon status in 2001 in recognition of its outstanding work and achievements. Other achievements include Kidsafe Registered School 2015, Healthy School Status, Active Mark Sports Award and DFES Achievement Award 2000 and 2001 and 2002. The Achievement Award Scheme was then abandoned. The school was last inspected in November 2008 and for the second time received the highest possible grading of Outstanding in all areas. A school SIAS (Statutory Inspection of Anglican Schools) in 2012 graded the school outstanding. Eaglesfield Paddle CE Primary Academy serves the following communities: Eaglesfield, Greysouthen, Deanscales, Mosser, Pardshaw Hall, Pardshaw, Blindbothel, Brandlingill & Bridgefoot, (East of the River Marron). Our Christian Values
“Members of the school family demonstrate
their understanding of the Christian values of
love, trust and respect in the way in which
they share ideas and support each other.
Behaviour is excellent.”
SIAS 2012
P a d d l e A c a d e m y : p r o v i d i n g 2 0 0 Y e a r s o f e x c e l l e n c e
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STAFF FOR 2019/20
TEACHING STAFF
Head Teacher Mrs Dawn F V Watson
Early Years Teacher/Foundation Stage Leader Miss Janice Durham
Year 1 Teacher Mrs Sally Page
Year 2 Teacher Miss Danielle Thelen
Year 3 Teacher Mrs Claire Langstaff
Year 4 Teacher Miss Chloe Hillier
Year 5 Teacher & SENCO Mrs Joanne Palmer
Year 6 Teacher & Deputy Head Mrs Claire Fleming
Year 6 Teacher Miss Cath Lawler
Senior Teaching Assistants Mrs Nicky Vatter
Mrs Nicola Tyrrell
Mrs Helen Gate
Mrs Edwina Seward
Mrs Shelly Walker
Mrs Jackie Burgul
Teaching Assistant Apprentice Miss Bethan Hughes
ASSOCIATE MEMBERS OF STAFF
School Business Manager Mrs Claire Raven
Admin Staff
Administrator Mrs Roulla Worthington
Apprentice To be appointed
Kitchen Staff
Cook Ms Hayley Barton
Assistant Cook Ms Lorraine Tierney
Midday Supervisors Mrs Louise Caine
Mrs Emma Scott
Mrs Clair Cooper/Rickerby
Mrs Emma Hardy
Mrs Vanessa Taylor
Mrs Shona Grosset
Mrs Sue Booth
Cleaning Staff
Cleaner in Charge Mrs Janet Brown
Cleaners Mrs Clair Cooper-Rickerby
Mr Derek Brown
P a d d l e A c a d e m y : p r o v i d i n g 2 0 0 Y e a r s o f e x c e l l e n c e
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Leadership Team
Mrs Dawn Watson Miss Janice Durham Mrs Claire Fleming Mrs Joanne Palmer
Headteacher Early Years Teacher & Leader Y6 Teacher & Deputy Head Y5 Teacher/SENCO
Mrs Claire Raven
School Business Manager
Teaching Staff
Mrs Sally Page Miss Danielle Thelen Mrs Claire Langstaff Miss Chloe Hillier
Year 1 Teacher Year 2 Teacher Year 3 Teacher Year 4 Teacher
Miss Cath Lawler
Year 6 Teacher
P a d d l e A c a d e m y : p r o v i d i n g 2 0 0 Y e a r s o f e x c e l l e n c e
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Teaching Assistants
Mrs Nicola Tyrrell Mrs Shelly Walker Mrs Helen Gate Mrs Jackie Burgul
Senior TA Senior TA Senior TA Senior TA
Mrs Nicky Vatter Mrs Edwina Seward Miss Bethan Hughes Ms Rayne Chastney
Senior TA & Play Leader Senior TA Nursery Apprentice CATC Playworker
P a d d l e A c a d e m y : p r o v i d i n g 2 0 0 Y e a r s o f e x c e l l e n c e
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Support Staff
Mrs Roulla Worthington Mrs Janet Brown Mr Derek Brown Ms Hayley Barton
Administrator Cleaner in Charge Cleaner Cook
Ms Lorraine Tierney Mrs Emma Scott Mrs Clair Cooper-Rickerby Mrs Sue Booth
Assistant Cook Midday Supervisor Midday Supervisor/Cleaner Midday Supervisor
Mrs Shona Grosset Mrs Vanessa Taylor Mrs Louise Caine Miss Emma Hardy
Midday Supervisor Midday Supervisor Midday Supervisor Midday Supervisor
P a d d l e A c a d e m y : p r o v i d i n g 2 0 0 Y e a r s o f e x c e l l e n c e
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Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy can be found on the school website.
www.eaglesfieldpaddle.sch.uk
Access to Relevant Documents
Copies of school policy documents and approved minutes of the most recent Board
of Governors meetings are available on the school website. Copies of children’s
reports are held at school if parents wish to consult them.
After School Activities
We have a range of after school clubs on offer depending on the term these may
include; football, netball, cricket, tennis, archery, orienteering, drama, computers, film
club, sewing club, chess club and rock band. Musical lessons include choir, brass,
recorder, guitar and violin groups. These activities take place at lunch time or after
school. There is no school transport so parents are responsible for collecting children.
Occasionally there are weekend activities and tournaments. Parents will be notified
when these have been organised.
Girls Football and Orienteering club
“Teachers make a huge effort both in and out of school times.”
Family Feedback Questionnaire
P a d d l e A c a d e m y : p r o v i d i n g 2 0 0 Y e a r s o f e x c e l l e n c e
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Attendance & Absence
Punctuality:
To support your child to gain the greatest benefit from their education it is vital that
they attend regularly and on time. The morning bell sounds at 8.50am and school
begins promptly at 9.00am
Reporting Absence:
If you know in advance that children are going to be absent from school please
contact the school office on 01900 823188 by 9am on the first day of absence.
Where a child has been absent from school and we have not heard from you, a
courtesy call will be made.
It is important that you advise the school regarding all absences to ensure that your
child is appropriately safeguarded.
Absence Request:
Since September 2013 Government amendments to legislation no longer entitle
parents to remove their child from school for a holiday during term time.
Holidays during term time will not be authorised unless there are exceptional
circumstances.
Behaviour Policy
Our behaviour policy is based on mutual respect, respect for ourselves and respect
for others. Pupils are expected to uphold our Christian values, which encourage an
extremely high standard of behaviour. We expect that children will behave in such
a way that they will always be excellent ambassadors for the school and their
parents. A very strong emphasis is placed on personal manners.
It should be noted that the standard of discipline at the school is extremely high, the
children, staff and parents having a high regard for each other and each other’s
property. At Paddle school we build a high level of respect through building strong
relationships. We expect parents to support the school behavior policy and the
teacher’s professional judgement.
Full details of the school’s Behaviour Policy can be viewed on the school website.
Safeguarding
At Eaglesfield Paddle Academy staff and governors are committed to the
development of good practice and sound procedures to ensure all safeguarding
children concerns are handled in a professional and sensitive manner in
accordance with the latest guidance and legislation.
There are three main elements to our Safeguarding Policies; prevention, protection
and support. Any issues are directed to the Designated Safeguarding Leader (DSL),
Mrs Dawn Watson, Headteacher, or deputy DSLs, Mrs Claire Langstaff & Mrs Claire
Fleming.
P a d d l e A c a d e m y : p r o v i d i n g 2 0 0 Y e a r s o f e x c e l l e n c e
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Whilst your child is in school it is our responsibility to guarantee that your child is in a
safe environment and we have policies in place to ensure that this happens. All staff
receive Level 1 Safeguarding training and know what to do in the event of a
safeguarding concern.
If a child makes a disclosure to a member of staff, as dictated by the Government
and county council policy, the designated Safeguarding Officer may need to report
this for further investigation to Social Services. Parents are expected to work
alongside Social Services and the school to support the safeguarding of their child.
To support us in keeping your child safe, please be aware of the following points:
Should you need to collect or return your child to school during school hours, please
note that the main entrance to the school will be locked at all times.
Please use the entrance buzzer to gain access to the building and report to the
school office in the school entrance foyer immediately upon entering the school.
Please inform the school office before collecting/removing your child from school.
For security reasons all visitors to school must use the entrance buzzer to gain entry to
the building and report to the Office where they will be issued with an identification
badge. CCTV cameras are in operation both inside and outside the school.
Full details of our Safeguarding Policy can be viewed on the school website.
Break, Dinner & Session Times
School starts at 9.00am, the bell will sound at 8.50am for children to line up in the
playground and be collected by their class teacher. It is at this point when the
school becomes legally responsible for the children. To support parents we will
provide supervision on the school yard from 8.30am, however, parents are ultimately
responsible for their child’s well-being until 8.50am
The part of our school that houses our Nursery and Reception classes is called the
Early Years Unit. We have an entrance into this area from the school carpark and
through the Nursery garden. This access was created to give our ‘little Paddlers’ a
safe and quiet way to enter and leave the setting without the hustle and bustle of
the main school playground, while ensuring the safeguarding of pupils in the unit.
Please do not use the Early Years Unit as a ‘short cut’ into school. Parents who do
not have children in Nursery and Reception should use the main school entrance
when coming in and out of the building. Thank you for your understanding.
School opens at 08.50
Morning Session 09.00 - 12.00
Morning Break 10.30 - 10.45
Lunch 12.00 - 13.00
Afternoon Session 13.00 - 15.15
Afternoon Break (KS1 only) 14.30 - 14.45
P a d d l e A c a d e m y : p r o v i d i n g 2 0 0 Y e a r s o f e x c e l l e n c e
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Break times will be taken outside if the weather is fine. In wet weather, pupils will be
directed by their teachers as to where they can play. Children are encouraged to
take toilet breaks during their break times. Nursery and Reception children have
access to toilets in their classrooms for their use throughout the day.
During break times children can help themselves to fresh drinking water and bowls of
fresh fruit snacks provided by the school are available to children throughout the
day. We discourage salty and sugary snacks.
At the end of the school day all children will need to be collected by parents and
carers from their classroom teacher, unless they are using school transportation. In
the interest of safeguarding, please support your child’s class teacher by informing
them in advance if they are being collected by someone else.
Parents should collect children from the external door of the relevant classroom at
the end of the school day (apart from year 6 who should be collected from the
Main School Entrance). If you are going to be late please ring school as soon as
possible. After 3.25pm your child will be transferred into our after school club ‘Care
Around the Clock’ and a charge will be made.
We ask that children do not use the adventure playground at the beginning of the
day as supervision is difficult. If parents wish their children to use this after 3.15pm we
ask that they supervise and take full responsibility for their children. Parents are
welcome to bring children in the evenings, at weekends and during the holidays to
play on the equipment if they so wish, but do so at their own risk.
P a d d l e A c a d e m y : p r o v i d i n g 2 0 0 Y e a r s o f e x c e l l e n c e
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“Care Around The Clock! “ – wrap around before and after school club
From September 2014, we strengthened our care provision by providing before and
after school care clubs for children who attend our school.
The care club is run by our experienced and qualified Paddle School Teaching
Assistants who know the children well and understand their needs. The children are
provided with a nutritional breakfast and snack, as well as creative and active
games, accessing the outdoors as often as possible. Teaching assistants are able to
support children who attend with completing their homework.
Contact details
Telephone – 07436589547 from 7.30 am to 6pm (Monday to Friday).
This is a mobile telephone that is carried by the Senior Play Leader.
Please DO NOT use the school telephone number to make bookings or to contact
the Care around the Clock staff. The school office will not be staffed after school
hours to take calls.
Booking Fees (2018/19) & Opening times
Breakfast Club
Monday to Friday 7.45am – 8.30am
(children supervised on playground from 8.30 – 8.50am)
£3.60 per day
After School Club
Monday to Friday 3.15pm – 5.30pm.
£3.10 per hour or part of.
Care is provided term time only. Bookings can be made at short notice and by
telephone if you have completed your registration form and paid a £5 registration
fee. We encourage all parents to register, just in case of emergencies. No bookings
can be taken unless you are registered. All prices quoted are per session or part of.
Full details and information pack can be found on the school website.
Childcare Vouchers
We are pleased to advise our parents that Eaglesfield Paddle Academy is able to
accept childcare vouchers to pay for Nursery Extra Sessions and after school care
(Care around the Clock- CATC). You should contact your employer to
arrange these payments. The vouchers that we currently accept are listed below. If
your employer uses a different company please contact the school office.
Computershare (Reference 0018868772)
Care-4 (Reference 79275483)
Edenred (Reference P20905309)
NW Brown
Sodexo e-vouchers (Account number 833602)
Fideliti (Ref number EG012C)
P a d d l e A c a d e m y : p r o v i d i n g 2 0 0 Y e a r s o f e x c e l l e n c e
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Curriculum
The new National Curriculum has provided exciting opportunities for the staff to
review our existing curriculum at Eaglesfield Paddle School. We have endeavored
to ensure that it is broad and balanced, and promotes the spiritual, moral, cultural
and physical development of pupils and aims to prepare them fully for the
opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of adult life.
As an Academy we have chosen to follow the published curriculum in the core
subjects of Maths, English, Science and ICT.
The National Curriculum consists of 11 subjects: 3 core subjects; 8 foundation subjects
for primary age children; and Religious Education.
The 3 core subjects are: English; Mathematics; and Science.
The 8 foundation subjects are: Design and Technology; Computing; History;
Geography; Music; Art; Physical Education; and Languages.
The curriculum of the school is constantly under review and we are confident that it
meets the requirements of our pupils and develops a lifelong love of learning, as well
as important life skills and knowledge. We aim to create learning that will
encourage cross-curricular links, to enable the pupils to have the opportunity to
apply their skills across the curriculum.
Our curriculum includes: English; Mathematics; Topic Work/Environmental Studies;
(History, Geography; Science; Design & Technology / Computing); Music; Art/Crafts;
Physical Education; Religious Education; and Personal, Social and Health Education.
We treat children as unique individuals and understand that they develop at different
rates. We encourage them to work to their maximum capabilities, to “be the best
they can…!” At a time of constant change in education, it is important that teachers
keep abreast of new developments and initiatives by seeking and sharing best
practice. Through courses organised by the Local Authority and a variety of other
training providers, schools joining together to share skills and experiences, we know
that the teachers at Paddle will always be fully prepared to meet the needs of our
children and community.
“The school day is jam-packed with fun, hard work and playtime.”
Pupil, Year 6
P a d d l e A c a d e m y : p r o v i d i n g 2 0 0 Y e a r s o f e x c e l l e n c e
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FOUNDATION STAGE
Prime Areas: Personal, Social & Emotional Development;
Physical Development; Communication & Language
When our Reception children start school we try to build on the language experience
and skills that the children already possess. We use a variety of activities to stimulate
the development of speaking and listening skills. When children are involved with
sand and water or painting and modeling activities they are continually improving
and extending their vocabulary. Class teachers will use exciting objects and visitors
to stimulate class discussions. Interaction is very important because as children meet
and talk to many other people, peers, teachers, visitors and parents in different
situations, they become competent language users. Class discussions provide
valuable listening and learning experiences; children are encouraged to listen
carefully while others are speaking.
The inspectors agree with the school’s view that teaching and learning are
outstanding. This is directly related to the pupils’ positive attitudes and consistently
high levels of achievement. Ofsted
To enrich our curriculum we take children on visits and have travelling theatre groups
in school giving the children exciting listening opportunities.
FOUNDATION STAGE
Specific Areas: Literacy; Mathematics; Knowledge of the World;
and Expressive Arts & Design
Reading and writing skills are developed from the start by encouraging children to
make full use of the book corner and to share books with teachers and other children.
Around the room will be a variety of words, labels on furniture and captions on
displays. Single letters will also be displayed. Games are used as stimulus at every
stage to reinforce learning in an enjoyable way.
Reading
Children are encouraged to take books home and we encourage parents to take an
active interest in the books children bring home. Research has shown that the most
positive reading influence is where parents show a keen interest, model reading and
regularly listen and talk to their children about the books they are reading.
A strong phonic approach is used in the teaching of reading with the use of the
Department of Education’s Letters & Sounds Programme. A range of reading
schemes are used to build the skills needed to become a confident and expressive
reader.
P a d d l e A c a d e m y : p r o v i d i n g 2 0 0 Y e a r s o f e x c e l l e n c e
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Writing
The early stages of writing involve the teacher scribing what the child is saying about
their pictures. This progresses to the child ‘mark making’ through a variety of different
media and emergent writing using their phonic knowledge. As this develops children
quickly grow confident to write sentences and short stories. The children are
encouraged to use word cards and sounds displayed in the classroom to aid spelling,
but we try to strike a balance between fluent writing with phonic spelling and much
more structured work. Spelling is taught with reference to sound patterns. Use is made
of the computer to encourage writing skills as work is easily corrected and looks very
professional when printed.
“The outstanding teaching excites, challenges and inspires children to succeed.”
Ofsted
Making Marks in the Foundation Garden
A piece of reception writing
P a d d l e A c a d e m y : p r o v i d i n g 2 0 0 Y e a r s o f e x c e l l e n c e
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KEY STAGE 1 & 2
Speaking, Listening, Reading, Writing
In line with National Curriculum there are many opportunities, as the children get
older, for extending their speaking and listening skills. Children are encouraged to
work as members of groups and to present findings of work and experiments to the
rest of the class. Debate is often used with the older children and the questioning of
visiting speakers often takes place.
Class groups hold assemblies for parents to share and celebrate their learning. Plays
and productions are also part of our curriculum. This develops the ability to speak in
front of large audiences.
Once children have attained a level of fluency, a monitored free choice of up to date
reading materials is given. Time to read silently is set aside each week. Great emphasis
is placed on the higher order reading skills of scanning, skimming, summarizing and
inference. Children are encouraged to read for enjoyment.
At Key Stage 2 we try to provide as many opportunities as possible for children to use
different types of writing: creative; factual; and poetic. We believe children are best
stimulated when writing for a real purpose and a real audience. For example, they
might be asked to write stories for the younger children or to produce a detailed
account of a piece of work to accompany a display. Handwriting is taught on a
regular basis. There is a structured approach starting with the youngest children.
Celebrating our Writing
Jolted awake, Rouge rubbed her eyes and looked around. She knew this place
wasn’t safe so she calmly strolled through an alleyway when a twig snapped behind
her. As soon as it happened Rouge was already deep in the woods with the thing
behind her. She could feel it tearing at her heels letting out ear-splitting banshee
screams as it came closer and closer. Rouge’s legs were yelling at her to stop but
she managed to leap across a huge grassy bank then dive behind a rock – she was
now safe. In the distance, Rouge could just make out the silver lining of a glorious,
granite castle with turrets high in the clouds – this was almost too good to be true.
Suddenly, the ground beneath her gave way sending Rouge tumbling into the
abyss…
Running from evil shadow demons had started to become a habit thought Rouge as
she vaulted boulders and dived through prickly shrubs.
Year 6 Pupil
“The extremely high standards of pupils’ skills in speaking and listening are strengths
of the school. Attainment in writing is well above the national average.”
Ofsted
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KEY STAGE 1 & 2
Mathematics
In September 2014 the new National Curriculum was introduced and at Paddle
School we follow this as a basis for mathematics teaching. The approach to the
teaching of Maths is based on the following key principles:
· dedicated mathematics lesson every day;
· direct teaching and interactive oral work with whole class and groups;
· a strong emphasis on mental calculation and patterns;
· controlled differentiation, with all pupils engaged in mathematics relating to a
common theme;
· emphasis on deeper learning, application of skills and knowledge into
problem solving.
Maths is everywhere! Maths can be found all around us in our daily environment;
teachers use this to make mathematics real, purposeful and fun. The work, wherever
possible, is practically based to aid understanding. We carefully monitor the progress
of the children through ongoing teacher assessment (formative) and end of term tests
(summative).
Our laptops, iPads and iPods are used extensively as part of our mathematics
curriculum. Use of the outdoors is encouraged for children to apply their
mathematical learning in a real life environment. Multiplication tables are taught
throughout the school to ensure quick recall of multiplication/division factors.
Occasionally, children will be asked to learn mathematical facts at home or
undertake an investigation. We hope that parents will take an interest in this work
in the teaching of mathematics.
Young Professors at our Mathematics Wall
“Teachers interest and stimulate pupils very well. They present new ideas clearly
and use a range of methods to make lessons enjoyable, to keep pupils’ interest and
to involve them in their learning.”
Ofsted
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KEY STAGE 1 & 2
Computing
Computing skills are taught on a progressive basis with all classes having access to
laptops, iPads and iPods. All classes have interactive multi-screens. We firmly believe
that computing should be an integrated aspect of all areas of the curriculum and in
the classroom at the ’point of learning’. With our future funding we aim to keep up to
date with changes in technology so that each pupil at Paddle will have access to
changing technology, preparing them for modern life. We are linked to the internet
via a satellite and children regularly use email and search the web for Information.
Each classroom has its own computer terminal and internet link. Our web site address
is www.eaglesfieldpaddle.cumbria.sch.uk
A key aspect of our computing curriculum is online safety. This is taught progressively
at an age related level.
iPad aided study in year 6
KEY STAGE 1 & 2
Modern Foreign Languages
Having the ability to speak a modern foreign language is an essential life skill for our
pupils. This will give them the confidence of strong communication within the world
context. French is taught through a fun interactive style, which ensures the children
develop their skills confidently.
Art and Craft
Painting, drawing, collage activities and model making often form part of our topic
activities. We believe that the arts are an invaluable way for children to express their
feelings and creativity. Skills in art are developed progressively throughout school and
a great stimulus for art –based work is the inspiration that children experience during
our residentials. The teachers use every opportunity to use the expertise of visiting
artists who work with groups on particular techniques.
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KEY STAGE 1 & 2
Physical Education
Children at Paddle experience a rich Physical Education curriculum, benefitting from
unusually generous facilities given our village location and size. We have a large sports
hall, two playgrounds, ampitheatre, pond, and a sports field (not to mention the
wonderful Lake District in our back garden)! This allows us great flexibility to offer a
rich and broad curriculum. A strong emphasis is based on developing skills in the
formative years. Our curriculum is structured around Dance, Gymnastics and Games
with Outdoor Education featuring strongly in our extensive Residential Programme.
We are currently making the most of the Primary School PE and Sports Funding. This
year we have ‘bought into’ the local Sports Partnership which provides us with
qualified coaches to work alongside our teaching team providing professional
development and ensuring outstanding provision. More information can be found on
our website.
Throughout Key Stage 2 all children will take part in ‘blocks’ of swimming lessons. The
PCA make special arrangements for the in Key Stage 1 children to attend the pool
after school for swimming lessons. It is our aim that all children will be able to swim to
Intermediate Standard before leaving Paddle Academy.
Competitive Sports
At Paddle we are fully inclusive in the opportunities we provide. We recognise that
young people need early exposure to competitive sport and to experience the
enjoyment that competition can bring. We believe that whether it be ‘taking part that
counts’ or ‘winning at all costs’, competitive sport can and should be enjoyed by all.
All children take part in Intra-School competition including our annual sports day. The
vast majority of children will experience Inter-School competition through our cluster
events with other schools and extra-curricular clubs. We currently offer the following
clubs: Netball; Football; Orienteering; Cricket; Rounders; Tennis & Archery. We are
fortunate to have excellent links with many local clubs and associations and can
signpost children with potential or interest in the right direction to help them take their
participation further.
School Sports Teams
From Reception your child will be allocated to one of the following house teams:
Sale Fell – Blue Team
Grassmoor – Green Team
Skiddaw – Red Team
Melbreak – Yellow Team
Your child’s team colours will be worn as part of their PE kit. The PE Kit consists of shorts
and a T-Shirt. The shorts are black and the T- shirts come in your child’s team
colour. Please contact your child’s class teacher if you are unsure which team your
child is in. More information on how to order PE kits can be found under ‘Uniform &
School Clothing’.
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Music
Music is taught following the “Musical Express Scheme”, Charanga and Sing Up. This
covers all programmes of study, exploring many styles of music from a variety of
cultures. Children also get a wealth of experience in music through their topic work
with performances and working in groups. We have peripatetic teachers who visit
school to provide additional tuition in violin, viola, brass, guitar, keyboards and
recorders.
In Year 3 children access a wider opportunities lesson where each child learns how to
play a brass musical instrument one afternoon per week. This is paid for from the
school curriculum budget. The instruments used are provided by Cumbria County
Council. We have an Infant and a Junior Choir, led by Mrs Watson and Mrs Chalker,
who contribute their talents in festivals and concerts.
Years 3 and 4 Cumbrian Musician Visit
KEY STAGE 1 & 2
Environmental Studies, Science & Technology
The traditional subjects of History, Geography and Science, along with Design
Technology, are taught in the form of a topic, each topic having a scientific
geographical or historical element. We try to build on the children's existing
knowledge. We make extensive use of the environment around the school and the
community as a whole. This increases the children's knowledge and understanding
of where they live. Through being involved in work directly relating to the place in
which they live, it is hoped that the children will develop a love and respect for their
immediate environment. As part of this work we are continually developing the land
around the school to provide an important learning resource. As members of the
National Trust we work alongside volunteers to conserve the national environment
that surrounds us.
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Educational Visits and Residential Experience
Throughout the school year children will be taken on visits as part of their topic work.
The consent of parents will always be sought when such visits are taking place. The
visits will always have a clear educational objectives.
All Key Stage 2 children are given the opportunity to take part in a residential visit.
Years 3 and 4 spend two nights away. When the children reach year 5 and 6 they
take part in a week long residential visit, normally three or four nights away, either rural
or urban. Since 1999 we have also been offering a night away from home to our year
2 children. These residential visits are very valuable learning experience as they give
the children the opportunity to use and develop some of the academic and social
skills already gained and help to promote independence, social skills and team
building.
“Pupils think of themselves as ambassadors of the school when they participate in a
wide variety of shared activities with other schools and the community. They show
great pride in their school.”
Ofsted
KEY STAGE 1 & 2
Sex, Relationships and Drugs Education
The school has a structured approach to the teaching of sex and drugs education.
We follow the ‘Jigsaw’ Scheme of work. Our policy has been incorporated into the
everyday work of the school. Our older children, as part of their work, focus on health
education issues. Use is made of a sex education video produced by the BBC. This is
available for parents to view if they wish. Parents have the right to withdraw children
from sex education lessons. The Life Education Bus visits the school each year to work
with all the classes. During this week all aspects of Health Education are covered.
“All the teachers are kind and caring and if you need their help they will always be
there for you.”
Pupil, Year 6
KEY STAGE 1 & 2
Religious Education
As we are a Church of England School we have very close links with St Philips, our
church, and hold services and worship there. We deliver an R.E. curriculum that
encourages children to learn about Christianity and explore other religions and
beliefs. Developing strong Christian values, through creating awe and wonder in our
learning, provides opportunities for children to explore the bigger questions in life
and their own spiritual development.
“Eaglesfield Paddle is an outstanding school with a distinctive Christian ethos of caring
and sharing.”
SIAS Inspection 2012
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Homework
The Home Learning policy can be found on our school website, below are our
expectations for Home Learning in each class:
Reception
Daily reading – Oxford Reading tree, free choice or library book
Key words/ Phonics, as deemed necessary by the teacher
Daily mental mathematics
Maths when appropriate
Year 1 & 2
Daily reading
Daily mental mathematics
A Literacy activity each week
Maths – 15 mins per week
Key words and phonic words
Year 3 & 4
A Literacy activity each week
Daily reading
Daily mental mathematics
Topic when appropriate
Maths – 20 mins per weeek
Year 5
A Literacy activity each week
Daily reading
Daily mental mathematics
Topic when appropriate
Maths – 30 mins per week
Year 6
A Literacy and Numeracy activity each week
Daily reading
Daily mental mathematics
Topic when appropriate
SATs revision in the Spring/Summer term
IXL Maths - 45mins per week
“This is an exceptional school. In this judgement, the inspectors agree with the
school’s self evaluation. Pupils are set challenging targets for their learning
behaviour and attitudes. They enjoy meeting these challenges and work very hard.
Throughout the school, high standards have been consistently achieved for a
number of years. Parents rightly comment on their children’s high levels of
achievement and strongly value the exemplary care and guidance which is given
by staff and school management. The quality of teaching is consistently very good
and frequently outstanding. Pupils make excellent progress in all key stages,
including the Foundation Stage.”
Ofsted
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Data Protection Act Fair Processing Notice
Schools, local education authorities and the Dept. For Education & Skills all hold
information on pupils in order to run the education system and, in doing so, have to
follow the Data Protection Act 1988. This means, amongst other things, that the
data held about pupils must only be used for specific purposes allowed by law. The
full policy outlining the types of data held, why that data is held and to whom it may
be passed on, is available in school for parents or other interested parties to see. This
policy has been approved by the Information Commissioners.
Early Years Pupil Premium (EYPP)
The government provides Early Years Pupil Premium (EYPP) additional funding for
early years settings to improve the education they provide for disadvantaged 3 and
4 year olds. Early years providers are any organisation that offers education for
children aged under 5, including nurseries and childminders.
3 and 4 year olds in state-funded early education will attract EYPP funding if they
meet at least 1 of the following criteria:
Income Support
income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
income-related Employment and Support Allowance
support under part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
the guaranteed element of State Pension Credit
Child Tax Credit (provided they’re not also entitled to Working Tax Credit and
have an annual gross income of no more than £16,190)
Working Tax Credit run-on, which is paid for 4 weeks after they stop qualifying
for Working Tax Credit
Universal Credit
Or if
• they have been in local-authority care for 1 day or more in England or Wales
• they have been adopted from care in England or Wales
• they have left care under a special guardianship order or residence order in
England or Wales
Children must receive free early education in order to attract EYPP funding.
However, they do not have to take up the full 570 hours of early education they are
entitled to in order to get EYPP. Children become eligible for free early education at
different points in the year depending on when they turn 3. Please note that 4 year
olds in primary school reception classes who already receive the school-age pupil
premium are not eligible for EYPP funding.
If you feel that your child may be eligible for this additional funding please contact
Mrs Raven in the school office for a copy of the application form.
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First Aid
All staff receive Emergency First Aid in School Training. A number of additional staff
have Paediatric First Aid Training (Staff in Early Years and CATC Staff). Senior
Members of staff have Level 2 and Level 3 Safeguarding Training.
Freedom of Information Act
In line with the Freedom of Information Legislation this school has adopted a
publication policy approved by the LEA. All policies and documents are available
on line on the school website.
Governing Body
The Church Council in the form of Mosser Parochial Church Council and the Carlisle
Diocesan Education Committee appoint the seven Foundation Governors. The
Vicar of Mosser is an ex officio member.
The Headteacher and two representatives of the staff are also governors along with
two elected Parent Governors and a Community Governor.
Foundation Governors (Term of Office 4 Years)
Mrs Ann Marie Steel (Chair)
Mr Jeffrey Hamilton (Vice Chair)
Mrs Lynn McNeil
Mr Patrick Sharman
Mrs Caroline Tiffen
Mrs Hannah Gillam
We currently have three Foundation governor vacancies
Community Governor
Mr Simon Tucker
Parent Governors (Term of Office 4 years)
Mrs Felicity Boyles
We have a parent governor vacancy to be appointed in September 2019
Staff Representatives
Mrs Claire Fleming
Mrs Nicky Vatter
Ex Officio
Mrs Dawn F V Watson Headteacher
Clerk to the Governors
Mrs Claire Raven
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Eaglesfield Paddle CE Primary Academy Governing Body
Mrs Ann-Marie Steel Mr Jeffrey Hamilton Mrs Dawn Watson Mr Patrick Sharman
Chair of Governors Vice-Chair of Governors Headteacher Foundation Governor
Mrs Lynn McNeil Mrs Caroline Tiffen Mrs Hannah Gillam Mr Simon Tucker
Foundation Governor Foundation Governor Foundation Governor Community Governor
Mrs Claire Fleming Mrs Nicky Vatter Mrs Felicity Boyles
Staff Governor Staff Governor Parent Governor Parent Governor
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If you need to contact our Governors you can do so through Mrs Ann-Marie Steel, in
her position as Chair of Governors or through Mrs Claire Raven, in her position as
Clerk to Governors.
Mrs Steel has a dedicated email address for all governance matters:
Mrs Raven also has a dedicated email address for all governance matters:
[email protected] or you can contact her through the school
on 01900 823188.
All communication will be treated in confidence. If you are interested in joining our
governing body there are future opportunities for new parent Governors to stand for
this position. Parent Governors are elected by a secret ballot and each parent of a
child at the school is eligible to stand for this position and vote in the election.
Parents will be kept informed as vacancies arise.
Hire our Hall, Meeting Rooms & Grounds
Do you need a large venue for a special event? Would you like to use a large
indoor space for a party or fitness/sport event? If so, our facilities are available (out
of school hours) at a competitive rate, with all profits from this going to support the
school.
For further booking information please contact the School Business Manager, Mrs
Claire Raven, by email or telephone: Email:
[email protected] Tel: 01900 823188
Lost Property
Please label all items of your child’s clothing and PE kits, including footwear. Items of
lost property are kept in the lost property box in the school foyer. Clothing labels are
available to purchase from our uniform supplier. See ‘Uniform & School Clothing’ for
more information.
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Lunch – School Meals, Midday Supervision & Packed Lunches
Our 5 star kitchen provides a midday meal, cooked in the school kitchen and served
in our hall. Nursery children are served their lunch in a smaller and quieter side room
adjoining the main hall. We have set-menus and a family service where two of our
older children serve the meal to a table of eight children. We serve healthy fresh
produce, wherever possible sourced locally. This development was a major element
in the school being awarded “Healthy School Status”. Current menus can be found
on our school website.
The cost of a school dinner is £2.35 per day. Every child in reception, year 1 and year
2 in state-funded schools receive a free school lunch.
Lunch money is paid in advance for the week, half-term or term online via
Parentmail (see ‘Parentmail’ for more information). Meals paid for but not eaten,
due to sickness absence or school trips, are credited for the following week. No
distinction is made between children paying for school meals and those entitled to a
free school meal. If your child is eligible for free school meals, it's worth registering
them. This is because schools receive a 'Pupil Premium' - an extra payment for each
eligible child which they can spend on services to help them do their very best.
Registering might also get you extra help for things like music lessons or school trips.
If parents would like their children to change from eating a packed lunch to eating
a school meal and vice versa, at least 7 days notice is required to facilitate kitchen
staff with food ordering.
During lunch times, our team of midday supervisors attend to the children during the
lunch hour, assisting in the lunch hall and supervising in the playground or classroom
during wet lunch times.
Packed lunches
Children wishing to bring their own packed lunch are welcome to do so although
we ask that parents provide a healthy packed lunch for their child and we
respectfully request that no nuts are brought in to school for snacks or packed
lunches as we have a number of children with severe nut allergies.
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National Tests
COMPARATIVE REPORT KS1
This table shows a summary of the 2018 National Curriculum assessment results of
pupils in the school and nationally at the end of Key Stage 1.
Expected
Greater Depth
Reading School 85% 31%
National 75% 26%
Writing School 85% 15%
National 70% N/A
Mathematics School 85% 23%
National 76% 22%
KS1 Phonics
(Year 1)
School 86%
National 82%
COMPARATIVE REPORT KS2
This table shows the percentage of Year 6 pupils achieving end of KS2 expectations
and greater depth in learning in 2018 compared to national test results.
Expected High Score
Reading School 91% 44%
National 75% 28%
Writing School 94% 30%
National 78% 20%
Mathematics School 84% 48%
National 76% 24%
Spelling, Punctuation
and Grammar
School 88% 48%
National 78% 34%
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Nursery
Eaglesfield Paddle CE Primary Academy is an exciting rural school and nursery. Our
primary objective is to give all the children the very best possible start to their
education through the provision of a rich and relevant curriculum. The highly
trained and experienced nursery staff ensure that all the children have the
opportunity to learn and grow in a supportive and stimulating environment. Each
child is unique and learning within our Nursery is personalised to enable all children
to “be the best they can be”. Our Nursery Brochure is available on the school
website or from the school office.
Settling in
It is vitally important that we get to know you and your child prior to them starting at
Nursery. We will arrange a home visit for the beginning of the term your child starts.
These are informal chances to meet and talk to you and your child in an
environment that is familiar to them. These visits provide opportunities to discuss
necessary information, such as sleeping and eating habits, food likes and dislikes,
who lives in the house, things they enjoy doing. It also provides opportunities to
discuss any worries about your child’s health and wellbeing.
In September we have a staggered starting procedure, to ensure all children are
settled into nursery smoothly. Small groups begin by attending Nursery for an hour
with their parent or carer. This allows the staff time to make sure each child settles
comfortably and happily in Nursery and they are not overwhelmed by the volume of
children in the class.
The following day the children are invited to stay for the whole session, but this
depends on each individual’s needs and how well they settle.
Snacks
During the morning your child will be invited to have a snack. We provide a healthy
snack and drink during each session, and we ask parents to make a voluntary
contribution of 30p per day towards the cost of this and activities such as baking.
Snack time encourages independence, social skills, taking turns, health and
hygiene, sensory awareness - touch, taste, smell etc. It also helps with mathematical
language - how many, full, empty, half, whole etc., science - baking, properties of
ingredients used, naming of ingredients, foods from around the world etc.
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Nursery
Session Times & Fees
At Eaglesfield Paddle we are pleased to be able to offer up to 30 hours of free
childcare for working parents of 3 and 4 year olds. All 3 and 4 year olds are eligible
for up to 15 hours of free nursery education per week over 38 weeks. These free
sessions are funded by the government and this equates to five morning sessions of
three hours per week.
Children who are eligible for up to 30 hours of free childcare will be offered full day
sessions. To check your eligibility for 30 hours please apply online at
www.childcarechoices.gov.uk or for further information contact the Parent HMRC
Helpline Number 0300 123 4097.
Parents must apply for funding the term before they intend to access their 30 hours.
Parents should then provide the school with their eligibility code, National Insurance
number and the child’s date of birth for a verification check.
Nursery sessions should be arranged through the school office in advance with a set
schedule in place for each half term. Any fees for nursery sessions that are not
covered by government funding should be paid in advance at the start of each half
term. Invoices will be distributed at the start of each half term in a hard copy and
can be paid via the ‘School Shop’ on ‘ParentMail’. We are pleased to accept
various childcare voucher schemes, please see ‘Childcare Voucher Schemes’ or our
website for an up-to-date list.
There will be no refunds for missed Nursery sessions, and although if possible we will
try to accommodate your child in an alternative session, this may not always be
possible. If you have any questions please contact the school office.
The times of the Nursery sessions are below:
Morning Session 09.00 – 12.00
Morning Session with lunch 09.00 – 13.00
Afternoon Session (with lunch) 12.00 – 15.00
All Day session 09.00 – 15.00
Cycling Fun in the nursery garden
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Nursery
Monitoring, Assessment & Reporting
We work hard to promote a happy and harmonious relationship with both children
and parents, encouraging parents to take an active role in learning. We consider it
essential that there is a regular two-way flow of information, so we make time to talk
to parents or carers at the beginning and end of each day to share information.
The staff in the Nursery are continually observing and assessing the children to help
inform next steps planning. Observations are made in a variety of ways, through
joining children in their play during child led activities and asking questions to
develop their ideas, as well as working with small groups and individuals in teacher
led activities. Displays in the classroom will show you the activities that the children
have been doing and we will also regularly share observations through an online
piece of educational software called ‘Tapestry’. The advantages of this type of
‘Learning Journey’ are:
Tapestry allow us to keep video evidence of the children which is a powerful
assessment tool, particularly with regards to Communication and language
and role play.
Tapestry has the facility to email parents whenever a new observation is
added to their child’s Learning Journey to keep you up-to-date with what
your child has been learning about in school.
Parents have access 24/7 to their child’s Learning Journey and we encourage
parents to add comments on the observations added by school staff and to
add their own to share progress and milestones achieved at home.
Parents will need to provide an email address and accounts are password
protected. Parents will be issued with usernames and passwords on receipt of the
completed Tapestry image consent and agreed guidelines form. You will be invited
to attend Parents’ evenings where you will learn more about the nursery and the
individual progress of your child. There are also regular opportunities for you to get
involved in nursery life if you are able to do so.
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Paddle Community Association (PCA)
The PCA was formed in 1990 and is a registered charity. It is run by parents who
volunteer their time to arrange fundraising events which support and enhance the
school financially, educationally and socially.
Over the past 26 years it has organised a wide range of fundraisers and activities
which are held regularly throughout the school year. These include events like the
Christmas Market, Christmas Hamper Raffle, Summer Fair, Coffee Mornings, Air
Ambulance Bag Collections and Valentines Disco.
Not only do these events raise additional funding for our school and other external
charities (ie Macmillan Cancer Support, Great North Air Ambulance Service), they
also promote an excellent partnership between the children, teachers, parents and
the local community.
Meetings are held approximately 5 times a year, to plan and discuss events.
Everyone is welcome to attend and being part of the PCA is an excellent way to
meet other parents, as well as improving school facilities for all children at Eaglesfield
Paddle Academy. The PCA would love to see more parents get involved so please
take a look at their new Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/PaddleCommunityAssociation/
Please feel free to join the PCA knowing that you do not have to attend every
meeting but you will be hugely appreciated if you can help in any way. They are
aware that all parents are busy like themselves so it is better to have a lot of people
who can offer some help some of the time, rather than a few parents having to do
everything all the time. As member parents of older children move closer to the end
of school, new volunteers are needed to take over and keep up the good work. If
you have any fundraising ideas, the PCA would love to hear from you.
Staff and parents who run the charity are:
Edwina Seward (Chairman), Sue Booth (Secretary) and Helen Farris (Treasurer).
You can contact the PCA via their mailbox in the school foyer, their Facebook page
or by email at [email protected]
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For parents who don’t have time to get involved with the PCA, please may we ask
you to help your school fundraise for free when you shop on-line.
Did you know that whenever you buy anything online - from your weekly shop to
your annual holiday - you could be raising a free donation for your school. There are
nearly 3,000 retailers on board ready to make a donation, including Amazon, John
Lewis, Aviva, the Trainline and Sainsbury's – it doesn't cost you a penny extra so join
today!
It's really simple, all you have to do is:
1. Join. Sign up for free.
Head to https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/eppta/
2. Shop.
Every time you shop online, go to easyfundraising first, pick the retailer you want and
start shopping.
3. Raise.
After you’ve checked out, that retailer will make a donation to your good cause for
no extra cost whatsoever!
There are no catches or hidden charges and it’s free money for the school so please
join in and when you shop online do it via easyfundraising.
Thank you for your support.
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Parent’s Evenings/ Parent Teacher Meetings
At the beginning of the year, teachers will hold an informal evening for parents. This
will provide an opportunity to discuss class routines, homework and any questions that
parents may have. There are two further formal occasions during the school year
when parents come to school to discuss their children's progress in confidence. These
meetings are held in November and February and it is hoped that all parents will
attend these meetings.
Teachers will make parents aware of children’s strengths and targets. We continually
assess children in line with National Curriculum requirements and record this
information in the child's progress. Our own assessments are complemented by
Department for Education and Skills Standard Assessment Tests for Year 2 and Year 6
children, and National Phonics Testing at year 1.
We hope that parents feel that Paddle is a welcoming place and that they feel able
to discuss openly with staff any problems or worries they may have regarding their
children as they arise. The best time for this is after school, as in the mornings teachers
are preparing for the day’s activities. If only a word is required though, you will find
staff in their classroom by 8.30am.
Annually, children present their learning in assemblies for parents. Parents will be
informed of the dates and are warmly invited to attend at 2.30pm on a Friday.
“We welcome the open approach, to be able to look in pupils work books.”
Family questionnaire Feedback
Parents in School
We very much appreciate parents and other members of the community sharing their
skills and time with us. This year we have had parents working in school in a variety of
ways. These have included talking about their jobs and experiences, cooking, sewing,
reading, painting and modeling, playing maths games, working with the computers,
teaching recorders and singing, transporting children and helping on educational
visits. We value this help greatly.
All ‘regular volunteers’ are required to complete a DBS check, signed relevant
policies, and provide two references.
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Parentmail: www.pmx.parentmail.co.uk
At Paddle Academy we use an electronic payment and messaging service called
‘Parentmail’. Parentmail is a service used to communicate to parents and allow
parents to make payments from your phone or computer. Parentmail will bring your
many benefits such as:
- Messages will get to you reliably and on time instead of being forgotten and
lost in the bottom of a school bag.
- We can send messages directly to mums, dads and other carers at the same
time.
- Emergency or important information can be sent to by text message (for
example; school closures, road closures, bus delays, medical issues, school trip
reminders)
- You can pay for dinner money, school trips and other items online via your
account.
-
When your child starts at Paddle Academy you will be given a letter with a code to
register. If you already have a Parentmail account with another school, club or
nursery you can link to another school so that you can manage your
communications and payments from the one account.
Please be assured that Parentmail is registered with the Data Protection Registrar
and guarantees that all information you provide will be kept private and will not be
passed onto any other organisation.
Parent Workshops
Parent workshops have been run throughout the year based on feedback requests
from parents. Past workshops have included Spelling, Phonics, Assessment, New
Curriculum and IXL workshops. We keep parents updated on forthcoming workshops
via our School Newsletter which is distributed in school and through Parentmail. All
parents and carers are invited to attend.
“Parent’s workshops are good and informative.”
Family questionnaire Feedback
Parking & Driving on School Grounds
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During the start and end of the school day the school car park can become very
busy. Please may we ask you to support us in keeping our children safe by
observing the following points when dropping off and picking up your child.
To reduce the number of cars visiting the school during drop off and collection times:
• Please use the free school transport provided by the local authority If your child
lives in the school catchment areas of Eaglesfield, Greysouthen, Mosser, Deanscales
& Pardshaw.
• Consider car sharing with other families if you live outside catchment
If driving on the school grounds parents must:
• Stick to the 5 mph speed limit on the school grounds
• Not park in the school bus bays or gateway of the school entrance at any time
• Drive in a clockwise direction around the car park only
• Not park in the disabled parking space unless you have a disabled sticker
• Only park in designated spaces in the school carpark
• Not park along the grassy bank entrance to the carpark, cars should park on the
left-hand side of the approach road only
• Not park in the coned off access area for deliveries and waste collection
• Not drive on the path outside the school
Thank you for your support in keeping our children safe.
Pastoral Care
We are aware that many factors can affect a child's progress and performance at
school. Our staff are highly trained to understand the emotional, social and physical
development needs of the children in our care. We have a senior leader (Mrs Claire
Langstaff) and a designated Higher Level Teaching Assistant (Mrs Linzi Fulton) who
has specialised training in personal development and mental health. We aim to
keep honest and open lines of communication with parents and appreciate parents
informing us of any issues both at home and school. Most issues can usually be dealt
with by class teacher. Where this is not the case, parents will be contacted so that
the matter can be discussed and a solution found.
“The school takes excellent care of its pupils.”
Ofsted
Personal Accident Insurance
Some parents wrongly assume that if a child is injured at school, the Governors are
held responsible regardless of the circumstances and that its insurance will
automatically apply. This is not so. The Governors’ responsibility is strictly limited to
cases of negligence by them or their staff. Accidents can happen in school, on the
sports field or during school visits, when the Governors or their staff are not in any
way at fault they and are, therefore, not responsible. Previously it was the parents’
responsibility to take out personal accident insurance. However, the Governors
have decided that they, as part of new insurance provisions for the school, will
provide personal accident cover for the children. This cover provides substantial
compensation in the event of serious injury.
Personal Property
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From Year 1, every child will be allocated a locker for storage of their personal
property. Valuable articles, money and mobile devices are not permitted in school.
On occasions such as school coffee mornings and special events, children will be
advised if they are permitted to bring a small amount of money with them. Teachers
will advise if children are permitted to bring devices or money on school trips.
Policy Statement: Charges for School Activities
1. The admission of a child to Eaglesfield Paddle C of E Primary Academy and the
formal curriculum offered to a registered pupil is not subject to charge or the parent's willingness to make a voluntary contribution.
2. The Governors believe that it enriches the curriculum for children to leave the
school site for educational visits and activities. The Paddle school environment and the environment of Cumbria as a whole, place a premium on Environmental Studies and Outdoor Education. The Governors feel that activities outside the classroom are to be very much encouraged. In organising events the Governors ensure that those staff responsible, will always have clear educational objectives in mind, whether cultural, artistic, sporting or linguistic. Governors are very keen that every child should have the opportunity for residential experience at some stage in their Primary school career.
3. The Governors wish to see the curriculum enriched as far as possible for the benefit of all pupils. They recognise that whatever public funds are made available they will never be sufficient to fund all desirable activities at the required level. They, therefore, reserve the right to:
(a) pass on charges for activities offered as an optional extra wholly or mainly
outside school hours;
(b) draw to the attention of parents, activities organized by a third party,
thereby giving parents the opportunity to request leave of absence for
their children during the school day to join those activities. In those
circumstances, charges may well be levied by the third party;
(c) seek voluntary contributions from parents to fund activities either within or
outside school hours and to provide incidentals, for example books &
equipment;
(d) charge parents at cost, or in kind, for materials if parents have agreed in
advance to own a finished product.
4. At the time when any such activity is organised, all parents should be advised
that anyone in receipt of family credit or income support is entitled to claim
remission of charges for board and lodging on residential trips that are not
optional extras. Anyone who has this entitlement should contact the
Headteacher in writing immediately.
Right of Complaint
The Education Reform Act requires the Governors to establish arrangements
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whereby parents and others can have complaints considered formally on a local
basis. These arrangements are in no way intended to take the place of the
opportunities parents and others currently have for discussing their concerns with
staff in school. Indeed, it is expected that the great majority of complaints will
continue to be resolved at this informal level.
Where it has not proved possible to resolve a complaint through informal discussion,
parents have a right of formal complaint to a panel of the Governing Body of the
school. If they are dissatisfied with the outcome of the consideration of their
complaint at this level, they have a further right of complaint to the Secretary of State
for Education.
School Councillors
Each year children vote for two school councilors from their class to represent their
year. The school council meet regularly with the Headteacher on improving our
school, to make it “the best it can be…!”
School Development & Refurbishment
Since 1995 the school buildings have been transformed by five major extensions and
refurbishment’s costing in excess of £1,000,000. These Developments have created for
the children, staff and parents a wonderful environment in which to work, play and
learn. The governors are constantly looking at ways to improve the school
environment so that our buildings are able to meet the demands of a 21st Century
curriculum.
“The school is an extremely efficient organization.”
Ofsted
School Fund
The school fund account is held by the Lloyds TSB Bank in Cockermouth. This fund is
used to buy the many extras which cannot be provided by the General School
Budget. Recently we have subsidised educational visits for all the children and paid
for visiting theatre groups, artists in residence and other creative performers.
The income for this account comes from fund raising activities like Christmas Fairs and
sponsored events. We will usually try to hold one major event each term and ask that
parents support this fully. The statements of account are presented to the Governors
annually. Expenditure is also monitored by the Responsible Officer.
School Newsletter
Each month a School Newsletter ‘The Paddle Post’ is emailed to parent. This is
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intended to keep everyone informed about school events, holiday dates and the
achievements of our children. The school newsletter can also be found on our
website, alongside a variety of information about our school and class blogs.
School Trustees
The School fields, 20 acres in total, are managed by a board of trustees. The
trustees have the responsibility for managing the land to the benefit of the school
and the local community.
Sickness Policy & Accidents
If your child is sick, please contact the school office on 01900 823188 before 9.30am
to advise us that your child will be absent from school. As per NHS Guidelines, your
child should remain off school until 48 hours following the last bout of sickness or
diarrhea. For any other illness please check the NHS Choices website for details.
We like to know where parents can be contacted during school hours, especially if
both parents are working. Please give us any alternative address or telephone
number to be used in an emergency. The name of your family doctor is also of use
to us under certain circumstances. It is important to tell us of any disability or
recurring illness (for example; deafness, weakness resulting from a major operation)
which may have an effect upon your child while in our care. School staff are trained
to deal with first aid incidents. Parents will always be informed of any serious
incidents.
Special Education Needs
At Paddle Academy we are fully inclusive. We recognise that some children will
have particular learning and assessment needs which may require additional
support to enable them to reach their full potential. This includes children with
special educational needs, disabilities, social and economic factors, English as an
additional language, or children who are gifted and talented in a specific area of
learning. For these individuals, or groups of children, our approach to teaching and
learning includes making ‘additional to’ or making ‘different from’ provision. This will
enable children to participate effectively at their own level in the curriculum and
assessment activities.
If there is anything that you feel we should know, please speak with your child’s class
teacher as soon as possible. Alternatively, you may telephone or make an
appointment to speak with Mrs Joanne Palmer, our Special Education Needs
Coordinator (SENCO) or email her at [email protected]
“Challenging targets are set and all learners, including those with learning difficulties
and those who are gifted and talented, make excellent progress in all subjects.
Their knowledge, skills and understanding are of consistently high standards.”
Ofsted
Transitions
From Nursery to Reception
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Most new entrants will already be members of the nursery class. In June the children
spend half a day in the Reception Class. This gives them a chance to meet class
mates and teachers and the opportunity to explore their classroom. A ‘Reception
Welcome Meeting’ with the Reception teacher and the Headteacher provides an
opportunity for parents to learn about the organisation of the school and ask any
questions they might have.
We introduce our new children to full time school over the first week of term in
September. During this week we split the class into a morning group and an
afternoon group to help the children with the transition into full time schooling.
We find this is the best way to get them settled into school life whilst also giving the
teachers valuable time to get to know your children and assess their strengths and
development needs. With so many new routines, people, experiences and
challenges, the first week can be quite tiring for young children. It is for these
reasons that we insist on this graduated start. We want the children to be happy
and enjoy their new class.
For the first week, the children attending the morning session come from 9.00am until
1.00pm and the children attending the afternoon session come to school from
11.45am until 3.15pm. Both groups will have lunch at school, giving them the
opportunity to experience the lunch time arrangements. Please note that your child
is entitled to a universal infant free school meal (UNFSM, however, if your child is
having a packed lunch please contact Mrs Raven in the school office.
Finally, at the start of the second week all the children attending Reception class will
come on a full time basis. Full details of the sessions children will attend are
communicated to parents during the summer term prior to their start in September.
Towards the end of the year, when the children are ready to move from Reception
to Year 1, the classes work very closely together to prepare the children for this
move.
From Year 6 to Secondary School: Links with Cockermouth and Keswick School.
We are a feeder school to both Cockermouth, Keswick School and Queen Elizabeth
Grammar School. Throughout the year we work very closely with both Cockermouth
School and Keswick School. These links ensure that the transfer to secondary school
is as smooth as possible.
The Year 7 tutors from both Cockermouth and Keswick Schools visit the year 6 children
to talk to them about the school.
The children then spend 2 days at the school with all the other new starters. Parents
are also invited to visit the secondary schools and meet the teaching staff.
Uniform & School Clothing
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At Paddle Academy we expect that all children will arrive at school neat and tidy
and wearing suitable clothing.
Our compulsory uniform consists of:
a royal blue sweatshirt or cardigan
a white shirt, blouse or polo-shirt, or a royal blue polo-shirt
black or grey trousers, skirt or pinafore,
black shoes or trainers,
white, grey or black socks or tights,
during good weather all children may wear grey or black shorts or skorts,
during good weather girls may wear a blue checked dress.
Children will also require a School Book Bag that they should bring to school each
day.
Our compulsory PE kit consists of:
a pair of black shorts
a T-shirt in your child’s team colour
a pair of trainers/plimsoles
a track suit or jogging bottoms may be useful in the winter months
The PE Kit should be kept in a drawstring PE Bag in your child’s locker or on their peg,
and will be sent home at the end of each half term to be laundered. Please
contact your child’s class teacher if you are unsure which Team your child is in.
Siblings will be in the same team colour.
Parents should mark individual items of clothing with their child's name. This means
that any lost property can be quickly identified.
Suppliers
Parents are welcome to use any major retail uniform provider of their choice.
Mapac can supply items embroidered with the school badge. Macpac orders can
be placed online at www.mapac.com or by telephone on 01923 255525. Mapac
aim to fulfil orders within 10 working days.
Other items of non-compulsory uniform are also available to order at parent’s
discretion.
Jewellery
Children are not permitted to wear any jewellery to school apart from a watch. If
children have their ears pierced they should wear small studs. For sports and PE
Earrings should be removed or covered and hair should be tied back.
DISCLAIMER
The information supplied in this document is in accordance with information at
present available to the Governors and is believed to be correct as at the date of
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printing. In particular, nothing herein prejudices the right of the Secretary of State, or
the Governors, or the Head of the School to make any decision relating to the
school as it sees fit without regard to whether this will affect the accuracy of any
matters contained in this publication.
Further, neither the Governors, nor the school, nor the Department of Education and
Employment, nor any member of the Authority of the school is deemed responsible
for any erroneous information in this document.