Embed Size (px)
Citation preview
Whitehouse Primary School
Prospectus2017/18
Principal’s ScribbleDear Parent,
1
Thank you for showing an interest in Whitehouse Primary School and Nursery Unit. I hope this prospectus provides you with all the information you require. I believe, however, it is impossible to completely capture a school’s ethos with words alone. We are very happy to show you around the school so you can experience our unique environment first hand.
I believe that children are our most precious gift, and in Whitehouse Primary School we are committed to providing each child with the best possible educational experience.
We recognise that each child is unique in their personality, experiences, talents andabilities, and it is our desire to ensure that we provide a safe, secure and stimulatinglearning environment that focuses on children being enabled to achieve their fullpotential.
As you read through our prospectus, it is my hope, that our determinations to nurturethe pupils in our care is very evident.
Please enjoy learning more about our school though this prospectus. I hope that you will give our school the opportunity to prepare your child for a happy and successful future.
Yours faithfully
F. Bailie
Principal
Introducing Whitehouse Primary School & Nursery Unit
2
Whitehouse Primary School & Nursery Unit is a co-ed school located in Newtownabbey. The school has an enrolment number of 458 (406 Primary Deparment & 52 Nursery Department).
The school promotes a Christian ethos. It welcomes pupils from all denominations, those from other faiths and others with no stated faith. The school has very positive links with St. James’s Primary School & Nursery Unit. We are committed to our Shared Education links and seek to spread its ethos across all we do as well as the wider community. This is enhanced with a long-term involvement in international links across Europe via British Council projects.
We moved into a fantastic new building in August 2011. It offers excellent accommodation that provides a pleasant environment that has enriched pupils’ learning opportunities. The playgrounds and grounds offer an attractive environment for all our children.
The school employs 2 full time nursery teachers, 16 classroom teachers, 2 part-time teachers and a Principal. A team of well trained and motivated classroom assistants enrich the work of the school. The school also enjoys the support of capable office and cleaning staff.
Parents and the local community hold the school in high regard. The Parent Teacher Association is well supported and plays a significant role in the life of the school.
The school also enjoys the support of a committed Board of Governors. They bring a great breadth of knowledge and links with the community. We are fortunate to have a blend of both recently appointed Governors as well as others with many years of involvement with the school.
We believe the community is at our heart, and we strive increasingly to also be at the heart of our community. We work closely with a number of key partners and over the next three years will proactively and strategically extend these partnerships. A few examples of our current partners include: St. James’s Primary School & Nursery Unit, Abbey Community High School, Antrim and Newtownabbey Council and Family Connections/Barnardos.
Governors
The Governing body is made up of nine members representing the Education Authority, our local Church of Ireland, parents and staff. School Governors meet to discuss and consider school organisation and
3
curriculum matters. The Board’s chairperson is Mrs D. Baillie and its Child Protection Governor is Mrs L. Douglas.
Mr Bailie, the school principal, acts as secretary to the Governors. Any communications to the Board of Governors should be forwarded to him via the school office. We welcome and value parental feedback. The Governors will respond to any correspondence as swiftly as possible.
Key Staff
Principal Mr BailieVice Principal/Foundation Stage Leader Miss BlainNursery Leader Mrs SprattKey Stage 1 Leader Mrs WeirSpecial Education Needs Coordinator Ms KennedyDesignated Teacher for Child Protection Mrs Watson
Contacting the School
Telephone: 02890869252
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: http://www.whitehouseps.co.uk
Address: 2 Doagh Road, Newtownabbey Co Antrim BT37 9NZ
Office Staff and Operation:
School Secretary Mrs HuttonAttendance Coordinator Mrs Spratt
ADMISSIONS
4
In selecting children for admission to the school for nursery and Primary 1 places the Board of Governorswill apply the criteria as set down by the school in the Education Authority’s booklet, ‘Enrolment to Primary Schools’, copies of which are available at the school office from late November 2016. The school website also provides useful information to parents on how to enrol in the school on the ‘How to Enrol’ tab at the top of the home page.
School Year 2013/14 20114/15 2015/16Nursery Applications*
71 73 71
Nursery Places Allocated
52 52 52
P.1 Applications* 64 67 65P.1 Places Allocated
60 60 58**
* First choice applications **Primary 1 places were reduced to 58 as the school had reached its maximum enrolment.
This year we will hold our open night on Wednesday 30th November from 6pm to 8pm. This night is designed to help parents whose children will be nursery or/and Primary 1 age in September 2017. We welcome parents to come along with their children to have a look around.
We do not make presentations or give big speeches. Our approach is to allow families to simply take in the school's atmosphere, view the classrooms, see the standard of pupils' work and get to talk to staff in small groups. We also provide senior members of staff who can answer parents' questions about the application process. We think this approach reflects our very friendly family ethos. If you have already made up your mind that you wish to apply for our school we can provide an application form on the evening. Please also bring an original birth certificate for your child/children and two documents that prove your home address. All documents will be returned to you after you have submitted your application.
The deadline for applications is usually in the second week of January. The Education Authority will publish their deadline in November preceding the deadline on the application forms.A number of pieces of valuable advice for the application process are as follows:• Make sure you read the criteria of the school very carefully before writing your application;• The school is only able to use the information on the form;• Get your application in on time!
Primary 2 to Primary 7 places
If you wish to apply for a place in Primary 2 to 7 please submit a letter or call the office to receive an application form. We are also willing to answer phone inquiries and provide parents with helpful guidance.
If there is a space available and there are no other children on the waiting list the Principal may admit the a pupil. If there are no places available the child’s name will be added to a waiting list if the parents wished to be considered for a future place that may become available. If a place becomes available the Principal will apply the school’s entry criteria as published on the E.A. website. If, however, he deems it necessary a sub-committee of the Board of Governors may be called to make the decision. The decision will be based on the child’s status at the time of the space becomes available.
5
Whitehouse Nursery Unit Entry Criteria for 2017/18
Children will be admitted according to the following statutory criteria:Children who are resident in Northern Ireland at the time of their proposed admission to the school;1. Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances* in their final pre-school year i.e. born between 2nd July 2013 and
1st July 2014 (inclusive);2. Children not falling within sub-paragraph (1) in their final pre-school year; and who at the time of their proposed admission
will not have a pre-school education place, whether full-time or part-time, at another school or any other premises.* “Children from socially disadvantaged circumstances” means a child whose parent is in receipt of Income Support or
Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance: or an award of Income Support which has been converted into an Employment and Support Allowance and the level of benefit remains the same. When parents apply for places for their child on this basis they should have their application form stamped by the Social Security Agency to confirm that they are in receipt of a qualifying payment.
In the event of oversubscription on the application of a statutory criterion the sub-criteria will be applied in the order set down. Sub-criteriaa. Children whose parents cite Whitehouse P.S. Nursery Unit as their first preference setting. (Second preferences will be
selected before third or subsequent preferences etc.)b. Children who have a sibling (half sibling, step sibling, foster sibling) attending Whitehouse Primary School (Primary 1 to
Primary 7) when applications are being processed.c. Children who have a sibling (half sibling, step sibling, foster sibling) attending Whitehouse Primary School Nursery Unit
when the applications are being processed.d. Children with a sibling (half sibling, step sibling, foster sibling) applying for, or been offered, a place in the Primary
Department in September 2017.e. Children of staff members and school Governors.f. Children with a sibling (half sibling, step sibling, foster sibling) who were former pupils of Whitehouse Primary School
(Primary 1 to Primary 7). g. Children who live nearest to the school as decided by a straight line digital measurement using the post code address
of their normal residence to the post code address of Whitehouse Primary School & Nursery Unit. Whitehouse Primary School & Nursery Unit will use the Northern Ireland Portal for Geographical Information (GI) decision making tool, Spatial N.I., to determine distances.
h. In the event of two or more children living the same distance from the school, rank order will be determined on the basis outlined below:i) Final selection will be on the basis of the initial letter of the surname as it appears on the birth certificate with pupils
being selected in the order set out below. The order was determined by a randomised selection of letters generated by www.miniwebtool
X N M G B D V R Q E Y P L W Z T J K C I H F U A S O ii) Where surnames begin with the same letter, the second and, if necessary, subsequent letters will be used for
admission using the same randomised selection of letters.iii) Where children have the same surname, the initial letter of the first forename, as it appears on the birth certificate
will be used for admission using the same randomised selection of letters.iv) Where no priority can be established by this means (e.g. ‘Alan’ ‘Alanna’) the child with the shorter first forename will
be prioritised for admission.When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only take into account information which is detailed on or attached to the application form. Parents should therefore ensure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admissions criteria, is stated on the application form or attached to it.Criteria for children not in their final pre-school yearShould places remain after the application of the above criteria to children in their final pre-school year; places will be allocated strictly in accordance with chronological age beginning with the eldest child.The Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any application form.The provision of false or incorrect information or the failure to provide information within the deadlines set by pre-schools can result in the withdrawal of a place and the inability to offer a place on the part of any school nominated on the applicant’s application form.The school’s policy on the consideration of applications after the Open Enrolment Admissions procedure concludes on 9 th June is available directly from the school. Should a vacancy arise, the above criteria will be applied to select pupils from our waiting list.
6
Whitehouse Primary School Entry Criteria for 2017/18
Children who are resident in Northern Ireland at the time of their proposed admission to the school.
1. Children who have a sibling (half sibling, step sibling, foster sibling) attending Whitehouse Primary School (Primary 1 to Primary 7) when applications are being processed.
2. Children who Whitehouse Primary School is their nearest primary school as decided by a straight line digital measurement using the post code address of their normal residence to the post code addresses of surrounding primary schools. Whitehouse Primary School & Nursery Unit will use the Northern Ireland Portal for Geographical Information (GI) decision making tool, Spatial N.I., to determine distances.
3. Children with a sibling (half sibling, step sibling, foster sibling) applying for, or been offered, a place in the Nursery Unit in September 2017.
4. Children of staff members and school Governors.
5. Children with a sibling (half sibling, step sibling, foster sibling) who were former pupils of Whitehouse Primary School (Primary 1 to Primary 7).
6. Children who live nearest to the school as decided by a straight line digital measurement using the post code address of their normal residence to the post code address of Whitehouse Primary School & Nursery Unit. Whitehouse Primary School & Nursery Unit will use the Northern Ireland Portal for Geographical Information (GI) decision making tool, Spatial N.I., to determine distances.
7. In the event of two or more children living the same distance from school, rank order will be determined on the basis outlined below:
a. Final selection will be on the basis of the initial letter of the surname as it appears on the birth certificate with pupils being selected in the order set out below. The order was determined by a randomised selection of letters generated by www.miniwebtool.
X N M G B D V R Q E Y P L W Z T J K C I H F U A S O
b. Where surnames begin with the same letter, the second and, if necessary, subsequent letters will be used for admission using the same randomised selection of letters.
c. Where children have the same surname, the initial letter of the first forename, as it appears on the birth certificate will be used for admission using the same randomised selection of letters.
d. Where no priority can be established by this means (e.g. ‘Alan’ ‘Alanna’) the child with the shorter first forename will be prioritised for admission.
7
MISSION STATEMENT ‘Education is not preparation for life;
Education is life itself’John Dewey
If asked to define the essence of the ‘Whitehouse experience’ it would be best expressed through our school vision statement: ‘Learning to Live’.
We aim to provide an education that is more than a means to an end. High academic achievements are important but they are only one part of the wider education we provide. If a child leaves our school highly literate and numerate without developing a joy of learning and the ability to see the value in themselves and others we have not achieved our goals.
Our inclusive ethos and wider curriculum have a dual purpose. We want pupils to be successful children today as well as accomplished adults in the future. Each pupil through their Whitehouse ‘journey’, we hope, will learn much, but live more.
Our Values: Underpinning our vision are four key values. These values influence the ‘why’ of what we aspire for and do. These key values are:
1. To be a Happy & Healthy Environment
2. To develop Skilled Learners & Flexible Thinkers
3. To value Partnerships both Locally & Globally
4. To inspire High Aspirations and Achievements
Our school mission statement has CHILDREN at its heart.
Care & Wellbeing Central Health & Sport PromotedInvolving Parents & CommunityLearning & Teaching FocusedDeveloping Technology & CreativityRaising Expectations & StandardsExcellence & Innovation PursuedNetworking Locally & Globally
8
Aims:
Whitehouse Primary School’s commitment to its CHILDREN is reflected in the following agreed aims. The school works with children to:
fully develop their academic potential
promote high achievement through recognising and developing their physical, emotional, intellectual, cultural, creative, spiritual and moral skills
develop the qualities of a responsible citizen and to foster positive personal attitudes towards themselves, others and the environment
be equipped with knowledge and skills and be able to use them in the world in which they live and work
become problem solvers, independent thinkers and decision makers
be able to work both independently and with others
nurture a desire for life-long learning
School Culture
We believe that children will succeed through experiencing quality in:
a broad and balanced curriculum, sensitive to the needs of the individual
a safe, secure and stimulating learning environment
a variety of teaching and learning approaches
provision of resources and experiences
reinforcement of achievement, positive behaviour and attitudes
We demonstrate our commitment to working as a learning community by:
continuing our own professional development
working together as a team to develop a progressive learning environment by sharing expertise and good practice
monitoring and evaluating teaching and learning
maintaining high standards of teaching and high expectations for all pupils
working in partnership with home, the local community and external agencies
9
PASTORAL CAREAt Whitehouse Primary School, pastoral care permeates all aspects of school life. It reflects the values, attitudes, beliefs and practices of our all members of the school community - children, parents, teachers and support staff who contribute to the wellbeing of each child. The pastoral care of our pupils will be developed and enhanced through a wide range of activities, incorporated into and alongside the Northern Ireland Curriculum.
Each teacher in the school works very hard to create and maintain a caring and supportive environment in which all pupils can develop the personal and social skills they need to manage their lives. In addition we help them prepare for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of adult life. At Whitehouse Primary School, children are encouraged to play a positive role in the development of the school through a vibrant school council.
Pastoral care of pupils is an area of the highest importance for all our staff. We do, however, have a Pastoral Care Team to help champion this aspect of school life and to promote the quality of what we provide. This team also supports families and pupils who are experiencing challenging circumstance over a short and more extended period.
Health Promotion & WellbeingThe health and wellbeing of each individual pupil is a key priority. Our pastoral policies endeavour to ensure that every pupil feels secure and happy within the school environment. Therefore, it is of paramount importance that our school environment is safe and risk free.
In Whitehouse Primary School we use many opportunities to promote health and wellbeing. These include the following:
The curriculum offers many avenues for promoting health and good choices being explored. Teachers are sensitive to their responsibility and try to take every opportunity to address issues such as diet, exercise and general health issues.
A wide range of extra-curricular activities provide for pupils’ social, emotional and physical needs. This also includes the inclusion of residential trips. We believe these make a significant impact on pupils’ self-esteem, independence and ability to make good choices.
We have a monthly assembly that focuses on key themes for health and happiness. These are both enjoyable and powerful opportunities to get a consistent message across the school.
Theme MonthSeptember Child Protection & Internet SafetyOctober Firework SafetyNovember Anti-Bullying WeekDecember Charity Focus: Exploring and responding to poverty across the world.January Road SafetyFebruary Safety at HomeMarch Disability (Key Stage 1) and Racism explored (Key Stage 2)April Healthy Diet & Dental CareMay Getting Active & Water SafetyJune Action Cancer Workshop (Sun, Diet, Exercise, Anti-Smoking and Sleep)
10
HEALTHY EATING: A whole school focus on healthy eating. The importance of a good diet is developed via a number of avenues. These include:
1. A healthy break approach is in place across the school;2. The drinking of milk and water is promoted;3. The school kitchen provides balanced and healthy lunches;4. The Cookery Club develops fosters the value of cooking your own food and knowing ingredients.
A number of our pupils have nut allergies and as a result Whitehouse Primary School is a NUT FREE ZONE.
Child ProtectionThe school has a highly trained team who oversee child protection issues. They offer robust support to the whole school community and keep child protection a key priority. The team take pride in their work and are committed to its effective implementation.
The staff and Governors systematically review the policy every year. The updated Child Protection Policy is distributed to all our families every September. The parents of all new pupils who enrol within a school year will be issued with a policy.
Teachers and non-teaching staff receive updated training every August. The training is carefully evaluated and improvements made for the next year. Every staff member is issued a certificate and encouraged to display it in their work area. The next full day of training will be in August 2016. Staff and students who arrive during a school year are issued with a policy and then attend a member of the Pastoral Care Team within one week of taking up their post.
All records are secured in a safe location and are locked at all times. This information is treated as very confidential and sensitive data. Every care is taken to maintain its security.
The designated Governor for Child Protection is Mr Douglas. At every Board of Governors’ Meeting Child Protection will be a standing item on the agenda. At the end of every school year the designated teacher will prepare an annual report for the Governors on Child Protection. The Chair will also sign off the school’s complaint log against members of staff.
11
Positive Approach to Discipline: At Whitehouse Primary School we have very high standards of behaviour, which are a direct result of our positive and caring environment. There is a clear emphasis on reinforcing and praising good behaviour in order to raise children’s self-esteem. All children are valued and respected as individuals.
However, as a school we believe we should help pupils develop positive character traits. As a school we want to work with our parents to support the children in our care to develop strong values and have a sound character. Therefore, we have agreed our value words. These are to be honest, forgiving, helpful, responsible, caring and respectful. Each month pupils are encouraged to strive towards developing one of these very valuable traits. At the end of the month teachers award a pupil in their class with a Pupil of the Month Certificate
Every child is expected to behave in a responsible way, both to themselves and others, showing consideration, courtesy and respect at all times. They should take pride in the property, building and grounds of their school. Older pupils are encouraged to be good role models for the younger pupils and show a caring attitude towards them. After leaving Primary 7 it is our aim that they retain this positive view towards Whitehouse Primary School and are proud to be ex-pupils.
Regarding discipline we have four main aims:
1. To make pupils aware of the norms of acceptable behaviour for different situations both inside and outside school;2. To promote effective, happy and safe learning in school;3. To inculcate in pupils an awareness of and a respect for the needs of others and for property;4. To gradually help pupils to progress towards self-discipline and to prepare for adult citizenship.
In order to achieve such goals school rules are clearly and precisely laid out. A more detailed policy is available on request. Each class also produces and agrees class routines and rules. A consultation will be regularly carried out with Governors, staff, parents and pupils.
A copy of school’s Positive Behaviour and Discipline Policy and Anti-Bullying Policy can be requested from the school office.
SCHOOL COUNCIL: Pupils feel happier and participate in their education more effectively when their ideas are listened to and their opinions valued. In Whitehouse Primary School we believe that pupils should have their voices heard. The School Council is a formal group of pupils from Year 3 to 7 who are elected by their peers to represent the student body. It is a forum through which the pupils can contribute to the life of the school.
HOLIDAYS: Information about holidays will be sent to parents in January for the next school year. Copies will also be sent home in the Phoenix Newsletter in the Summer Term and then again in September of a new school year. The school website, under the Parents’ tab, will also publish the holidays for parents’ convenience. To ensure continuity and as little disruption to your child’s education as possible, we would encourage parents not to arrange family holidays during school term dates.
12
ATTENDANCE:The school recognises that every effort must be taken to maintain high levels of attendance. As a school we recognise that regular attendance is a quality indicator. If pupils attend well they are very often happy, feel valued and see school as a place that provides them with rewarding experiences.
Parents are responsible for ensuring that their children attend school and arrive on time for lessons. The school has put in place a four-step intervention scheme to support families whose children have attendance below 90%. This procedure is as follows:
The first month a child’s attendance falls below 90% they get a letter and are asked to return a slip to acknowledge they received the correspondence;
The second month a child’s attendance remains below 90%, and no improvement is evident, they get a letter and are asked to arrange an interview with the attendance coordinator. Each day they are off after this interview the parents are asked to phone the office to explain the absence. If they do not ring by 10am they will be phoned by the attendance coordinator;
The third month a child’s attendance is below 90%, and no improvement is evident, they get a letter and are asked to arrange an interview with the Principal. Each day they are off after this interview the parents is asked to continue to phone the office to explain the absence. If they do not ring by 10am they will be phoned by the attendance coordinator;
The fourth month a child’s attendance is below 90% a referral is made to an Educational Welfare Officer. The parent is informed by the Principal of this decision. Each day they are off after this interview the parents is asked to continue to phone the office to explain the absence. If they do not ring by 10am they will be phoned by the attendance coordinator.
This work is complimented with celebration of success by awarding house points and certificates to children with 100% attendance for a full month and a full year.
At the end of the school year 2014/15 the school had a 96%+ attendance rate. We are aiming to achieve 96.5% in 2015/16.
13
RELIGION The school promotes a Christian ethos. It does, however, welcomes pupils from all denominations, those from other faiths and others with no stated faith. We think to help pupils see their place in the world today and in the future that they should be allowed to explore their spiritual development.
Our Religious Education Programme has been developed to meet the requirements of the Northern Ireland Curriculum RE syllabus agreed by the main churches. It has the following key elements:
The Revelation of God; The Christian Church; Morality.
This work is reinforces by a three-year cycle of assemblies:
Creation to Canaan; Heroes of the Bible; Meet Jesus.
In addition to this the school provides a series of assemblies to explore the key significance of both Christmas and Easter. The school also goes out into the community to engage in worship across the local churches:
Harvest Services in St John’s - October; Key Stage 2 Carol Service in Newtownabbey Methodist Mission - December; Whitehouse Presbyterian Church Easter Workshops.
In addition to this, as part of our Shared Education Project, Year 5 pupils from our school visit St. James’s to see how they celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and go to Whitehouse Chapel to learn how they celebrate Easter.
The RE programme of study is something which pervades the whole life of our school, and which is encompassed in our ethos of pastoral care and spiritual development. Our aim is that pupils will have a wide, stimulating and positive perspective to the teaching and living out of religion in their school experience.
Relationship and Sexuality Education (R.S.E.)The Department of Education has placed a high emphasis upon preparing our pupils to feel positive about themselves, seeing the value in all relationships and be prepared for the changes that growing up brings to themselves and those around them.
The school recognises and embraces this responsibility in a very proactive way. Our provision has been agreed in consultation with pupils, parents, staff and Governors. The resulting programme is consistent with our wider ethos and pastoral provision. It is also age appropriate and sensitive to the needs of our pupils. Our parents felt that our teaching should prepare pupils for puberty, celebrate the wonder of creations and develop pupils’
14
value in who they are as individuals. This includes helping pupils value who they are and resisting media images and making good decisions.
All of our work is conducted in a broadly Christian ethos. Sexuality and relationships are seen in the context of values and morality. We are very pleased to work with ‘Love for Life’ a support organization who have a proven track record in supporting pupils and parents to embrace the chances of growing up.
Every November ‘Love for Live’ provide a workshop for Key Stage 2 parents. In January each year they work as part of our ‘New Year, New You’ week they do day workshop with our Year 7 pupils in helping them prepare for puberty. They also do a session with our Year 6 girls to help them prepare for the physical changes that they are/will be encountering.
THE CURRICULUM The curriculum, which formally began in all schools in Northern Ireland in September 2007, is now a statutory obligation for all teachers to deliver. All the teachers in Whitehouse Primary School have been fully trained in the delivery of the curriculum.
The curriculum is set out in six areas of learning:
Language and Literacy Mathematics and Numeracy The Arts The World Around Us Personal Development and Mutual Understanding Physical Education
*ICT being infused across all areas of the curriculum
This curriculum promotes children’s self-esteem by concentrating on activities and learning experiences which encourage confidence, curiosity and creativity. It encourages children to take an active responsibility for their own learning.
Children learn best when learning is interactive, practical and enjoyable. In Whitehouse Primary School pupils are given opportunities to learn in a variety of ways and in different social groupings. Teachers employ a wide range of teaching methods balancing whole class, group and individual activities to engage pupils in effective learning. The children are encouraged to make choices and decisions about their learning.
In addition, the pupils have access to up to date computer technology and use iPads to support their learning.
Teachers plan together each week to ensure pupils’ learning intentions are agreed and that work is planned, reviewed and evaluated every half term.
ASSESSMENT PROCEDURES Assessment of pupils’ work is an integral part of our teaching.
The main purposes of assessment are to:
1. Establish, through a variety of means, the achievements of each pupil;
2. Indicate possible ways of further attainment;
15
3. Assist the teacher in planning the next stage in each child’s learning process.
Pupils are continuously assessed by their teachers and records of each child’s attainment are kept, together with samples of work.
INFORMAL ASSESSMENT To ensure effective teaching and learning, pupils are assessed by the teacher at regular intervals through observations and regular assessments. Pupils are also encouraged to take responsibility for their learning through self-evaluation methods;
Records of attainment are passed on to each successive teacher. Parents are invited to two teacher-parent consultations when the teacher will share their assessments and their suggestions for future progress.
FORMAL ASSESSMENT GL assessments in Literacy and Numeracy tests in English and Mathematics are administered to all pupils from Year 3 to year 7 in May of each year. These results are analysed and used to plan for pupil improvement and the outcomes help to shape each pupil’s end of year report.
As with all schools in Northern Ireland, Whitehouse Primary School follows the End of Key Stage Assessment Procedures for Year 4 and Year 7 pupils, as legislated by the Department of Education and the Curriculum Education and Assessment Council (CCEA).
SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS Pupils with special needs will be identified through teacher observation, assessment and performance in standardised tests. Parents will be made aware of any concerns as soon as possible. In accordance with the Code of Practice the identified educational needs of each child will be catered for by his/her class teacher who is supported by relevant outside agencies where appropriate. Our Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator ensures that appropriate Education Plans are drawn up for every child who may be experiencing difficulty in his/her learning.
We have support teachers and additional classroom assistants who works with children on an individual and group basis to further develop skills in Literacy and Numeracy.
HOMEWORK The school recognises the importance of parental support in the education of its pupils. It also recognises the fact that a child’s education does not end when he/she leaves school each day. Homework is regarded as an integral part of every pupil’s learning. Each class has an individual homework schedule based on the needs and maturity of the pupils. Details will be issued to parents at the beginning of each year during curriculum evenings. The purpose of homework is:
To encourage parental involvement; To make parents aware of the standard of their child’s work; To encourage the child to work independently of the teacher; To give the child confidence in his/her ability; To reinforce facts or skills learned in school.
Homework set by the school should be supervised and signed by parents. We would encourage you to contact the child’s teacher if there are any difficulties regarding homework.
16
MUSIC PROVISION All pupils have the opportunity to experience and develop their skills in music. We currently provide tuition in recorder for Year 5 to 7. Every year pupils get to participate in a musical production via Christmas services. All Year 4 to 7 pupils are invited to join the school choir. Every second year all Key Stage 2 pupils will also be invited to participate in an all ability school show.
Specialist tuition is also available from a team of skilled musical specialists in: • Wind - flute and clarinet;• Strings - violin.
In addition, pupils receiving musical tuition are entered annually for the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music exams.
EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: Educational visits and extra-curricular activities also play an important and integral part in the development of the whole child in Whitehouse Primary School. A wide range of after school activities are offered to pupils. These include: football, netball, Jumping Clay, SongStars, ICT Club, Art Club, Film Club, Cookery Club and Grandparents’ Club.
CURRICULUM COMPLAINTS: Where parents consider that the curriculum provision for their child is not satisfactory, they are invited to express their concern to the school through:
The class teacher; The Head of Department; The Vice Principal; The Principal; The School Board of Governors.
CHARGES AND REMISSION POLICY: In order to satisfy the requirements of the Education Reform Order (NI) 1989, the school has a charges and remissions policy, details of which are available from the school.
MOBILE PHONES: Children are discouraged from bringing mobiles phones to school. If it is absolutely necessary for a child to have a phone for their journey to and from school, they must turn it off during the school day. They may leave it in with the school secretary with their name on the outside of an envelope. It will be stored in the office until 2.55pm when they can collect it prior to going home. If pupils do not hand in their phones the school will not accept responsibility for their return
UNIFORM Suppliers:
17
School uniform is a key element of our ethos. It will be regularly monitored and enforced.
Suppliers: Online Store, http://www.ourschooluniform.com Tel: 02892 621115 G & J Geddis Ltd, 18 - 22 York Street, Belfast. Tel : 02890 351554
UNIFORM:
Key Points to remember:
All uniform items should be clearly marked with your child’s name;
Footwear - Children should wear sensible flat black shoes to school (not trainers.) No platform soles or high heels are allowed;
Children are not to come to school with unnatural coloured dyed hair or/and outlandish/extreme hairstyles that cause a distraction to others;
The only jewellery permitted in school on health and safety grounds is a wristwatch and a medical bracelet. Watches should be removed and medical bracelets covered with a sweatband to partake in P.E;
Earrings are strongly discouraged in school. If parents opt for their child to wear earrings they must only be small studs, either silver or gold;
Children who are participating in P.E., swimming, sports clubs and /or physical activities must not wear earrings. On days when these activities are scheduled children must leave their earrings at home. We do not want pupils removing and replacing earrings. This is due to the potential risk of injury, earrings being lost/stolen and the spread of infections. Staff will not be responsible for the removal, insertion or storage of earrings;
If jewellery is lost the staff will not investigate. Parents sending children to school with jewellery must accept this risk and know that their children will be challenged. If a child is found with jewellery they will be asked to go to the office and place it in a sealed envelope. Parents will need to make an appointment with the office to collect the jewellery;
Make-up is not to be worn to school by children.
School Uniform Red school sweatshirt with the approved logo;
Alternative option for Key Stage 2 children
White cotton shirt; Whitehouse Primary school tie; Grey, knitted, V-neck jumper (boys)
or grey, knitted cardigan (girls); The rest of the school uniform is as
stated above.
18
Dark green polo shirt with the school embroidered badge; Dark grey trousers or knee length grey skirt; Black/grey socks (boys); White/grey socks or plain grey/black tights (girls); Plain flat black shoes.
P.E. Uniform (Year 3 to Year 7 only) White round neck t shirt with red embroidered school name; Dark green shorts; Black plimsolls; Hair band/clip to tie back long hair; P.E. kit should be in a named draw string bag.
.
SCHOOL DAY:The Day Begins
8.15am Breakfast Club every morning from 8.15am until 9am. This service costs £1 per day.
8.45am Teachers are on duty in the playgrounds. Pupils must not be in the school grounds before this time unless they are going to the school’s breakfast club.
8.45am Nursery pupils start their morning.
8.55am School bell rings to let children know that they should get into lines.
9:00am Classes begin. Please note that punctuality is important.
The Day Ends -
1.15pm Nursery pick up time.
2.00pm Year 1 and 2 pupils’ pick up time each day. Year 3 pick up time at 2pm on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Year 4 pick up time each Wednesday.
3.00pm Year 5 to 7 going home time each day. Year 4 pick up time all week except Wednesday. Year 3 pick up time at 3pm on Tuesday and Thursday.
All pupils have forty-five minutes for lunch. This allows for time to eat and play outside. We try and get pupils outside if at all possible so make sure your child comes to school within suitable outdoor clothing e.g. hats, coats and gloves in cold weather.
Parents may choose to take a packed lunch or cooked dinner for their children. Parents in receipt of Income Support, Income Based Job Seekers Allowance or Pension Credit are eligible to apply for free meals for their children. Application forms are available at the secretary’s office.
Paid dinners are available on a daily basis. A copy of the dinner menu is sent home and is on the school website (parents’ tab) and we would ask that payment for the week is made on a Monday.
Alternative option for Key Stage 2 children
White cotton shirt; Whitehouse Primary school tie; Grey, knitted, V-neck jumper (boys)
or grey, knitted cardigan (girls); The rest of the school uniform is as
stated above.
19
COMMUNITY LINKSCore to the school’s ethos is a desire to both enrich the local community and draw resources from it. We enjoy the help and support of a number of key stakeholders and partners.
These include:Family Connections, Abbey Community College, St James’s Primary School & Nursery Unit, Extended School cluster group, Local business used for specific lessons and topics e.g. Tesco, Local churches and various national and local charities.
Our Year 7 pupils participate in various activities that provide them with opportunities to visit local post primary schools. They attend taster sessions, school productions and meet pupils and staff prior to their transition in September. Positive links are also enjoyed with local primary schools, in particular St. James’s Primary School, through which our pupils participate in various Shared Education work during the year.
Pupils use the facilities in the local community including Rathcoole Library and the Valley Leisure Centre. They avail of programmes such as ‘Bee Safe’ and the annual road safety quiz. Health education talks are delivered by the school nurse. In addition the school hosts student teachers and work experience pupils.
PARENT LIAISONS: It is our aim to involve parents in the education of their child and to keep them as fully informed as possible about their child’s progress at school. Parents are encouraged to take a keen interest in the affairs of the school and their support in attending various functions is very much appreciated. In addition we have more formal opportunities throughout the year for parent-teacher communication.
Autumn Term:
Year 1 Parent & Teacher Interviews (September); Year 2 to 6 ‘Meet the Teacher’ evenings; Year 1 workshop for Jolly Phonics; Nursery Parent & Teacher Interviews (October); Year 2 to 7 Parent & Teacher Interviews (October); The Principal will interview and discuss provision for pupils who are underperforming
(October); I.E.P. reviews for pupils on the Special Needs Register (October).
Christmas Term:
Year 1 Numicon Workshops (November); ‘Love for Life’ K.S.2 parent workshop (November).
Winter Term:
‘New Year, New You’ Information Talks e.g. Internet Safety (January); Year 6 Parent Transfer Talk (February); Transfer Interviews for Year 7 pupils (February); Nursery to Year 7 Parent & Teacher Interviews (February); I.E.P. reviews for pupils on the Special Needs Register (February).
Spring & Summer Term
20
Induction days for new Nursery and Primary One pupils and their parents (May and June);
Formal written reports issued to parents (June); Interviews upon request for parents who require advice concerning their children’s
reports (June); Interviews for Year 6 parents requiring advice on the transfer process; The Principal will interview and provide feedback on pupils who are underperforming
(October); Parents of pupils requiring support will be invited into school to discuss provision for
September.
PARENT TEACHER ASSOCIATION: We have a very strong, enthusiastic, hardworking team of parents who form the Whitehouse Primary School Parent Teacher Association (PTA).The PTA organise various fundraising and social events throughout the school year which raise much appreciated funds for the school. They also help with charitable work and assist at a variety of school events. Information will be sent home to notify parents of meetings and fund raising events.
CONCLUSION Now that you have read this school prospectus, I hope you will have some idea of the rich and varied life your child will have whilst a pupil at Whitehouse Primary School.
You can be assured that your child will receive the highest standard of teaching from our team of very committed teachers. You can also be assured that your child’s happiness and wellbeing will be our concern at all times during his/her years at our school.
The most recent inspection of the school was conducted in January 2008.The inspection was carried out by members of the Education and Training Inspectorate for the Department of Education. The following are extracts from the Inspection Report issued:
‘The school provides a caring, orderly and supportive learning environment in which the children’s contributions are valued…The behaviour of the children is excellent, they show motivation and enjoyment in their learning and they are keen to talk about their work.’
‘The quality of the arrangements for pastoral care and child protection in the school is excellent.’
‘Among the strengths are the high quality of the working relationships throughout the school; the high priority given to the health and wellbeing of the staff and the children; the creative ways in which the children’s views are considered with regard to pastoral matters and the strong and effective leadership of the pastoral care team.’
21
‘The school offers an extensive range of extra-curricular activities and clubs for the children, including cookery, drama, music, athletics, football, netball and swimming. The school has established good links with parents; they are well-informed about their children’s progress and about school life.’
‘The school has developed very effective links with the other local schools, including the post-primary schools to which the children transfer.’
‘The teachers plan their work conscientiously in year groups, and there is a clear focus on the intended learning. The planning addresses differentiation, consolidation and progression. The teachers formally evaluate their planning and discuss this in their year groups and within the curriculum teams.’
‘The quality of teaching observed during the inspection was always sound, consistently very good and at times outstanding. Lessons are well-structured and imaginatively resourced, often with materials that the teachers have prepared themselves.’
Further information about the school may be accessed on the school website
www.whitehouseps.co.uk
The information contained in this prospectus is correct at the time of publication, November 2016. Parents will appreciate that some changes may occur.
Whitehouse Primary School Primary School
2, Doagh Road, Newtownabbey, BT36 9NZ Tel: 028 909252
Email: [email protected] www.whitehouseps.co.uk
22
