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Eaton Primary School Parents & Carers’ Handbook
Eaton Primary School
Parents & Carers’ Handbook
2013/14
Eaton Primary School
Contents
1) Introduction to our school2) Letter from the Headteacher3) Letter from Chair of Governors4) Governing Body Details 5) Vision & Values6) Our Staff7) Welcome to Parents and Carers8) Before & After School Club9) Community Links10)The School Day11)Admission Procedures12)Term Dates13)Attendance &Taking Time Off School14)Home School Communication15)Special Educational Needs16)Accessibility Plan17)Disability, Race and Genders Equality Scheme18)Attitudes & Behaviour19)Uniform20)Charging Policy21)Snacks and Lunches22)Child Protection23)Class Organisation24)Our Curriculum25)Home Learning and Support for Parents and Carers26)Home - School Agreement27)Extra Curricular Activities28)Achievement Tables29)Complaints Procedure30)Parent & Teacher Association
Eaton Primary School
Purtingay CloseEaton, NorwichNR4 6HTel/Fax: 01603 502454Email : [email protected] www.eatonprimary.co.uk
Headteacher: Steven PortasChair of Governors: Thomas Leverage
1. Introduction to our school
Eaton Primary School is situated in the residential outskirts of Norwich, within easy reach of the University of East Anglia, the John Innes Research Institute and the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital. It is essentially a neighbourhood school, but welcomes children from a wider area. Children may attend from reception to the end of year 6 (4-11 yrs old).
The school was built in 1971and was divided into a First School and Middle School, but joined to become Eaton Primary School in September 2007. The school enjoys extensive sports facilities, including an indoor swimming pool, large outside playing fields and two school halls. There is a wildlife garden, a spinney and pond and two hard play areas with some adventure play equipment. The inside space provides a new library, modern ICT facilities, offices and 12 classroom areas which are all equipped with interactive whiteboards. Our Ofsted report March 2012 noted the following
children in the early years make good progress and almost all reach above the expected levels, children’s attainment in English is above average and significantly above average in reading and
writing progress for junior children, we are successful in securing better rates of progress for most pupils especially children with Special
Educational Needs.. the overwhelming majority of our children were found to behave well in lessons and had a positive
attitude to learning and this is continuing to improve, school leaders are having a positive impact on the quality of teaching and learning, good relationships exist between staff and children to support learning and interesting strategies are
used to motivate pupils, including creative use of resources, teachers’ subject knowledge is a strength as well as their good use of questioning to extend
children’s thinking, overall parents are more positive about our school and their relationship with us, governors are revitalised, committed, well organised and provide appropriate levels of support and
challenge for the school….more on our web site including the full report.
This handbook summarises a number of school policies and practices. These can be made available to Parents and Carers on request, as can minutes of governors’ meetings. Should you wish for copies to take away there is a small charge to cover the cost of photocopying.
Eaton Primary School
2. Letter from the Headteacher
Dear Parent, Carer or Visitor,
I feel incredibly lucky to be part of this school; the children, staff and school community are truly a pleasure to be with, learn with and work with. What is important to us is the feeling of being one happy family. Our school’s reputation and academic standards are all held in high esteem amongst the school community.
Our school is quite unique and we feel understandably proud to be part of the many families who are or have been at Eaton. We have excellent facilities such as our own swimming pool, large grounds, up to date ICT provision and lots of clubs. The school is in a really favorable location within an established village setting with strong community links. It has its own wonderful grounds whilst still being close to all the delights that are on our doorstep; the village and the countryside as well as the City of Norwich.
Everyone is fully behind our Eaton Promise which you can see on the front page of our web site or here in this document as well as our five key values; all of which we believe are central to our children's future success. There is a really strong sense of purpose here at Eaton Primary where all children are encouraged to become the best they can be. Eaton has an incredibly wide range of professional and experienced staff that really care and are dedicated to providing a rich and exciting place of learning. We strongly believe in nurturing every one as a whole person; their creativity, musicality and sporting talents as well as their academic potential. Our children start in the year they are 5 and progress through the primary range till they leave at 11 where many of our children go on to a range of high schools including Norwich High for Girls, The Norwich School, Wymondham High, and the City of Norwich School to name but a few.
Choosing where your child will learn and grow is very important and I welcome your decision to send your child to Eaton.
With best wishes,
Steve Portas
Eaton Primary School
3. Letter from Chair of Governors
It is with great pleasure and a sense of pride that I take this opportunity to welcome you and your child to Eaton Primary School.
Our school has a culture of excellence where we recognise the importance of nurturing every aspect of a child’s development. We celebrate our many and varied achievements throughout the year through a range of assemblies, performances, trips and fetes that bring together the whole community of pupils, parents and staff. Much of our success is brought about by the professionalism and dedication of the teaching staff and as a parent you can be assured that your child will receive an exciting balanced education which will allow each individual to achieve their full potential.
We are proud of our links with the wider school community and recognise the importance of listening to the voice of all stakeholders in the school. Pupils, parents, staff and governors alike benefit from the close links that have been established through partnership work and share the common vision of ensuring Eaton Primary remains at the forefront of Primary education in Norfolk.
At all times we welcome parental contribution to further invest in the educational experience of all children. I very much hope that you will take every opportunity to visit the school and experience the welcoming learning environment that you will be entrusting your child into and should you need to contact me over any issue, no matter how minor, you can do so via the main school office. I can assure you that, like all of the staff, I will endeavour to support your child to the very best of my abilities.
Thomas Leverage
4. Governing Body Details
List of School Governors for Eaton Primary School
Governors’ Names Position/ Committee/ Roles
Premises, People & Pounds = PPP committee Children, Community & Curriculum = CCC committee
Mrs. Rosalyn Earl Vice Chair/Community Governor/ Chair of CCCMr. Peter Johns Community Governor/ PPPMrs. Julie Sayer Community Governor/ CCCMr. Malcolm Lysons LA Governor/ PPPMrs. Emma Harrison Parent Governor/ CCCMr. John Kemp Parent Governor/ PPPMr. Tom Leverage Chair/Parent Governor/ CCCMr. David Stevens Vice Chair/Parent Governor/ PPPMs Helen Cummins Staff Governor/ PPPMrs. Alison Thompson Staff Governor/ CCCMr. Steve Portas Headteacher/Staff GovernorMs Nicola Tuck Clerk to Governors
Eaton Primary School
5. Vision & values
Everybody’s Rights
We believe everyone in school has the right:
to be safe to learn
to be treated with respect
to enjoy school
Eaton Primary School
It is everyone’s responsibility, staff, children, Parents and Carers, and community to keep these rights secure.
6. Our Staff
Headteacher: Mr S Portas
Administration:Mrs S Lubbock - School Support Manager Mrs C Taylor - SecretaryMrs D Kirkman - Administration AssistantMs C Limb - Receptionist
Teachers: Mr D Arthur – Y4 & Senior Teacher Mrs L Coy - YR & Senior Teacher
Mrs J Baker – Y5Mrs S Bateman - Y2Miss L Castling – Y1Mrs R Dorling – Y3Mr A Gardner – Y4Mr P Hamilton – Y5Mrs A Hipperson – Y4Ms C Hughston - YRMrs C Rushworth – Y2Ms Wood – Y1Mrs J Wells – Y6Mrs A Thompson – Y6Mr D Townsend – Y3Ms S Totterdale – Y2
Teaching Assistants:Mrs H CumminsMrs S DanesMrs L FowlerMrs E HarrisMrs V LovedayMs M McQueenMr I Potter Mrs D RobertsMrs S Stevens
Mrs L TedstillMrs Y ThompsonMrs J Tozer
Instructors:Mrs N CoxheadMrs K DentonMrs J Palmer
Site:Mr L Bunn - CaretakerMs T CollierMr B EarlMs C Riches
Extended School Club:Ms Tanya Phillips - Play LeaderMrs H CumminsMrs J SettleMs E Taylor
Midday Supervisory Assistants:Miss Curtis - Senior MSAMrs H CumminsMrs S DaynesMrs S GreenMrs C LeveridgeMrs D RobertsMrs J SettleMrs D SmithMs E TaylorMrs S Watling Mrs A Zoofishan
Kitchen Staff:Mrs M Hales - Cook in chargeMs V Chettleburgh Mrs J CoeMs K FrancisMs K Hindes
Eaton Primary School
7. Welcome Parents & Carers
We welcome visits from Parents and Carers who are considering sending their child to Eaton Primary School. We will endeavour to answer any questions you may have and give you time to look around the school. We are here to provide the best opportunities for all individuals and we wish to start forming good relationships from our first meeting.
We warmly encourage all new Parents and Carers to become involved in all aspects of school life by attending consultations, celebrations, concerts, Parent & Teacher Association (P.T.A) events and meetings.
By fostering good links between home and school we are all helping the children! You are also welcome to become one of our volunteers…please complete the on line questionnaire on our web site or call in at the office for more information.
8. Our Extended School - Crafticub Club
The school has an after school, breakfast and occasional holiday club which is based in the school building. The breakfast club opens at 7:30 each morning and after school club is open each day from 3.15pm to 6.00pm. Please contact the school office for further details and an information pack.
9. Community Links
We enjoy strong links with our local community. We arrange a wealth of visits so that our children explore the locality, broaden their experiences, meet people outside our school and give something in return to the community. These include:
Sports tournaments Theatre trips Field Study trips Music concerts Visits to City of Norwich High School. Museum visits.
Our children benefit from being involved with a variety of local people and visitors: Church clergy Tennis & Football coaches Foreign teachers/ visitors Students from local High Schools, City College and UEA. Governors visits Youth Workers Parents and Carers and PTA UEA hospital and college visitors
Eaton Primary School
10. The School Day
Morning Session: 8.50 am -12.15 pmPlaytime: 10.15 am -10.30 amLunchtime: 12.15 pm - 1.15 pm.Afternoon Session: 1.15 pm -3.15 pm
Children are allowed onto the school site from 8.40 am at the earliest. Children remain in the care of their Parents and Carers until then as there is no supervision provided before this time. Please do not encourage your child to wait in the playground too early before school. If it is needed your child can come to our breakfast club anytime after 7:30.
Children should be in class by 8.50 am. Registers are taken at 8.55 am. Lateness is marked if your child turns up 15 minutes after the start of each session morning or afternoon. At the end of the day teachers cannot be responsible for children after 3.30pm unless attending a school activity. To avoid upset, please let us know if you are unavoidably delayed in collecting your child by calling us.
Please be aware that the school car park is closed to Parents and Carers dropping off or collecting their children between 8:30 and 4:00 and the school gate will be locked at these times. Should you need to park and the barrier is down please use the intercom by the barrier. We encourage children to walk or cycle whenever possible. If you need to use a car, remember that you can always “Park and Stride”. By parking a short distance away and walking for the last few minutes you and your child can benefit from daily exercise! If your child wishes to cycle or scoot to school, they may be left, but should be locked during the day. We cannot be responsible for bicycles or scooters left on the premises should they be damaged or lost.
Dogs are not permitted on the premises due to health and safety reasons.
Eaton Primary School
11. Admissions Arrangements
We have a phased intake for all reception aged children, as we believe it is the best way for your child to settle in and allow them to enjoy their first few days at school. We have based this on sound practice seen throughout Norfolk. More information is available at the New Parents/ Carers’ meeting in June/ July.
These admissions arrangements:
encourage children to build up confidence and gives them time and space to absorb information and feel comfortable in their new environment.
allow staff to get to know individual children properly and to have time to talk to them.
allow parents to have a chance to talk to the staff and feel confident as a new member of our school community.
caters for children who will have had no experience of formal settings as well as those who have.
helps children adjust to the pupil teacher ratio which is much more favorable in pre-school settings.
Whilst it is accepted that reception aged children are entitled to receive full time education from the outset of the autumn term, by choosing Eaton you are accepting our school’s admissions arrangements to ensure that all children settle well into their new environment. However if you are not able to follow our arrangements, please write to the Head Teacher stating your reasons before 1st July. If there are more applications for places than there are places available, the local authority will give preference to children living nearest the school according to the following criteria in this order of priority:
1. Children with a statement of Special Educational Needs naming that school,2. Children who live within the designated area and have a brother or sister attending
the school at the time of their admission to school,3. Children who live outside the designated area and have a brother or sister attending
the school at the time of their admission,4. Children who live within the designated area and have no brother or sister attending
the school at the time of their admission,5. Children who live outside the designated area and have no brother or sister
attending the school at the time of their admission.
We welcome any interested parent or carer to make an appointment to come and visit Eaton Primary School or come to one of our Open Days in the Autumn Term. We will be happy to answer any queries you may have. An admission form should be completed and returned to the school to the address below. If your child is a new school entrant wanting to enter the Reception class, Parents and Carers should contact County Hall to register an interest in Eaton Primary:
Eaton Primary School
Admissions and Transfers, County Hall, Martineau Lane, Norwich, NR1 2DLTel: 0344 800 8001
www.norfolk.gov.uk/admissions
During May you will be informed if there is a space for your child and you and your child will be invited to school in the term preceding admittance.
12. Term Dates 2013/2014
Term Dates
Term 1 3 September 2013 – 25 October 2013
(3 & 4 September are inset days)
October holiday 28 October 2013 – 1 November 2013
Term 2 4 November 2013 – 20 December 2013
Christmas holiday 23 December 2013 – 3 January 2014
Term 3 6 January 2014 – 14 February 2014
(6 January is an inset day)
February holiday 17 February 2014 – 21 February 2014
Term 4 24 February 2014 – 4 April 2014
Easter holiday 7 April 2014 – 21 April 2014
Term 5 22 April 2104 – 23 May 2014
(22 April is an inset day, 5 May 2014 is a Bank holiday)
Late Spring holiday 26 May 2014 – 30 May 2014
Term 6 2 June 2014 – 23 July 2014
(26 June is an inset day)
13. Attendance & Taking time off school
Being in school is very important. Children cannot make time up easily and often feel upset. Each session i.e. a morning or an afternoon is counted and we report each child’s attendance percentage to you and the Local Authority. The average is 95% so anything below 90% is a concern and we would want to speak with parents and carers about how this can be improved. Obviously for sickness, high temperature and diarrhoea your child needs to get well before returning; health services recommend 48 hours after the last symptoms before coming back to school. If you wish to take your child out of school for any reason, you will need to complete a form which is available from the school office. The
Eaton Primary School
headteacher will consider each request for absence. Requests for absence may not always be granted and are very much based on the reason for the request as well as past attendance and achievement records. Requests for those children whose attendance falls below 95% will not be authorised. Holidays should be taken during official school breaks, not during term time if at all possible. No in-term holiday requests will be authorised. Children in years 2 and 6 will take statutory tests during May/June and therefore requests for this period will not be granted. Children’s attendance is recognised in end of term assemblies with certificates for those with good or above (98%+) as well as those with improved attendance.
Absence Rate whole school 2012-13 = 96% National average 95.6%
14. Home School Communication
After your child has been admitted to school we hold a ‘meet your teacher’ session in the first few weeks of the new term. We then hold a home school consultation in the Autumn, Spring and Summer terms. This provides an opportunity to discuss children’s work and progress with the class teacher. Prior to this you will receive an interim written report to bring along and discuss. We also provide an annual written report. However if you have any questions or concerns about your child, please come to us. The best way to do this is by making an appointment via the school office. However most staff can see you after the school day, but note Wednesday is staff meeting day. Before school begins can be tricky for everyone and you are welcome to leave a note in the office, call, email or write in your child’s Learning Journal/ Log.
15. Special Educational Needs
It is very important to us that our school is recognised as an inclusive learning community where each child matters. We understand that all children face times when they may experience difficulties in their learning. We are also very aware that for some children these difficulties are longer term and will require more significant and structured help during their time at school. For example, children who experience learning difficulties, or those who are judged to be very able, may be withdrawn from their classes for work with either a teacher or a teaching assistant.
National statistics show that about 20% of all children may be placed on the Special Needs Register at some time during their school life, and need to have Individual Education Plans (IEPs) written for them. This may happen when a teacher and/or parent/ carer are concerned about a child’s progress. As soon as a child has caught up, they will be taken off the Register. While a child is identified as having special educational needs the school intervenes and this is known as ‘School Action’ and where external agencies or support is required this is known as ‘School Action Plus’.
School ActionSchool action involves the school writing IEPs and using their own strategies and resources to help the child.
School Action PlusThis is the next stage up when outside agencies are needed to help the child. If it is felt that formal assessment is needed, a request can be submitted to the School Support Team. Occasionally a formal Statement is required and the child is then issued with a
Eaton Primary School
statement of need. Parents and Carers are consulted at all stages so they, and the school, can work together.
The Coordinator of SEN is Mr D. TownsendThe Governor with responsibility for SEN: please see Governor able above.
Gifted and TalentedWe are committed to providing a rich, inclusive, personalised and challenging curriculum for all our learners; one that promotes the highest standards and encourages each and every individual to achieve their highest potential. Gifted and talented pupils are those who are achieving, or who have the potential to achieve at a level substantially beyond the rest of their peer group.
We use as many sources of information as possible to effectively identify gifted and talented children.
Research has shown that the creation of a supportive classroom ethos is a key element in all effective teaching and learning. We try to create effective classrooms for gifted and talented pupils by providing:
Self direction with independence Opportunities to be involved in group work with others of similar ability Enrichment and extension work across the curriculum Teaching skills for independent learning
16. Accessibility Plan
The school has an accessibility plan in place. The plan is reviewed annually and takes account of the needs of pupils and other users with physical difficulties and sensory impairments when planning and undertaking improvements and refurbishments of the site and premises.
17. Disability, Race and Gender Equality
The school operates a single Equality Scheme, covering race, disability and gender from which we plan to actively promote equality, which is reviewed annually.
18. Attitudes & Behaviour
High standards of behaviour are expected and encouraged at all times. Pupils are expected to develop self-discipline and learn from the positive role models provided by the staff, Parents and Carers and other children.
Children are encouraged to discuss ways of behaving and how to show consideration for others, as well as have regard for their own and others’ safety.
We believe in praising positive behaviour but if a child behaves in an unacceptable way they are shown how to improve. In cases of repeated poor behaviour then sanctions are taken e.g. missed playtimes, short detention at lunch-times, loss of privileges etc.
Eaton Primary School
Any form of racist/ homophobic behaviour is unacceptable and not tolerated and will be dealt with according to our Racist/ Homophobic Incident reporting policy.
Parents and Carers are always contacted in cases of continuous poor behaviour so that teachers and Parents and Carers can discuss a way forward together. By signing our Home School Agreement you are committing to support our approach to behaviour to encourage children to be considerate, tolerant and respectful to others.In extreme cases of poor behaviour, after consultation with Parents and Carers and governors, the Headteacher may exclude a child from school for a fixed term or permanent exclusion basis.
19. Uniform
How children present themselves is very important to us all. We have provided the following to help parents and carers be clear about our expectations for uniform. The vast majority is available through many retail outlets, but the Governing body expect all children to comply with the school top available from the School Wear Centre (details below). PLEASE make sure ALL items of clothing are labelled. Lost property is dealt with in each year group.
Upper wear: Round-neck burgundy sweatshirt and/or sweatshirt cardigan with logo from the School Wear Centre, A white collared top. These can be purchased from any supplier and may be polo top, shirt or blouse, long or short sleeve, with or without a logo.
Lower wear:Charcoal grey only for trousers, shorts, pinafores and skirts purchased from any supplier,Summer dress: red gingham only purchased from any supplier,School shoes: black shoes only to wear to/at/from school purchased from any supplier – no open toed shoes/ sandals (change of shoes to trainers is optional for those wishing to go on the field during the wet months)Socks/tights: grey tights and grey or white socks.
P.E.White t-shirt only - purchased from any supplier – no logo required, Black PE shorts only - purchased from any supplier,Footwear: trainers purchased from any supplier but no flashing lights/ wheels. (Plimsoles do not provide the support required)Swimwear: one piece for girls and trunks (not baggy) for the boys purchased from any supplier. Own towel,Swimming hat any colour available through the school and any colour,PE bag and swim bag: optional burgundy logo draw string bag from SWC. Any other drawstring bag acceptable to hang on pegs to keep cloakrooms tidy, PE Tracksuit: black/grey bottoms and top purchased from any supplier.
Accessories:
Eaton Primary School
Sunhat: optional burgundy peaked hat but any other hat acceptable.Book bag: Burgundy logo book bag.Rucksack: optional burgundy SWC rucksack but any other rucksack acceptable.Hair accessories: plain or gingham to match uniform.Jewelry: watch only on wrist, gold/silver studs only to be removed by child for P.E. No necklaces, bracelets, tattoos, nail varnish. Travel items: reflective badges/sashes being worn on outer garments to allow safer travel to/from school.
More information from the Schoolwear Centre, 67 Ber Street, Norwich, NR1 3ADTel: 01603 [email protected]
20. Charging Policy
Eaton Primary School, in accordance with regulations, may invite Parents and Carers to make a voluntary contribution towards activities within school that require a financial outlay. This may include visiting theatres or musicians, cooking activities, trips to places of interest and workshops to support curriculum topics. Parents and Carers will receive advance notice of such activities and no child will be excluded from an activity if Parents and Carers decline to make a contribution. However activities may be cancelled if insufficient contributions are received.
Older children wishing to learn to play an instrument in school through the peripatetic music service will be invited to pay a termly fee in advance. In addition they will be asked to pay for their own instrument hire and exam fees. Details of these are available on request.
21. School Lunches & Snacks
The younger children (Reception to end of Year 2) receive a free piece of fruit on a daily basis. Each child is encouraged to have a labelled water bottle available in class to drink as required. Older children may bring a healthy snack on a daily basis or purchase one from our snack trolley. We are most fortunate in having a kitchen on site where a midday meal is cooked. The kitchen staff are contracted to cook for the school. Children may purchase a hot school lunch or bring a packed lunch.There is a set menu with a choice of three dishes one of which is a baked potato option. School lunches do not have to be taken every day, but payments for meals should be made in advance either on a weekly, half termly or termly basis not daily. Payments, preferably by cheque made payable to Eaton Primary School, should be sent to the school office in a sealed envelope clearly marked with the child’s name and class. There is a black post box in the entrance for your convenience. Parents and Carers receive a copy of a Winter and Summer menus each year. Meals cost £2.10.
Free School Meals – You can help bring money into school even if you don’t take up the opportunity if you are eligible. If you think you may be entitled, please do not hesitate to ask for an application form from the school office, this is dealt with in the strictest confidence.
Eaton Primary School
Children who have a packed lunch should bring them in a suitable named container. The lunch boxes are kept in a specified storage area until lunchtime. Please ensure drink containers are securely closed to avoid leakages. Any food not eaten by the child will be sent home in their lunch boxes so that Parents and Carers are aware of what their child has or has not eaten.
We encourage the children to eat a healthy diet and look to you to support us in this matter. Packets of sweets or chocolate are not suitable but small cereal bars, fresh fruit, dried fruit or fruit flakes are encouraged.
22. Child Protection
The school has a Safeguarding Policy. This school is committed to promoting the health and welfare of all its pupils. We are required by law to follow set procedures laid down by the Norfolk Area Child Protection Committee if we see signs that one of our pupils may have been the victim of possible abuse. Use of the procedures in this way is an obligation placed on the school and in no way infers that any parent or carer is accused of any wrong doing. The staff responsible for this are Mr Portas and Mrs Coy.
24. Class Organisation
Our school is currently organised into 12 classes, situated in 3 double-sized rooms and 6 single classrooms. Each class has a full-time teacher or equivalent, who is responsible for the children’s learning and well being.
Our classrooms reflect the needs of the children, who have a wide range of abilities and backgrounds. The children work in a variety of ways, individually, in small groups or as a whole class. Occasionally children will work with specialised help.
25. Our Curriculum & the National Curriculum
There are 3 stages for different under 11 years age groups. At the end of each stage, teacher assessments are made and these together with task and test results are used to inform Parents and Carers about their child’s progress.
Pupil Ages Year Groups
Foundation Stage/ Early Years 4 to 5 ReceptionPrimary Key Stage 1 5 to 7 1 and 2School Key Stage 2 7 to 11 3 to 6
High Key Stage 3 11 to 14 7 to 9School Key Stage 4 14 to 16 10 to 11
The National Curriculum sets out what children should learn in each Key Stage. It also gives the criteria by which children are assessed.
* * * * *
At Eaton Primary School, children are assessed termly in Reading, Writing and Maths. Level are reported to Parents and Carers in July each year in the annual report.
Eaton Primary School
The school expects most children to achieve the following (or higher).
6 points in most areas of The Foundation Stage1b at the end of Year 12b at the end of Year 23b at the end of Year 44(b) at the end of Year 6
* * * * *Our curriculum is made up of the following areas:
Foundation Stage (Reception class): Communication, Language and Literacy Mathematical Development Creative Development Physical Development Personal and Social Development Knowledge and Understanding of the
World
Key Stage 1 and 2 (year groups 1-6)
Core Subjects: English (Literacy) is taught via our Read Write Inc programme. Mathematics (Numeracy) Science Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
Foundation Subjects: Design and Technology History Geography Art and Design Music Physical Education Religious Education
In addition to this the school teaches Spanish in years 3-4 French in year 5-6 and Personal Health and Social Education (PHSE) throughout the school.
The Foundation Stage Curriculum
The Foundation Stage is the early curriculum that supports children’s learning from 3 years old until the end of Reception. Well planned play is central to learning in the Foundation Stage and supports the following areas of development:
Personal, Social and Emotional Communication, Language and Literacy Mathematical Development
Eaton Primary School
Knowledge and Understanding of the World Physical development Creative development
Each area has learning goals, which we hope that children will achieve by the end of their Reception year. All children are different, so their rates of progress may vary. Staff take this into account when they plan activities and experiences. Your child’s progress in achieving these goals will be discussed with you at parent interviews.
Many of the activities planned may include skills and concepts from more than one area of development. For example a class plan “Going on a Bear Hunt” may help to develop language and literacy, maths skills, physical skills and knowledge and understanding of the world. Adults will support children’s learning through play and exploration, both indoors and outdoors. Reception have a fenced outside play area with a canopy allowing all year round access.
English
English is taught as a separate subject through the daily Literacy Hour in accordance with the National Literacy Strategy. English is also developed in other subject areas.
Children are taught to listen and respond in a variety of situations – small groups, the whole class, the whole school etc.
Reading is given a high priority in the school, with our own well stocked Library to which the children have unlimited access. Beginner readers are taught to recognise the sounds and blend them together to make words. Comprehension is developed throughout the school. In the Foundation Stage and Key Stage 1 teachers aim to hear the child read at least once a week. In Key Stage 2 children’s reading is monitored through a weekly reading record and via group reading activities. The children are encouraged to take their reading book home each day to read with their Parents and Carers. They are also encouraged to take home library books. The support and encouragement of Parents and Carers in helping their children to read and enjoy books is welcomed and valued.
Children are also taught the skills of writing, including spelling, handwriting and writing for a variety of purposes. Children often have spellings to learn at home.
Mathematics
Maths within the school follows the National Numeracy Strategy and is taught mainly through the daily Numeracy lesson although opportunity is also given through other curriculum areas to develop the use of maths. We aim to develop mathematical knowledge, skills and understanding in the areas of number, shape and space and measures. ICT has become increasingly important in the teaching and learning of the subject, particularly in topics such as data handling. Appropriate practical work and problem solving also supports mathematical development and helps it to be seen in a wide context.
Eaton Primary School
Science
Science is taught through a class topic, each half term, in the Foundation Stage and Key Stage 1 and through specific schemes of work at Key Stage 2. If possible, children are encouraged to learn through first hand experience, with the skills needed for investigations encouraged and emphasised. The children regularly go on field trips and make full use of the school grounds, which contain a spinney, wildlife area and pond for environmental and nature work.
History
In this subject we aim to foster an awareness of the past and the ways in which it differs from today.
It is specifically timetable but usually taught in various topic areas such as World War II, The Tudors, Victorians, Ancient Egypt etc.
Children are encouraged to use primary sources of information such as families, old objects, photographs, local features etc as well as secondary sources such as books, newspapers and the internet.
Geography
In Reception this subject is covered within Knowledge and Understanding of the World as set out in the Foundation Stage Profile. In Key Stage 1, skills in drawing and using maps are developed. The children begin to compare and contrast areas of the UK and the World. Geography is usually
taught as a class topic.
Key Stage 2 Geography becomes more subject and skills based, but links with some class topics.
Art
The children are encouraged to experiment and work imaginatively using a wide range of media. They study a variety of modern and classic art and are introduced to a range of techniques used by many well known artists. During KS2 they are encouraged to view their own work and others and give constructive comments to develop the art work. Art work is displayed throughout the school. The nearby Sainsbury Centre for Arts at the UEA and The Castle Museum resources are often used to enrich the curriculum.
Design Technology
Eaton Primary School
Children design and make a variety of products for a number of purposes. Specific skills and use of equipment are taught to encourage confidence in practice, safety of use and thought in design. Materials used include paper, card, plastics, textiles, wood, wool, clay and construction kits. Food technology is also taught and a variety of workshop days are used in KS2 using the expertise of local businesses. Links with art and science are encouraged through projects involving control using electrical circuits, hydraulics and knowledge of forces and ICT skills.
Physical Education
All children take part in the following P.E. activities:
Gymnastics Games Dance Athletics
Key Stage 2 children also have outdoor orienteering and adventurous challenges.
Skills are progressively taught to encourage activity, co-ordination, self-discipline and confidence. We believe that this will develop an awareness and good future health.
There are good resources both inside and outside with 2 halls offering a range of large and small apparatus. Outside resources include a large field and hard playground areas.
There is also an indoor heated swimming pool. We aim for all children to have a regular swimming lesson with a qualified swimming teacher.
In addition there are various after school clubs which the children may choose to join offering a number of different activities.
Information & Communication Technology (ICT)
There are computers in every classroom with internet access. Children sign up to an Internet Agreement to use the internet appropriately. There are two sets of laptops which classes can use. Children have access to digital video and photographic equipment. All classrooms have interactive whiteboards and these form a key part of many lessons. Children learn to care for equipment and to use it competently. They learn to word process and publish, to handle data in databases and spreadsheets, to create and manipulate graphics and to control simple devices. The computer is seen as a cross-curricular tool and resource
Music
Children are taught to perform and compose music using a variety of instruments and their voices. They sing in class and in the daily Assemblies. Appreciation of a range of music is encouraged through listening to recorded music both in class and Assembly.
Eaton Primary School
The school has inherited a strong musical tradition and children are given many opportunities to perform before a wider audience. Eight peripatetic music teachers visit the school to provide tuition in many orchestral instruments. All children are offered the opportunity to learn an instrument, which approximately 2/3 of children take up. Violin tuition starts in Year 2 and all other instruments start in Year 3. There are a number of ensembles: recorder groups, wind band, string group and a choir. Instrumentalists and singers have, in the past, joined with children from other schools to take part in workshops and perform in concerts at venues in the city. Pupils also have the opportunity to attend concerts given by professional musicians.
Religious Education
Religious Education is taught in accordance with the Norfolk Agreed Syllabus. Children are introduced to aspects of various major religions, both learning about the religion and learning from the religion. They are encouraged to develop self -awareness, respect, self-esteem, responsibility and a positive attitude towards living in a society of diverse religions and beliefs.
Parents and Carers have the right to withdraw their children from Religious Education or Collective Worship. Please discuss the matter with the Head Teacher if you wish your child to be withdrawn. Children withdrawn from assembly are supervised by a classroom assistant or the school Secretary.
Collective Worship
An assembly is held each day led by a member of staff or visiting speaker. Assemblies are broadly of a Christian nature as well as an opportunity to share customs and festivals, the needs of others and the world around us. It is also an opportunity to celebrate achievements and special occasions.
Sex & Relationships Education (SRE)
The school’s policy for sex and relationships education is to establish a programme for sex education set in the context of personal, social, physical and intellectual development of the children and with due regard to considerations of morality, good health and the value of family life.
SRE forms part of our personal and social health education programme, which is about enabling children to know more about themselves and getting on with others, providing a basis for future responsibilities and experiences.
Parents and Carers may discuss any concerns they may have about this area of the curriculum with the class teacher. Parents and Carers have the right to withdraw their child/ren by making it known to the headteacher/ class teacher.
26. Home Learning and Support for Parents and Carers
Parents and Carers are asked to support and encourage their children and to provide appropriate time and space for them to do their homework. Home Learning is part of the partnership between Parents and Carers and the school, and forms part of the ‘home/school agreement’. Not only does it help to reinforce the learning achieved, but it helps you, as Parents and Carers or guardians to be aware of your child’s progress.
Eaton Primary School
We do not expect this to be a stressful experience or to detract from family life, therefore we recommend the following:
Year R 10min/day Share a book together, talking about the day, practising sound books.
Years 1 and 2 10min/day Regular reading aloud, practising sound and spellings, other literacy and number work.
Years 3 and 4 up to 15-20min/day Regular reading and number work with occasional assignments in other subjects.
Years 5 and 6 up to 30min/day Regular weekly schedule with continued emphasis on literacy and numeracy but also ranging widely over the curriculum.
Regular reading, whether alone for the able readers, or with a parent/carer for the younger or less able pupils, should be a daily feature of homework for all children. For older children this may form part of the 30 minute homework period.
Individual class teachers will inform Parents and Carers at the beginning of the year, the particular expectations for the class. Across the school home learning features in a booklet called a Learning Journal. There is more information on this in the front cover of this book and there is also termly information sent home and available on the school web site or VLE.
27. Home School Agreement
All schools are required to have a written home school agreement drawn up in consultation with Parents and Carers, governors and staff. This agreement explains the aims and values of the school and spells out the responsibilities of the school and your responsibilities as Parents and Carers as well as what the school expects of the children.
We firmly believe that children achieve more when schools and Parents and Carers work together. Your support and encouragement are vital if children are to fulfil their full potential. The agreements are sent out to all children new to school.
28. Extra Curricular Activities
We encourage the children to take part in as many extra curricular activities as possible.
A sample of clubs available is: Gardening, Tennis, Swimming, Korfball, Choir, French, ICT Club, Football – both Girls and Boys, Golf, Dancing, Music – we subscribe to Norfolk County Council’s Music Service which enables the children to learn to play most instruments as we believe this enhances children’s enjoyment of school and boosts academic achievement. Children learning instruments are also invited to join the
Eaton Primary School
orchestra, brass band and/or string group. We encourage children to enjoy both the personal and social and teamwork aspects of playing an instrument. We actively promote achievements made by the children and are very proud of the trophies that the children have strived to win. See our display in the entrance area.
29. Achievement Tables
Keystage 1 attainment and progressSchool National
2010 20112012
2010 2011 2012Result
Yr 1 Phonics (% Achieving Expected Level) 53 58
KS1 Reading (%L2+) 87 93 96 85 85 87
KS1 Reading (%L2b+) 74 75 78 72 74 76
KS1 Reading (%L3+) 28 14 29 26 26 27
KS1 Writing (%L2+) 87 93 95 81 81 83
KS1 Writing (%L2b+) 74 75 75 60 61 64
KS1 Writing (%L3+) 26 4 22 12 13 14
KS1 Maths (%L2+) 97 95 100 89 90 91
KS1 Maths (%L2b+) 85 79 86 73 74 76
KS1 Maths (%L3+) 28 4 15 20 20 22
Keystage 2 attainment and progressSchool National
2010 20112012
2010 2011 2012Result
KS2 English and Maths (%L4+) (2012 methodology changed) 77 84 73 74 79
KS1-2 % Expected Progress Eng (2012 methodology changed) 89 88 83 84 89
KS1-2 % Expected Progress Maths 81 91 82 83 87
KS1-2 % Above Expected Progress Eng (2012 methodology changed) 15 26
KS1-2 % Above Expected Progress Maths 35 28
KS2 English and Maths (%L5+) (2012 methodology changed) 35 32 23 21 27
KS2 English (%L4+) (2012 methodology changed) 84 84 80 82 85
KS2 English (%L5+) (2012 methodology changed) 51 38 33 29 38
KS2 Reading (%L4+) (test) 88 89 84 84 87
KS2 Reading (%L5+) (test) 61 54 50 43 48
KS2 Writing (%L4+) (TA from 2012) 83 81 71 75 81
KS2 Writing (%L5+) (TA from 2012) 33 30 21 20 28
KS2 Maths (%L4+) (test) 79 84 80 80 84
Eaton Primary School
KS2 Maths (%L5+) (test) 44 51 34 35 39
KS2 English TA (%L4+) 85 86 84 81 81 85
KS2 Maths TA (%L4+) 88 91 84 81 82 85
KS2 Science TA (%L4+) 94 84 81 85 85 86
30. Complaints Procedure
All schools in Norfolk want their pupils to be healthy, happy and safe, and to achieve. They recognise that Parents and Carers play an important part in making this happen. Cooperation between Parents and Carers, staff and governors leads to a shared sense of purpose and a good atmosphere in the school.
Each level of the procedure set out below offers the opportunity for concerns and complaints to be resolved as quickly as possible.
Level 1 – informal Parents and Carers should, in the first instance, make an appointment to speak to the class teacher or a head of year about the concern. It is best to resolve issues at this point.
Level 2 - informalParents and Carers, carers dissatisfied with the result of the discussions with the class teacher or head of year should ask for an appointment to meet with the headteacher or, in a larger school, a member of the leadership team, a deputy headteacher or assistant headteacher. If a resolution to the issue is proving difficult to find, the headteacher, a member of the leadership team, a deputy headteacher or assistant headteacher can speak to one member of the governing body about the issue who may be willing to offer informal intervention. However, there is no obligation on any governor to become involved at this level.
Level 3 – formal complaint letter to headteacher
An issue that has not been resolved through the informal levels 1 and 2 can become an official complaint.
Parents and Carers, carers or guardians wishing to move to level 3 must write a formal letter of complaint to the headteacher. The letter will need to set out clearly the issues which have previously been discussed and why the parent, carer or guardian considers the issue to be unresolved. Headteachers should consider the complaint and discuss a resolution with the complainant. The headteacher should offer a resolution to the complainant in writing within 10 school days of receipt of the letter.
Concerns or complaints specifically about the headteacher.
The decision that the headteacher has made as a result of the complaint does not become a complaint about the headteacher. If the complainant feels the complaint has not been resolved he/she should proceed to Level 4, a Governors’ Complaints Panel. If, the concern or complaint is specifically about the headteacher and is unable to be resolved at the informal stage, then it will be necessary for the complainant to formally complain to the Chair of Governors. The school will provide the Chair of Governor’s name and the complainant should write to him or her at the school address marking the envelope ‘urgent, private and confidential’. The Chair of Governors should acknowledge the complainant’s
Eaton Primary School
letter in writing within 5 school days of receipt and contact a Governor Support Service Officer for advice.
31. Eaton Primary Parent Teacher Association
Welcome to New Parents and Carers!
At Eaton Primary School we have a lively and committed PTA. Our main aim is to support the school and raise funds to help provide for the needs of present and future children in the school. In the past we have purchased a Trim Track which is very popular with the children. This year the PTA is working hard to purchase books for the new school library, outdoor equipment and audio/ lighting for the Performance Hall. The PTA runs regular events such as:
Spring and Summer fairs Children’s discos Easter and Christmas raffles Toy sales Cake sales Social events for the Parents and Carers
All Parents and Carers are warmly invited to come along to the meetings. These friendly informal evening meetings take place in school, when we discuss any ways we can support the children have extra opportunities. New ideas are always welcome. We try to make our fundraising fun and varied to attract everyone. We enjoy working together. More support means more success! By helping the PTA you are helping your children!
See more information from the link on the school web site www.eatonprimary.co.uk
