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Handbook 2017 -2018
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Handbook 2017 -2018
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Contents
Message from the Head Teacher .................................................................................................. 2
Vision, Values and Aims ................................................................................................................... 3
Centre Information............................................................................................................................. 4
Associated Primary Schools ............................................................................................................ 5
Family Centre Hours .......................................................................................................................... 6
School Holiday Arrangements 2016/2017 .................................................................................. 7
Campus Leadership Team .............................................................................................................. 8
Campus Early Learning and Childcare Team ............................................................................ 8
Campus Support Team ..................................................................................................................... 8
Family Centre Security ..................................................................................................................... 9
Attendance ........................................................................................................................................ 10
Administration of Medicines ......................................................................................................... 10
Care Inspectorate/Education Scotland .................................................................................... 11
Child Protection ................................................................................................................................ 11
Keeping our Children Safe and Well ........................................................................................... 12
GIRFEC (Getting it Right for Every Child) .................................................................................... 13
Admissions Policy ............................................................................................................................ 14
Deferred Entry.................................................................................................................................... 14
Enrolment ........................................................................................................................................... 15
Induction ............................................................................................................................................ 15
The Curriculum .................................................................................................................................. 16
Learning Journals ............................................................................................................................. 19
Outdoor Learning ............................................................................................................................. 19
Transitions ........................................................................................................................................... 20
Clothing and Footwear ................................................................................................................... 21
Pupil Groups ...................................................................................................................................... 22
Supporting our Young People ...................................................................................................... 23
Joint Support Team .......................................................................................................................... 23
Enquire ................................................................................................................................................ 24
Equal Opportunities and Social Justice ...................................................................................... 24
Family Centre Payments ................................................................................................................ 25
Centre Policies and Practical Information ................................................................................. 25
Home Links ......................................................................................................................................... 27
Community Links .............................................................................................................................. 27
Meal and Nutritional Guidance ................................................................................................... 28
Promoting Positive Behaviour ........................................................................................................ 29
Quality Circle Time .......................................................................................................................... 30
Equal Opportunities and Social Justice ..................................................................................... 31
Emergencies ...................................................................................................................................... 33
Complaints, Suggestions and Compliments ............................................................................. 34
Useful Contacts ................................................................................................................................. 35
Appendix – Links to Useful Websites ............................................................................................ 37
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Message from the Head Teacher
On behalf of the staff, parents and children of Neilston Primary and Madras
Family Centre, I would like to extend a warm welcome to you, your child or
children and your family. I hope that you will feel welcome in the campus and
that both you and your child will quickly feel part of our learning community.
Thank you for taking the time and trouble to enquire about our establishment.
Every day, in every child’s home, “on the floor” in our Family Centre, across
every lesson, in every classroom, all of our children and young people
encounter thought-provoking and stimulating experiences, for success in life,
learning and work.
Having both Neilston Primary and Madras Family Centre within the one
Campus, we are fortunate to be able to provide a seamless transition from
Early Years Education to Primary for our children. Building excellent partnerships
with our associated senior schools – Eastwood High School and St Luke’s High
School - ensures that the transition for our primary seven children is purposeful
and meaningful as they move on to their secondary education.
We are extremely proud of our campus which provides quality education to
meet the demands of our 21st century learners from the age of 2 – 12 year old.
We are also very proud of our children, our staff and parents who together
have created the positive, warm, welcoming ethos across our School and
Centre which permeates our successful establishment.
We make full use of the excellent facilities here and state of the art IT
equipment, to enhance our children’s learning experiences.
If you would like to visit our campus and meet the staff and children who make
our establishment a happy and successful learning environment, you would be
made most welcome. Please telephone the administration team to arrange a
visit. We all look forward to meeting you.
Yours sincerely
Mr Gerard Curley B.Ed (HONS), M.A.Ed
Head Teacher - Neilston Primary School & Madras Family Centre
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Vision, Values and Aims
Our Vision
At Madras Family Centre our vision is to be an outstanding, values-based
Centre that is at the heart of our community, striving for excellence. We strive
to enable our children to achieve their highest potential across the curriculum
and beyond. We want all of our young people to attain and achieve at the
highest level possible through excellent experiences and opportunities.
Our Values
At Madras Family Centre we value:
Understanding and knowledge.
Kindness towards everyone and everything.
Care and respect for oneself, others and the environment we live in.
Honesty, responsibility and good judgement.
Our Aims
At Madras Family Centre we aim to:
Provide a well-planned and balanced curriculum which links to national
and local guidelines.
Assist children to reach their potential in all aspects of their development
and learning.
Create learning opportunities that meet children’s needs and are well
structured, challenging and supportive.
Work in partnership with young children, parents, other agencies and the
community to ensure that every young person can become a successful
learner, a confident child, a responsible citizen and an effective contributor.
Provide a healthy learning environment that compliments the important
contribution of families and supports the development of healthy lifestyles
for children, parents and staff.
Provide a high quality, safe and well-resourced environment.
Provide a quality service through committed management and leadership.
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Centre Information
Madras Family Centre
43 High Street
Neilston
East Renfrewshire
G78 3HJ
Phone: 0141570 7540 (Family Centre)
0141570 7240 (School)
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: https://blogs.glowscotland.org.uk/er/Madras/
Twitter: @neilston_madras
Centre Description
Capacity: Morning 80 Children (3-5 year olds) and 15 (2 year olds)
Afternoon 80 Children (3-5 year olds) and 15 (2 year olds)
Total Capacity: 95 Morning and 95 Afternoon (190 Total Capacity)
The campus is multi-denominational and co-educational.
Children in the age range of 2-12 years are accommodated across the Family
Centre and Primary school.
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Associated Primary Schools
Although Madras Family Centre shares a campus with Neilston Primary we have
a cluster of three associated primary schools. The majority of our young people
will move on to one of our three associated primary schools. The details of
these schools are below:
Neilston Primary School
High Street
Neilston
G78 3HJ
Tel: 0141 577 7240
Head Teacher – Mr Gerard Curley
St Thomas’ Primary School
Broadlie Road
Neilston
G78 3ET
Tel: 0141 577 7420
Head Teacher – Mr Brendan Docherty
Uplawmoor Primary School
Tannoch Road
Uplawmoor
G78 4AD
Tel: 0141 577 7460
Head Teacher – Mrs Fiona McKay
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Family Centre Hours
Madras Family Centre is open throughout the year from 08.00am - 18.00pm
(including wraparound hours).
Centre opens 08.00am
Morning core sessions begin 08.50am
Morning (3 hour) sessions begin 09.00am
Morning session ends 12 noon
Lunch session begins 12 noon
Afternoon core sessions begin 12.50pm
Afternoon (3 hour) sessions begin 13.00pm
Afternoon sessions end 16.00pm
Centre closes 18.00pm
Children are entitled to 600 hours nursery provision. Sessions are allocated as
core, holiday, additional and extended hours to suit the differing needs of all
our families.
Wraparound for Session 2016 - 2017
East Renfrewshire Council offers a wraparound service to all children who
attend nursery, provided there are places available. Charges apply.
Before nursery session £4.60
Lunch session £4.60
One hour after the pm session £4.60
Two hours after the pm session £9.20
Contract blocks are as follows:
Block one August – September
Block two October – December
Block three January – March
Block four April – June
Please note:
Completion of the application form does not reserve or guarantee a place.
Places for each sessions are subject to availability and are allocated on a
first come first served basis, subject to which block you are due to start.
Invoices will be issued in advance of the service commencing. Bills should
be settled at the point of invoice in order to secure the service.
No amendments are able to be made to the contract during the block
although the contract can be terminated at any time.
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School Holiday Arrangements 2016/2017
TERM DATES OF ATTENDANCE
First Teachers return
In-Service
In-Service
Pupils return
Last day of school
September Weekend
September Weekend
Re-open
Last day of school
In-Service
Re-open
Last day of school
Thursday 11 August 2016
Thursday 11 August 2016
Friday 12 August 2016
Monday 15 August 2016
Thursday 22 September 2016
Friday 23 September 2016
Monday 26 September 2016
Tuesday 27 September 2016
Thursday 13 October 2016
Friday 14 October 2016
Monday 24 October 2016
Wednesday 21 December
2016
Second Re-open
Last day of school
In-Service
Mid Term
Mid Term
Mid Term
Re-open
Last day of school
Thursday 5 January 2017
Thursday 9 February 2017
Friday 10 February 2017
Monday 13 February 2017
Tuesday 14 February 2017
Wednesday 15 February 2017
Thursday 16 February 2017
Friday 31 March 2017
Third Re-open
Last day of school
May Day Holiday
Re-open
Last day of school
May Weekend
May Weekend
In-Service
Re-open
Last day of school
Tuesday 18 April 2017
Friday 28 April 2017
Monday 1 May 2017
Tuesday 2 May 2017
Thursday 25 May 2017
Friday 26 May 2017
Monday 29 May 2017
Tuesday 30 May 2017
Wednesday 31 May 2017
Tuesday 27 June 2017
Good Friday 14th April 2017
Easter Monday 17th April 2017
Term time provision for Madras Family Centre has the same holidays as local
primary/secondary schools in East Renfrewshire. Holiday provision is available
during school holidays and we are open 50 weeks of the year.
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Campus Leadership Team
The Leadership Team, led by the Head Teacher, has the responsibility of
promoting and managing all aspects of learning and teaching across the
school and Family Centre.
Head Teacher Mr Gerard Curley B.Ed (Hons) M.A.Ed
Depute Head Teacher Mrs Rosemary Crossan M.A, PGCE, DIP SfL
Principal Teacher Mrs Linda Campbell
Principal Teacher (Acting) Family Centre Mrs Julie MacLaren B.Ed (Hons) Dip EE
Depute Head of Family Centre Mrs Julie Armstrong S.N.N.E.B, PDA Level 8
Depute Head of Family Centre Mrs Yvonne Crookshank S.N.N.E.B
Campus Early Learning and Childcare Team
Teacher Mrs Linda Murray B.Ed (Hons)
Senior Child Development Officer Mrs Natalie Dowsland S.N.N.E.B
Child Development Officer Miss Erin Carmichael HNC, BA
Mrs Michele Collins S.N.N.E.B
Mrs Jennifer McGrath S.N.N.E.B
Miss Kirsty Mitchell SVQ Level 3, PDA Level 8
Mrs Karen Robertson HNC
Campus Support Team
Office Manager (School) Mrs Geraldine Clarke
Senior Clerical Assistant (Family Centre) Ms Denise Elder
Clerical Assistant (School) Mrs Valerie Chisholm
Pupil Support Assistant (Family Centre) Mrs Alison Spencer
Janitor (School) Mr Alan Cuthbert
Facilities Officer / Cleaner Mrs Sheena Fleming
Janitor/ Cleaner (Family Centre) Mrs Michelle Wylie
Catering Manger Mrs Barbara Hamilton
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Family Centre Security
We are very aware of security in the Family Centre. The front door will remain
locked at all times and any visitor must buzz for entry to the building. Please
ensure that the main door is securely closed when you leave.
All Campus staff must wear a badge for identification and all students will be
expected to do so also.
Any visitor unknown to staff members must show evidence of identity
before entering the centre. Visitors will also be expected to enter their details
into the visitor’s book which is located in the entrance area of the centre.
It is expected that a responsible adult will bring your child to and from the
Family Centre. Parents and carers bringing and collecting children will be
expected to sign their child in and out on ar r ival and col lect ion -
sheets with details are positioned in each playroom.
In the interest of your child's safety, you should make a point of telling the
Head of Establishment/or Key Worker if he or she is to be collected by
someone not known to staff members. This is essential as children will not
be allowed to leave the Family Centre with someone unknown to staff.
Parents will be asked to record those regular contacts that they consent to
collecting their child. The centre will also ask for a password to be used in
an emergency when a new unrecorded contact is sent to collect your
child.
If your child is absent please notify the Family Centre as soon as possible
(by 9.15am or 1.15pm on date of absence).
On arrival at the centre each day, parents and carers are asked to remove
their child's outdoor clothing and ensure that they bring their child into their
playroom, entrusting them to the care of a staff member. Children begin
their day with free play. Not all children will want to play right away and
may just survey their surroundings from an area of the room.
Parents and carers are asked to legally park outside the centre. Please park
outwith the road safety markings/zigzags and avoid blocking residents’
driveways.
PLEASE ENSURE:
All doors and gates are securely closed behind you when you enter and exit
the campus; this includes the coloured gates within the campus grounds. The
safety of all children is of the utmost priority and this supports us with this.
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Attendance
Notification of Absence
Parents/carers are asked to inform the Family Centre directly by phone, e-mail
or in person, if their child is going to be absent from nursery.
If you fail to make contact with us you will receive a text message alerting you
to your child’s absence and requesting that you contact us immediately.
Failure to alert us to the absence will result in the centre making contact with
yourself or emergency contact numbers to ensure your child is safe at home.
When you contact us to report your child’s absence you should be prepared to
provide the following information:
Child’s name, class / group, teacher/key worker
Indicate the estimated length of non-attendance
Provide some detail of your child’s illness (this is required for infection control)
Please remember: it is YOUR responsibility to ensure that your contact details
and that your emergency contacts are kept up-to-date.
Attendance across the campus will be monitored by the Senior Leadership
Team monthly and we will make contact with parents/carers regarding
attendance and time keeping concerns if necessary.
Administration of Medicines
Children who require medication to be administered ( p rescription only)
must hand in a completed and signed ‘Administration of Medicines’
form. These forms can be obtained from our First Aider, Mrs Jennifer
McGrath.
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Care Inspectorate/Education Scotland
Early Years establishments are subject to inspection by the Care Inspectorate
as prescribed in the Regulation of Care (Scotland) Act 2001. All Early Years
establishments will have a joint inspection by the Care Inspectorate and
Education Scotland. In both cases, reports will be published and made
available to parents.
If you would like to see a copy of the establishment’s most recent inspection
report, please ask the Head of Establishment or view via the following link:
http://www.educationscotland.gov.uk/inspectionandreview/reports/school/index.asp
http://www.careinspectorate.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=76
44&Itemid=489
Child Protection
We take the care, welfare and protection of our children very seriously. We
believe all children have a right to feel safe within the centre, home and
community. Within our campus we strive to provide a safe, secure and
nurturing environment for our children, and promote inclusion and
achievement for all. All education staff have a statutory and professional
responsibility to take action if we have reason to believe a child is suffering, or is
at risk of abuse. Our child protection policy and procedure sets out what we
will do if we have reason to believe a child is being abused or is at risk of abuse,
either within the home or the community. These policies are designed to
ensure that children get the help they need when they need it.
Every staff member undergoes a minimum of one child protection training
activity every session. Many of our staff are more extensively trained in specific
areas of child protection to support and identify potential child protection
concerns. All education establishments in East Renfrewshire have
comprehensive pupil support systems in place and we work closely with our
partners in Social Work, Health and the Police. The centre operates a multi-
agency Joint Support Team to ensure that the best possible supports are
available to pupils when they need them.
If you wish any further information or a copy of the Centre’s policy, please
contact the Family Centre. If you wish to discuss this important matter further,
please make an appointment to see the Head Teacher. If you are worried or
know of a child who could be at risk of abuse or neglect please speak to the
Head Teacher, Principal Teacher or Depute Heads of Centre, or to a member
of staff at one of the following numbers:
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Barrhead Social Work Office 0141 577 8300
Clarkston Social Work Office 0141 577 4000
Strathclyde Policy Family Protection Unit 0141 532 4900
Standby Social Work Out of Hours 0800 811 505
Role of Staff
The role of staff is to be alert to the need to act in the best interests of children
and in co-operation with other key agencies in order to protect children from
harm and abuse. In circumstances where there are grounds for concern that a
child may have been abused staff will:
Observe
Report
Record and
Co-operate with Social Work and other relevant agencies such as police,
the Scottish Children’s Reporter, Administration and appropriate medical
personnel.
The Child Protection Co-ordinator for this Campus is:
Mr Gerard Curley, Head Teacher.
Protection of Children (Scotland) Act 2003
Parent helpers/volunteers regularly involved in the educational establishments
i.e. nurseries, schools etc. require to have a Disclosure Scotland check before
the parent helper/volunteer is allowed to assist on a regular basis in the
establishment.
Keeping our Children Safe and Well
Across the campus we take the care, welfare and protection of our
children very seriously. We believe all children have a right to feel safe
within the school/centre, home and community. They also have the right
to be listened to and to have matters treated in confidence. Involving
children and young people and upholding their rights is good practice
and builds trust with children, young people and their families.
We are a Rights Respecting campus (RRS) and our children’s rights are
embedded within the school ethos. More information on RRS can be found
at: http://www.unicef.org.uk/rights-respecting-schools/
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GIRFEC (Getting it Right for Every Child)
Getting it right for every child (GIRFEC) is the national approach aimed
at improving outcomes for all children and young people in Scotland.
GIRFEC is underpinned by the recognised need for shared principles and
values and a common language among practitioners who provide
services for children and families. It recognises the rights of children and
young people, focuses on developing and supporting wellbeing and
builds on the good practice evident in services across Scotland.
Well-being
The well-being of children and young people is at the heart of GIRFEC.
The approach uses eight areas of well-being in which children and young
people need to progress in order to do well now and in the future. These
eight areas are set in the context of the four capacities, which are at the
heart of Curriculum for Excellence. The eight indicators of well-being are:
Safe
Healthy
Achieving
Nurtured
Active
Respected
Responsible
Included
Further information and advice can be found on line at:
http://www.gov.scot/resource/0042/00423979.pdf
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Admissions Policy
Madras Family Centre is an integrated Family Centre for children aged 2 – 5
including those with additional support needs. After your child has been
allocated a place at our Centre by the local authority, we will contact you to
make arrangements for their enrolment and induction into nursery.
If your child is 2 years old an application form can be obtained from their local
Family Centre. This is returned as per 3 year old children; however, their
application will be discussed at a Local Admission Panel meeting before any
decision is made in regards to securing a place.
If your child is 3 years or over before the start of the school term in August they
will start at the Family Centre during the first weeks of the new term. Thereafter
children will start after their 3rd birthday. To make an application to any East
Renfrewshire pre-five establishments please contact:
Carol Duckett, 211 Main Street, Barrhead, G78 1XB – 0141 577 3288 or 0141 577
3265 or e-mail: [email protected]
All application forms and guidance notes along with admissions criteria can be
accessed online at: www.eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk/elc
Children who have been identified as having additional support needs will
have their admission discussed at a Pre-Five Resource Group (PRG) meeting.
This panel is chaired by an Educational Psychologist and attended by
appropriate Early Learning and Childcare staff.
Deferred Entry
Under current legislation in Scotland, parents/carers of children aged between
four and a half and five at the start of the school session (those with January or
February birthdays) have a choice about enrolling their child for primary
school. Children can start school before they are five or can defer their start
until the following August.
What must parent/carers do?
Register the child at the catchment area school, where there will be an
opportunity to indicate interest in deferring entry, during the period notified
in the local press.
Discuss the possibility of a deferred entry with a member of the Senior
Management Team in an Early Learning and Childcare establishment (if
attending).
If the child does not attend an Early Learning and Childcare establishment,
advice and an application form can be obtained from East Renfrewshire
Council.
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Enrolment
The Head Teacher will send confirmation of your child’s place at Madras in
May/June and whether they have been allocated either a morning or
afternoon place. At this point, you will be invited to enrol your child. Enrolment
usually takes place in the term prior to your child’s entry to the Family Centre.
In order for us to complete the necessary forms, it is essential that you bring the
following information with you:
Emergency contact - name, address and telephone number (minimum of 2).
Doctor’s name and telephone number.
Name of health visitor.
The name of the person who will usually be responsible for taking your child
to and from the nursery.
Your child’s birth certificate, this must be the original and a full version is
preferred.
Proof of your address e.g. council tax, mortgage, let/rent paperwork.
In addition to this factual information, we would like to know about the kind of
interests your child may have and we will ask you to complete an ‘All About
Me’ booklet to allow us to share this information with your child when they start
with us.
When your child begins at the Centre, he/she will not stay for a full session until
fully settled in. In some cases the child’s entry may be staggered and gradually
built up to 5 full sessions.
Please note that East Renfrewshire Council are currently reviewing educational
enrolment procedures. More information can be obtained by contacting the
Administration/Admissions team within the campus.
Induction
Prior to your child starting nursery:
Parents/carers will be invited to meet the Head Teacher/Principal Teacher
and other professionals associated with the Centre.
Have a home visit from a member of Madras Family Centre staff and a
member of the management team.
Join us at the centre for a ½ hour Book Bug session.
Come along and play for a short time during the normal nursery day.
Have a drop in meeting with a member of staff to check over all enrolment
information.
Children will be given a start date which will be on either a Tuesday or Thursday
for a one hour session. During this time children will have the opportunity to
take part in a book bug session and to play in the playroom. Parents must
remain in the building.
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Settling after this time will be individual to each child but they may have
reduced sessions to allow for settling. Due to health and safety parents of
children who are taking some time to settle may remain in the building but
outwith the playrooms. An area of the Centre will be used as a meeting place
for parents and children during this time. All children will have a named Child
Development Officer (Key Worker) but will play and learn with all staff within
the playroom. The Principal Teacher will manage, direct and support the
learning for all children. The teacher will lead all Child Development Officers in
the education of your child.
The Curriculum
Pre-Birth to Three: Positive Outcomes for Scotland’s Children and Families
Pre–Birth to three – Positive Outcomes for Scotland’s Children and
Families, replaces Birth to Three: Supporting our Youngest Children.
The national guidance acknowledges the significance of the period
before birth in terms of influencing children’s future outcomes and
reflects the principles and philosophy which underpin the Early Years
Framework and Curriculum for Excellence.
The guidance highlights the importance of attachment for young children
to their parents and carers. It emphasises that all adults working with
Scotland’s youngest children recognise that they have an important
role to play in implementing the Early Years Framework, through giving
all children the responsive care, support and respect which they need
and which they deserve.
There are nine features which support staff in implementing the four key
principles.
These are significant in ensuring children are supported in their early
development. These are; the role of staff, attachments, transitions,
observation, assessment and planning, partnership working, health &
wellbeing, Literacy and Numeracy, environment and play.
Children starting after their 2nd birthday will be supported by staff
using this guidance. When appropriate they will begin to be supported
through the experiences and outcomes outlined in a Curriculum for
Excellence 3-18.
The Right to be Me
Madras Family Centre recognises the importance of promoting the rights of
every child as laid down by the UN Convention ‘The Rights of the Child’. The emotional wellbeing of every child in our Centre will be recognised under
the following rights:
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The right to be part of a group
The right to be cared for
The right to be treated with respect
The right to a sense of wellbeing
The right to have someone to communicate with
The right to have time to learn
The right to be encouraged to use sensory language
The right to move
The right to explore and discover
The right to be in a safe environment
Curriculum for Excellence is the education system in Scotland. It includes early
years, schools, colleges and community learning from 3 to 18 and beyond.
Curriculum for Excellence (3 – 18)
The table below matches the five curriculum levels to stages of learning
generally applicable, with flexibility (for example, for young people who are
particularly able and/or have additional support needs).
Level Stage
Early The pre-school years and P1, or later for some.
First To the end of P4, but earlier or later for some.
Second To the end of P7, but earlier or later for some.
Third and
Fourth
S1 to S3, but earlier for some. The fourth level broadly equates to
Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework level 4.
The fourth level experiences and outcomes are intended to
provide possibilities for choice and young people's programmes
will not include all of the fourth level outcomes.
Senior
phase S4 to S6, and college or other means of study.
From pre-school to the end of S3 (3-15) young people will experience a broad
general education which is designed to enable each child or young person to
be a successful learner, a confident individual, a responsible citizen and an
effective contributor.
This broad general education will include all of the Experiences and Outcomes
across all curriculum areas up to and including the third level. Throughout all
learning, prime importance is given to literacy, numeracy and thinking skills;
skills for learning, life and work; an understanding of society, the world and
Scotland's place in it, and an active and healthy lifestyle.
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A range of teaching methods and contexts for learning are used, including
active and enterprising learning, which encourage young people to become
enquiring; learning across the curriculum which helps young people make links
between subjects, and learning outside classrooms in the outdoors and in the
community, which gives opportunities for learners to deepen their learning in
real-life contexts. Most learners will progress into the fourth level in many
aspects of their learning before the end of S3, laying strong foundations for
more specialised learning.
Information about how the curriculum is structured and curriculum planning –
http://www.educationscotland.gov.uk/thecurriculum/
Curriculum for Excellence emphasises that assessment is an integral part of
day-to-day teaching and learning. Learners’ progress will be closely monitored
by staff, who reflect with them on their strengths, learning needs, and next
steps, and take action based on this. Learners themselves will be increasingly
involved in this process as they develop the skills needed to be able to make
effective judgments on their own learning; skills that will be important to them
throughout life. Testing will continue to be part of the framework of assessment,
providing additional evidence of what learners know, understand, and are
able to do, and helping teachers plan learning experiences which are
motivating and challenging.
Young children naturally engage in play. Our learning and teaching is child
centred, and based on play experiences. Through the medium of play, we
seek to take forward children’s development and learning: and meet their
individual needs and interests. We encourage children to explore,
experiment, investigate, observe, listen, talk and think creatively.
Staff plan carefully, as a team, to ensure that the learning experiences we
provide for your child will stimulate their natural curiosity to ask questions, and
find solutions.
Our environment is organised with a view to providing children with the
highest quality of learning via a wide range of excellent activities and
resources.
The most important resource is the staff themselves. Their quality interactions
with your child are essential in ensuring that learning is consolidated; and that
children are always encouraged to make the next steps in learning.
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Our daily/weekly timetable includes:
Free Play
Large group activities
Small group activities
Snack time
Daily energetic physical play - outdoors
Music/drama time
Stories/rhymes
Circle time
In addition to this, your child will have the opportunity to make visits to various
places of interest in the local community and beyond. Also enjoy parties,
entertainers, and celebrate a wide range of special events throughout the
nursery year. They will also benefit from experiences in the School through
embedding Early Level Practice.
Learning Journals
A collection of key stages in your child’s development will be recorded
through children’s work, observations and photographs. These are selected by
children and staff to exemplify your child’s attainment and achievement in
the areas of Health & Well Being, Literacy and Numeracy. Children lead their
own Learning Journals and are given the opportunity to access these
independently, and to discuss their contents on a regular basis with staff and
parents/carers. We hope it is something which both you, and your child, will
enjoy sharing together. An opportunity to celebrate this progression will be
available during the year. The Learning Journal is an important transition tool for
children and there will be an opportunity for children to share this with their
receiving Primary School also.
Outdoor Learning
At Madras Family Centre we are committed to providing children with
energetic physical play throughout their time at nursery. Children use our
outdoor setting daily to learn and play, to develop their curiosity, imagination,
inquiry, team building, risky play, core physical literacy skills and many more.
Our children simply love the freedom of being outdoors, and we have a wide
range of natural resources which encourages children to run, jump, play,
balance, pedal and steer. Where possible we will accessing the whole
curriculum in our ‘outdoor playroom.’
We also make use of our local community as the children may go along to the
shops to buy food for snack time, or for a walk to the park or the primary
school, the library or to another community facility.
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Outside visits are planned with staff to child ratio and are well supervised by
staff and parents/carers as required. Outside play and visits help the children
become aware of personal and road safety. This is encouraged at all times.
Since our weather is unpredictable children should be appropriately
dressed for outdoor play at all times – remember it may be sunny AND cold
in Scotland. Children should have sun cream applied and a hat for hot
weather, and suitable footwear and clothing for wet and cold weather. Staff will
provide waterproof suits for children as required.
Transitions
Transitions from Home to the Family Centre
We provide a home to centre transition period; a member of the Senior
Leadership Team along with the Child Development Officer, who will have
responsibility for your child, will visit you at home. This allows for the positive
relationships between yourself, your child and centre staff to begin to be
developed in an environment that your child is familiar with. In addition to this
children, along with their parents, are invited along to enrolment. Whilst the SLT
speak with new parents, the Child Development Officers are working with the
children in the centre. This gives the children the opportunity to familiarise
themselves with the centre, each other and the staff. When beginning at
Madras Family Centre – children build up their time to facilitate them ‘getting
to know us’, their first few sessions at the centre may be only for an hour until
they settle in. This will be discussed and developed for and between you and
your child’s Key worker.
Transitions from Family Centre to Primary School
Transition from the Family Centre to Primary One is co-ordinated by the
Principal Teacher within the Family Centre. This will involve collaborating with
our P1 teacher(s) to make visits to the Family Centre prior to them starting
Primary One. The Principal Teacher will liaise with centre staff and develop a
smooth transition programme. This process involves:
Home visits
Visits to the child’s Early Learning and Childcare setting
Meeting with the child’s key worker
Inviting the child to induction days at their new school
Sharing of information e.g. Learning Journals, Summative Reports, Wellbeing
Plans.
Come and Play Days
Parent/carer and child lunch
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Delineation
Children from Madras Family Centre normally attend Neilston Primary,
Uplawmoor Primary or St Thomas Primary.
All secondary schools in East Renfrewshire are deemed to be delineated.
This means that a successful placing request made to an East
Renfrewshire primary school; either by those living within or outwith the
council boundary area does not guarantee progression to the associated
secondary school of that primary school. A further placing request will be
required at the point of secondary transfer and the normal rules pertaining
to considering placing requests will apply.
In these arrangements for admission to school, delineated areas for
denominational schools and non-denominational schools exist within East
Renfrewshire. Each school has a delineated area; each pupil will be
resident in the delineated area of both a non-denominational and
denominational school. In primary, parents will choose their sector, either
denominational or non-denominational. In secondary, pupils will
subsequently be guaranteed a place in their chosen sector. Transfer of
sector may only be done via a placing request.
Further information about placing requests for East Renfrewshire Schools
can be found by contacting the council offices on 0141 577 3287 or via
their website at: www.eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk.
Clothing and Footwear
We have a uniform which parents can purchase directly from the supplier,
please see the Family Centre Office for more information . This consists of a
red polo shirt and blue sweatshirt with the Family Centre emblem and
‘Madras Family Centre’ embroidered on both. There is no obligation for
parents to purchase the uniform, however, the uniform can give the children
a sense of ownership and identification with the Centre and also the need for
choice is diminished when getting ready for nursery!
Children have the best fun and learn most effectively when they are
being creative through play based and often messy experiences.
We shall always try to ensure that they wear aprons but accidents
happen so please dress your child in suitable clothing.
Please also make sure that your child has suitable outdoor clothing - hats,
scarves, gloves. We ask that all children have a pair of additional wellington
boots which are labelled and left in the Family Centre. Staff will provide
waterproof suits for children as required.
Parents/carers should note that the authority does not carry insurance to
cover the loss of such items and any claims submitted are likely to be met
only where the authority can be shown to have been negligent.
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With regard to physical play, it is important that children have appropriate
footwear for indoors and out. Trainers/soft shoes are best – it is important that
children are comfortable and safe. We do ask that children change their
shoes on entry to t h e F a m i l y C e n t r e , staff will assist them in changing
for outdoors but we also use this as an opportunity to develop self-help skills so
please support children in learning to put their shoes on independently.
Pupil Groups
Across our campus we foster a sense of citizenship through pupil participation
in a range of practical projects, local and national. We also co-operate in joint
ventures with St Thomas’ Primary and Uplawmoor Primary. Each year our
concerts entertain the community and our open days and sports’ days are also
a huge success.
The Family Centre has been awarded the investors in people award for
enterprise, Silver Family Friendly accreditation, 3 Green flags and now for Eco
schools our sustainable lifestyle Green Flag Award. All of which we are
extremely proud of.
All of our young people are involved in supporting charities throughout the
year.
We have a variety of Pupil Voice Groups. These are:
Pupil Council
Eco committee
Monitors
Junior Road Safety Officers
Fair Trade Committee
Our children have the opportunity to be involved in this wide variety of pupil
groups. Details of all these groups can be found on the school website. We
encourage our children to play an active role in their community by including
local studies in our social studies programme. Across the campus we have
regular visits from the local community Police and Health Service Staff. We also
enjoy close links with the Neilston Development Trust.
Many of our children participate in local events and take an active interest in
the local community and enjoy the activities of local groups. Through our work
on citizenship, we continue to build upon the strong links that already exist.
We actively seek opportunities for our Family Centre children to engage with
these pupil groups and have their ideas and opinions listened to also. Our P6
and P7 children within Neilston Primary School buddy up with our younger
learners and help them to be part of these groups.
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Pupil Council
Across the campus we have a very active Pupil Council, with
representatives of each class, as well as from the Family Centre, meeting
with a member of staff on a fortnightly basis. This forum offers our young
people the chance to raise issues of concern and for the whole campus
community to have a voice in the running of the campus. Our
representatives share responsibility for:
Campus fundraising
Charity awareness
Liaising with other Pupil Councils within the authority
Reporting to the Director of Education
Improvement Planning
Consultation on views of our pupils
Work co-operatively with parent council
Present to parents/carers at curriculum events
Supporting our Young People
In Madras Family Centre we advocate a nurturing approach. Nurturing
centres are inclusive in their attitudes, ethos and organisation, where
there is an environment which reflects that. It is our aim to help children
to develop their self-esteem; teach social skills such as turn-taking, sharing,
co-operating and appreciating the feelings of others; and the
development of language for communication.
Further information on inclusion can be found at:
http://www.ea.e-renfrew.sch.uk/curriculinks/Links/Teachers/inclusion.htm
Joint Support Team
The Family Centre very successfully operates Joint Support Team (JST) meetings
where a multi-agency approach is used to support children and their families.
The team of professionals includes the Principal Teacher, Depute Head of
Centre a member of staff, Educational Psychologist, Social Worker and Health
Visitor and other professionals also attend when necessary. From time to time,
children and families may experience difficulties such as behavioural
problems, bereavement, and change in circumstances etc. The centre is
able to offer a variety of support with the help of various agencies
ranging from health visitor, the educational psychologist to social work
involvement. Please contact the family centre staff if you require more
information about JST support.
The Family Centre’s Additional Support Needs (ASN) Co-ordinator is
responsible for assuring the whole centre approach and bringing together
the various elements of pupil support including pastoral, behavioural and
learning.
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Enquire
Enquire offer independent, confidential advice and information on additional
support for learning through:
a telephone helpline – 0845 123 2303
an email enquiry service – [email protected]
an online enquiry service
two websites www.enquire.org.uk (for parents/carers and practitioners)
and www.enquire.rog.uk/yp (for children and young people)
Enquire also provide a range of clear and easy-to-read guides and
factsheets explaining everything from ‘additional support in the early
years’ to ‘what planning should take place for moving on from school’.
Equal Opportunities and Social Justice
East Renfrewshire Council Education Department is committed to ensuring
equality, equity and fairness for all. It has a specific duty to gather
information on the effect of policies and practices on the education
opportunities available to disabled pupils and on their achievements. It
also has this duty in relation to race and gender. It is for this reason that
pupils and their parents and carers may be asked to respond to questions,
which require them to share information that may be personal and
sensitive.
In accordance with the requirements set out by the Equalities and Human
Rights Commission, we seek to:
Eliminate unlawful discrimination, harassment and victimisation and
other conduct that is prohibited by the Equality Act 2012
Advance equality of opportunity between people who share a
relevant protected characteristic and those who do not
Foster good relations between people who share a protected
characteristic and those who do not
Madras Family Centre has clear guidelines and procedures for dealing
with incidents of inequality, as advised by the Education Department. We
encourage that any concerns be raised with us. Our Equalities Co-
ordinator is Mrs Julie MacLaren (Acting PT) and can be contacted by
emailing or phoning the school.
The Sen io r Lead er s h ip Team has responsibility for ensuring the
implementation of this policy. For further information or advice please
contact the school.
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Family Centre Payments
Parents/carers can make payments directly to the Family Centre Office,
however, as of February 2017 there will be the facility to pay for their child’s
excursions/visits, nursery fund, and snack online, via the council’s ParentPay
system.
http://www.eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk/pay4schools
The Payments 4 Schools service is part of a wider public service for
excellence programme, aimed at offering more services online. As well as
giving you access to services at a time that suits you, it will help to save
money.
Centre Policies and Practical Information
Parental Involvement
SCOTTISH SCHOOLS (Parental Involvement) Act 2006
Parent Councils were established in August 2007. The Parental
Involvement Act makes provision for all parents to be members of the
Parent Forum at a school, and to have their views represented to the
school, education authority and others, through a representative Parent
Council for the school.
Whilst this is not a requirement for our Family Centre, we actively encourage
any parents with children within the Family Centre who wish to be involved
in what happens across the campus including both the school and the
Family Centre to join our Parent Council. Contact a member of the Senior
Leadership Team for more information.
The Parent Council supports parental involvement in a much wider sense
than before. It aims to help all parents to be:
Involved with their child’s education and learning
Welcomed as active participants in the life of the school
Encouraged to express their views on school education generally and
work in partnership with the school
Across the campus we encourage parents/carers to become involved in
the education of their children. There are many ways of fostering such
participation and we are always ready to listen to new suggestions. At
present parental involvement includes the following:
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Regular newsletters and school website
Parental Helpful Hints leaflets
Curriculum news
Parent Council Constitution
Pupil reports
induction days for new young people and parents
Workshops to inform parents of curricular developments
Information meetings regarding school trips and excursions
Parent Council which supports campus developments and initiatives as
well as organising social and fundraising events. This is done through
their sub-group; Support Our School (SOS)
Correspondence regarding current issues including questionnaires
Meetings between parents and school staff and/or external agencies as
necessary
Twice yearly parents’ meetings
There are a whole range of policies and procedures linked to the curriculum,
child development, health and safety, and leadership. Copies of these policies
are available on request from a member of the Senior Leadership Team or by
contacting the Family Centre Senior Clerical Assistant.
PARENT COUNCIL
Parent Council
Chairperson: Mrs Natalie McMillan
Email: [email protected]
Fundraising Committee SOS – Support Our School
Chairperson: Mrs Jill Keys/Mr John Mullen
Email: [email protected]
There are a whole range of policies and procedures linked to the curriculum,
child development, health and safety, and leadership. Copies of these policies
are available on request from a member of the Senior Leadership Team or by
contacting the Family Centre Office Manager.
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Home Links
Staff will welcome you on your first visit to the Centre to enrol your child. An
invitation for you and your child to attend a short induction session at the
nursery will take place prior to your child’s starting date. We will ask you to
complete and return at home ‘All About Me’ Booklet which will help us to get
to know your child.
Invitations for you to visit the nursery for a wide range of meetings/events will
be made to parents/carers throughout the session. Events are highlighted in
termly newsletters and weekly parent sheets. These may include planned
parental visits, workshops, special events or home-lending schemes, to name
but a few! Termly/weekly newsletters will give specific information of days and
times. If there is a specific need or request for additional meetings, we will keep
you well informed.
Our Community Room has been established to allow staff to work with
parent/carers and the local community on a variety of joint ventures. Items of
interest to parents/carers are displayed in the entry corridor and corridor walls.
Planning information regarding children’s learning is displayed within your
child’s playroom and displays give an insight into how children gain skills though
play based experiences.
Community Links
Madras Family Centre plays an important role within the local community.
We strive to maintain close links with key agencies within the town; and
seek to develop these links wherever possible:
We actively encourage parental/community involvement e.g. through ECO
committee
We provide work experience for NC/HNC Education and Chi ldcare
Students ; secondary school pupils; student teachers and student nurses.
We have close links with Crossing patrol, Police, the Fire Service and Health
Visitor.
We make regular visits to places in the local community throughout the year
i.e. the library, Post Office, shops, local primary school, and park.
We involve ourselves in Community events
We involve the community, where possible in our yearly events e.g. Open
evening/Night at Nursery, Art evening.
We have close links with the local ‘Bank’ and routinely make use of this
resource.
We advertise local information/events within our nursery, and promote
events taking place in the nursery through the Local Press.
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Meal and Nutritional Guidance
Most children have a 3 hour or 3 hour 10 minute session at an Early Learning
and Childcare establishment, therefore meals are not provided. Some
children may attend on a full time basis and in those circumstances a meal
may be purchased.
Nutritional Guidelines for Early Years
We want to ensure that your child gets healthy and nutritious food while in
our care. It’s never too early to introduce children to a healthy diet and
once learnt, healthy habits can stick. This is why we are implementing,
Nutritional Guidance for Early Years; written by nutritionists and published
by the Scottish Executive. Some examples of daily snack are:
Whole milk – low fat and skimmed milk contains insufficient energy
and vitamins for
children aged 1-5
Fruit – apple, pear, bananas, grapes, melon, and citrus fruits
i.e. tangerines, clementines, oranges etc.
Crackers and cheese
Mini scotch pancakes with spread
The cost for your child to receive daily snack is £2 a week. This money
also contributes towards items such as Christmas parties/present, outings,
baking, skills for life experiences, and children’s choice. This can be paid
weekly at the Family Centre office or termly if you prefer. As Parent Pay is
introduced this can also be paid online through your child’s account.
Children will have the opportunities to have milk (provided free) or a drink of
water - and a healthy snack. The promotion of healthy eating will be
considered at all times. Special diets will be catered for where necessary.
Please consult with a member of Family Centre Leadership Team.
Children are encouraged to help with snack preparation both
individually, and for larger groups. We hope to provide a variety of snacks
throughout the year taking into account various festivals and celebrations.
Snack time provides an opportunity to socialise, share, co-operate, help
others and develop independence. Children finish by brushing their teeth,
as part of our very successful tooth brushing programme.
IMPORTANT – Madras Family Centre is a nut free zone
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Breast Feeding Friendly – Madras Family Centre is a Breast Feeding Friendly
Centre and we therefore aim to provide an atmosphere where
breastfeeding is encouraged, supported and protected. If you would like to
breastfeed your baby while in the centre a member of staff will be happy to
help make this a positive experience for you and your baby.
Promoting Positive Behaviour
Our positive behaviour policy reflects our campus values:
Respect
Honesty
Fairness
Trust
All of our young people are encouraged across the Family Centre
environment, to see themselves as part of the whole campus, with
responsibility of working towards the wellbeing of all its young people.
Our pupils are encouraged to give of their best, creating an
atmosphere, conducive to meaningful and purposeful learning and
teaching.
When teaching about rights we focus on the essential rights from which
all others spring. These rights we consider non-negotiable. Everyone has
the right:
To feel safe on the campus
To learn to the best of their ability
To be treated with dignity and respect
Children’s own self-discipline is important. Our young people are
encouraged to take pride in themselves and their campus. When out of
school on educational visits this pride should be reflected in their
manners, dress and attitude. We have received many positive
comments and letters, which assure us that our young people do in fact
behave in this manner.
We encourage this in the centre through:
Every child is unique in terms of their talents, interests and personality; and
we seek to nurture these important areas of your child’s development in
a positive manner. In the centre we aim to maintain a relaxed but
controlled atmosphere, where children and adults have mutual respect for
one another.
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We have an expectation that during their time at nursery children will
learn to understand, and follow our rules, and also operate within certain
boundaries. Working in partnership with parents/carers, we hope to build
on relationships and values your child has experienced at home.
Staff provide a good model of behaviour for children, and use praise and
encouragement to reinforce the importance of positive behaviour. Staff
are skilled in their approach to managing children and exhibiting
challenging behaviour. Any significant incidents would always be discussed
with parents/carers, in order to establish the nature of the behaviour(s); and
agreement reached on the best way forward for the child.
Staff actively encourage children to follow the Family Centre’s "Golden
Rules".
Care for our toys and tidy up
Be kind and share with others
Say please and thank you
Be a good listener and remember not to shout
Put rubbish in the bin
Walk indoors
Flush the toilet and wash your hands
During our initial circle time sessions, we introduce the ‘Golden Rules’. These
are regularly revisited in order to make children aware of their
responsibilities regarding their own behaviour, and their behaviour towards
others. The golden rules are displayed prominently in the playrooms.
In line with promoting positive behaviour children are given the
opportunity to take on roles of responsibility through our helpers system and
the opportunity to be a member of our Eco Committee.
Quality Circle Time
Circle Time sessions build on the promotion of positive behaviour within
our Family Centre. Key workers undertake circle time sessions with their
designated groups. These sessions are very specific in terms of providing
children with opportunities to discuss and practice good social skills in a
caring and secure setting. We focus on looking, listening, talking,
thinking and concentrating skill in each session.
Through a range of fun games and activities based on the above,
children begin to develop their overall confidence and self-esteem.
Circle time seeks to teach children respect for self, respect for others;
respect for our immediate and wider environment.
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Equal Opportunities and Social Justice
Madras Family Centre has clear guidelines and procedures for dealing
with incidents of inequality, as advised by the Education Department. It is
important that every individual is treated with equal respect, and can learn
and work in the knowledge that his/her contribution is valued,
irrespective of race, gender or disability. We seek to do this by:
Treating each child, parent, staff member as an individual.
Listening and talking to children, parents, the community and each
other as a staff team.
Planning curriculum activities to meet the needs of each individual child.
Providing resources which reflect and celebrate the wide diversity
of cultural influences, employment trends and needs, both physical
and economic of our constantly changing world.
Avoid stereotyping into traditional male/female roles – boys and
girls are encouraged to undertake a wide range of activities.
Promoting self- esteem through Circle Time, celebrating birthdays, the
arrival of new babies, ensuring that each child has his/her work
displayed throughout the year.
Keeping parents and visiting adults informed about further education
opportunities through the notice board.
Providing work experience placements for school pupils and further
education students.
The Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000; the Disability Discrimination
Act 2005 and the Gender Equality Act 2006 place the duty on public
bodies to promote racial equality and prevent racial discrimination.
East Renfrewshire Council Education Department is committed to
ensuring equality and fairness for all. In accordance with the requirements
set out by the Equalities and Human Rights Commission, we seek to:
Eliminate unlawful discrimination, harassment and victimisation and
other conduct that is prohibited by the Equality Act 2012
Advance equality of opportunity between people who share a
relevant protected characteristic and those who do not
Foster good relations between people who share a protected
characteristic and those who do not.
We encourage that any concerns be raised with us. Our Equalities
Co-ordinator is our teacher and can be contacted by email or by
telephoning the school.
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Anti-Bullying Policy
Our campus policy states that bullying is an unacceptable form of
behaviour through which an individual or group of individuals feel
threatened, abused or undermined by another individual. At Madras
Family Centre bullying is not an inevitable part of nursery life and each
individual has the right not to be bullied.
In our campus we develop a supportive framework in order to create
an environment in which bullying is unacceptable and all its
consequences are dealt with appropriately and promptly. Our aims are:
To establish an atmosphere in which mutual respect and tolerance
of an individual’s right not to be bullied, emotionally, verbally or
physically, will thrive.
To encourage pupils to take responsibility for their own freedom
from intimidation and the freedom of others in the same respect
To encourage a consistent approach and attitude by all adults
which creates an environment in which incidents can be dealt with
appropriately and promptly
To create an open atmosphere within the centre where our young
people can go to a variety of listeners for support
ERC Anti-Bullying Information for Parents
East Renfrewshire is committed to the Scottish Government’s vision of
anti-bullying.
“Every child and young person in Scotland will grow up free from
bullying and will develop respectful, responsible and confident
relationships with other children, young people and adults. Children
and young people, and their parents or carers, will have the skills and
resilience to prevent or respond to bullying. All children will expect help
and know who can help them; while those adults working with them
will follow a consistent and effective approach in dealing with and
preventing bullying from early years onwards.”
A National Approach to Anti-Bullying for Scotland’s Children and Young
People, Scottish Government, November 2010
When talking about bullying behaviour, we do not label children and
young people as ‘bullies’ or ‘victims’; instead, we talk about those
experiencing and those demonstrating or exhibiting bullying behaviour.
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Useful Websites
Respectme:
www.respectme.org.uk
Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOPs):
www.ceop.police.uk
Cyberbullying.org:
http://cyberbullying.org/
Get Safe Online:
http://www.getsafeonline.org/
Emergencies
We make every effort to maintain a full educational service but on
some occasions circumstances arise which lead to disruption. Schools
may be affected by severe weather, temporary interruption of
transport, power failure or difficulties of fuel supply. In such cases we
shall do all we can to let you know about the details of closure or re-
opening. We shall keep you in touch by using letters, text messages,
emails and through our own website, notices in local shops and
community centres, announcements in local churches and in the press
and on local radio.
Should you require any information about school closures please
refer to the school website, East Renfrewshire’s website or East
Renfrewshire’s Twitter feed.
Further information on emergency closure of schools and establishments
Severe Weather Conditions can be found at:
http://intranet.erc.insider/CHttpHandler.ashx?id=4193&p=0
Data Protection Act
Information on parents/carers is stored on a computer system and may
be used for teaching, registration, assessment and other administrative
duties.
The information is protected by the Data Protection Act (1984) and
may only be disclosed in accordance with the codes of practice.
For more information please contact the Family Centre office.
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Communicating With Parents/Carers
Letters keeping parents informed about events in nursery are sent
home regularly. Archives of useful letters and documents can also be
found on the centre website. Monthly newsletters are emailed out to
parents/carers but are also available at the centre office if you wish a
hard copy.
The Family Centre website is also regularly updated with current
events and details about emergency school closures e.g. in adverse
weather.
Complaints, Suggestions and Compliments
The centre has a complaints and compliments procedure. If you feel
you have a complaint or compliment please contact the Senior
Leadership Team via the F a m i l y Ce nt r e office. You can also either
contact the P r in c ip a l T ea c her o r Head Teacher in person, by
phone or in writing.
A member of the Senior Leadership Team will investigate your complaint
and usually respond that day but certainly within a few days. If you are
still dissatisfied then the Head Teacher will inform you of the next
course of action.
All our campus newsletters have a section titled ‘Let Us Know’ where
we encourage our parents/carers to write in with any complaints,
suggestions and compliments. These are then acted upon and
responded to in the next newsletter.
East Renfrewshire Council’s complaint policy can be found at:
http://www.eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=1573
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Useful Contacts
Neilston Primary School
43 High Street,
Neilston,
East Renfrewshire
G78 3HJ
PHONE: 0141-570-7240
E-MAIL: [email protected]
WEBSITE: https://blogs.glowscotland.org.uk/er/Neilston
TWITTER: @neilston_madras
Madras Family Centre
43 High Street,
Neilston,
East Renfrewshire
G78 3HJ
PHONE: 0141-570-7540
E-MAIL: [email protected]
WEBSITE: https://blogs.glowscotland.org.uk/er/Neilston
TWITTER: @neilston_madras
Education Department
Director of Education
Mhairi L Shaw
East Renfrewshire Council
211 Main Street
Barrhead
East Renfrewshire
G78 1XB
Page | 36
Customer First
East Renfrewshire Council
211 Main Street
Barrhead
East Renfrewshire
G78 1SY
General Enquiries 0141-577-3001
Email: [email protected]
Opening Hours
Monday – Friday 8am – 6pm
School Lets
East Renfrewshire Council
Corporate and Community Services Business Support Section
Council Headquarters
Eastwood Park
Rouken Glen Road,
Giffnock
G46 6UG
0141-577-3900
Email: [email protected]
Other Organisations
The Scottish Parent Teacher Council
53 George Street
Edinburgh
EH2 2HT
0131-226-4378
Email: [email protected]
Local Councillors Located at: East Renfrewshire Council
Council Headquarters
Eastwood Park
Rouken Glen Road
Giffnock
East Renfrewshire
G46 6UG
0141 577 3000
Email: www.eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk
Page | 37
Appendix – Links to Useful Websites
Parental Involvement
Guidance on the Scottish Schools (Parental Involvement) Act 2006
provides guidance on the act for education authorities, Parent Councils
and others.
http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2006/09/08094112/0
Parentzone provides information and resources for parents and Parent
Councils.
http://www.educationscotland.gov.uk/parentzone/index.asp
Mediation
http://www.ea.e-renfrew.sch.uk/parents/asn/mediation.htm
Curriculum for Excellence
Information about how the curriculum is structured and curriculum
planning.
http://www.educationscotland.gov.uk/thecurriculum
Assessment and Reporting
Building the Curriculum 5: A Framework for Assessment provides
guidance around the assessment framework.
http://www.educationscotland.gov.uk/Images/BtC5Framework_tcm4-
653230.pdf
Information about Curriculum for Excellence and how progress is
assessed.
http://www.educationscotland.gov.uk/thecurriculum/howisprogressasses
sed/stages/index.asp
Curriculum for Excellence Factfile – Assessment and Qualifications.
http://www.educationshcotland.gov.uk/publications/c/publication_tcm
4624968.asp
Information on recognising achievement, reporting and profiling.
http://www.educationscotland.gov.uk/learningteachingandassessment/
assessment/achievement/index.asp
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Transitions
Curriculum for excellence factfile -3-18 Transitions provides information
on the transitions children and young people will face throughout their
education and beyond.
http://www.educationscotland.gov.uk/publication_tcm4660285.asp
Enquire is the Scottish advice service for additional support for learning.
http://www.enquire.org.uk
Parenting Across Scotland offers support to children and families in
Scotland.
http://www.parentingacrossscotland.org
Support for Pupils
Parenting Across Scotland offers support to children and families in
Scotland.
http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Education/Schools/welfare/ASL
Supporting Children’s Learning Code of Practice includes specific
requirements on education authorities and others under new legislation
in relation to transition.
http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2011/04/04090720/21
Getting it Right for Every Child and Young Person, is essential reading for
anyone involved or working with children and young people, including
practitioners working in adult services with parents and carers.
http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/People/Young-People/gettingitright
School Improvement
Scottish Schools Online provides a range of school information,
including contact details, school roll, facilities, website and inspection
reports.
http://www.educationscotland.gov.uk/scottishschoolsonline
Education Scotland’s Inspection and Review page provides information
on the inspection process.
http://www.educationscotland.gov.uk/inspectionandreview/index.asp
The Scottish Survey of Literacy and Numeracy (SSLN) is an annual
sample survey which will monitor national performance on the
inspection process.
http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Statistics/Browse/School-
Education/SSLN
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Amazing Things provides information about youth awards in Scotland.
http://www.awardsnetwork.org/index.php
Policies
National policies, information and guidance can be accessed through
the following sites.
http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Education
http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Health
Local policies can be located on the council website.
http://www.eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk
Use of Photography in Schools.
http://www.ea-e-
renfrew.sch.uk/curriculinks/Links/Parents/Parental%20Leaflets/Photographing
ChildrenandYoungPeople.pdf
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Madras Family Centre
43 High Street Neilston G78 3HJ 0141 570 7540 [email protected] www.ea.e-renfrew.sch.uk/neilston @neilston_madras
