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Prospectus Welcome to Charles Darwin Community Primary School. We are very proud of our whole school community and hope that you will find this booklet useful as it aims to provide you with information about our daily life. Should you need to know more, please see our School Learning Platform at www.charlesdarwin.cheshire.sch.uk or you are most welcome to make an appointment to visit the school or to contact us via telephone, or e-mail.

Charles Darwin is a community primary school for pupils 4+ to 11 years of age. As a staff we pride ourselves on our caring professionalism; everything we do is concerned with seeing the children in our care develop into confident, independent and healthy individuals. By providing a balanced education and giving equal value to all of our children, Charles Darwin aims to impart values and skills that will last beyond their years with us. In March 2011 Ofsted described our school as “welcoming and harmonious” and went on to state that; “Warm relationships, consistently good behaviour and positive pupil attitudes enable pupils to fully live up to their school motto. Charles Darwin clearly is a school where learning is a joy”.

Our School Charles Darwin Community Primary School was built in 1911 to provide education for junior boys aged seven and above. In 1961 it amalgamated with the local girls’ school and, in the early 1970s, an infant department was created with the closure of the nearby Park Street Infant School. Although it retains its original exterior grandeur the interior of the building reflects the basic philosophy of the school, providing a visually stimulating and exciting environment in which pupils can learn and grow both aesthetically and academically. There are twelve classrooms in all. The main hall is used for assemblies, PE, drama, movement and also for dining. The school has an outdoor classroom, large field and extensive playground including an adventure playground which was designed by our children. The school staff in 2015-2016 consists of Headteacher, sixteen teachers, seventeen teaching assistants, School Business Manager, two Administrative Officers, Site Manager, Cook, Cleaners, Canteen Staff, Midday Assistants and lollipop lady! Personnel from other support agencies further serve the school. Parents, carers and members of the community are warmly welcomed at all times and we are delighted that a good number regularly help out in school. Our School Community is a very special one. The children representing a cross section of the local community; they are enthusiastic, well mannered and exceptional to work with. Their families support them very well and we appreciate and value all the support the school receives.

Charles Darwin Vision Statement All members of the Charles Darwin Primary School community share a common aim; that our children become confident, independent, secure and caring individuals who achieve personal success and develop a love of learning. By understanding what our children already know, we will inspire learning through excellent

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teaching and a passion for bringing a rich and varied curriculum to life. In order to achieve our vision we have agreed the following aims: 1. We aim to provide a safe, welcoming and stimulating environment by:

o Warmly welcoming children into school and classes each day o Accentuating the positive at all times o Providing children with the opportunity to talk o Listening to what children have to say o Displaying and celebrating the work and achievements of all children o Utilising both the immediate school environment and the wider environment to stimulate

and aid teaching and learning

2. We aim to raise standards by: o Striving to meet the individual needs of all children o Having high expectations of behaviour and attainment for all o Providing a broad, balanced, challenging and fun-filled curriculum o Providing high quality teaching using a wide variety of teaching and learning styles and

strategies o Setting appropriate targets and tracking, monitoring and assessing children’s progress o Sharing expertise throughout the school and wider community

3. We aim to develop children’s self-respect and respect for others by: o Accentuating the positive at all times o Ensuring that all children are treated and valued equally regardless of background,

gender, culture or belief o Encouraging children to respond positively to the diversity of modern society

4. We aim to develop children’s independence and ability to think by:

o Encouraging children to question o Providing opportunities for children to discuss issues rationally o Providing opportunities for children to work and act independently o Providing opportunities for children to work collaboratively and co-operatively with their

peers. o Providing opportunities for children to assess their own learning and that of their peers o Involving children in decision-making process within school

5. We aim to help children recognise their roles and responsibilities by:

o Involving children in their own learning, target setting and self assessment o Involving children in drawing up of class and whole school rules o Involving the elected School Council in the decision making process o Involving children in leading playground games and maintaining playground harmony o Involving older children in helping younger members of the school community through

buddying and academic mentoring o Encouraging children to consider their impact upon the school, local and wider

environment

Admissions Policy The admission of 4 year olds will be at the start of the school year in September. Before entering full time education we provide our new pupils with an extremely effective transition and familiarization process during the previous summer term which includes inviting parents and children into school for visit days, lunches and wide ranging information meetings with all key staff. Parents and carers are given both general and specific information to help them prepare their child for the move to school.

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General Admissions Individual school-aged pupils can be admitted to school throughout the school year and the staff endeavour to make the settling in period as smooth as possible. Any parent wishing to register their child is welcome to get in touch with us to arrange a visit and meet with the Headteacher. The Governing Body follows the LA admissions policy that establishes admission dates, standard numbers for each year group and an appeals procedure. The Governors follow CWAC recommendations of admitting pupils if the school is full. This policy is available from the school office on request. Charles Darwin Community Primary School has a planned admission limit and a catchment area as defined by the Local Education Authority. Children from outside the catchment area will be admitted provided the school’s admission limit has not been reached.

School Routines & Procedures Teaching Organisation In September 2015 there are 318 pupils at Charles Darwin. Children are admitted to school in the September prior to their fifth birthday and they will spend up to seven full years in the school. Any child reaching the age of five years between 1 September and 31 August may be admitted full time to school on the first day of the Autumn term in September. Our priority is to keep class numbers as low as possible; a major contributory factor in raising standards.

Teaching Staff and class arrangements and in 2015-2016 are as follows:- Senior Leadership Team Headteacher: Mr Adam Croft Deputy Headteacher: Mrs Marianne Bennett Assistant Head / Head of Infants Miss Joanne Tilley

Reception / Early Years Foundation Stage

Miss Tilley Mrs Dobson Mrs Ball Mrs Wood TAs ~ Mrs Miller / Mrs Nixon / Mrs Ollier Y1 Mrs Hynes / Mrs Caliskan Y1 Mrs Holden / Mrs Simpson / Mrs Wharton Y2 Mrs Ronald / Mrs Blades Y2 Miss Coventry / Mrs Wheldon / Mrs Taylor

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Y3 /4 (3 classes) Mrs Trubshaw / Mrs Kinder / Mrs Macauley Mr Solan / Mrs Ellwood Mrs Holloway (Mon to Thu) Mrs Thomas (Fri) / Mrs Rustage Y5 Miss Tench / Mrs Shaw Miss Bilotta / Mrs Smithies Y6 Mrs Bennett Ms Railton / Mrs Roberts / Mrs Thompson

Office Staff: School Business manager Mrs Fitzsimmons / Admin Officers Mrs Leather, Mrs Oliver

Site Manager: Mr Hadfield All staff at Charles Darwin work in close partnership to ensure that your child’s progress through school is both smooth and well structured. Teaching and non–teaching staff have a common wish to make the primary years happy, valuable and safe and aim to give pupils a firm educational foundation and a love of learning within a caring environment.

Children’s Welfare The safety and wellbeing of our children is paramount; Ofsted judged the care, guidance and support we provide as “exceptional” and “outstanding.” In order to safeguard your child’s welfare we insist that all visitors report to the school office on arrival, sign in and out of the visitor’s book and take a copy of our safeguarding procedures. Any parent wishing to collect their child during school hours is requested to inform the school in advance and also to sign their child in or out at the school office. The school building and site is fully secure from 9.05pm until 3.00pm, and any access or exit must be made through the main entrance. The school assumes responsibility for children at 8.40am, when the Headteacher is on the playground. Any children on the school premises before this time must be supervised by a parent or guardian. We aim to complete registration and begin the first lesson by 9.00am prompt. Please be punctual when bringing and collecting your child and if possible, telephone to let us know if you are going to be late. Your child’s safety is our priority and as such we must be informed in advance if your child is to be collected by someone other than the usual person.

Attendance Continued improved attendance is a priority for our school as it is essential for successful learning and social development to take place, we have a school target of 96% attendance. Government legislation dictates that the school must account for every absence; that is, we must determine that it is legitimate. We ask therefore that parents notify the school as soon as possible if their child will not be attending for any reason by telephone leaving a message may be left on the answer machine. Forms must be completed if any parent/carer is seeking authorization for their child to be absent from school for any reason. In line with government legislation the school will not authorize any holidays in term time; if a holiday of more than five days is taken then parents may be issued with fixed penalty notice by the local authority.

Our attendance data has improved for four consecutive years and one of our prime aims is to continue this trend. Certificates are awarded to every child who has a 100% attendance record each term; those who do not miss a session all year are entered into a prize draw with the winner getting a £100 voucher courtesy of the Friends Of The School Association. The best attending class each week is also celebrated in Friday’s Achievement Assembly.

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The School Day The school day begins at 8.50 am when pupils are collected from the playground by their teacher; registration period ends at 9.00 am. The Headteacher or member of the Senior Leadership team is on the playground from 8.40 am daily. Children have access to the playground but parents are reminded that they are responsible for supervising their child until the doors are opened and the children come into the building. The timetable below is typical of a normal day at Charles Darwin School: 8.50 – 8.55 am All pupils in school 8.55 am Registration for all children 9.00 am End of Registration Period /First teaching session 10.00 am Morning assembly ~ three days per week 10.20 am Infant Morning break 10.40 am Second teaching session for infants beginning with a 20 minutes phonics

lesson 10.40 am Junior morning break 11.00 am Second teaching session for juniors 12.00 pm Infant Lunch Break 12.30 pm Junior Lunch Break 1.00 pm End of Infant lunch break 1.15 pm End of Junior lunch break 3.15 pm End of day Infant teachers may decide to take their class out for an afternoon play if they see it as appropriate.

Food and Drink It is our policy to encourage children to eat a healthy diet. At morning play a snack consisting of a drink, toast, breadsticks, crumpets, bagels or fruit can be purchased, money should be paid into your child’s account in the same way as for school lunches. Each child has their own account for lunches/snack. Alternatively children are welcome to bring a healthy snack from home. All KS1 children have the opportunity to eat fruit during the day. Children may bring in their own bottle with pop-up top to be filled with water each day.

Lunch Times All infant (KS1) children are entitled to a free school meal or they can bring their own packed lunch from home. KS2 children can choose either to purchase a healthy, nutritional lunch from school or to bring a packed lunch from home. We operate a ‘cashless’ dinner/snack money system, money should be brought to school on a Monday, for the week, in a named sealed envelope and given to the class teacher at registration or posted in the secure box outside the office. At present, lunch costs £2.15 per day. Lunch times are staggered so that children are not waiting too long after the end of the morning session. Infant children go straight in at the end of the morning. There is a rota for junior classes; this changes weekly. The food provided meets with the approved ‘healthy meals’ standards. Staff encourage good habits but never force a child to take or eat something they don’t want. Children who have school meals can supplement their choices from the canteen by self selection from the salad bar.

Medication Medicines are not allowed in school unless prescribed by a doctor and requiring four or more doses per day to be given. If medication is needed for a minor ailment and your child is genuinely well enough to be in school then parents or a nominated adult must come into school to administer it. If this is absolutely impractical then parents should contact the school office and complete an ’Administration of Medicines’ form. The Senior Leadership Team will then decide whether a member

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of school staff may administer the medicine. If this is the case then the designated member of staff must complete a “Record of Medicines Administered” form every time this is done. These forms are kept in Mr Croft’s office. If your child takes permanent medication such as an asthma inhaler then this is permitted but must be clearly labeled and a medical form completed. Children will be expected to administer the medication themselves under the supervision of a first aider if appropriate.

School Dress School uniform consisting of navy sweatshirt/cardigan worn with a plain red polo shirt should be worn by all children. The sweatshirts / cardigans and polo shirts, with the school logo, are available to purchase on line, see link under Parents on school website (www.charlesdarwin.cheshire.sch.uk). These tops are worn with dark grey / black trousers / shorts or skirt / pinafore etc. and black shoes (not trainers). In the summer sandals may be worn and girls can wear red gingham dresses. It is essential that all items of clothing are clearly named to ensure return if mislaid.

Physical Education Physical Education is part of the school curriculum and all classes have at least two lessons of PE per week. Pupils are expected to be suitably dressed for these lessons wearing a navy t-shirt with school logo or a plain navy t-shirt, navy shorts and pumps for indoor lessons. Trainers and navy blue track suits are needed for outdoor activities. Navy t-shirts, hooded PE sweatshirts and PE bags with the school logo are all available to purchase from the school uniform shop. (Please note: the hooded sweatshirt is to be worn for PE only). Trainers are not suitable for gymnastics work in the hall. The school offers a wide variety of sports as after school clubs and we regularly compete in matches, competitions and tournaments against neighbouring schools, with great success! All children from year 1 upwards have the opportunity to take part in swimming lessons each year.

Jewellery The vast majority of jewellery is not appropriate for school as it can present a hazard in many situations. If a child has pierced ears then a small pair of studs may be worn. Children from Year 2 are permitted to wear watches but the school does not accept responsibility for loss or damage.

Behaviour and Discipline We pride ourselves on the good behaviour of our children and were delighted when Ofsted agreed, judging the “Warm relationships, consistently good behaviour and positive pupil attitudes…” instrumental in ensuring children’s good progress. Our school policies promote respect for others and the opportunity for our children to grow personally, socially and academically. As a school we value and reward good behaviour and have agreed class and whole school rewards and sanctions. We appreciate the support of parents and carers with regard to the smooth running of the school and keep them informed if a child’s behaviour is giving us cause for concern.

Our agreed whole school rules are as follows:

Follow instructions first time Keep hands, feet, objects and unkind words to yourself Respect all property Walk on the left in single file

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We hold a weekly ‘Achievement Assembly’ where we celebrate both high quality work and good behaviour across the school by recognising two children from each class who have achieved that week. These children receive a ‘Star of the Week’ certificate and their photograph is put up on our Achievers Board. At this assembly we also celebrate the attendance of classes and children that week. Upon joining the school each child is allocated to one of our four “Houses.” Children throughout the school are awarded House Points for good behavior, actions or attitudes; these are then totaled to provide a winner each week. Members of that House are rewarded by attending school out of uniform the following Monday. A running total of House Points is kept across the year with the winning House getting a special treat at the end of the year; this is the children’s choice with bowling being the decision for the last three years. Each term two children from each class are elected to serve as class representatives on the School Council. This body plays an important role in the decision making and reward and sanctions processes within school and in the monitoring of the school rules.

First Aid Our children’s safety is our prime concern and we ensure that qualified first aiders are on site at all times. At present there are four members of teaching staff who hold a full First Aid Certificate and four mid day assistants who have an emergency first aid qualification. If a child becomes unwell or is involved in an accident a parent will be contacted as soon as possible. Should parents or relatives be unavailable when a child is seriously ill or injured medical advice and treatment will be sought as necessary.

Safeguarding Children / Child Protection Your child’s welfare is our first priority. Because of day to day contact with children, schools are particularly well placed to observe changes in attitude or behaviour, failure to develop or outwards signs of abuse. Parents should be aware therefore, that where it appears to a member of staff that a child may have been subject to inappropriate conduct or abuse, the school is required, as part of Safeguarding and Child Protection procedures, to report their concerns to the Social Care Department. We also operate a whistleblowing policy whereby any member of the school community is required to pass on any concerns they may. Mr Adam Croft (Headteacher) is the named person responsible for all Safeguarding and Child Protection issues, in his absence any concerns should be directed to Mrs Marianne Bennett (Deputy Headteacher)

Moving from One Class to Another As the children grow older, they will move from one teacher to another. Their new teacher will have access to the children’s records and will have discussions with colleagues about each child’s particular strengths and needs. Previous teachers will offer advice and suggestions for each new class so providing continuity and progression throughout the school.

Transfer to and from Charles Darwin Charles Darwin enjoys excellent relationships with all feeder nurseries, pre schools and local high schools. In all instances we meet with staff from other settings to discuss any concerns or transitional issues well in advance of the time for a move. Designated transition staff assist in the move to High School, discussing the attainment and needs of individual Y6 children in detail and ensuring that their visits to the new settings go well. Children throughout Charles Darwin enjoy wide ranging opportunities to attend high schools for varying reasons.

The Curriculum The curriculum at Charles Darwin Primary School firmly underpins the school Vision and Aims. It is the totality of the children’s learning experiences. We believe that all children have the right to a broad, balanced, challenging and relevant curriculum, which provides continuity and progression and

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takes individual needs into account. At Charles Darwin we believe in developing independent active learners and in giving children increasing responsibility for aspects of their own development. We believe that learning is a continuous process involving the acquisition, interpretation and application of skills, knowledge and concepts and on developing positive attitudes. The aims of the curriculum are to set high standards for all children and to support them to achieve these targets through high quality teaching and appropriate and varied learning experiences. The taught curriculum is designed to meet the requirements of the National Curriculum and to provide opportunities for enhancing citizenship skills and children’s personal, social, cultural and spiritual development. At Charles Darwin we believe that high quality teaching and learning in reading, writing and maths is the building block for all other aspects of school life. In 2011 we were recognised for our strengths in this vital area when we were awarded the “Basic Skills Quality Mark” with an exceptional report. The foundation subjects are then taught through cross curricular topics. This means that children are able to get a rounded and joined up understanding of an area of learning and can achieve learning objectives through different areas of the curriculum. Wherever appropriate an educational visit is included in every topic as we feel first hand experience of something greatly enhances the learning experience. The National Curriculum is organised as follows:

Early Years Foundation Stage ~ up to 5 years old

Key Stage 1 ~ 5 – 7 years old

Key Stage 2 ~ 7 – 11 years old The National Curriculum subjects applicable to Primary Schools are: English, Mathematics, Science, Art & Design, Computing, Design & Technology, Languages, Geography, History, Music, Physical Education In addition to these subjects schools must provide Religious Education and Sex & Relationship Education

Foundation Stage Curriculum Our Reception children follow the “Early Years Foundation Stage” curriculum which comprises the following: Prime Areas

Personal, Social and Emotional Development

Communication and Language

Physical development Specific Areas

Literacy

Maths

Understanding the World

Expressive Arts and Design

Learning for young children should be an enjoyable and rewarding experience in which they explore, investigate and discover their developing knowledge, skills, understanding and attitudes in all areas. Reception children are provided with opportunities to play independently and to participate in adult directed tasks both indoors and out, so allowing them to develop the foundation skills necessary for the transition to Year 1.

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Whole School Curriculum English At Charles Darwin English is taught in accordance with the National Curriculum. Our aim is to enable our children to be confident in their use of spoken and written language and to have effective literacy and communication skills. Reading Throughout the school children are encouraged to read a wide range of literature for pleasure and for reference purposes. We believe that reading at home is vital and encourage children to take home books to read on a regular basis. In addition to being taught across the curriculum and in daily Literacy lessons, all children take part in a half hour reading lesson per day and on top of this all infants take part in a 20 minute phonics session where they learn how to read and spell through knowledge of letter sounds. Writing All children are taught to write confidently for a variety of purposes. Fluency in story, verse and a range of non-fiction writing is developed alongside grammatical skills and spelling strategies. Mathematics Our Mathematics curriculum covers all of the requirements of the National Curriculum. Children develop an understanding of the number system and a repertoire of computational skills; they gain confidence when using measures and improve their ability to solve and discuss problems set in a range of contexts. Beginning at the Foundation stage mental strategies are emphasised and children are given regular opportunities to extend their knowledge and skills. Our aim is that all children become confident and competent in all areas of the subject so providing them with the mathematical requirements for future years. Science We aim to develop a positive attitude to science and children’s scientific knowledge and skills by placing an emphasis on learning through practical investigation and discovery. Emphasis is placed upon the development of the following scientific processes:

Observing, exploring, ordering and recording observations

Posing questions and hypotheses and devising investigations to answer them

Appreciating patterns and relationships

Interpreting findings critically

Developing logical thinking

Communicating

Acquiring knowledge and skills

Developing attitudes of perseverance and co-operation Computing At Charles Darwin we believe that access to and confidence in ICT is imperative as it provides a superb learning tool and prepares children to participate fully in a rapidly changing world. We have the internet in every classroom, as well as interactive whiteboards, laptops, cameras and additional technology to provide our children with ample opportunities to progress and develop. Languages Infant children have the opportunity to learn and enjoy French in clubs. Juniors follow a programme of Spanish lessons provided by a specialist teacher once per week. Physical Education We place great importance of regular physical exercise and skills development. All classes have at least two sessions of PE per week in addition to a large number of extra-curricular clubs and activities.

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Religious Education We believe that Religious Education is concerned with laying the foundations which will provide children with a basis of understanding and respect toward others. As well as developing knowledge and understanding of Christianity and other principal religions, RE is concerned with moral, spiritual, social and cultural development. All pupils are encouraged to explore and reflect upon religious beliefs, practices and values regardless of their personal commitments.

Sex and Relationships Education The School Governors at Charles Darwin have agreed that we follow the nationally recommended Christopher Winter programme of sex and relationships education. This will be appropriate to the children’s age and experience and all issues will be sensitively dealt with; links with the science curriculum will also be made wherever possible. At all ages parents are welcome to discuss the content of the lessons and to view any materials that may be used. We will always listen to parents views sensitively. Additional curricular information Wherever possible teachers will plan and teach in a thematic manner, using an overall topic to motivate and inspire their children. Information on the topics and curriculum is sent home at the beginning of each half term. In addition to their regular lessons all junior age children go for a term of swimming lessons per year and study a foreign language. Y5 pupils receive free cello or violin lessons for the year and have their own instrument to look after to practise with for that time.

Homework At Charles Darwin we see the educational process as a partnership between the school and the home and this is most obviously evident when we consider homework. Work set to be completed at home consolidates, builds upon and extends teaching and learning activities within the classroom. Beginning in the Foundation Stage with reading practice and the learning of “sight words”, we gradually develop both the type of work set and the quantity.

Special Educational Needs Any child may experience a learning difficulty of some kind during their time at school. These needs are generally catered for within the class with differentiated work and additional support. At Charles Darwin we work closely with parents and keep them fully informed of their child’s progress and how we are providing for his/her needs. We work closely with outside agencies; Speech and Language Therapists, Physical Therapists, Behavioural Support Team and the Educational Psychologist if we consider their input to be beneficial; Ofsted judged our use of outside agencies to support learning as “outstanding” in March 2011. Parents are fully involved in any decisions made or actions agreed. We aim to ensure that any child with special educational needs plays a full and active part in the life of the school. If any parent is concerned about their child’s progress they should speak to the class teacher, the Headteacher or Miss Jo Tilley, the Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator. As well as the expertise of Miss Tilley we also have a huge wealth of talent and experience throughout the school to enable us to provide finely tailored learning for children with SEN. Our Teaching Assistants have a vast knowledge of specific learning programmes in reading, spelling and writing and we also have a fully qualified teacher who is accredited by the national Every Child Counts Programme which provides one to one teaching in mathematics for children to address any needs they may have in this area.

Gifted and Talented Children Individuals who may have a particular aptitude or strength in an area of their education are also given additional support / challenge. Procedures are put in place to ensure that these children too receive educational activities which will allow them to fully develop their potential.

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Assessments and Tests Ongoing Assessment for Learning is an integral part of our teaching and learning process. Our timetabled assessment and target setting cycle ensures that the work of all pupils is judged each term to make sure they are making at least expected progress. Children for whom any issues or concerns arise are then provided with a programme of support and focussed teaching to make every effort to address their needs and get them back on track as quickly as possible. These assessment judgements are generally based upon the child’s regular classwork. In the summer term children in Year 1 take the national phonic screening test and those in Year 2 and Year 6 also take the national Standard Assessment Tasks, (SATs), in English and Mathematics. Parents are provided with information about these well in advance and then receive copies of their child’s results in addition to national comparative data. At Charles Darwin we make every effort to ensure that the tests are taken in a calm and relaxed atmosphere.

Results We are exceptionally proud of the progress and achievements of all of our children, who consistently exceed national results at all stages. The most up to date results can be viewed on our school website. Extra-Curricular Clubs We are very proud of the extensive range of after school clubs on offer to children of all ages and the participation rate is very high. Clubs change each half term. Educational Visits / First Hand Experiences Here at Charles Darwin we firmly believe that first hand experiences are vital to support the teaching and learning which goes on within the classroom and as such visits or visiting speakers are arranged for each new class topic wherever possible.

Residential visits We believe that residential visits provide an invaluable opportunity for children to experience new things and to develop their personal and social skills and independence. A progressive development of residential experiences is built into a child’s schooling incorporating more challenging activities as they move through the school.

Charging Policy At times Charles Darwin Community Primary School will ask for a financial contribution towards the cost of some activities which occur in school, for example visiting authors or artists, and also towards educational or residential visits or activities such as swimming. Such excursions can exert a powerful influence on your child’s learning and as such parental support is always valued and appreciated. No child will ever be denied the opportunity to go on a trip through a lack of parental contribution but if there is insufficient income then unfortunately a trip would have to be cancelled for all. *See Charging policy for information about bursaries and more details.

After School Provision Charles Darwin Primary School has an arrangement with a local before and after school provider, Kidzone. This Company provides excellent activities for our children at their premises nearby from 8.00am – 8.50am and from 3.15pm - 6.00pm. Kidzone also provide holiday clubs. Please contact Alison Hancock for further information on 01606 872101 or 07740 853539

Pre-School Provision We have superb links with The Beagle Pre-School which is located within the school grounds and is independently owned by Mr & Mrs Ledger of Acorns Childcare. Please telephone them directly on 07963 853304 or alternatively contact the school office.

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Parental Involvement It is our belief that the education of your child should be a partnership between the home and the school: Ofsted judged our engagement with parents and carers as “outstanding” and we recognise that effective communication is vital. You were your child’s first teacher and you know your child better than anyone. All parents and children are asked to discuss, (in appropriate terms), and then sign our home/school agreement. One copy is then to be retained by you and the other returned to school. The document sets out what the school will do and what we expect of children and parents. We hope that parents will support the school in all areas, for example; regular punctual attendance, the completion of homework and adherence to school rules. At the beginning of every topic information is sent home to parents detailing the areas of the curriculum to be studied, in order that parents may provide support at home. Children’s individual targets are also sent home each term in order that parents may assist with priorities Parental support in school is warmly welcomed; if you have any spare time we would love to see you in school, simply contact your child’s teacher or myself. At various times we run parent workshops on aspects of the school curriculum which we hope provide valuable information as to how subjects are taught in school and how you may assist and support your child at home. We are also proud of our relationship with the North West Family Learning Alliance and act as host and venue for their popular courses for parents; courses offered recently include Family Literacy, Family Numeracy, Family ICT, Science Fun and Family Finance. A crèche is provided free of charge for these courses.

Parent/Teacher Evenings In the Autumn term parents are invited into school to meet with their child’s teacher to discuss the settling in process and any other issues arising. In the second part of the Spring term a further parent teacher consultation is available for all parents. Towards the end of the Summer term all parents receive a detailed written report on their child’s progress and attitude throughout the year, and a follow-up appointment may be made if desired. Parents are always welcome in school to discuss any queries or concerns. At the beginning of the school day however, teachers are naturally busy and involved with preparation or with the children in their class and so, unless it is a matter of urgency, it is generally better to make an appointment for a mutually convenient time.

Friends of the School Association The staff and pupils at Charles Darwin are grateful for the huge contribution made to the school by FOTSA. The Association holds meetings, fundraising events and fun events throughout the year and has contributed significantly towards the purchase of wide ranging equipment and facilities. If you wish to get involved please speak to Adam Croft who will put you in touch with the Chair. You will be made very welcome at the next meeting and new ideas are always welcomed. Above all FOTSA hopes you will support their activities which are generated in the interest of the pupils of the school.

Newsletters Our newsletters provide a regular means of contact with home and mean that parents and carers are kept up to date with all manner of school events. It is our school policy to email all correspondence (paper copies are sent home with the child for families without internet access). If a child is absent on the day a letter is sent out, a copy will be retained in the classroom. Newsletters are also posted on the school website.

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The School Governors The Governors are a group of people representing different parts of the community and they have a statutory responsibility for the overall running of the school. Miss D Glimond, Chair of Governors (Co-opted) Mrs C Creager Vice-chair of Governors (Co-opted) Mrs E Tomlinson (Parent) Mr A Jones (Parent) Mr B Hadfield (Co-opted) Mrs V Melnyczuk (Co-opted) Mrs E Hynes (Staff) Mrs S Gray (Local Authority) Mrs G Maguire (Co-opted) Governors make decisions about how the school is run. They meet at least once a term as a full body and more frequently, in committees, to deal with specific issues. Governors have legal duties, powers and responsibilities including issues relating to the school premises, budget, personnel, curriculum and disciplinary procedures.

Comments, Queries, Concerns or Complaints Should you have a query, concern or complaint then we would like you to get in touch as soon as possible in order that we can make every effort to address it.

Arrange to meet with your child’s class teacher to discuss the concern.

Make an appointment with Mrs Bennett (Deputy Head) / Miss J Tilley Assistant Head / Head of Infants or Adam Croft (Headteacher).

If the above process has been followed and you are still dissatisfied then your complaint should be made in writing and addressed to the Chair of Governors

Contact Details: School Telephone: 01606 75194 School Fax: 01606 784143 School e-mail: admin@charlesdarwin.cheshire.sch.uk Headteacher: Mr Adam Croft Chair of Governors: Miss Debbie Glimond