staples road infant school · chair of governors: david prosser type of school: academy primary...
TRANSCRIPT
Staples Road Primary
School
Prospectus
Welcome to Staples Road Primary School
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Dear Parents,
Our prospectus aims to give you an insight into our School life and to
answer questions you may have about how our School is organised.
Staples Road Primary School is a successful and popular school, which is
part of the Epping Forest Schools Partnership Trust (EFSPT). Together we
create a positive ethos where everyone is valued and encouraged to fulfil
their potential to the best of their abilities, in fact, our School motto is
Strive, Respect, Succeed. Children’s happiness is paramount and we aim
to inspire, motivate and promote their own achievements in order that they
experience success through mutual respect.
Choosing the right school for your child is one of the most important
decisions a parent/carer has to make. A prospectus can only be an
introduction to a school therefore we feel it is important that you visit
Staples Road Primary and we look forward to meeting you.
Yours sincerely,
Jane Harvey
Headteacher
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School Information
Address: Staples Road, Loughton, Essex IG10 1HR
Telephone: 020 8508 1241
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.staplesroad.essex.sch.uk
Headteacher: Jane Harvey
Chair of Governors: David Prosser
Type of School: Academy Primary School
Academy: Epping Forest Schools Partnership Trust (EFSPT)
Number of pupils September 2018: 600
Number intended to admit September 2018: 90
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School Year
Autumn Term:
TERM STARTS: Tuesday 4th September 2018
Half Term Holiday: Monday 22nd October – Friday 26th October 2018
TERM ENDS: Wednesday 19th December 2018
Non Pupil Days: Tuesday 4th September 2018
Friday 19th October 2018
Wednesday 19th December 2018
Spring Term:
TERM STARTS: Thursday 3rd January 2019
Half Term Holiday: Monday 18th February – Friday 22nd February 2019
TERM ENDS: Friday 5th April 2019
Summer Term:
TERM STARTS: Tuesday 23rd April 2019
Half Term Holiday: Monday 27th May – Friday 31st May 2019
TERM ENDS: Wednesday 24th July 2019
Non Pupil Days: Monday 3rd June 2019
Wednesday 24th July 2019
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School History
Staples Road Primary School is housed in two
lovely Victorian buildings and a new Y6 block,
which was completed in December 2016. The
original building was built as a Board School in
1888 and the second building was built in 1906.
It is pleasantly situated in a quiet conservation
area overlooking Epping Forest.
School Ethos
Our School is a happy, caring community, in which
everyone is valued and encouraged to fulfil their
potential, developing growth mind-sets in both
pupils and staff. We teach children to look after
themselves and each other so that they can be
healthy and happy whilst in our care. We aim to
foster a sense of belonging within the School,
welcoming parents, friends, Governors, past
pupils and those living in the local neighbourhood
and to value their contribution to the School.
School Aims
Staples Road Primary School aims focus on our
School motto:
Strive
to provide a welcoming and caring school
that enriches the lives of those within it
and those who visit it;
to be an aspirational learning community;
setting high expectations of the children
and the adults within our school;
to challenge and inspire every individual
to fulfil their potential;
to provide every child with a rich and
varied curriculum;
to provide learning experiences that
allow all pupils equal opportunities to
develop their thinking and creative skills.
Respect
to nurture partnerships with all
stakeholders to foster positive links;
to develop confident and positive
attitudes amongst children and staff in
an atmosphere of mutual trust, tolerance
and respect;
to support children’s social, moral,
spiritual and cultural development,
preparing children to become well-
rounded individuals;
to promote British values within an
inclusive community.
Succeed
Children are motivated and independent
learners;
Children have an embedded growth
mindset and a positive attitude to
learning;
Children are creative thinkers;
Children are equipped with life skills to
contribute to the wider community.
Achievements
The School is very proud of the standards
achieved by our pupils. This is achieved by the
support and good quality teaching offered by
the School. Our end of year results can be
found on our website:
www.staplesroad.essex.sch.uk
Epping Forest Schools Partnership
Trust (EFSPT) On the 1st July 2018, Staples Road Primary
School joined the Epping Forest Schools
Partnership Trust (EFSPT). EFSPT is a multi-
academy trust comprising 15 schools within the
Epping Forest district. The overarching
objective for the Trust is to support schools in
being welcoming, caring, calm and purposeful;
schools which will stretch young people
academically, support them pastorally and help
to develop them socially and spiritually.
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Joining the School
All admissions are dealt with by the Local
Authority:
Planning and Admissions
PO Box 4261
Chelmsford
Essex CM1 1GS
Telephone: 0345 603 2200
It is the responsibility of parents to make an
application for their child's first school
place. It is not necessary to wait to receive an
application form or a letter before you apply and
applications can be made from mid-November to
mid-January. Places are then allocated by the
Local Authority according to the Admissions
Policy. All applicants will be asked, by the
School, to provide proof of residence in the form
of a council tax demand, a recent utility bill,
child benefit documentation and a full birth
certificate for your child. Arrangements can be
made to visit the School by appointment with the
Headteacher, who will be pleased to meet
parents and to show them around the School.
Appeals Procedure
Every effort is made to provide a place for your
child, but we have a limit on the number of
children we can admit. This figure is set by the
Local Authority. If the number of children
wanting a place is below the set figure, all will be
admitted. There may, however, come a point
when there are too many children within a year
group and consequently priority will be given to
children according to a list of carefully agreed
criteria, which are published in the Admissions
Policy.
If a place is not available upon application, you
have the right to put your case to an Admissions
Appeal Panel. An independent panel will hear
your case and it has the power to override the
decisions of the Local Authority in some
circumstances.
Starting School for the first time
Starting school is a very important time for you,
your child and the School. We all need to work
together to make the transition smooth and
rewarding.
In the term prior to their entry, children and
their parents will be invited into School to meet
with the Headteacher and classteacher and to
attend an induction meeting. These visits will
help them become familiar with the surroundings
and routines of school. Parents/carers will be
able to discuss our home/school partnership and
talk about any questions and concerns they may
have. Parents/carers will be given guidance
booklets that provide a wealth of information.
Transferring from other schools
Sometimes children join the School after the
term has started or later on in their school life.
We ensure that newcomers are welcomed, looked
after and monitored so that they quickly make
friends and can find their way around the School.
The Curriculum
We aim to provide every child with a curriculum
which is rich and varied, challenging and inspiring.
Our curriculum is broad and balanced and great
emphasis is placed on planning so that there is
continuity and progression through the School.
Early Years Foundation Stage
Curriculum (EYFS)
We follow The Early Years Foundation Stage
Curriculum. This curriculum is suited to the
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needs of our youngest learners, the reception
classes. There are seven areas of learning and
development which are all important and inter-
connected. Three areas are particularly crucial
for igniting children’s curiosity and enthusiasm
for learning and for building their capacity to
learn, form relationships and thrive. The seven
areas of learning are divided into two areas of
learning and development:
Prime Areas: • Communication and Language
• Physical Development
• Personal, Social and Emotional
Development
Specific Areas: • Literacy
• Mathematics
• Understanding the World
• Expressive Arts and Design
Children should mostly develop the 3 prime
areas first. These are:
Communication and language;
Physical development; and
Personal, social and emotional
development.
The EYFS curriculum is grounded in active
learning. Through practical activities, purposeful
play and talk, pupils develop an understanding of
the world and the basic concepts they will need
for their later learning. Parents/carers can play
a major role in fostering good attitudes to
learning, developing language skills and promoting
good behaviour. Parents are regularly invited into
school to contribute to their child’s learning logs
through ‘sharing’ afternoons.
The EYFS curriculum develops children’s
personal, social and emotional well-being and
promotes positive attitudes and dispositions
towards their learning. It also provides
opportunities to develop social skills as well as
developing language and communication, reading
and writing, maths, knowledge and understanding
of the world; and physical and creative
development.
‘Forest School’ is an opportunity for reception
children to develop the key areas outside the
classroom. Children spend time in the forest
working together,
communicating, taking
risks, exploring and
investigating through
varied activities in these
beautiful surroundings.
The National Curriculum- Key
Stages
We follow the National Curriculum (2014). Years
1 and 2 follow Key Stage 1 (KS1), and Years 3 to
6 follow Key Stage 2 (KS2). This comprises of
core and foundation subjects.
Core Subjects: Literacy - English
Numeracy - Maths
Science
Foundation Subjects: Art & Design
Computing
Design and Technology
Languages (French/KS2)
Geography
History
Music
Physical Education
All schools are also required to teach religious
education at all key stages.
Although there are specific lessons in English,
Maths, PE and Music, most of the individual
subjects are taught through topics, which are
planned on a half-termly basis. This allows the
learning to be exciting and meaningful for the
children.
Examples of such topics are:
Forests
Out of this world
Go Wild
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Core subjects
English
English is a vital and integral part of the whole
curriculum. We aim to promote high standards of
literacy by equipping pupils with a strong command
of the written and spoken word, and to develop
their love of literature through widespread
reading for enjoyment.
Literacy
Speaking & Listening
Speaking & listening are fundamental to
children’s learning. They are encouraged to
speak clearly and confidently in order to
communicate ideas and feelings. As important is
the need to listen to others carefully and to
respond appropriately. All children are provided
with opportunities throughout the curriculum to
develop speaking and listening skills.
Reading
One of the greatest gifts we can give children is
the ability to read. Reading should be an
enjoyable activity and we aim to develop a love of
books and reading.
Reading is taught
carefully and
systematically in
order to develop the
necessary skills that
children need to read with fluency,
understanding and enjoyment. We teach reading
skills using a phonic system which has proved to
be very effective. We use a variety of books
for the teaching of reading – reading scheme
books, such as Oxford Reading Tree, together
with an exciting range of real books which are
sorted into coloured baskets according to the
level of difficulty. By the end of KS1 many of
our children are independent readers who
choose their books, with guidance, from the
vast selection in School.
Children are introduced to a wide variety of
reading genres. The reading of non-fiction books
is encouraged and our library provides an
extensive range of suitable reading material. Our
stock of reading material is constantly being
updated. Our children also enjoy poetry, listening
to story tapes as well as reading and acting out
plays.
At School, children have time to read on their
own and with others; older children are
partnered with younger ones for Paired Reading
when the older children listen to their partners
and share books with them. Sets of reading
books and plays allow children to enjoy reading
aloud together in groups. Regular guided reading
lessons in small groups ensure that the children
are taught specific reading skills: Vocabulary,
Inference, Prediction, Explain, Retrieval and
Summary (VIPERS). They are also given
opportunities to explore texts in depth, to help
develop their comprehension.
The children bring a book home to read each
day, together with a home/school reading diary,
in which teachers, parents and children can
comment upon the reading experience.
Writing
Children are helped to develop the ability to
express their thoughts and ideas through
writing. It is important for children to see their
writing as having a purpose and opportunities are
provided for them to develop writing skills
required for a variety of situations.
They are taught to write in a variety of styles,
including narrative, play scripts, reports, letters,
instructions, explanations and poetry. Drama
activities are also included to help with the
exploration of ideas. In KS2 we encourage
children to write their own plays which they
enjoy performing to other classes.
We place importance on correct letter
formation, punctuation, spelling and grammar
alongside composition skills i.e. articulating ideas
and structuring them in speech and writing.
We have had a School focus on writing and the
pupils are making excellent use of the Big Write
opportunities. This is dedicated uninterrupted
time to write extended pieces of writing. We
also use the VCOP approach where we focus on
Vocabulary, Connectives, Openers and
Punctuation. We ensure that the pupils are aware
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of how they can use these to improve their
writing.
Mathematics
Mathematics is essential to everyday life and we
believe that a high quality mathematics education
will provide a solid foundation for understanding
the world. The main aims of the new National
Curriculum are to ensure that all pupils: become
fluent in the fundamentals of mathematics;
reason mathematically using mathematical
language and can solve problems by applying their
mathematics.
Children are taught a daily Maths lessons in
groups. We use various methods to assist maths
teaching and we include a wide variety of
practical, paper and computing activities which
the children enjoy.
Mathematical investigations and assignments are
an integral part of our approach to mathematics.
Number work is regarded as very important and
this forms the core of our work, together with
practical and recorded tasks on measurement,
shape and graphical representation.
We have a large resource of
mathematical equipment and number
games which are enjoyable and
provide learning through structured play.
Children also look forward to our termly
Marvellous Mathematical Mondays where they see
how maths is an integral part of everyday life e.g.
maths through architecture, maths through art,
maths through science etc.
Science
Science provides children with opportunities to
explore and investigate their environment and
the world around them in an exciting and
practical way. We believe that in Science
children learn best through first-hand practical
experiences so they are taught to observe,
question, solve problems and draw conclusions.
They are encouraged to work scientifically
developing their practical skills as well as
subject knowledge and secure understanding of
the concepts taught.
In KS1 we are well-resourced to develop the key
areas of learning: plants; animals including
humans; materials; seasonal changes; all living
things and their habitats and uses of everyday
materials. In KS2 the key areas of learning
increase to all the above plus: rocks; forces and
magnets; states of matter; electricity; light and
sound properties and changes of materials;
earth and space; evolution and inheritance.
A detailed two year rolling programme of topics
ensures that each child covers the whole of the
Science curriculum.
In the Spring Term we have a Science Day for
the whole School. Children are involved in
investigations, practical experiments and
workshops.
Computing
Our children are
growing up in an
increasingly
technological world and
so it is essential that
they become familiar
and confident with using computers, tablets and
other digital equipment including cameras,
programmable toys and microphones.
The School is well resourced to deliver the
computing curriculum with a computer suite,
allowing whole classes to access individual
networked workstations. We also have several
laptop and iPad trolleys that can be used in class
to support learning. Interactive whiteboards
are used in all classes to support teaching and
allow children to actively participate in learning
experiences.
All classes are linked to the Internet with high
speed Broadband connection and parents will be
reassured that children cannot access any
unsuitable material through in-school filter
settings. Digital cameras are used throughout
the School. For a copy of our E-Safety policy
please see our school website.
Religious Education
The School follows the Essex Agreed Syllabus
for RE. This covers implicit material such as
relationships, community, morality and ethics
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and explicit topics through which the children
study particular religions - Christianity,
Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, Sikhism and
Hinduism.
Special Assemblies are held at various times
such as Harvest, Christmas and other festivals.
The school has also created links with several
faith groups and regularly invites speakers into
school to lead assemblies.
Parents who wish their children to be withdrawn
from RE and collective worship should consult
with the Headteacher and alternative
arrangements can be made.
Foundation Subjects
History
Through our History teaching we hope to
provide children with a coherent understanding
of Britain’s past and that of the wider world,
stimulating children’s curiosity to learn more
about life in the past including how people used
to live. We study topics such as The Great Fire
of London, Ancient Civilisations, The Tudors and
Famous People in British History and The
Tudors.
We aim to bring the past alive through
interactive workshops, by using artefacts, by
organising visits to historical venues and
sometimes even staging re-enactments.
History allows children to compare and contrast,
to examine how and why things have changed, to
learn about historical characters and to develop
their research skills.
Geography
Geography develops children’s curiosity and
fascination about the world and its people. Our
geography teaching will endeavour to equip our
pupils with knowledge about diverse places,
people, resources and natural and human
environments, together with a deep
understanding of the Earth’s key physical and
human processes.
Children investigate the local area and find out
about countries far away. We use children’s own
experiences of visiting places to enrich their
understanding of geography. In KS2 Geography,
pupils study the local area, the United Kingdom,
Europe and North and South America.
The geography topics we study enable children
to develop their:
- Location knowledge
- Place knowledge
- Human and physical geography
- Geographic skills and fieldwork
They learn how people can affect and change
the environment and are encouraged to develop
a sense of responsibility towards its care. To
this end, our school has an Eco Team who meet
regularly and work alongside teachers to foster
ways of making our school more eco-friendly.
Recycling has been a major focus recently and
children are becoming more aware of the need
to conserve resources.
Our School has an Eco Team who meet regularly
and work alongside teachers to foster ways of
making our school more eco-friendly. Recycling
has been a major focus recently and children
are becoming more aware of the need to
conserve resources.
Design & Technology
We provide opportunities for children to work
with a variety of materials, such as wood, clay,
textiles and food. They learn skills which will
help them to design and make interesting
objects, such as puppets or a wheeled vehicle.
They are given practical tasks to enable them to
develop particular skills. They also investigate
and evaluate simple products.
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Food technology provides opportunities to learn
about nutrition, hygiene and healthy eating. We
have also created very good links with our local
secondary schools that provide technology
sessions for KS2 pupils. Some of the products
made during these visits include: a plastic key
ring, an electronic buggy, flapjacks and veggie
fajitas.
Art & Design
Art is a natural form of expression for children
and gives them great pleasure. We encourage
them to develop their creativity and imagination
through learning design and artistic skills.
In KS1 Art and craft work arises naturally from
topic, seasonal and environmental work.
Children learn to look at things for detail and to
develop an awareness of colour, pattern and
shape. They enjoy using materials of all kinds,
including paints, inks, dyes, fabrics, wood and
clay. The children also look at the works of
famous artists.
In KS2 children develop further skills,
understanding and appreciation through
observation, reflection, discussion and practical
activities. Pupils work with a variety of media
and materials to produce
drawings, paintings, prints
and collage. They also
have the opportunity to
work in three dimensions
and to use computing to
develop creativity.
Within their studies they first learn about the
work of well-known artists and designers.
All KS2 children use a sketchbook to explore
ideas and develop their skills.
Music
A wide range of musical experiences and
activities are offered. The children play a
variety of musical instruments, listen to music
of all kinds, take part in singing and create
music using instruments. Children are also
encouraged to become aware of our diverse
musical heritage and musical traditions. Music,
movement and drama are frequently linked to
form enjoyable assemblies or concerts.
During class lessons pupils are given the
opportunity to undertake singing, performing and
composing activities. Children have experience of
instruments such as African drums and Gamelan,
through visits to venues outside School and from
specialist practitioners visiting the School. Each
year we take part in the Epping Forest Primary
Schools’ Music Festival and Young Voices which is
held at the O2.
From Year 3, pupils are encouraged to join the
School choir and to take instrumental lessons.
Our School choir performs to a high standard
and each year is invited to perform at venues
and events outside of School.
Instrumental Tuition We have visiting teachers who provide
instrumental tuition during school hours.
Lessons are currently available in violin, guitar,
clarinet, flute, recorder, brass and piano.
Tuition is individual or in small groups and there
is an appropriate charge each term. Please
refer to our school website for more
information.
Modern Foreign Languages - French All pupils are taught French in KS2. Pupils learn
conversational aspects of the language through
the use of songs, games and computing. Their
lessons also include some aspects of the culture
of France.
Healthy Schools The School has been awarded the Enhanced
Healthy Schools Award.
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The next four items relate to the National
Healthy Schools’ Campaign and are a vital part of
our School life.
1 Physical Activity
Physical activities contribute to the physical,
social and emotional well-being of children and
adults in school. Therefore these activities are
at the heart of our School.
At playtimes we ensure that children have access
to many physical activities such as running,
climbing, football, skipping and many more.
Physical Education (PE) improves children’s
individual levels of fitness, whilst developing
their ability to work co-operatively in a group,
fostering team building skills and strategies. In
PE lessons children develop agility, coordination
and confidence.
Children have a minimum
of two hours of PE a
week e.g gymnastics,
dance, athletics and
games.
Sport features strongly in the School despite us
not having a playing field. In KS1 and KS2
children are taken to Loughton Cricket Club’s
ground during the summer term. All KS2 classes
have a block of weekly swimming lessons at
Loughton Pool.
We are part of the National Schools’ Sports
Partnership and receive regular visits from
sports teachers who take the children for
lessons in cricket, football, tennis and general
activities. We also celebrate children’s
participation in physical activities outside school
hours.
2 Personal, Social & Health Education This area of the curriculum helps pupils to
develop as confident, healthy and sociable
children, who will eventually become informed,
active and responsible citizens.
PSHE threads its way through the whole
curriculum, in particular in science, food
technology, PE, RE and assemblies.
Confidence; responsibility; respect; staying safe
and keeping healthy are some of the core
themes and values that shape our work.
Children are also given specific activities in
which they can consider their personal
development. These include circle time, showing
time and collaborative work in the School.
Through activities such as drama, discussion and
debate, children are taught the skills that help
them to make positive choices about their lives.
3 Emotional, Health & Well-being
We aim to support and nurture the social and
emotional development of children, in order that
they can be successful in all areas of their lives.
4 Healthy Eating
We aim to provide children with consistent
messages about healthy eating and healthy
lifestyles. Eating habits are formed in childhood
and we are committed to providing healthy lunch
time meals and snacks. We also use curricular
opportunities to help children to make
appropriate food choices and to develop positive
attitudes towards diet and health.
Sex and Relationships
Personal Social Health Education is all about
relationships and this is discussed throughout
the year. Teaching includes good health ie.
healthy eating, cleanliness, exercise and
personal safety.
The main issues of sex education are covered
during a topic on human biology in year 6. The
materials used have been seen and approved by
the Governors. Parents are informed of the
details of the scheme.
Parents have the right to withdraw their
children from some parts of the programme if
they wish but they should talk to the
Headteacher first.
Extra-Curricular Activities
After school clubs including Cookery, Football,
Irish Dancing, Karate, Multi-skills and Yoga are
run by external providers. We also have
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additional coaching in cricket, tennis and
athletics at regular intervals. Staples Road
children participate in all the interschool sports
and are the proud owners of many trophies.
Residential Visits
Children in Year 5 take part in a 2 night
residential to Gilwell Park Activity Centre as part
of their curriculum. In Year 6, children visit the
Isle of Wight for 5 days, which forms the basis
of a considerable amount of study.
General Information
Accommodation
The two Victorian School buildings are joined
together by a covered bridge and have a large
hall, kitchen and facilities for disabled access.
An extension has recently been added to the
west end of the building. This houses our upper
key stage two classes.
The School comprises two levels, with eight
classrooms in one building, ten in the second and
three in the third building. There are two small
halls, one main hall, a computing suite and a well-
stocked library.
The outside space incorporates space for team
games and exciting play equipment and with
Epping Forest on our doorstep this provides our
children with the opportunity to explore the
outdoors.
The Reception Classes have their own fenced
play areas which are suited to the needs of our
youngest learners.
An all-weather play surface for ball sports and
climbing apparatus afford the children an
enriching and active experience.
Organisation We admit 90 children in each year group
(Reception to Year 4) however from Y5 we have
75 pupils per year.
Children spend seven years in a Primary School
and each group is classified as follows:
Age Year
4-5 years old Reception
5-6 years old Year 1
6-7 years old Year 2
7-8 years old Year 3
8-9 years old Year 4
9-10 years old Year 5
10-11 years old Year 6
Our twenty classes are organised as:
Three reception classes
Three Year 1 classes
Three Year 2 classes
Three Year 3 classes
Three Year 4 classes
Two Year 5 classes
One mixed Year 5 and Year 6 class
Two Year 6 classes
Each class has one class teacher and a band of
Learning Support Assistants who work
effectively across each year group.
The teaching methods employed vary according
to the activity being undertaken. Whole class
teaching, group work and individual teaching will
all be used throughout the week together with
practical and first-hand activities.
School hours The School Day 8.50am – 3.15pm
Children should arrive at school by 8.45 am, no
later please. Classes line up in the playground in
their allotted space.
The bell will be rung in the playground at 8.50am
and the parents should then leave so that the
playground gates can be locked. A Teacher or
Learning Support Assistant will be there with the
children.
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The children are collected by their teachers and
they walk into School in a quiet and orderly
manner. The gates to the playground are closed
at 9.00am. If you arrive after this time please
bring your child to the main entrance, where you
will be asked to sign your child’s name in the late
book.
The first few days at school are very important
and set the trend for the continuing weeks. It is
important that good habits are developed
straight away!
End of the School Day The gate will be opened at 3.10pm to allow access
to the playground. Each class will then be
brought out by their respective teachers.
Children will be released to their parents only,
unless a letter is provided by the parent outlining
who will be collecting their child on a regular
basis e.g. child minder, grandparent. If it is a
one-off arrangement it is sufficient to write this
in the reading diary or tell the teacher. We
encourage children to collect their own clothing
items, book bags and lunch boxes.
It is essential to be prompt when collecting your
child and to acknowledge your presence with the
class teacher, in the interests of safety. When
collecting children please line up along the fence
outside your child’s classroom.
If you arrive early, please make sure that non-
school children do not play near the classrooms
before the end of the day as this causes great
distraction to the children and staff who are still
trying to work.
Attendance For children to reach their full educational
achievement a high level of school attendance is
essential. Any absence affects the pattern of a
child’s learning. Any pupil’s absence disrupts
teaching routines so may affect the learning of
others in the same class. Ensuring a child’s
regular attendance at school is the legal
responsibility of its parent/guardian.
We encourage good attendance and receive a
visit each term from the Education Welfare
Officer, who supports the Headteacher in
monitoring levels of absence.
The School must collect and report details of
absences by law and so all absence levels are
monitored closely. Attendance is a performance
indicator which is measured during Ofsted
inspections
Our rate of Absence in 2017/18 was:
Authorised Absence: 3.3%
National average: 3.9%
Absences If your child is absent due to illness or a medical
appointment please inform the School on the
morning of the absence and send in a letter when
they return to School. For any contagious illness
please inform the School as soon as possible.
In accordance with Government regulations, it is
important that all children attend school for the
complete academic year. To comply with these
regulations, ALL absences must be clarified in
writing.
The school office will contact you on the first
day of a child’s absence if no message is received.
Holidays are to be taken during the given school
holiday dates. Only on exceptional occasions
when days are required please contact the School
Office.
School Uniform The children are expected to wear school
uniform and our School colours are Royal Blue,
Grey and White.
Boys: Mid-grey trousers/shorts
Polo shirts or white shirt, royal blue
jumper with School logo
Girls: Mid-grey skirts/pinafores or light-blue
check dress in the summer
White blouses, polo shirts, royal blue
cardigan or jumper with School logo
Grey or black socks or tights with white
ankle socks in the summer
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Footwear: Sensible black shoes or all black
trainers without logos. Girls are not
permitted to wear boots. Sandals with
backs may be worn in the summer.
The children play outside in all weather
conditions so please make sure your child has a
suitable coat in school at all times. Long hair
should be tied up.
School uniform is available from Forest Casual &
Schoolwear, High Road, Loughton.
P.E. Clothing Your child will need separate clothing for P.E. in
a named drawstring bag:
White T Shirt or vest
Black/navy shorts
Elasticated plimsolls or trainers
This should be brought into School on the first
day of each term and will be sent home for you
to wash at regular periods.
Money All monies coming into the School for the
payment of trips etc. need to be placed in a
sealed envelope clearly marked with your child’s
name, class, amount and what the money is for.
It should be sent to the child’s class. Payments
can also be made using our on-line payments
system. Bookbags and water bottles can be
purchased from the School Office.
School Dinners As you are aware children in Reception and Key
Stage 1 are entitled to receive free school meals.
However, if you are in receipt of certain benefits
the school qualifies for additional funding. For
further information please contact the School
office.
Dinner Arrangements All children are invited to enjoy our healthy
school dinners and our kitchen team follow the
National Healthy School Meals Guidelines, using
a three-week menu which is changed each term.
Fresh fruit, salad and bread are offered every
day as an accompaniment. Special dietary
requests can be catered for if prior notice is
given at the start of each half term.
Children eat their lunch in the main hall. New
children can try both school dinners and packed
lunches for the first term and the menus are
issued in advance so you can see what is
available each day. This is a good way to see
what your child likes.
As an alternative children may bring a packed
lunch. A booklet with suggestions for healthy
packed lunches has been produced by parents
and is available in the School Office. Please do
not send in anything containing nuts as we have
children with nut allergies in school.
After the first half term school meals are
ordered half-termly in advance and, if particular
days are ordered, these must be adhered to for
the half term.
All dinner arrangements must be confirmed by
9.15am each day. If your child is absent/late or
at a medical appointment, the dinner will be
cancelled automatically, unless prior notice is
given. Similarly, if there has been a change of
plan or a late return, the School needs to be
notified promptly.
Snack Time We take part in the
National Fruit and
Vegetable Scheme which
encourages all FS and KS1
children to eat five pieces of fruit ‘n veg a day.
We offer a different item each day e.g. banana,
apple, carrot which the children eat mid-morning.
All children are welcome to bring an additional
item of fruit or raw vegetable, if they wish. We
encourage KS2 children to bring in a healthy
snack from home. Our School Prefects also run a
Healthy Snack shop at break time.
Lost Property Please name all items of clothing. We gather
many items of lost property each term. The lost
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property boxes can be found in the main
reception area. The School cannot accept any
liability for property or valuables lost on the
premises.
Jewellery and Earrings The wearing of jewellery and earrings can be
extremely dangerous, especially during physical
activities and at playtime. Only stud earrings may
be worn to School. Watches may be worn but the
School cannot take responsibility for loss or
damage.
Toilet Management Children will be sharing toilet facilities and it is
essential that, in the interest of hygiene and
personal management, they are aware of the
procedures and are capable of using the
amenities independently and correctly. There are
trough urinals in the boys’ toilets and it will be
most helpful to your son if you reassure them
about their use as they may be unfamiliar with
these.
Medication If your child requires the administration of
medication of any kind, a consent form must be
completed by the parent/carer and given in to
the Office, together with the medication in its
original packaging, with the dosage regime clearly
printed on the outside, and with the child’s name.
Children’s inhalers are kept in the classroom
whilst their Epi-pens and any Piriton are kept in
the Office. They must be clearly named and be
accompanied by written instructions as to their
use. Parents are responsible for checking that
the medication is in date.
Head Lice Head lice can be a problem in all schools. If your
child has live lice, please do not send him/her
back to school until you have treated the
problem. Please inform the school of the issue so
we can send a letter out to inform parents of an
outbreak in the class. No pupils are identified.
Contacts for Accidents/Illness at
School It is important that the School is equipped with
the current home address, place of work and
telephone numbers. Please inform the School
immediately if there is a change in these details.
If your child becomes unwell or has an accident
at School, we shall try to contact the parents
first and, failing this, the next named contact.
Assemblies In line with National Policy our assemblies are
broadly Christian in nature although children are
made aware of other religious festivals and
celebrations. The aim is to make children aware
of the world around them, have respect for
themselves and others, be tolerant and live and
learn how to play their part within a community.
Parents have the right to withdraw their child
from the collective worship part of assembly.
Those who wish to do so must inform the
Headteacher in writing.
School Council The School Council is an elected group of
children who meet half termly to discuss issues
that are relevant to them such as ‘improving our
playground’.
Each class has two representatives: one School
Council representative and one Class Council
representative who leads class council meetings.
This is an important part of ensuring our
children have a voice in the School.
Photographer Pupil and family photographs are taken in the
Autumn term. Class and group photographs are
taken in the Summer Term and every four years
a whole School photograph is taken.
Homework (Brain Builders) Homework provides the opportunity for children
to reinforce at home the skills and knowledge they
are learning in the classroom, whilst developing
their independent learning skills. We very much
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appreciate your support in this matter. Each year
group will be given guidance by the class teacher.
The children bring home their
reading book each day in which you
will see teachers’ comments and
we welcome parents’ and
carers’ comments too.
The School has a Virtual Learning Platform
(FrogPlay). The pupils from Year 1 to Year 6
have an individual log in pass word. Once in the
platform they can access their homework from
their teacher. They can take part in forum
discussions and can access additional learning
resources.
Educational Visits and Visitors An essential part of children’s learning takes
place during educational visits and receiving
visitors to our School.
Each term children will either have a school visit
connected with their project or a special
visiting workshop/exhibition will visit the
School.
There are times when the cost for these cannot
be borne solely by the School and voluntary
contributions will be required to ensure that the
activity takes place.
In the Autumn term,
Year 6 children are
taken on a five day
school excursion to the
Isle of Wight. They
stay in a hotel and
undertake various activities and visits. Year 5
children have a two nights residential at Gilwell
Park Activity Centre.
Charging for school activities The School has elected to adopt the Local
Authority Policy on charging and remissions. In
summary the arrangements are that, with
certain exceptions, no charges can be made for
activities taken up during the school day.
However, in order to continue to provide a
variety of experience for children, parents may
be asked to make a voluntary contribution where
it is not possible to provide from the School
budget. Children whose parents decline or are
unable to make a voluntary contribution are
never excluded from the related activity.
The Local Authority operates a remissions
policy in respect of those charges that can be
made where entitlements exist. This means
that in cases such as low income or parents on
Income Support, charges may be reduced or
waived.
Assessment and Record Keeping Assessment is a continuous process that takes
place in all areas of school life and through this
we hope to build a complete picture of each
learner’s development.
Assessment can take many forms – discussion,
observation and testing. It allows us to track
the progress of individual pupils and to identify
areas of strength and weakness. Teachers use
these assessments to inform their planning to
ensure further progress.
Parents receive information about their
children’s progress at termly open evenings and
through written reports, which are sent out in
February and at the end of the summer term.
Foundation Stage This is an on-going assessment, which is collated
during foundation stage children’s year. Its aim
is to give an indication of each child’s
development in the Foundation Stage. These
results are reported to the Local Authority &
EFSPT.
Assessment in Key Stage 1 All pupils in Year 1 complete a phonics test.
All children in Year 2 are assessed by their
teachers in English, Maths & Science during the
first half of the summer term. Pupils will also
sit two reading papers, two maths papers and
two grammar, punctuations and spelling papers.
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These are used to inform the teacher
assessments.
Assessment at the end of Key
Stage 2 All children in Year 6 sit the National SATs
tests in Reading; Grammar, Spelling and
Punctuation and Maths in May. Writing
assessments are completed by the class
teachers.
The results from all key stage assessments are
reported to the Local Authority & EFSPT.
Pupil Support and Pastoral Care The School is a community in which behaviour is
based on mutual respect and consideration for
others. The children are well known to the
teaching, support and office staff, as well as
the mid-day assistants and, therefore, a high
level of care is provided. We are always willing
to talk and listen to children, and if any causes
for concern arise, we will contact the parents.
Inclusion and Special Educational
Needs All children are different and we celebrate
diversity within our school. We endeavour to be
an inclusive school where all children are
welcome, feel happy about coming to school and
can enjoy and achieve in their learning and
development at school. We support all children
with additional needs or considerations.
Outlined in our ‘Special Educational Needs (SEN)
Report and Policy’, which is reviewed annually and
available on the website, is further guidance
about our special education needs aims and
provisions. If a child has a special educational
need and or disability, s/he is given every
opportunity to engage fully in the life of the
school and we will make reasonable adjustments
to ensure there is no substantial disadvantage.
More Able and Gifted Learners All children have many abilities and talents and
we strive to develop these during children’s stay
in the Primary School. However, some children
show particular abilities and gifts in areas of
learning. We recognise that these children may
require extensions and enrichment activities in
order to reach mastery in the subjects studied.
Inclusion – Accessibility The School has carried out an accessibility audit
and is confident that we can meet the needs of
most pupils.
Child Protection Staples Road Primary School takes seriously its
responsibility to protect and safeguard the
welfare of children and young people in its care.
A copy of our Child Protection Policy can be
found on our School website in Safeguarding.
Behaviour and Discipline Our Behaviour Policy reflects our overall
positive approach towards all aspects of
children’s learning, behaviour and development.
Throughout the whole School we aim to build on
positive, caring attitudes leading to good
behaviour, so that children learn what is
acceptable or not.
From time to time some children may exhibit
unacceptable behaviour, such as aggression,
rudeness and other anti-social behaviour
patterns. We operate a system of red and
yellow cards for dealing with misbehaviour. If
such behaviour persists, parents will be
contacted to discuss the problem as to how to
correct the pattern of behaviour.
We take measures to prevent bullying and to
deal with any other issues firmly and promptly.
For a copy of our Equal Opportunities Policy
including Anti-bullying, racial equality etc. please
contact the School Office.
Reward System We operate a reward system to
encourage positive attitudes
and achievements in all aspects
of school life. Your child will
receive Dojo points and
certificates for good work and
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behaviour. The Dojo system will email parents
and inform them of any allocation.
Health and Safety We consider the safety of our pupils of
paramount importance and ensure the School
does everything possible to keep everybody
safe.
Parents are asked to complete a Medical Form
for their child when they first start school if
they have a particular medical problem/allergy.
Please note that, in line with national policy,
Staples Road Primary School is a non-smoking
area, and dogs are not allowed on School
premises at any time including during School
events or functions.
Travel to school We encourage all children to walk to School.
We have cycle/scooter racks in the School
playground so that children may cycle/scooter
to school.
Cars cause considerable congestion in Staples
Road which is a quiet residential street; so in
the interests of good relationships with our
neighbours and with the safety of our children
in mind - we request that you do not bring your
car into Staples Road.
Security of our School Site The School operates a closed circuit television
monitored access control system. All visitors
are required to sign in and out, using the
Visitors’ Book and wear a Visitor’s Badge.
Parents who need to visit the School Office are
asked to enter School via the main entrance.
The doors from the playground are for
children’s access to the building.
All staff who work in the School and all
voluntary helpers (including parent helpers) will
undergo a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service)
check. For further information please see our
Visitors’ Policy.
School Parent Partnership Parents in Partnership
We welcome parents and carers and believe
that we are partners in the education of their
children. If children feel happy and secure they
will make the most of their abilities and be able
to reach their maximum potential.
If anything is troubling a pupil or parent please
phone or visit the School as soon as possible. It
is better for your child if a concern is shared,
however minor, before it becomes a problem. All
teachers are in the playground at the end of the
school day. Alternatively an appointment to see
a teacher may be made through the School
Office.
When children first join us we ask all parents to
sign a copy of our Home School Agreement and
a Computing Agreement (available on the
website or from the Office) outlining what
parents and School expect of each other.
There are many opportunities for parents to
become involved in the work of the School and
to gain a greater understanding of its work.
Parents’ time and expertise can be used in many
ways in school and is greatly valued. A number
of parents help with reading and practical
activities such as needlework and we have many
parent helpers for our trips. If you wish to be a
regular volunteer you will be required to have a
DBS check and you must follow the volunteer
guidance.
Consultation Evenings Parents and carers are always welcome to visit
the School either informally or at consultation
evenings.
In the Autumn term we hold two evenings for
parents to find out how their children have
settled in and look at their child’s work. In the
Spring term two evenings are held to review
children’s progress and work.
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The whole school is open for visitors on one
evening during the Summer term. As well as
children’s work being on display around the
school. There is an additional session towards
the end of the Summer term, where parents can
meet their child’s new teacher. At several
parents’ evenings, Governors are available to
talk to parents.
Communication with parents and
carers The School communicates with parents and
carers in various ways e.g newsletters,
calendars, questionnaires, book bag notes and
informal events.
We encourage all parents to provide an email
address which allows them to receive
communications via email and reduces the need
for paper copies.
Information is also placed on our website and
paper copies are available from the School
Office on request.
Staples Road Schools Parents’
Association (SRSPA) We really value the work of the Parents’
Association. All parents are automatically
members when their children join the School.
The Association works extremely hard,
organising fundraising and social events and the
School benefits from the additional funds, as
well as developing good relationships with
parents.
Annual events include The Summer Fun Day,
Quiz Nights and Children’s Discos – to name a
few! SRSPA needs the support of parents and
carers to ensure it is able to continue to enrich
the lives of our children. You can play your part
in three ways:
Become a committee member
Support and attend SRSPA events
Volunteer to help at an event, as a one-off
or on a regular basis.
If you are interested in
attending a meeting, please
leave your details at the
School Office, or contact
the chair of the PA at
Complaints Procedure From time to time, parents may have a concern
about their child’s education. Usually such
concerns can be discussed and resolved quite
easily by making arrangements to see the
classteacher or Headteacher.
If this has not addressed the concern then
there is a formal complaints procedure that will
be followed.
The Governing Body The Governing Body works in close partnership
with the Headteacher and the staff at the
School to make sure the School provides a good
quality of education for all our pupils, it does
this by:-
Setting strategic direction, aims and
objectives for the School
Adopting policies and setting targets to
achieve those aims and objectives
Approving the School budget
Reviewing progress against the budget,
plans and targets
Acting as a critical friend to the
Headteacher by providing support and
challenge
The Governing Body is made up of a balance of
governors; parents, staff, local authority and
community representatives. Governors are all
volunteers and attend regular meetings each
term. If you would like to find out more about
being a Governor or the role of the Governing
Body please contact the Chair of Governors at
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A message from the Chair of Governors
Dear Parents and Carers,
On behalf of the Governing Body, welcome to Staples Road Primary School. The
Governing Body is proud of the School’s continuous academic achievements and the
social wellbeing of all the children and staff.
Our Governing Body includes people from a variety of backgrounds and professions and
many have close links to the School. As Governors, we hope to make a positive
contribution to the local community and the children’s experience in School. We
support the Headteacher and the School’s staff in setting the strategic direction of
the School and are responsible for monitoring overall performance and ensuring our
children have a rewarding education.
We encourage all parents and carers to take part in School life whether helping with
homework, classroom support or enjoying the School’s events. We have a vibrant and
very supportive Parents Association and becoming a member or supporting one of the
many events is an excellent way to meet parents, make new friends and feel part of
the School community.
If you have any queries, concerns or suggestions regarding the role of the Governing
Body, School issues or you are interested in being a Governor, please do not hesitate to
contact the Governing Body through the School Office or by e-mail at
Wishing you and your child all the best for the coming School year.
Yours sincerely
David Prosser
Chair of Governing Body