Earsham C E V A Primary School

School Road Earsham Bungay, Suffolk NR35 2TF

Tel 01986 892557

e-mail: office@earsham.norfolk.sch.uk

www.earsham.norfolk.sch.uk

Head Teacher: Mrs Sue Armstrong

Chair of Governors: Reverend Sue Cramp

PROSPECTUS

Our School Vision

Learning and development

for all, through challenge, nurture and enjoyment.

Aim

We aim to provide a happy, purposeful, Christian environment, in which each child feels secure and develops self-confidence, enabling them to flourish and reach their full

potential.

Children’s learning journeys are enhanced by working together with

the wider community.

Introduction and Organisation

Dear Parents and Carers

May we welcome you and your family to Earsham Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School.

This prospectus has been designed to answer some basic questions about our school in order to help you and your child settle in to our school community. Hopefully it will also encourage you to come and find out more about what we do. Much of what you read will be familiar to you through your own school experiences but some aspects of education we offer will have changed to reflect the changing society in which our children grow up.

The first school that a child attends plays a vital role in their development, shaping their attitudes about themselves as learners for life. At Earsham we aim to provide a happy, purposeful, Christian environment in which every child can feel secure and therefore flourish, reaching their own full potential. We value respect and kindness and encourage children to become responsible, caring members of the community. We are here to do the best for your child. We want them to enjoy learning, achieve high standards and develop a strong sense of self-worth.

These aims can only be achieved when parents and teachers work closely together. This is a strength of our school and we look forward to developing this partnership with you to provide the best possible education for your child.

I hope you find the information in this prospectus useful. If you have any other questions please do not hesitate to contact me.

Yours faithfully

Sue Armstrong Headteacher

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About our school

Earsham CE VA Primary School is situated in the centre of the village. We are a Voluntary Aided School with four classes of pupils from ages four to eleven. We currently have 105 pupils on role. A list of our staff and governors is given on the next page.

The original school was opened in 1877 on a site donated by the Earsham Hall Estate. In September 2009 we moved across the road, into a brand new school, equipped with the latest technology and excellent facilities. The building consists of four classrooms, a large hall with gymnastic apparatus, two offices, two study rooms, a library, kitchen servery and a staff room. Outside we have hard play areas and extensive grounds. Reception children have their own outdoor area with play equipment and raised planting beds.

We enjoy a beneficial partnership with our village church and participate in Christian festivals such as harvest festival, Mothering Sunday and Christingle, as well as holding our own termly merit assemblies at the church. The Reverend Sue Cramp takes an assembly for us once a week at school. We share the strong sense of community within Earsham and contribute to the monthly village magazine, visit the Moorings home for the elderly to sing carols, distribute harvest gifts and participate in the Earsham Festival

Our last Ofsted inspection in July 2011 judged us to be a good school with outstanding features. The Statutory Inspection of Anglican schools in October 2011 judged us to be outstanding in every area. These reports are available from the school office.

We have a school web-site which gives dates of school events. www.earsham.norfolk.sch.uk

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How are the classes organised?

Our planned admission limit is 15 and is reviewed yearly but the governing body. This enables us to have 4 classes at Earsham – Classes 1 and 2 are foundation stage and key stage 1 and classes 3 and 4 are lower and upper key stage 2.

How do I apply for a place at the school?

First Admissions to School (Reception Year)

Approximately one year before your child is due to start school you should be contacted by the local education authority in whose area you live, and they will explain the procedures for applying for a school place for your child.

If you live in Norfolk, you can apply on line at:

www.admissionsonline.norfolk.gov.uk Their helpline is: 0344 800 8020 Their email address is: information@norfolk.gov.uk If you live in Suffolk you can apply online at: www.suffolk.gov.uk/admissionstoschools

Their helpline is: 0845 600 0981 Their email address is: admissions@suffolk.gov.uk If parental preferences exceed the admission limit the governors will agree the criteria to be used in allocating places as determined by the school’s Admission Policy. The criteria are:

1. Children for whom their Statement of Special Educational Needs names this school.

2. Looked after children. 3. Children living within the Earsham catchment area. 4. Children with brothers and sisters already at the school at the time of

admission. 5. Children from families involved in Christian Worship. (A letter of support from

the parent/s minister confirming monthly attendance at their place of worship is required.)

6. Geographical issues e.g. the shortest direct line distance.

If parents are dissatisfied with the outcome of their preferences they may make representations to Norfolk Children’s Services and efforts will be made to resolve the dissatisfaction. The parents have the right of appeal to an independent Appeals committee whose decision will be binding on the governors and parents.

The process is usually straight forward and follows the schedule outlined below:

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Summer term- Parents are notified that their child has been offered a place at Earsham by Norfolk Children’s Services. Acceptance needs to be confirmed in writing. The school then writes to parents informing them of induction arrangements. These include three visits, a parent’s information evening and home visits in September at the very start of term. This ensures parents and their child have the opportunity to talk to the class teacher and teaching assistant before starting school term.

Children Changing Schools: Applications for places at the school are handled by your local education authority and parents should contact them in the first instance. If places are available, we encourage you to bring your child with you to visit our school, so deciding together that we are right for your family. We like to arrange familiarisation sessions for your child prior to their transfer. We recognise that changing schools is potentially upsetting, and will actively help new pupils settle in and make friends.

Children with disabilities: Please tell us if your child has a physical or sensory impairment. We endeavour to accommodate all children within our school. We may have to consider special arrangements that will need to be in place before your child’s first day.

Looked After Children: We understand that these children need extra care and support to enable them to achieve their potential, and we are fully committed to working with other agencies involved to ensure that this happens.

Where do pupils transfer to at the end of year 6?

At present children transfer to Hobart High School or Bungay High School at the end of Year 6. Parents are free to choose a High School area in their catchment area. Every effort is made to ensure children feel confident when they leave us to begin their next school.

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Staff and Governors

TEACHING STAFF

Mrs Sue Armstrong Headteacher

Mr Luke Adams Class Teacher

Ms Miriam O’Beney Teacher

Miss Victoria Braddock Class Teacher

Mrs Helen Newton Class Teacher

Mr Martyn Woodcraft Class Teacher

Miss Holly Lewis Class Teacher

TEACHING ASSISTANTS

Mrs Marie Mitson Nurture/Pastoral Practitioner

Mrs Margaret Parsons Teaching Assistant

Mrs Julie Hood Teaching Assistant

Mrs Julie Walton Teaching Assistant

Mrs Judy Whyte Teaching Assistant

Mrs Jackie Moore Learning Support Assistant

Mrs Donna Elvery Learning Support Assistant

Mrs Rebecca Reynolds Learning Support Assistant

NON TEACHING STAFF

Mrs Amanda Linford Secretary

Mrs Tracey Hinsley Finance Officer

Miss Tabitha Gibson Mid-day Supervisor

Mrs Lucie Sayer Mid-day Supervisor

Mrs Rhoda Reeve Mid-day Supervisor/Clerical Assistant

Mrs Brenda Rush Mid-day Supervisor

Mrs Annette White Mid-day Supervisor

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GOVERNORS

Revd Sue Cramp Bishop’s Appointed (Chairman)

Mrs Sue Armstrong Headteacher

Vacancy Foundation DBE

Vacancy Foundation DBE/PCC

Miss Christine Douglas Foundation DBE/PCC

Mrs Gillian Harvey Foundation DBE/PCC

Mrs Helen Ford Foundation PCC

Mrs Janine Lascelles Foundation PCC

Mrs C Hutton Foundation PCC

Vacancy LEA Governor

Mrs Laura Hines Parent Governor

Mrs Judy Whyte Staff Governor

Miss Victoria Braddock Teacher Governor

Governors act a critical friend to the school and have a general responsibility for the effective management of the school, acting within the framework set by national legislation and by the policies of the County Council. They have duties relating to staffing, discipline, policies, National Curriculum, school buildings and managing the school’s delegated budget.

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Current School Policies: All school policies are regularly reviewed and updated by staff and governors. They are all available for parents to read, either displayed on the governors’ notice board or by request from the office.

Administration of Medicines Admissions Anti-Bullying Anti-Smoking Art Assessment and Recording Attendance Bad Debt Behaviour Charging and Refunds Collective Worship Complaints Procedure Community Cohesion Design and Technology Disciplinary, Conduct and Capability Dismissal Drama Drugs Early years Educational Visits and Journeys Exclusions Finance First Aid Food Freedom of Information Geography Gifted and Talented Children Governors’ Allowances Governors Monitoring the Curriculum Grievance Procedure

Health and Safety History Homework I.C.T. Induction and Transfer Internet – Acceptable Use Intimate Care Lettings Literacy Looked After Children Marking Mathematics Music Open References Pay and Performance Management P.S.H.E. and Citizenship Physical Education Redundant Equipment Religious Education School Aims School Uniform Science Security Sex and Relationships Single Equality Scheme S.E.N. Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural Development Supervision Teaching and Learning Whole School Policy for Safeguarding Children (incorporating Child Protection)

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Dates for the Year 2015 - 2016

Autumn Term 2015 Thursday 3 September 2015 First Day of Autumn Term

Thursday 22 October to Friday 30 October Half Term Holiday

Monday 2 November Second Half Term Begins

Friday 18 December Last Day of Autumn Term

Spring Term 2016 Tuesday 5 January 2016 First Day of Spring Term

Monday 15 to Friday 19 February Half Term Holiday

Monday 22 February Second Half Term begins

Thursday 24 March Last day of Spring Term

Summer Term 2016 Monday 11 April 2016 First Day of Summer Term

Monday 2 May May Day Holiday

Monday 30 to Friday 3 June Half Term Holiday

Monday 6 June Second Half Term begins

Wednesday 20 July Last Day of Summer Term

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Teaching and Learning

What do the children learn?

We believe it is important to keep you informed about what your child is learning so that you can discuss it with them and provide encouragement at home. At the beginning of each half term we send home a curriculum outline plan covering all subjects.

As in all state schools, all children in their Reception year follow the Foundation Stage Curriculum that covers six areas of learning :- Communication Language and Literacy, Mathematical development, Knowledge and Understanding of the World, Physical development, Creative development, Personal Social & Emotional development.

Teaching and Learning. We believe that children learn best when they are involved in assessing their own learning. They are always given the objective for each lesson (We are learning to …) and how they will know if they’ve achieved it. Children learn in a variety of ways, and within a series of lessons your child will be given opportunities to learn through hearing, seeing and doing. Your child will be taught to self evaluate their success, and identify what they need to learn next. Our marking system links directly to the learning for the lesson, and children are given opportunities to self and paired mark on occasions. All our displays will show the intended learning as part of the title. Children are taught by direct whole class teaching and through individual, group or whole class work that is differentiated according to individual ability.

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English

The development of language skills is of prime importance in our school. The process of language development comes into all areas of the curriculum and we give careful attention to its teaching in both formal English exercises and in other areas of the curriculum.

Reading: Children learn individual letter sounds and common letter blends using a very structured phonics based scheme. We encourage parents to practice these at home. Using a little but very often approach, combined with lots of praise and enjoyable activities, most children learn quickly. They read every day as part of their literacy lesson, either individually or in a group. Children with specific learning difficulties are given regular individual help. Children are also given a reading book to take home and practice with parents. Reading books are checked and changed at least once a week.

Writing: Great emphasis is placed on teaching the children to be able to communicate in the written form, to record events, to write imaginatively and to report factual information.

The children begin by printing and are taught letter formation in the first class. Later they are encouraged to develop a good, joined up, legible handwriting style with an accuracy in their spelling to match their reading skills.

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Speaking and Listening: Learning begins with speaking and listening. Children need to develop adequate speaking and listening skills. Every child is encouraged to express themselves through the spoken word and to appreciate the importance and pleasure of listening to others, e.g. a good story read or told. Discussion may take place with individuals, small groups and to a larger audience about their news or views.

Verbal reports and explanations of work play a major role in measuring the children’s achievements and understanding in all areas of the curriculum, e.g. explaining how they made a product in Design and Technology.

Drama: We believe that participating in Drama productions can offer children an opportunity to raise their self esteem through an alternative medium to more academic subjects.

Children have the opportunity to perform in merit assemblies as well as take part in whole school productions two or three times a year. These are wonderfully exciting occasions requiring children to support each other and take individual responsibility for achieving success as a unified school. We consider that making the commitment to take part in these events is part of developing good citizens. They are always tremendously moving events for staff and parents who watch children perform with great pride.

Modern Foreign Languages: Class three and four children learn French. Class one and two are introduced to a variety of languages. Young children learn other languages easily, as to them it is just a matter of making funny noises and they are experts at that! We teach each class a few words of French, German, Italian and Spanish, so developing their curiosity of different languages and cultures.

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Numeracy

The National Numeracy Strategy provides teachers with a clear set of objectives for each year group. With our small classes and experienced teaching assistants we are able to teach children in groups according to their ability. This enables children of all abilities to become secure and confident in their understanding of mathematical concepts. Children learn through practical, fun activities that they enjoy but also challenge them. Our most able pupils are working well beyond the expected level for their age and thoroughly enjoying the stimulating opportunities they have to develop their skills at a high level.

Science

The teaching and learning of Science follows the programmes of study for the National Curriculum and Early Learning Goals. This begins with elementary observations and investigations for the youngest children in the school. Through these early explorations children begin to develop a sense of wonder and curiosity for the world they live in. Science is a strong subject in the Bungay area as Bungay High School has specialist science status and we benefit from support in resources and exciting events for children that include other local schools.

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Information and Communication Technology

The school has a strong commitment to computer technology and believes in a maximum entitlement of opportunities. We are well equipped with interactive whiteboards in every classroom and plenty of computers and digital cameras for children to use. Staff are continually developing their own skills and encourage children to use technology as a useful tool in all subjects.

Humanities (History and Geography)

In the Early Years this work involves looking at and finding out about familiar things in the locality and on visits. This progresses into methods of study and enquiry. Children are taught through carefully selected topics to gain information collecting skills and to acquire factual information about the different people and places of the world. Guests to the school and visits to various localities outside the school form an essential part of this process.

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Creative Studies

These include Art and Design, Design and Technology, Music and Drama.

In Art and Design and Design Technology we encourage children to experiment with and enjoy using a wide range of media and materials. The children are helped to develop their artistic, creative and technological potential at all stages in the school. Frequently this work is tied in with a particular topic which the children are working on.

There is a high emphasis on good quality display in the school and the children are encouraged to play a part in this process by contributing their own ideas, materials and comments.

Music is enjoyed in a number of ways and all children are encouraged to participate. Class work provides opportunities for singing, listening and appraising and performing. The children are encouraged to appreciate a wide variety of styles of music through the range of multicultural and different genres they listen to each week in assembly. Whole school performances are always musicals and involve singing, dancing and instruments. Class three children have the opportunity to learn to play the recorder.

Physical Education

The children take part in weekly sessions to develop their movement control and skill. This includes the use of small equipment (bats, balls, bean bags and quoits) to develop their dexterity and physical control. The preliminary skills necessary for team games (football, netball, tennis and rounders) are taught. All children get the opportunity to use the hall for Dance and Gymnastics. Each year we hold a traditional Sports Day in which all children, and indeed all adults, have the opportunity to participate in fun but competitive events. Classes Three and Four have a swimming lesson once a week for a term and a half each at the Waveney Valley Pool in Bungay.

There are opportunities for all to develop games skills in after school clubs at various times in the year. We are part of a School Sports partnership and regularly participate in sports activities with other local schools.

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Religious Education

Earsham School is a Voluntary Aided Church of England School so the teaching of Christianity is given greater curriculum time in all classes. We follow the Agreed Norfolk R.E. Syllabus covering key aspects of six of the world’s main religions i.e. Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism and Sikhism. Once every half term we have an RE day focussed on an aspect of Christianity. We have many religious artefacts and encourage children to treat them with reverence and show respect for the beliefs and cultures of others. Children learn about religion as well as learning from it, considering the influence it has on people’s lives. In all classes staff approach the teaching of R.E. sensitively, aware that some children’s parents may hold differing beliefs. Children’s confidence in their parents is paramount, and, though we assume parents are happy for their children to be taught in a Christian environment as we are a C. of E. School, we are never dogmatic on any issue.

Collective Worship takes place every morning. It is a quiet, reflective time for the whole school to join in Christian worship. On Friday the head teacher finishes the week with an assembly that celebrates achievements of all kinds and reinforces the Christian values and standards of behaviour expected in school. Children go home proud of their achievements and looking forward to doing well again the following week! You may withdraw your child from Religious Education lessons or collective worship if you wish, after discussion with the head teacher.

P.S.H.E. and Citizenship

Personal, Social and Health Education is taught throughout the school using ‘Circle Time’ (listening and speaking sessions). As children progress through school, formal lessons are delivered, covering themes including staying healthy, developing independence, responsibility and becoming involved in the community. We, at Earsham School realize the importance of giving our children the knowledge, skills and understanding they need to lead confident, healthy and independent lives and to become informed, active and responsible citizens. Your child is given opportunities to take part in a range of activities and experiences, from duties around the school, to playground committee membership in year 4 as well as activities in the local community. They learn to recognise their own worth, work well with others and become increasingly responsible for their own learning. We welcome visitors into our school to share their experiences with us all, as well as visiting the Moorings home for the elderly, distributing harvest gifts, contributing to the village magazine each month and participating in the annual Earsham Festival.

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Sex and Relationships Education

Sex Education is taught throughout the school. It begins in Key Stage 1 and progresses through the school with children learning about health, hygiene, body parts and functions. Children only have confirmation and classification at the level of their understanding and where information is passed on it is done in a caring, sensitive way. Parents are invited to a meeting where they can look at teaching materials and ask questions about our Sex and Relationships Program for the children in years 5 and 6. Parents may withdraw children from sex education lessons.

Assessment of Work

Children’s work is assessed on a regular basis during the year to ensure that the work set is matched to the ability of the pupil, and so that they are supported and challenged. These assessments and records are available for parents to see and are used by staff to compile the yearly report, which is sent home during the Summer term. We also involve the children in their own self-assessments of work, skills and qualities. We feel it is important to record positive achievements in order to motivate the children and set targets for future progress.

How will my child’s progress be reported to me?

It is most important to us to celebrate your child’s achievements whether academic or social. We give a variety of rewards for effort or excellence in all areas of school life. Merits are presented at our half termly merit assemblies with parents and we hope your child will treasure these certificates. We also have a “Gold Book of Good Playground Behaviour” to record and reward good citizenship during play times.

Informally we invite you to come into school at any time if you are concerned about your child or you want to celebrate with us. Teachers are always available at the beginning and end of each day for informal discussions.

More formally, in the autumn and summer terms we offer parent consultation sessions with your child’s teacher. This provides you with an opportunity to discuss the following:

your child’s academic progress including results of assessments social and emotional development learning targets for the future the school’s approach to teaching and learning how you might be able to help your child at home

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In the spring term “Open Sessions” are arranged for parents to come into school and look at work with their child and praise their achievements.

Interim reports are sent home to parents in the autumn term to ensure you are fully informed of your child’s progress.

You will receive a full written end of year report at the beginning of July that will include effort grades and levels achieved in all the National Curriculum subjects.

How does Earsham ensure equal opportunities for all children?

The Governors and staff at Earsham are committed to providing the full range of opportunities for all our children regardless of gender, disability, ethnicity, social, cultural or religious background. All our children have equal access to the curriculum, and the right to a fair and just learning environment. This commitment is written into our School Improvement and Development Plan. We believe it is essential that children should develop an understanding of a variety of cultures. We plan and provide much needed opportunities for multicultural experiences as we have very little natural cultural diversity in our part of Norfolk. We aim to help children grow into people who respect and care for all people.

How does the school meet the needs of the more able child?

Through our assessment processes we identify more able children and ensure that they are catered for within normal class teaching differentiation. Those whom we consider would benefit from a specific additional challenge are given opportunities to take part in additional activities both during and outside the school day.

If my child finds learning difficult, how will the school support their needs?

Consideration is given to all children with Additional Educational Needs, including children with learning disabilities, children with physical disabilities, and children with emotional problems. Class teachers work closely with the Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator, who is the head teacher, so that all children are offered the appropriate support according to need. Children may be supported by being given differentiated work within the classroom, additional teacher or learning support time either in or out of the classroom, on an individual or group basis, or a regular support programme supported by additional teaching time from outside the school. During each term, the SENCO, and class teacher meet to review the progress made by each child, and adjustments are made to the support as appropriate. Some children will be given an Individual Education Plan (IEP) with specific targets to work towards. If your child has an IEP we will discuss it with you so that you can help them too. As a parent you know your child better than anyone, and we will always consult you when making decisions about your child’s specific needs.

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What work will my child be expected to do at home?

All children will be given regular homework and the amount set increases as they get older.

Year group

Time allocation

Subjects

Reception 1 hour per week

Daily reading practice. Extra reinforcement activities given to individual children as necessary in consultation with parents.

Year 1/2 1 hour per week

Reading and spelling.

Year 3/4 1½ hours per week

Reading, maths, spellings and one other task.

Year 5/6 1½ hours per week

Reading, maths, spelling and project work.

Homework should not be an unpleasant experience for children. Its purpose is to reinforce learning and make links between lessons, and is an ideal opportunity for you to share and discuss the learning that is happening currently. Homework is not a solitary task. Please show interest, help your child with their work, discuss with them what they have learned and how they have learnt it, and share any puzzles, games or problems that they bring home. This enables you to share in the life of the school and gives another opportunity to show children that school and home are mutually supportive.

Clubs

Clubs run for half a term at a time and then change, providing enough variety to cater for all children’s interests. They often include football, dancing, computers or maths.

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Day To Day Life at Earsham

In Spring 2013 we refurbished our school library and all the children were taught how to use the library correctly by a Schools’ County

Librarian

How do I know my child is safe in school?

We take our responsibility to keep children safe very seriously and have rigorous policies and procedures in place which we all adhere to and are regularly monitored by governors. Child protection, safeguarding and health and safety issues are also checked thoroughly by county and Ofsted inspectors. We comply with all Norfolk Local Safeguarding Children’s Board procedures. Every adult working in school is CRB checked and records of their details kept. All staff have training on safeguarding and know the school’s policy. Every member of staff has a duty to ensure the safety of the children who attend the school. We want to work with you, as parents and carers, to ensure the best possible care for your child, but this may occasionally require situations about which we have cause for concern and refer to Social Services. We are required by law to follow procedures laid down by the Norfolk Local Safeguarding Children’s Board if we see signs which suggest that one of our pupils has been a victim of abuse. Use of the procedures in this way is an obligation placed on the school by legislation and in no way infers that any parent/carer is being accused of wrong doing. Because of the daily contact with children, school staff are particularly well placed to observe outward signs of abuse, changes in behaviour or failure to develop. Parents should be aware, therefore, that where it appears to a member of staff that a child may have been abused, the school is required to report the concern immediately.

Copies of these policies are displayed in a file in the lobby area and are available on the school website. www.earsham.norfolk.sch.uk

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The Head Teacher (or another member of staff if she is unavailable) stands at the gate before school to welcome parents and ensure children do not leave the site. Gates and exits are kept locked during the school day (apart from fire exits) and entry to the school is only possible through the main entrance to ensure all adults in school are checked first. At the end of the day parents are able to enter the building at 3.15 pm. The head teacher and one other member of staff supervise children leaving to ensure their safety. Please let us know if someone different will be collecting your child. If we don’t know the adult or feel unsure about the situation we will play safe and keep the child with us. Our parents generally welcome this vigilant approach.

Children are always well supervised when out on the playground or field.

We believe children should be protected from harmful exposure to the sun and take precautions to ensure they are not at risk when at school. We have shady areas to sit in and children are encouraged to wear hats and drink plenty of water. Please provide a named hat and apply sun cream before school. (Sun cream is not allowed in school except by prior arrangement with the Head Teacher.)

Parking near the school is difficult but cars can be parked on the roadside further down from the school and also in the village hall car park. There are two disabled parking spaces in the school car park but no other parking for parents.

You can rely on our staff to care for your child as a parent would, keeping you fully informed of any problems.

What happens if my child becomes unwell or has an accident?

Staff who hold a current First aid certificates are able to sympathetically deal with minor cuts and bruises. If your child receives any first aid treatment during school time, they will bring a letter home with them. We may need to contact you if the situation becomes more serious. It is important that you maintain up to date contact numbers and emergency numbers at the school office for this purpose. If you are not contactable, the school will have to take decisions ‘in loco parentis’ if the illness or injury necessitates a visit to hospital. We are not allowed to administer medicines and for safety reasons children should not be sent to school with medication of any kind. If your child needs medicine during school time a parent may come in to school to administer it. If there is a long term problem requiring regular medication arrangements for this can be made with the head teacher.

Children who suffer with asthma must keep an inhaler at school. These are stored in the classroom with the child. Children are supervised as they use them and a note made of the date and time.

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We need up to date information about frequency of use, likely triggers and dosage. Inhalers are carried in a class bag by a member of staff whenever the children go off site.

We keep a register of children with specific medical or dietary needs. Please help us to keep these records up to date so we can ensure your child’s safety and comfort at all times.

What are the timings of the school day?

School starts at 9.00am and finishes at 3.15pm. Children and parents may come in to the playground from 8.50am but not into the building for safety reasons.

What is the school’s policy on absenteeism?

If your child is absent or will arrive late for school for any reason please telephone or e-mail the school office before 9.10am. For children’s safety we all need to know where they are and we are legally required to record authorised and unauthorised absences, including any child who arrives after registration.

For your child to maximize their educational potential, it is important for them to be present at school as much as possible. Family holidays during term time should be avoided wherever possible. If you do wish to take your child on holiday during school time, you must fill in a request form obtained from the school office

What should my child wear for school?

Putting on a school uniform at the beginning of the school day means we are ready to work and learn. We expect all children to be proud to wear our school uniform.

All clothing worn to school should be clearly marked with the child's name to keep our lost property problem to a minimum. Children with long hair should arrange to have it tied back neatly for all lessons and hair should be of natural colour and design.

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Clothing:

Upper Body

White polo shirt, plain or with school logo, shirt or blouse with long or short sleeves in a plain style

Royal blue sweatshirt or cardigan, plain or with school logo Lower Body

Boys: Black or grey long or short school style trousers Socks – dark colours Girls: Black or grey skirt or

Pinafore dress or Black or grey school style trousers (not leggings) in a non cling material, black or grey culottes, knee length shorts or ¾ length trousers. Suitable dresses in blue or blue and white (e.g. gingham or stripes) may be worn in warmer weather Socks or tights – dark colours or white (if tights are worn, socks should be brought to change into for outdoor P.E.) Shoes: Dark coloured flat shoes of a design suitable for school

P.E: A named PE bag with school logo Royal blue T-Shirt plain or with printed school logo Black or grey shorts

A change of shoes; plimsolls for indoors and trainers for outdoors Children may also bring a tracksuit or old trousers, a jumper and a spare pair of socks for winter games

Swimming: One piece costume or trunks Towel Swimming hat

Hats: Suitable sun hat, Legionnaire’s or baseball cap plain or with printed school logo

Sweatshirts, cardigans, polo shirts, PE T shirts, P.E. bags and book bags, Legionnaire’s and baseball caps and also swimming hats may be purchased from the school office.

Jewellery: Jewellery can be dangerous at school and should not be worn, with the exception of simple studs for children with pierced ears. The studs should be removed for PE if possible (the child must be able to do this themselves) or they can be covered with micro pore. Make-up and Nail Polish: Please do not allow children to wear make-up or nail varnish to school.

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Charging and Refunds Policy

Legislation allows schools to charge for certain activities which take place both inside and outside school hours. Earsham CE VA Primary School has adopted the Norfolk County Council policy.

These are the activities and materials for which you may be charged:

Music tuition: individual tuition in playing a musical instrument which is neither part of the syllabus for an approved public examination, nor part of the National Curriculum. Schools may charge for instrumental tuition given to groups of no more than four pupils.

Ingredients and materials: ingredients and materials for practical subjects where parents have indicated in advance that they wish to receive the finished articles.

Travel: the cost of travel when a pupil makes use of transport not provided by the authority or school, to travel direct from home to an activity approved of, but not provided by, the authority or school.

Board and lodging: will be charged in all cases where a school activity involves pupils in nights away from home.

Activities outside school hours

A charge will be made for all non-residential activities which take place wholly or more than 50% outside school hours, where the child's participation has been agreed in advance by the parents. The charge will include the cost of travel, entrance fees, insurance, books, equipment and any staff (teaching or non-teaching) engaged specifically for the activity.

Residential trips outside school hours - a residential trip is deemed to take place outside school hours if the number of "missed" school sessions is less than half of the number of half days taken up by the trip. Charges will be made as described above.

Public Examinations - charges are made for the entry of a pupil for a prescribed examination for which he/she has not been prepared by the school, or where the pupil entered for examinations in the same subject with two examination boards.

Remission of charges - only parents who are in receipt of Income Support, Working Families’ Credit, Disabled Person’s Tax Credit or Income Based Job Seekers Allowance are eligible for remission of charges. Remission of charges only applies to board and lodgings charges which are levied directly by the LEA or the school and where they relate to activities deemed to take place wholly or partly in school hours.

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Remission will not apply to such charges when they relate to activities wholly outside school hours, except if the activity is prescribed in a syllabus for a public examination, if it is prescribed by the National Curriculum or fulfils duties relating to Religious Education.

Parents who have difficulty meeting any charges should discuss the matter in confidence with the headteacher.

Refunds

It is the Governors’ policy that any income collected in relation to the costs of extra curricular activities, sales etc shall be refunded in full, provided that the expenditure has not already been committed and a refund will not result in a financial loss to the school.

Extra curricular activities may require full payment in advance of the activity taking place. Where the school has made a financial commitment based on an agreement with parents, payment will still be required.

The full contribution to an activity taking place in school time will be refunded on request if a child is absent due to illness.

If a trip has to be cancelled parental contributions will be refunded.

If contributions to an activity exceed the total cost a refund will be given, if excess is over 50p per child.

Excess income less than 50p per child will be paid into school account.

Excess of expenditure will be funded by school.

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How are children expected to behave?

We always treat children with consideration and respect. As a result they learn to respect other people and have a responsible attitude to the general care of the school. We believe the development of self-control and an acceptance of responsibility for their actions is essential if children are to live happily in a community. We aim to encourage self-discipline, courtesy, consideration and respect of others and the school environment. Positive praise is essential. We celebrate good behaviour and cooperation as well as good learning. We have a reward system consisting of stickers, charts and certificates to celebrate achievement in all aspects of school life.

We have a small but very important number of school rules that we expect the children to keep. These are designed to support the ethos and safety of the school. They are:

Be kind. Be careful. Work hard.

These rules are discussed with children and enforced consistently by all members of staff and the children themselves. Standards of behaviour are high as most of our children do not need telling how to behave properly. They feel strongly that they want to be able to play and learn safely and happily.

Staff are skilled in identifying potential areas of conflict and can usually diffuse situations calmly, with consideration for the needs of all involved. Children know what is expected, boundaries are defined and sanctions fair. These include time-out, using play times to complete tasks or contemplate difficulties that have arisen. Class teachers will keep parents informed at informal meetings, for example when a child is collected from school. We believe in working in partnership with parents as consistency of approach at home and at school is a key element in resolving behaviour difficulties.

If parents accept a place for their child we assume that they are happy with our school, accept the rules and expect their child to follow them. A “Home/School Contract” is given to all new pupils. Parents, school and children sign this agreement to work together.

What can my child eat at school?

For break time class one and two children are given a piece of fruit. Class three and four children may also bring their own fruit or cheese to eat. We encourage all children to drink plenty of water.

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A hot mid-day meal or a packed lunch option (£2.10 each) is available daily, consisting of two courses. Payment should be made on a Monday and we ask parents to put the correct money or a cheque made payable to Earsham CE VA Primary School in an envelope with the child’s name on it, in the class dinner money box outside the office. Cheques save a lot of administration time and payments may be made in advance, ie either half termly or termly. School meals have improved a lot in recent years and are now tasty and nutritious, have a high content of fruit and vegetables and very little processed foods. Ours are cooked at Ditchingham Primary School and served here.

Children may bring their own packed lunch. We encourage children to learn about healthy eating as part of our lessons and hope that the content of packed lunches reflects this teaching. Children are not allowed to bring sweets to school. Children are supervised during lunchtime by a dedicated team of Midday Supervisory Assistants in addition to the head teacher who is always on duty.

Our School Milk Scheme Did you know our school has a school milk scheme? By registering your child for our school milk scheme they will receive a 189ml (third of a pint) carton of semi-skimmed milk every day. This is delivered fresh and chilled to their classroom every day. “How much does it cost?” Thanks to government subsidies, school milk is free for all under-fives and is subsided at around £15 a term for children aged five or older. “Why should I register my child?” School milk provides your child with essential nutrients such as calcium and protein, for strong, healthy teeth and bones. It is also rehydrating and energy boosting, helping to bridge the long gap between breakfast and lunch so children stay focused. Find out the top ten reasons to drink school milk at www.coolmilk.com/whyschoolmilk “How do I register my child?” If your child is under five- 1. Go to www.coolmilk.com or pick up a form from school. 2. Just register by a Tuesday for your child’s free milk to start the following week. 3. Free milk will continue until the Friday before your child’s fifth birthday. You will receive a payment request three weeks before this time- if you wish for your child to continue to receive school milk simply make a payment. If your child is over five- 1. Go to www.coolmilk.com or pick up a form from school. 2. Pay Cool Milk online, over the phone, at a local PayPoint or by cheque in instalments to suit you. If registering online you can pay straight away, if using a registration form you will need to wait to receive a payment request. 3. Just pay by a Tuesday for your child’s milk to start the following week.

“How do I find out more?” Visit www.coolmilk.com or contact Cool Milk directly on 0844 854 2913.

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How can parents contribute to the life of the school?

We value any help that you can give us in school. Any such help you give not only benefits the school in general, it also benefits your own child. It shows them that you value the school and are interested in what is happening. Some ways you can help are:

Supporting the PTA. The PTA is a wonderful, much appreciated group of positive, hard working parents. They put on entertaining and fundraising events throughout the year, well supported by other parents, staff and governors. Because of them we have been able to purchase the “extra” things the school’s budget does not provide for.(e.g. the stage system, numerous books and classroom resources, educational toys and puzzles, ICT equipment and subsidised coach prices for school visits. All parents are automatically members of the PTA and any contribution you can make to their work will make a difference.

Helping in classrooms with specific activities.

Helping your child with their homework.

What else should I know about Earsham?

Educational Visits are an important part of school life. We use the village, local places and sites further afield to enrich children’s experience of the curriculum. We ensure that all children have the same entitlement to these opportunities. Parents may be asked for a voluntary contribution towards the cost of travel and admission. All pupils are entitled to participate whether their parents pay or not. However, if insufficient voluntary contributions are received, it may be necessary to cancel a planned activity.

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We ask parents/carers to sign a form granting permission for their child to participate fully in these visits. The organisation of these visits strictly compiles with county safety procedures and the head teacher is responsible for ensuring these are fully met.

Year 6 children also usually have the opportunity to take part in a residential visit, usually in June. This year they visited the Kingswood Centre at West Runton. With a focus on fresh starts, better teamwork and new friendships, this programme helps young people as they prepare to make a transition in their learning journey.

Local Arrangements for the Consideration of Complaints

The Governing Body is required under section 23 of the Education Reform Act 1988 to adopt a procedure for the consideration of complaints about the school curriculum and related matters. This covers issues relating to the National Curriculum, religious education and worship, the operating of charging policies, regulations about the provision of information and other statutory curriculum issues. Parents should note that it is the wish of the Governing Body to deal with all complaints quickly, effectively and as informally as possible. Parents are asked, therefore, in the first instance to refer any concerns directly to the Headteacher.

Closing the School in an Emergency

Excluding holidays and staff training days, school will only be closed in extreme circumstances, such as:

1. Blizzard conditions, heavy snow, blocked roads 2. Loss of heat and power

A decision to close the school will be made by the Headteacher in consultation with the Chair of Governors, if available.

Notices will be posted at the school gate and in severe weather announced on local radio. Texts may also be sent to parents.

The Norfolk Website also has details (www. norfolkesinet.org.uk). Should your child be at school and closure is necessary then you will be contacted.