Framlingham Sir Robert Hitcham's

Church of England

Voluntary Aided Primary School

College Road, Framlingham, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP13 9EP

Tel: 01728 723354 Fax: 01728 724834

E-mail: admin@hitchams.suffolk.sch.uk Web: www.roberthitchams.ik.org

Learning Caring Inspiring

SCHOOL BROCHURE

2014 / 2015

PAGE WELCOME 2

MISSION STATEMENT 3

AIMS OF THE SCHOOL 3

ACADEMIC YEAR 4

THE GOVERNORS 4

SCHOOL EVENTS 4

THE STAFF 5

CURRICULUM LEADERS 6

SCHOOL COUNCIL 6

HOUSE TEAMS 6

CLASS STRUCTURE 7

PROGRESS 7

CURRICULUM 8 - 13

HOMEWORK 13

SEN 13

EXTRA CURRICULA 14

PHOTOGRAPHS 15

EDUCATIONAL VISITS 15

SAFEGUARDING CHILDREN 15

CHARGING AND REMISSIONS 16

SCHOOL TIMES 16

PARKING & TRANSPORT 16

ATTENDANCE 17

ADMISSION ARRANGEMENTS 17

NURSERY 18

PREPARATION FOR SCHOOL 18

PARENT PARTICIPATION 18

SCHOOL CLOTHING 19

SCHOOL MEALS 20

SNACKS 20

ALLERGIES 20

GENERAL HEALTH 21

TRANSFER TO HIGH SCHOOL 21

COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE 21

KS1 Standard Attainment Tests 22

KS2 Standard Attainment Tests 23

FRIENDS OF THE SCHOOL 24

WELCOME TO OUR SCHOOL

It is my very great pleasure to welcome you to our school. We aim to provide a friendly, caring and stimulat-ing environment where children are nurtured as individuals, giving them opportunities to achieve success and develop their full potential. We believe that all our children should be able to go into the world secure in those values that are at the heart of our Christian family school. Our school has a wonderfully committed and ex-perienced staff who are very well supported by parents, Governors and the local community. This brochure is designed to give you a glimpse of the range of opportunities available at the school as well as an insight into the things we consider important in the education of our children. It is also packed with information that parents/carers need to know, thus enhancing the partnership be-tween school and home which is so important for the development of our children. We would be delighted if you would like to come along to meet us in person and have a look around the school. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you should have any queries. Mrs H Picton Headteacher

Page 3

Autumn Term 2013 Total Number of Pupils: 319

Framlingham Sir Robert Hitcham’s CEVAP School believes in... Our Christian family ethos which encompasses all aspects of school life where

every individual is respected. The Christian values of love, hope, faith and commitment, forgiveness and reconciliation,

truth, acceptance, relationships and respect, peace and responsibility. The uniqueness of the child who is deserving of the highest academic

and behaviour standards.

Giving children access to a broad, balanced and enriched curriculum which promotes challenge and enables everyone to make a positive contribution to their

own achievement. All school staff, governors and parents working in partnership so that all children may

achieve their full potential as independent life-long learners.

Providing a happy environment that is caring nurturing and supportive for all those who are a part of our school.

Fostering strong links with our community and encouraging our children to become good stewards of our world.

Encouraging initiative within a happy, healthy and safe environment where all achievement is valued and celebrated.

School Events

Autumn Term

Harvest Festival

Parent Consultations

Pupil Photos

Christmas Celebrations

Carol Concert

Christmas Disco

Christmas Lunch

Spring Term

Mid Year Progress Reports

Easter Service

Summer Term

SATS Y2-Y6

Walk to School Week

Class Photos

Activity Week

Sports Day

Summer Outings

Year 6 Camp

Meet Next Year’s Teacher

End of Year Reports

Copies of the latest

DIARY DATES leaflet

can be found on the BLOG

or at the office.

THE GOVERNORS

Mrs H Picton Ex Officio - Headteacher Mrs C Hopkins Elected Teacher Governor Mr D Mulrenan Elected Support Staff Governor Mrs C Hill Elected Parent Governor Mr R Owen Elected Parent Governor Mr M Hoare Foundation Governor Mrs J Ward Foundation Governor Mrs R Pickup Foundation Governor Mr P Lamb Foundation Governor Ex Officio Revd M Vipond Foundation Governor Mrs R Mawson Foundation Governor Mrs A Rowles Foundation Governor Mrs J Clarke Foundation Governor Mrs A Taylor Local Authority Governor Mrs J Colchester Associate Member Mr I Moore Associate Member

AUTUMN TERM 3 September 2014 – Non Pupil Day 4 September 2014 – Start of Term Half Term w/c 27 October 2014 19 December 2014 – End of Term Autumn Non Pupil Day TBC SPRING TERM 5 January 2015– Non Pupil Day 6 January 2015 – Start of Term Half Term w/c 16 February 2015

27 March 2015– End of Term Spring Non Pupil Day TBC SUMMER TERM 14 April 2015 – Start of Term Bank Holiday Monday 5 May 2015 Half Term w/c 25 May 2015 22 July 2015 – End of Term Summer Non Pupil

ACADEMIC YEAR 2014 / 2015

Harvest Festival at

St Michael’s Church

Choir performing in

Assembly

Mrs H Picton Headteacher Mrs J Colchester Deputy Headteacher / Teacher Mr R Vaughan Teacher / Key Stage 2 Co-ordinator Mrs L Cann Teacher / Key Stage 1 Co-ordinator Mrs C Hopkins Teacher / Foundation Co-ordinator Mrs P Akerman (Part-time) Teacher / SENCO Miss C Ashberry Teacher Mrs S Beddow (Part-time) Teacher Mrs J Bell (Part-time) Teacher Mr D Brook Teacher Mrs D Dwyer (Part-time) Teacher Mrs P Lord (Part-time) Teacher Mrs K Mawson Teacher Miss E Montague Teacher Mrs N Spencer Teacher Mrs K Venton Teacher Mrs C Cooper Nursery Teacher Mrs C Miller Office Manager Mrs L Hulley Finance and Premises Manager Miss H Simpson Administrator Mrs D Reeve Administrator (School Dinners) Mrs S Eyles Nursery Nurse / Higher Level Teaching Assistant Mrs W Borg Higher Level TA / Senior Midday Supervisor Mrs A Doy Teaching Assistant Ms J Dineen Teaching Assistant / Midday Supervisor Mrs K Free Teaching Assistant Mrs Z Harold Teaching Assistant Mrs E Jenkins Teaching Assistant / Midday Supervisor Miss C Lamb Teaching Assistant Mrs M Monk Teaching Assistant Mr D Mulrenan Teaching Assistant / Cover Supervisor Mrs J Turner Teaching Assistant / Higher Level Teaching Assistant Mrs D Waddell Teaching Assistant Mr N Bennett Caretaker / Cleaner in Charge Mrs M Chapman Cook in Charge Mrs L Aldred School Canteen Mrs M Dunham Midday Supervisor Mrs T Freeman Midday Supervisor Mrs S Goodwin Midday Supervisor Mrs R Hills Midday Supervisor Miss M Kent Midday Supervisor Mrs J Perkins Midday Supervisor Mrs Y Russell Midday Supervisor Mrs A Scott Midday Supervisor Mrs S Wright Midday Supervisor & School Crossing Patrol

STAFF LIST Page 5

Age Year Group Key Stage 3 - 4 Nursery Foundation 4 - 5 R (Reception) Foundation 5 - 6 Y1 KS1 6 - 7 Y2 KS1 7 - 8 Y3 KS2 - lower 8 - 9 Y4 KS2 - lower 9 - 10 Y5 KS2 - upper 10 - 11 Y6 KS2 - upper

The School is divided into Foundation (Nursery and Reception) co-ordinated by Mrs Hopkins; Keystage 1 (5-7 years) co-ordinated by Mrs Cann and Keystage 2 (7-11 years) co-ordinated by Mr Vaughan. When children enter the school they are in their Reception year. From the next September they become Year 1 and the following September Year 2 etc, reaching Year 6 in their final year. Depending on the numbers in each year group the classes may span two age groups. The initials of the teacher are used as an abbreviation for the class name, eg the class taught by Mrs J Colchester is known as ‗JC‘. Within each class children are grouped for Numeracy according to ability, and work in a variety of ways appropriate to their age and stage of development. These sets are not necessarily taught by the class teacher.

CLASS STRUCTURE

House Cup winners on Sports Day

HOUSE TEAMS & EFFORT POINTS

Key Stage 2 children are placed into a ‗House‘ and friendly contests between these are held across a range of sporting and cultural activities.

BULSTRODE (Blue) HOWARDHOWARD (Yellow)(Yellow) HITCHAM (Red) MILLS (Green) This school operates an ‗Effort Point‘ system where points are awarded in the Key Stage 2 age-group for any positive effort, good work, helpful attitude etc. These are awarded by class teachers and are allocated to the rele-vant ‗House‘ of the child. Points are collected at the end of each week and the winner of the House Cup is an-nounced in assembly.

„We appreciate any parents

who can spare an hour or two to help around the school in a wide variety

of tasks‟

Library Mrs Dwyer Maths Mrs Cann Music Mrs Mawson / Miss Ashberry Outdoor Education Mrs Hopkins PE Mrs Spencer PHSE Mrs Akerman RE Mrs Colchester Science Miss Ashberry SEN Mrs Akerman Worship Mrs Colchester

Art & DT Mrs Dwyer Assessment Mr Brook EAL Mrs Akerman English Mr Vaughan Foreign Language Miss Montague Geography Mrs Venton Gifted & Talented Mrs Mawson History Mrs Lord ICT Mr Brook LAC Mrs Lord

CURRICULUM CO-ORDINATORS

SCHOOL COUNCIL

The school council plays an important part in the running of our school. Pupils get the chance to put forward their views on a whole range of things that are an integral part of the day to day school life. They have been involved in the refurbishment of toilets, formulation of playground behaviour agree-ments, assemblies, organising the library, choosing charities to support and liaising with local councillors on community issues. It is an ideal opportunity to introduce pupils from Reception to Year 6 to the idea that they can make a difference and a very positive one. Pupils from each class are elected and there are regular minuted meetings. Each rep-resentative is expected to expand on the ideas dis-cussed in meetings and they have tasks to com-plete so that ideas are discussed and shared.

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Please remember you are welcome to discuss your child’s progress, or any concerns, by appointment with the class teacher, head of Key stage or the Headteacher.

DO NOT HESITATE to contact us so that a mutually convenient time can be arranged.

During the year, parents/ carers are invited to consultation meetings to discuss pupil targets, also they are invited in to see their child‘s work. A detailed written report is given at the end of the school year, addi-tionally we provide a ‗Progress Report‘ in the Autumn and Spring Term. At the end of Years 2 and 6 each child will be more formally assessed through Na-tional tests called the Standard Attainment Tasks (SATs). Details of these are sent out as part of the end of year reports.

PROGRESS

Diamond Jubilee Celebrations

School Council

ECO COUNCIL

The Eco-Council is represented by pupils from all classes in Y1-Y6. Their responsibility is to look after the outside areas; aim to cut down on the electricity we use in school; pick rubbish; recycle paper; look after the birds; and plant trees. In general they aim to make the school more eco-friendly.

„The value of English in the curriculum? What can I say? Without Eng-lish nothing. And without good English, nothing very well.‟ Anne Fine, author. English is the cornerstone of the whole curriculum and we aim to develop the ability to communicate effectively in speech and writing and to listen with understanding. We aim to make our pupils enthusiastic, fluent and responsive readers who can learn and gain pleasure from the written word. The main reading schemes used are Phonics Bug, Oxford Reading Tree and Ginn 360. We teach reading using a variety of strategies but in the early stages the phonic approach is the method of choice. We also place emphasis on the importance of understanding and responding to reading and therefore comprehension skills are taught throughout the school. Using the National Literacy Framework as a basis, the pupils in our school are given a wide variety of opportunities to develop their writing styles, both narrative and non narrative. Many of the skills are taught us-ing good quality texts and books as examples. We feel that the correct use of English grammar, spelling, punctuation and the use of a wide vo-cabulary are very important and aim to equip our pupils with the tools needed. Our pupils are given many opportunities to use drama as a means of expression and are taken to the theatre to view professionally produced performances when appropriate. Year 5 and 6 pupils deliver a bi-annual production in a professional theatre to hundreds of parents. We encourage parents to take an active role in their child‘s development through listening to their child read, talking to them about homework tasks and helping them to learn their spellings.

Science is taught on the basis of two-year cycles. In KS1 aspects of the curriculum covered include: Ourselves, Light and Dark, Plants and Ani-mals, Materials, Forces and Electricity which are delivered through a cross-curricular theme. In KS2 areas covered include Teeth and Eat-ing, Rocks & Soils, Light, Habitats, Keeping Healthy, Circuits and Con-ductors and much more. A range of resources, productions and hands-on experiences are used, as well as a variety of approaches to develop experimental and investigative skills, and the use of the correct lan-guage. In Year 5 and 6 children will also be introduced to aspects of Sex Education as part of their Science Curriculum.

English

Science

Mathematics

tion to match ability. In Key Stage 2, children are taught in Sets to match their experience and ability. Parents and guardians who wish to encourage their chil-dren to develop their Numeracy skills should help them to practise number bonds and times tables, depending on their age, and should play games with them which involve numbers or shapes.

We work to the National Numeracy Strategy, which places a much greater emphasis on mental calcu-lation in all of our mathematics les-sons. As more materials are pro-duced to support the latest govern-ment initiative, they will gradually be implemented throughout the school. All pupils in Key Stage 1 are taught in groups, with differentia-

Page 8

Parents/guardians can help their child through listening to

their child read, talking to them

about homework tasks and helping them to learn their

spellings

NATIONAL CURRICULUM CORE SUBJECTS

Maths Games

Science project

In the Foundation Stage children learn about change and chro-nology through stories and role-play. Topics are adapted de-pending on the children‘s interests and development of skills. Key Stage 1 find out about the history of the home, comparing life 150 years ago with the present. They use artefacts and costumes to enhance learning. The children study famous people from the past, such as Florence Nightingale and Amy Johnsons, as well as the history of transport and toys. Topics covered in Key Stage 2 include the civilizations of An-cient Egypt, Greece and Rome. In British history the children study the Tudor and Victorian eras and also find out about life during the Second World War. Lo-cal history involves discovering how Framlingham Castle has changed over time. Visitors, and educational trips to local historical sites, make the children‘s learning more relevant and real.

Design technology helps children to be-come problem solvers through practical tasks, using creativity and imagination. They will work with a variety of materials and learn many new practical skills. Chil-dren discuss other people‘s designs; inves-tigating how they work and who they are aimed at. They design, make and evaluate a range of products from fruit kebabs to glove puppets, making bread to photo frames.

History

Design Technology

Geography

learn through practical experiences, a variety of resources and educational visits. At Key Stage 2 there is a 4 year cycle of topics. Dur-ing each year the pupils acquire skills and knowledge by learning about a particular re-gion such as Africa, the Tropics, Polar Re-gions and Europe. Throughout this cycle they will continually compare with a local area, such as Framlingham, Suffolk, East Anglia and the UK. The resources used include maps, plans, atlases, globes, photographs, media and field trips.

This subject incorporates the world we live in and our place in that world. During the Foun-dation Stage pupils begin to develop geo-graphical skills, they learn about the immedi-ate locality and other regions around the world using a cross-curricular approach and are pro-vided with a variety of practical learning ex-periences using both the indoor and outdoor classrooms. At Key Stage 1 children develop their geographical skills by learning about Framlingham and a contrasting locality, such as Felixstowe and Chembokali in India. They

Making Quiche in Year 6 DT

OTHER NATIONAL CURRICULUM SUBJECTS KS2 History Project on the Tudors

Children are taught through the six areas of experience; Drawing, Painting, Printmaking, Collage, Textiles and 3D work. Through these they explore and learn to use a wide range of materials, tools and tech-niques. Pupils gain understanding and knowledge of colour, shape, space, tone, form, texture and pattern and they use these elements to represent and communicate what they see, feel and think. Through learning about the work of a variety of artists from a range of cultures, the children develop enjoyment and appreciation of the visual arts and a knowledge of artists, craftspeople and designers. They use this learn-ing to inspire and enrich their own artwork. Children have opportunites to participate in local art competitions and art projects, as well as a KS2

after school Art club.

Art and Craft

Page 10

Art Project Van Gogh artwork

Elizabeth I

and achievements. We have very close links with St Michael‘s Church and hold several different ser-vices there throughout the year, such as Harvest, Easter, Mother‘s Day, Christ-mas Carol Service and the Year 6 Leavers Service. Also members of the local community help to run an after school Christian Club—Hitcham‘s Holy Horrors.

Parents/guardians have the right to withdraw their child from assemblies and Religious Education if they

so wish.

Each day our children ex-perience an act of worship in accordance with the Law. We feel that worship is an important part of our school life, especially as we are a Church of England Voluntary Aided School. Worship starts our week and we close with our celebration of achievement assembly. Throughout the week staff and clergy, or leaders from local churches lead our wor-ship. On Fridays, each class has the opportunity to share with parents and the rest of the school aspects of their work

School Worship

Religious Education

The school is a Church of England Voluntary Aided School and it follows the agreed syllabus of Religious Education. In RE children learn what meaning religious faith has in the lives of people and how they give witness to that faith. Christianity is studied in depth and aspects of the other major world faiths are studied alongside it.

“Once a week

we hold an

assembly to

celebrate

children‟s

achievements“

The school has a large number of multimedia PCs and laptops, together with two dedicated Com-puter Suites. Each PC has been tailor-made and configured for speed and reliability, and is con-nected to a vast library of software and virtual CD/DVDs via a 1 gigabit network and wireless ac-cess points. A large amount of the software has been edited for ease of use, with consideration given to the age of the user. In a rapidly developing technological world we aim to familiarise chil-dren with the use of this equipment. The software they use will enhance their work, enabling them to communicate and handle information, and to learn to control events, monitor external events and to use IT-based models and simulations. We have Internet access which is supervised, in con-junction with four graduated stages of security to pro-tect the children. Every classroom has an interactive white board, flexi cam and camera to assist traditional teaching methods. We are also well equipped with a range of electronic toys. The school has a vigorous upgrade, maintenance and servicing programme to keep up-to-date with advances in new technology.

Information and Communication Technology Page 11

Class music lessons include singing, listening to music, appraising, composing and perform-ing. Children have many opportunities to create music using the school's large collection of per-cussions instruments and keyboards, as well as several pieces of music software in the ICT suite. Teachers often make use of their own musical interests or expertise in their lessons. A school choir is sometimes formed for special occasions and there is a Singing Club as well as a

school orchestra. For those children wishing to learn an instrument, brass, wind, guitar and strings are provided in school, at a charge, and pupils are also welcome to join a lunchtime beginners‘ recorder group. Some year groups may benefit from the County Music Service ‗Wider Opportunities Scheme‘ where children have a wind/brass instrument for a year and take part in weekly class tuition. In addition, a Saturday morning Music School is held at Thomas Mills High School, giving children the opportunity to learn stringed instruments or to develop their singing skills. This ser-vice run is by Northgate Arts Centre. For information ring 01473 281 866

Music

“..children are

given the

opportunity to

develop the skills

and understanding

they need to

become integrated

members of

society.”

Using new notebooks

swimming pool at Framlingham College during the school year. Competitive team matches of net-ball, football, rounders, new-era rugby and kwik-cricket are encour-aged. The older children often participate in these inter-house and also host teams from other local schools. As part of the Suffolk Sports Part-nership year groups take part in tournaments with other schools.

Throughout the school, work in this subject involves children exploring and extending their abilities in a range of activities such as games, outdoor activities, movement to music and dance. Sports facilities are provided by two hard-surface play areas, a playing field and the school hall which is used for a vari-ety of games and sports training from gymnastics to maypole danc-ing. Children are given tuition in the

Physical Education Page 12

The personal, social and emotional aspect of learning is an important part of the school cur-riculum. Through the teaching of planned units of work, assemblies, participation in School Council, lunchtime clubs, paired reading, sport and other co-operative activities, children are given the opportunity to develop the skills and understanding they need to become integrated members of society. The school encourages pupils to play a positive role in contributing to the life of the wider com-munity of Framlingham and the surrounding rural area. Through citizenship, knowledge and understanding of social structures and services such as the police, fire, health, local and na-tional government is taught. Health education includes eating a balanced diet, dental care, keeping safe (eg Road Safety

training), personal hygiene and the responsible use of medicines. Throughout their time at school children are in-troduced to growth and change both in science and PSHE. They are taught about plant and human life cycles and how their own bodies change as they grow older. This part of the PSHE curriculum reaches a logical conclusion in upper Key Stage 2 when the changes that take place with the onset of puberty are intro-duced together with conception and birth. This aspect of PSHE is approached in the same sensitive way as any other and particular care is taken to give boys and girls a chance to talk to an adult in separate groups. One part of this teaching unit takes the form of a video, which can be viewed by parents beforehand. Parents do have the right to withdraw their child from this, if they so wish.

Personal Social and Health Education

Special Educational Needs

of any outcomes. Following advice from the appropriate professional, additional or different provision may be put in place and the child will be placed on School Action Plus. For a fuller description of SEN provision at Sir Robert Hitcham‘s the SEN policy is available for parents to read.

Children are defined as having special educa-tional needs if they have learning or physical needs significantly different to the majority of children of the same age. They will be given provision over and above that provided for by normal classroom differentiation or facilities dif-ferent from those generally provided for children of the same age. The school aims to identify each child‘s individ-ual needs as early as possible and, through In-dividual Education Plans, to involve parents at every stage of the three main levels of support. In addition to classroom differentiation, we pro-vide small group work and individual one to one intervention. There are also children who have a Statement of SEN who have support through-out the school day as appropriate. Once a term the SENCO meets with the County Children and Young People Advisor for SEN to discuss children who may then have further as-sessments by Educational Psychologist or other professional body. Parents are asked to sign a consent form if their child needs to be seen by an outside agency and are kept fully informed

French Page 13

HOMEWORK

Throughout the school, children are encouraged to bring in and share things from home relevant to their work in the classroom. Homework starts with the taking home of reading books for children to read at home to or with an adult and progresses through to learning spellings and tables on a more regular basis, with literacy and numeracy homework in KS2. In their final year in school a more structured programme of work is organised in preparation for the transition to Secondary School. Please refer to the Homework Policy, available from the Office.

French is taught from Years 3 to 6 . It offers children the opportunity to under-stand and communicate in a different language, develop linguistic skills and to use their deepening knowledge to un-derstand what they hear and read. The way French is taught ensures that every child has the opportunity to learn and achieve in their language learning. They make progress in the four main areas of oracy, intercultural understand-ing, knowledge about the language and language learning skills.

Gifted & Talented

At Sir Robert Hitcham‘s we believe all children are or have the potential to be gifted and tal-ented. Therefore, we aim to provide a broad and balanced curriculum, appropriate to the needs and abilities of all our children, but with this ethos in mind. We plan teaching to enable every child to reach the highest level of personal achievement and this includes children identified as ―able‖, ―gifted‖ and ―talented‖ according to national guidelines. Each term the G&T co-ordinator meets with all members of staff to identify children who may relish an extra chal-lenge appropriate to their needs and interests.

Starting school for the first time can cause great excitement for both children and par-ents/guardians. Below are some ideas to help prepare your child for school: - Attending the 2 induction sessions in the term before your child is due to start. - Talk to your child about going to school. - There are some excellent story books about this subject. - Take them past the school at different times of the day so they can see what is going on. - Come to any fund-raising activity e.g. the Christmas School Fair, Summer Fete etc - Encourage your child to become as inde-pendent as possible, e.g. when dressing.

NURSERY Page 14

Children may have up to five terms of free part-time early learning before they join the Recep-tion class. The Nursery aims to create an envi-ronment where children can have a variety of experiences, particularly through play. Through this we can develop their knowledge and understanding of the world around them and give them a sound foundation on which the curriculum will be built. Our Nursery can take children from the begin-ning of the term following their 3rd birthday. Each term we may only have a few places spare and these will be offered in accordance

with the Local Authority Admissions Policy (Please refer to Admissions to Schools in Suf-folk booklet, from the Office) The Nursery hours are 8.50am to 11.50am Monday to Friday. Spaces are limited and early application is advised (usually when your child is 2 years old). In addition we have a chargeable lunch club that runs until 1.30pm. Nursery children may have a school dinner or bring a packed lunch to eat in the hall, they then play in the Founda-tion playground - all fully supervised. Booking forms are sent out by the Office.

PREPARATION FOR SCHOOL

FOUNDATION CURRICULUM

Reception children planting seeds

There are 7 areas of the Foundation Curriculum, which are made up of 3 Prime Areas: Personal, Social & Emotional Development; Physical Development and Communication & Language, and 4 Specific Areas: Literacy; Mathematics; Understanding of the World and Expressive & Creative Design. The children access a cross-curricular curriculum through ac-tive learning. There is a mixture of adult-focussed and child-initiated activities to enhance the children's learning which they can access in both inside and outside environments.

These run either during lunchtime or after school, at present we offer the following activities: Football in season Netball in season Rugby in season Hockey in season Cricket in season Computer Club Singing Club Maypole (Summer) Chess Club

Holy Horrors (Christian Club)

Board Games Club K‘nex Club Make & Do Recorders Gardening Club Art Club Cycle Training

(chargeable) Wind & Brass

(chargeable) Guitar (chargeable)

Violin (chargeable)

Orchestra (chargeable)

Tennis (chargeable)

French (chargeable)

Page 15

EXTRA CURRICULA ACTIVITIES

This school believes that a partnership between parents/carers and the school is of great benefit to the children. The ‘Friends’ of the School offers one way of becoming involved (please see back page), but there are plenty of other opportunities. We appreciate any parents, or indeed grandpar-ents, who can volunteer to help around the school in a wide variety of tasks. These tasks may be hearing reading, art and craft, sewing, cooking, recorder lessons, cycle proficiency or even helping our younger children when they get changed for swimming. We are always pleased to hear from anyone who can offer even a little help. Letters about school activities keep parents/guardians informed, these are sent via e-mail or hard copies are sent with the children (if parent‘s have not signed up for email). They are also posted on the school ‗Blog‘. All volunteers are DBS checked, which is arranged through the school office. We have in place a Parent Council, which is made up of parents who put themselves forward to represent their child‘s class, they are involved in half-termly meetings with the Headteacher and Governors where important communications between the school and parents are discussed.

PARENT PARTICIPATION

Twice a year a professional photographer comes to the school. In the Autumn Term a single por-trait of each child is taken and at this time family groups can be photographed at parent‘s re-quest, including younger siblings not at this school. In the Summer Term class photographs are taken. In addition, every four years we have a full school panoramic photo taken. Parents may pur-chase copies of these photographs, commission goes to the school. There may be times when children are photo-graphed as part of normal school activity. The pho-tographs may be included on the school Website, BLOG or published in a local newspaper. When pu-pils start with the school parents will be requested to

complete a permission slip for this. Any parent not wishing their child's photo to be included can make this known on the slip.

PHOTOGRAPHS

EDUCATIONAL VISITS

Throughout the year, whole or part-day visits are made to places of interest as part of normal school work eg Theatre, Ballet or Opera, Galleries, Museums, Farm Shows, Wildlife parks and more. Visits into Framlingham and our surrounding villages are an important aspect of school life. In addition we have frequent visits from outside performing arts com-panies including Theatre, Puppetry and Music for the entertainment and education of the children.

Whitwell Camp

Page 16

SAFEGUARDING CHILDREN

If there are concerns about a child‘s welfare, it may be appropriate to request the help of the Education Welfare Officer or Social Services.

We have a legal duty to assist other agencies with child protection enquiries Please enquire at the office for our Safeguarding Children policy and information leaflet.

What little bullying we experience in school is dealt with sensitively and quickly. Our Anti-Bullying policy is available from the school office.

YEAR 6 CAMP

In the final half-term of their attendance at the school Year 6 pupils spend a week at Whitwell in Norfolk at a County Approved Campsite. Over the years we have found this provides the children with a memorable as well as an educational experience which stands them in good stead before they move on to Secon-dary School.

London Trip Year 6

Olympic Torch Parade

CARS There is no parking on site (only limited places for staff). Please do not stop outside the school as there is no safe place for children to alight. The Elms public car park at the rear of the school has plenty of space and this is by far the safest place to park. It is recommended that young children are escorted into school as the traffic on New Road, although light, often moves quite fast. There is a crossing patrol on College Road.

BICYCLES There are facilities for leaving bicycles in the school grounds but the Headteacher must be consulted before children cycle to school. Chil-dren who cycle should have passed, or be taking, their cycling profi-ciency course, otherwise they should be accompanied by an adult cy-clist.

BUSES There are 3 buses that transport children to and from catchment villages, to find out more, and see if your child is eligible for free transport, con-tact the School Transport team on 08456 066 067.

Our School Travel Plan promotes walking and cycling to school as the most sustainable and healthy ways to travel.

Page 17

Road Safety Day

‘Be Bright Be Seen’

The Governing Body recognises the valuable contribution that a wide range of additional activi-ties make towards pupils‘ personal and social education. The Governing Body have drawn up a charging policy and no charge will be made for activities which take place in school time, apart from musical instrument tuition for individuals or pupils in small groups. However, par-ents will be invited to make voluntary contributions towards any part of the school‘s work. The Governors reserve the right to charge all pupils for activities that are provided wholly or mainly outside school hours where the activities are optional extras. They also reserve the right to charge for the board and lodging on residential courses. According to the Governors‘ Policy of Charges and Remissions for School Activities parents who are in receipt of: (a) Income Support; (b) Income Based Job Seekers Allowance; (c) Child Tax Credit and do not receive Working Tax Credit and who have an annual taxable income of less than £16,190; (d) Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999; or (e) a guaranteed element of State Pension Credit do not need to pay for events. Nor will they be expected to make a voluntary contribution of money unless they wish to do so. However, Gov-ernors reserve the right to cancel any activity which is not financially viable due to insufficient parental contributions.

CHARGING AND REMISSIONS

PARKING AND TRANSPORT

Morning: 8.50am - 12.15pm Lunch: 12.15pm - 1.15pm Afternoon: 1.15pm - 3.05pm Break Times: 10.50am - 11.10am KS1 & KS2 2.15pm - 2.30pm KS1 only Children should not arrive before 8.30am as it is not possible to supervise them before then. Parent/guardians can help by ensuring their children are on time for the start of lessons. Late-ness can distress children if lessons have already begun when they arrive. Parents are re-quested to not enter the classrooms after 8.45am, when the first bell signals the children should be on the playground to be collected by the class teacher. See ‗LATE ARRIVALS‘.

SCHOOL TIMES

We are required by law to keep a record of all unauthorised absences from school and to publish these figures. With security concerns in mind we need to know that a child who is not in school is safe. We would therefore ask you to:

Telephone us before 8.30am, select Option 1 and leave a message stating the name of the child, their class and the reason they are off school.

If you know your child will be off for more than one day – please state the number of days they are likely to be away – you do not then need to call again, unless they are off longer.

If you are not sure when your child will return, you will need to phone each day they are away.

If we have not heard from you by 9.30am we will try to contact you on the numbers you have given us to establish the whereabouts of the child.

Parents need not follow up with a written letter as the absence will be noted in a ‗sickness log‘. If you wish your child to be absent from school for any other reason, such as a family holiday, you must complete an absence form at least 3 weeks in advance. Holidays during term time are NOT a parental right and it is the Headteachers decision whether or not to authorise it. The booklet ‗Attendance - A Guide for Parents‘ or the full Attendance Policy are available from the office. The attendance record of the school is consistently good. From September 2012 to June 2013 the percentage of authorised school absence was 3.7% and the percentage of unauthorised school absence was 0.3%.

ATTENDANCE

Please see the Admissions Policy,

ADMISSION ARRANGEMENTS

LATE ARRIVALS

Registers close at 9.05am. Pupils who arrive after 8.50am must be signed in by an adult at the office. They will be marked ‗Late- authorised‘ on the Register. If they arrive after 9.20am they will be marked ‗Late- Unauthorised‘ on the Register. Afternoon register closes at 1.25pm and arrivals will become unauthorised after 1.25pm

Page 18

PUPILS WITH DISABILITIES

There is adequate provision of facilities to assist access to the school for pupils with disabilities. All admissions are considered equal regardless of ability.

All parents/carers are requested to inform the teacher by letter or in person if the usual go-ing home arrangements are to be altered e.g.

when a bus child is going to be collected by a parent/guardian or your child will be going home

with someone different.

We require written consent if you wish your child to be allowed to walk home alone.

If you are likely to be delayed collecting your child please let us know, as they can get very

upset if you are not there when expected.

END OF SCHOOL COLLECTION

Key Stage 1 Road Safety Training

The School colours are Maroon and Grey

Grey trousers or shorts, skirt or pinafore White shirt, blouse or polo shirt White / Grey socks or Grey / Black tights Maroon sweatshirt / cardigan Red and White small check summer dress

School Sweatshirts embroidered with the

school logo are available to order from the ‗Friends‘ via the school office, as are a number of other uniform items.

Footwear It is requested that children wear shoes which are both comfortable and practical, preferably in black. Sandals are allowed in summer which must have an ankle strap, but no Flip-Flops or Crocs. Any footwear that covers the ankle e.g. boots or trainers should not normally be worn.

P.E.

Key Stage 1: Black shorts, White T-shirt, Black plimsolls. Key Stage 2: Black shorts and House Colour T-shirt, Black plimsolls, KS2 Outdoor games: Tracksuits can be worn in cold weather, Trainers Football boots and shin-guards for Football, Rugby and Hockey Club.

Swimming Swimming trunks or costume, swimming cap, towel and flip-flops, to walk to the poolside. (No bikinis)

DT / Art: We request that children wear a painting shirt to protect

clothing during art and craft lessons. This can be kept at school in the named PE bag.

Jewellery should not be worn. Earrings can cause problems during

PE and Swimming and your child will be asked to remove them before the lesson. Stud earrings are the only type allowed. Children will also be required to remove watches before games lessons.

Swimming Goggles are not allowed for safety reasons, but if a

child is allergic to the pool water we ask that you write to inform us of this.

Sun hats are recommended during the summer months, and also an

application of sun cream to your child's arms, legs, face and neck. (Based on advice from Cancer Research UK)

Long Hair– it is recommended that children tie long hair back in

school, to keep it out of their eyes when working and taking part in PE.

SCHOOL CLOTHING Page 19

Children

should keep all PE

and Swim clothing in

clearly named bags which can be hung

on their hook with their coat.

ALL children’s

clothes and possessions

MUST BE labelled with their name.

Mobile Phones are not allowed

in school. If your child

has one, they must hand it in at the

school office at the beginning

of the day and collect

it at the end.

Expensive or precious

items are to be given to the

class teacher if it is necessary

that they are brought into

school.

School meals cooked on the prem-ises by our experienced cook. They are offered at a price of £2.20 per day, they are healthy, wholesome and popular with the children. They meet or exceed government Food and Nutrition Standards. Menus can be found on a link from the School Website.

If a child is absent later in the week, the money will be automati-cally credited, also if a child has to go home before 10.30am the lunch may be refunded, but after

10.30am preparations would have begun and it is not possible to re-fund the lunch.

Many parents/guardians find it easier to PAY ONLINE via the link on the school website, and the school finds this the most con-venient method of payment. If it is possible to pay for a half-term in advance we would encourage you to do so. Parents can pay by cheque (payable to ‗SCC‘).

If your family gets state benefits you may be entitled to free school meals, please ask at the school office for an application form. This matter is dealt with in the strictest confidence, both in the school of-fice and classroom.

Drinking water is available on the tables but a non-carbonated drink may be brought in with packed lunches in a spill proof plastic con-tainer please.

Packed lunches are eaten in the same hall. Lunch boxes are stored in designated areas near the classrooms, parents may wish to include a small ice block to keep contents cool.

SCHOOL MEALS

All children can bring fruit or vegetables for morning snack time. Dried fruit is allowed (eg. apricots and raisins etc), but NOT with any kind of coating or processed fruit bars. The school is part of the Free Fruit and Vegetable Scheme where Foun-dation and Key Stage 1 children receive a piece of fruit each afternoon.

SNACKS

Page 20

DRINKING WATER

All children are encouraged to bring a clear named bottle of water into

school for them to have on their desk. Keeping hydrated helps the children to concentrate

in class.

Dinner money MUST be paid for the week on MONDAY.

Please put this in an envelope clearly marked with your

Child’s name and class, the amount of money enclosed and the days you wish your child to

have School lunches. If you do not pay on a Monday your child must have packed

lunches for that week.

ONLINE PAYMENTS SHOULD BE MADE BY THE FRIDAY FOR

THE FOLLOWING WEEK

IMPORTANT : NO NUTS / NUT PRODUCTS

are to be brought in for snack or lunch -

we have some children who are severely allergic, and these are

life threatening to them.

If your child has an allergy please discuss this with the teacher.

ALLERGIES

The School has established good links with Thomas Mills High School. These involve high school staff visiting us and working in Year 6 classes; High School staff attending ―In-service Train-ing‖ sessions with our staff and discussing curriculum and pastoral issues; Year 6 children have the opportunity to visit the High School to fa-miliarise themselves with the buildings and to meet form tutors.

To forge links with the other primary schools that feed into the High School, activities are arranged for children from the upper end of Key Stage 2 to meet together so that friend-ships can be fostered.

Parents/guardians are en-couraged to attend introduc-tory meetings organised by Thomas Mills High School at the time of transfer.

TRANSFER TO HIGH SCHOOL

COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE

Despite the best endeavours of everyone at the school occa-sionally incidents arise which cause parents/guardians concern. It is hoped that these will be dealt with quickly, efficiently and as informally as possible. Please refer any complaints or concerns in the first in-stance to the Head teacher or a member of staff. If the matter cannot be dealt with in this manner then the Gov-erning Body has procedures for the consideration of com-plaints. Copies of these procedures can be obtained from the school office or from the Local Education Office.

Page 21 GENERAL HEALTH

In case of illness or accident parents/carers are asked to supply home, mobile and emergency contact numbers It is also necessary to know which doctor your child is registered with. In certain cases of accidental injury an immediate approach to the doctor may be made, though parent/guardians will be contacted as soon as possible.

Please do not send a child who is unwell to school, as germs spread very fast. If a child becomes unwell during the day we shall contact the parent as soon as possible.

The school policy for Medical Needs explains that we do not normally administer medicine. If a child does need medication it is asked that it is administered by a parent/guardian personally. Where children need regular medicine, such as for Asthma, or emergency medication for aller-gies, the school will need to know this information. In KS1 Asthma medication is kept by the class teacher and in KS2 they can be kept by the child or the teacher. Remember, we have a NO NUT policy in school due to children with severe nut allergies.

In an effort to keep the incidents of head lice down, it is the school‘s policy that if live head lice are seen on a child‘s head we ask that the child be removed immediately. Children can be re-turned to school as soon as they have received treatment.

We are a completely No Smoking site, which includes the school field.

Y6 Design Technology day at Thomas Mills High School

Page 22

Number of pupils in Year 2: 44

This summary shows the percentage of pupils attaining each level in English, Mathematics and Science by Teacher Assessment, both in the school and, for comparison,

the National figures.

W = pupils working towards level 1 but who have not yet achieved the standards required for level 1. D = pupils disapplied under Sections 364 or 365 of the 1996 Education Act. A = pupils who were not assessed due to absence. U = pupils who through absence or disapplication were not awarded a subject level. Level 2 is achieved by a typical 7 year old. Level 2 may be further defined by a letter grade ranging from A to C. 2A indicates that the pupil is approaching level 3. All percentage figures are rounded - figures may not total 100% because of rounding. This school‘s statutory task and test assessment results at Key Stage 1 have been audited and verified by Suffolk LEA as reflecting the re-quirements of the National Curriculum.

School 2013 National 2012

Teacher Assessments

W 1 2 2C 2B 2A 3 4 D A/U

W 1 2 2C 2B 2A 3 4 D A/U

Speaking & Listening

2 70 27 2 10 66 22

Reading

2 2 9 27 18 41 2 11 11 23 26 27

Writing

2 5 16 45 14 18 3 14 19 29 21 14

Mathematics

2 9 34 30 25 2 8 14 27 28 22

Science

5 61 34 2 9 68 21

Key Stage 1 2013 Comparative Information

www.roberthitchams.ik.org

The Blog is a great way to find out about latest events happening at school; Spe-cial projects in class; Sporting tournaments; School Letters; Friends Events ...and much, much more.

www.education.gov.uk/schools Advice and information for parents, including government education news and publications.

www.suffolk.gov.uk/education-and-careers/schools For information on applying for school places, term dates, advice for parents, and support services.

http://www.ofsted.gov.uk/inspection-reports For access to our previous Ofsted inspection reports (last one March 2013)

Page 23

Number of pupils in Year 6: 48

This summary shows the percentage of pupils attaining each level in English, Mathematics and Science, by Teacher Assessment and Test Result, both in the school and, for comparison,

the National figures.

A = Not assessed due to absence. D = Exempt or disapplied. W = Working towards level 1. B = Working below the level assessed by the test.

School 2013 National 2012

Teacher Assessments

W 1 2 3 4 5 6 D A W 1 2 3 4 5 6 D A

English

2 8 44 40 6 1 1 3 11 49 35 1

Mathematics

2 6 50 35 6 1 1 3 11 45 36 4

Science

2 4 50 44 1 2 11 50 36

National Tests

B 2 3 4 5 6 B 2 3 4 5

Grammar Spelling & Punctuation Test

4 25 27 40 4

Reading Test

4 8 48 38 2 6 7 38 48

Mathematics Test

10 57 27 6 4 11 45 36 3

Key Stage 2 2013 Comparative Information

PUPILS NEXT STEPS The progress and the development of children is our constant concern when they are pupils at this

school, but we acknowledge that education is an on-going process. During the six or seven years that they spend with us, firm foundations for learning

are laid. We proudly watch our pupils move on to their next stage of education to build on those foun-dations and we are interested to see how their pro-gress continues and are pleased to receive reports

of their achievements in the later stages of their development.

Carol Service in St Michael’s Church

USEFUL NAMES AND ADDRESSES

Simon White Director for Children and Young People

Endeavour House 8 Russell Road

Ipswich Suffolk IP1 2BX

Tel: 01473 264563

Northern Area Education Office Adrian House

Alexandra Road Lowestoft

Suffolk NR32 1PL

Parents and Carers of children at Sir Robert Hit-cham‘s all belong to the Friends. The Friends ac-tively support the school both socially and by raising funds towards those added value extras which help make our school so special.

The Friends run a wide variety of events which eve-ryone can participate in: Film Nights, Christmas Shopping Events, Summer Fetes, Children‘s Discos and regular Cake Stalls. The focus is on fun as well as fund raising so everyone can have a great time. The money the Friends raise goes towards various school projects and outings. The annual AGM (held in September) gives parents the opportunity to hear how the money is spent, and for new members to join the committee.

An enthusiastic committee of volunteers from families of the school run the Friends. We are always keen to wel-come new volunteers both to join the committee or sim-ply to support with donations or offers of help at events. Being an active participant in the Friends committee is a rewarding experience, and helps develop great friend-ships and social opportunities; we meet approximately every half term.

If you would like to contribute in any way we would be delighted to hear from you.

Please contact the chairperson, Rupert Durrant at rupert@thedurrants.com

FRIENDS OF THE SCHOOL

The details set out in this brochure relate to the school year indicated on the front cover and are correct for that year as at March 2013.

It should not be assumed that there will be no change affecting the relevant arrangements or some matter particularised before the start of, or during, the school year in question or in relation to subsequent school years. Parents will be advised by letter of significant changes and parents new to the school will also be informed when they visit.

Friends Barn Dance

Playground Cake Stall

‘Playground’ -

Year 2 Artwork